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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.

Bishops lead the processional for opening worship at the 2016 United Methodist General Conference in Portland, Ore.
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Structure

Council of Bishops

The Council of Bishops plays an important leadership role in helping to set the direction of the church and its mission throughout the world.

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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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Council of Bishops

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  • COB President Bishop Thomas J. Bickerton offers the opening prayer at the start of the special called meeting of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church on Thursday, May 12, 2022. Image provided by the Council of Bishops.

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    Bishops seek ruling on application and meaning on Paragraph 2548.2
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  • Decision image provided by the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church.

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    COB welcomes decision that annual conferences may not vote to leave UMC
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  • Council of Bishops screenshot

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    Bishops discern ways for churches choosing to separate and seek court's guidance
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  • Image courtesy of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church.

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    Bishops seek ruling on whether an annual conference can leave UMC
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General Conference

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  • Council of Bishops logo, rectangular (1935x1290)

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    Bishops call Special Session of General Conference, create timeline for moving forward
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  • Commission on General Conference of The United Methodist Church's logo.

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    General Conference Commission Names Study Team
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Judicial Council

Visit Judicial Council Site
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