Annual Conference Report

The United Methodist Church is connectional in nature; focusing ministry efforts not only on the local church, but helping the local church realize and participate fully in the ministry opportunities beyond its own community. But how does the local church stay . . . connected?

One way is through the efforts of the Lay Member to the Annual Conference. Each year, the Northern Illinois Conference of the United Methodist Church holds its annual conference.  The purpose of the annual conference is "to make disciples for Jesus Christ by equipping its local churches for ministry and by providing a connection for ministry beyond the local church; all to the glory of God." (The Book of Discipline Para. 601). It"s the responsibility of the Lay Member of Annual Conference to:
1. Interpret the actions and decisions of the annual conference session, and report back to the local church council, and
2. To serve on the staff-parish relations committee, financial resources ministry committee and the leadership council.

The Lay Member prepares for the Annual Conference by studying pre-conference briefing materials, being familiar with the rules and processes outlined in The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church, and, above all, being informed on the issues, concerns and visions of his/her local congregation as well as the conference at large. The Lay Member is a chief communicator . . . a liaison, if you will . . . between The United Methodist Church and the local community of faith where he/she worships, serves and expresses the commitment of making disciples of all nations.