The Role of the Delegate
Serving as a Delegate in the Free Methodist Church in Canada is both a responsibility and a ministry. Delegates represent their local church (or “society”) to the denomination, serving as voting members at General Conference and as key participants in local church leadership. More than simply attending meetings, Delegates are prayerful discerners of congregational health, trusted liaisons between their church and the FMCIC, and active contributors to pastoral review and transition processes. This page outlines the core responsibilities of Delegates and highlights how this role helps strengthen connection, communication, and spiritual discernment across our movement.
Review the Checklist of Delegate Responsibilities
This checklist is taken from The Manual Chapter 3, Par. 375.5
Delegates as liaisons with the Conference
Delegates as local church members
Delegates as active board members
Delegates as voting members of the General Conference
The Role of the Delegate
Part One with David Kreutzweiser, Chair of the Board of Administration
The Role of the Delegate
Part Two with David Kreutzweiser, Chair of the Board of Administration
Core Responsibilities of a Delegate
Representation
- Represent your local church (society) to the denomination
- Vote on behalf of your congregation at General Conference
Spiritual Discernment & Church Health
- Serve as a fully engaged member of your local church
- Act as a spiritual discerner of congregational health
- Pray for and monitor indicators of church health
- Share relevant insights with your Lead Pastor or appropriate church leaders
Liaison Between Church and Denomination
- Serve as the primary connection between your church and the FMCIC
- Receive denominational information and share it with your congregation
- Communicate appropriate local church information back to the denomination
- Develop a communication rhythm or plan with your pastor for sharing updates
Pastor Performance Appraisal
- Ensure a formal annual performance appraisal is completed for pastors
- Submit appraisal results to the Ministerial Formation Department
- Become familiar with the appraisal process through the FMCIC website
Local Church Leadership
- Serve as a full voting member of the local church board
- Participate on the Pastoral Transition Team when the church is in transition
Communication & Engagement
- Be enrolled in the Delegates’ listserve (Gaggle)
- Stay informed through:
- Regional Gatherings
- Online seminars
- Bishops’ Weekly updates
- Other denominational communication platforms
- Regularly relay national information to your congregation
