What is the “Protocol”?

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, General Conference was delayed from May of 2020 to August and September of 2021. It was postponed again until August 29 – September 6, 2022 and now postponed until 2024. This General Conference of the United Methodist Church is expected to consider the adoption of the Protocol for Reconciliation and Grace through Separation, which would create a method for local churches (and even a few Annual Conferences) to leave The United Methodist Church and form other Methodist denominations.

Understanding the Protocol, what is going to be considered at General Conference of 2024, what this might mean for North Alabama, and the need to advocate for our North Alabama Conference to stay in The United Methodist Church, can be confusing.

An excellent video with a brief yet comprehensive explanation of the Protocol which is going to be considered at General Conference is found below. It is explained by Tom Berlin, one of the writers of the Protocol. We strongly recommend this video is used for individuals and small groups to explain the Protocol and prepare.

Additionally, with the delay of General Conference until 2024, you may also wish to watch this video of Tom Berlin explaining the delay and the ramifications of that delay.