Radical Inclusion & Racial Justice

Wisconsin Conference Quadrennial Theme

Bishop’s Task Force Vision

We envision a United Methodist Church that is rooted in Jesus, grounded in Wesleyan theology and affirming of all persons, each one created in the image and precious in the eyes of God.

We envision a United Methodist Church that is engaged in the work of justice, reconciliation, and liberation.

We envision a United Methodist Church that affirms the full participation of all gender identities, sexual orientations, races, cultures, classes, abilities, ages, and nations,

and the sacred worth of every person, particularly those who have been discriminated against by the church’s collective Sins of racism, queerphobia, homophobia, transphobia, and misogyny.

The Bishop's Task Force developed a glossary that features terms used in the Wisconsin Annual Conference Action Item 25, Bishop’s Task Force Vision Statement, and educational materials. It was prepared to help all of the annual conference pursue the goal of advancing radical inclusion and racial justice. 

Glossary of Terms - Bishop's Task Force

Resources Recommended by the Bishop’s Task Force

The Bishop’s Task Force has identified a variety of resources that may be useful to you and your congregation as we work together toward our Conference goal of radical inclusion and racial justice.  We invite you to use these resources with an openness to hearing and understanding what is shared.

  • Building Beloved Community – This 9-session series is designed for small groups, but individuals may find it useful as well.  Each session contains a video reflection and a study guide on themes of inclusion.  In these videos you’ll likely be able to relate to parts of some reflections, and others might present a new perspective that's completely different from your own views and/or lived experience. Those featured in the videos talk about who they are, what inclusion looks like to them, and how God is calling them to lead. The series was developed by the Minnesota Annual Conference, who has given permission for us to share.

          Videos and Study Materials:  https://www.minnesotaumc.org/buildingbelovedcommunity

  • #BeUMC -- This campaign honors the core values that connect the people of The United Methodist Church.  The study materials are founded on Wesleyan theology of grace, anchored in Scripture, and based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and the continuing movement of the Holy Spirit.  They are designed to embrace our Wesleyan heritage and envision a promising future for the UMC.  Included with each theme are readings from Scripture and our United Methodist tradition plus discussion questions.
  • Discernment Stories – This video shows a dialogue between a retired pastor and a lay person as they share their lived experiences related to acceptance of LGBTQIA+ persons.  It was intended to be helpful to congregations undergoing a discernment process, but we think it can be a useful resource to all.  

           YouTube video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYOHLbX78lc