The Secret Transcript of the Council of Bishops

What would Wesley say? United Methodists have always looked to their founder for an example or a quick quote to justify their actions. The Secret Transcript of the Council of Bishops takes the readers inside the debate over homosexuality and church unity with John Wesley as their guide. Homosexuality raises a host of related questions about the nature and mission of the church, the meaning of membership, and the role of the episcopacy. The Secret Transcript of the Council of Bishops explores what Wesley had to say that can show us a more loving way to move forward.

Written as a dialogue among a group of fictitious United Methodist bishops, The Secret Transcript of the Council of Bishops explores the real-life implications of homosexuality on church unity. Every perspective in this complex and contentious debate is examined and respected as the reader explores how God might be speaking to us through the insights of John Wesley.


""Wood is an astute observer of things Methodist. This fictional conversation regarding the inclusion of LGBTQ persons in the church is laced with humor and irony, and a careful mining of historical resources. One hopes real-life bishops struggle as fully with the religion of the heart, or Wesley's practical theology and views on justification. Our current impasse is made clearer, and helpful hints are provided as to how we might find a way forward, together.""
--Philip A. Amerson, President-Emeritus, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

""Sadly, I missed this meeting of the Council of Bishops. The level of conversation is certainly more scintillating than most of the conversations I've heard at the United Methodist Council of Bishops. Wood has recorded a remarkably faithful exchange on some controversial subjects. . . . For all those in my beloved church who pray for edifying, healing, Christian conferencing, wait until you read this secret transcript!""
--Will Willimon, United Methodist Bishop, retired, and Professor of the Practice of Christian Ministry, Duke Divinity School

""John Wesley knew people would not all agree, even in the church! He encouraged honest, open, and respectful conversation that was 'always in grace, seasoned with salt, carefully planned, not too long in duration,' and begun, continued, and concluded in prayer. There's much to learn from Wood's ""secret"" imaginary conversation as The United Methodist Council of Bishops stay connected utilizing Wesley's guidance and wisdom to deepen the difficult conversation on homosexuality and discerning God's direction for the church.""
--Sharon Zimmerman Rader, Retired Bishop


Darren Cushman Wood (elder) is senior minister of North United Methodist Church, Indianapolis. He is the author of Blue Collar Jesus: How Christianity Supports Workers Rights.