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Structure

Delegates consider legislation during the 2016 United Methodist General Conference in Portland, Ore. In 2020, the faces at General Conference may change, but the numbers will likely be the same. Photo by Mike DuBose, UMNS.

Our Structure

The United Methodist Church does not have a central headquarters or a single executive leader. Duties are divided among bodies that include the General Conference, the Council of Bishops and the Judicial Council. 

These entities are required by our Constitution to be part of our structure. Each plays a significant role in the life of the church.

General Conference delegates in session.
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Who We Are

What is... the General Conference?

What is the general Conference and what does it do? Watch this quick overview of the General Conference and find out how it serves the United Methodist Church.

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Pictured: 2016-2020 Judicial Council. (Not pictured: Beth Capen)
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Who We Are

What is the Judicial Council?

Get to know the Judicial Council of The United Methodist Church and find out a little about what they do.

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General Conference

  • Historic record contains the minutes of an early conference of Methodist preachers. Photo by Kathleen Barry, United Methodist Communications. #UMCGC

    Who We Are

    Why United Methodist General Conference? History and highlights
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  • United Methodists celebrate our unity in the midst of our disagreements. Photo by Paul Jeffrey, United Methodist Communications.

    Who We Are

    What happened and what didn't at General Conference 2019
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Council of Bishops

Judicial Council

  • Press Center

    Council of Bishops Affirms Connectional Table's Work on U.S. Structure
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  • An animated feature has John and Charles talking about singing in church. The Wesleys Take the Web is produced by United Methodist Communications.

    Who We Are

    Wesleys Take the Web: Directions for Singing
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