resolution

Resourcing Black Churches in Urban Communities

2016 Book of Resolutions, #3063

Whereas, the struggle for social, economic, and political survival of Black people in the United States is manifested in their historical migration to urban centers; and

Whereas, the problems that have evolved through the decades now face this population of people, isolated from access to the material resources needed to unleash its power and creativity in a manner that will build rather than destroy communities; and

Whereas, United Methodist Black churches in urban communities have historically been centers of spiritual nurture and social and political action that have cared for the youth and offered viable alternatives to the negative aspects of decaying urban centers; and

Whereas, there is a demonstrated need in all urban communities in this country for strong, vital Black congregations to reach into the hurts and pains of the community and provide the spiritual revival that is needed in order to reclaim individuals and communities and manifest the healing power of God to combat drugs, violence, and a growing sense of hopelessness; and

Whereas, the gospel mandates that we “promote the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because your future depends on its welfare” (Jeremiah 29:7); and

Whereas, United Methodist Black congregations in urban communities are called, as are all churches, to minister to the needs of persons in the communities where the church is located; and

Whereas, while the conditions in urban communities for the Black diaspora continue to worsen, including anti-Black violence, and the need for grounding in a faith and reliance on the power of God for the strength and vision to reclaim and rebuild strong, proud, faith-centered communities grows daily, the resources and persons in Black urban congregations decrease;

Therefore, be it resolved, that the General Conference direct the General Board of Discipleship to develop resources, programs, and strategies that will enable the development of Black leadership, such as the Convocation for the Pastors of Black Churches, and specific programs and strategies that will foster financial self-sufficiency, such as launching a stewardship education program.

Be it further resolved, that the training events designed and implemented by the General Board of Discipleship and General Board of Global Ministries (School of Congregational Development, Path1 trainings, Convocation for the Pastors of Black Churches, and others) include training components that address the needs of Black churches and communities.

Be it further resolved, that the General Board of Global Ministries work with emerging and existing Black churches in urban communities to develop and maintain vital congregations providing practical ministries and missions that address the spiritual, social, and economic decline in these communities.

Be it further resolved, that the General Board of Global Minis- tries and the General Board of Discipleship coordinate their work in relation to strengthening urban Black congregations with the annual conferences and urban ministry units of annual conferences, and the Strengthening the Black Church for the Twenty- First Century initiative.

ADOPTED 1992 AMENDED AND READOPTED 2004
READOPTED 2008 AMENDED AND READOPTED 2016
RESOLUTION #3063, 2012 BOOK OF RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION #3064, 2008 BOOK OF RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION #59, 2004 BOOK OF RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION #53, 2000 BOOK OF RESOLUTIONS

See Social Principles, ¶ 162A.

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