Dr. Randall Miller , Adjunct Professor (formerly , Assistant Professor of UM Studies, Ethics, and Leadership at the Pacific School of Religion)
Randall4015@gmail.com (usually respond within 48 hours)
Th is course will provide the background necessary for understanding and appreciating the evolution of United Methodist polity and examines the current operation of that polity. This course offers practical ministry-oriented information with a focus on effective conversations that will enhance successful local church ministry. We will explore the present polity of the United Methodist Church and discover the various ways to organize the local church for mission. We will also seek clarity regarding the best way to serve within our unique appointment process.
Keep in mind that we’ll be learning about UMC polity at a time when the formal structures and relationships within the global UM fellowship are under growing strain. The growing populations of United Methodists in the Global South, the diminishing numbers in Europe and the U.S., the move towards schism and the recent formation of a new conservative denomination, and increasingly diverse theological interpretations and social stances, raise important questions about the ties that bind us together.
This course is designed to meet the polity requirements for candidates seeking ordination as Deacons or Elders within the United Methodist Church.
Course Syllabus (will be built out in canvas soon)
| Date | Day | Details | |
| Mar 27, 2021 | Sat | Week One: 3/22-3/28 – The Constitution | due by 05:59AM |
| Apr 03, 2021 | Sat | Week Two: 3/29-4/4 – Judicial Administration | due by 05:59AM |
| Apr 08, 2021 | Thu | Zoom Check-In #1, 4/8 from 2:30 - 3:45 PM MT | due by 08:30PM |
| Apr 10, 2021 | Sat | Week Three: 4/5-4/11 – The Local Church | due by 05:59AM |
| Apr 17, 2021 | Sat | Week Four: 4/12-4/18 – The Ministry of the Ordained | due by 05:59AM |
| Apr 23, 2021 | Fri | Zoom Check-In #2, April 22 from 2:30 - 3:45 PM MT | due by 05:59AM |
| Apr 27, 2021 | Tue | Midterm, Open Book, Open Notes Quiz - 4/23-26 | due by 05:59AM |
| May 08, 2021 | Sat | Week Seven: 5/3-5/8 – Administrative Order | due by 05:59AM |
| May 14, 2021 | Fri | Zoom Check-In #3, 5/13 from 2:30 - 3:45 PM MT | due by 05:59AM |
| May 15, 2021 | Sat | Week Eight: 5/9-5/15 – Church Property | due by 05:59AM |
| May 22, 2021 | Sat | Week Nine: 5/16-5/23 – The Social Principles | due by 05:59AM |
| May 22, 2021 | Sat | Week Five Canvas Post | due by 05:59AM |
| May 28, 2021 | Fri | Week Five, 4/19-4/25 - The Superintendency | due by 05:59AM |
| May 29, 2021 | Sat | Week Ten: 5/24-5/28 – Course Wrap-Up/Completing Final Presentations | due by 05:59AM |
| May 30, 2021 | Sun | Make-Up Quiz | due by 11:00PM |
| May 31, 2021 | Mon | Final Presentation | due by 05:59AM |