NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The United Methodist Church will increase its emphasis on young people's ministries if a proposal to the denomination's lawmaking body is approved.
According to the United Methodist News Service, the United Methodist Board of Discipleship approved legislation requesting the establishment of a Division on Ministries with Young People to help the church embrace youth and young adults as partners in ministry.
If approved by the 2004 General Conference, the division would be housed at the board.
"The General Board of Discipleship made a history-changing decision that will affect the United Methodist Church in such a way that, God-willing, would make us a more spirit-filled church," said Analisa Trejo, the chairperson of the United Methodist Youth Organization. The unit could close the gap between youth and older adults in the United Methodist Church, she said.
Ciona Rouse, director of the Shared Mission Focus on Young People, also praised the board's action. "As partners in ministry, we are moving forward with a dream that will enable young people to be disciples of Christ and leaders of the church in an incredible new way."
The Shared Mission Focus on Young People, a denomination initiative, helped develop the proposal with the youth organization.
