Focusing on mission
In 2022, The United Methodist Church responded to global health needs as we grappled with the ongoing COVID pandemic and its effects on people and churches. This vital work included attention given to global vaccinations as well as strengthened ministries with Global Ministries and United Methodist Committee on Relief to support health and wholeness worldwide.
A positive outcome from the pandemic has been the growth in the use of technology in our local churches and worship experiences supported by United Methodist Communications. Our development of these technological skills in the worldwide church connected us more effectively in ministry together, removing barriers caused by our diverse geography. The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry and Discipleship Ministries have worked to make ordained ministry and discipleship even more accessible so that more people are easily able to answer the call God has placed on their life.
When people stood up for inclusion and equality, The United Methodist Church stood with them. The General Board of Church and Society, the Commission on Religion and Race, and the Commission on the Status and Role of Women have continued to help us imagine and work towards a more just and equitable world. As the people in Ukraine lived through another year of war, The United Methodist Church in Ukraine and around the world offered humanitarian aid to those in need. When natural disasters ravaged homes and communities, we were there to offer comfort, hope, and help. The United Methodist Church around the world has continued to preach the Good News in person and virtually to a world that needs the healing hope that comes through Jesus Christ.