Pre-General Conference Video Resources

General Conference is a combination of legislative assembly, worship experiences and fellowship gathering. The Rev. Gary Graves, secretary of the Commission on General Conference, gives an overview of how the process works. Joining him in the conversation are the Rev. Abigail Parker Herrera and Brian Sigmon.

General Conference operates using Robert’s Rules of Order, which can often be confusing. General Conference parliamentarian Maurice Henderson sheds light on what parliamentary procedure is, how it works and why the church uses it.

General Conference lasts almost two weeks, with days that can begin as early as 6 a.m. and run late into the evening. General Conference business manager Sara Hotchkiss and the Rev. Ken Nelson, clergy delegate and conference secretary for the South Carolina Conference, share practical tips on how to survive and thrive at the event.

The Rev. Scott Hughes, the Rev. Karin Walker and Micheal Pope examine how United Methodist theology provides a grounding for maintaining a spirit of respect and learning as delegates consider issues with passionate opinions on both sides.

Dawn Wiggins Hare, top executive of the Commission on the Status and Role of Women, talks about the agency’s role in the church and several pieces of legislation dealing with gender equality.

Sally Vonner, top executive of United Women in Faith, talks about the agency’s role in the church, several pieces of legislation dealing with women’s inclusion, and the importance of protecting voting rights.

Bishop James Swanson, interim top executive of United Methodist Men, talks about the agency’s role in the church and several pieces of legislation they have submitted.

John Hill, interim top executive of the United Methodist Board of Church and Society, discusses proposals that the agency is focusing on in Charlotte.

The top executive of the Commission on Religion and Race, the Rev. Giovanni Arroyo talks about the agency’s role in the church and several pieces of legislation dealing with racial inclusion.

Andrew Hendren, top executive of Wespath Benefits and Investments, talks about the agency’s proposal to make the church’s clergy benefit plans and commitment to investments that protect the environment and human rights.

Judi Kenaston, chief connectional ministries officer for the Connectional Table, looks at various plans for regionalization and how the submitted budget is prepared.

Members of the Standing Committee on Central Conference Matters, the Connectional Table and Heather Hahn of UM News address issues surrounding regionalization proposals.

Executives from the Commission on Religion and Race and Board of Church and Society as well as Sam Hodges of UM News discuss proposals related to the church’s work in the world.

Leaders of The United Methodist Church’s national ministry plans discuss the important work of ministering in different cultural contexts.

Rick King, chief financial officer of the General Council on Finance and Administration, talks about the agency’s role in helping prepare the general church budget and several pieces of legislation that relate to the budget.

One of the primary duties for every General Conference is to review and adopt a budget for the next four years. Executives from the Council on Finance and Administration discuss that process.

The Rev. Taylor Burton Edwards, director of Ask The UMC, looks at proposals affecting both clergy and lay leadership. Topics include pensions and benefits, youth leadership initiatives, and the education and formation of clergy.

Bishop Thomas Bickerton, Council of Bishops president, provides perspective as the long-delayed General Conference finally draws near.