Congregations of the Church are called by God to be covenant communities of love, reconciliation, justice and peace in the world. Vital congregations of faithful disciples witness to the risen Christ and follow Christ's commandments in the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. They are committed to the ministry of all Christians and to the mission of God in the world.
Congregations are to be intentionally engaged in the making and forming of faithful Christian disciples (Matt. 28.19). To follow Jesus as a disciple requires disciplined learning and practice, Learning to be a Christian disciple goes against the grain of human sin: personal, social and systemic. The forming of Christian disciples, therefore, requires servant leadership in the local congregation and the whole church.
In the United Methodist tradition the role of lay women and men in servant leadership has always been given high honor which continues today in the Office of Lay Ministry Steward. Lay men and women who are called to this office provide leadership within their congregations by helping form faithful Christian disciples who engage in the ministry of all Christians.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 21758-MN-201-D
1996 United Methodist General Conference