United Methodist Church Conference Calls for Courageous Leadership Amid Loneliness and Technological Change

The United Methodist Church is being called to address the growing issue of loneliness in a world increasingly connected through technology. This challenge was a central theme at the SCD 2026 — RISE UP: Love, Serve, Lead conference, held Aug. 2-5 at the Hyatt Regency Columbus. The event, part of the School of Congregational Development, aimed to chart the denomination’s future through a new vision statement introduced by the Council of Bishops and Connectional Table in May.

The Rev. Theon Johnson III, senior pastor at Campbell United Methodist Church in California, spoke on courageous leadership. He emphasized the unique challenges of the current era, marked by technological innovation, political polarization, and profound loneliness. Johnson framed the conference as an invitation to rise up, to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously. He described these words not just as ideals but as a call to action for the church.

The conference featured nationally recognized speaker Carey Nieuwhof, music from the SCD Worship Ensemble, and three presentations building on the vision statement. Workshops covered topics such as starting a multi-ethnic new faith community, creating a welcoming culture, engaging younger generations, and anti-racist discipleship. These sessions aimed to equip leaders with practical tools for church growth and innovation.

Five awards were presented during the maiden SCD Celebration Night on Aug. 4. The honors recognized churches and leaders demonstrating creativity, resilience, next-generation investment, and connectional leadership. Attendees included prominent figures such as Rev. Jeffrey M. Campbell, Rev. Cynthia Wilson, and Bishops Hee-Soo Jung, Rubén Saenz Jr., and Tracy S. Malone.

Michael Bowie, national executive director of United Methodist Strengthening the Black Church for the 21st Century, praised the event for its hands-on approach and sense of fellowship. He noted the opportunity to connect with both old friends and new leaders, highlighting the importance of community and collaboration in church life.

The RISE UP conference is part of the School of Congregational Development, a biennial initiative by Discipleship Ministries. The program is designed to assist clergy and lay leaders in planting, revitalizing, and innovating local churches. Lori Valentine Martinez, pastor of Bethany United Methodist Church in Virginia, led a workshop on starting and sustaining multi-vocational churches, reflecting the conference’s focus on practical leadership and community building.

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