Quick and Easy Guide to United Methodist Polity

With more than 250 entries, this book is a comprehensive, annotated guide to the United Methodist Discipline for pastors and church leaders, district superintendents, bishops, agency staff, and others beyond the local church who need a quick reference guide to issues that arise in ministry. Polity is about ordering the life of the church for the mission of God in the world and how we anchor our understanding of how God is calling us to covenant with each other. Each entry a quote from John Wesley or another notable Methodist; related Discipline paragraph numbers; definition and how each entry relates to pastors and leaders; notes on historical and theological roots. Entries Apportionments (what they do, the "formula") Baptism Confirmation Connectional Table Constitution of The United Methodist Church Cross and Flame - UM Insignia, Use and Limits Designated Giving and Funds Equitable Compensation Evangelism Fellowship of Associate Members and Local Pastors General Council on Finance and Administration Historic Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU's) Housing Allowance (For Pastors) Lay Delegate to General Conference, Jurisdiction, and Central Conferences Liturgical Seasons See Christian Year Membership Records and Removal Merger with Another Church Offering Orders Ordination Pan-Methodist Commission Pastor's Compensation and Benefits Pastor/Staff Parish Relations Committee Property Taxes Quorum for Meetings Restrictive Rules Safe Sanctuaries Special Sundays and Offerings Tax Exempt Status Tithe/Tithing Trust Clause United Methodist Women Ushers Vacation Bible School

Anne L. Burkholder is Associate Dean of Methodist Studies and Professor in the Practice of Ecclesiology at Candler School of Theology, Emory University.

Thomas W. Elliott Jr. is Assistant Professor in the Practice of Practical Theology, Director of Contextual Education II, Teaching Parish, and Ministry Internships at Candler School of Theology, Emory University.