Christian Conferencing is a powerful practice within the United Methodist Church that fosters open, Spirit-led dialogue and mutual understanding. However, when white cultural norms shape its structure and expectations, it can unintentionally exclude diverse voices and perspectives. This chapter explores how Christian Conferencing can be redefined to address white normativity in a local congregation, creating a more inclusive, just, and transformative space. Drawing from theological insights and lived experiences, it examines how the Holy Spirit, compassionate listening, liberating interdependence, and storytelling can reshape Christian Conferencing to reflect the fullness of God’s kin-dom. By highlighting marginalized voices, challenging dominant assumptions, and embracing the power of narratives, the church can move beyond surface-level inclusion toward deeper communal transformation. Through this process, Christian Conferencing becomes more than a method of discussion. It becomes a sacred practice of justice, reconciliation, and renewal in the body of Christ.

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Addressing White Normativity at a Local UMC Congregation by Re(de)fining Christian Conferencing

  • Steve Young Dong Kim

摘要

Christian Conferencing is a powerful practice within the United Methodist Church that fosters open, Spirit-led dialogue and mutual understanding. However, when white cultural norms shape its structure and expectations, it can unintentionally exclude diverse voices and perspectives. This chapter explores how Christian Conferencing can be redefined to address white normativity in a local congregation, creating a more inclusive, just, and transformative space. Drawing from theological insights and lived experiences, it examines how the Holy Spirit, compassionate listening, liberating interdependence, and storytelling can reshape Christian Conferencing to reflect the fullness of God’s kin-dom. By highlighting marginalized voices, challenging dominant assumptions, and embracing the power of narratives, the church can move beyond surface-level inclusion toward deeper communal transformation. Through this process, Christian Conferencing becomes more than a method of discussion. It becomes a sacred practice of justice, reconciliation, and renewal in the body of Christ.