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Already, architects of the Connectional Table have withdrawn their plan to create a 15-member Center for Connectional Mission and Ministry.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
Retired Bishop Peggy A. Johnson. Photo courtesy of the author.

Remembering who we are amid US budget fight

United Methodists should remember their Wesleyan heritage and seek to defend the marginalized people being targeted in the federal budget, writes retired Bishop Peggy Johnson.
Church Leadership
Participants in the 2025 United Methodist Church Deacons Gathering sing during opening worship at the Upper Room Chapel in Nashville, Tenn. From left are the Rev. Shannon Howard, the Rev. Tina Marie Rees, the Rev. Sherry Brady and Candace Brady. A focus of the event was deacons’ new sacramental authority approved at last year’s General Conference. Photo by Mike DuBose, UM News.

Deacons explore new sacramental authority

United Methodist deacons are discussing best practices now that General Conference has approved their new responsibility to preside at baptism and communion “when contextually appropriate.”
Church Leadership
The Rev. Dr. Darryl W. Stephens. Photo by Brian Tolbert.

Deacons serve diverse, specialized roles

The role of the deacon is gaining visibility and importance, but what do we really know about this ministry?

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2025 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved