Q.  Why were we initially calling this a ‘Gathering’?  Isn’t it an Annual Meeting?
A. We can now call it an Annual Meeting!
The Southern New England Conference is incorporated in Massachusetts, where law usually requires that nonprofit organizations hold their Annual Meetings in person.  The MA legislature passed an emergency override to this law in response to COVID-19.  For the duration of the State of Emergency, and for 60 days thereafter, non-profit corporations may hold Annual Meetings on line.  Because the State of Emergency
remains in place as of mid-August, the emergency law permits us to hold a remote Annual Meeting on Sept. 26th.

Q.  Why do we need to pay $10 for a virtual meeting?
A.  You are contributing to enhance the beauty and power of your worship experience! The Worship Team requested a budget for musicians and licensing. 

Q. Will we vote?
A.  The Business Committee anticipates three votes:  adoption of modified Rules of Procedure for the online meeting; election of directors and officers; and most importantly, election of an Executive Conference Minister.

Q. How will we vote?
A.  We will conduct voting within the meeting which will allow anyone who would normally get a voting card to vote electronically.  Per MA law, all votes will be recorded and counted.  There are several good voting apps on the market, and your staff is currently researching which would work best for the Conference.
 
Q.  How will we meet?
A. We will use Zoom as the primary platform for this gathering, including both webinar and meeting components.  You can access Zoom through a smart phone, tablet or computer.
 
Q. What if I don’t know how to use Zoom?
A.  If you are concerned about accessing Zoom, please let us know on the registration form. The Accessibility and Steering teams will create opportunities for coaching and/or practice for those who need it.