Our 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.

(From left) Bishops Hope Morgan Ward, Hee-Soo Jung, and John Yambasu shout, "Go" following the end of the commissioning of missionaries at the May 19 United Methodist General Conference in Portland, Ore.

Bishops of The United Methodist Church provide spiritual leadership to almost 12 million persons in a broad range of settings on four continents, including North America, Europe, Africa and Asia.

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Postponed 2020 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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