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The year 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of women receiving full ordination rights and full membership in annual conferences in The United Methodist Church. In recognition of this milestone, the 2026 Heritage Sunday theme is “The Spirit Falls Equally,” an acknowledgement that God calls – and always has called – all people, regardless of gender.
“From early leaders like Susanna Wesley and Jarena Lee and throughout Methodism’s history, women have long shaped the witness and ministry of the church,” points out Dr. Ashley Boggan, GCAH general secretary. “The theme, ‘The Spirit Falls Equally,’ reminds us that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit has never been limited by human boundaries. Even when their gifts were not fully affirmed by the church, women have been called to lead, preach and serve throughout our denomination’s history.”
The General Commission on Archives and History (GCAH) encourages local churches to lift up and celebrate stories of women who have impacted both the denomination and individual congregations. Heritage Sunday traditionally is recognized the third Sunday in May (May 17 this year), but congregations may choose to commemorate the special Sunday at any time.
The 2026 Heritage Sunday theme for The United Methodist Church is “The Spirit Falls Equally,” an acknowledgement that God calls – and always has called – all people, regardless of gender.
The General Commission on Archives and History has curated a list of resources for the Heritage Sunday 2026 theme of "The Spirit Falls Equally."
