The Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church has completed canvassing the votes of annual conferences on the four constitutional amendments that were approved by the 2024 General Conference.
With today’s announcement of the annual conferences votes, the four amendments which garnered more than the required two-thirds majority become effective immediately.
Talking Points & Resources
- NC Conference Videos and Resources
- Printable Fact Sheet on Ratified Amendments
- Printable Fact Sheet on Regionalization
- ResourceUMC.org/amendments
- Read the press release
- Read the article on umnews.org
Response from NC Conference Leaders
Leaders in the North Carolina Conference responded to the announcement.
“I celebrate the passing of Ballot #1 on Regionalization, which is a huge step forward on the long journey toward righting historical wrongs,” said Caleb Parker, a lay delegate. “As this enables each region to do ministry in its own context, my challenge to us is to focus on marginalized voices in the creation of the US Region in continuation of reconciliation work. How do we center People of Color, persons living with disabilities, LGBTQ+ folks, people unhoused and those living in poverty, and especially those of multiple intersecting identities, and all the while maintaining a healthy United Methodist identity with regions around the world? I look forward to this journey together.”
In responding to the ratification of ballot #2, the chairperson of the NC Conference Commission on the Status and Role of Women, Rev. Tobi Nguyen, said, “I’m thrilled that The United Methodist Church has ratified constitutional amendments adding ‘gender’ and ‘ability’ to our protected categories for inclusion, ensuring that no one can be excluded from membership based on these identities. This historic change reflects our commitment to embodying the Gospel truth that all people are welcome in God’s family.”
Rev. Ismael Ruiz-Millán, Executive Director of Connectional Ministries, said, “I am deeply grateful that we, as The United Methodist Church, have affirmed the passage of Ballot #3, committing our church constitution to confront racism, racial inequity, colonialism, white privilege, and white supremacy. May this milestone move us from words to action, inspire courageous transformation in every congregation, and renew our shared call to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously as we walk together toward true healing to all people.”
“Today I celebrate the ratification of Ballot 4, which strengthens our shared commitment to theological excellence while honoring the diverse contexts of our worldwide church,” said Rev. Amie Stewart. “We affirm both our denominational standards and the vital principle of contextualization. We move forward with clarity, unity, and confidence in the leaders who will shape our future.”