Orthodox Christians gather for WCA legislative assembly, global…

Wesleyan Covenant Association members across the globe gathered April 30 and May 1 for their third Global Legislative Assembly and fifth Global Gathering, held at Frazer Church in Montgomery, Alabama. There they affirmed the name for a proposed new denomination and approved other resolutions, plus celebrated all God’s people are doing to rekindle passion and hope for the future.

The WCA is a global connection of local churches, laity, clergy, and regional chapters that seeks to partner with like-minded orthodox Christians to build a new global Methodist church.

In the assembly’s morning session April 30, delegates approved 1) a resolution endorsing the Protocol for Reconciliation and Grace through Separation, a plan enabling an amicable separation from The United Methodist Church; 2) a resolution endorsing and celebrating the March 1 announcement of a new denomination in formation called the Global Methodist Church; and 3) a resolution condemning, as the WCA phrased it, “appointments that separated theologically conservative pastors from their theologically conservative congregations when neither party requested a change.”

The Global Methodist Church is the name selected for the denomination some plan to launch if they choose to leave the UMC.

“The announcement of the impending birth of the Global Methodist Church is a moment of great hope for Methodists around the world,” said the Rev. Keith Boyette, WCA president. “Committed to the historic Christian faith in the Wesleyan tradition, the Global Methodist Church will unashamedly proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ. Our unity will be in the person of Jesus Christ, not in an institution. We are single-minded in our mission.”

In the afternoon session they heard reports from several ministry task force groups and affirmed recommendations from four of the groups. The delegates recessed, and the WCA said plans are in motion to complete the assembly’s agenda via a virtual gathering.

The assembly ended with a devotion and a service of Holy Communion.

The next day, May 1, was filled with speakers and music led by Frazer Church’s worship team. The approximately 1,200 attendees in Montgomery were joined by WCA members and friends at 83 simulcast sites across the U.S., and by others in the U.S. and around the world who watched from their homes via a livestream link. The WCA said at least 3,000 people attended the Global Gathering.

Seven featured speakers challenged those who attended to fulfill Christ’s command to make disciples of the nations even when they find themselves in the midst of conflict. Focusing on the apostles Peter, Paul, and John, they called on people to be audacious, bold, and fearless as they share the good news. They also reminded them that they must bear witness to the gospel in a spirit of peace not anger.

The WCA said they will make the videos of the speakers available online. Learn more and review the resolutions at https://wesleyancovenant.org.