The Act of Repentance – Why Me?

The Act of Repentance – Why Me? By Sherry Wack EPACoNAM
In 2012 the worldwide United Methodist church initiated an act of repentance. The Council of Bishops issued a Statement of Repentance, the first paragraph of which reads:
As the Council of Bishops, we are here to repent and express remorse for the church’s past conduct in its relationships with Native and indigenous peoples in all the places where we have extended the mission of the church for over two hundred years. We are here to commit ourselves to addressing the wrong and asking for the forgiveness of those who have been wronged by failing them so profoundly. We confess to God, acknowledging our guilt, resolving to cease the harm, pledging ourselves to live differently, reversing the damage that has been done through our participation in violence, maltreatment and neglect of Native and indigenous peoples so that we may bring about healing and restoration to all. Continue Reading [PDF]