AC Q&A: Information About the 2022 North Georgia Annual Conference
Updated May 31, 2022
Find answers to Frequently Asked Questions about Annual Conference 2022 below. We will update this document regularly. Stay connected to news and information by visiting www.ngumc.org/AC2022.
Q: Will Annual Conference 2022 be in-person?
Yes! Members of the 2022 North Georgia Annual Conference will meet in person in Athens.
Q: Can members participate remotely?
All voting will be done in person only. The sessions will be live-streamed, however, for all to follow along.
Q: Can visitors attend?
In-person attendance is limited to members of the Annual Conference, with the exception of the Service of Remembrance and the Service of Ordination. Family and friends may attend those services in person. Every session and worship service will be available via live stream.
Q: What COVID-19 protocols will be in place?
The Annual Conference will follow state and local health guidelines, including those of The Classic Center, in order to have a safe in-person gathering. We encourage all members of the Annual Conference to wear a mask while inside The Classic Center.
Q: Do members need a computer or smartphone to participate in person?
No. Voting devices will be provided.
Q: My spouse or family member will travel to Athens with me. Can they attend?
Unfortunately, in-person attendance is limited to members, but your spouse, family member, or friend can enjoy Athens and follow along via live stream.
Q: I need help with hotel availability?
Now is the time to book your hotel reservation if you need overnight accommodations. The Annual Conference Host Committee has worked with the Athens Convention and Visitors Bureau to secure hotel availability in Athens. The following hotels are suggested by the Annual Conference host committee: https://www.ngumc.org/hotels-annual-conference-2022.
Q: What will be included in the agenda for Annual Conference?
The agenda will be more condensed than previous in-person sessions. The sessions will include the recommended 2022 apportionment budget, Standing Rules, Trustees Report, Nominations Report, a celebration of retirees, fixing of the appointments, and other essential business in addition to opening worship, a service of remembrance, and ordination. The full agenda will be included in the Annual Conference Handbook.
Q: Will we have a Service of Remembrance? Can family and friends attend in person?
Yes. We will remember saints who have gone before us in a Service of Remembrance. Family members and friends are invited to attend the service in person or watch the live stream. The service is planned for 2 pm, Friday, June 3.
Q: What about Ordination? Can family and friends attend in person?
Yes. We will celebrate the ordination and commissioning of those elected to provisional and full-connection members in 2022. Family members and friends are invited to attend the service in person or watch the live stream. The service is planned for 10:30 am on Saturday, June 4.
Q: When will we celebrate Clergy Retirements?
The Annual Conference session will include the Passing of the Mantle and we will recognize retirees on Friday, June 3.
Q: Am I required to pre-register for Annual Conference?
Yes. Each member and reserve member are required to pre-register for Annual Conference. Registration was open May 15 to May 31.
Q: Is there a registration fee for Annual Conference 2022?
Yes. There is a $30 registration fee that goes toward the cost of conducting the Annual Conference session.
Q: Will there be a Laity Lunch?
Yes! The Conference Board of Laity is planning a Laity Lunch for noon on Thursday, June 2. Tickets have sold out, thanks to a great response from laity!
Q: Will there be a Pre-Conference Briefing?
Yes. There was a Pre-Conference Briefing for all districts via Zoom Webinar on Sunday, May 15.
Q: Will there be childcare for members of the Annual Conference?
Childcare is available to members of the Annual Conference for children ages 3 months to Pre-K. Registration in advance was required. A Nursing Mother's Room will be available onsite at the Classic Center.
Q: I have more questions about Annual Conference. How do I stay informed?
Regularly check www.ngumc.org/AC2022 where we will post information as it is available. And NEW this year, you can receive Annual Conference 2022 updates delivered straight to your phone! Text "AC2022" to 833-963-4294 to subscribe. (Normal text messaging rates apply. Text "STOP" to opt out. Text "HELP" for help.)
Timeline
The timeline and agenda for the 2022 North Georgia Annual Conference is:
May- Pre-Conference Briefing Webinar - May 15 at 2 pm
- Registration - May 15-31
- Clergy Executive Session (Clergy and Board of Ordained Ministry Members Only) - 10 am
- Laity Luncheon - Noon
- Opening Session of Annual Conference - 2 pm
- Session Two of Annual Conference - morning
- Service of Remembrance - 2 pm
- Session Three of Annual Conference - afternoon
- Retiree Recognition and Passing of the Mantle - afternoon
- Session Four of Annual Conference - morning
- Service of Ordination and Commissioning - 10:30 am
As we are well accustomed to this season, the information above is subject to change. Please check back regularly for additional information and updates.