How Does General Assembly Work?

A Quick Guide

Ever wonder how decisions and policy changes actually happen in our church? It all starts at the local level and works its way up to the General Assembly (GA), which meets every two years. Here’s a quick look at how the process flows:

• From Local to National: Recommendations for action—called overtures—begin in local church sessions. If passed, they move to the Presbytery, which can then vote to send them on to the General Assembly.

• Committee & Plenary Review: Once at GA, every overture is first assigned to a dedicated committee for deep discussion and refinement. Key items are then brought to the full gathering (plenary) for debate and a vote.

• Bringing It Back Home: Passing at GA is often just the middle step! Overtures that are approved will be compiled into a booklet and sent back to the Presbyteries this fall for final ratification.

Later this year or early next year, our Presbytery will review and vote on each item (requiring a simple majority to pass--known as ratification or concerrence). Stay tuned for details on how you can follow along and participate!