Social justice is embedded in the history of the United Methodist Church. According to UMC.org that history begins with Wesley himself, and the early church’s opposition to slavery, smuggling, prison conditions, alcohol abuse and more. See this article by Rev. Ryan Dunn on social justice. It encompasses how social justice can mean many things to individuals, but how it is about easing the burdens of others, and ensuring mutual welfare. "Our love of God is always linked with love of our neighbor, a passion for justice and renewal in the life of the world" (Book of Discipline 2012, p. 51).
The Church has a set of Social Principles meant to “urge us to make a difference and to live differently in the world” (UMC.org). These social principles date back to 1908, and have been revised since 2013.
According to UMC.org the United Methodist Church “affirms that sexuality is God’s good gift to all persons”. Every individual “are of sacred worth and equally valuable in the sight of God”. The church deplores acts of hate and works to uphold the principle of inclusiveness of the church. However, the church is currently split on the issue after the passing of language in 2016 stating that “homosexuality is incomplatible with Christian teaching”. There has been many calls and agreement that the church will need to seperate. Our group, is amongst the many, that believe that living by the statement that all “are of sacred worth and equally valuable” is incompatible with the stating that homosexuality is against Christian teaching.
Some suggestions for things to do by UMCjustice.org are to listen openly to the experience of people whose lived experience is different than yours, create safe spaces for young people, and advocate for laws protecting the dignity and rights of people of all sexual orientations.
The Proposed Social Principles for 2020 state the following:
“We affirm human sexuality as a sacred gift and acknowledge that sexual intimacy contributes to fostering the emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being of individuals and to nurturing healthy sexual relationships that are grounded in love, care and respect.”
“Because all people are of sacred worth and certain basic human rights are due to everyone, we are committed to supporting the equal rights, liberties and protections of all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.”
“Moreover, because in many countries sexual and gender minorities are disproportionately impacted by social stigmas, discrimination, coercion and violence, we call on churches, governments, businesses, and civic organizations to do all in their power to combat such unjust treatment and to promote equal rights and protections for all.”