Church of the Brethren Seeks Nominations for Denominational Leadership

The Nominating Committee of the Standing Committee for the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference has issued an open call for candidate submissions to fill upcoming denominational leadership positions ahead of deadlines concluding in December 2026.

The Bottom Line

• Key Deadlines: General nominations must be submitted by December 2, 2026, while nominee information forms are due by December 9, 2026.
• The Selection Structure: The Nominating Committee reviews initial submissions, contacts nominees for biographical data, and narrows the ballot before presenting it to the Standing Committee and delegate body.
• Participation Channels: Members may self-nominate by discussing their potential calling with trusted peers who can formally submit their names.

The Mechanics of Denominational Discernment

Choosing leaders within the Church of the Brethren requires a structured process combining individual reflection with collective body evaluation. Lori Sollenberger Knepp, chair of the Nominating Committee, noted that while everyday choices rely on personal judgment, selecting denominational leadership demands deeper communal discernment.

The Nominating Committee, which consists of district delegates to the Annual Conference, evaluates submitted names. Once identified, prospective candidates are contacted to complete additional biographical documentation detailing their specific skills and qualifications.

Ballot Reduction and Delegate Voting

The screening process follows a multi-tier review structure before reaching the general assembly. After gathering candidate profiles, the Nominating Committee compiles a preliminary ballot for the Standing Committee.

The Standing Committee then scales down this list to a final ballot. That finalized roster proceeds to the Annual Conference, where the official delegate body casts votes to determine the seated leadership.

Addressing Perceptions and Directing Nominations

Committee organizers have acknowledged common perceptions regarding institutional familiarity within the election cycle. To counter the idea that appointments depend strictly on existing personal networks, the committee encourages broader outreach to identify qualified individuals.

Individuals sensing a personal call to serve are advised to test their intentions through consultation with trusted peers within the church. If affirmed, those peers can officially submit the nomination.

Action Item	Deadline	Responsible Party
Initial Nominations Due	December 2, 2026	General Membership / Peers
Nominee Information Forms Due	December 9, 2026	Accepted Nominees

Additional submission materials and documentation guidelines remain accessible through official denomination resources as the December deadlines approach.