No discussion was needed for the worldwide body, meeting May 2-12, to pass the amendment 831 to 45. During a May 4 service, United Methodists confessed to the sin of racism within the denomination. The act of repentance and call for reconciliation were an attempt to recapture the spirit of Methodism lost when some African Americans in the 18 th and 19 th centuries felt compelled to leave the church's predecessor bodies and form their own congregations. The United Methodist Church proclaims the value of each person as a unique child of God and commits itself to the healing and wholeness of all persons. The United Methodist Church recognizes that the sin of racism has been destructive to its unity throughout its history.
Racism continues to cause painful division and marginalization.
The United Methodist Church shall confront and seek to eliminate racism, whether in organizations or in individuals, in every facet of its life and in society at large. The United Methodist Church shall work collaboratively with others to address concerns that threaten the cause of racial justice at all times and in all places.