Discern

Any movement of God is always preceded by a time of prayer and discernment. Samuel’s pursuit of God’s guidance resulted in great change and flourishing for the nation of Israel. Believers’ earnest prayers for Peter’s safety in prison in the book of Acts led to his release. And Jesus’ reliance on his Heavenly Father in Gethsemane paved the way for him to face the cross. Before our congregation makes this important decision about the future of our church, we, too, need to spend time with God, seeking His strength and wisdom. We hope you will faithfully join us as we discern a way forward.

Next Steps

 

Trusting in God’s provision: As a prayer-driven church, we will continue to seek God’s direction and guidance for the process of separation.

Time of Discernment: January 9 – February 19

  • Discernment begins with prayer time – quieting the mind and body to listen for the Holy Spirit. During the time of discernment, senior pastor Jeff Kersey is calling all the members of Mt. Horeb United Methodist Church to daily prayer, fasting, and listening for the Spirit. This time of discernment will begin on January 9. During this time of discernment, consider these questions during your prayer time as an individual, a couple, a family, or a small group.
    • What do we believe as followers of Jesus Christ?
    • What are we as a church?
    • How are we serving the world?

 

Listening Sessions

Because there is much wisdom in the company of many, Mt. Horeb United Methodist Church is hosting three listening sessions. You will need to register to attend. These meetings are for church members only.

  • Each session will include an informational overview and a panel discussion featuring members of our clergy and lay leadership teams. We ask that you submit your questions at the time of registration to give our teams the best opportunity to research information and prepare a helpful answer for the session you choose to attend.
  • To register for a listening session, click on the one you would like to attend.
    Session 1: Sunday, January 22 from 3:00-5:00 PM
    Session 2: Wednesday, January 25 from 6:30-8:00 PM
    Session 3: Tuesday, January 31 from 7:00-8:30 PM
  • Are you looking for answers right now? Start on our FAQ page and select a topic of interest. Don’t see the answer to your question? Complete and submit the form on the FAQ page, and we will do our best to post the answer.

Church Wide Meeting: Sunday, February 5 at 5 PM

  • In this meeting, all financial costs and other requirements of separation will be presented again and discussed. Church members will be allowed to discuss with the panel any further questions or concerns.

Called Church Conference

  • Mt. Horeb United Methodist Church’s leadership is anticipating a congregational vote to decide our next step. This vote is for members only. The plan is to hold this event on February 26 at 3 PM.

View Our Discernment Guide

Discernment Guide

How did we get here?

The United Methodist Church has never been truly united. For about 50 years, church leaders have been distracted, divided and in disagreement regarding Christology (who Jesus is), Biblical authority and interpretation, sexual ethics and the definition of marriage.

Read More

Where do we go from here?

Mt. Horeb United Methodist Church joins other congregations in the South Carolina Conference in discerning a new future outside the United Methodist Church. Each church must choose a discernment pathway that best reflects its theological beliefs, core values and Christian mission in the world.

Read More
Expand Menu +