Thank you for reminding us that the Body of Christ can not be broken.
I have been coming to the same position via another schism, that of the civic church and the Body of Christ. I have come to see that they, too, are one.
I appreciate your acknowledgement that you speak as a Methodist. I, too, grew up in Methodism and was, too, an Elder and Missionary for a number of years.
My family and I suffered grievously at the hands of some who were in authority over me in our Conference. We have been treated as pariah for decades.
I have experienced the abuse of those who practice schism in the name of the church. It has been difficult to forgive some in the church who have sought my destruction.
Thank you for making it clear to me that the church is not diminished by sin and error, my own and others.
Please forgive the intrusion of this very personal confession. It is certainly inappropriate in this forum. I do so leaning upon a spirit of fellowship in Christ that has grown in me among some of you. I am thankful that the Spirit has led me to you. I ask your prayers for restoration.
I am your brother and fellow elder and welcome your input.
I have a friend from one of our conferences who also was forced out by a renowned radical leadership.
Even today I wish that he would have stayed. Because leaving is relinquishing.
This is the place for such confessions and reconciliations. The power of healing begins when we identify the problem and truly, there are many - many - on this forum - of various confessions - who perceive an alienation which is not real.
This is obviously a Spirit compelled dialogue. Therefore, I am confident that your making that point clear will be used by the Spirit to heal, guide and bless others.