General Conference

The highest legislative body of The United Methodist Church — the only body that speaks officially for the denomination.

The Voice of the Church

The General Conference is the denomination's highest legislative assembly. Meeting every four years, it brings together clergy and lay delegates from annual conferences around the world to set church policy, amend the Book of Discipline, and address critical issues facing the global United Methodist community.

No other body — not a bishop, not an agency, not an annual conference — can speak officially for the church. That authority belongs solely to the General Conference, reflecting the UMC's commitment to shared governance and the voice of the whole people of God.

At a Glance

Meets

Every four years

Most Recent

April–May 2024, Charlotte, NC

Next Session

May 2028, Minneapolis, MN

Delegates

Clergy and lay, elected by annual conferences

What General Conference Does

The legislative work of General Conference shapes every aspect of the denomination's life and witness.

Amend the Book of Discipline

The General Conference is the only body authorized to revise the Book of Discipline — the governing document that defines church law, doctrine, and organizational structure.

Set Church Policy

Delegates debate and vote on legislation affecting the worldwide church, including social positions, ministry standards, and denominational priorities.

Constitutional Amendments

Proposed constitutional changes must pass General Conference by a two-thirds majority and then be ratified by a two-thirds aggregate vote of all annual conference members.

Speak for the Church

General Conference is the only body that can speak officially for The United Methodist Church. No individual bishop, agency, or annual conference has this authority.

Questions About General Conference

Understanding the legislative process of The United Methodist Church.

Browse FAQs on Ask-the-UMC

Your Voice Matters

General Conference delegates represent every United Methodist. The decisions made there shape the future of the church worldwide.

Our Structure Council of Bishops