Survey for Clergy and Lay Members to Annual Conference
As you know, the 2020 Annual Conference Session is currently scheduled for August 14-15 in Tifton. While we are hopeful we can meet in person, the Annual Conference planning team is making contingency plans in the event it is still not safe or possible to meet together in a large group setting due to COVID-19.
As we consider these plans, one scenario is a virtual conference. In consultation with our conference chancellors, we are aware that our standing rules do not address whether we may hold a virtual conference. In order to host a meeting that complies with our Annual Conference rules and meets state guidelines, we would need to vote to change our standing rules to allow for a virtual conference. Each voting member of the Annual Conference will receive a paper ballot sometime in the month of June. This vote would allow conference leadership to make the necessary decisions should a virtual conference be necessary.
A lot of thought and care is going into what a possible virtual Annual Conference would look like. The Bishop is speaking with various stakeholders - those being commissioned and ordained, retirees, memoir committee, etc. - to make sure all are being heard and cared for. We are making every effort to continue and strengthen our shared ministry while protecting the health and well-being of all based on information that is rapidly changing.
Please complete the survey using the link below by June 5 in order to help us make the best decisions for the safety of our clergy and lay members of the Annual Conference. A decision will be announced by the end of June. We appreciate and value your feedback.
Dr. Nita Crump, Conference Secretary
