International - as opposed to…?

These first days there is one thing I have been thinking about: Why are we called “international delegates?” The United Methodist Church is an international church, so doesn’t that make us all international? And regardless of UMC, aren’t all modern people international?

But if we are to accept that we are “international delegates,” what about the U.S. delegates? Are they not international? It doesn’t seem like it since they are not “international delegates.” Maybe they are just national?

I don`t think “international delegates” is a good phrase to use. Why can’t I just be a Norwegian delegate? Or even just a European delegate? Unfortunately I have to admit that I do not have the answer to what phrase we should use, but what I do know is that we should stop referring to half of the General Conference as “international delegates!”

Can you tell which are international or not?


Like what you're reading? Support the ministry of UM News! Your support ensures the latest denominational news, dynamic stories and informative articles will continue to connect our global community. Make a tax-deductible donation at ResourceUMC.org/GiveUMCom.

Sign up for our newsletter!

Subscribe Now
Local Church
Hannah Buchanan. Photo courtesy of the author.

United Methodist pastor: I believe Jesus weeps with us

Hannah Buchanan, a pastor at Highland Park United Methodist Church in Dallas, writes about grief and serving in a community that has been “shaken to its core” by deadly flooding.
Faith Stories
Ophelia Hu Kinney. Photo courtesy of the author.

Affirmation at last: Remembering the Rev. Dr. Rick Huskey

The physician and justice advocate mobilized the pain of exclusion to blaze a trail for LGBTQ United Methodists.
General Church
Ben Smith. Photo courtesy of the author.

We need a new table where all are welcome

Young adult leader says United Methodist systems function to protect power, are resistant to change and preserve a table that was not built with everyone in mind.

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2025 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved