Baltimore, MD – From February 28 to March 2, 2025, the General Commission on Religion and Race (GCORR) of The United Methodist Church convened near Baltimore, Maryland, for its board meeting. Board members from around the world gathered for strategic discussions, business sessions, and intentional fellowship. This meeting was particularly significant as it coincided with the board meeting of El Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry, offering a powerful opportunity for joint worship and relationship-building.
The three-day meeting provided dedicated time for committee work and in-depth exploration of GCORR’s mission and vision, focusing on leading the denomination in transformative ways throughout this quadrennium. Board members representing the Central Conferences shared updates on the work and challenges within their regions, fostering dialogue on strengthening partnerships with global church communities.
Presentations from the GCORR Board President and General Secretary offered reflections on the current state of The United Methodist Church and the broader world. Their messages emphasized the commission’s call to build a more just and equitable church and society. Board President, Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi offered a powerful message on emergence, drawing from Isaiah 43:19— Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?—reminding the board of the revival and vitality of The United Methodist Church.
Throughout the meeting, board members examined key issues shaping the church’s future, including diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI); tribalism and ethnic conflict; immigration and migration; White Christian nationalism; and disability justice. Board members reflected on the question: What concrete steps can we take to equip and support our annual conferences and congregations in addressing these issues? These conversations reaffirmed GCORR’s commitment to fostering inclusion and equity across the denomination and beyond.
The board also explored ways to engage and empower younger generations in the church’s racial justice and equity efforts, recognizing the importance of their voices and leadership in shaping the future of the church. Staff reports provided further insight into ongoing programs and strategic initiatives for the coming year.
Rev. Dr. Giovanni Arroyo, General Secretary of GCORR, emphasized the importance of the commission’s ongoing work, stating:
As we navigate this moment in the life of The United Methodist Church and the world, our call to justice, equity, and inclusion is more urgent than ever. This board meeting reaffirmed our commitment to walking alongside congregations and communities, equipping them to confront racism and build a church where all people are fully seen, valued, and embraced. The work ahead is challenging, but it is sacred, and we step forward with faith and determination.
Looking ahead, the final session focused on envisioning GCORR’s work beyond 2028. The meeting concluded with an anointing service, where board members and staff blessed one another, saying:
In the name of Jesus, I bless you. May God’s healing presence rest on you and fill you with grace, love, and strength as you do this work.
With renewed commitment, GCORR board members and staff left the gathering prepared to continue their vital work in building a more just and equitable church and world.
The next GCORR board meeting is scheduled to take place virtually in July 2025.
The General Commission on Religion and Race is one of 13 church-wide agencies of The United Methodist Church. The Commission offers teaching resources, training, and networking for Christians seeking to bring their faith to the task of dismantling racism, tribalism, and xenophobia in all forms. More information available at www.gcorr.org