Statement on the Ratification of UMC Constitutional Amendments
Methodist Federation for Social Action
Delegates celebrate after a General Conference vote in May 2024. The Council of Bishops announced on Nov 5, 2025 that all four constitutional amendments have been ratified by Annual Conferences of the United Methodist Church. (Photo by Larry McCormack, UM News)
The Methodist Federation for Social Action celebrates this week’s historic news that all four constitutional amendments adopted by the 2020/2024 General Conference have been ratified by the annual conferences of The United Methodist Church.
This moment reflects decades of faithful advocacy by countless United Methodists who have worked to build a church rooted in justice, equity, and God’s unconditional welcome. These amendments strengthen our shared life together: affirming that no one can be excluded because of gender or ability, naming and confronting racism and colonialism as sin, empowering regional decision-making across our global connection, and expanding pathways for clergy leadership.
We rejoice in this abundantly clear and overwhelming affirmation of the values many of us have long championed. It is a sign that our church is moving with courage toward a future where all people can thrive and lead.
And yet, we know that ratification is not the finish line. These commitments now call for lived accountability — in our policies, our pulpits, and our pews. MFSA, currently undergoing our own racial audit and accountability work, remains dedicated to partnering with justice-seeking congregations, regional chapters, and partners across the connection to ensure these changes are implemented with integrity and urgency.
Today we celebrate. Tomorrow we continue the work.
Together, we press on toward a more just church and a more just world.