In 2021, our Annual Conference adopted a Lay Equalization Plan that helps guide the nomination and selection process for At-Large Lay Members for the NC Annual Conference. The purpose of this plan is to ensure an equal number of clergy (active & retired) and Lay Members participate in our NC Annual Conference. This plan calls for the District Superintendent, in partnership with the District Lay Leader(s), to nominate professing members from within their district as At-Large Members for participation in the NC Annual Conference meeting.
Our District Superintendents and District Lay Leader(s) started this work on March 1, 2023, and will continue throughout the month, with nominations closing on April 7. This plan is intended to bring a diversity of laity to the decision-making process. The election of At-Large Members aims to include youth, young adults, people of color, and the marginalized.
From now until April 7, 2023, our conference Board of Laity are actively receiving Lay Equalization Plan nominations. Nominations may come from pastors, congregational lay leadership, or self-nomination. You may also submit the nomination yourself if you have spoken with someone who would like to be considered.
Please share the nomination form with anyone who you believe might be interested in serving. We are asking both Pastors and Laity to help us seek, encourage, and ultimately send lay members of every age, gender, and color as we work together for our conference and the glory of our Savior.
Please note that elected lay members will be responsible for their own travel arrangements and accommodations. There is no funding available from the district or conference for travel, meals, or accommodations. College Hill Suites at East Carolina University provides affordable lodging for Lay members to Annual Conference. Visit the Annual Conference 2023 page for more information on housing.
Our deadline for nominations has been extended to April 7. You can submit more than one nomination. Remember, this is a nomination in addition to the name(s) you have already elected at your annual Charge Conference. All nominations will be reviewed by our conference Board of Laity, and all who have been nominated will be notified by April 17, 2023, as to their status – either elected or alternate.
We are seeking committed and willing hearts to serve as At-Large Members to Annual Conference. Thank you in advance for helping us to ensure that our decision-making members are as creative and diverse as the God who created us all!
John Hall, NC Conference Lay Leader