In this reflection, Patrick Scriven wrestles with a deceptively simple question: what is your change theory? Drawing on a 2026 Pew Research study showing Americans are uniquely pessimistic about their fellow citizens' morals, Scriven argues that authentic relationships across difference — not social media debate — are the most credible path to changing hearts and minds.

When a pastor and three college students from Bellingham made the journey to Washington, D.C., they joined over 2,000 United Methodists from across the country marching for immigration justice. Together they filled three city blocks, proving that for people of faith, the call to love their neighbors doesn't stop at the church door. Malia Fraser, who attended with a group from Garden Street UMC, has the story.

In the final entry of their discipleship series, Rev. Kathy Neary (Transitional Ministry Developer) and Patrick Scriven (Director of Communications) reflect on what’s worth saving in Methodism—and what needs to change if we’re truly serious about forming disciples who transform the world. Their closing exchange is honest, hopeful, and practical.

Rev. Paul Graves reflects on “going on to perfection” through a simple image: waiting for avocados to ripen. Drawing on John Wesley and 1 John 4, he defines perfection as maturing into love, not sinlessness. At 83, he names his “unfinished business”—immigrant solidarity, family legacy, continued learning—and invites his grandchildren to find theirs.

Rev. Kathy Neary and Patrick Scriven continue their conversation about the hard, hopeful work of centering discipleship. What would it take for Methodist “hubs” to fund formation, redeploy people, and practice honest sacrifice around property, schedules, and identity? They discuss a livable rule of life, and end with a question about our essential witness as United Methodists.