General Conference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodist Church. The assembly meets at the beginning of each quadrennium to consider revisions to church law, as well as adopt resolutions on current moral, social, public policy and economic issues. It also approves plans and budgets for church-wide programs for the next four years.
An Update from the St. Andrew's General Conference Task Force
As you may have heard, there are discussions and a 'Protocol of Reconciliation' for churches that wish to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church organization. The leadership at St. Andrew's is watching the issue closely and listening to all communication from our Bishop and the larger international United Methodist organization. There will be more specific information provided to you in the future, but we want to ensure that you understand the basics now. Below is a list of frequently asked questions to help you stay informed and dispel any misinformation.
+ What does St. Andrew’s plan to do regarding this situation?
Our church will not make any decisions until after the 2024 General Conference, scheduled for April 23 – May 3, 2024. We see no reason to move away from this strategy.
+ Why do churches want to disaffiliate and leave the United Methodist Church?
Many churches have a different view of the direction of the UMC.
+ Does St. Andrew's need to make any decisions now?
No. The current deadline for churches to decide is Dec. 31, 2023, and we have been given assurances by the Conference that there will be future options for churches who wish to disaffiliate.
+ Has the General Conference made any decisions yet?
No. Proposals have been made but cannot be decided upon until the meeting in 2024. Until then, nothing will change; thus there is really no reason to make a decision now because the terms of the agreement and the alternatives available for churches will change as a result of the 2024 Conference. We feel it is wise to wait and see what the options will be.
+ Has the 2024 General Conference been delayed again?
No. The General Conference remains scheduled for April 23 – May 3, 2024 in Charlotte, NC.
We will continue to keep you updated on the situation. If you have any questions, please contact us using the info below.
Alan Chastain, Church Council Chair | alan@akchastain.com
Gary Rideout, Co-Senior Pastor | gary.rideout@saumc.net
Jayne Rideout, Co-Senior Pastor | jayne.rideout@saumc.net