Whereas, the role of local and student part-time pastors is missional in nature for many congregations which would not have a pastor if it were not for these pastors; and
Whereas, local and student part-time pastors support the mission and ministry of The United Methodist Church, the same as other pastors do; and
Whereas, once a person moves from the status of lay person to local or student pastor under part-time appointment, the person no longer has a vote on any issue at annual conference;
Therefore, be it resolved that the General Conference of The United Methodist Church make appropriate amendments to the Constitution and the Book of Discipline to allow local and student pastors under part-time appointment both membership and/or vote at an annual conference either similar or identical to that of a local pastor under full-time appointment.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 22194-CO-NonDis-O
1996 United Methodist General Conference