From the Pastor

Notes from the Pastor  

Let’s get one thing straight: The United Methodist Church is not splitting yet. Nothing is definite as of this writing.  

Let’s get another thing straight: At General Conference 2024, the United Methodist Church will vote as to whether or not to split. At least 2 camps are present as the dividing line revolves around the ordination of practicing LGBTQ+ individuals, but the divide runs much deeper, as some believe that the practice of the LGBTQ+ lifestyle is incompatible with Christian teaching while others believe that the lifestyle is acceptable. The Global Methodist Church is the leading new denomination for churches who ascribe to a “traditional” or conservative view towards LGBTQ+ practice, while others (often labeled progressive or in the middle “centrists”) might remain in the United Methodist Church.  

I believe that the practice of the LGBTQ+ lifestyle is not compatible with Christian teaching. I also believe that I am called by Jesus to love all people. I am not free to attack those I disagree. I choose to love the person while disagreeing with the practice of the LGBTQ+ lifestyle.  

There is a much bigger issue than this divide. So many people around us do not know Jesus. I choose to be more about sharing and loving Jesus.  

Gathering in his Name, Growing in His love, Going in His service,” remains Mercer United Methodist Church’s Mission Statement. Let’s be about Gathering in His Name together for worship and fellowship. Let’s be about Growing in His Love as we learn more about Jesus and how we can love each other in our Teams, Marvelous Monday, Youth Group, Club 456, Sunday School classes and Growth Groups. (Mark 12:28-31) Let us be about Going in His service as individuals as well as a church (like Community Lunches, the Memorial Day 500 Prayer Tent, presence at the Christmas Tree lighting, etc.).  

My personal Mission Statement is to make disciples of Jesus Christ. That’s my mission. There will always be issues that divide us (a Google search suggests that there are anywhere from 200 to 1500 denominations in the U.S. alone, a reminder that issues will divide us). Jesus remains the One who is the Gate to eternal life (John 10:7). He remains the Person who Christians are all about.  Because of Jesus  

Because of Jesus     

Pastor Brian Keller