LYNC Calls for Reconsideration of Bishop’s Event
In a letter to Bishop Tracy Malone and other Council of Bishops leaders, the Love Your Neighbor Coalition (LYNC) urges the Council of Bishops to reconsider the Leadership Gathering called for in 2026.
Concerns raised by the Coalition include:
Limited representation structured by episcopal area, without elected representative, and a limited ability to ensure diverse representation
Expense for a meeting that will not have any policy making authority in a time of shrinking finances for the UMC.
A weak alternative to a General Conference session that reinforces existing leadership rather than recognize and train emerging leaders.
Should the Council choose to move forward, the LYNC letter offers several suggestions to attempt to improve diversity and representation, including:
Participant selection guidelines that empower new voices.
Commitment to open meetings and space for in-person observers and speedy publication of streamed and printed material.
Advance information on purpose, agenda, and projected outcomes.
The Love Your Neighbor Coalition comprises fifteen official and unofficial caucus groups within The United Methodist Church.
Read, download, and share the full letter from LYNC.
Read the announcement from the Council of Bishops calling the Leadership Gathering.