Thousands of United Methodists are gathering in Charlotte, North Carolina, for their big denominational meeting, known as General Conference.
It’s a much-anticipated gathering. Typically it is held every four years, but church leaders delayed the 2020 gathering until now due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This year, the 11-day gathering runs from April 23 to May 3. Among those assembling are hundreds of voting delegates — the United Methodists from across the globe who were elected to represent their regional church body — though as many as one-quarter of international delegates are not confirmed as able to attend. The delegates, half clergy and half lay Methodists, are the decision makers at General Conference.
General Conference — the only entity that can speak for the entire denomination — is a business meeting where delegates set policy, pass budgets and address other church-wide matters. It’s the only body that can amend the United Methodist Book of Discipline, which includes church law. It also includes Social Principles, which are non-binding declarations on social and ethical issues. There’s worship and fellowship, too.
Heartbreaking pictures show 24
A Couple's Efforts to Conduct Patriotic Education Among Children
Chinese Woman Inspires Generations with Revolutionary Stories
Promoting Greater Understanding of TCM Culture in France
Original Karma singer Brit Smith says JoJo Siwa 'has done nothing wrong' after re
Promoting Greater Understanding of TCM Culture in France
Proud to Witness China's Development
Chinese Woman Inspires Generations with Revolutionary Stories
Richmond Mayor Stoney drops Virginia governor bid, he will run for lieutenant governor instead
Seedling Breeder Helps Farmers Attain Wealth by Developing Vegetable Cooperative
UEFA picks two video review referees at center of controversy for Euro 2024 duty
Demonstrating Medical Ethics During Medical