Constitutional amendments verified

The UM Council of Bishops has certified four constitutional amendments approved by the 2012 General Conference.

On Nov. 4 in Oklahoma City, the Council announced the items did receive the required two-thirds affirmative vote by all annual conferences.

There is variation worldwide in conferences’ meeting schedules, so vote reporting takes some time. In May 2013, the Oklahoma Annual Conference gave overwhelming approval to the changes.

Here is a summary for each amendment.

1. Adds the word "pray" before "seek and work for unity," about ecumenical relations. Total vote: yes 42,816 – no 1,158. (Okla Conf vote: 523–5)
2. Removes the requirement that General Conference must be held in April or May. Total vote: yes 41,684 – no 1,991. (Okla: 512-14)
3. Changes "Lay Speaking Ministries" to "Lay Servant Ministries." Total vote: yes 41,223 – no 2,324. (Okla: 511-15)
4. Gives authority for boundary decisions to jurisdictional and central conferences, whose delegates include laypersons. Total vote: yes 41,176 – no 1,920. (Okla: 508-18)

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