Intent
The intent of this document is to lay out expectations and helpful guidelines for prospective delegates to the Northwest Conference Annual meeting and the Denominational Annual Meeting. The guidelines below were not written to restrict the voice of our delegates but clarify their roles and responsibilities as a delegate.
Qualifications
- Member in good standing with Hope Covenant
General Expectations for Delegates
- Honor the Role: Everything that happens at the Annual meeting requires the delegates participation. Delegates receive the reports, approve recommendations, question and debate the issue to vote on motion. Delegates, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, under the guidance of God’s word and the leadership of Jesus Christ ultimately determine the course for the Covenant Church’s future.
- As a delegate, you represent the church you are a member of. On matters that require a vote, we ask that you vote according to your understanding of the church you represent. This does not mean you can’t allow your own conscience to guide your vote but that you do so with respect to your local church.
- When there are matters of contentious debate or when there is a potential conflict of conscience, we ask delegates to consult the leadership team for clarification and guidance. A congregational meeting can be called to determine the perspective of the local church on matters being voted on.
- As a delegate, we ask that you keep alert. Please be aware of what is happening, and if you are unsure, ask! We ask that when you come back from these meetings that you report what you have learned for the betterment of the local church.
- Read the agenda and pre-meeting material before you arrive.
- Engage! There are many ways of participating: ask questions, make comments, and actively listen. Remember that silence generally means agreement.
