Austin District Amos Commission
The Amos Commission helps members and visitors understand relevant social issues and inspires people to take various forms of advocacy. Each year, the commission organizes the Wilson Wade Memorial Lecture Series, focussing on one particular issue and examining it from different perspectives.

For more details, email:
Brian Heymans at bheymans@mindspring.com or
David Mattax at dmattax@grandecom.net

BridgeBuilders
The purpose of this ministry is to build relationships and bridge the racial divides we see in Austin. Currently, this effort involves five Methodist churches – Berkeley, St. Luke, St. Peter’s, University & Wesley – with the goal of welcoming others in the future. The signature event each year is a program and meal on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. In addition, the group sponsors an annual picnic, Bible study groups and discussions of current issues.

For more details, email Chad Fulton: chadfulton@yahoo.com

Church and Society Committee
The Committee promotes awareness of social justice within the church, the community and the world. It supports Austin Area Interreligious Ministries (aaimaustin.org) financially and informs University UMC members of AAIM activities. It studies Austin Interfaith (austininterfaith.org).

It supports public policy organizations such as Center for Public Policy Priorities Icppp.org), Texas Impact (texasimpact.org), Texas Freedom Network & Faith Network (tfn.org), Methodists for Social Action (MFSA) and informs UUMC members about their activities.

For more details, email John Yeaman: yeaperson@sbcglobal.net

John Yeaman recently sent a letter to Sen. Steve Ogden about a Texas bill before the legislature regarding embryonic stem cell research in Texas. John is involved with UUMCs Church and Society Committee, which promotes awareness and is also a member of Methodists for Social Action (MFSA).

Here is a link is the full text of his letter and a brief note from John to fellow UUMC members.

Reconciling Ministries Network (RMN)
Many of UUMC’s Sunday school classes, homerooms and United Methodist Women circles participate in RMN. This rapidly growing movement of United Methodists works for full participation of all people in the United Methodist Church, including people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

RMN is an independent, not-for-profit organization with no official ties to The United Methodist Church. While not officially United Methodist, RMN is part of the Methodist tradition of social concern and action.

For more details, email Michael Coughlan: michael@hendrixcoughlan.com