It called us to study, reflection, and advocacy for the full voice and participation of women in church and society. From Solidarity to Accountability At the end of this Ecumenical Decade, we as United Methodists can celebrate its learning, hopes, and recommendations. But, in the new millennium, we know that solidarity must grow into commitment and action. Indeed more is required. Accountability must follow these years of solidarity.
Accountability means taking responsibility for acting on all the expressions of solidarity.
Evidence of the fruits of our churches' labors will be found in changes in theological perspectives, the collection and assessment of data, shared power, active encouragement, specific recruitment, and support for success after recruitment. The work ahead presents new and old challenges which we must be ready to face. While there was broad diversity on certain issues, there is no doubting the clarion call to eliminate violence against women in all dimensions. We as United Methodists are called to embrace this vision and join to pray, lament, seek scriptural hope, and begin the intentional work needed to move forward from solidarity to accountability. A critical priority is the eradication of violence.