Bishops of The United Methodist Church provide spiritual leadership to almost 12 million persons in a broad range of settings on four continents, including North America, Europe, Africa and Asia. In the United Methodist tradition, bishops are not "ordained" as bishops, but are clergy elected and consecrated to the office of bishop.
Historically, bishops play an important leadership role in ordering the life of the church and helping set the direction to fulfill its mission in the world. All bishops share in teaching, equipping, and encouraging mission and service. They serve as shepherds of the entire church, providing a prophetic witness for justice and unity. All bishops are members of the Council of Bishops, which collectively is charged with the general oversight and promotion of the temporal and spiritual interests of the entire Church. Bishops are specifically assigned to preside over the work of a regional area.
On this site you can meet your bishop and learn about the many ways United Methodists are in ministry in your community and around the world.
About The Council of Bishops
All active and retired bishops of The United Methodist Church make up the Council of Bishops.
- Website for Council of Bishops: UnitedMethodistBishops.org
- Introduction to the Council
- Frequently Asked Questions
- "Firsts" of the Council
- Comprehensive list of bishops since 1784
Meet the Bishops
This resource will allow you to locate key contact information, biographies, and more for Bishops of The United Methodist Church.
Some of our bishops have appeared on our podcast called Get Your Spirit in Shape. Hear their personal faith stories.
News and Statements
Read the latest headlines concerning the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church.
Ecumenical and Interreligious Ministries
The United Methodist Church, through the Council of Bishops, calls all Christians to strive toward unity and relationships with churches of Methodist and other traditions. Staff for this ecumenical and interreligious work are based in Washington, D.C.
