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Watch this quick overview of the General Conference and find out how it serves the United Methodist Church. The United Methodist Church does not have a single leader, but is governed by a structure that values both clergy and lay leadership.
The Methodist Church is still organised in a methodical way using many of the structures introduced by its founder, John Wesley. However, the Church is quite pragmatic, and is willing to make changes where they seem desirable.
United Methodist leaders often speak of the denomination as "the connection." This concept has been central to Methodism from its beginning. The United Methodist structure and organization began as a means of accomplishing the mission of spreading scriptural holiness.
History – Methodism began with two brothers, John and Charles Wesley. During their time at Oxford University in England in the 18th Century, the Wesley brothers came together with other students to form a group that focused on a more methodical study of scripture and holy living.
Structure The Church Council is the administrative agency of the charge conference to envision, plan, implement, and annually evaluate the ministry of the congregation. Members of the church council shall be involved in the mission and ministry of the church: nurture, outreach, and witness. All persons with vote shall be members of the local church
Use this graphic to teach local church leaders and members about the organization of their denomination and the unique roles and responsibilities of each body/entity. Download free infographic. The United Methodist Church is a connectional denomination made up of many parts.
The United Methodist Church has a connectional polity, a typical feature of a number of Methodist denominations. It is organized into conferences. The highest level is called the General Conference and is the only organization which may speak officially for the UMC.
