450. Maternity/Paternity Leave--Maternity/paternity leave not to exceed one-fourth of a year will be available and shall be granted by the bishop and the Cabinet and the executive committee of the board of ordained ministry to any probationary member, associate member, or ordained minister in full connection who so requests it at the birth or arrival of a child into the home for purposes of adoption.
1. Persons desiring maternity/paternity leave should file their request with the committee on pastor-parish relations after consulting with the district superintendent at least ninety (90) days prior to its beginning to allow adequate pastoral care for the churches involved to be developed.
2. During the leave, the ordained minister's annual conference relations will remain unchanged, and the insurance plans will remain in force.
3. A maternity/paternity leave of up to one quarter of a year will be considered as an uninterrupted appointment for pension purposes.
4. The ordained minister's compensation will be maintained for no less than the first eight weeks of leave.
5. During the leave time pastoral responsibility for the church or churches involved will be handled through consultation with the committee on pastor-parish relations of the local church(es) and the district superintendent.
6. Special arrangements shall be made for district superintendents, bishops, and those under special appointment.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
1992 Book of Discipline: ¶ 450
1996 United Methodist General Conference