155–185

B. Statutory Law

155. Statutory law consists of legislation passed by the General Conference by a majority vote in fulfillment of its duties as set forth in the Constitution and in keeping with its provisions and restrictions and printed by order of the General Conference in The Discipline of The Wesleyan Church. Such statutory law is the authority for all of the North American General Conference of The Wesleyan Church, including its members, ministers, churches, districts, institutions, auxiliary organizations, corporations, general divisions and offices, agencies, and any other official bodies (cf. 185). Statutory law remains in effect until amended, rescinded, or declared unconstitutional.

165. All changes in or additions to the statutory laws take effect when The Discipline is published following the adjournment of the General Conference unless an earlier time is ordered by a two-thirds vote of the General Conference.

C. Ritual

175. The ritual of The Wesleyan Church consists of those rites and ceremonies contained in The Discipline of The Wesleyan Church (cf. 5500-5999), officially approved by the General Conference by a majority of those present and voting. The “Reception of Members,” “Covenant Questions,” and “Declaration of Purpose,” in the ritual for the “Reception of Members” (5565-5567); the “Examination of Candidates” (5772) in the rituals for the “Ordination of Ministers” (5782); and the “Commissioning of Ministers” (5825) have the authority of statutory law and must be followed as prescribed. In the remainder of the Ritual, a measure of flexibility is permitted as long as nothing contradicts the Articles of Religion or any other part of the Constitution.

D. Current Authority

185. The current issue of The Discipline of The Wesleyan Church is the only valid authority for the North American General Conference and its subordinate units, with the exception of those units under the Global Partners Division which have been authorized to have their own disciplines by the General Board (cf. 340:2; 2500:4-5; 2610:8).