Bishop Trimble on His Last Annual Conference as Bishop, His New Role as General Secretary of Board of Church and Society and General Conference

Bishop Julius C. Trimble is the Resident Bishop of the Indiana Area of the United Methodist Church.

Bishop Trimble has the personal mission to encourage all people with the love of Jesus Christ to rise to their highest potential. It is his commitment to his personal mission that led Bishop Trimble to create the “To Be Encouraged” Podcast along with co-host Rev.Dr. Brad Miller.

Bishop Trimble says, “I am compelled by Jesus to share with you an encouraging word or two about Jesus, theology, the Bible, the pandemic, the environment, racism, voting rights, human sexuality, and the state of the United Methodist Church.”

To Be Encouraged with Bishop Julius C. Trimble is to be published weekly and is available at www.tobeencouraged.com and all the podcast directories.

https://www.inumc.org/bishop/office-of-the-bishop/

In the latest episode 108 of "To Be Encouraged," host Rev. Dr. Brad Miller welcomes the esteemed Bishop Julius C. Trimble for an enlightening conversation that ranges from the personal to the globally impactful. As the newly appointed General Secretary of the General Board of Church and Society, Bishop Trimble brings a wealth of experience and passion for advocacy, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the pivotal role the church plays in society.

The episode begins with a reflection on the recent general conference, where Bishop Trimble highlights the love and reverence people, particularly those in Africa, have for the United Methodist symbol of the cross and the flame. This symbol is more than iconic; it represents health, education, and faith, foundational pillars that resonate deeply within the global Methodist community. Rev. Dr. Miller shares the positive energy and progress observed at the conference, focusing on pressing issues like climate care and access to essential resources such as nutritious food and clean water.

Bishop Trimble's recent appointment to the General Board of Church and Society is discussed in detail. He elucidates the social dimensions of the church and his vision for impactful advocacy work. From supporting legislation like PEPFAR aimed at eradicating diseases globally to engaging members of Congress in meaningful dialogue, Bishop Trimble emphasizes the church's commitment to social principles rooted in scripture and the tradition of social holiness.

A major theme of this episode is the upcoming annual conference in Indiana. Bishop Trimble shares his enthusiasm for this event, which he likens to a "church family reunion." He emphasizes the diversity of preaching and worship that will take center stage and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to connect with laypeople and new church ministries. The annual conference, he believes, marks a crucial turning point in the church's journey.

As the episode draws to a close, Bishop Trimble offers a powerful reflection on Psalm 24, wrapping up with a heartfelt prayer. Their conversation is charged with hope and mutual encouragement, encapsulating the core ethos of the "To Be Encouraged" podcast.

**Takeaway Points:**

1. The United Methodist symbol of the cross and the flame holds profound meaning, representing health, education, and faith within the global community.

2. Bishop Trimble’s new role involves advocating for social principles and engaging in meaningful legislative dialogue.

3. The annual conference in Indiana is highlighted as a turning point, celebrating diversity in preaching and worship and fostering community connection.

4. The General Board of Church and Society's vision focuses on making social principles influential and applicable globally, particularly in government decision-making.