Why aren absentee or proxy ballots allowed?
Absentee balloting was abolished from the recommended bylaws for a ministry because it does not allow the voter to be privy to the discussion and possible subsequent amendments to the agenda item as it occurs at the meeting. The voter is disadvantaged by not being able to respond to the changes in the action that is considered by the membership. In the case of proxy vote, the proxy cannot be an appropriate decision-maker for the absent voter as discussion and amendments to the original motion occur, no matter how informed the proxy may be on the voter’s disposition on the item listed in the agenda. Prayer for the positive outcome of the proceedings is the best contribution an absent voter can make in order to hold the highest good for the ministry.
