16 March 2018
Conference discusses the future for Methodist mission in the UK and overseas
The Methodist Conference has agreed to fully integrate theMethodist Missionary Society (MMS) into the Methodist Church inBritain, recognising that now is the time to re-envisage missionfor the future.
A report accepted by the Conference laid out the case forseizing the opportunity to bring strands of overseas and homemissions closer together. "We have a unique opportunity to assertthe understanding that the mission of the Church is one in whichwork at home and overseas is essentially the same mission," thereport stated. "Now is the time to move those thoughts into actionas we continue to grow as a worldwide family transformed by God'slove."
Since the early 1970s, the day to day work of the MethodistMissionary Society has been integrated into the work of theChurch's Connexional Team. The full integration of the society willenable the Church to equip and resource Methodists for mission inthe 21st century.
David Friswell, Leader of World Church Relationships, said:"Much work has been going on behind the scenes for some years nowto ensure that funds are protected and that good work is not lostas a result of integration of MMS. The recognition of God's missionbeing one mission for all people wherever they call home is key toour future mission together. Our partners from around the world,whether they live in their own country or the UK, have much toshare with us as we continue to offer the Good News, serve othersand care for God's creation."
Missionary societies within Methodism date back to 1813 when aframework to support workers in the overseas mission field wasfinally established by Thomas Coke. The jubilee was celebrated in1863 and the centenary in 1913. This year the Leeds District isorganising a commemoration of these events on Sunday 6 October. Aceremony on the site of the Old Chapel in Leeds will be followed bya service in nearby Leeds Minster attended by the President of theConference.
Ends.
Notes:
- Read the MMS Conference report in full
- See the Methodist Council