Annual Conference

West Ohio delegates raise their arms in praise during morning worship at the 2024 United Methodist General Conference in Charlotte, N.C. From right are the Revs. April Casperson and Dee Stickley-Miner and Tracy Chambers. On Nov. 5, the Council of Bishops announced annual conference voters ratified four ballots of constitutional amendments passed at General Conference. In addition to regionalization, the ratified amendments deal with inclusion in church membership, racial justice and educational requirements for clergy. Casperson helped lead the task force that championed the passage of the amendment on inclusiveness. File photo by Mike DuBose, UM News.

Church strengthens stands on inclusion, racism

In addition to regionalization, United Methodist voters ratified three other amendments to the denomination’s constitution including changes that make clear the church’s belief that God’s love is for all people.

Church Leadership

Participants at the inaugural Southeastern Jurisdiction Asian American Ministers Gathering pose for a photo during the May 13-15 event at the Korean United Methodist Church of Greater Washington in McLean, Va. Themed “Thriving Together,” the gathering drew 111 participants from eight annual conferences, who came together to celebrate their spiritual heritage, foster deeper connections and strengthen ministries. Photo by Rev. Seungsoo “RJ” Jun, pastor of Leesburg United Methodist Church in Leesburg, Virginia.

Asian American clergy affirm their roles at historic gathering

The inaugural Southeastern Jurisdiction Asian American Ministers Gathering drew 111 participants from eight annual conferences and nine ethnic groups.

General Church

The Rev. Nelly W. Wright of Liberia addresses fellow members of the Standing Committee on Central Conference Matters about work to determine what in the administrative section of the Book of Discipline applies to the whole United Methodist Church and what can be adaptable. Photo by Heather Hahn, UM News.

Effort to reimagine Discipline moves forward

United Methodist leaders are evaluating what parts of the Book of Discipline can be adapted in different geographic areas and which apply worldwide. The work is heading to General Conference regardless of whether regionalization is ratified.

Annual Conferences

Bishop Tracy S. Malone surveys the results of General Conference delegates’ vote in favor of constitutional amendments to carry out the worldwide regionalization plan as she presides over a legislative session on April 25, 2024, in Charlotte, N.C. This year, annual conferences around the globe will hold votes on regionalization and three other amendments to the denomination’s constitution. File photo by Paul Jeffrey, UM News.

Church constitutional amendments head to vote

When United Methodist annual conferences meet this year, lay and clergy voters will determine whether regionalization and other changes become part of the denomination’s constitution.

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