Michael Roberts will Resist Harm

Michael Roberts will Resist Harm

In my pastoral prayers, I often use the phrase “those whom each of us name in our hearts before you.” Since the Special General Conference last February, I name in my heart those in my current congregation and throughout the United Methodist connection who strive for faithfulness and fruitfulness, and who are directly harmed by the draconian measures passed at the last General Conference – measures that single out a select group of people for condemnation and punishment based solely on identity, that take away the possibility of putting calling, character, faithfulness, and fruitfulness before focusing on identity, that require oaths in order to be in certain leadership positions, and that create a globally elected body to enforce particular rules, a body likened by our Judicial Council to an “inquisitional court.” 

I continue to hold in prayer people that I love and consider siblings in Christ. In support of all those singled out and harmed for decades, I was blessed to participate in the service at FUMC Little Rock, as a part of a National Day of Resistance. I also continue to be involved in #ResistHarm and use the resources available to all of us at https://resistharm.com/

As a UM Pastor and a delegate to General Conference from Arkansas, I call upon all (those who identify as traditionalists, centrists, progressives or some kind of mix – like me) to stand for continued conversation, to stand for inclusion of diverse voices within the body of Christ, and to stand up as a witness to the high and holy love of God for ALL – a love that calls us into unity in love rather than uniformity by law. Come Holy Spirit as we all open ourselves to your calling and your love! Join me as we #ResistHarm!

Rev. Michael Roberts (he, him, his)

Recent Updates

A Message to the UMC: Resist Harm
In the wake of a postponed General Conference and a continued pandemic, we are urgently called again to the work of Christ – in all the ways we can. Ever more clearly, we discern the disconnect between the logistics of our gathering and the call of the gospel.  The institutional fight to enshrine anti-LGBTQ+ policies […]
Prayer of Witness
Pray With those who have another year for preparing to serve as delegates to General Conference, that they may have patience in this time of waiting; With those who live in places where it is unsafe to claim the name of Christ; With those struggling to live Jesus’ way in places where money, power, greed, […]
Prayer of Light
Pray With those affected by natural disasters With those who are in their own dark night of the soul With those who see no hope or light With those around the world weary and searching for hope throughout years of war and disease With those who don’t see God’s promise of resurrection With those trapped […]
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Latest Resources

February Worship Planning Worksheet
We invite you to incorporate the work of resisting harm into the worship life of your church or group.  This worksheet is a tool for use by individuals or groups, as a starting point for finding ways to incorporate #ResistHarm into regular Sunday worship, small group meetings, or vigils and special services; it includes some starting points, […]
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Liturgy from enfleshed
With a commitment to spiritual and theological depth and the centering of marginalized experiences, conversations, and communities, enfleshed seeks to provide liturgy, devotionals, curriculum, preaching, training, and pastoral care that addresses honestly, tenderly, and directly, the beauty and pain of living enfleshed lives.
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Songs for the Holy Other
The Hymn Society has edited and shares this free volume of hymns affirming the LGBTQIA2S+ community. Visit their site to download.
See Resource

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Resist Harm is organized by everyday United Methodists in every corner of the connection and is supported by a number of organizational partners.* To learn more about our partners, visit their websites:
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*The tools, resources, and opportunities posted on Resist Harm have been suggested by people or organizations associated with the movement. They are not necessarily endorsed by all of the partners.
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