by Rev. Allison Mark, Cal-Pac first-elect clergy delegate

There’s a sign some churches jokingly post on their doors: “No perfect people allowed.” But what if our rules for who can officially be included have some hidden asterisks? This second constitutional amendment is a long-overdue reminder that the doors of the United Methodist Church are meant to swing wide open—and stay open—for everyone.

The amendment to Paragraph 4, Article 4 of the Constitution adds two simple but powerful words to our list of protected categories: “gender” and “ability.”

That’s it. Two words. One giant step for inclusion.

What the Amendment Does

Article 4 already names that we are open to all people—regardless of race, color, national origin, status, or economic condition. The amendment adds “gender” and “ability” to that list. In plain terms, it means:

• You can’t be denied membership or participation in the UMC based on your gender.
• You can’t be excluded from the life of the church because of a physical, cognitive, or developmental disability.

That’s it. No hidden agendas. No doctrinal changes. Just a stronger, clearer commitment to making sure everyone gets a seat at the table.

Why It Matters

You might be wondering: Didn’t we already believe this?

Yes. But belief isn’t the same as constitutional protection. Until it’s in the church’s constitution, there’s always room for loopholes, misunderstandings, or even discriminatory interpretations.

This amendment actually first passed General Conference in 2016 but fell just short of the two-thirds global vote required for ratification. Many believe it was due to confusion—some voters conflated “gender” with debates around human sexuality, when in fact, this amendment is not about that at all.

This time around, the language is clearer, the conversations more informed, and the commitment stronger.

If Ratified: What Could This Look Like by 2028?

• More accessible churches: Conferences could invest more intentionally in ADA-compliant buildings, sensory-friendly worship, and disability theology resources.
• Affirmation of women’s leadership: In cultures or local churches where female pastors or lay leaders still face resistance, this amendment can serve as a denominational backbone to affirm their God-given call.
• Sunday school for all ages and abilities: Curriculum and faith formation tools could be adapted for neurodiverse children and adults, encouraging interdependent ministry.
• Visible welcome: Churches might revise their printed materials, digital communications, and membership classes to explicitly say: “Your body, your mind, your gender identity—none of these are barriers to belonging.”

This Is Not a Culture War Amendment

Let’s be clear: This amendment is not a secret attempt to resolve the UMC’s ongoing debates around human sexuality. It does not change ordination standards or marriage rites. It simply affirms that all people—all people—can become members of the church. It puts into words what we say we believe.

And frankly, if our bathrooms have better signage about who’s welcome than our Constitution does, it’s time for an upgrade.

Voting Details

Just like the other amendments, this one must be voted on as-is. No changes, no edits, no substitutions. A two-thirds global majority is needed for it to be ratified. Your individual vote counts in the overall total.

Clergy in full connection and lay members of Annual Conference: you each get a voice.

Final Thought: Don’t Just Open the Door—Remove the Stairs

In Hawaiian, “E Komo Mai” means, “Welcome, come on in!” In Japanese, “Yokoso!” means the same. Inclusiveness isn’t just about saying “come on in.” It’s about asking, “Can everyone actually get in the door? And once they’re in, are they truly seen, respected, and empowered to lead?”

Jesus healed the blind and the paralyzed. He chose women to be the first witnesses of resurrection. He told us to invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the overlooked to the banquet.

This amendment is one small way to do just that.

Because the Church doesn’t just welcome people. It needs people of all genders and abilities to fully reflect the body of Christ.