General Conference votes initial approval of “Plan UMC”

After a morning of debate and significant amendment, the compromise restructuring plan known as “Plan UMC” was initially approved by the delegates. A tally of 567 to 384 set in place a revised organizational plan for the denomination. The financial implications of the decision will be reviewed by the General Council on Finance and Administration, which will report back to the body.

Bishops Michael Watson and Janice Riggle Huie presided over the deliberations.

(Hear one delegate summarize support for the new structural plan and Bishop Huie offer a prayer before the final vote after which she announced the result.)