Bishop Thomas J. Bickerton, president of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church has called on fellow United Methodists to use the Lenten Season to pray that God will create within us a clean heart and a renewed spirit.

“There is no doubt that as we absorb the realities of splintering, disaffiliation, and post-Covid, it is time for us as United Methodists to make the pivot away from what was into new and concerted efforts to reclaim, revive and renew The United Methodist Church throughout the world,” Bishop Bickerton said in the Lent message released today on Ash Wednesday.

Bishop Bickerton called on United Methodists to breathe out anger and disappointment, and breathe in once again our calling and identity as United Methodists.  “Let’s Reclaim that we are a people called to love all; a people called to serve all; and a people called to openly worship our loving God with joy and anticipation. (John 13:35)”

He called on the church to Revive our belief in the love of God, our creator; the grace of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior; and the communion we have with the Holy Spirit, our ever-present guide and inspiration. (2 Corinthians 13:13) “Let’s revive our belief in the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.  Let’s revive our belief in one another and the power of God to use even us to transform a broken world.”

Writing on behalf of the COB, Bishop Bickerton urged United Methodists to Renew our mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.  “Let’s renew our commitment to reach out to all who need the saving grace and love of Jesus Christ with joy and enthusiasm. (Matthew 28:19-20)”

Click here to read the full statement by Bishop Bickerton.

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