The General Conference is an international body of nearly 1,000 delegates that generally meets every four years. The delegates are elected by annual conferences to attend General Conference. They represent all annual conferences around the world. Half of the delegates are laity (non-clergy members), half are clergy. Bishops attend the General Conference but cannot vote. During General Conference, delegates discuss and vote on petitions and resolutions proposed by individuals, agencies, annual conferences, and other groups within the denomination. These actions result in a revision of the Book of Discipline, the denomination's book of law, and Book of Resolutions, policies of the denomination on current social issues. It is at General Conference where delegates wrestle with today's issues in light of scriptural teachings and the church's understanding of that teaching. Here is where the church's official stands and church policies are made.
How will the decisions of the General Conference affect Midwest Mission?
What happens with the United Methodist Church has a trickle-down effect on Midwest Mission; however, Midwest Mission has a covenant relationship with the United Methodist Church and is not an agency of the church.
Midwest Mission has partnerships with other non-profits outside the realms of the UMC. We welcome all people who want to serve here at this ministry. In addition, we have always been adamant that gifts leaving our building be given freely.