This edition of the perennial guide to United Methodist structure and governance incorporates the extensive changes the 1996 General Conference made in the polity of the Church as found in the 1996 Book of Discipline. Particular attention is given to the new change allowing local churches to organize themselves for ministry and mission, and to the signal changes in the ministry of the ordained. An indispensable guide for all United Methodists--pastors, lay leaders, church council members, confirmation and new member candidates and their instructors, and seminarians--the book is presented in a practical, down-to-earth manner for easy use by both individuals and classes, clergy and lay. It highlights the functions and connectional relationships within the organization: the local church, districts, annual conferences, jurisdictional conferences, the General Conference, the general agencies of the Church, and the Judicial Council. Bishop Tuell discusses the Church's unique polity and gives a frank assessment of its strengths and weaknesses. At the same time, he paints the image of a worldwide connectional communion that is organized to bear witness to its Wesleyan heritage and to spread the good news of Jesus Christ. Read Less