After several months of study, the 30-member delegation from the North Texas Annual Conference voted unanimously to support the basic recommendations of the Connectional Table, knowing that the legislation will be perfected at General Conference.

Lay delegates are particularly passionate about the proposed changes because they are consistent with how effective organizations function, delegate leaders say.

"The most important piece of the Call to Action for the North Texas delegation is the emphasis on vital congregations. We are unanimous in our belief that the local congregation is the key for church renewal in North America," said the Rev. Don Underwood, chairman of the NTC delegates. "The research completed by the Call to Action team demonstrates that we can both measure and help create missional vitality. We are excited about the possibilities that open up if we, as a denomination, will truly focus on developing and sustaining vital congregations."

The delegation also supports general church structural and governance proposals, including the merger of nine of the general agencies led by an executive general secretary, Underwood said.

The changes "are essential in enabling the general church to effectively support congregations in their quest for missional vitality." he said.