Meetings for Business during the year

For much of IMYM’s history, the business of the yearly meeting has been discerned by Friends gathered at Annual Gathering. Between Gatherings, other bodies — including the Continuing Committee, Executive Committee, and later Representatives Committee — attended to business that arose within the authority entrusted to them, including some financial matters and nominations.

In recent years, IMYM has been gathering the wider community for online Meetings for Business during the year. This creates more opportunities for Friends across the yearly meeting to participate directly in shared discernment and decision-making.

What happens at an IMYM Meeting for Business?

Meetings for Business are held in worship, with Friends listening together for the sense of the meeting. The Clerk guides the business, names emerging unity, and records decisions when the meeting is clear to move forward.

Matters may include reports, nominations and appointments, financial decisions, recommendations from committees, or other work that is ready for the attention of the yearly meeting. Documents are shared in advance whenever possible so Friends can arrive prepared for discernment rather than simply receiving information.

If you have questions or you would like assistance to find something, email imym@imym.org