Proposed amendment rejected by delegates

Adam Hamilton proposed an amendment intended to replace the last paragraph of Paragraph 161.F of the Book of Discipline. Co-authored by Mike Slaughter, the statement declared that “We commit to disagree and respect with love, we commit to love all persons and. above all, we pledge to seek God’s will With regard to homosexuality, as with so many other issues, United Methodists adopt the attitude of John Wesley who once said, ‘Though we cannot think alike, may we not love alike? May we not be of one heart, though we are not of one opinion? Without all doubt, we may.'”

After extensive discussion the proposal was turned down by a tally of 439 in favor and 513 opposed.


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
Bishop Tracy S. Malone surveys the results of a delegate vote in favor of a worldwide regionalization plan as she presides over a legislative session of the 2024 United Methodist General Conference in Charlotte, N.C., on April 25, 2024. The Council of Bishops announced Nov. 5 that annual conference lay and clergy voters have ratified regionalization. File photo by Paul Jeffrey, UM News.

New United Methodist Church structure ratified

United Methodist voters around the globe have ratified worldwide regionalization — a package of constitutional amendments aiming to put the denomination’s different geographical regions on equal footing.
General Church
West Ohio delegates raise their arms in praise during morning worship at the 2024 United Methodist General Conference in Charlotte, N.C. From right are the Revs. April Casperson and Dee Stickley-Miner and Tracy Chambers. On Nov. 5, the Council of Bishops announced annual conference voters ratified four ballots of constitutional amendments passed at General Conference. In addition to regionalization, the ratified amendments deal with inclusion in church membership, racial justice and educational requirements for clergy. Casperson helped lead the task force that championed the passage of the amendment on inclusiveness. File photo by Mike DuBose, UM News.

Church strengthens stands on inclusion, racism

In addition to regionalization, United Methodist voters ratified three other amendments to the denomination’s constitution including changes that make clear the church’s belief that God’s love is for all people.

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2025 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved