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Voters at the 35th General Synod have rejected a proposed revision to the UCC Constitution and Bylaws. The change would have allowed the General Minister and President to appoint Associate General Ministers, rather than having them elected by Synod. The proposal was defeated with 407 votes against, 241 in favor, and 34 abstentions. Approval required a two-thirds majority from Synod voters and subsequent ratification by two-thirds of the Conferences.
During a 45-minute debate, several speakers expressed concerns about consolidating power. Rev. Carly Stucklen Sather of the Illinois Conference said, “We are being asked to cede our authority to elect Associate General Ministers.” Rev. Bobby Burtt of the Heartland Conference questioned how they could justify consolidating power when similar actions are criticized in government.
Rev. John Dorhauer, immediate past General Minister and President, opposed comparisons to current government practices, expressing confidence in the UCC Board's ability to hold future leaders accountable. Rev. D’Angelo Smith also voiced frustration over trust issues raised during discussions.
The proposed change was intended as part of ongoing restructuring towards unified governance within the national setting. Currently, Associate General Ministers' roles are assigned by the General Minister and President (GMP) and confirmed by the UCC Board.
Rev. Madison Shockley argued that this change reflects organizational realities rather than a consolidation of power. Esperanaza de Jesus Bowles commented on redundancy in voting for an already vetted candidate like Shari Prestemon as Associate General Minister.
Rev. Martha Boyer highlighted satisfaction with Prestemon’s election process due to its transparency and accountability measures.
While some supported comparing church operations to corporate models where executives choose their teams, others disagreed with this approach. Edith Guffey emphasized that shared power is a core value of their covenantal church structure.
Rev. John Fiscus stressed maintaining pastoral authority aligned with church beliefs while Dale Mease advocated for agility in leadership decisions given extended intervals between Synod meetings.
Delegates approved two other bylaw changes without debate regarding terms for Directors on various boards following adjustments made at previous Synods concerning meeting frequency changes from every two years to three years.
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