Church of the Brethren Sets December Deadlines for National Nominations
The Church of the Brethren Nominating Committee set a December 2, 2026 deadline for members to submit leadership nominations for open denominational positions, brethren.org reported. Standing Committee district delegates are asking the wider church body to put forward candidates for upcoming elected roles ahead of the annual voting process.
Nominating Committee chair Lori Sollenberger Knepp stated that the denomination views leadership selection as a shared act requiring careful discernment and prayer. The committee accepts candidate names from individuals, district delegates, and trusted friends before reaching out to nominees to confirm their willingness to serve and request biographical details.
The Denominational Selection Process
The candidate pipeline starts with submissions from the broader church body before moving through multiple layers of review. The Nominating Committee evaluates submitted biographical information to assess the specific skills and gifts each individual brings to a role.
After reviewing the initial pool, the committee compiles a preliminary ballot for the Standing Committee of district delegates. That group narrows the options down to a final ballot that goes before the delegate body for a formal vote at the Annual Conference.
Upcoming Nominations Schedule
* December 2, 2026: Final deadline for the church body to submit names for open elected positions.
* December 9, 2026: Deadline for individuals who have accepted a nomination to submit their completed nominee information forms.
Frequently Asked Questions About Church Nominations
Who is eligible to submit a nomination for Church of the Brethren leadership?
Any member of the Church of the Brethren can participate by submitting a name. Individuals who feel called to serve can also test that call with trusted friends within the denomination who can then submit the nomination on their behalf.
What information must nominees provide after being contacted?
Nominees who agree to be considered must submit additional biographical information. This documentation allows the Nominating Committee to evaluate their specific skills, gifts, and readiness for denominational service.
How does the Standing Committee shape the final ballot?
The Nominating Committee presents an initial ballot to the Standing Committee of district delegates. That group then reduces the candidates down to the final ballot presented to delegates for voting at the Annual Conference.
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