Judicial Council to hear episcopal fund issue

The Council of Bishops requested a declaratory decision from the United Methodist Judicial Council on the constitutionality of Calendar Item 479, which relates to the episcopal fund.

The council will have an oral hearing at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, May 3, in Meeting Room 11 of the Marriott Waterside Hotel.

Anyone wanting to submit briefs or materials related to this matter should submit 13 copies no later than 8:30 a.m., May 3, to Sally Curtis Askew, clerk of the Judicial Council. They may be taken to Meeting Room 11 Thursday morning or left at the desk of the Marriott Waterside Hotel for her before that time.


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
General Church
Andrew “Andy” Q. Hendren. Photo courtesy of Wespath.

Compass provides sustainable retirement plan for clergy

Plan honors church’s commitment to providing income for clergy throughout retirement while also being more affordable for the church.
Faith Stories
The Rev. Øyvind Helliesen, a member of The United Methodist Church’s top court since 2016, died Nov. 25, 2025. At the time of his death, he was the Judicial Council’s vice president. Photo by Kristine Helliesen.

Øyvind Helliesen mourned as ‘sage’ amid tumult

The Rev. Øyvind Helliesen served on The United Methodist Church’s top court — providing crucial guidance to the denomination in a time of division and disaffiliations. He died at age 69.
Global Health
The Rev. Dr. Don Messer. Photo by David Stucke, Dakotas Conference.

On World AIDS Day, church called to bold action

With the dismantling of so much life-saving U.S. international aid, the Rev. Dr. Donald W. Messer writes The United Methodist Church needs to step up in its longtime commitment to combat HIV.

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2025 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved