Andy Vorbrich and Rev. Paul Perez were elected as members of The United Methodist Church’s Judicial Council at the 2024 General Conference.
In a significant development at the 2024 General Conference, delegates reshaped the landscape of The United Methodist Church’s Judicial Council, the ecclesiastical body tasked with interpreting church law and adjudicating disputes. On Wednesday, May 1, General Conference delegates elected all new members — four lay members and five clergy members, including alternates. Andrew Vorbrich, Chancellor of the Michigan Conference, was elected to a four-year term. Among the alternates elected was Rev. Paul Perez, Lead Minister of Detroit: Central UMC.
Established to ensure constitutional adherence to church laws and procedures, the Judicial Council plays a pivotal role in upholding the denomination’s principles. Andrew Vorbrich, in addition to his role as chancellor, practices law at Kalamazoo’s Lennon Miller firm and is an active member of Kalamazoo: First UMC. He also serves as president of the United Methodist Church Conference Chancellors Association.
“I am excited to serve the church in this new capacity,” said Vorbrich, “and look forward to continuing to grow in my faith as I join the Judicial Council. I had the support of many people from around the world, and I’m grateful for that.”
An Ordained Deacon, Rev. Paul Perez has worn multiple hats in Michigan’s United Methodist community. He currently serves as the Lead Pastor of Detroit Central UMC and Co-Chair of the Michigan Conference’s General Conference Delegation. His extensive experience includes a tenure as the past Director of Connectional Ministries for the Michigan Conference.
Amid ongoing debates, particularly surrounding issues of human sexuality and LGBTQ inclusion, the Judicial Council faces mounting pressure to navigate sensitive matters of church governance and doctrine. As divisions within The United Methodist Church deepen and external pressures persist, the Judicial Council’s rulings carry profound implications, shaping the trajectory of one of the world’s largest Protestant denominations.
Last Updated on May 2, 2024