Though it’s hard to imagine as we battle a blizzard, the 2016 Michigan Area Joint Annual Conference is just 15 Wednesdays away.
Before we know it, clergy and lay leaders from across Michigan will gather on the campus of Michigan State University for six days of unity, fellowship, worship, faith development … and to conduct a little business.
Attending the most important legislative gathering for United Methodists in Michigan is an honor and a heavy responsibility. This year, members will provide input into the complex issues involved in merging two conferences, vote on legislation that impacts their congregations and participate in the First Steps toward repentance and reconciliation with our Native American brothers and sisters.
Who gets to attend this important event?
First, it is important to recognize that The United Methodist Church is committed to providing an equal voice to both clergy and laity to help determine who we are as a denomination and where we are going as God’s people. As a result, each annual conference includes an equal number of eligible clergy and lay members.
How are these members selected?
There are a number of ways people become members to annual conference. First, all ordained elders and deacons (active and retired), as well as licensed local pastors currently serving a church are members of the annual conference according to ¶ 602 of the United Methodist Book of Discipline (BOD).
Additionally, at Church Conference each church elects one lay member to the annual conference for each clergy person appointed to their congregation. The Book of Discipline requires that the person be a professing member for at least two years and an active participant in the church for at least four years at the time of his/her election. Churches then determine whom to elect based on spiritual maturity, character and other criteria.
This equalization process is based on the total number of clergy members of the conference, many of whom (such as retirees) do not attend the session. So to ensure balance, the number is calculated of additional lay members needed to achieve balance.
These additional members, named either district at-large or equalization members, are identified in two ways. First, lay members serving in leadership positions at the conference level – on boards, councils and standing commissions among others – become members. Remaining slots are then divided among districts and election of those members takes place at district conferences held throughout the winter and spring.
What does serving as a member to Annual Conference entail?
Serving as a member to Annual Conference requires some preparation, a little prayer and a lot of participation.
Members are asked to read conference materials before they arrive so they come prepared for discussion and debate. In addition, members need to complete the registration process, select their housing and meal options and sign up for child care (if they need it).
Once on campus, members are expected to participate in four days of inspirational worship, critical learning and important administrative decisions. Members are stretched and challenged by the overwhelming press of activity. But it’s important work, and members leave inspired, energized and ready to return home to share God’s love with the world.
And Annual Conference is a lot of fun, too. This year members will honor Bishop Deb for her remarkable ministry. And they will make new connections with clergy and laity from across the entire Area while working side-by-side in partnership to serve as God’s light in a dark world.
Where can I learn more about Annual Conference?
For more information about the 2016 Michigan Area Joint Annual Conference visit the website – www.2016.michiganumc.org.
by LESLEE FRITZ, Special Contributor
Last Updated on January 11, 2023