Bishops affirm SMU’s
Bush library process
Church leaders praise
open communication
by UM school officials
United Methodist News Service
DALLAS—South Central Jurisdiction bishops affirmed the process Feb. 5 by which Southern Methodist University was seeking to host the George W. Bush presidential library.
“We believe Southern Methodist University’s trustees and administration are acting responsibly and in good faith,” the bishops said in a resolution adopted during their quarterly meeting.
The bishops praised SMU President Gerald Turner’s “careful stewardship and advocacy of the historic relationship between the university and the church” throughout this process.
Bush is considering SMU for his presidential library and related policy center after his second term ends in 2008. First Lady Laura Bush is a graduate of the UM-related university and a member of its board of trustees.
Founded in 1911, the school is owned by the South Central Jurisdiction. Its bylaws occasionally require approval by the South Central Jurisdictional Conference of trustee actions involving the sale and/or leasing of property.
Three bishops serve as members of the SMU board.
“We understand the controversy involved in this proposal,” the bishops said in their resolution. “Our action today is focused on the process in which SMU has been engaged. SMU has been forthcoming and transparent in its dealings and communication with us.”
The resolution was approved by the 10 active bishops present at the meeting, including Bishop Joel N. Martinez of San Antonio. Retired bishops have a voice but don’t vote on actions of the college.
The South Central Jurisdiction represents United Methodists in eight states and includes the Southwest Texas Conference.
The Bushes are members of Highland Park UMC, which sits at the edge of the SMU campus.
