Janelle Jones, laity Spearfish UMC, reflects on the work of General Conference. Jones was a delegate to the 2012 General Conference and an alternate delegate to the 2008 General Confrence.

Photo: Janelle Jones (left), 2012 lay delegate and Rebecca Trefz, 2012 clergy delegate on the floor of the 2012 General Conference in Tampa. File photo.

I recall the first week of General Conference as very intense. Each committee has many petitions and resolutions to study and discuss. Some are brought forward and may become part of the Book of Discipline or Book of Resolutions. One example of action brought forth by laity was changing from 4 to 5 parts of our membership vows: prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. Had you noticed that witness is not printed in our current hymnal?

When I was a reserve delegate in 2008, I could only observe the process of committee work. As a delegate in 2012, I participated to discern the direction and focus of specific legislation. Now picture this complex work being done using numerous languages and the need for interpreters.

May our prayers be with all bishops, delegates, and many others as decisions are made relative to The United Methodist Church making disciples of Jesus Christ.