WASHINGTON, D. C. The Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church has completed canvassing the votes of annual conferences on the four constitutional amendments that were approved by the 2024 General Conference.
By The Book of Discipline (BOD) any proposed constitutional amendments require ratification by annual conferences. The results are canvassed, certified and announced by the Council of Bishops.
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1 Regionalization
A set of amendments to create new regional conferences that will each have equal power to adapt portions of the BOD within their respective regions.
2. Inclusiveness of the Church
An amendment to add the words “gender” and “ability” to Paragraph 4, Article 4 of The UMC Constitution to categories that cannot be used to exclude membership in The United Methodist Church.
3. Racial Justice
An amendment to strengthen Article V of The UMC Constitution by explicitly recognizing the church’s role in combating racism, racial inequity, colonialism, white privilege, and white supremacy.
4. Educational Requirements for Clergy
General Conference voted to amend Section VI, Article IV of The United Methodist Church Constitution, which establishes the educational requirements for clergy members of annual or provisional conferences who are eligible to vote for clergy delegates to the General Conference.
With today's announcement of the annual conferences votes, the four amendments which garnered more than the required two-thirds majority become effective immediately.
"The ratification and certification of these constitutional amendments mark a defining moment in the continuing renewal and unity of The United Methodist Church. These amendments reflect the church’s rich diversity and deep commitment to live more fully into our shared mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world and strengthens our world-wide connection to serve faithfully and inclusively in every context," said Bishop Tracy S. Malone, President of the Council of Bishops.
Bishop David Wilson of the Great Plains Conference said he was pleased all of the amendments had passed.
"This has been a rather long process for the Church, and we are now ready to move forward with these changes to help us be an even more effective denomination," he said. "I am thankful for the many in the Great Plains conference who have worked diligently on this
"A new day is before us in this denomination, and I know the Holy Spirit will continue to be ever present with us all for our future," the bishop added.