March 28th, 2025 | Rev. Dr. Mark Charles

If you follow me on social media, you will notice that when I write or post about my part in our life together as United Methodists, I often use the word “connexion.” Over the years I have often been asked why I choose to spell it the way I do, and my response is to take the teaching moment and inform the one who asks that this old British spelling of the word was the one used by John Wesley when he was speaking or writing about the people called Methodist. This spelling has its roots in the Latin word “connexio” which means “a binding or joining together.” As United Methodists, the idea of our connectedness with one another as individuals and local churches is of central importance.

This past week Pastor Rachel and I had the pleasure of experiencing “connexion” as we gathered with several hundred other clergy from across the Florida Conference at the Bishop’s Clergy Gathering. The worship together and the teaching from Bishop Berlin were inspiring for sure, but for me the best part by far was being in the room and getting to connect with my clergy colleagues again. There were handshakes and hugs, as well as catch-ups and conversations about how things are with one another, how things are with our families, how things are going in our churches. In the room there was a strong sense of unity, purpose, togetherness, and hope for the future of our work even in the midst the challenges we face in these times. When we created 100 flood buckets last October, they were taken to First UMC in Lakeland and from there taken to other United Methodist churches in storm affected areas for distribution throughout the communities that needed them most. That’s “connexion” at work.

“Connexion” matters, friends. It strengthens our witness of the gospel’s power to hold people together. It is a reminder that we are part of something bigger than ourselves, and that we are bound together by God’s great love for the world.

Blessings

Pastor Charlie