Connectional Table launches online forum for GC2016

Chicago, IL —  Continuing the conversation around key topics related to General Conference 2016, The Connectional Table begins a new series of #CTTalks today. #CTTalks is an online forum, a series of videos and social media conversations around key topics related to General Conference 2016.

This month highlights the work done to develop strategic directions in each of the Four Areas of Focus, the fruit of Vital Congregations, for the 2017-2020 quadrennium. This month’s videos will focus on four key issues as The United Methodist Church looks ahead to ministry together in the coming years: mission, resources, stewardship and vision. Interviewees include leaders from United Methodist boards and agencies, The Connectional Table, and the General Council on Finance and Administration (GCFA).

“As I’ve spoken with many delegations and constituencies, brothers and sisters from around our church over these last few months, it is clear that there is a great deal of excitement and energy swirling as we draw closer to this important event in the life of our United Methodist Church,” said Amy Valdez Barker, Executive Secretary of The Connectional Table.  “I was also reminded recently of how this energy can all-too-quickly be framed by a lens of crisis, giving fodder to fears that the work before us is too hard, that the structures aren’t adequate, and that the resources are too few. Yet, we are a church that is characterized by these times of conferencing. We grow and move as United Methodist Christians in these conferencing relationships with one another and with God.”

#CTTalks provides a way of engaging audiences with information about General Conference.  The #CTTalks conversation is designed to be used by delegates and delegations of annual conferences as they study and discuss issues that will be addressed at General Conference 2016. Weekly video posts include interviews with United Methodist bishops, Connectional Table members, and other leaders from across the denomination. Delegates are invited to ask questions of the interviewees in advance via Twitter using the hashtag #CTTalks.

An accompanying one-page conversation starter is available for delegates to use to continue the dialogue. The videos and the handout will be available on the Connectional Table website at www.UMC.org/CTTalks/Strategic-Directions.