We further recognize that increased mobility and technology have brought a mixture of people, religions, and philosophies to rural communities which were once homogeneous. While often this is seen as a threat to or loss of community life, we understand it as an opportunity to uphold the biblical call to community for all persons. Therefore, we encourage rural communities and individuals to maintain a strong connection to the earth and be open to offering mutual belonging, caring, healing, and growth; sharing and celebrating cooperative leadership and diverse gifts; supporting mutual trust; and affirming individuals as unique persons of worth, and thus to practice shalom.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 22319-CS-72-D
1996 United Methodist General Conference