In our continuing efforts to reach out and spread the Good News to an ever wider audience, the Western Methodist Justice Movement is a member of the Love Your Neighbor Coalition (LYNC). LYNC is a partnership of 15 United Methodist Church-related Caucus groups working for a just, inclusive, and grace-filled denomination. Individually, these organizations minister to their diverse constituent groups and provide witness to their specific area of concern. Current member organizations serve diverse ethnic populations, address climate justice around the world, seek peace for countries torn asunder by war and discrimination, and represent clergy and laity caucus groups working for full inclusion in the life and body of the UMC. As a coalition, member organizations commit to love each other and stay in relationship with the global Body of Christ.

Together these organizations meet regularly to share information about the various ministries, to learn about concerns and challenges to the work, and to amplify individual messages to their collective audiences. At the General Conference, LYNC members will share resources to provide hospitality for delegates, staff, and volunteers who are on hand to witness these global gatherings. LYNC coordinates communication to keep all gathered informed about the proceedings and to further educate UMs about the work of the member organizations. LYNC has always had a global perspective and at GC in addition to providing hospitality to international attendees, sponsors translation services to facilitate communication to those gathered in Charlotte. LYNC also works to coordinate the numerous witness events and legislative priorities of our member organizations, including an Earth Day celebration!

In addition to supporting legislation put forth by the 15 member organizations, LYNC has committed to work for the passage of legislation related to “the 3 R’s”: Regionalization, Revised Social Principals, and Removal of discriminatory language from the Book of Discipline. These actions seek to move the UMC forward toward being a more just and inclusive church for all of God’s children. Watch for webinars and publications over the next few months that will address the importance of these 3 R’s.

For more information about LYNC, visit the LYNC website or follow thier Facebook page: Love Your Neighbor Coalition.