SALUNGA, Pa. – In a historic vote May 24, the 50-member Eastern Mennonite Missions Board voted to 1) significantly alter the current 11-member Executive Committee by increasing its size and mandate, making it the legally accountable and primary decision-making body for EMM; and 2) to shift the current Board to a representative council, increasing its connection with those who support EMM and establishing a relationship with the new EMM Board as a vital resource and counsel-giving body.

The vote, which was 94 percent affirmative, is subject to the approval of the Lancaster Mennonite Conference (LMC) Bishop Board. More than 75 percent of the Board members were present for the vote.

These decisions occurred at a day-long retreat at the Mount Joy (Pa.) Mennonite Church and followed a three-week season of prayer. Board members used plenary sessions, table groups, and open microphone sessions to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of moving to a new governance structure.

“There was a great deal of freedom and transparency,” said Richard Showalter, president of EMM. “The spirit of the meeting was outstanding despite the importance of the decision faced by the Board and the potential for divided opinion.”

Joe Sherer, EMM Executive Committee member and retreat facilitator, said, “As we move through this reorganization process, every effort will be made to preserve the mission of the Board. We believe this shift will help Board members feel more empowered and help constituents feel more connected than ever.”

Showalter explained that the Executive Committee, with affirmation from the Board, had asked for a Board Review Task Group to examine the current board structure, in light of changing realities.

The current structure has representative Board members chosen from all districts of LMC as well as from partnering conferences. This large representative group meets bi-monthly to process recommendations brought by the Executive Committee of the Board, which meets monthly.

The Executive Committee will appoint a task force to help the Board work at implementing the changes. At the appropriate times, the decisions of the EMM Board will be submitted to the LMC Bishop Board for their action.

-Jewel Showalter

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