July-August 2026
Dear Brooklyn Church Family,
Wisconsin Annual Conference 2026
“Practicing Hope” (Romans 5:3–5)
The 2026 Wisconsin Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church gathered June 4–7 at the Madison Marriott West Convention Center in Middleton, Wisconsin. This year’s theme was “Practicing Hope,” based on Romans 5:3–5. The scripture reminded us that hope is formed through suffering, endurance, character, and the love of God through the Holy Spirit.
One message I carried home from the conference is that hope is not just what we believe. Hope is what we practice. We practice hope in worship, in prayer, in serving our neighbors, in welcoming new people, in caring for children and youth, and in continuing the work of Christ even when the world feels uncertain.
Under the leadership of Bishop Dan Schwerin, the conference invited us to remain faithful, connectional, and courageous. We were also encouraged to think about innovation, love, and joining God’s mission in the world through the Bible study led by Rev. Dr. Kenda Creasy Dean. Her teaching reminded us that the future of the church will not be built by fear, nostalgia, or survival thinking. It will be shaped by love, imagination, courage, and trust in God.
We were reminded that the church does not exist simply to maintain itself. The church exists to share God’s love, make disciples of Jesus Christ, and participate in God’s healing work in the world. The Annual Conference also included many reports, budgets, motions, and carefully timed agenda items. But in the middle of all that serious work, there was also joy. At one point, I found myself dancing and also enjoying watching our two lay leaders dance. I can assure you this was not listed as an offi cial conference action item, but it felt like a picture of the church. We all join the divine dance and move together. Sometimes we know the steps. Sometimes we miss the beat. Sometimes we surprise ourselves. But we keep moving together with laughter, grace, and trust in God. Hope, I discovered again, sometimes has a rhythm of ups and downs.
As I returned home, I found myself thinking about what “practicing hope” means for our own congregation. It means we keep showing up. We worship faithfully. We pray for one another. We care for those who are sick, grieving, lonely, or tired. We welcome neighbors. We support children and youth. We serve our community. We listen deeply. We try again when things are not perfect. The Annual Conference reminded me that hope is not passive. Hope is something we do together. Hope is practiced in small acts of faithfulness, in shared ministry between clergy and laity, and even in moments of holy laughter on the dance floor.
May we continue to practice hope together, trusting that God is still at work among us, through us, and beyond us.
Blessings,
Jinkyoung You
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Beginning in July, my pastoral time between the two churches will be adjusted to 25% at Brooklyn UMC and 75% at Grace UMC. Because of this change, my offi ce hours will also be adjusted, and I will be staying in Belleville during my offi ce hours. If you would like to meet with me or request a pastoral visit, please contact me directly by phone at 256-631-9906 or by email at holistic78@gmail.com. Bible studies and other events held at Grace UMC in Belleville will also be shared with Brooklyn UMC. Everyone from Brooklyn is warmly welcome to join and participate. Thank you for your understanding, support, and continued partnership in ministry.