When church leaders speak out on a social issue, are they speaking for the Church?

Only the General Conference can speak officially for The United Methodist Church.  The official statements of the Church on social and world issues can be found in the Social Principles and The Book of Resolutions. 

The Social Principles are described as a "prayerful and thoughtful effort on the part of the General Conference to speak to the human issues in the contemporary world from a sound biblical and theological foundation as historically demonstrated in United Methodist traditions."

The Book of Resolutions serves as a guide for the church for reference, encouragement, study and support.

General Conference authorizes bishops “to be prophetic voices and courageous leaders in the cause of justice for all people.”  In addition, "The Church expects the Council of Bishops to speak to the Church and from the Church to the world...." (par. 404 and 427, 2004 Book of Discipline)

Bishop Woodie White explains the role of the bishops as spiritual leaders in his article "Bishops don't get the final word".

General Conference also gives the General Board of Church and Society the responsibility to “provide forthright witness and action on issues of human well-being, justice, peace, and the integrity of creation" and to “speak its convictions, interpretations, and concerns to the Church and to the world.” (par. 1004, 2004 Book of Discipline)

When church leaders speak out about an issue, it is expected that their comments will be consistent with the official positions of the Church as adopted by General Conference and expressed in the Social Principles and Book of Resolutions.