Judicial Council and Me

This book and I will be spending a lot of time together

Those who have been following me for awhile will remember back in early 2024 when Bishop Mande persuaded me to accept a nomination to serve on The United Methodist Church's Judicial Council.  Those who know UMC polity know what an massive honor and responsibility this would be, and why I would hesitate to even put my name on the ballot. But, Bishop Mande is a persuasive man, and he listed many valid reasons why my unique collection of knowledge and experiences of/in the denomination would be important to have on the council at such a time as this. Elections were held at the 2020/2024 General Conference, and I was elected as 2nd clergy alternate. 

Given that there are only four clergy on the council, I thought it extremely unlikely that two clergy seats would become vacant within my 4-year term. I liked to joke that I got to have the bragging rights without any of the workload—Or so I thought.  

Plot twist: This month I begin my period of service on the Judicial Council, which goes until the end of General Conference 2028. 

Already I'm getting an influx of messages from old friends/contacts wanting to chat about me and Judicial Council. I completely relate to the desire to get a glimpse behind the curtain, but unfortunately/fortunately, for ethical reasons, the council abides by a rather strict code of silence, so there isn't much I can say beyond that, yes, I'm on the council and for information about decisions, docket items, and the upcoming calendar, you can check out the website: www.resourceumc.org/en/churchwide/judicial-council   

Love to all. Prayers for wise discernment are always appreciated. 

Taylor