Restructure and the “Ladder of Inference”

I am not debating the validity of any of these claims. I’m just pointing out that they are interpretations of facts, not the facts themselves. They are indications of climbing the ladder of inference. We would all do well to realize when we are adding our values and assumptions to what actually has happened and to take a step back for a reality check. Our inferences have formed over many years of experience, but they are not the only way to view the world. They demonstrate both our wisdom and our failure to see beyond our own ideas.

Click here to read Carol Krau’s comments on change theory and the responses to the action of the General Administration Committee.


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Mission and Ministry
Participants in the Korean Association of The United Methodist Church’s 50th anniversary convocation pose with San Francisco Bay behind them after morning worship Oct. 6. The theme of the Oct. 5-8 gathering in Burlingame, Calif., was “Encounter, Engage, Empower.” Photo by the Rev. Eung-Sun Kim, UM News.

Korean church leaders welcome new generation

The Korean Association of The United Methodist Church celebrated its 50th anniversary with 315 clergy and lay leaders. Those gathered explored ways to nurture the next generation’s leadership and strengthen partnerships across communities.
General Church
The Rev. Paul Seay. Photo courtesy of the author.

Leadership Gathering should focus on local church

United Methodist leaders have benignly neglected local congregations for too long, a pastor writes. Any effort to revitalize the denomination must focus on them.
General Church
The Rev. Dr. Luan-Vu “Lui” Tran. Photo courtesy of author.

A vision for funding regional conferences

Each regional United Methodist conference should contribute according to its capacity. Equal constitutional authority doesn’t require equal financial obligation, writes an assistant chancellor.

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