Special to United Methodist Insight
There has been a lot of debate in the past five years in the United Methodist Church. Some comfortably declare themselves liberals or progressives. Others have attached to the designation of traditionalists with relative ease. Swaths of the UMC, a denomination known for being a representation of a middle way of sorts within the mainstream of American Christianity, have opted on at least one occasion or another for the label of “Centrist.”
This label, however, is notoriously and infamously tricky to define. At Room for All, we ever aim to serve and make clear that there should indeed be room for all, including most of these centrists.
This taxonomy is not complete. New varieties of centrist are being discovered daily. Please beware, at least in this author’s personal experience, that many centrists are hybrid varieties and capable of shifting over time from one taxonomy to another for the sake of conviction (thanks be to God!) or expedience (Heaven help us!).
centrist gratiensis
Perhaps the most common taxonomy of centrist. These folks favor the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ siblings. They want to see the UMC truly have room for all, but they recognize that it takes time for individuals and congregations they love to reach the same conclusion. They do not want to break relationships with those who see the world differently, who will never come around to a vision of inclusion but would rather extend even those siblings grace. This taxonomy often emerges out of a right recognition of their journey towards inclusion, which required grace. This variety is to be treasured but also flourishes best when it is exposed to the genuine harm of the continued exclusion of LGBTQIA+ siblings.
centrist institutionensis
This taxonomy of centrist values the institutional legacy of the UMC. They love our camps, hospitals, colleges, seminaries, mission causes and have an appreciation for how our connection as currently and institutionally configured has been mobilized towards great good over the decades now past. They grieve the demise of the connection. They remain committed to inclusion but can also be puzzled about how to move forward as they contemplate the collapse of the UMC and its institutional relationships potentially ahead. This variety serves as a helpful reminder to us about the appropriateness of grief over the losses to be faced if we cannot live with the diversity which is inherent to the UMC.
centrist fixerensis
This taxonomy is often found expressing the sentiments familiar to any parent on a long road trip. “Will everyone please just be quiet and get along.” This taxonomy of centrist often believes they are serving the greater good by decrying “both sides,” but in doing this is dismiss the legitimate differences and opportunities for dialogue. When difference and diversity are dismissed, so is the chance of genuine healing and hope. This centrist flourishes in many locations but is seldom a healthy and thriving variety of centrist. The commitment of this variety of centrist to inclusion only runs as deep as the willingness of the warring parties to quit fighting and get along.
centrist orthodoxus
This taxonomy is in favor of the full inclusion of LGBTQIA+ siblings as an expression of theology that flows from the broadest and deepest streams of Christian thought. This kind of centrist values the Apostle’s Creed, the Nicene Creed, and the Christological formulations they represent. They find that their LGBQIA+ siblings find a comfortable home included within this tradition. Within the UMC this taxonomy can even be found to place a hearty emphasis on sanctification (thinking of you, Steve Harper!). This taxonomy can grow nervous when some other traditional theological norms are challenged, but this an acceptable part of the dialogue for this variety, who consider this kind of conversation to be constitutive of the kingdom of God.
centrist humilitas
This variety of centrist wants to see everyone welcome in the UMC and fully included in its life but has little exposure to LGBTQIA+ individuals. They don’t know what the LGBTQIA+ letters mean (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual… and a + to include others who do not find themselves appropriately described by any of the above categories. The letters are about finding a way to acknowledge the experience and personhood of people who have been marginalized). These centrists are open to relationship and learning but are learning the language of inclusion, as it is not their native tongue. While this brand is humble enough to learn, let’s not fall into the trap of pridefully assuming that they cannot teach as well. We can all learn from their willingness to learn and be curious and genuine towards others.
centrist missionis
This centrist is convinced that the mission of the church requires inclusion. This is the only viable path forward for compelling, credible, continued kingdom work. This may be because of this centrist’s passion for the Church’s practical witness to justice. It may be because of this centrist’s commitment to evangelism. It can be both.
centrist absconditus
These are the allies of LGBTQIA+ siblings who fear making their alliance known. They favor inclusion but are afraid to say it. This is a timid variety, often seen only at the high tide of outrage about exclusive measures passed by the General Conference. There is still room for all of them, however.
centrist Gamaliel
This taxonomy does not favor inclusion personally and may even self-described as a traditionalist, but for any number of reasons listed above is content to live in communion and connection with those who do. The attitude of this variety is, “Let them go and see if God blesses them.”
centrist getitdonus
This variant wants inclusion, but desire to see it implemented in careful, practical, intentional, and strategic ways. The end goal of inclusion matters deeply to this variety and a wide range of coalition building, engagement, and empowerment activities are a part of their range. This variant can be unsavory occasionally, even to other centrists who operate more simply from a basis of grace, doctrine, or justice.
centrist politicus maximus
This taxonomy of centrist is relatively rare and excels in camouflage. While they may be conversant in the language of inclusion their more genuine commitment lies with whichever constituency can guarantee them a Bishop’s staff. Beware this variety above all others.
Thanks to Rev. Duane Carlisle for help with caricatures from Creative Commons and Rev. Mary Dicken for editorial assistance!
The Rev. Glenn Knepp serves as pastor of Ford Street United Methodist Church in Lapel, Ind., in the Indiana Annual Conference.