Section VIII. The Fulfillment of Ministry Through The United Methodist Church
¶ 114. Affirming the spiritual dimensions of the ministry of all Christians, as proclaimed in ¶¶ 101-113 of this Book of Discipline, it is recognized that this ministry exists in the secular world, and that civil authorities may seek legal definition predicated on the nature of The United Methodist Church in seeking fulfillment of this ministry. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the meaning of "The United Methodist Church," the "general Church," the "entire church," and "the church" as used in The Book of Discipline should now be stated consistently with the traditional self-understanding of United Methodists as to the meaning of these words.
These terms refer to the overall denomination and connectional relation and identity of its many local churches, the various conferences and their respective councils, boards, and agencies, and other church units, which collectively constitute the religious system known as United Methodism. Under the Constitution and disciplinary procedures set forth in this Book of Discipline "The United Methodist Church" as a denominational whole is not an entity, nor does it possess legal capacities and attributes. It does not and cannot hold title to property, nor does it have any officer, agent, employee, office, or location. Conferences, councils, boards, agencies, local churches, and other units bearing the name "United Methodist" are, for the most part, legal entities capable of suing and being sued and possessed of legal capacities.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
1992 Book of Discipline: ¶ 114
1996 United Methodist General Conference