Methodists talk hopes, challenges at annual conference

JACKSON, Tenn. — Methodist delegates, clergy and church members spend four days focusing on their faith. Nearly 1,000 people made their way to Northside United Methodist Church to be a part of the 177th annual conference.

“What we are stressing now more than ever are making disciples of Jesus Christ, the primary relationship being with the Lord,” Dr. Joseph A. Geary said. Geary is the Director of Connectional Ministries for the Memphis Conference United Methodist Church.

Geary said churches in North America are seeing a decline in membership but have been for decades. That decline is also seen in the Roman Catholic faith and the Southern Baptist denomination.

“The good news is, throughout the world, the United Methodist Church is growing as are the other churches. The decline is more of a North American challenge in this current culture that is a global issue,” Geary said.

This decline is also bringing about hope as pastors say they’re making sure their focus goes beyond the walls of their buildings and that they engage people.

“At its best level, the conference is about relationships and the way God uses people to help each other, to then turn around and love and help Jackson,” Pastor Don Thrasher with Northside United Methodist Church said.

The conference began Sunday and finishes Wednesday. There are 30 counties in the Memphis Conference, which includes areas of Kentucky and West Tennessee. Nearly 80,000 members are included in this area.