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
Mission and Ministry
The Rev. Paul W. Chilcote. Photo courtesy of the author.

A refreshed Wesleyan vision is emerging

As it moves past a divisive time, The United Methodist Church can experience renewal by embracing the values laid out by John and Charles Wesley.
Social Concerns
The Rev. April Casperson. Courtesy of Otterbein University.

Amendment would make church more open

The United Methodist Church can be a more welcoming denomination by adding gender and ability to its constitution, clergywoman writes.
Theology and Education
Graphic by Taylor W Burton Edwards based on The 2020/2024 Book of Discipline, Copyright 2024, United Methodist Publishing House. Used by permission.

Ask The UMC: Part 1, Local churches, annual conferences, and general agencies

Some are smaller, and some are bigger, but changes have come in the 2020/2024 Book of Discipline for local churches, annual conferences, and general agencies.

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2025 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved