2013 is going to be an amazing year for social justice.  This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation (don’t miss seeing “Lincoln” in movie theaters now).  Already 9 states have passed legislation in support of same-sex marriage.  Yesterday, UMC Bishop Sally Dyke (Northern Illinois conference) publicly endorsed the Illinois Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act:  http://www.unitedmethodistreporter.com/2013/01/bishop-sally-dyck-endorses-same-sex-marriage-proposal-in-illinois/

WHAT CAN YOU DO?
How can you help the Methodist Church move to the right side of history, to embody the promise of:  “Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors”?
1)  Next weekend is the Process Coach Training Workshop, sponsored by Reconciling Ministries Network, more info here:  http://www.rmnetwork.org/act-now/reconciling-process-coach-trainings/   Can’t make the workshop?  Then join us for the dessert reception!  https://www.facebook.com/events/534885606531016/

2)  If your home church is part of the Southwest Texas Conference, then your church will send delegates this June to Corpus Christi to participate in Annual Conference.  Volunteers are needed to staff the MFSA and Reconciling Ministries tables in the convention hall, and to witness to interested delegates and visitors about the importance of full inclusion.
3)  Once every two years, the national Reconciling Ministries Network hosts a Convocation, this year on Labor Day w/e near Washington DC.  The Convocation draws Reconciling Methodists around the country to hear inspiring sermons, sing inclusive worship songs, learn during workshops taught by Reconciling leaders, and so much more!  Please consider joining the group of SWTX Methodists planning to travel to the 2013 RMN Convocation “ChurchQuake”.  Registration is opening soon NOW OPEN:  http://www.rmnetwork.org/2013-convocation-near-washington-d-c/

4)  Donate.  The SWTX Reconciling Ministries Team will soon begin taking donations to be used for future Reconciling events, Annual Conference witnessing expenses, supporting new Reconciling communities, and scholarships.  Stay tuned!

5)  Help plan for Methodist participation in Austin’s 2013 Pride Parade.  We had almost 250 Methodists in 2012, what can we do this year?  The committee is forming soon, and needs your ideas!

6)  “Like” the SWTX Reconciling Ministries Team on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/SWTX-Reconciling-Ministries-Team/318606888162024?fref=ts

7)  Stay educated, and keep sharing your personal stories.  Look for opportunities to attend or lead book studies and classes at your home church.