In 2021, our Annual Conference adopted a Lay Equalization Plan (LEP) that helps guide the nomination and selection process for at-large lay members to our Annual Conference. The purpose of this plan is to ensure an equal number of clergy (active & retired) and lay members participate in our NC Annual Conference. This plan calls for the District Superintendents and District Lay Leaders to nominate professing members from within their district as at-large members for participation in the NC Annual Conference meeting. The Conference Board of Laity elects LEP members from these nominations. 

In March, we will open nominations for the 2026 LEP elections. Nominations can be made by the district lay leader, district superintendent, pastor, local lay leadership, or self-nomination from March 2-28, 2026. 

Responsibilities of the LEP member include:

• Engage in spiritual practices that build attentiveness to God’s will and direction. Members of the annual conference need to hold one another accountable to the mission and vision of the Church.
• Become knowledgeable about the connection, structure, and ministries of the Annual Conference, The United Methodist Church, and the local congregation.
• Attend all sessions, as available, of the Annual Conference. If you are unable to serve as an LEP member, please notify us so an alternate can be identified. 
• During the conference session, the LEP member will participate in discussions, debates, voting, and all other activities of the Annual Conference.
• Lay members play a crucial role in connecting the mission and vision of the local congregation with those of the Annual Conference. With this link, the church is even more clearly focused, and the laity’s responsibility in the call to ministry is more clearly understood.

Please note that elected lay members are responsible for their own travel arrangements and accommodations. There is no funding available from the district or conference for travel, meals, or accommodations. College Hill Suites at East Carolina University provides very affordable lodging for Lay Members to the Annual Conference, including LEP members. More information about lodging will be shared when it is available.

We are grateful for the willingness of our laity to serve as members of the Lay Equalization Plan. It is our hope that as you participate in the life and work of our Annual Conference, you will grow in your discipleship journey.