Let’s continue our exploration of the ways in which the United Methodist Church communicates its message. Last week, I talked about The Book of Discipline. This week, it’s:
The Book of Resolutions
This collection of resolutions provides more contemporary teachings about current events. The statements are aspirational and intended to educate, but do not have restrictive power. For example, the United Methodist Church has resolutions related to the global AIDS pandemic, handguns, and the death penalty, but individual United Methodists may of course have different opinions and views.
Both The Book of Discipline and The Book of Resolutions can only be changed every four years when our global church gathers for General Conference. Representing an equal amount of laity and clergy, this democratic worldwide assembly discerns how we can best do church together and guides us on how to live out the teachings of Jesus.
Editors’ Note: HERE is a link to all 928 pages of The Book of Resolutions. (Sort of puts your New Year’s resolutions to shame, doesn’t it?) Toward the beginning of the book, you will find Our Social Creed, and you can read it HERE.
