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Strawbridge Covenant
In accordance with The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, paragraph 345, we as a Conference Fellowship of Local Pastors and Associate Members covenant to:
Provide for regular gatherings of local pastors and associate members for continuing formation in relationship to Jesus Christ through such experiences as Bible study, study of issues facing the church and society, and theological exploration in vocational identity and leadership by meeting no less than annually in conjunction with the annual conference and as often throughout the year as the conference fellowship determines for the purpose of participating in the means of grace through:
- worship
- participating in the holy meal
- remembering our baptism
- studying scripture
- covenanting to pray for the church universal, The United Methodist Church, and one another.
Encourage Local pastors in continued study beyond the course of study by covenanting to seek out and participate in the continuing education events sponsored by the general church or local annual conferences.
Develop a bond of unity and common commitment to the mission and ministry of The United Methodist Church and the annual conference by:
- being faithful witnesses for Christ and His church
- affirming the connection and being loyal to The United Methodist Church
- using the tithe as a standard for giving and sharing our talents and time
- continuing to strive to bring unity of the clergy within the connection
Enable the creation of relationships that allow mutual support and trust by:
- encouraging one another to develop a program for use of time that will enable good health for ourselves and our families
- mentoring each other and holding each other accountable to the rule and order of the fellowship
- being forgiving and gracious when we fail each other
Hold accountable all members of the fellowship in the fulfilling of these purposes (adapted from ¶ 311.5, Order of Elders).
*Text in italics is from ¶ 345.1, points a-d of the 2000 book of Discipline. | 
