Friends in Christ,
Today the Council of Bishops met by Zoom in a called session. We heard from three of our Bishops who oversee the church in Europe and particularly parts of Eastern Europe. It was heartbreaking and we as Bishops of the church condemn aggression without provocation anywhere in the world and particularly in Ukraine.
I call on United Methodists to pray, particularly in your worship services this weekend for the people of Ukraine and for peace in the region. I also ask you to pray for the refugees who are fleeing Ukraine, and that we as United Methodists together support the Church and refugees in this region.
Today as Bishops of the Church, we were also informed that the Commission on General Conference will finalize and announce their decision within a week if there will be a General Conference Session in August 2022 or if it will be postponed for a third time. COVID has prevented the Church from gathering to make important decisions. Please continue to pray for the Commission and the Church.
I give thanks to God for each of you, laity, and clergy, who continue to be the body of Christ in your communities and around the world. In this season, God is doing important ministry and mission through your congregation.
Keep the faith!
John
Bishop John Schol
The United Methodists of
Greater New Jersey & Eastern Pennsylvania
Equipping transformational leaders for
New Disciples | Vital Congregations | Transformed World