Atlantic Coast Conference welcomes congregations to explore partnering with us as a new member. Below you can find details on the process of transferring a congregation or a credential into ACC.
Mennonite Church USA also offers a FAQ page: My conference voted to leave Mennonite Church USA. Now What?
It is understood that before any formal process is begun, congregations interested in transferring membership will be in process together and will be in conversation with ACC leadership and their current credentialing body about the possibility of transfer.
- The congregation should demonstrate its interest and eligibility in writing to the Executive Committee of ACC by communicating directly, or through a sponsoring group.
- Interested congregations should explain:
- What makes ACC appealing to your congregation?
- What strengths does your congregation bring to ACC?
- How would affiliation with ACC strengthen your vision?
- Per ACC’s bylaws, eligible congregations will demonstrate:
- The existence of a recognized body of members
- An adequate leadership structure that supports the operations of a viable congregationA willingness to embrace the current Confession of Faith of Mennonite Church USA as a guiding framework for ministry and relationshipA commitment to giving and receiving counsel from the conference and/or its constituent congregations
- A readiness to share responsibly in the program of the Conference with interest, prayers, personnel and funds
- Interested congregations should explain:
- After the criteria for membership is provided, the Executive Committee may recommend the congregation or group of congregations to the Delegate Council for reception as members of the Atlantic Coast Conference.
- The Delegate Council will take action in response to the recommendation of the Executive Committee at the next delegate meeting, typically held in April and October.
An individual minister or group of ministers from a given congregation may seek to transfer credentials already lodged with Mennonite Church USA through an area conference. The individual or group will first inform their current credentialing body and an ACC Conference Minister of their intention to seek a new credentialing body. Such a transfer will require that a minister’s congregation be informed and supportive of such a transfer.
- The individual shall indicate in writing his/her interest in having the credential transferred to ACC. This request shall be directed toward the chair of ACC’s Ministerial Leadership Committee.
- The individual will be interviewed by the Ministerial Leadership Committee, with lead pastor or other leader of the congregation being present for the interview to represent the support of the congregation.
- If accepted, the ACC office will submit a request to the conference currently holding the credential asking for electronic transfer within 30 days.
- Those with transfers approved by the MLC will have 30 days to undergo the background certifications required by state law and ACC policy.