THE NORTHERN OHIO DISTRICT CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN. The Good Life John 10:9-11. Conference Agenda District Conference

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1 THE NORTHERN OHIO DISTRICT CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN The Good Life John 10:9-11 Conference Agenda 2018 District Conference The 55th Conference of the Northern Ohio District Dupont Church of the Brethren Continental, Ohio August 3-4, 2018

2 Table of Contents Table of Contents District Conference Publicity District Conference Schedule...3 Conference Activities Room Assignments...4 Insight Sessions for District Conference...5 Pre-Conference Workshop...6 Worship Times, Moderator and Guest Speaker...7 Business Session...8 Service of Consecration for District Conference Delegates, Prayer of Commitment...9 Rules of District Conference...9 District Conference Central Committee, Personnel and Appointments...10 Ice Cream Social...10 Business Item #1: District Conference Ballot District Staff Reports District Executive Kris Hawk District Youth Worker Esther Harsh Peace & Conciliation Advocate Linda Fry District Board Commission & Appointment Reports District Board Tom Zuercher, Chair Congregational Commission Barbara Wilch, Chair Jonah s People Fellowship Barry Belknap, Pastor...25 Business Item #2: Faith in Action...26 Discipleship Commission Maria Nichols, Chair...27 Fellowship Commission Billi Janet Burkey, Chair Brethren Volunteer Service Billi Janet Burkey, Representative... See Delegate Packet Ministerial Commission Steve Simmons, Chair...28 Treasurer Report Lisa Snyder, Treasurer Financial Secretary Report Jennifer Recker, Financial Secretary...37 Business Item #3: District Budget Business Item #4: Resolution on Same Sex Marriage...41 Inspirations Hills Camp Camp Administration Committee, Kerri Bailey, Vice-Chair / Shannon Kahler, Camp Director P a g e

3 Financial Reports Wayne & Bonni Brockway, Co-Treasurers Elected by District Conference...See Delegate Packet 2018 Standing Committee Ben Polzin, Delegate... See Delegate Packet Other Reports Manchester University Good Shepherd Home... See Delegate Packet West View Healthy Living Ohio Council of Churches...52 Denominational Agencies Brethren Disaster Ministries Roy Winter, Executive Director Brethren Benefit Trust Harry Rhodes, Chair & Nevin Dulabaum, President On Earth Peace...57 Church of the Brethren Mission & Ministry Board David A. Steele, General Secretary Bethany Theological Seminary Annual Conference Moderator Report to Northern Ohio District, Donita J. Keister...61 Dupont Church of the Brethren Map P a g e

4 Northern Ohio District Conference Schedule Friday, August 3rd 11:00 a.m. Exhibit & Peace Auction Set-up Begins 12:00 p.m. Registration Begins 1:00-4:30 pm. Pre-Conference Workshop: Sharing the Good Life Michaela Alphonse 5:00 p.m. Dinner 6:30 p.m. Opening Worship / Terry Porter, Moderator opening message 8:00 p.m. Ice Cream Social sponsored by BBT Saturday, August 4th 7:30 a.m. Prayer Walk Pastor Steve Heilshorn 8:30 a.m. Business Session Children s Activities: K-5 th Grade 10:30 a.m. Non-Delegate Session 12:00 p.m. Lunch 1:15 p.m. Insight Sessions Sharing the Good Life Michaela Alphonse Hottle Memorial Grant Workshop Congregational Commission Resurrection Time: A Window of Opportunity Stan Dueck 2:30 p.m. Business Session Resumes 3:45 p.m. Insight Sessions: Resurrection Time: A Window of Opportunity Stan Dueck Inspiration Hills: What s Next? Shannon Kahler What Good is a Seminary Anyway? Jeff Carter 5:00 p.m. Dinner District Board Reorganization 6:30 p.m. Worship Jeff Carter, President Bethany Theological Seminary Installation of Officers Note: Childcare (toddlers and preschoolers) is available during the Pre-Conference, Worship Services, Business Sessions and Insight Sessions, located in the Childcare area. 3 P a g e

5 Conference Activities Room Assignments Business Sessions (Saturday)... Gymnasium Child Care: Preschoolers during Pre- Conf., Business, Worship & Insight Sessions.. Daycare (S) Children s Activities Grades 1-5 (Saturday)... Daycare (S) District Board Reorganization (Saturday)... *Christian Education Wing, Room G (G) Exhibits (Friday Saturday)... Room G (G) Ice Cream Social (Friday)... Gymnasium Insight Sessions Saturday Early Afternoon1:15-2:15 Sharing the Good Life with Michaela Alphonse... Youth Room (Y) Resurrection Time with Stan Dueck... Sanctuary Hottle Memorial Grant Workshop with Congregational Commission.. Overflow Space (S) Saturday Afternoon 3:45-4:45 Inspiration Hills: What s Next... Youth Room (Y) Resurrection Time with Stan Dueck... Sanctuary What Good is a Seminary Anyway? with Jeff Carter... Overflow Space (S) Jr. and Sr. High Activities... See Jr. and Sr. High Schedule Meals... Gymnasium Non-Delegate Session with Michaela Alphonse... Overflow (S) Nursery Care during Business, Worship & Insight Sessions... Daycare (S) Peace Auction (Friday & Saturday)... Room H (G) Prayer Walk Saturday A.M. Gathering Place... Youth/Office Building (Y) Pre-Conference Workshop (Friday)... Sanctuary Registration/Information Desk... Entry Hall (S) Worship Services... Sanctuary (S) = Sanctuary Level (G) = Gymnasium Level (Y) = Youth/Office Building *The Christian Education Wing is 3 steps up from the Gymnasium Level Note: Restrooms are on the Sanctuary Level, Single stall restrooms on the Gymnasium level are up 3 steps in the Christian Education Wing Dupont Church Phone Number (419) P a g e

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7 Pre-Conference Workshop August 3rd, 2018 from 1:00 pm 4:30 pm Dupont Church of the Brethren Open to all 0.3 Clergy CEU s available Sharing the Good Life Moving from fear to contagious joy One of the most expressed concerns in our district is losing members and the drop in attendance particularly among young people. How can we as individuals and churches move from fear into a place of joy a joy that is contagious and draws others in. What is the good news that we have to share? How do we grasp the amazing gift that has been given this life abundant and life eternal. What does it look like to live life anchored in the joy of the Lord that is our strength? What are the risks? Why should we bother? Come and learn and laugh and hope together! (0.3 CEU s for Clergy) Presenter: Michaela Alphonse Michaela Alphonse is pastor of Miami (Fla.) First Church of the Brethren. From 2012 through summer 2017, Michaela served through Global Mission and Service as a program volunteer with Mission Evangelique des Eglises des Frères D Haiti (Church of the Brethren in Haiti). In this role, Michaela created and coordinated an extensive theological training program as well as student scholarship and school health programs. She further served the Haitian church through hosting workcamps, assisting with mobile medical clinics, and serving as a liaison between Haitian and American Brethren. Michaela brings an infectious joy and a depth of faith to her preaching and teaching and living. 6 P a g e

8 Worship Times, Moderator & Guest Speaker Friday, August 3 6:30 p.m. Terry Porter, Pastor Emeritus, Dupont Church of the Brethren Saturday, August 4 6:30 p.m. Jeffrey W. Carter, President, Bethany Theological Seminary Terry was born on May 3, 1948 to Nolan & Wilma Porter. He attended Oakwood High School graduating in In 1967 he was united in marriage to Sheila. God richly blessed their union with three children- Lisa, Terry Nolan & Travis. Terry attended Fort Wayne Bible College & graduated from Defiance College with a Christian Ed. Degree. Terry pastored in the Evangelical United Brethren denomination from Then he did evangelistic work for several years. In 1975 he answered the call to become the pastor of the Dupont Church of the Brethren where he served for 39 ½ years. During this time, he also served in many different areas throughout the district including on the Inspirations Hills Board, District Board and as District Conference Moderator. Terry praises God for the privilege of being called to minister in many different churches in the brotherhood. Terry says, God is good, all the time. In 2014, Terry retired as pastor of the Dupont Church of The Brethren. Currently he enjoys farming & spending time with his children & grandchildren. He continues to speak in different churches and he also ministers through revivals and spiritual retreats. Terry says, It has been a great life and God s blessings are truly innumerable. The Rev. Dr. Jeffrey W. Carter assumed the presidency of Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Indiana, on July 1, Previously, he was senior pastor and head of staff at the Manassas (Virginia) Church of the Brethren. A native of Westminster, Md., Dr. Carter graduated in 1992 from Bridgewater College where he received his bachelor's degree in international studies. After graduation he worked on Capitol Hill for the Church of the Brethren Washington Office as a legislative aide, focusing on issues involving international trade and Central America. Dr. Carter entered ministerial life in 1993 when he served the Florin Church of the Brethren in Florin, Pa., as associate pastor. In 1995 he joined the Manassas Church of the Brethren as a team pastor, and in 2003 was named senior pastor. He represented the Church of the Brethren to the World Council of Churches from Dr. Carter graduated from Bethany Theological Seminary in 1998 and was ordained in the Church of the Brethren. In 2006 he graduated from Princeton Theological Seminary with a Doctor of Ministry degree with a focus in hermeneutics. He has also served as guest chaplain for the U.S. Senate and was the first member of the Church of the Brethren to offer the opening invocation for the Senate. Dr. Carter is currently on the Central Committee of the World Council of Churches and a member of the Commission on International Affairs. He also is a contributor to Feasting On the Word commentary by John Knox Press and is a past contributor to Messenger, the denominational magazine of the Church of the Brethren. In 1995 Dr. Carter married the former Kimberly Flora, a 1994 graduate of Bridgewater College. They have three children and reside in Richmond, Indiana. 7 P a g e

9 2018 District Conference BUSINESS SESSION Northern Ohio District Item Start Time Time Allowed Agenda Item Person Presenting 8:20 a.m. 10 min. Gathering music 8:30 a.m. 40 min. Business Session Opens, Opening Prayer Terry Porter Greeting from Dupont Church of the Brethren Steve Heishorn Roll Call of Delegates Nancy Jacobsen Accept Business Agenda Terry Porter Consecration of Delegates Doug Price Review Conference Rules Doug Price Introduction of Conference Officers Terry Porter Introduction of Guests Doug Price 9:10 a.m. 10 min. Table time connection 9:20 a.m. 10 min. New Business Item #1: Ballot Doug Price 9:30 a.m. 10 min. District Staff Reports / Recognition District Executive Peace & Conciliation Advocate Youth Coordinator Kris Hawk (written) / Julie Watson Linda Fry (written) Esther Harsh (written) 9:40 a.m. 10 min. District Board Report Tom Zuercher 9:50 a.m. 5 min. Fellowship Commission Billi Janet Burkey 9:55 a.m. 5 min. Congregational Commission Barbara Wilch 10:00 a.m. 10 min. New Business Item #2: Faith in Action Status Barbara Wilch / Kris Hawk 10:10 a.m. 10 min. Break 10:20 a.m. 10 min. Bible Study Patrick Bailey 10:30 a.m. 15 min. Discipleship Commission/District Financial Reports Maria Nichols / Treasurer s Reports / District Financial Secretary s Report Lisa Snyder / Jen Recker 10:45 a.m. 10 min. New Business Item #3: 2018 Budget Maria Nichols / Lisa Snyder 10:55 a.m. 10 min. Ministerial Commission / Buckeye Brethren Institute Steve Simmons / Paul Bozman 11:05 a.m. 5 min. National Youth Conference Report Youth / Esther Harsh 11:10 a.m. 15 min. New Business Item #4: Resolution on Same Sex Weddings Tom Zuercher / Steve Simmons 11:25 a.m. 15 min. Camp Reports Camp Administration Committee / Camp Financial Reports Jim Shives, Wayne / Bonni Brockway Camp Executive Director Shannon Kahler 11:40 a.m. 10 min. Election Results Doug Price 11:50 a.m. 10 min. Compelling Vision Michaela Alphonse 12:00 p.m. 75 min. Lunch 1:15 p.m. 60 min. Insight Sessions 2:30 p.m. 15 min. ORDER OF THE DAY: Recognition of Ordained Ministers Ministerial Commission 2:45 p.m. 20 min. Church of the Brethren Agency Reports Stan Dueck and Scott Douglas Mission and Ministry Board DVD Presentation Bethany Seminary Brethren Benefit Trust On Earth Peace 3:05 p.m. 5 min. Standing Committee Delegate Ben Polzin 3:10 p.m. 5 min. Brethren Homes: Good Shepherd Home Chris Widman 3:15 p.m. 5 min. Ohio Council of Churches 3:20 p.m. 10 min. Acceptance of Reports, Close of Business Terry Porter 3:45 p.m. 60 min. Insight Sessions 8 P a g e

10 Service of Consecration for District Conference Delegates August 4, Prayer of Commitment O God, we thank You for each of these disciples who have answered Your call to serve in Your ministry through the Northern Ohio District Church of the Brethren. Each of these people come with gifts for specific tasks under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Today we join in a service of consecration, commissioning these people to do Your work. We are grateful for our brothers and sisters who express their faith and witness through specific ministries in the Northern Ohio District. Grant us grace that we may all present our gifts and talents to be used for Your glory and our neighbor s good, because our faith is in the following. Amen. Leader: Brothers and sisters in Christ, God has called you to this service. Thank God for each of you and for your willing response to this call. Now I invite you to make your commitment by responding to the questions of consecration as a delegate. Do you willingly accept the responsibility to which you have been called, and do you promise to be faithful in fulfilling that responsibility? Delegates: We do. Leader: Will you seek to respond in a manner worthy of this trust, exemplifying Christian faith and spirit in all that you do and consider? Delegates: Leader: Delegates: We will. Will you be cooperative as you work together in common tasks and decisions? We will. Leader: May we as brothers and sisters in Christ, affirm one another as leaders called to serve the Church of the Brethren of Northern Ohio. Above all, may we seek to do God s will relying on His wisdom, strength, and love. Delegates: Unison Prayer: By His grace and with the leading of His Spirit we will! O God, we thank you for our fellow delegates who have been entrusted with the responsibility of doing business for Your church. Be with us as we administer what You have entrusted to our hands. Help us to study, pray, and reflect before we make decisions. Make us alert to the needs of all Your people, in the Northern Ohio District and beyond, so that we can carry out ministries in Your name. May this conference reflect the light of Your truth. We pray in the precious name of Your Son, Christ Jesus. Amen. Rules of District Conference All matters of business shall be clearly presented to Conference, after which the Moderator shall declare the same to be the business of Conference. No one shall speak more than twice on the same question. The first speech shall be limited to five minutes and the second, to three minutes. The Moderator shall decide when a question shall be put on its passage, but anyone from the voting body may move the previous question which is a motion to close debate. A two-thirds majority shall be necessary to pass answers to queries, matters of polity, and other items as determined by the Officers of the District Conference. A majority vote shall be the rule for all other motions. A plurality vote shall be required for the election of all officers. All appeals from the rulings of the Moderator shall be decided by the voting body. These rules may be amended at any regular session of the conference. Persons nominating from the floor may only name the nominee; the biographical information must be submitted in writing to the officers of the Conference who will later submit the information to the Conference Delegates. Written or oral consent must be obtained from all nominees. Robert s Rules of Order Revised shall be the standard for any point not covered by these rules. 9 P a g e

11 District Conference Central Committee Terry Porter (Dupont) Moderator-Elect (2018) Doug Price (Elm Street) Moderator-Elect (2019) Patrick Bailey (North Bend) Past Moderator (2017) Nancy Jacobsen (Mt. Pleasant) Clerk (2020) Terry Vaught (Maple Grove) Member (2018) Bob Patalano (Ashland Dickey) Member (2019) Michael Huffaker (Sugar Creek West) Member (2020) Linda Fry (Mansfield First) Conference Manager Cindy Peel (Akron Springfield) Conference Registrar District Conference Personnel Worship Coordinator: Terry Porter (Dupont) Worship Leader Friday: Doug Price (Elm Street) Worship Leader Saturday: Paul Bartholomew (Mohican) Praise Team: Dupont Praise Team Children s Program Coordinator: Sheila Porter (Dupont) Display Coordinator: Leslie Heilshorn (Dupont) Hospitality Coordinator: Terry Vaught (Paradise) Sound & Media Technician: (Dupont) Usher s Coordinator: Daryl McClish (Dupont) Dupont Church On-Site Coordinator: Cindy Wilson District Conference Appointments Time Keeper/Microphone Monitor: Amy Ashworth (Dupont) Counting Supervisor: Bob Patalano (Ashland Dickey) Tellers: Michael Huffaker (Sugar Creek West) & Nominating Committee Members Ice Cream Social Friday, August 3, 8:00 p.m. Gymnasium Sponsored by Brethren Benefit Trust Brethren Benefit Trust will be sponsoring this year s Ice Cream Social following worship Friday, August 3 at 8:00 p.m. in the Gymnasium. It is always an enjoyable time of fellowship. 10 P a g e

12 Business Item # District Conference Ballot Biographical Information *Indicates Incumbent Moderator Elect 3 year term (vote for one) Brad Kelley (East Chippewa) Current: (District) Ordained Minister, Pastor East Chippewa Church of the Brethren since June 2011; (Church) Co-Director of Young Connection Ministry (a ministry to young adults ages somethings) Former: President of Orrville Ministerial Association, District Moderator for former denomination, served as pastor for over 22 years in two churches in former denomination. Personal: Married to Sharon, three children Rod Matz (Ashland Dickey) Current: (District) Ethics Committee; (Church) Worship Team, Deacon Former: (District) Sr. High Youth Cabinet, District Board (Fellowship, Budget, Secretary), summer camp chaplain; (Church) Youth Advisor, Christian Education Commission, chair Personal: Married to Heidi (18 years), two children (Chloe 13, Brady 7) Firefighter/Medic at Mansfield City Fire Department, Jeromesville Fire Department. Traveled with youth from Ashland Dickey on several mission trips. District Board Central Area 3 year term (vote for two) Charlene Kuhn (Richland) Current: (Church) Treasurer, Deacon Former: (Church) Board Chair Personal: Married to Alan, two children (Wes & Christy), six grandchildren, Volunteer with All God s Children Ministry Patrick Bailey (North Bend) Current: (District) Ordained Minister, Pastor North Bend Church of the Brethren Former: (District) District Conference Moderator, District Board Ministerial Commission Personal: Married to Joanna, 3 sons Isaiah, Isaac, Josiah, 1 daughter Hannah, Football & Wrestling Coach for over 20 years at Clear Fork High School, Royal Family Kids Camp. 11 P a g e

13 District Board Western Area 3 year term (vote for two) *Deb Beer (County Line) Current: (District) District Board Secretary, Constitutional Committee; (Church) Deacon, Pre-school Sunday School teacher Former: (District) 2014 District Conference Moderator, District Conference clerk, District Board Member, Transition Team; (Church) Adult Sunday School teacher, Clerk Personal: Married to Bob, 2 grown children, currently employed as part-time Craft Director at Bluffton Senior Citizens Center Christine Harkless (Elm Street) Current: (Church) Leadership Team, Sunday School teacher, Youth Leader Former: (District) District Conference Delegate (Church) Lead Kids Carnival Personal: Two daughters, Michelle and Marsha, and a cat named Jackson. *Barbara Wilch (Lakewood) Current: (District) District Board Congregational Commission Chair, Executive Committee, Good Shepherd Home Board of Directors, Recording Secretary Poplar Ridge CoB; (Church) Bulletin Typist Former: (District) District Board Member; (Church) Church Board Chairman 12 years, Worship Committee, Bulletin Typist Personal: Married to Wayne, 6 children and 12 grandchildren. I am a retired nurse, who specialized in Wound Care and Geriatric Care. My husband and I love to travel. I have had the privilege to travel in all 50 states and internationally. Although we are retired, we keep very busy. District Board Eastern Area 3 year term (vote for two) *Billi Janet Burkey (Center) Current: (District) District Board Fellowship Commission Chair, Brethren Volunteer Service Rep., SISTERS Team Chair; (Church) Church Board (Nurture Team), Volunteer Secretary, Pianist Former: (District) District Librarian, District Transition Team Chair; (Church) Treasurer, Youth Director, Sunday School teacher Personal: Living and loving life, work for 95.9 The Light Christian Radio, Team Chair of Louisville Constitution Committee, volunteer for ministerial projects in community. *Ellen Speicher (Woodworth) Current: (District) District Board Fellowship Commission; (Church) Deacon, Board Member, Christian Education /Worship Committee, Sunday School teacher Former: (Church) Junior Choir Director Personal: Currently - Horticulturist and Public Speaker; former Assistant Horticulture Director at Fellows Riverside Gardens in Mill Creek MetroParks, Youngstown, OH and former Horticulture Director at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Pittsburgh, PA; Board Member Audubon Society/Mahoning Valley, Beaver Township Parks, Mill Creek Metro Parks Horticulture Standing Committee member. 12 P a g e

14 District Conference Central Committee 3 year term (vote for one) Kim Bassett (Pleasant View) Current: (Church) Church Board, Fellowship Committee Chair, Bible School teacher (43 years) Former: (Church) Music & Worship Committee, children s Sunday School teacher for 43 years Personal: Married to Dave (44 years), 3 adult sons, 8 grandchildren, volunteer at local soup kitchen Fern Dews (East Nimishillen) Current: (District) SISTERS planning team; (Church) Church Board Chair, Deacon, worship leader, song leader, Search Committee member, Witness Commission Chair Former: (District) District Board; (Church) Sunday School teacher, Nurture Commission, Vacation Bible School Director Personal: Widow, 2 adult children, former elementary school teacher, babysit at Pregnancy Choices; Disaster Relief, community choir, BVS in Havre, MT, trained in childcare for disasters. Kevin Wilson (Dupont) Current: (Church) Ministerial Board member, General Board Chair, Sunday School teacher Former: (Church) Member of the Finance Board Personal: Married to Cindy (37 years), we have one son, Nick who has blessed us with two amazing grandchildren, Brady and Brylee. I am finishing my 37 th year as an educator, during which I have served as an elementary teacher, high school teacher and also athletic director. Currently, I am the Grover Hill Elementary Principal which is part of the Wayne Trace Local School System. Nominating Committee, Eastern Area 3 year term (vote for one) Rebecca Ebie (Akron Eastwood) Current: (District) Licensed Minister, pastor pulpit supply, Eastern Area Pastor s group; (Church) Teaching Bible study class, quilting group Former: (District) District Board Congregational Commission, preached area wide Lenten services; (Church) Director of Christian Ed., teaching Bible study class, Vacation Bible School, started community garden, taught a grief recovery group Personal: Single, work part time as secretary for Springfield CoB, working on Doctor of Ministry degree at Ashland Theological Seminary. Enjoy reading, quilting, gardening and doing newsletter for family, school and BVS groups. Mike Zellers (Freeburg) Current: (District) Ordained Minister, Pastor Freeburg Church of the Brethren Former: (District) District Conference Moderator, District Board Chair, Fellowship Commission Chair Personal: Married to Connie (38 years), 3 adult children, 6 grandchildren 13 P a g e

15 Nominating Committee, Western Area 3 year term (vote for one) Fred Brinkman (Sugar Creek West) Current: (District) Shalom Team; (Church) Deacon Chair, Church Board member Former: (District) District Board Member; (Church), Church Board Chair, Deacon Chair Personal: Widowed, 3 grown sons married with children James Jim Masten (Lick Creek) Current: (District) Constitution Revision Committee Chair; (Church) Deacon (Vice Chair) Former: (District) District Board Discipleship Commission, District Executive Search Committee; (Church) Church Board Chair, Treasurer, Trustee Personal: Married to Janice (58 years), 3 adult children, President Hospital Auxiliary, Wms Co. Habitat for Humanity Board Standing Committee 3 year term (vote for one) Mike Huffaker (Sugar Creek West) Current: (District) Ordained Minister, Pastor Sugar Creek West Church of the Brethren, Central Committee Member Former: (Church) From , I served on the Nominating Committee for Virlina District CoB, I served as a leader to NYC in 2014, I was a delegate to Annual Conference in 2009 and 2011 Personal: Married to Laura, 4 children, 2 teenagers Jarred and Kamryn, one adult stepdaughter, Ashley, who lives in Virginia, 3 grandchildren, and 1 adult daughter, Lauren, who lives in Delaware. *Ben Polzin (Poplar Ridge) Current: (District) Ordained Minister, Pastor Poplar Ridge Church of the Brethren, Standing Committee Delegate Former: (Church) Potsdam CoB-Coordinator of Special Ministries, New Life Christian Fellowship s Campus Group-Activities Director, Southern Ohio District Youth Cabinet Advisor, Brethren camp counselor, host of Lenten service with area Churches of the Brethren, Area Clergy Fellowship Personal: Married to Katie, member of local ministry association, mentor for community youth through juvenile court program. 14 P a g e

16 Good Shepherd Home Board of Trustees 3 year term (vote for one) Rhonda Schulte (Dupont) Current: None at this time Former: (Church) Ladies Fellowship Officer, Sunday School teacher, Bible School Personal: Married to Wayne (39 years), 2 adult daughters, married with 4 grandchildren, RN for 27 years, retired but not retired on as needed basis, Breast Cancer survivor, love to garden, travel and spend time with family; mission trip to Honduras with church, medical mission trip to Haiti. West View Healthy Living Board of Trustees 3 year term (vote for one) Edith Kieffaber (Akron Eastwood) Current: (Church) Deacon Chair, Assistant Witness Commission, Assistant Sunday School teacher Former: (District) District Board member, Delegate to Standing Committee of Annual Conference, local CROP Walk co-coordinator; (Church) Witness Chair, Church Clerk Personal: Single, retired LPN, volunteer local food cupboard 15 P a g e

17 Camp Administration Committee 3 year term (vote for three) Nelson Hunt (Ashland First) Current: (Church) Media Team, District Conference Delegate Former: (Church) Work and Witness Mission trips in US and Belize; Worship Team, Choir Personal: Married to Tina (39 years), 2 daughters, Ann and Beth, 3 grandchildren, love to cook. Diane Russell (Poplar Ridge) Current: (Church) Church Board Chair, Christian Ed. Commission, Pioneer Club Director, Women s Work Director, Organist Former: (Church) Church Board, Music & Worship Commission, VBS, Music Director Personal: Widowed, 2 sons, 4 grandchildren; Defiance Community Band, Big Band Sound, Black Swamp Community Orchestra *Jim Shives (Akron Eastwood) Current: (District) Camp Administration Committee Chair (3 years), Structural Engineer for Camp; (Church) Treasurer Former: (District) Structural Engineer for Camp (Consultant); (Church) Sunday School Teacher (2yr olds), Personal: Married to Julie, 3 adult children, 5 grandchildren, CFO for GPD Group, Akron, OH, GPD Charities Foundation, Brethren Disaster Ministries *Sierra Swanson (Brook Park Community) Current: (District) Camp Administration Committee; (Church) Camp Representative Former: (District) Camp Program Committee; (Church) Christian Ed. Chair, Board Member, Pastoral Search Committee member Personal: Married to Josh, 3 children, Nick, Elizabeth, and Mathew; I am an elementary teacher. 16 P a g e

18 District Staff Reports District Executive Report As I write this report, I have just completed one full year as District Executive for the Northern Ohio District. Including my 15 months as Interim DE, I have been serving in this role for almost 2½ years. It is an honor and joy to be called to this position of service in our District. My report is divided into the categories that are the focus of my service. Relationships / Listening to individuals and congregations within the district. I see increased connection throughout the district as we fellowship, learn, and support one another. I see more joy, more laughter, and more deeper cooperation as we work together. I am appreciative of the good work the board continues to do - and I see God moving through these things. I continue worshiping in different congregations on Sunday mornings. Visiting in churches on Sunday morning is rich time together and one of the great joys of my ministry. I attend revival services and funeral/memorial services when possible. Attending council meetings and board meetings as time allows. Attending socials and community outreach events for individual churches as time allows. I ask for your help in identifying these other events in the life of our churches where I can connect to form and deepen relationships. Ministerial Leadership I oversee Pastoral Placement, working closely with Ministry Commission in calling, credentialing, and providing continuing education. I am currently working with 6 churches in various stages of the search process. Two have completed negotiations and have scheduled their congregational call vote; 2 are actively interviewing. An updated pastoral placement report is in the Pastor s Memo each month. Held Area Clergy meetings in the Fall (7 sessions) and Spring (3 sessions). Fall meetings focused on sharing, fellowship, prayer. The Spring meetings has Deb Oskin joining us via web to teach on Clergy Taxes and the New Tax Law. Conducted the Pastors Workshop on two different dates at the District Office. The conversation at each was rich as we learned from each other. I continue to ask you to encourage those in your congregations that have the gifts for pastoral ministry to explore that call. The need is great. With Buckeye Brethren Institute (BBI), a training program for pastoral education now in our district, ministerial education is available and affordable for those who will not be pursuing a graduate degree in ministry. Congregational Ministries While many good things are happening in the district, we can t ignore the deep struggle of some of the congregations in our District. We have a number of churches at risk of closing within the next 5 years. Providing resources and information is helpful, but not enough. We need to be seeking revival, committing ourselves to prayer, seeking ways to share our hope in Christ, reaching out to serve those in our communities, and walking alongside our sister churches. I am working closely with the Congregational Commission as we (1) seek to strengthen existing churches and (2) look for places God may be calling us to start new ones. Planning for Shalom Team training in the fall. Administration/Governance - General administrative oversight tasks and working closely with District Board Leadership. I attend the Executive Committee, District Board, Nominating Committee, and Central Committee meetings. In all things listed above, I am working closely with the appropriate Commission members and Executive Committee. The District Board is a group of committed brothers and sisters in Christ that serve the district and I am privileged to work with them. My special appreciation to Tom Zuercher who has served as District Board Chair for the past two years. His leadership, wisdom, and experience have been invaluable during this time of transition for our district. This year we examined the board structure and made changes to the Commissions in ways that we hope will better serve the needs of the district. A new Connections Commission will focus on fostering connections between congregations and people to encourage spiritual growth, fellowship and service. 17 P a g e

19 I attend the Camp Administration Committee meetings as often as I can and greatly appreciate all the kingdom work that is being done there. Work closely with paid and volunteer staff to ensure that they have what they need to carry out their ministries. The district is blessed to have such an amazing group serving in these roles. Julie, Esther, Linda, Lisa, and Jen you are greatly appreciated! Worked closely with the District Conference Central Committee as they planned 2018 District Conference. Denominational Attended the Midwest CODE meeting April 8-9 in Bethany, followed by a training event specifically for DE s at Bethany on the Bethany covered the cost of our training/hotel/food during that event and I am very grateful. Attended Council of District Executive (CODE) Meetings in January in Melbourne, Florida. An additional meeting of CODE was scheduled in Richmond, Indiana on April to hear more about the compelling vision process and continue working together on the concerns for our church. There was meaningful worship and an awareness that we face spiritual struggles; that while we can work at a process only God can bring healing and hope. We have committed to pray for each other and work together as the Church of the Brethren works through a Compelling Vision process, seeking God s vision for our church. The guiding statement of this process reads: Confessing Jesus Christ as Teacher, Redeemer, and Lord, we desire to serve Him by proclaiming, professing, and walking in His way together bringing His peace to our broken world. Join us in reclaiming a new passion for Christ and helping set a course for our future as the Church of the Brethren serving Him in our communities and in the world! It is our intention that conversations about this vision will start with Jesus Christ as the center of our existence as a denomination. The focus on Jesus in this process gives me hope! Together with the other Mid-West DE s, I helped coordinate a workshop on Conversations on Biblical Authority held at Hueston Woods in the Dayton area April Professional growth/personal time Attended the Clergy Clinic in Family Emotional Process through the Lombard Mennonite Peace Center. This was held in three- 3-day sessions (Oct., Feb., April) I have been taking Wednesday as my day off but will be changing to Mondays soon. I think that will better meet the needs of the district. Repeated Call to Prayer which I repeat here again! I see evidence of the Holy Spirit working throughout our District in new ways some small and some more systemic. I ask that we continue to surround our churches and District with prayer, seeking guidance and providing encouragement and support to each other. Many conversations are happening throughout the denomination as we seek clarity on who we are as the Church of the Brethren. Please pray for wisdom, discernment, and God s Power in all these things. Blessings, Kris Hawk, District Executive Minister Statistics 2017 Miles Hours Search Committee Call Vote Church Boards Sunday am Worship Other Worship Services Installations Fellowship Events District Level Meetings 2017 totals Sunday Other Fellowship Level District Statistics 2018 Search Call Installations Boards Worship Services Events Meetings Church am Worship Miles Hours Committee Vote Jan Feb March April May YTD Totals P a g e

20 District Youth Coordinator What a great year! Working with Junior High and Senior High Youth certainly has its adventures, but it is a real joy to watch them learn and grow spiritually, socially, and emotionally. Being a teenager is tougher now than it ever has been, and I'm thankful that I can have a small role in guiding and leading our district's youth through the difficult times and celebrating with them during the joyous times. It is difficult to maintain consistency in youth ministry, but I continue to plan events and pray that they are purposeful and God-glorifying. The District Youth Program continues to grow and transform as we strive to develop youth who are faithfully involved while testing new activities and finding creative ways to draw new youth into the program. I work with both the Jr. High and Sr. High Youth Cabinets to plan activities and organize events. Junior High Since District Conference 2017, our Jr. High Youth have participated in three rallies: New Philadelphia COB (10 youth/ 3 churches), Dupont COB (18 youth/ 6 churches), and Akron Springfield COB (9 youth/2 churches). Our Jr. High Youth are committed to the program and enjoy spending time with each other while learning about Jesus. It is so neat to observe these events. We incorporate a service project in to each rally, and the youth are effectively serving others in the communities around them. Senior High For Sr. High, we introduced something new: the Leadership Series. This series was started with the goal for our Sr. High to gain leadership skills. Many of our high school youth are active at Inspiration Hills, at church, and at school in academic clubs or on sports teams. Our first Leadership Session had 7 youth (4 congregations, and our second Leadership Session had 12 youth (8 congregations). Youth participated in team-building exercises and were exposed to a variety of speakers presenting on topics including, but not limited to, Personality Types, Leading with Integrity, Defining Leadership, Conflict Resolution, Leadership in Film, and How Relationships and Anxiety Affect our Ability to Lead. This Series was purposeful, insightful, and full of quality material. Our Sr. High attended Powerhouse Regional Youth Conference at Camp Mack in the fall. Nine youth and three adults from 5 congregations represented our district. Combined Events At times, we combine both Jr. and Sr. High since most of our churches youth programs function as a combined group. There were several activities planned that were open to both Jr. and Sr. High Youth. 40 youth from 14 different congregations participated in our 2017 District Conference last year! In September, 13 youth and 7 advisors (5 congregations) met at Cedar Point for a day. Rather than plan conflicting events, 24 District Youth and advisors attended Dupont COB s yearly activity, Recharge, in November. In February and March, area events were planned. Depending on the area, youth could meet up for roller skating or bowling. Total, 24 youth and 9 advisors (9 congregations) attended these events. For the second year in a row, youth met to help prepare Inspiration Hills for the summer by attending our Service and Fun Day. Youth worked hard, and the camp fed us well as we served the camp we all love so much. 10 youth and 8 adults (9 congregations) participated. Young Adults The Young Adult Program had two planned events since District Conference 2017: Game Night (15) and Progressive Dinner (7). It is unclear how much of a desire or need there is for Young Adult Activities. Any input or helpful information would be appreciated. Feel free to contact me to get involved! 19 P a g e

21 Youth Leader Training For Youth Leaders and others, I planned a training on Sexual Integrity and Pornography in January. 22 adults joined together to hear from Bill Quigley, Youth Ministry Professor from Malone University. This was planned as an informational session as well to give guidance on how to have these difficult conversations with youth. This event received positive feedback, and planning for future trainings are already in process. National Youth Conference Senior High Youth are gearing up for NYC in July. Currently, we have youth or advisors from 10 churches (approximately 60 people) registered to attend. My wish is that our time at NYC will bring us closer to Jesus while giving youth opportunity to get to know each other in a different atmosphere and strengthen their relationships with each other. Many youth attend NYC who do not regularly attend District Youth events, and my hope is that this will be a starting point for their involvement. In addition to the events and activities previously listed, I continue to work closely and communicate with the Program Committee and staff at Inspiration Hills, the Central Committee (as I am responsible for the youth schedule at District Conference), and the Connections Commission (previously Fellowship) for the District Board. I attend the majority of these meetings when appropriate and when youth events do not conflict. There are several ways to stay up to date on youth events throughout the year. Like and follow our Facebook page: Northern Ohio District COB Youth Ministry. to the number to receive occasional texts. esther@nohcob.org to be put on a mailing list. Check our website often: I pray this ministry will continue to be a resource for our youth to strengthen their relationship with Jesus as they continue to learn more about who they are as children of God. Thank you for the continued opportunity to work with the youth in our District. In Him, Esther Harsh, District Youth Coordinator 20 P a g e

22 District Peace Advocate Linda Fry District Conference 2018 Greetings in Christ Jesus: I am in my eleventh year as District Peace and Conciliation Advocate. These things continue to be part of my work: Meeting regularly with the District Board and commissions. Working with the Peace Task Team. (The team is in the process of reorganizing. New people were appointed to the committee in May 2018) Working with the Shalom Team. (The team is in the process of reorganizing. New people were appointed to the committee in May 2018) Publishing the Peace Advocate News quarterly (40 issues are in print) Research and reading are ongoing as I work on the newsletter and on providing resources for the district. Prepare resource materials for youth and congregations Serve on the Ashland Center for Nonviolence (ACN) Steering Committee (in the 1 st year of my second 3-year term). ACN works with Ashland University and the larger Ashland community to promote nonviolence as an alternative to violence when handling conflict. They: o Provide training and educational programs on peacemaking and peacemaking issues o promote the use of mediation. o Work in local schools (particularly Taft Elementary in Ashland) teach conflict resolution skills and mentor at risk students. They also work to prevent bullying. This year I: was one of several presenters at the October 21 (Good Shepherd Home) SISTERS retreat. The focus was on ways of serving others. attend regular steering committee meetings and most ACN programs. ACN programs are open to the public. Find details at attended Making Modern Memory: Peace and War in an age of Remembering with Nigel Young, Oct. 23. (ACN sponsored) attended the lecture and Workshop with Dr. Susan Glisson and Charles Tucker on January They work with communities in conflict where race is a factor, including Birmingham, AL where there are tensions between the community and the police. They use a circle process to encourage and atmosphere of openness and trust in which dialog can take place. They demonstrated how the process works in the workshop. It was a good presentation. Their work is making a difference! (ACN sponsored) attended the 4 th Annual John D. Stratton Conference February 24. The topic this year was Nonviolence in Theory and Practice. There were presentations ranging from Nonviolence & Restorative Justice in the Life and Teachings of Paul to Sensitizing Young Men to Issues of Rape. There were many good presentations more than one person could take in. (ACN sponsored) attended The District Disabilities Training event with Debbie Eisenbise on March 17 at Mohican attended a presentation by Seth Wispelwey on March 18. Seth is one of the pastors in Charlottesville who organized a peaceful response to the white supremacist demonstrations and violence over the confederate monuments issue. He shared what it is like to live and raise children in a place where public spaces are dominated by symbols which remember and inspire racism. He also talked about what it was like to be on the receiving end of violent raciest attacks while trying to be a peaceful prayerful presence in the city. (ACN sponsored) attended Biblical Authority Conversations April sponsored by the Church of the Brethren District in the central region. I attempt to stay in touch with peace making issues that are ongoing or come up in the world and share information and resources through the Peace Advocate News and the District website. These include: the continuing situation in Nigeria. Nearly 100 of the Chibok school girls abducted by Boko Haram in 2014 are still missing more than 4 years later. They are among more than 2,000 women and children still in Boko Haram hands. Mass abductions and village raids continue. EYN (The Church of the Brethren in Nigeria) continues the enormous tack of helping those displaces as well as working to rebuild churches and communities all while still under threat. 21 P a g e

23 The plight of refugees around the world including people seeking asylum at the U.S. border. The growing numbers of people in the world who are living with violence every day including people in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bangladesh, Somalia, Syria, Yemen, Niger, much of Central America, and Myanmar to name a few. Some are facing genocide, and some are facing famine in addition to violence. In the Democratic Republic of Congo an Ebola out brake has begun. The people of Porto Rico still trying to recover from hurricane Maria that devastated the island September 20, A recent Harvard study has found that the official death total (64) from the storm is way off. The actual death total is 4,600. The government still has not responded appropriately to the needs of many of the people affected, and the island is now facing a new hurricane season. I have revised the peace portion of the District website. There are a number of resources offered there including: The Peace Advocate News Practical Peacemaking Tips News from the Peace Tack Team and Shalom Team as they get reorganized Occasional Peace News Notes on situations in the world needing our prayers and help A Moment to Pray for Peace a new resource for worship or personal devotion to be updated weekly. Making peace cannot happen without seeking justice and justice must be tempered by mercy. Seeking vengeance, revenge, retribution, or only political capital does not bring either peace or justice especially when innocent people are involved. Do not judge, so that you may not be judged. For with the judgment you make you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get. Why do you see the speck in your neighbor s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? Or how can you say to your neighbor, Let me take the speck out of your eye, while the log is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your neighbor s eye. Matthew 7:1-5 District Board Commission & Appointment Reports District Board report for District Conference book May 21, 2018 Submitted by District Board Chair: Tom Zuercher District Board The District Board of the Northern Ohio District Church of the Brethren is composed of 18 elected members (three year terms) and 12 ex-officio members. The Board normally meets four times per year: once at Camp Inspiration Hills, and then once in each region of the District - west, central, and east. The Executive Committee of the Board meets three times during the year at the District Office in Ashland. Most of our work focuses on implementing the actions of District Conference, facilitating the work of the Commissions, giving oversight to our excellent staff, and visioning ways to connect with and enhance the ministries of the congregations in our District. Highlights from this past year include: *The approval of fourteen Hottle Grants for individual congregations, and the adoption of revised guidelines for Hottle Grant applications. *Recommending congregational status for the Faith in Action fellowship located in Delta, Ohio. *Taking initial steps to sell the Water Street facility (Kent) with the intent that proceeds will be used to establish new church development within the District in the future. 22 P a g e

24 *Celebrating the Accreditation of Buckeye Brethren Institute, our own training program for individuals called to ministry here in our own District. BBI has been an amazing success, and it continues to grow stronger with each class. *Responding to the Annual Conference Officers request regarding the Query passed by our District Conference in 2017: Questions for the Mission and Ministry Board and Agencies of the Church of the Brethren. We were asked to give the officers a year to allow for the implementation of changes that deal with the concern of the query, and the District Board agreed to that request. *Recommending the Resolution on Same-Sex Marriages that will be considered at this District Conference. *Monitoring District finances and the procedures in place to ensure fiscal accountability. This includes the preparation of the recommended 2019 District Budget which comes to this District Conference for consideration. We appreciate the growth in self-allocation support from the congregations and that, combined with careful spending, has allowed us to continue to operate in the black. But as the income from the Hottle funds diminishes in future years, diligent efforts will be necessary to Bridge The Gap (between income and expenses) and ensure that District ministries are financially stable. *Adopted a restructuring of our four current Commissions in order to maximize our resources for assigned tasks and ministry goals. When the District Board reorganizes at the close of this District Conference, the four new Commissions will be: Ministerial, Congregational, Connections, and Stewardship & Finance. The members of the District Board work diligently throughout the year, and it has been a privilege for me to serve as Chair. The partnership of dedicated Board members and our outstanding Staff members produces effective ministry for the Kingdom of God here in Northern Ohio. Respectfully Submitted, Tom Zuercher Congregational Commission The Congregational Commission set five goals for the upcoming year at our organizational meeting in August of Our goals were to identify and equip additional members for the Peace Task Team and Shalom Team; to explore and promote church growth opportunities; to establish and improve connections with the Congregational Commission and all churches in the Northern Ohio District; to encourage churches to access the Hottle Grants and recommend the appropriate grants to the District Board; and to assist in the process of fellowships moving toward church status. Our commission had four members, so we divided the District into four shepherding groups. We did contact each church by written communication and worked with many of the churches. We recognized that it was crucial that our churches envision opportunities made available to them through the Hottle Grant. Articles were written for the newsletter explaining how to apply for a grant and how other churches are expanding their ministries through these grants. One major area we addressed was to revise the Hottle Grant guidelines and the Hottle Grant application form. These revisions were presented to the District Board and approved. The revised guidelines and application forms are now available. Our commission also developed a guideline for follow-up. 23 P a g e

25 The Congregational Commission approved the following Hottle Grant applications that were presented to the District Board for final approval. We were pleased to approve the following Hottle Grants: Brook Park Church of the Brethren for Audrey s Outreach to help free food distribution to families in need. (1 in October 2017 and 1 in March 2018) Silver Creek Church of the Brethren to add to their carpet fund. Mansfield First Church of the Brethren for video and multi-media equipment for the sanctuary and fellowship hall. Eden Church of the Brethren for a handicap ramp and audio visual system. (1 in September 2017 and 1 in March 2018) Lake Breeze Church of the Brethren to update and improve sewage system. Elm Street Church of the Brethren for the Wheelhouse bicycle ministry. Pleasant View Church of the Brethren for the Hymnal Plus system. Zion Hill Church of the Brethren to update the audio visual system. Ashland First Church of the Brethren for structural repairs. Paradise Church of the Brethren for a digital hymnal. Mount Pleasant Church of the Brethren for a marriage enrichment retreat. Akron Eastwood Church of the Brethren for a disability lift. All in all, 14 grants were given for a total of $65, As noted these were granted for everything from food pantry programs to bicycle ministries, from publicity in the community to enriching the worship space in the churches. In addition to the above grants, a check in the amount of $858.15, was given to each church in the district, representing the remaining balance for The Congregational Commission recommended to District Board that the Faith In Action Church of the Brethren Fellowship be commissioned as Congregation in the Northern Ohio District Church of the Brethren and requested that this recommendation be sent to District Conference At this time, the Northern Ohio District has only one Fellowship, Jonah s People in Fostoria. After the closing of Water Street Church of the Brethren, Congregational Commission researched the need for a Church of the Brethren in the Kent, Ohio area. Respectfully Submitted, Barbara Wilch, Congregational Commission Chair; Frank Pettigrew, Vice-Chair; Tina Hunt, Secretary; and James Washington, Member 24 P a g e

26 Jonah s People Fellowship, Fostoria District Conference Report, 2018 This has been a different kind of year for Jonah s People. Pastor Barry Belknap was diagnosed with cancer in November and was absent during his 6.5 months of treatments. Like any church in crisis, the focus shifted from growing to maintaining the programs and quality of congregational life. Thanks to the leadership of Interim Scott Hall, Chaplain Jerry Copeland, Chris Widman, Kris Hawk, Barb Wilch and the Steering Committee, this goal was achieved. Barry returned to pastor the church on May 15. The current membership is 17 with an average worship attendance of 35. Individual giving is increasing slowly. The Monday Night Supper and Fellowship Hour maintains a strong following. Jonah s People has become a major contributor to the food bank ministry at High Street Methodist Church. With Barry s return, the Steering Committee will be working on the following major initiatives: Developing specific strategies to build the membership Creating a broader music program Defining a concept of member stewardship for both talent and resources Creating more possibilities for community ministry Jonah s People is grateful for the ongoing support from the district and Good Shepherd Home. Respectfully submitted, Pastor Barry A. Belknap 25 P a g e

27 Business Item #2 Faith in Action Recommendation Recommendation: The District Board recommends that the Faith in Action Church of the Brethren Fellowship be commissioned as a Congregation in the Northern Ohio District Church of the Brethren. Background: Faith in Action was started as a house-church in East Toledo in January of Faith in Action was born to share the love of Jesus with those in the community, especially to minister to those who may feel uncomfortable in the traditional church. The church moved to a vacant school building in Ai, Ohio in April of 2005 and began providing life-issue ministry (food, transportation, school supplies, transportation to drug and alcohol counseling, jail ministry, job search assistance) to those living in the mobile home court across from the school. On September 16, 2006, the District Board recommended that Faith in Action be accepted as a new fellowship of the Northern Ohio District Church of the Brethren. At District Conference in July of 2007, Faith in Action Fellowship (FIAF) was officially received. Church Extension Funds were used to support this new Fellowship and to purchase a building in Delta, Ohio where they began worshipping in January FIAF received an additional grant from the Church Extension Fund of $ in 2012 which was paid out over a three-year period. Since that time, they have been self-sufficient through tithes and offerings. The district has paid only insurance on the building which we currently own. If this recommendation is accepted by the delegate body, the building will be transferred to Faith in Action by action of the District Board. Jim Gorrell has served as pastor since the beginning of the ministry, working closely with a Steering Committee. Terry Baldwin has served as Moderator. The Steering Committee has completed and the fellowship accepted a Constitution and Bylaws that outlines their structure moving forward as a Congregation. They have incorporated in the State of Ohio. Faith in Action is a teaching fellowship with the real ministry taking place where the people work and live. Sunday mornings are fully interactive. Worship times consist of active music, periodic dramas, teaching/sermon with congregational participation, and prayer. They take no offering during the worship service; tithes and offerings can be placed in a small box on a back table. One Sunday a month there is a meal for those who attend Sunday morning service as well as for any others who stop in just to get something to eat. Friday evenings are spent in Bible study and twice a month they have Friday evening meals together. Their annual Seder meal brings as many as 60 to observe the Passover meal, seeing the words and sacrifice of Jesus in the light of this service. FIAF observes other Jewish holidays as well as the Passover, seeing Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophesies. Neighborhood assistance is provided through the Compassion Fund, including assistance with car repair/purchase, housing rental and utility assistance, school supplies and Christmas gifts for the neighborhood children. In conjunction with Shalom Farm, housing, drug and alcohol rehabilitation assistance, and employment assistance has been provided. 26 P a g e

28 Discipleship Commission 2017 started off with a change to the Discipleship Commission. The Commission saw Bruce Jacobsen, Pastor of Mt. Pleasant COB move to Ministerial Commission and we added Chris Snyder, Treasurer of Hartville COB, as our Secretary. Returning members are: Maria Nichols of Lakewood COB, as Commission Chair; David Bassett of Pleasant View COB as Vice-Chair; and Ed Chase of Poplar Ridge as member. Jen s term may be re- Discipleship Commission re-appointed Jen Recker as District Financial Secretary. appointed in The Discipleship Commission has oversight of the District s financials and maintenance of properties. With the closure of the Water Street COB in Kent, the Discipleship Commission recommended to the District Board, the land and buildings be placed for sale. The Discipleship Commission recommended the real estate owned by the Northern Ohio District Church of the Brethren in Delta, Ohio, be transferred to Faith in Action Church of the Brethren, Inc., once they are approved for commissioning as a congregation at District Conference At the September District Board meeting the Discipleship Commission was challenged to come up with a graph showing the changes to the Hottle Grant disbursements, which were made at the District Conference. David Basset came up with a graph showing what the financials would look like each year for the next 8 years. It included Self Allocations staying the same, District Expenses increasing, the Hottle Grant disbursements reducing each year and the impact this has on the District Finances. Ultimately, the answer is increase of Self Allocations to offset the loss of the Hottle Grant disbursements and a reduction of District Expenses. It sounds easy; however, it is not easy. We are challenging each church in the Northern Ohio District Church of the Brethren to prayerfully find a way to increase your Self Allocation to the District each year. This past year has been extremely challenging. We are looking forward to what God has in store for the year. Respectfully submitted, Maria Nichols, Discipleship Commission Chair; David Bassett, Vice-Chair; Chris Snyder, Secretary; and Ed Chase, Member Fellowship (Connections) Team Fellowship Commission One of the Fellowship Commission's focuses this year has been to encourage and support our District Youth Worker, Esther. She has been very busy and doing a great job. Thank you, Esther. (Please see her individual report). We hosted a "Disability Training" workshop with Debbie Eisenbise from the Anabaptist Disabilities Network. We had a great day learning and getting to know each other more. Check out the district website resources for continued information as we seek to be accessible and accepting congregations. The SISTERS Women's Ministry group had two great retreats this year. Last fall at the Good Shepherd home we had opportunity to spend some time getting to know the residents, then this spring at Round Lake Camp with Pastor Joy Sherman. Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 27, 2018 as we will gather again at Inspiration Hills. The SISTERS team (Fern Dews, Tina Hunt, Marlene Shoup, Sandra Washington, Janis Turk and Billi Janet) enjoy serving the ladies of the district and look forward to each retreat. 27 P a g e

29 The Men's Fellowship is still seeking to restart. Why? There are many reasons: Spiritual growth; encouragement; service, and don't forget time to retreat. These items are just as important for men as they are women. Please contact Dean Foster if you are interested in serving on this team. As we look forward to 2019 and changing focus to the "Connections" team we are praying and brainstorming on how to assist the people of N. Ohio District. What resources do our congregations need? How can we build connections encouraging each other in spiritual growth, fellowship, and service? Serving and Learning Together, Billi Janet Burkey, Fellowship Commission Chair; Dean Foster, Vice-Chair; Jean Garcia, Secretary; and Ellen Speicher, Member Ministerial Commission It is once again time for Show and Tell. Actually, it is more Tell than Show. I remember finding something outside or in the house taking it to school and the excitement of showing it off. We are excited to tell what has happened this past year, but it isn t what we did or found but what God has done and is doing. The Ministry Commission has been busy, ending last year with sending the Resolution on Same-Sex Marriage to the District Board, which is now before this conference. Last Fall Janet Ober Lambert, Director Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership was at our Fall meeting in November and presented us with a certificate for our BBI training. This means Buckeye Brethren Institute is an Academy Certified Training System ACTS, we are Official! Since we now have our own training program we created a new position Ministry Education Director it replaces TRIM Coordinator and it is filled with a familiar name, Paul Bozman. Paul is now the Ministry Education Director. We also had a few interviews: 3 were recommended for Ordination, and 1 for Commissioning. We have been excited about the work of meeting the people God has called to serve His people. We as a commission are very excited, and we take this work very seriously, covering each interview with a lot of prayer. As we embark on the beginning of another year of service as a Commission we covet your prayers for the work so we can stay focused, driven, and thankful for the opportunity to serve. God Bless You, Steve Simmons, Ministerial Commission Chair; Vaughn Loose, Vice-Chair; Bruce Jacobsen, Secretary; Ira Good, Member 28 P a g e

30 District Treasurer 2017 has been a year of fine tuning financial policies and procedures in the District Office. Many of these procedures have been in place for a while, but now are written down and have been reviewed and approved by the Discipleship Commission and Executive Committee. Thanks to Kris Hawk for her diligence on this project. We completed a financial review by HW and Co for the 2016 financial documents and at this time, policy and procedures were also reviewed. Copies of these reports are available to review if requested. In addition to this formal review, we continue to have monthly accountant review of our accounts and QuickBooks software by accountant Jody Bartter. Her monthly review results are sent electronically to myself, Julie Watson, Kris Hawk and Discipleship Chair. You will see in the financial reports for 2017 that we have added two new accounts. We separated the endowment portion of the former Student Ministers Fund from the spendable portion. There are now accounts labeled Student Ministers Fund (those available for use) and Sampson Endowment Fund. Both of these funds are at Brethren Foundation. In addition, funds that were present in a separate Women s Fellowship checking account have been transferred to a new saving account for Women s Fellowship held by the District. District Board has had discussions about their desire to bring self allocations income and the district budget expenses into alignment, thus being not so dependent on the distributions from the Hottle Memorial Fund. As a reminder, last year at District Conference, it was decided to provide Inspiration Hills and the Grant fund for churches the same amount of distributions from the Hottle Fund in This means that both Inspiration Hills and the District Budget will receive $82, in 2017 from this fund, and that this same amount is available for grants to churches. As of June 1, $23, has been granted to 6 churches in In this endeavor to bring income and expenses closer together, several churches have increased their self allocations and for that, we say thank you! I would also like to challenge each congregation to consider increasing district giving for future years budgets. There are many details in the financial reports to review, please let me know if you have any questions or concern. I appreciate those in our district that pay attention to the fine details and ask questions. Lisa Snyder District Treasurer 29 P a g e

31 2017 Balance Sheet Dec 31, 17 Dec 31, 16 ASSETS Current Assets Checking/Savings 1001 Farmers - Checking Account 22, , Farmers - District Conference 9, , Farmers - Youth Sch Fund 4, , BF- Church Extension Fund 298, , BF- Hottle Memorial Fund 1,787, ,833, BF- Peace Endowment 47, , BF- Student Ministers Fund 25, , BF- District Disaster Ministry 33, , BF-Sampson Endowment 116, Womens Fellowship Savings 1, Total Checking/Savings 2,346, ,344, Accounts Receivable 1500 Accounts Receivable Total Accounts Receivable Other Current Assets 1610 Accounts Receivable - Kristen B 376, , Allowance for Doubtful Accounts -368, , Undeposited Funds 3, , Total Other Current Assets 12, , Total Current Assets 2,358, ,365, TOTAL ASSETS 2,358, ,365, LIABILITIES & EQUITY Liabilities Current Liabilities Accounts Payable 2000 Accounts Payable 2, , Total Accounts Payable 2, , Total Current Liabilities 2, , Total Liabilities 2, , Equity 2501 Unrestricted Net Assets 2,361, ,619, Net Income -5, , Total Equity 2,356, ,361, TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 2,358, ,365, P a g e

32 2017 Profit & Loss Jan - Dec 17 Jan - Dec 16 Ordinary Income/Expense Income 3000 Self Allocations 3005 Bethany Seminary Income 1, , Church of the Brethren M&M 2, , District Disaster Self Allocation 1, District Self Allocation 120, , Good Shepherd Self Allocation 1, , Inspiration Hills Self Allocation 29, , Manchester Univ. Self Allocation 2, , Westview Healthy Living Allocation 1, , Total 3000 Self Allocations 159, , Church Property Funds 3115 Other Church Property Income Total 3100 Church Property Funds Other Income 3205 District Conference Income 13, , Non-designated donations , District peace work income 1, Student Minister's Fund Income 3, , Youth Senior High Other Income - Other , Total 3200 Other Income 18, , Total Income 177, , Gross Profit 177, , Expense 5100 Discipleship Commission 5101 Commission Expense Disaster Travel and Expenses 2, , VOAD dues Financial Secretary Honorarium 1, Treasurer Honorarium 2, , Audit Fees , Total 5100 Discipleship Commission 5, , Fellowship Commission 5201 Commission Expense Education Training Junior High Cabinet Youth Fellowship 1, Women's Fellowship Men's Fellowship Young Adult Ministry District Library Child Protect/Background Total 5200 Fellowship Commission 1, Congregational Commission 5301 Commission Expense Leadership Training Total 5300 Congregational Commission , Ministerial Commission 5401 Commission Expense Pastor/Spouse Retreat 4, , New Pastor's Expense TRIM Expenses Pastoral Ed. Expense 1, Licensed Ministry Testing Ministerial Background Check Total 5400 Ministerial Commission 6, , P a g e

33 2017 Profit & Loss, Page 2 Jan - Dec 17 Jan - Dec 17 Jan - Dec District Executive 5501 D.E. Salary 51, , Housing Expense 12, , Health Insurance , Health Savings Account Workers' Compensation Travel & Expenses 8, , Annual Conference 1, CODE Dues Retirement expense 7, , Professional Expenses 1, Total 5500 District Executive 83, , District Office 5606 Office Administrative Expenses Office Equipment Repair Office Equipment - Leased 3, , Telephone 1, , Computer on-line Herald & Directories 4, , Utilities 2, , Groundskeeping 1, , Facility Security Facility Maintenance 3, , Real Estate Taxes 2, , Office Supplies 1, , Dues & Subscriptions 3, , Office Equipment - New Congregational Background Check Postage 1, , Total 5600 District Office 29, , District Admin Secretary 5601 Secretary Wages 23, , Health Insurance SS/Medicare Taxes 1, , Workers' Compensation Prof Growth - Travel & Expenses Retirement expense 1, , Total 5650 District Admin Secretary 28, , District Youth Worker 5701 Salary 15, , SS/Medicare Taxes 1, , Health Insurance , Workers' Compensation Travel 2, , Professional Growth Total 5700 District Youth Worker 19, , District Peace Worker 5801 Salary 5, , SS/Medicare/Taxes Workers' Compensation Total 5800 District Peace Worker 6, , P a g e

34 2017 Profit & Loss, Page 3 Jan - Dec 17 Jan - Dec 17 Jan - Dec District Board 5901 District Board Expense 4, , Annual Conference Expenses 3, , Ohio Council of Churches 1, , Standing Committee Delegate , Legal Fees , District Liability Insurance 3, , Financial Services Fee , Memorials Investment Admin Fees 12, , Executive Committee Expense Total 5900 District Board 27, , Self-Allocation Payments 6005 Bethany Seminary 1, , Church of the Brethren M and M 2, , Good Shepherd 1, , Inspiration Hills Self Allocation 29, , Manchester University 2, , Student Minister's Fund 3, Westview Healthy Living 1, , Total 6000 Self-Allocation Payments 40, , Non-budget Church Expense 6106 Jonah's People Grant 32, , Water Street 5, Total 6100 Non-budget Church Expense 37, , Non-Budget Expenses 6210 District Conference Expenses 18, , Non-Budget - Inspiration Hills 82, , Grants paid out 82, , Bank Service Charges Non-Budget Expenses - Other 11, , Total 6200 Non-Budget Expenses 194, , Total Expense 480, , Net Ordinary Income -302, , Other Income/Expense Other Income 8000 Interest Income Interest Income - BF Accounts 47, , Gain/Loss (Market Fluctuation) - BF Acct 251, , Miscellaneous Income Total Other Income 297, , Net Other Income 297, , Net Income -5, , P a g e

35 2017 Budget vs. Actual, Page 1 Jan - Dec 17 Budget $ Over Budget % of Budget Ordinary Income/Expense Income 3000 Self Allocations 3005 Bethany Seminary Income 1, Church of the Brethren M&M 2, District Disaster Self Allocation 1, District Self Allocation 120, Good Shepherd Self Allocation 1, Inspiration Hills Self Allocation 29, Manchester Univ. Self Allocation 2, Westview Healthy Living Allocation 1, Total 3000 Self Allocations 159, Church Property Funds 3115 Other Church Property Income Total 3100 Church Property Funds Other Income 3205 District Conference Income 13, Non-designated donations District peace work income 1, Student Minister's Fund Income 3, Other Income - Other Total 3200 Other Income 18, Total Income 177, Gross Profit 177, Expense 5100 Discipleship Commission 5101 Commission Expense % 5103 Disaster Rep % 5104 Disaster Travel and Expenses 2, , , % 5105 BVS Representative % 5107 VOAD dues % 5109 Financial Secretary Honorarium 1, , % 5110 Treasurer Honorarium 2, , % 5113 Audit Fees , , % Total 5100 Discipleship Commission 5, , , % 5200 Fellowship Commission 5201 Commission Expense % 5202 Education Training % 5203 Junior High Cabinet % 5204 Youth Fellowship 1, , % 5205 Women's Fellowship , % 5206 Men's Fellowship % 5207 Young Adult Ministry % 5208 District Library Child Protect/Background % Total 5200 Fellowship Commission 1, , , % 5300 Congregational Commission 5301 Commission Expense % 5302 Leadership Training % 5303 Spiritual Life Retreats % 5305 New Church Development % 5306 Peace Task Team % Total 5300 Congregational Commission , , % 34 P a g e

36 2017 Budget vs. Actual, Page 2 Jan - Dec 17 Budget $ Over Budget % of Budget 5400 Ministerial Commission 5401 Commission Expense % 5402 Pastor/Spouse Retreat 4, , , % 5403 New Pastor's Expense , , % 5404 Mentor Expenses % 5405 TRIM Expenses , % 5406 TRIM Coordinator Expenses % 5407 License & Ord. Gifts % 5410 Pastoral Ed. Expense 1, % 5411 Licensed Ministry Testing , % 5412 Ministerial Background Check % Total 5400 Ministerial Commission 6, , % 5500 District Executive 5501 D.E. Salary 51, , , % 5502 Housing Expense 12, , % 5504 Health Insurance Workers' Compensation % 5507 Travel & Expenses 8, , , % 5508 Annual Conference 1, , % 5510 CODE Dues % 5511 Retirement Expense 7, , % 5512 Professional Expenses 1, , , % Total 5500 District Executive 83, , , % 5600 District Office 5606 Office Administrative Expenses % 5607 Office Equipment Repair % 5608 Office Equipment - Leased 3, , % 5609 Telephone 1, , % 5610 Computer on-line % 5611 Herald & Directories 4, , % 5612 Utilities 2, , % 5613 Groundskeeping 1, , % 5614 Facility Security % 5615 Facility Maintenance 3, , % 5616 Real Estate Taxes 2, , % 5619 Office Supplies 1, , % 5620 Dues & Subscriptions 3, , % 5621 Office Equipment - New % 5622 Congregational Background Check Postage 1, , % Total 5600 District Office 29, , , % 5650 District Admin Secretary 5601 Secretary Wages 23, , % 5602 Health Insurance , , % 5603 SS/Medicare Taxes 1, , % 5604 Workers' Compensation % 5605 Prof Growth - Travel & Expenses % 5618 Retirement Expense 1, , % Total 5650 District Admin Secretary 28, , , % 5700 District Youth Worker 5701 Salary 15, , % 5702 SS/Medicare Taxes 1, , % 5704 Workers' Compensation % 5705 Travel 2, , , % 5706 Professional Growth % 5707 District Conference % Total 5700 District Youth Worker 19, , , % 35 P a g e

37 2017 Budget vs. Actual, Page 3 Jan - Dec 17 Budget $ Over Budget % of Budget 5800 District Peace Worker 5801 Salary 5, , % 5802 SS/Medicare/Taxes % 5803 Workers' Compensation % 5804 Computer on-line % 5805 Office Expenses % 5806 Continuing Ed. Expenses % 5807 Travel % 5808 District Conference % Total 5800 District Peace Worker 6, , % 5900 District Board 5901 District Board Expense 4, , % 5902 Annual Conference Expenses 3, , % 5903 Ohio Council of Churches 1, , % 5904 Standing Committee Delegate , , % 5905 Historical Committee % 5906 Shalom Team , , % 5907 Legal Fees , , % 5908 District Liability Insurance 3, , , % 5909 Ethics Committee % 5910 Financial Services Fee , , % 5911 Memorials % 5912 Investment Admin Fees 12, , , % 5914 Executive Committee Expense , % Total 5900 District Board 27, , , % 6000 Self-Allocation Payments 6005 Bethany Seminary 1, Church of the Brethren M and M 2, Good Shepherd 1, Inspiration Hills Self Allocation 29, Manchester University 2, Student Minister's Fund 3, Westview Healthy Living 1, Total 6000 Self-Allocation Payments 40, Non-budget Church Expense 6106 Jonah's People Grant 32, Water Street 5, Total 6100 Non-budget Church Expense 37, Non-Budget Expenses 6210 District Conference Expenses 18, Non-Budget - Inspiration Hills 82, Grants paid out 82, Bank Service Charges Non-Budget Expenses - Other 11, Total 6200 Non-Budget Expenses 194, Total Expense 480, , , % Net Ordinary Income -302, , , % Other Income/Expense Other Income 8000 Interest Income Interest Income - BF Accounts 47, Gain/Loss (Market Fluctuation) - BF Acct 251, Miscellaneous Income Total Other Income 297, Net Other Income 297, Net Income -5, , , % 36 P a g e

38 Financial Secretary Report Church 2016 Pledge Giving Pledge Giving Pledge Adrian Akron Eastwood , , , , Akron First 2, , , , Akron Springfield 6, , , , , Ashland Dickey 4, , , , , Ashland First 1, , , , , Bethel Black River , Bristolville 3, , , , , Brook Park , , Center Chippewa County Line 3, , , , Defiance Dupont 6, , , , , East Chippewa 13, , , , , East Nimishillen 1, , , , , Eden 1, , , , Elm Street , Faith in Action Freeburg , , Hartville Jonah's People Lake Breeze Lakewood 1, , , , , Lick Creek 4, , , , , Mansfield 3, , , , , Maple Grove , , , , Marion Mohican 9, , , , , Mount Pleasant 3, , , , , New Philadelphia 1, , , North Bend 5, , , , , Owl Creek 1, , , , , Painesville 3, , , , Paradise Pleasant View Poplar Ridge , , , , Reading , , , Richland Ross Silver Creek 1, , , , , Sugar Creek West 3, , , Sugarcreek East Swan Creek Water Street Woodworth Zion Hill , , , Individual TOTAL 84, , , , , P a g e

39 Business Item #3, 2019 Proposed Budget Stewardship and Finance (2018 Discipleship Commission) Actual 2017 Budget 2018 Proposed 2019 Change from Commission Expenses Disaster Representative Disaster Travel* 2, ,000-5, BVS Representative* VOAD/General Scholarship* Financial Secretary Honorarium 1, ,000 1, Treasurer Honorarium 2, ,000 2, Audit Fees ,000 10,000 Total Discipleship 5, ,750 13,100-5,650 Connections Commission (2018 Fellowship Commission) 5201 Commission Expenses Education Training Junior High Cabinet Youth Fellowship 1, SISTERS Fellowship Men's Fellowship Young Adult Ministry Sr. High Cabinet Child Protection- Background Checks Disaster Representative Disaster Travel* 4,000 +4, BVS Representative* VOAD/General Scholarship* Peace Task Team* Total Fellowship 1, ,000 8,550 +4,550 Congregational 5301 Commission Expenses Leadership Training 0 1,000 1, Spiritual Life Retreats New Church Development 0 1,500 2, Peace Task Team* Total Congregational , Comments Moved to Connections Commission Moved from Stewardship/ Finance Moved from Congregational Moved to Connections Ministerial 5401 Commission Expenses Clergy/Spouse Retreat 4, ,000 4, New Pastor's Expenses 0 1, Mentor Expenses TRIM Expenses Trim Coordinator Expenses License and Ordination Gifts Bethany Students Pastoral Education Expenses 1,000 1,000 1, Licensed Ministry Testing (LMT) Ministerial Background Checks Total Ministerial 6, ,600 7, P a g e

40 Business Item #3, 2019 Proposed Budget District Executive Actual 2017 Budget 2018 Proposed 2019 Change from Salary 51, ,100 53,663 +1, Housing Expenses 12, ,000 12, Medicare/Taxes Health Insurance Health Savings Account Workers Compensation Travel and Expenses 8, ,000 15, Annual Conference 1, ,800 1, Professional Growth 0 1,000 1, CODE dues Retirement Pension 7, ,692 7, Professional Expenses 1, ,000 1,000 Total District Executive 83, ,492 93,262 +1,770 Comments District Administrative Secretary 5601 Salary 23, ,102 25,300 +1, Health Insurance , , SS/Medicare/Taxes 1, ,929 1, Workers Compensation Professional Growth, Travel, Expenses Retirement Pension 1, ,929 2, Total District Administrative Secretary 28, ,603 30, District Office 5606 Office Administrative Expenses Office Equipment Repair Office Equipment Lease 3, ,300 4, Telephone 1, ,800 1, Computer On Line Herald and Directories 4, ,000 4, Utilities (electric, gas, water, trash) 2, ,200 3, Groundskeeping 1, ,800 1, Facility Security Facility Maintenance 3, ,000 2, Real Estate Taxes 2, ,000 2, Office Supplies 1, ,800 1, Dues and Subscriptions 3, ,600 3, Office Equipment New Congregational Background checks Postage 1, ,000 1,000 Total District Office 29, ,950 30, District Youth Coordinator 5701 Salary 15, ,450 16, SS/Medicare/Taxes 1, ,316 1, Health Insurance Workers Compensation Travel 2, ,000 4, Professional Growth District Conference Total District Youth Coordinator 19, ,216 22, P a g e

41 Business Item #3, 2019 Proposed Budget District Peace & Conciliation Advocate Actual 2017 Budget 2018 Proposed 2019 Change from Salary 5, ,750 5, SS/Medicare/Taxes Workers Compensation Computer On Line Office Expenses Continuing Ed Education Travel District Conference Health Insurance Total District Peace & Conciliation Advocate 6, ,091 7, Comments District Board Expense 5901 District Board Expenses 4, ,000 5, Annual Conference Assess 3, ,300 3, Ohio Council of Churches 1, ,600 1, Standing Com Delegates ,500 1, Historical Committee Shalom Team Legal Fees ,000 2,000-1, District Liability Insurance 3, ,350 4, Ethics Committee Financial Services Fee ,000 1,000-1, Memorial Gifts Investment Administrative Fee 12, Executive Meetings Expense ,000 1,000 Total District Board Expense 27, ,450 21,550-1,900 Total Commission Expense 13, ,050 32,300-1,750 Total Non-Commission Expense 194, , , Total Budget 208, , ,237-1,615 Income (actual / estimates) Actual Projected Projected Self-Allocations (2018 pledged amount) 120, , , Hottle Endowment Disbursement 82, ,000 76, Peace Worker Endowment Disbursement 7, ,091 7, Student Ministers Fund (LMT) see n/a Total Income 210, , , Budget vs Income Difference -32, , P a g e

42 Business Item #4 Northern Ohio District Church of the Brethren Resolution on Same-Sex Marriage Whereas: The Church of the Brethren s official position on covenantal relationships between homosexual persons is that they are an additional lifestyle option but, in the church s search for a Christian understanding of human sexuality, this alternative is not acceptable (1983 Annual Conference Statement, Human Sexuality from a Christian Perspective); and Whereas: The Church of the Brethren finished a study on the 1983 Annual Conference Statement, Human Sexuality from a Christian Perspective and again affirmed in 2011 the Church s position on the homosexual lifestyle as an alternative that is not acceptable ; and Whereas: The Church of the Brethren upholds the biblical declaration that heterosexuality is the intention of God for Creation, (1983 Annual Conference Statement on Human Sexuality from a Christian Perspective); and Whereas: The Church of the Brethren has reaffirmed a commitment to extend Christ-like comfort and grace to homosexual and bisexual persons (1983 Annual Conference Statement, Human Sexuality from a Christian Perspective). Therefore, be it resolved that the Northern Ohio District Church of the Brethren, Affirms the denominational position that covenantal relationships between homosexual persons is an additional lifestyle option but, in the church s search for a Christian understanding of human sexuality, this alternative is not acceptable (1983 Annual Conference Statement, Human Sexuality from a Christian Perspective); and a. Understands these statements to mean that the practice of homosexuality is not acceptable for members of our congregations, including leaders; b. Affirms that in keeping with the Annual Conference Statement it is the policy of the Northern Ohio District not to license, ordain, commission, or install as pastors individuals who are acknowledged practicing homosexuals; c. Affirms that regardless of state and federal laws, marriage is a God-ordained covenant that can only be entered into by one man and one woman; d. Affirms that ordained, commissioned, or licensed ministers are prohibited from performing or officiating any same sex marriage; 1. Any clergy credentialed in the Church of the Brethren in Northern Ohio that performs or officiates any same sex marriage will be referred to the District Ministerial Commission as a matter of ministerial misconduct. 2. The consequence for one performing or officiating a same sex wedding will be suspension of the ministry credentials, with continuing conversations and review with the Ministerial Commission in consultation with the District Executive. e. Affirms that the use of Northern Ohio District buildings, camps, properties, or churches for the use of same sex ceremonies is prohibited; f. Reaffirms a commitment to extend Christ-like comfort and grace to LGBT persons in the spirit of the 1983 Annual Conference Statement, Human Sexuality from a Christian Perspective; g. Affirms that the District will encourage for leadership positions those persons that uphold the teachings and beliefs of the Church of the Brethren. h. Recognizes that conversations about LGBT concerns will continue outside the query process, and in the spirit of the 1983 Annual Conference Statement, Human Sexuality from a Christian Perspective such conversations will not be deemed to violate any District policies. Recommended to District Conference by District Board 9/30/17 (adapted from Shenandoah District s resolution with permission) 41 P a g e

43 Inspiration Hills Camp Camp Administration Committee Blessings to you in in the name of the Lord, June 7, 2018 Camp Administrative Committee has been very busy in the past year. Following District Conference last year we gained three new members that have been a wonderful asset to the Committee. We have not only been working together to continue the ministry at camp but we have also been learning together as well. God has been growing us to function as a body of Christ with open lines of communication and transparency. One of the first things we took on was building a larger building for worship. After a storm went through last year, causing damage to a building, we were blessed with a series of events that allowed us to purchase and build a bigger chapel for camp. The Chapel was up at Fall Festival last year for viewing but had not had any work done to the interior at that time. Since then, the finishing touches have been put into place. The chapel had electric run to it, was painted, and was even furnished by pews and hymnals from various congregations. It was dedicated at the Hog Roast in May in memory of Mel Cormany, who devoted countless hours to the upkeep of the camp. In January, Josh and Allison Jacobs left us and continued their ministry work in the next chapter of their lives. Program Committee and Camp Administrative Committee worked hard to locate a new Program Director as well as consider the idea of a Food Services Manager. We were blessed with both and quickly hired on Cassie Imhoff as Program Director who just graduated from Manchester in May, and Jeff Prowant who comes to us with lots of culinary experience and knowledge. The need for Summer Staff was quickly approaching after the first of the year too. With only two returning counselors, the need was great but the Lord provided and blessed abundantly. We welcomed 10 summer staff members and 12 Counselors in Training!!! At the February meeting, the CAC unanimously decided to demolish Walnut. After taking many things into consideration, the group decided this would be the best use of our funds. While we did spend money getting blue prints drawn up and inspections done, it was necessary to have these items to decide our future steps. The cost of renovating and remodeling compared to the cost to tear down with the potential of building new someday was significant enough the CAC did not want to waste unnecessary funds that could be used for further ministry at camp. Also, during the February meeting we began making some changes to the policy manual. The areas we began to work on included Employee Performance Review, Telephones and Cell Phone Use, Internet Use, and Handling Complaints. The group worked well and there was lots of discussion and ideas. We agreed the entire manual needed to be updated and will continue to work on that at upcoming meetings. As we come to the close of this year in our Northern Ohio District, we bid farewell to Linda Worthen. She has served in so many capacities and added so many good qualities over the years she has served on this committee. We look forward to the new/returning members the Lord blesses us with as we begin another wonderful year doing the work of the Lord. In Him, Kerri Bailey Camp Administrative Committee, Vice Chair 42 P a g e

44 Inspiration Hills Inspiration Hills District Conference Report 2018 Oh Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them? Psalm 8:1, 3-4 Have you ever encountered one of those kids who question everything? I know as a child I drove complete strangers, ministers, family members and teachers crazy with constant questions about how things work and I know that I am not alone. This summer, we are encouraging our campers to stare at the stars and ask those big questions about the greatness and majesty of God, His relationship with us, and how we can begin to understand His wonder and grace. As a reminder of their place in the universe, each camper has put their name on a star and placed it on a backdrop and the backdrop will be displayed during conference this year; it should have about 350 stars on it! The summer camp numbers are up again this year! Although we are only in our first weeks of summer as I write this report, we are hosting much bigger camp weeks than we have in years past and are excited to see the growth. We are also pleased to see our CIT (counselors in training) program growing; we are extremely blessed to have 12 young people in this program assisting our summer staff with crafts, nature, waterfront and recreation. You can help this program grow by identifying the youth in your congregation who could be leaders; we have events throughout the year to strengthen leadership skills and train the next generation to lead our district ministries. The special people leading our summer camps are the hands and feet of Christ in our camper s lives and we cannot minister to kids without them, please consider helping us with this role in Be sure to thank ALL of our leaders, we appreciate their willingness to spend a week at camp mentoring kids, youth and adults Chaplains and Camp Leaders Bob & Liz Gordon Hancock, Elaine Stull, Linda Griffith, Chad Palmer, Bruce Jacobsen, Mark Kell, Esther Harsh, Cliff Heath, Linda Worthen, Allen Kahler, Sherry Vaught, Rod Matz, Mike Zellers, Abbie & Robert Altenburger, Paul Bartholomew, Beka Mulder, Emily Aikens, Don & Joyce Parker, Kerri & Andy Bailey, Dale Allen, and Crystal Zellers Summer Staff Mathias Butcher, Dylan Grate, Josiah Dake, Cassie Imhoff, Elyssa Kline, Chris Kaake, Hannah Osborn, Katie Ballinger, Ashley Steiner, Jenny Imhoff, Luke Schaffer, Jeff Prowant, Jean Gilmore, Jen Recker, Kathryn Recker, Baeliegh Powers, Megan Beebe (Lifeguard), and Amanda Steiner (Lifeguard) CIT s Megan Beebe, Hanna Warnick, Reese Vaught, Mickey Blankenship, Job Butcher, Mackenzie Bozman, Mykayla Clark, Lani Becker, Madison Stokes, Mackenzie Dunfee, and Kayla Flake. Summer camp is just a small part of the ministry of Inspiration Hills. Our camp is used by many groups including Scouts, 4-H groups, YMCA, youth groups, churches, parachurch ministries, community organizations and schools. We continue to be a center for Outdoor Education for local schools as well as Cleveland Public Schools. New retreat groups added this year include Elim Church of Cleveland, Catholic Charities of Cleveland and Life Springs of Ashland. Join us for our Annual Fall Festival on September 15, Tour the camp, play some games, eat some great food and stay for the benefit auction. We hope to see you there! 43 P a g e

45 We have planned several camps and overnight events for campers throughout the winter, be sure to add your address to our list so that you get our monthly newsletters and updates. You can also visit us online at and on Facebook. On May 26th we dedicated our new camp chapel to the memory of Mel Cormany. We are blessed to have this beautiful place at the heart of our camp that will be a part of the lives of campers for generations to come. Thanks to all who helped with the construction and landscaping, we appreciate you! The deck on Cherry Lodge is starting to come together with much hard work by volunteers and church groups. We hope to have this project completed by the end of the summer. This has been a year of transition in our leadership team as we said goodbye to Josh and Allison Jacobs in February and began the search for replacements. We welcomed Cassie Imhoff as our new Program Director in February. Cassie grew up in the East Chippewa Church of the Brethren congregation and graduated from Manchester University in May with a degree in Business Management. Cassie says my love for Jesus Christ has grown so much from everything that I have learned at Inspiration Hills and Manchester University and I am excited to pass that love onto all of our campers and everyone that comes to camp! Also new to the camp staff is Jeff Prowant, Food Services Manager. Jeff is a member of the Dupont Church of the Brethren where he serves on the Hospitality Board. While in High School, Jeff attended Vantage Career Center and received a certificate in Culinary Arts and went on to college at Hocking Tech and completed his training in Culinary Arts and Baking. Jeff attended camp at Inspiration Hills as a teen and the seeds planted during those experiences led him to give his life to Christ. Make sure you welcome both of these new staff members! I would like to thank the members of the Camp Administration Committee: Jim Shives, Kerri Bailey, Linda Worthen, Abbie Altenburger, Sierra Swanson, Mark Dickerhoof, Alan Luginbill, Jean Nesbitt, Erich Basset, and Wayne & Bonnie Brockway. These committee members have tirelessly supported the camp and their commitment to the ministry is a blessing to all of us, please thank them for their dedication! Respectfully Submitted, Shannon M. Kahler Executive Director Inspiration Hills Camp 44 P a g e

46 Income Statement Inspiration Hills Camp For the 12 months ended 31 December 2017 YTD Actual YTD Budget Variance REVENUE Income from Operations Rental Income ( ) Retreat Income Summer Camp Food Service Income ( ) Total Income from Operations ( ) Donations Contributions ( ) Contributions - Walnut Self Allocations District Allocation Scholarship Income ( ) Home Depot Donations ( ) Total Donations ( ) Other Operating Income Gas Well Revenue Camp Store Revenue Miscellaneous Income (671.85) Timber Revenue Fundraising Income Total Other Operating Income Total Revenue ( ) EXPENSES Salaries and Wages Salary - Administrative Salary - Kitchen Salary - Maintenance Salary - Program Wages - Office (744.50) Wages - Kitchen Wages - Maintenance Wages - Program Wages - Summer staff Total Salaries and Wages Other Employee Expenses Payroll Taxes Workers' Compensation ( ) Medical Insurance (846.08) HSA Employer Contribution Pension Plan Travel Reimbursement ( ) Training ( ) Conferences P a g e

47 Total Other Employee Expenses ( ) Other Operating Expenses Sales Tax (9.78) Real Estate Taxes (38.00) Insurance - Fire & Liability ( ) Insurance - Vehicles (193.50) Licenses ( ) Legal & Professional Fees Bank Fees Marketing Summer Registration ( ) Office Supples & Equipment Postage ( ) Total Other Operating Expenses ( ) Direct Costs Food Purchases ( ) Camp Store Goods Fundraising Expenses (925.00) Total Direct Costs ( ) Supplies Kitchen Supplies (366.28) Facilities Supplies Program Supplies (744.05) Recreation Equipment Total Supplies Miscellaneous Misc - General ( ) Total Miscellaneous ( ) Utilities Telephone & Internet Electricity ( ) LP Gas & Natural Gas Trash Removal Total Utilities Maintenance Gasoline & Diesel Repairs & Maintenance Home Depot Membership Fee (600.00) Small Tools & Equipment Grounds & Conservation Pest Control Gravel WWTP Testing Total Maintenance Total Expenses Net Income from Operations ( ) ( ) 46 P a g e

48 OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSE Other Income Non-Budgeted Income Interest Received Market Value Fluctuation Total Other Income Less Other Costs: Capital Improvements ( ) Total Other Income and Expense ( ) NET INCOME / (LOSS) ( ) 47 P a g e

49 Other Reports Manchester University Office of Church Relations Summer 2018 Our year was filled with celebrations and achievements, change and looking to the future. Through it all, Manchester University continues to uphold our values of learning, faith, service, integrity, diversity and community. This year marked the 50 th anniversary of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. s visit and speech at Manchester College. This speech was the last Dr. King delivered at a university campus before his untimely death. The MLK50 celebrations included many events, the highlight being our annual Martin Luther King, Jr Remembrance & Rededication Ceremony on Feb. 1. The keynote was delivered by the Rev. Otis Moss III of Chicago s Trinity United Church of Christ with music by Chris Ford & Power of Praise. On this day, Jeff Diesburg, assistant professor of art, unveiled an original painting of Dr. King. Also on Feb. 1, the North Manchester campus broke ground on the Jean Childs Young Intercultural Center. We will move in before the beginning of the 2018 fall semester and it will house the Office of Multicultural Affairs and be a home away from home for international students. The center boasts a beautiful 100-seat domed space, made possible by a $250,000 donation from the Toyota Foundation that will serve as a regional focal point for discussion about diversity and inclusion, civic engagement and building diverse communities. Among academic achievements are our new STEM Pathways Academy made possible by a nearly $650,000 grant from the National Science Foundation. The Academy is being used to help serve academically talented students with high financial need who wish to pursue science majors. Our Pharmacogenomics online degree began this year with options to begin studies in January or August, and Manchester has officially launched the first and only degree in the nation that will graduate students with dual Doctor of Pharmacy and Master of Pharmacogenomics degrees. In religious life and church relations: we hold weekly chapel services; Simply Brethren students enjoy spending time with Timbercrest residents, fellowshipping with alumni and planning Love Feast every semester; The Campus Interfaith Board in partnership with the Office of Religious Life sponsored the second annual Empty Bowls lunch to help fight hunger in our world. This year we supported Heifer International and raised more than $1,000. The ROBOT worship travel team continues to offer worship services to Church of the Brethren congregations in the spring semester; and the Powerhouse Regional Youth Conference, held at Camp Mack every November, brought 45 youth and advisors. It was led by Jamie Makatche, former Youth Heritage Team and National Youth Cabinet member on the theme Who am I based? on 1 Corinthians 12:27. Please encourage your senior high youth to join us on Nov for Powerhouse 2018! A Brethren heritage travel course was offered this January session with leadership from Katy Gray Brown, professor of philosophy and director of the peace studies program, and Bekah Houff, university pastor and director of church relations. Eight students, both Brethren and non-brethren, traveled with Gray Brown and Houff to significant Brethren sites in Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, Ohio and Indiana. The Peace Studies Institute and Program in Conflict Resolution will celebrate 70 years next academic year. We hope you will celebrate with us as we provide opportunities to engage with the program at Homecoming and beyond. We named our first Gladdys Muir Professor of Peace Studies, Elton Skendaj this past year. Two more Peace Poles were dedicated; one on the North Manchester campus in honor of Brad Yoder, retired professor of sociology and cross country coach; and the first one on the Fort Wayne campus. The new Intercultural Center and Toyota Round will also offer opportunities for rich new programming. 48 P a g e

50 Manchester is also building the Lockie and Augustus Chinworth Center on the north side of the Jo Young Switzer Center. It will be home to the Arthur L. Gilbert College of Business and a number of student-focused services. This move will free up space in the Academic Center and provide much-needed space that will allow honors, study abroad and student activities programs to grow. The University is currently undergoing a vitality study in light of the state of higher education in the United States. Our goal is to get ahead of some of the enrollment and financial issues being faced by some of our peer institutions. Manchester is involving all faculty and staff in this effort to best utilize our resources, build on our strengths and remain a vital institution providing strong academic programs for years to come. To that end, we are also revamping our first-year experience for students, making it more relevant to their needs and building relationships that will last long beyond graduation day. As always, we thank you for your generous support in both prayer and financial resources. The work that we do, graduating students of ability and conviction who draw upon their education and faith to lead principled, productive, and compassionate lives that improve the human condition, is made stronger with your partnership. Office of Church Relations Summer P a g e

51 West View Healthy Living More than a Retirement Community. it s a plan for your future For 60 years, West View Healthy Living (WVHL) has been making a difference in the lives of seniors. We are a non-profit, faith based Continuous Care Retirement Community centrally located in Wooster, in rural Wayne County. The mission of WVHL is to foster, maintain and operate a Christian continuing care senior living community that provides older persons with caring and quality services toward the enhancement of their physical, mental and spiritual well-being consistent with the Christian gospel. In 2017, West View provided services to over 249 people. Over $1,900, in Charitable Care was provided during that same time. We offer lifestyles and care designed to make life easier for individuals. Independent Living The Villas - Independent Living Cottages - ideal for couples or individuals who still maintain their independence, but still need the assurance that someone is available when needed. Assisted Living - Town Square Assisted Living lifestyle services include fine dining, outpatient rehabilitation services on campus, community outings, and 24 Hour Nursing Services in one or two room suites. There are currently suites available. West View also maintains a waiting list to help individuals plan for their future. Memory Care - Bridges With a commitment to ensuring optimum physical, mental and emotional health, our memory care neighborhood provides the environment and the lifestyle those with memory loss deserve... and it provides their families with the security and peace of mind they need and expect. Transitional Care and Rehabilitation The Transitional Care Center (TCC) is much more than a place to recover following an illness or surgery. Our TCC provides help during your recovery period so that you can return to your active lifestyle. TCC is the ideal setting for patients who need short term, high quality rehabilitation services or skilled nursing care before returning home after an acute event, such as Pneumonia, Hip or Knee Replacement, Heart Attack, or Stroke. The staff provides a full range of rehabilitation services, including: Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Intravenous Therapy, and 24-hour Skilled Nursing Care. West View s Medical Director, John K. Miller visits the unit 6 days a week. The Ohio Department of Health only requires a physician visit skilled nursing residents once every 30 days. West View is proud to have Dr. Miller onsite 6 days a week; this presence allows him to more closely monitor patient s conditions and progress and stay in close communication with patients, families and rehabilitation staff. He also attends care conference meetings with each patient and their family members. The goal of West View s Transitional Care Center is to help 50 P a g e

52 patients make a safe transition home and function as independently as possible in a timely manner. Their motto is Get Well and Go Home. Long-term Care Our long-term care center offers a comprehensive set of services designed to meet the varying levels of care our residents need. All of the lifestyles at West View include access to the Town Square, which is an atrium style, old fashioned town that includes a Café, Chapel, Gift Shop, Library, Theatre, Grandma s House, Beauty Shop and a Post Office as well as peaceful sitting areas for residents and guest to enjoy. West View also provides spiritual care with a full time Chaplain available to all Residents and families of our community. Chapel Services are every Wednesday and Sunday. Life Enrichment programs based on individual choice are available to all Lifestyles on campus. West View has a strong volunteer program with many different volunteer opportunities available. What s Happening at West View Each month, West View Healthy Living offers several support groups that are open to the community. We provide a Memory Care and Parkinson s Support Group for caregivers. We recognize and support those who are caring for loved ones and offer services to enhance the quality of life for both. In addition, we also provide a Senior Health Speaker s Presentation each month. We have various presenters share information on an array of topics that are of interest to our aging population. We also provide monthly Blood Pressure Screenings at a local grocery store, in addition to providing the screening on our campus. Our Marketing Department partners with a local Community Center to provide Bingo each month, which continues to be a great referral source. Being a non-profit, we continue to have fundraisers to assist with funding our programs. We like to focus on making life more meaningful for all of our residents and to be a resource for our community. We have organized and participated in golf fundraisers, shopping sprees with a local grocer, car shows, spaghetti dinner to raise money for alzheimer s, a pancake breakfast and a soup stravaganza to raise money for our campus. Each event continues to grow and benefits our residents through Life Enrichment activities. For sixty years, West View has been providing services to seniors in the community. We continually review our programs and processes to ensure that needs are being met and that we are staying true to our mission. During that process, we challenge ourselves to do more do more for our residents and more for our community. With that being said, 2018 is going to be a big year for us. During the Fall of 2018, we will begin construction on a 34,000 sq. ft. addition with 20 skilled nursing units for transitional care and 15 independent living units. We will also construct a 24,600 sq. ft. Senior Wellness Facility, along with an Event Center, which will be used for programming at West View, as well as a community resource for meetings and community events. For more information about any of the lifestyles or programs at West View, contact Nikki Evans at We are available for a no obligation tour at any time. Come and see what our beautiful campus has to offer. Also, please visit our website at for more information regarding our community. 51 P a g e

53 Ohio Council of Churches 6161 Busch Blvd., Suite 100, Columbus, OH Facebook 27 regions representing about 4,500 congregations, 2 million members The year for 2017 Mission Statement The mission of the Ohio Council of Churches is to make visible the unity of Christ's church, provide a Christian voice on public issues, and engage in worship, education and service. so that they may be one, as we are one John 17:22b We are the Body of Christ. Our Biblical mandate is to work towards oneness. We gift one another with our traditions and history. Opportunities are before us each day for us to be an instrument for living and demonstrating oneness. How do we do that? Building relationships: There are always new bishops and executive leaders to meet, and we pray especially for members going through difficult times. A NW Ohio leaders groups meets twice a year. We were present at a Roman Catholic and ELCA worship commemoration of the 500 th anniversary of the Reformation, taught about ecumenism, and serve on the board of the Bishop Vinton R Anderson Ecumenical Institute at Payne Theological Seminary. Joining the Jain community, we spoke of how we work towards peace. The Roman Catholic Dioceses decided to withdraw their membership, and so building a relationship with the Ohio Catholic Conference will continue. Witnessing to our Faith: A Legislative Brief goes out monthly with information about current legislative concerns. The Public Policy director often gives testimony and follows issues. Some of the issues addressed were: redistricting, medicaid expansion, the State budget, tax cuts, and the opiate epidemic. We hosted a prayer vigil following the killings in Charlottesville. Networking and Partnering: We have co-sponsored events with the Hunger Network in Ohio, State of Appalachia Conference, and Faith in Public Life. We have participated on a panel for the Council on American Islamic Relations, and brought greetings to member bodies. Staff serves on the Global Leadership Team for Ohio. A civil discourse group has been working on connecting with congregations to resource them on how to have a civil conversation. The National Institute for Civil Discourse counts Ohio as a key state and has worked with and encouraged us. CareWorks (our managed care organization) and CareWorksComp (worker s compensation) provide lower rates for 650 churches connected with the Council. Thanks be to God for life together as the Body of Christ known as the Ohio Council of Churches! Officers: The Rev. Marvin Thomas, President, Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, Second Episcopal District; the Rev. Vanessa Clark, Vice- President, Episcopal Church, Diocese of Ohio; the Rev. Deb Oskin, Church of the Brethren, Southern Ohio District; the Rev. Tim Philabaum, Treasurer, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, NW Ohio Synod; Rev. Deb Oskin, Chair for Foundation, Board of Trustees; immediate Past- President, The Rev. Raafat Zaki, Synod of the Covenant, Presbyterian Church (USA); The Rev. Rebecca J. Tollefson, Executive Director. 52 P a g e

54 Denominational Agency Reports Dear Brothers and Sisters, The late summer and fall of 2017 challenged Brethren Disaster Ministries (BDM) and Children s Disaster Services (CDS) with one of the most demanding disaster seasons we have ever had. Never has BDM responded to so many disasters at one time, and back-to-back, without a break. In less than two months, CDS responded to two hurricanes (Harvey and Irma), a flood in Missouri, the deadliest shooting in recent history (Las Vegas), the largest wildfires in California history and the train disaster near Olympia, Wash. BDM staff have worked with disasteraffected districts, including trips to Puerto Rico for Hurricane Maria response. Brethren volunteers have also helped with clean up and early repair work. All members of the Puerto Rico district were impacted when Hurricane Maria struck on Sept. 20, 2017, causing extensive and widespread damage to homes, roads, the power grid, water supply and cellular communication. Although Church of the Brethren buildings received limited damage, there was damage to the volunteer housing in Castañer and Caimito and at least 35 Brethren families had major damage to their homes. In support of the Puerto Rican Brethren, emergency supplies (solar chargers, generators, canned chicken, tools, tarps and other items) were sent and grants are supporting church-based recovery. BDM is working closely with the district to develop and implement a long-term recovery program before a new hurricane season. The district recovery committee is providing permanent solutions to many of the most vulnerable hurricane survivors. As the first response program of BDM, CDS was exceptionally busy, with a record 16 disasters responses in 2017, including two critical responses. Volunteers, including some who served more than once, cared for 2,527 children in the aftermath of tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, flash floods and a dam breach, as well as the train disaster in Washington state and the mass shooting in Las Vegas, Nev. The latter two required the help of our Critical Response Childcare Team, the only national response program called to care for children in mass causality crises. The impact of CDS is illustrated by the words of a father sheltering in Florida with a CDS team as Hurricane Irma raged outside: When you came in and started playing with our children, all the parents in this whole place just calmed right down. We knew we were going to be alright. For most disaster survivors, the road to recovery comes to an end when their homes are restored. With this as a goal, the BDM home rebuilding program sends volunteers and leaders to support community-based disaster recovery by repairing or reconstructing homes for people like 88-year-old Dorothy Brown from Columbia, S. C., who delights in showing the many photos and notes she has received from volunteers. They not only repaired her home, they became a part of her life and an answer to her prayers. In 2017, the ministry of home rebuilding and restoration reached 64 families in four communities across three states. The Columbia, S.C., project finished in August, after restoring homes damaged in 2015 storms and floods with an $88,801 grant from the United Way of the Midlands for building materials. The project then moved to Marion County, S.C., to repair homes damaged by Hurricane Matthew in A six-week rebuild project in March and April, in Clay County in West Virginia, supported homes damaged in July 2016 floods. In July, a home rebuilding site opened in Eureka, Mo., in response to two historic floods. BDM volunteers also served 19 families on short-term disaster responses in Florida, Illinois, Missouri, Texas and West Virginia. 53 P a g e

55 In February, the Disaster Recovery Support Initiative (DRSI), a partnership of the disaster ministries of the Church of the Brethren, the United Church of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), hired its first staff (Rachel Larratt and Tim Sheaffer) to pilot a program that supports local communities in the rapid development of effective long-term recovery programming. The DRSI team supported communities in La Salle County, Ill., and Wisconsin. Following Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, DRSI explored opportunities in Texas and the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), resulting in a request to support local long-term recovery planning in USVI in The greatest global need, representing 52 percent of BDM s $1,090,818 project expenses, involved families forcibly displaced or impacted by violence. In South Sudan, funds supported food distributions and repairs to the Brethren Peace Center, which was ransacked by government forces during the ongoing civil war. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, a local partner assisted villagers forced to flee their homes due to political corruption, local warlords and hungry fighters. As the biggest operation in BDM history, the Nigeria Crisis Response continues to support Ekklesiyar Yan uwa a Nigeria (EYN, Church of the Brethren in Nigeria) in response to ongoing violence in Northeast Nigeria by the terrorist group Boko Haram. This response provides relief and recovery programs including peace building and trauma activities for adults and children; support for four displaced people relocation centers; home repair; agricultural support (seeds, fertilizer, soybean project, tractors); educational support, including scholarships for orphans; business and skills training for widows; food, medical and household distributions; safe water provision; shipping a container of books for schools, including Kulp Bible College; and ongoing advocacy and peace building work by the COB Office of Public Witness. Amazingly, even with all the displacement and violence, EYN has opened new churches as families relocate and has created four new districts. The total 2017 program expenditures were $460,013 for U.S. responses, including the Rebuild Program and CDS, $529,091 for the Nigeria Crisis Response and $101,714 for all other international responses. This includes continued support for Hurricane Matthew recovery in Haiti. After so many disasters and the hurting families trying to recover, we pray for a calmer year and a time of healing. Please pray for BDM staff and volunteers who are stretched by the extent of need in the U.S. and around the globe. Thank you for your prayers and for supporting this auction and the programs of Brethren Disaster Ministries. You are a blessing and a beacon of hope to those in need. In Christ, Roy Winter, Associate Executive Director On behalf of BDM staff Sherry Chastain, Jenn Dorsch-Messler, Sharon Franzén, Kathy Fry-Miller and Terry Goodger 54 P a g e

56 Greetings from Brethren Benefit Trust to the moderator, delegates, and members of Northern Ohio District. It is our pleasure, as an agency of the denomination, to serve you. As part of our strategy for future goals and plans, emphasis is placed on impacting the churches and districts of our members. The plans are always focused on benefitting and guiding we help pastors and church workers prepare for a meaningful retirement; we manage funds for organizations so they can go about their work and use earnings to promote their ministries; we educate and inform so that our clients have the latest information. And this past year, our benevolent program helped two people who were in financial straits and were going to be evicted from their homes. In the office, BBT staff is connected to each other and to our many members and clients through the usual electronic world of phones, computers, internet, etc. But at our core is the belief that although we must use this electronic platform as a means to do business, the most important element in our line of work is building and maintaining that personal relationship with all of those who rely on us for some very personal issues - insurance coverage, retirement planning and security, asset management, and deferred gift administration. So although the cyber world plays a big part in how we get our work done, we also make it a priority to get away from our screens and out of the office so that we may visit with our members and clients, wherever they are. In addition to the client and member visits, several staff attend Annual Conference each year; BBT is represented at every one of the 23 district conferences from July through November. We also visit many Brethren retirement communities, colleges, and camps throughout the year. This is in addition to attending special events and gatherings such as NOAC, NYC, the Fellowship of Brethren Homes Forum, and the Worship and Prayer Summit. And we make onsite visits to plan sponsors for educational presentations and individual consultations. We make every effort to keep that personal relationship strong so that we get to know our people. And we are happy to say that we are also planning strategically in the next few years to seek and retain new members and clients, so that for them, and those who have been with us all along, we will remain a strong Brethren entity, ready to serve you for many years to come. Brethren Pension Plan Church of the Brethren Pension Plan serves more than 4,500 current and former employees of congregations and denominational organizations. In 2017, average monthly benefits averaged $732, for a total monthly distribution of approximately $1.3 million! Retirement distributions vary among members according to how long one has paid into the plan, how much was contributed from each paycheck, and the impact of the markets on the invested assets. By saving according to the Annual Conference-recommended contribution formula, in which churches, districts, and camps contribute 11 percent of the employee s wages to the Pension Plan, while the employees themselves contribute 4 percent of their wages, participants have a high probability of securing retirement income that comfortably replaces the income they received while working. Investments In 2017, the U.S. stock market experienced one of the least volatile years on record and hit numerous highs throughout the year. With the backdrop of the passage of a sweeping tax reform bill, strong corporate earnings reports, continued solid job growth, an accelerating global economy, and central banks still willing to provide accommodative monetary policies, the S&P 500 Index closed in positive territory every single month, and ended at 21.8 percent up for the year. However, market volatility keeps BBT closely monitoring developments within the world markets and how our managers navigate gyrations that may occur. Incorporating an extended time horizon, BBT s investment managers attempt to analyze economic and financial factors, and within that framework, adhere to the core objectives of our investment guidelines stability, preservation of capital, liquidity, and rate of return and we remain true to these fundamental tenets as we conduct oversight of the managers responsible for the assets under our supervision. Brethren Foundation Funds BFFI BFFI manages assets for congregations and denominationally related organizations with account from $10,000 to more than $10,000,000. Staff work diligently to ensure that clients have numerous investment options, can check the status of their funds and handle administrative tasks via a secure online Web portal, and are able to access their funds very 55 P a g e

57 quickly, much like one would with a bank, through electronic fund transfers. Assets under management at the end of 2017 for nearly 200 organizational asset management clients were $181,503,175, an increase of $25,686,556 (16.5 percent) over the total under management on Dec. 31, 2016, of $155,816,620. BFFI clients contributed $15,160,259 to BFFI assets under management in 2017, and withdrew $13,408,462. Brethren Foundation BFI This ministry manages deferred gifts for any Church of the Brethren members who are working on stewardship of their resources. It offers a number of charitable gift instruments for various types of needs and results, and can write a gift for multiple Church of the Brethren congregations and organizations. Assets under management at the end of 2017 were $5,029,714, a decrease of $223,148 (4.2 percent) from the $5,252,862 in total assets under management on Dec. 31, At the end of 2017, BFI was managing assets for nearly 150 deferred gift donors. Brethren Values Investing BVI In 2017, the Board and staff of BBT continued their work in a manner consistent with Brethren Values Investing guidelines. This means that whenever possible, assets managed for members, clients, and donors are invested according to guidelines that are consistent with Church of the Brethren Annual Conference statements. Screened from our portfolios are the 25 publicly traded companies that receive the top U.S. Department of Defense contracts, as well as companies that generate 10 percent or more of their gross earnings from U.S. Department of Defense contracts, firearms and military weapons systems, weapons of mass destruction, abortion, alcohol, gambling, pornography, or tobacco. Companies that are egregious violators of environmental or human rights regulations are also screened. Through BVI, advocacy is also practiced with companies in which BBT own stocks, and with other initiatives that affect how companies interact with shareholders and with others in the global community. Lastly, positive investing is also a component of BVI, which means investing funds in higher-than-normal risk areas that help stimulate economic growth in inner-city redevelopment communities. Workshops While overseeing retirement funds and retirement planning for other people, we recognize the importance of equipping them with the tools they need to be successful, and BBT has taken several steps to bolster this feature within the organization. Several staff members have received certifications that give them the knowledge and credentials to increase their level of service to our members. It was necessary in 2018 to add a staff person who is responsible for offering resources and direction to Brethren Pension Plan members that will help guide their journey toward retirement readiness. And as in past years, we will continue to provide free educational presentations on topics such as retirement readiness, long-term care, financial wellness, stewardship, and more. Serving our Members In 2017, we planned many initiatives meant to enhance the experience of our customers and draw new members and clients so that we can continue to grow as an organization created to serve you. One of our decisions in 2017 was to transition from a fully insured medical plan to a self-insured plan. We remain committed to trying to bring back a healthcare plan for pastors, and it is our hope that through the new self-insured approach, this goal will be reached in the not-too-distant future. We also made changes to our Pension Plan to give members more options and freedom of choice in withdrawing their Pension Plan funds. We also worked on broadening eligibility rules for Church Workers Assistance Plan grant applications. We planned for additional staff at Brethren Benefit Trust in order to expand our Foundation work, and make retirement planning assistance available as part of our overall package. All of these things have slowly been implemented in 2018 from ideas and suggestions that were planted the previous year. We are committed to enhancing our product offerings and other initiatives as we continue to work faithfully to uphold your trust. Harry Harry Rhodes Chairman Nevin Nevin Dulabaum President 56 P a g e

58 Witnessing, Listening for Justice and Peace But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. For truly I say to you that many prophets and righteous wo/men have desired to see those things which you see, and have not seen them, and to hear those things which you hear, and have not heard them. Matthew 13:16-17 Dear Delegates and Friends, Throughout 2018, On Earth Peace invites you and your districts to join us as we celebrate the many ways in which we are all Witnessing, Listening for Justice and Peace. This year, following on the success of last year s Being Built Together theme, we will be seeking and highlighting stories from individuals, congregations, and organizations that reflect the engagement of our constituents in today s issues of justice and peace. We invite you to share with us your stories of how the theme scripture resonates in the life of your district or congregation so that it might encourage others who are confronting the threats of injustice and war. Last year, even as challenging conflicts presented themselves across our denomination and the wider society, OEP continued our journey of working as an organization committed to anti-racist transformation to align ourselves, both within and outside of the Church of the Brethren, with those who bear the brunt of today s versions of war, which we understand to go beyond competing factions on a battlefield. At Annual Conference we brought insight sessions on topics such as forbearance, childhood in the US, working to become a multicultural church, stories from racial justice struggles, and more. We worked throughout districts like yours to bring programs to youth and young adults and helped provide leadership for the Harrisburg, PA National Workcamp. We sponsored the Big Rapids Song & Story Fest: Rafting in the Hollow of God s Hand!. The event s purposes included: to reconnect with the God of all creation and with each other; to tell the stories that make for peace and rekindle faith; to sing the words of our hearts in gratitude for the unceasing power of life; to root and ground ourselves in the Jesus Way; to deepen our connections with each other and the earth; and to learn the skills of peacemaking and justiceseeking. Across the church, and beyond we joined with many in the present-day struggles for justice and peace to provide faithful witness and accompaniment. On behalf of our staff and board, thank you for you consistent and continued support of On Earth Peace. We are an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and an agency of the Church of the Brethren. We receive no regular funding from the Church of the Brethren Inc. budget, and rely solely on the commitment and generosity of our individual, congregational, and foundation supporters. Your gifts allow us to continue expanding our community and to share these vital ministries around the country and the world. We ask that you prayerfully consider how you can strengthen your investment in our work. We are grateful for the congregations in your district that participated in programs and made donations to On Earth Peace in If your congregation would like to learn more about On Earth Peace as you consider supporting our work through your budget, please contact us so a representative can visit with you and share more. Yours in His Peace, Bill Scheurer, Executive Director Lamar Gibson, Director of Development 57 P a g e

59 May 2018 Though the Brethren as a group have existed for nearly three hundred years, we subscribe to no formal creed. We simply try to do what Jesus did. Jesus brought a message of life, love, and hope. But he offered much more than inspiring words: He understood that people s spiritual needs also include day-to-day human ones food, health, rest, comfort, friendship, and unconditional acceptance. I am the way, he told his followers. He showed them how to trust, how to care, and how to help. Steadily, lovingly, even radically, Jesus went about saving the world by serving its people. Because we believe his message, we seek to do the same. Church of the Brethren Identity Pamphlet Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, Greetings to you in the name of Christ our Savior! Once again I want to express my gratitude for the many ways your district and local congregations faithfully strive to live out the Gospel to simply try to do what Jesus did. The vital ministries of our Church of the Brethren congregations, small to large, are at the heart of our Church. We should never diminish the essential role that each unique part of the body plays in our common ministry together. It has been an exciting and challenging year for the Church of the Brethren. I have spent significant time working alongside the Leadership Team, district executives, and other leadership to address the challenges before the Church. While it is easy to be consumed by our struggles, I am heartened by the incredible ministries and programs that are happening in your congregations and districts, as well as denominationally. I count it a privilege to work with an incredible team of staff working on your behalf to help us all continue the work of Jesus. Denominationally we have been working to refocus our efforts and adapt to meet the changing needs of the church. As has been reported via Newsline, there have been a number of staffing changes and ongoing internal structural adjustments. From an outside perspective these changes may appear cosmetic, but they represent a shift toward a more holistic approach to our ministries, grounded in mission and discipleship. Our mission seeks to serve as Christ s presence in communities, establishing local churches, both in the United States and globally, that offer a cup of cold water to a thirsty world. Where there is conflict, it offers peace. Where there is suffering, it offers healing. Where there is hunger, it offers food. Where there is ignorance, education. Where there is despair, fellowship. Brethren mission stands as Christ s light in the world, challenging the Church to be more than a mere mouthpiece of the gospel, but also a doer of good works that demonstrate God s love to a desperate world. Through our discipleship, we embrace Jesus call to go make and be disciples, sharing our lives more fully with others. This emerging vision of discipleship has its emphasis on making and growing disciples, forming and developing leaders, and transforming communities. As we strive to support new and renewing congregations, we are recovering a Brethren way of evangelism, helping congregations to disciple new people more diverse people, more young people. While intentionally grounding our ministries in mission and discipleship, we are also assessing our efforts at intercultural ministries. We as a church must more fully live into the 2007 Annual Conference statement, Separate No More; becoming a multi-racial church. This must be more than just a commitment. It must become our desire. A desire not fabricated through advocacy but grown out of Christ's commandment to love our neighbor. A desire 58 P a g e

60 that finds its grounding in mission and discipleship. I believe that we must begin nurturing this kind of desire in the hearts of others into the heart of the church because it is this kind of desire that will open us to new possibilities to thrive. My friends, I do hope you believe that our struggle together is worthwhile. We are doing good ministries together locally in our congregations and districts, and denominationally. Our efforts at offering the cup of cold water model to the world that we are about another way of living the way of Jesus. May we not forget that through our simple acts of service we, too, are working to save the world in Jesus name. I invite you to join me in another way of living. Your servant in Christ, David Steele General Secretary 59 P a g e

61 For those who choose theological education, Bethany Seminary offers an array of choices for an experience that fits both life and call: Two graduate degrees master of divinity and master of arts A Certificate of Achievement in Theological Studies and three additional specialized graduate certificates Courses offered in nine formats and locations, including online, intensives, and synchronous video Options to help students balance course load and employment to fit their lifestyles, wherever they reside at Bethany Strategic Implementation Plan Building on Bethany s new strategic vision, this plan was developed by faculty and staff and approved by the board of trustees. Objectives and goals were named in the areas of marketing Bethany s heritage and mission, innovative curricula, enrollment, financial sustainability, and new global connections. Pillars and Pathways Residential Scholarship Initiated in fall 2017, this program enables recipients to study at Bethany without incurring additional debt if they (1) live in the Bethany Neighborhood and participate in community living, (2) volunteer eight hours per month at a nonprofit in Richmond (3) cover tuition costs through scholarships and aid, and (2) earn $7500 per year. The scholarship covers the remainder to equal one year s expected cost of attendance for residential students. Partnership with EYN With the completion of a technology center in Jos, the first joint course for EYN and North American students was offered in January. Through synchronous video, students and faculty in classrooms an ocean apart participated together in the course Global Perspectives on Scripture: 1 Corinthians. Urban Ministry Experience Through a new partnership with the nonprofit City of Refuge in Atlanta, the immersion travel course A Place of Refuge: Ministry in an Urban Context was offered in January. Graduate students, Brethren Academy students, and auditors participated directly in the ministry programs and learned about styles and approaches in working with marginalized populations. Strong Enrollment Eleven new students in fall 2017 were joined by seventeen in spring 2018, Bethany s largest spring enrollment in a number of years. These totals included nine international students, including those in the partnership with EYN Graduates The graduating class earned eight MDivs, five MAs, one Certificate of Achievement in Theological Studies, three Certificates in Theopoetics and Theological Imagination, and one Certificate in Intercultural Biblical Interpretation. A Twenty-Year Legacy Tara Hornbacker, professor of ministry formation, missional leadership, and evangelism, retired and was named professor emerita by the board of trustees. Seminaries That Change the World Bethany was named to this group of schools for the third consecutive year by the Center for Faith and Service at McCormick Theological Seminary. PARTNERS IN EDUCATION In , the Northern Ohio District had 2 students in Bethany graduate programs; You can also support Bethany Theological Seminary by remembering Bethany with prayer and personal and congregational support; calling persons of all ages into ministry; encouraging those in other professions to take advantage of Bethany s course and certificate options; envisioning new forms of ministry for Bethany graduates, such as mentoring lay leaders, supervising Academy students, or coaching pastors new to the Church of the Brethren. 60 P a g e