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IGRC Annual Conference will be June 5-7 in Peoria. The 2025 theme is Rivers of Grace: Hope That Doesn’t Disappoint (Romans 5:5). You may watch the conference by going to www.IGRC.org clicking the picture of the river, then choosing “Live Webstream” from the list on the right. Of most importance this year are the 4 amendments to The United Methodist Church’s constitution. The General Conference (worldwide) passed these 4 amendments last year, and now 120 Annual Conferences must ratify them by a 2/3 vote to change the constitution. You can read all about them on the IGRC website, but here they are in brief:  <!--split-->

  1. REGIONALIZATION – Instead of one worldwide conference, there will be 9 regions. Each region will set its own books of worship, set requirements for ordination, set standards for lay membership, develop practices around marriage ceremonies and funerals that align with culture and laws in their countries, reorganize their Annual Conferences, and assure that policies align with laws in their countries.
  2. INCLUSION IN MEMBERSHIP – Gender and ability will be added to the list of characteristics that do not bar people from membership in the UMC.
  3. FIGHTING RACISM AND COLONIALISM – Stronger language will be added.
  4. CLERGY DELEGATES – Stricter education requirements will be added.

Joyce and Tom Hein and Pastor Jan will be attending Annual Conference.