Each reports on the activities of their team, and together they discuss how the various ministries can support or benefit from the other. That's in direct contrast to what is being done now, which is that together, we determine what the work is and how to do it. We need to really look at what does it mean to form faith. The shift from a top-down structure means that, ideally, the Annual Conference is more flexible and able to respond to ministry needs more quickly, Bishop Hopkins said. The team has permission to act without having to have everything ratified by another group.
People are still accountable to the whole system.
The shift is an attempt to streamline administration, cut down on committee work and concentrate on ministry at the local level, he said. The new structure has been in place for over two years now. Last June, the Annual Conference voted to set aside money for an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Common Table and the new structure. The study will begin later this year. Williams said the change hasn't been easy.