The Methodist Conference: Methodist Forces Board

The Methodist Conference, meeting in Telford, has received a report from the Methodist Forces Board highlighting the work of those who minister to the women and men of His Majesty’s armed forces throughout the UK and around the world.  The report calls upon the Methodist Church to support its military chaplains to achieve the objectives of the Forces Board as the global security situation gives serious cause for concern.

The report states that, in the future, church communities may need to understand what it is to “be church” in a time of conflict and for appropriate resources to be in place in preparation for times of hostility. These resources, rooted in scripture and the teachings of the Church, should help Methodists with theological reflection and become practical tools for their ministry in a time of conflict. The report goes on to request new theological and pastoral resources to support the Methodist people in the light of the current global context of increasing conflict and insecurity with its associated challenges to the rules-based order of the international community.

Ecumenical work is currently taking place with the Church of England on what these resources may include from a theological perspective; thinking about war, peace and conflict, engaging with communities and practical suggestions for supporting military personnel and their families.

The Revd Kevin Highfield, Chair of the Methodist Forces Board, commented, “This work may involve a significant mental shift from the long period of relative peace that Europe has experienced. The Forces Board will consider more flexible and adaptive processes to respond to a fast-moving defence and security situation. Our processes are currently designed for periods of stability and peace. It may become necessary to discern a call to chaplaincy from a wider range of ministerial experience than at present.”