Air travel photo courtesy of Gerrie van der Walt on Unsplash.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Commission on the General Conference is aware of the June 4, 2025 executive order that suspended entry to citizens of some countries into the United States. Recognizing that the bans may potentially impact delegate travel to the 2028 General Conference, the Commission is closely monitoring the situation.
During their spring meeting, the Commission proactively formed a task team to explore alternative options to facilitate full participation in the 2028 General Conference session. The task team's members will include representatives from the Commission, the Council of Bishops and Global Ministries to ensure representation of the breadth of the Church in this vital work. Additionally, the Commission's Connectional Relations committee, predominantly composed of members from Central Conferences, has been meeting regularly to offer recommendations that address cultural needs and sensitivities, thereby enhancing the experience of General Conference for all delegates.
The Secretary of the General Conference, Rev. Dr. Aleze Fulbright expressed that she is “hopeful for the conversations of the task team, and the outcomes that could further inform our upcoming General Conference in light of the changing landscape of convening the worldwide meeting.”
The Commission based its decision to host the 2028 General Conference in the United States on several factors, including concerns about travel. The decision also reflects current financial realities and the abbreviated timeframe available for planning and executing a successful General Conference. While concerns about travel restrictions persist, the safety and full participation of every delegate to General Conference remain the Commission’s highest priorities.
“While we cannot speculate on the full impact or longevity of the travel bans nor predict future actions, it has become increasingly clear that it is in the best interest of The United Methodist Church to hold General Conference outside of the United States as soon as possible," said Rev. Andy Call, Commission chair. "But this requires careful and thoughtful planning. Changing the location reactively without adequate time to prepare can have unintended consequences detrimental to the Church and its faithful members. As noted in our May announcement, we are committed to exploring every possibility for 2032.”
Call added that “The Commission welcomes your prayers and continued support as we navigate the various complexities of the current times. In our efforts to provide transparency in the process, members can expect periodic updates."
General Conference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodist Church, which meets once every four years. The conference can revise church law, as well as adopt resolutions on current moral, social, public policy and economic issues. It also approves plans and budgets for church-wide programs.
The United Methodist Church is a worldwide connection of close to 10 million members in over 100 countries, with a presence in Africa, Asia, Europe and the United States. United Methodists are people of God who share a common mission and values. The church and its members are called to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. We reach out to a hurting world through a dedicated focus on mission and ministry. Our tagline "Open hearts. Open minds. Open doors." reflects who we are and how we seek to put our faith into action. Learn more at umc.org.
Brenda Smotherman is a public information officer for United Methodist Communications.