Jim LeBaron, Chair of the Michigan Conference Board of Trustees, announces that an updated Withdrawal Agreement has been posted to the Disaffiliation webpage.

JAMES LeBARON
Conference Board of Trustees, Chair

Several issues have been raised with the Conference Trustees about the Disaffiliation Process, especially relating to the proper inclusion of ¶2553. The recent Judicial Council meeting did not address this issue and, hence, created uncertainty regarding that specific disciplinary language.

However, Bishop David Bard has decided to honor both the concept of a “Gracious Exit” and to recognize the work of the Conference Board of Trustees in determining the terms and conditions for this exit.

This action should be viewed as a gracious step since it is the bishop’s decision and not a disciplinary mandate.

The Trustees have worked with the Conference Chancellor to reformat the governing document and make it compatible with whatever action the Judicial Council may take in the future. This updated Withdrawal Agreement is now posted on the conference website and can be accessed here.

The explanations and FAQs are still valid so please refer to them for clarification.

Those with questions should contact their District Superintendent for both directions and fulfillment steps.

~ Based on legislation passed at the 2019 General Conference, on July 15, 2019, the Conference Trustees offered terms and conditions for disaffiliation. Following the initial news about voting irregularity, Bishop Bard shared his clarification. 

Last Updated on November 1, 2023