Employment Status of Clergy.----Ministry in the Christian Church is derived from the ministry of Christ (¶ 401). Jesus makes it clear to us that he is a shepherd and not a hireling (John 10:11-15). Similarly, United Methodist pastors appointed to local churches are not employees of those churches. It is recognized that for certain limited purposes, such as taxation, benefits, insurance, governments and other entities may classify clergy as employees. Such classifications are not to be construed as affecting or defining United Methodist polity, including the historic covenants that bind annual conferences, clergy and congregations, episcopal appointive powers and procedures, or other principles set forth in the Constitution or The Book of Discipline (see e.g., ¶¶ 401; 422-423; 437; 439). In addition, any such classifications should be accepted only for limited purposes, as set forth above, and with the full recognition and acknowledgement that it is the responsibility of the clergy to be God's servants.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 21595-LC-114-D
1996 United Methodist General Conference