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Your United Methodist church is a connectional church. This means that the local church is a part of  something much larger that magnifies our ministries on a national and global scale. Through this structure, United Methodists work together to advance common goals, respond to needs, and make a  broader impact for Christ in the world.  

Regionalization: What It Means for Our United Methodist Church Community

By now, you should have heard about the proposed change to a regionalized structure. This is an important change, and I want to explain it a little further. 

Understanding Regionalization in the United Methodist Church

At the 2024 General Conference, a constitutional amendment supporting regionalization was passed,  marking a historic moment for the denomination. For the amendment to take effect, it must still be approved by at least 67% of annual conference representatives—a process now underway across the  church. For local congregations like ours, this ongoing conversation presents both opportunities and  questions about the future of our church and its role in our community. 

What Is Regionalization? 

Regionalization refers to the process of organizing the church into distinct geographic orcultural regions, each with the authority to make decisions that best reflect the needs and values of their communities. In the UMC context, this could mean adapting church policies, ministries, and governance to  better serve local congregations while remaining connected to the larger denomination. 

Why Is Regionalization Being Considered? 

The conversation around regionalization has gained momentum due to the diverse perspectives and  practices within the global UMC. As church members in different regions face uniquechallenges and  opportunities, regionalization offers a way to respect these differences while maintaining unity. It seeks  to empower local leadership, encourage cultural sensitivity, and create space for innovation in ministry. 

What Regionalization Does Not Change 

  • Our Core Beliefs: Regionalization does not alter the basic doctrines and theology of the United Methodist Church. Our commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ, the authority of Scripture, and our shared confession of faith remains foundational.
  • Articles of Faith: The historic Articles of Religion and Confession of Faith, which outline our core Christian beliefs, will continue to guide our church. These articles are part of the church’s constitution and are not subject to change through the regionalization process.
  • Wesley’s General Rules: The three General Rules of John Wesley—do no harm, do good, and stay in  love with God—will continue to shape our life together as a church. These principles remain central  to our identity and mission.
  • Connectional Identity: Even as regions gain more flexibility in certain decisions, our church will remain part of the global United Methodist connection, united in mission and purpose. 

In summary, regionalization is about adapting church structure to better serve local communities, not changing the essential beliefs or spiritual commitments that define us as United Methodists. 

How Could Regionalization Affect Our Local Church? 

For our local UMC congregation, regionalization could bring several changes: 

  • Greater Local Autonomy: Decisions about worship styles, outreach, and community engagement could be made closer to home, reflecting the needs and values of our members.
  • Responsive Ministry: With more decision-making power at the regional level, our church could more quickly adapt to the changing needs of our neighborhood and wider community.
  • Stronger Connections: Regionalization could help us build deeper relationships with other UMC churches in our area, fostering collaboration and shared mission projects.
  • The General Conference will be freed from dealing with issues that affect certain regions only, such as U.S. Pastor pension discussions.

What Are the Challenges? 

While regionalization offers many benefits, it also raises important questions. How will regional decisions affect the unity of the denomination? What processes will ensure accountability and shared values? As these questions are being discussed as the ratification process continues to work its way through the Annual Conferences. 

It is also important to note that the constitutional amendment passed at the 2024 General Conference is not yet final; it still requires ratification by at least 67% of the annual conference repre sentatives. The outcome of this process will determine the future direction of regionalization in the church. 

Looking Ahead 

Regionalization is more than just a structural change; it’s an opportunity for The United Methodist Church to better serve its members and communities. As we navigate these changes together, our commitment to faith, service, and unity will guide us forward. Let us continue to pray for wisdom and discernment as our church family explores what it means to be a regionalized—and truly connected—community of faith. 

From Pastor Heather 

How are we already looking for ways to better serve our members and surrounding community?  Through discernment, prayer, looking at the demographics of our local community on missioninsight,  listening and observing. 

Joining a Focus Group with consultant John Wimberley on Tues Nov 4th or Wed Nov 5th to dream and  vision with one another will help in this endeavor. The data and insight from those focus groups  throughout the four individual churches will help the local pastoral leaders in Amherst, NY and their  leadership teams/admin boards to be better informed about what we are dreaming up together.  Please sign up by emailing Lori Pacer.  

**These focus groups are specific to each of the 4 Amherst churches. Williamsville has the following  ZOOM mtgs scheduled: Tues Nov 4, 11am or 7pm Wed Nov 5, 1pm or 6pm