Whereas, examination of these cases, like careful investigation of airline crashes, would have led to more changes based on realities, not just based on principles or experiences of those on the study commission, and almost certainly have led to petitions geared far more to protect pastors and churches from arbitrary and abusive administration; and
Whereas, a survey of pastors and their families showed that they have suffered financial losses in nine of the personnel cases between 1981 and 1989 estimated to be approximately $2,100,000, and in some cases the losses are still growing;
Be it resolved, that the 1996 General Conference establish an impartial panel of three members and two alternates of impeccable credibility and with competence in Church law to review any request of a pastor or surviving family member of a pastor removed from office by Church trial, by administrative action, by supervisory action, or by arbitrary action.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 22402-MN-NonDis-O$
1996 United Methodist General Conference