news article
Applications still being received for lay equalization members to Annual Conference
March 23, 2018 / By UNY Communications
Applications are still being accepted for individuals desiring to serve as a lay equalization member to the 2018 session of the Upper New York Annual Conference. Lay equalization members must be professing members of a United Methodist Church within the Upper New York area. The deadline for all applications is April 29, 2018.
Upper New York rules regarding lay equalization members state that after lay persons by virtue of office as identified by the Book of Discipline are in positions of leadership within the Annual Conference, they are granted lay equalization membership. Any remaining lay equalization memberships will be divided as equally as possible among the respective Districts of the Annual Conference. These equalization memberships will be awarded by the respective District Lay Leader(s) in consultation with organizations within the District. Attention should be given to underrepresented churches on multi-point charges, to persons who are able to bring wisdom and experience of value to the Annual Conference, and to the guidelines for inclusivity found in paragraph 140 of the 2016 Book of Discipline.
In attempt to provide equitable representation, the Upper New York Sessions Committee has implemented a process that gives opportunity for as many congregations as possible to have a Lay Equalization Member. To accomplish this goal, no more than one Lay Equalization Member from a congregation will be awarded until it is determined that every congregation has had an opportunity for one lay equalization member. Once this guarantee has been provided and prior to the deadline for lay equalization membership, District Lay Leaders may offer additional lay equalization membership to individuals from congregations that have already been awarded a lay equalization member.
Youth and young adults are exempt from this process. To encourage participation in the session of annual conference, in consultation with the District Lay Leader(s) and organizations within the District, more than one youth and/or young adult from a pastoral charge can serve as a lay equalization member.
If you have questions about this process or desire an application, please contact your District office or your pastor.