Parlimentary gymnastics

Tampa is the most stressful city in the United States.

Action within the General Administration Committee is likely to help the city retain that ranking.
The committee will review a whopping 110 petitions — many of which seek a new structure for the 13 general agencies.

Early plans called for the committee to review proposals from the Connectional Table, a “Plan B” proposal from assorted delegates, and a plan proposed by the Methodist Federation for Social Action. After reviewing all three proposals, early plans called for a vote on which plan they would seek to perfect.

Already, architects of the Connectional Table have withdrawn their plan to create a 15-member Center for Connectional Mission and Ministry. Expect members of that group to offer a substitute motion as soon as the starting gun is fired. However, supporters of Plan B will also offer a substitute motion to begin with that proposal. MFSA may do the same.

I can imagine a parlimentary quaqmire in which substitute to the substitue motions are offered.

Say your prayers for members of that committee.


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
Social Concerns
The Rev. Keri Cress. Photo courtesy of the Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference.

Love of neighbor drives advocacy in political spaces

The Rev. Keri Cress doesn’t consider herself a political person, but she says her faith moves her to act.
Social Concerns
Cliff White. Photo courtesy of the author.

Another United Methodist way to look at high court’s voting decision

Commentary writer pushes back on United Methodist statement calling for political action over recent ruling on the Voting Rights Act.
Worship
Retired Bishop Peggy A. Johnson. Photo courtesy of the author.

Helping people ‘hear the Gospel’ in new ways

May is National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, a good time for United Methodist churches to examine ways to improve hearing accessibility.

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2026 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved