In Sympathy: James Wilson
Rev. James M. Wilson, a member of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on Monday, October 6, 2025.
Heritage Sunday, celebrated the third Sunday of May, is a time for United Methodists to reflect on their legacy and consider their own place in the story of The United Methodist Church.
Sacred stories are at the heart of our denomination’s heritage. In 2025, the General Commission on Archives and History (GCAH) encourages local churches to lift up and celebrate stories from those who have been silenced in the past with its Heritage Sunday theme, “Sacred Stories: Ministries of LGBTQ+ United Methodists.” Heritage Sunday traditionally is recognized the third Sunday in May (May 18 this year), but congregations may choose to commemorate the special Sunday at any time.
“When we hear one another’s stories, we discover our common bonds as people of faith, as children of God,” observes Dr. Ashley Boggan, GCAH general secretary. “For too long, we have not sought out nor listened to stories from the LGBTQ+ community in The United Methodist Church. We welcome and hold precious these authentic experiences of struggle, deep faith, pain and love. This Heritage Sunday, all of us at the General Commission on Archives and History thank you and your United Methodist congregation for your own sacred stories and encourage you to draw the circle wide so that all can share from their lived encounters within the church.”