Inclusiveness counts at our
annual conference session











In preparation for the Southwest Texas Annual Conference session next month, we on the Commission on Religion and Race are partnering with the General Commission on Religion and Race to promote Inclusiveness Counts!
This initiative is intended to remind members of our annual conference of the importance of racial/ethnic diversity and, indeed, inclusiveness in all our deliberations—especially in voting for delegates to the 2008 General and South
Central Jurisdictional conferences.
We are prayerful that our fellow clergy and lay members will be sensitive to the need and dedicated to the goal of inclusiveness as together we seek to affirm our denomination’s call and commitment to that sacred principle.

Inclusiveness Counts
because we all share the same creator and are part of God’s family, a beautifully diverse family! Together, we are part of God’s household, sisters and brothers in Christ and one another.
Inclusiveness Counts
because in God’s household all people are equal and because no one is left out. On the contrary, those who have been left out are given the first seats and special consideration.
Inclusiveness Counts
because in God’s household love and justice come together as one in truth. Our words of love must be manifested by our actions of justice, a justice that embraces all people from all backgrounds and invites them to be present as equals at our common table.
Inclusiveness Counts
because our song of faith and righteousness isn’t complete until all voices are heard in rich harmonies that honor and worship God with the fullness and wisdom of our diverse insights and perspectives.
Inclusiveness Counts
because it is an integral part of who we are as United Methodists and, more importantly, as faithful disciples of Jesus Christ who reach out to welcome and transform the world that indeed is in our parish.

I challenge my fellow members of the Southwest Texas Conference to reflect on why you think Inclusiveness Counts, especially as we approach our General and jurisdictional conferences in 2008. Surely it is time for us to practice what we preach and to vote for diversity as we elect our leaders and delegates because undeniably in our church family and
in God’s household, Inclusiveness Counts!
The Rev. Sharon Stewart is chair of the Commission on Religion and Race.