This is gives some nice outside perspective into the process--the GMC is having to reckon with the new situation where congregations themselves are more autonomous (own their own property now, have more decision making power in who the pastor will be), and I think that is making the question of the role of bishops challenging for former UMC folks, who for so long operated in a strictly top down way. I think (and pray and hope!) that a better model will come forward, but we shall see. I agree that strong, orthodox bishops would be a great gift to the movement.
This is gives some nice outside perspective into the process--the GMC is having to reckon with the new situation where congregations themselves are more autonomous (own their own property now, have more decision making power in who the pastor will be), and I think that is making the question of the role of bishops challenging for former UMC folks, who for so long operated in a strictly top down way. I think (and pray and hope!) that a better model will come forward, but we shall see. I agree that strong, orthodox bishops would be a great gift to the movement.