Justice Leaders Gather Across the United Methodist Connection

Throughout 2026, members of the General Board of Church and Society’s Advisory Team have led Jurisdictional Gatherings for Justice and Peace, creating opportunities for clergy and laity to learn together, build relationships across annual conferences, and discern faithful responses to the pressing issues of our time.

This spring and summer, leaders in the South Central and Northeastern Jurisdictions hosted the first two gatherings, each addressing distinct concerns while sharing a common commitment to justice rooted in faith.

This builds on a shared vision set last October, where members of the Advisory Team gathered on Capitol Hill to chart a path toward regional gatherings that would equip United Methodists to respond to the challenges facing their communities.

South Central Jurisdiction: Recommitting to Justice

In May, South Central Jurisdiction leaders Rev. Phil Dieke (Horizon Texas Conference) and Andrea Paret (Great Plains Conference) welcomed 50 clergy and lay leaders representing all 10 annual conferences in the jurisdiction for a weekend of worship, learning, and discernment centered on what it means to faithfully pursue justice in today’s political and social landscape.

Participants engaged in thoughtful conversations about challenges facing their communities, including immigration, climate justice, and the rise of Christian Nationalism. Through presentations, discussion, and small-group conversations, attendees explored how these issues intersect and how United Methodists can respond in ways that reflect God’s call to seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly.

The gathering emphasized that justice work begins with relationships. Participants shared stories from their own communities, learned from one another’s experiences, and considered how faithful advocacy grows through listening, collaboration, and sustained engagement. Together, they reflected on the unique role the Church can play in bearing witness to God’s justice while equipping local leaders to respond to the needs of their communities.

The weekend concluded with renewed energy and a deeper sense of connection among justice leaders across the South Central Jurisdiction, strengthening relationships that will continue to support collaborative ministry long after the gathering ended.

Northeastern Jurisdiction: The Sacred Power of the Vote

In July, Northeastern Jurisdiction leaders Rev. Ryan Gephart (Susquehanna Conference) and Martha Hill (West Virginia Conference) convened 32 justice leaders representing seven of the jurisdiction’s 10 annual conferences for a gathering focused on one of the foundational expressions of democratic participation: the right to vote.

Participants explored recent judicial decisions, legislative developments, and grassroots efforts affecting voting rights while considering the Church’s role in protecting the dignity and voice of every eligible voter.

Grounded in both Scripture and United Methodist Social Principles, the gathering affirmed that voting is more than a civic responsibility—it is a moral responsibility rooted in the sacred worth of every person. Through presentations and discussion, participants reflected on current challenges to voting access and considered faithful ways to advocate for elections that are accessible, fair, and representative of all people.

The gathering also created space for participants to reflect on how justice advocacy transforms both individuals and communities. Attendees shared how learning about voting rights has inspired them to engage more deeply in public life through voter education, community organizing, peaceful advocacy, and encouraging greater civic participation.

The gathering concluded with a call to continue protecting the right of every eligible voter to participate fully in our democracy. Participants left encouraged to return to their annual conferences equipped with new knowledge, stronger relationships, and renewed commitment to ensuring that every voice can be heard.

Building a Movement for Justice and Peace

Each jurisdictional gathering focused on issues most relevant to its region, both reflecting the broader vision established by the Advisory Team last October.

As additional jurisdictional gatherings for Justice and Peace take place across the connection, the General Board of Church and Society remains committed to equipping United Methodists with the resources, relationships, and theological foundation needed to transform faith into action. Together, these gatherings are strengthening a growing movement of disciples committed to seeking justice, building peace, and bearing faithful witness in communities across the United Methodist connection.