G.R.O.W Retreat: Social Principles

What d

What does it mean to follow Jesus in a complicated world?

The United Methodist Social Principles exist to help us wrestle with that question faithfully. They are not rules or political talking points. They are a prayerful, communal effort to articulate how our Christian faith shapes the way we live, love, and witness in the world.

At their heart, the Social Principles remind us that faith is never meant to be lived in isolation. John Wesley called this social holiness—the belief that our love of God is inseparable from our love of neighbor, creation, and the wider community. What we believe on Sunday inevitably shapes how we live on Monday.

A Faith Rooted in Scripture and Grace

The Social Principles are grounded in scripture and shaped by the conviction that God’s grace is always at work—calling us toward justice, mercy, and humility. They address real-world concerns such as care for creation, economic justice, human dignity, and our responsibilities within society and civic life.

Rather than offering easy answers, the Social Principles invite us into deeper reflection:

• How do we care for God’s creation in a time of environmental crisis?

• What does dignity look like in our workplaces, families, and communities?

• How do we seek peace and the common good in a divided world?

These are not abstract questions. They are deeply spiritual ones.

A Day Set Apart for Learning and Discernment

Our upcoming retreat creates space to slow down and engage these questions together. Through scripture, guided conversation, prayer, and reflection, participants will explore the core themes of the Social Principles and consider how they shape faithful discipleship today.

This retreat is not about telling people what to think. It is about creating space for:

• Holy listening

• Thoughtful dialogue

• Prayerful discernment

• Faithful response

In a culture that often rewards certainty and speed, this day invites us to practice patience, humility, and trust in the Holy Spirit’s work among us.

From Reflection to Faithful Living

The goal of the retreat is not simply learning—it is transformation. Participants will be encouraged to reflect on how God might be calling them to live out their faith more intentionally in daily life, in the church, and in the wider community.

As the prophet Micah reminds us, God’s desire is not complicated:

“What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8)

This retreat is an opportunity to explore what that calling looks like here and now.

Join Us 1/31/ from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

If you are longing for deeper connection between faith and life, curious about the Social Principles, or simply seeking space to reflect and pray, this retreat is for you. Come with your questions, your hopes, and your openness to God’s ongoing work.

God is not finished with us yet—and this day is one step along that faithful journey.

You can sign up at the welcome desk. If you have questions please contact Pastor Matt.