Lay members play a key role in linking the mission and vision of the local congregation with the mission and vision of the Annual Conference. One of the many ways that the laity can actively participate in the life and work of our conference is through attending our annual conference meeting June 18-20, 2026, at the Greenville Convention Center. 

In 2021, our annual conference adopted a Lay Equalization Plan that helps guide the nomination and selection process for At-Large Lay Members to our Annual Conference. The purpose of this plan is to ensure an equal number of clergy (active & retired) and lay members participate and vote 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. Watch this short video for a complete overview of the plan and what it means to serve as an LEP member.

From now until March 28, we are actively receiving lay equalization plan nominations. Nominees 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.

You can absolutely 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 12, 2026, as to their status – either elected or alternate.

Please submit all nominations by 11:59 pm on March 28.

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 ethnicity to Annual Conference 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 very affordable lodging for lay members to Annual Conference. Housing information and latest updates are available on the Annual Conference 2026 website.

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