Annual Conference Lay Member Nominations: March 2- 28
Our Annual Conference happens June 18-20, 2026, at the Greenville Convention Center, and we want YOU there. This is where local church mission connects with our conference-wide vision – a space for inspiring worship and holy conferencing as we shape our future together.
What is the Lay Equalization Plan (LEP)?
In 2021, we adopted a plan to ensure lay members have equal representation with clergy at Annual Conference. It’s simple: we need the same number of lay members as clergy members in the room. That’s where you come in.
Here’s how it works: Your District Superintendent and District Lay Leader nominate professing members from across the conference as at-large members. The Conference Board of Laity reviews all nominations and elects members to attend.
Watch this short video for a complete overview of the plan and what it means to serve as an LEP member.
How to Nominate Someone (or Yourself!)
The nomination window opens on March 2 and closes at midnight on March 28. Here’s who can nominate:
- District Lay Leaders
- District Superintendents
- Pastors
- Local church lay leadership
- You can nominate yourself!
- You can nominate someone else (just talk with them first)
- You can submit multiple nominations!
Important: These nominations are in addition to the member(s) already elected at your charge conference.
All nominees will hear back by April 12, 2026, about whether they’ve been elected as a member or alternate.
What You Need to Know
Elected lay members cover their own travel, meals, and lodging – there’s no district or conference funding available. The good news? College Hill Suites at East Carolina University offers very affordable accommodations for Annual Conference attendees. You can find more information here and on the Annual Conference 2026 webpage.
Why This Matters
We need lay members of all ages, genders, and ethnicities at the table. Our decision-makers should reflect the beautiful diversity of God’s creation. Whether you’re brand new to conference work or you’ve been around for a while, your perspective matters.
Take Action Now!
- Nominate yourself if you’re interested in serving
- Talk to someone in your church who would bring a fresh perspective
- Share this link with your leadership team and congregation
- Submit by March 28 – don’t wait!
This is more than attending meetings – it’s about growing in discipleship while helping shape the future of our conference. We’re grateful to everyone who steps up to serve.
Questions? Reach out to your District Lay Leader or District Superintendent.
Let’s make sure every voice is heard.
John Hall
Conference Lay Leader