Dash of Thought November 2026

It was a profound experience for me to be part of the Leadership Gathering of The United Methodist Church held in Calgary in late October 2026. Over 230 Methodists from around the world gathered there to pray together, celebrate, listen to God and to one another – and to discuss what the future of our church might look like. It was encouraging to see how many young Methodists were in attendance – one-third of the participants were under 35 years old. This clearly illustrated the goal of shaping a church together with young people – a church that remains relevant for future generations.
A total of 16 recommendations for the future were developed at this gathering. 
The following aspects are particularly important to me:
· a focus on children, adolescents, and young adults: We will allocate resources specifically for people under 18, support young adults, and seek new ways to accompany children and adolescents on their journey of faith.
· a return to our Wesleyan identity and following Jesus: We nurture relationships within the worldwide church and find new forms of evangelism and community discipleship – including by consciously moving away from existing structures and buildings.
· a commitment to social justice and social responsibility: We actively work to combat injustice, evil, and oppression.
· a purposeful use of the resources entrusted to us: Instead of using them for self-preservation, we deploy our financial and material resources flexibly, contextually, and boldly for the church’s mission and to strengthen our volunteers.
I sensed how much energy – to change or let go of what we have done so far – and hope for what is yet to come are contained in these recommendations. They show how we, to borrow Paul’s words, can and want to plant and water, trusting that God will make it grow. I am delighted to be a part of this and am happy to contribute. I look forward to the future of our church – including in Europe and in our regional conference!
 
Bishop Stefan Zürcher
 
Photo: Calgary (Source: Pixabay)


Link to the 16 recommendations: https://www.umnews.org/en/news/gathering-offers-16-ideas-for-church-future