May 1 and 2 brought a windfall of legislative victories for multiple marginalized groups in The United Methodist Church. Among them was a petition entitled “Granting Sacramental Authority to Deacons in Their Ministry Setting” which was adopted by the body of the Conference. Two deacons share their story.

A summary of Judicial Council Elections. The new Judicial Council will take office at the end of the General Conference.

General Conference attendees gathered for a Service of Lament, Confession, and Hope. This service was conducted in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and French. The liturgy acknowledged the harm done through sexual misconduct, including harassment and violence, in and outside The United Methodist Church.

After months of organizing remotely, the United Methodist Queer Delegate Caucus assembled for lunch at the Hilton Garden Inn in uptown Charlotte, NC. The gathering was largely a hopeful one, with delegates joyful to be together.