LAITY ADDRESS 2016 Arnold Rivera Conference Lay Leader June 7, 2016

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "LAITY ADDRESS 2016 Arnold Rivera Conference Lay Leader June 7, 2016"

Transcription

1 LAITY ADDRESS 2016 Arnold Rivera Conference Lay Leader June 7, 2016 Good morning Bishop, and Northern Illinois. It is my honor and pleasure to be here today with you. In the letter of Paul to the Philippians, Chapter 4, verse 4, Paul writes, Rejoice in the Lord Always; And again I say, rejoice. I am indeed rejoicing today, and I give all the honor and glory to God. Over the last four years we ve celebrated the overall quadrennial theme, Who is my neighbor? and over the past two days we ve highlighted our Annual Conference theme of, Walk by Faith.. So in the time that I have, I would like to share some thoughts on what I believe we need to do as we continue to walk together on this journey, and how we have in part, laid the framework for this to happen through the work of the important laity - clergy partnership in this conference. The mission of the church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. In the Gospel of Mark, chapter 1, verses 16 to 18, in speaking of Jesus, it says: Now as He walked by the sea of Galilee He saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men. And straightway they forsook their nets and followed him. That s it. He told them, Follow me and they did. But in our times, reaching others for Christ isn t that simple, at least not for us. In reaching these two brothers, Jesus first had to be out and about. He wasn t just sitting in the temple. Next, scripture tells us that he saw them. We have to actually really see people, not just look in their direction. Not just glance at them, but really see them in other words, understand them. Know what they re going through. Jesus also saw what they were doing they were fishing for they were fishermen. So he not only saw them, but he saw what they did, how they were living. This allowed him to reach them in the place where they were, and to speak to them in a way that they understood. So he had to strike up a conversation with them. Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. They understood that. He had reached them, and they followed him. So first he had to be out and walking, next he had to see them, then he had to interact with them and finally he had to relate to them. If we want to make disciples we need to talk to people. We need to get to know them. We need to be able to relate to them. Most of the time, people are not just walking in from the streets into our churches, as they sometimes did in the past. We need to go out and get them. From May 7 through 9, I was in Portland with the Association of Annual Conference Lay Leaders and one of our presenters highlighted the importance of building relationships in order to grow the church. I think we can all agree, in light of the scripture, that this is key. Our entire denomination is trying to find ways to reach new people for Christ, so the way it has to be done is by talking to people one on one. By getting to know their names. By building a relationship. One of the ways we re going to do this is by sharing our stories. Yesterday on the way back to the megacenter, by the elevators, I ran into a young lady and I asked her if she enjoyed the bible study, and she said she really enjoyed it. She said that one of the bible study leaders, was one of her professors at Garrett. By the time we got from the elevators to the megacenter, she had told me how she had come from Pakistan and how she was a student, and she had told me her whole story. And that made me think about what I was going to talk about here. 1

2 Can you explain why you follow Christ? Do you know what you believe? Are you ready to share that with someone who s willing to listen, in a split second and engage them? Because if you re not, you will lose them. We have to be ready in season and out of season, as the Apostle Paul said. And as I thought about what I wanted to talk about today, I realized that it does really all boil down to relationships. During the eight years that I have served as Conference Lay Leader, I have seen that one of the most important things in reaching people for Christ is relationships. Relationships are crucial. The relationship between clergy persons and their churches. The relationship between Lay Leaders with their local churches and with their District Lay Leaders. The relationships between District Lay Leaders and their District Superintendents, and between the District Superintendents and the churches in their districts. Of course I could go on and on, as I m sure all of you could also do when you stop to think about the importance of relationships in the life of the church. But God s word reminds us of the importance of forming relationships with those who do not have the most important relationship in the world - the relationship that each and every one of us must have with Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. That s the most important relationship that we have, and that should be the foundation on which all of our other relationships should be based. That should be what propels us to walk outside the temple, outside our churches, as Jesus did. Walk amongst those on the outside as Jesus walked. See and relate to others as Jesus did, and reach others who long for the peace that surpasses all understanding, and that is only found in Jesus Christ. When you have a relationship with Jesus, you will do things that you would not have done if you did not have faith. You will indeed walk by faith, not by sight. When you walk by faith you will plant a church where there are no churches, as we ve seen in our Conference. When you walk by faith you will hold a Laity Convocation in the dead of winter, hope someone shows up, and have almost 300 people come and hear about the importance of inner strength for greater outreach, as we saw this year during Inside Out the Laity Convocation of February 6 at Sycamore UMC. When you walk by faith you will have Lay Academies to train and instruct laity in how to be lay servants, and will have a great turn out in the districts. When you walk by faith you will stand up against human trafficking as our United Methodist Women have done. When you walk by faith you will bring the Word to those in prison, and bring comfort and strength to those in the military and to First Responders, as our United Methodist Men have done. When you walk by faith, you will begin a youth ministry when there are no youth in your church, as I was hearing about last night at the dinner for the Hispanic-Latino Caucus/National Hispanic Plan. When you walk by faith you will provide free legal services to undocumented workers in a society where some people fear and even hate immigrants and those different from them, as we ve seen JFON do because you will remember that faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not yet seen, as it says in Hebrews 11:1. Sisters and Brothers, when you walk by faith, you will walk in unity, as it says in Ephesians 4:1-3. You will indeed walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the spirit in the 2

3 bond of peace. You will be at peace with your sisters and brothers in Christ, regardless of your differences, and you will build relationships with those who do not know Christ. We on the Board of Laity have tried to be faithful to our calling. Over the course of the last eight years, I have witnessed the commitment of the laity in our conference. The Conference Board of Laity has worked to fulfill our obligations as set forth in the Discipline. We have been committed to promoting and participating in Laity Sunday, which is usually held on the third Sunday in October. So many of our churches recognize and celebrate the leadership of the laity, and the importance of the partnership between clergy and laity in our ministry. I believe that every single church in our conference should participate in celebrating the laity. In doing so they will not only recognize the service of the laity, but will also have the opportunity to reach friends and family of those being recognized during the celebration. As a result, Laity Sunday celebrations are transformed also into another form of evangelization, and relationship building. Over the last eight years, I have had the privilege to deliver the message in numerous churches throughout the Northern Illinois Conference, and to participate in Sunday School in numerous churches, including as a teacher. During these times, I have also had the blessing of seeing so many of our laity in leadership positions in those churches, and to observe the passion and fervor they had for their lay ministries. Many of these persons were trained in our excellent Lay Academies throughout the six districts of our Conference, so I would like to recognize so many of our clergy who work in partnership with the laity every day. And those of you who are laity trained in our Lay Academies, you should approach your clergy person and offer to serve in some capacity in which you can use your gifts and your training. Don t be fearful walk by faith! As a Board of Laity, we also have the opportunity to participate in the District Leadership training events. Our members have led workshops to teach local church Lay Leaders and Lay Members to Annual Conference about their roles. To be an effective leader, it is so important to understand your role or position. When clergy and their Lay Leaders in the local churches understand their roles and work together effectively, the churches are healthier and stronger. It is in the local church where disciples are made, where people s lives are changed and transformed. If we are to grow as a church, it is going to be in the local church. I remember being the local lay leader back 13 years ago, before I was a District Lay Leader, and I worked hand in hand with the pastors. That relationship was so important to the life and health of the church. Because of that relationship, we were able to develop new leaders. One of the highlights of each year for the Board of Laity is the Laity Convocation, which is also planned and implemented by the Conference Board of Laity. Over the years, we have had many excellent presentations, with keynote speakers which included our own Bishop Dyck, Bishop Jung, Bishop Hopkins, Bishop May, Bishop Schnase, Larry Holland, Rev. Elaine Heath, and just this year we had Ray Buckley. This event has always been well received and well attended, not only by laity but also by clergy. We have also touched on so many topics during the workshops at Laity Convocation with various themes including the Four Areas of Focus, the Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations, United Methodist Communication, Vital Congregations, The Wesley Way, and this year: Inside Out Inner Strength for Greater Outreach! In addition, the workshops at the Laity Convocation have been led in partnership by laity and clergy. Over just the last four years we ve had workshops on Domestic Violence, Homelessness, Immigration, Urban Strategy, Cultural Competency, Leadership Development, Children s Ministry, Small Group Ministry, Hunger Relief, Disaster Relief, and Spiritual Formation. All of these workshops have 3

4 addressed the issues in which we as a church need to be involved, and all of these workshops focused on asking the question, Who Is My Neighbor? And why do we want to know, Who Is My Neighbor? To build relationships with them. Why do we want to build relationships with them? So that they can have a relationship with Jesus Christ because you see, it all comes back to Jesus, just like that beautiful old Hymn that most of us know, Living for Jesus. Although every year the evaluations for this event are very positive, the evaluations for this year s Laity Convocation were especially positive, thanks to the presentation focusing on the inside the spirit, and that s because we all hunger for the power of the Holy Spirit. We all hunger to be closer to Jesus. Finally, the Board of Laity has had the privilege of preparing and leading the Laity Session at Annual conference very year. Over the years this has been a time of learning, sharing, talking, fellowship and worship a time to bond. We have done skits and we have celebrated our Methodist heritage. We have talked about different ministries, about reaching millennials and youth, and this year, about addiction an issue that continues to plague all communities throughout Northern Illinois. We have welcomed new people to the Board of Laity, and we have watched others from the Board say their farewells. Our Board has tried to meet the needs of our laity and the Conference. The Board of Laity is comprised of the Conference Lay Leader, the District Lay Leaders, the Presidents of United Methodist Women and United Methodist Men, the Director of Lay Servant Ministries, at-large members from each district, a staff member who is also clergy and on the cabinet, and a clergy representative. Because of its make-up, The Board of Laity has had the pulse of the laity. These people and the groups they represent are true advocates for the Laity. And we are looking to expand with the addition of co-conference lay leaders, and more co-lay leaders in the districts. I believe this will allow the Board of Laity to plan and implement regional trainings and workshops in order to reach the people in the local churches and in the pews. This could also strengthen the working relationships between the District Lay Leaders with the District Superintendents, and help lift the burden that the District Superintendent carry. As we move forward, I believe this Board will continue to play a vital role in the life and future of this Conference. Speaking of the future, we are at a crossroads. I say this, though, as a good place to be because: 1. We just came back from General Conference; 2. We ll be starting a new quadrennium; 3. We have come to terms with a new budget; and 4. The Landscape Assessment was done. As to General Conference, we heard from our delegation last night. Even though we were left with critical unresolved issues, and even though many people were not happy, we are still the United Methodist Church and our denomination with the leadership of the Council of Bishops continues to examine how to move forward together as a church, despite differing points of view. As to this being a new quadrennium, this means that we have new leadership on many Boards and Committees. This is a time to look at some of the things that we do with fresh eyes. We can evaluate what we do well, and work to make it better, while at the same time seeing what we don t do so well, and either improve, or eliminate some of those roles. So I would like to thank those who have faithfully completed their service on boards and committees, and also those who have decided to step up and serve. 4

5 For those of you who are still considering whether you will step up, you should know that it is never too late; even though Document which lists all the current and new members on our boards and committees is completed and will be voted upon, you can still: contact the Nominations Committee after Annual Conference to see where help is still needed, or you can contact your District Superintendent to lend a hand in your district, or you can speak to your local pastor to see how you can serve in your local church. Nobody with a heart for service, and who answers the call for service, will be turned away! As to the budget, we have to come to terms with our budget and the reality that we are not in the same position financially as we once were. That means that staffing is not the same, and may continue to change - that office space may not be the same, and may continue to change. We cannot continue doing the same things we ve done in the past. So these things will continue to be evaluated, and will have to be addressed in light of our new reality. Finally, we have the Landscape Assessment, and I m not going to go into it much because we had that excellent presentation about it yesterday, but as most of you know, this tool was used because we as a church wanted to know where we stood as a Conference. Not so much to compare ourselves with others, but to figure out where we stood in order to decide how to move forward. We learned that morale in our Conference was an issue. That many people, both lay and clergy, were on the fence about many issues, but that they were willing to follow the leader, the bishop. After engaging in the Landscape questionnaire, we held the Purpose Summit and then the Listening Sessions, and now we have passed legislation to commence a task force to restructure the organization of our church. This will give us an opportunity to work together as we move forward. So, as a result of the timing, we are at a critical juncture in the life of our Conference. I have a unique perspective about this juncture as a result of being the Conference Lay Leader, and therefore serving on various committees and boards. It s given me an opportunity to see things from many different perspectives. I serve on the Annual Conference Committee and I see how the budget affects all of the work that we do, and how that plays a large role in our planning. As a member of the Program Council, I ve seen again the impact of the budget as we have had to cut programming over the last couple of years, including creative ministry grants that affect the local churches. As a member of the Nominations Committee, where we add and remove people from boards and committees, we re able to see how effective they are through our liaison reports. As a member of the Episcopacy Committee, which is like your Pastor/Parish Committee, we review data to complete the Episcopal evaluation. That data includes surveys and questionnaires which many of you have completed. As a member of the Association of Annual Conference Lay Leaders, where Conference Lay Leaders from the entire denomination get together, I m able to see how other Conferences are facing and addressing some of the same challenges that we re facing. What I see as a result of all of this is the opportunity for us, as a Conference, to move forward; we have so many gifted and talented people, both laity and clergy, who are ready to do what it takes to help our Conference move forward to move forward in faith and in unity. I believe we have to focus on our local churches. We have to equip our leaders and deploy them to the districts and the local churches. We have to do more trainings regionally or by the districts. We need to emphasize the need for the clergy person in each church to meet with their lay leaders and clearly define their roles and evaluate the relationship between the parties. We need the District Lay Leaders to get out into the districts and meet with the lay leaders to strengthen their relationships. We need our District 5

6 Superintendents to work more closely with the District Lay Leaders in order to empower the Lay Leaders, which will in turn reduce the burden on the District Superintendents. All of these things will help us build up the connection in our Conference. We as United Methodists are a connectional people, and the connection is not working as well as it could be, but we re starting to see that change. We had an excellent opportunity to think about and discuss ways to improve that yesterday during one of our sessions. We need to put a greater emphasis on the power of prayer. Isaiah 40:31 says, But they who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings as eagles. They shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and not faint. For the past two years, we have had a prayer chain in our church. Every Wednesday from nine to ten at night, we all pray for one hour together but everyone in their own home. And I can tell you from personal experience, that there is nothing as powerful and as beautiful as a family and a church praying together. We need to be committed more faithfully to a life of prayer where we pray that God s will be done. We need to put less emphasis on what we want, and focus on trying to discern what is God s will for us. We need to wait upon the Lord. Henry T. Blackaby, in his book on Spiritual Leadership, says, and I quote, If Christians around the world were to suddenly renounce their personal agendas, their life goals and their aspirations, and begin responding in radical obedience to everything God showed them, the world would be turned upside down. How do we know? Because that s what first century Christians did, and the world is still talking about it! Last, we need to embrace our reality. We need to seize the moment to truly partner to carry out the Lord s plan. You see, God has a plan, and His plan will come to fruition, with us, or in spite of us. We see that throughout the bible. Brothers and Sisters, the mission field is wide open. More than ever before, so many people have left the church and not just the United Methodist Church. People are out there looking for something. Well we are the Easter people. We have the power of the Holy Spirit. We recently celebrated Easter, and 50 days later Pentecost. We are filled with the Holy Spirit. We should be excited about the Gospel. We need to share and preach the gospel of Jesus Christ resurrected, with passion, not only from our pulpits, but through our relationship - building as we go out to make Disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Finally Brothers and Sisters, I have a confession to make. For the past eight years I have been your Conference Lay Leader, but I have had a Conference Co - Lay Leader, and that s my wife. I want to thank her because without her I would not have been able to do any of this. It was with fear and trepidation that I accepted this position eight years ago, but I accepted it anyway, because I knew that I would have to walk by faith. And I knew that I could walk by faith because of the relationship that I had, and have, with Jesus Christ. I am not the same person that I was eight years ago, but I know that God is not finished with me, and he s not finished with the Northern Illinois Conference. I have been truly blessed, and I want to thank all of you with whom I ve served and worked during this time. To each and every one of you, God put you in my path to help me along the way, to teach me something, to encourage me or correct me but always to be a blessing to me. Thank you, thank you. To God be the Glory! 6

GNJ Strategic Plan Legislation

GNJ Strategic Plan Legislation 2019-23 GNJ Strategic Plan Legislation Whereas, in 2013, United Methodists of Greater New Jersey (GNJ) embarked on a five-year journey to grow the percentage of vital congregations from 14% to 41%, an

More information

the 2018 Connection The Alabama-West Florida United Methodist Conference

the 2018 Connection The Alabama-West Florida United Methodist Conference the 2018 Connection The Alabama-West Florida United Methodist Conference January 15, 2018 Dear Ministry Partners, As we launch into a new year, I continue to be amazed at the ministry taking place through

More information

EPISCOPAL LEADERSHIP EVALUATION FORM (Part A) and ANNUAL CONFERENCE PROFILE FORM (Part B) Quadrennium

EPISCOPAL LEADERSHIP EVALUATION FORM (Part A) and ANNUAL CONFERENCE PROFILE FORM (Part B) Quadrennium EPISCOPAL LEADERSHIP EVALUATION FORM (Part A) and ANNUAL CONFERENCE PROFILE FORM (Part B) 2009 2012 Quadrennium The mission of the Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of

More information

May the grace and blessings from our Lord be with you.

May the grace and blessings from our Lord be with you. Episcopal Address June 20, 2014 May the grace and blessings from our Lord be with you. Before I came to Hampton, I had the following conversation with the staff in my office: Would it be an impossible

More information

Resolution Related to a Comprehensive Urban Ministry Strategic Plan

Resolution Related to a Comprehensive Urban Ministry Strategic Plan Resolution Related to a Comprehensive Urban Ministry Strategic Plan Submitted by: Commission on Urban Ministry Presenters: Robin Hynicka and Lydia Munoz Whereas, the Commission on Urban Ministry is charged

More information

ALABAMA-WEST FLORIDA CONFERENCE THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH A NEW STRUCTURE FOR A NEW DAY

ALABAMA-WEST FLORIDA CONFERENCE THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH A NEW STRUCTURE FOR A NEW DAY SECTION I. PLAN OF ORGANIZATION FOR THE ALABAMA-WEST FLORIDA CONFERENCE A RECOMMENDATION TO THE JUNE 2002 SESSION OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE FROM THE CONFERENCE COUNCIL ON MINISTRIES A New Structure For A New

More information

Rethinking the Worldwide United Methodist Church... Seeking a New Approach

Rethinking the Worldwide United Methodist Church... Seeking a New Approach Rethinking the Worldwide United Methodist Church... Seeking a New Approach (This is the prepared text of an address by Bishop Scott Jones, chair of the Committee to Study the Worldwide Nature of The United

More information

Missional Report Journey Toward Vitality

Missional Report Journey Toward Vitality Minnesota Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church 2017-2018 Missional Report Journey Toward Vitality We are a movement centering on abundant life in Christ. We are focused on three gospel imperatives

More information

the 2015 Connection The Alabama-West Florida United Methodist Conference

the 2015 Connection The Alabama-West Florida United Methodist Conference the 2015 Connection The Alabama-West Florida United Methodist Conference October 1, 2014 Dear Sisters and Brothers: St. Paul s second letter to the Thessalonians concludes with his reminder that as people

More information

SEJ Committee on Episcopacy Questions for Episcopal Nominee-2016 Leonard Fairley-North Carolina

SEJ Committee on Episcopacy Questions for Episcopal Nominee-2016 Leonard Fairley-North Carolina SEJ Committee on Episcopacy Questions for Episcopal Nominee-2016 Leonard Fairley-North Carolina 1. How do you reflect a life and ministry rooted in Wesleyan theology, spirituality, and practice? The genius

More information

AME7 SOCIAL JUSTICE MINISTRY PLAN

AME7 SOCIAL JUSTICE MINISTRY PLAN AME7 SOCIAL JUSTICE MINISTRY PLAN OUR MISSION [List the purpose for existing in one sentence. Answers the question of WHY?] (Example: As a body of Christ, paying our rent to the world, by acts of service

More information

Rules and Structure Committee

Rules and Structure Committee 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 Rules and Structure Committee MOTION: Changes to the 01 Rules and Structure Document section- The Leadership Table The Structure of the Indiana Conference Accomplishing the

More information

We equip spiritual leaders to make disciples and grow vital congregations to transform the world. Clergy Evaluation

We equip spiritual leaders to make disciples and grow vital congregations to transform the world. Clergy Evaluation We equip spiritual leaders to make disciples and grow vital congregations to transform the world Clergy Evaluation Evaluations are a healthy and natural way for pastors to receive feedback from the congregation.

More information

SPRC - Staff / Pastor Relations Committee: What is My Role?

SPRC - Staff / Pastor Relations Committee: What is My Role? SPRC - Staff / Pastor Relations Committee: What is My Role? OPENING PRAYER Romans 12: 1-2(NIV) Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice,

More information

Job Descriptions: Directors of Evangelism

Job Descriptions: Directors of Evangelism Facilitator The Rev. Director, Bureau of Evangelism African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church Charlotte, North Carolina Job Descriptions: Directors of Evangelism Copyright 2005 Bureau of Evangelism - A.

More information

GUIDELINES FOR LOCAL LAY LEADERSHIP

GUIDELINES FOR LOCAL LAY LEADERSHIP GUIDELINES FOR LOCAL LAY LEADERSHIP GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR LOCAL CHURCH LAITY LEADERSHIP TABLE OF CONTENTS Bishop s Message to Lay Leadership... 2 GNJAC Strategic Ministry Plan Summary... 3 Conference

More information

Healthy Church Framework Presbytery of Florida

Healthy Church Framework Presbytery of Florida Healthy Church Framework Presbytery of Florida The Healthy Church Framework was created for our Presbytery to provide guidance in developing healthy churches. It is designed to be relational and biblical.

More information

Mr. Simeon P. Rhoden Jr. President. 5th District Lay Organization

Mr. Simeon P. Rhoden Jr. President. 5th District Lay Organization Mr. Simeon P. Rhoden Jr. President 5th District Lay Organization To: Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, Presiding Prelate of the Fifth Episcopal District; Mrs. Mary Kirkland, Episcopal supervisor; Dr. Willie Glover,

More information

The Framework for Men s Ministry

The Framework for Men s Ministry The Framework for Men s Ministry 1. The Biblical Model for Making Disciples The following men's ministry strategy will help you define a men s ministry. It is not a new strategy. Jesus used this approach

More information

Western Jurisdictional Plan for Starting New Churches

Western Jurisdictional Plan for Starting New Churches Western Jurisdictional Plan for Starting New Churches 2013 2024 Index Forward... page 1 Definition of a New Church... page 2 Our Mission... page 2 Our Vision (using a multiplication model)... page 3 Western

More information

Lenten Visits Allerton Deanery

Lenten Visits Allerton Deanery Summary: Lenten Visits Allerton Deanery 13 th March 2014 The evening was a positive sharing of ideas with most people engaging in the discussions and feeling positive about the opportunities that the future

More information

The United Methodist Church A Call to Action Disciple making and world transformation occurs through vital congregations A vital congregation has

The United Methodist Church A Call to Action Disciple making and world transformation occurs through vital congregations A vital congregation has The United Methodist Church Making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world Matthew 28:18-20 The Great Commission and Matthew 22:36-40 The Great Commandment A Call to Action The United

More information

Session E: Come to Serve Jesus (Ministry, Pastoral Care, Community Outreach)

Session E: Come to Serve Jesus (Ministry, Pastoral Care, Community Outreach) Session E: Come to Serve Jesus (Ministry, Pastoral Care, Community Outreach) Prayer: Dear Lord, Help us serve you. As you have called us to your service, make us worthy of our calling and use us to your

More information

It is for Jesus Christ himself that our Texas Annual Conference is "Bound for Greater Things: Building Our Future together."

It is for Jesus Christ himself that our Texas Annual Conference is Bound for Greater Things: Building Our Future together. Dear Friends, Greetings in the name of our Risen Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It is for Jesus Christ himself that our Texas Annual Conference is "Bound for Greater Things: Building Our Future together."

More information

Recruitment and Enlistment

Recruitment and Enlistment Chapter 3 Recruitment and Enlistment For more information, contact GBHEM s Director of Young Adult Ministry Discernment and Enlistment at explore@gbhem.org or 615-340-7431. [T]he Annual Conference Board

More information

Financial Interpretation. Of the 2019 Annual Budget. Of the Western North Carolina Conference

Financial Interpretation. Of the 2019 Annual Budget. Of the Western North Carolina Conference Financial Interpretation Of the 2019 Annual Budget Of the Western North Carolina Conference January, 2019 The information contained on the following pages represents the financial interpretation of our

More information

Lay Leaders: What You Need To Know

Lay Leaders: What You Need To Know Lay Leaders: What You Need To Know BOARD of LAITY 1 Visions for Ministry: Leadership of a Local Church Lay Leader Oklahoma Annual Conference Board of Laity As a leader, you will be looked to as a resource

More information

THE CALL TO MINISTRY Georgia District Nazarene

THE CALL TO MINISTRY Georgia District Nazarene THE CALL TO MINISTRY Georgia District Nazarene A Call From God As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. "Come,

More information

PLENTIFUL HARVEST: NEW AND RENEWING CONGREGATIONS Quadrennial Strategy ( ) The Upper New York Annual Conference

PLENTIFUL HARVEST: NEW AND RENEWING CONGREGATIONS Quadrennial Strategy ( ) The Upper New York Annual Conference 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 PLENTIFUL HARVEST: NEW AND RENEWING CONGREGATIONS Quadrennial Strategy (01 01) The Upper New York Annual Conference Introduction: [Jesus] told them, "The harvest is plentiful Luke : The

More information

DRAFT. Leadership Council Description

DRAFT. Leadership Council Description Leadership Council Description Purpose of the Council The Leadership Council (Council) is the Church Council described in the Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church. The Council shall have general

More information

UMC Organization Chapters 2 & 3 Page 1 of 7

UMC Organization Chapters 2 & 3 Page 1 of 7 UMC Organization Chapters 2 & 3 Page 1 of 7 Ministry of all Christians Christ is God s gift of love to the world and that love takes the form of servanthood. The ministry of Christ is a response to that

More information

St. Thomas: A Transforming Community

St. Thomas: A Transforming Community St. Thomas: A Transforming Community September 2015 I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which

More information

Whereas, the Annual Conference Session (ACS) for the North Carolina Conference Youth is an event that has taken place for the past 66 years; and

Whereas, the Annual Conference Session (ACS) for the North Carolina Conference Youth is an event that has taken place for the past 66 years; and Sending Delegates from Each Local Church to ACS Whereas, the Annual Conference Session (ACS) for the North Carolina Conference Youth is an event that has taken place for the past 66 years; and Whereas,

More information

This is a worksheet only the final SPRC Committee report must be submitted online at To be completed by SPRC.

This is a worksheet only the final SPRC Committee report must be submitted online at  To be completed by SPRC. Ministry Review, 2018 For Pastor (Staff)-Parish Relations Committee Northern Illinois Conference United Methodist Church This is a worksheet only the final SPRC Committee report must be submitted To be

More information

Board of Ordained Ministry 2017 Clergy Evaluation

Board of Ordained Ministry 2017 Clergy Evaluation Pastor s Self Evaluation S/PPRC Composite Evaluation Board of Ordained Ministry 2017 Clergy Evaluation About This Form: This form is designed to provide a framework for evaluating the pastor s work in

More information

Navigating Uncharted Waters Northern Illinois Annual Conference report By Anne Marie Gerhardt, Dir. of Communications

Navigating Uncharted Waters Northern Illinois Annual Conference report By Anne Marie Gerhardt, Dir. of Communications Navigating Uncharted Waters - 2018 Northern Illinois Annual Conference report By Anne Marie Gerhardt, Dir. of Communications We can be a hope for the world, said Bishop Sally Dyck in her Episcopal Address

More information

Call to Action Setting goals to grow vital congregations. Frequently Asked Questions

Call to Action Setting goals to grow vital congregations. Frequently Asked Questions Call to Action Setting goals to grow vital congregations Frequently Asked Questions Metrics and Goals for Congregations The Call to Action report said that The United Methodist Church is adverse to metrics.

More information

Near the dawn of Christianity, being a follower of Jesus meant serious, all-out commitment to His ambitious plans to impact the world.

Near the dawn of Christianity, being a follower of Jesus meant serious, all-out commitment to His ambitious plans to impact the world. Near the dawn of Christianity, being a follower of Jesus meant serious, all-out commitment to His ambitious plans to impact the world. Dale Galloway As people on the front lines, laity have a remarkable

More information

With Christians everywhere, we worship the only true God - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit who is both one essence and three persons.

With Christians everywhere, we worship the only true God - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit who is both one essence and three persons. Like a strong oak, Bonhomme Presbyterian Church has been growing in the West County of St. Louis, Missouri, for over 200 years. Just as a single tree is made up of many different parts, so we are a single

More information

March 22, Dear Members of First United Methodist Church of Brighton,

March 22, Dear Members of First United Methodist Church of Brighton, March 22, 2018 Dear Members of First United Methodist Church of Brighton, Greetings to you in the name of the Risen Christ. I look forward to celebrating the promise and hope of resurrection on Sunday,

More information

VITALCONGREGATIONS INITIATIVE2016

VITALCONGREGATIONS INITIATIVE2016 VITALCONGREGATIONS INITIATIVE2016 Content Vital Congregations 5 Overview & Getting Started 6 Setting Goals Online 8 Intro to VitalSigns 10 Available Resources 12 Moving Preparation 14 Transition Worksheet

More information

God First 2K16-2K20. The 7th Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church

God First 2K16-2K20. The 7th Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church The 7th Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church God First Ministry Plan 2K16-2K20 BISHOP SAMUEL L. GREEN, SR, Presiding Prelate MRS. PHYLLIS N. GREEN, Episcopal Supervisor WORDS FROM

More information

General Guidelines for Local Church Laity Leadership

General Guidelines for Local Church Laity Leadership GREATER NEW JERSEY ANNUAL CONFERENCE The United Methodist Church 1001 Wickapecko Dr., Ocean, NJ 07712 732-359-1000 Fax 732-359-1049 Toll Free: 877-677-2594 www.gnjumc.org Contact: Rosa Williams Conference

More information

Church Planting 101 Morning Session

Church Planting 101 Morning Session Session 1: Church Planting 101 Participant Book - Morning Page 1 Church Planting 101 Morning Session Welcome to the first session of the Lay Missionary Planting Network, a training opportunity offered

More information

1. How do you reflect a life and ministry rooted in Wesleyan theology, spirituality and practice?

1. How do you reflect a life and ministry rooted in Wesleyan theology, spirituality and practice? Page 1 of 6 1. How do you reflect a life and ministry rooted in Wesleyan theology, spirituality and practice? I was very blessed in seminary to have been formed by students and faculty who were bent towards

More information

Organizational Structure Core Leadership Team

Organizational Structure Core Leadership Team Organizational Structure Core Leadership Team Unity Church: A UMC Community 1910 East Broadway Northwood, OH, 43619 Adopted: September 29, 2012 Adapted: It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to

More information

ATTACHMENT (D) Presbytery of New Harmony Evaluation & Long Range Planning Committee Update Report to the Stated Meeting of Presbytery October 10, 2017

ATTACHMENT (D) Presbytery of New Harmony Evaluation & Long Range Planning Committee Update Report to the Stated Meeting of Presbytery October 10, 2017 Presbytery of New Harmony Evaluation & Long Range Planning Committee Update Report to the Stated Meeting of Presbytery October 10, 2017 Recent events in the life of our denomination have presented us with

More information

Site Profile: Ascension Evangelical Lutheran, Thousand Oaks, Calif. Stewardship

Site Profile: Ascension Evangelical Lutheran, Thousand Oaks, Calif. Stewardship Site Profile: Ascension Evangelical Lutheran, Thousand Oaks, Calif. Stewardship Part of the, a Lilly Foundation grant administered by Luther Seminary A. Quick Facts Congregation Name: Location: Denomination:

More information

Historic Tanner Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church Annual Church Program

Historic Tanner Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church Annual Church Program Historic Tanner Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church 2018 2019 Annual Church Program HISTORIC TANNER CHAPEL AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH 2018 2019 Church Theme & Annual Program Greetings Tanner

More information

Questions for an Episcopal Nominee from the Southeastern Jurisdictional Committee on Episcopacy Robin Scott-North Alabama Conference Nominee

Questions for an Episcopal Nominee from the Southeastern Jurisdictional Committee on Episcopacy Robin Scott-North Alabama Conference Nominee Questions for an Episcopal Nominee from the Southeastern Jurisdictional Committee on Episcopacy Robin Scott-North Alabama Conference Nominee 1. How do you reflect a life and ministry rooted in Wesleyan

More information

Compassion, Peace and Justice The August 2010 Survey

Compassion, Peace and Justice The August 2010 Survey Compassion, Peace and Justice The August 2010 Survey Table of Contents OVERVIEW... i HIGHLIGHTS... iii IMPORTANCE OF THE MINISTRIES WORK... 1 Importance of Types of Mission... 1 Compassion, Peace and Justice

More information

GRANTS FOR MINISTRIES WITH YOUNG PEOPLE United States Applicants

GRANTS FOR MINISTRIES WITH YOUNG PEOPLE United States Applicants GRANTS FOR MINISTRIES WITH YOUNG PEOPLE United States Applicants Application due JUNE 1 st (FOR 2016 FUNDING) Return application to: Young People s Ministries Attn: Grants Administrator PO Box 340003 Nashville,

More information

THE SHAPE OF EFFECTIVENESS IN PASTORAL MINISTRY Expectations for Clergy Performance Effectiveness

THE SHAPE OF EFFECTIVENESS IN PASTORAL MINISTRY Expectations for Clergy Performance Effectiveness THE SHAPE OF EFFECTIVENESS IN PASTORAL MINISTRY Expectations for Clergy Performance Effectiveness Jesus said, "You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit,

More information

Next Steps DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Next Steps DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Week 1 1 The Bible is stunningly silent regarding the physical appearance of Jesus. Isaiah simply says, He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire

More information

Landscape Sample Regional Association 1/4/19

Landscape Sample Regional Association 1/4/19 Landscape Sample Regional Association 1/4/19 Key Indicators Overall Satisfaction On the whole, I am satisfied with how things are in our Diocese. Overall Energy In this Diocese, it seems to me that we

More information

This pamphlet was produced by Young People s Ministries.

This pamphlet was produced by Young People s Ministries. This pamphlet was produced by Young People s Ministries. If you would like to learn more about the resources that Young People s Ministries offers, visit us at: https://umcyoungpeople.org This resource

More information

Local Church Lay Leaders/Lay Members to Annual Conference: What s My Job?

Local Church Lay Leaders/Lay Members to Annual Conference: What s My Job? Local Church Lay Leaders/Lay Members to Annual Conference: What s My Job? January 27, 2016 Copyright 2016 Discipleship Ministries Permission granted for use by leaders in ministry settings May not sell

More information

Transformation 2.0: Baseline Survey Summary Report

Transformation 2.0: Baseline Survey Summary Report Transformation 2.0: Baseline Survey Summary Report Authorized by: The Presbytery of Cincinnati Congregational Development Task Force Conducted and Produced by The Missional Network 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS

More information

Narrative Budget Booklet Draft 1

Narrative Budget Booklet Draft 1 Narrative Budget Booklet 2019 Draft 1 2019 Upper New York Conference Budget Introduction The 2018 Narrative Budget Booklet proved to be incredibly helpful in enabling members across the UNY Conference

More information

Annual Assessment and Action Plan

Annual Assessment and Action Plan Annual Assessment and Action Plan To be completed by SPRC and Pastor after assessment meeting Due May 1 to District Superintendent Attached is the Annual Assessment and Action Plan Form (aka "Clergy Evaluation").

More information

PASTORAL TRANSITIONS

PASTORAL TRANSITIONS PASTORAL TRANSITIONS A Resource for Pastors and Local Churches in The United Methodist Church INTRODUCTION About that polity thing a word from Bishop Sally Dyck As every January rolls around, the cabinet

More information

The Meaning of Covenant Church Membership an Introduction

The Meaning of Covenant Church Membership an Introduction The Meaning of Covenant Church Membership an Introduction INTRODUCTION To be a member of a Christian church is to live as a New Testament Christian. We live in a time when too many are saying that church

More information

Presbytery of New Harmony Evaluation & Long Range Planning Committee Update Report to the Stated Meeting of Presbytery May 9, 2017

Presbytery of New Harmony Evaluation & Long Range Planning Committee Update Report to the Stated Meeting of Presbytery May 9, 2017 Presbytery of New Harmony Evaluation & Long Range Planning Committee Update Report to the Stated Meeting of Presbytery May 9, 2017 Recent events in the life of our denomination have presented us with exciting

More information

Church Governance, Succession Planning & Emergency Strategies. Deacon Stanley Featherstone

Church Governance, Succession Planning & Emergency Strategies. Deacon Stanley Featherstone Church Governance, Succession Planning & Emergency Strategies Deacon Stanley Featherstone INTRODUCTION Objectives To Share Strategies used by FBCG To encourage us all to think through the need for succession

More information

Metropolitan Community Churches Strategic Plan

Metropolitan Community Churches Strategic Plan Metropolitan Community Churches 2014 2018 Strategic Plan 1 U P D A T E D 3 0 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 4 MCC 2014-2018 Strategic Plan 10/30/2014 Governing Board Strategic Planning Framework and Background Governing

More information

Themes. Covision Report: July 7-8, Covision Report: Future Church Summit - Themes Page 1

Themes. Covision Report: July 7-8, Covision Report: Future Church Summit - Themes Page 1 Themes Covision Report: July 7-8, 2017 Covision Report: Future Church Summit - Themes Page 1 Themes: What draws us to this faith? Strong sense of community, caring and mutual connection. Centrality of

More information

OVERVIEW OF LETHBRIDGE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

OVERVIEW OF LETHBRIDGE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL OVERVIEW OF LETHBRIDGE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Lethbridge Christian School (an Alternative Program in the Public System that teaches from a Christ-centered perspective) was established to provide schooling based

More information

Board of Ordained Ministry 2018 Clergy Evaluation

Board of Ordained Ministry 2018 Clergy Evaluation Pastor s Self Eval S/PPRC Composite Board of Ordained Ministry 2018 Clergy Evaluation About This Form: This form is designed to provide a framework for evaluating the Pastor s work in ministry. It gives

More information

ITEM P.002 FOR ACTION

ITEM P.002 FOR ACTION ITEM P.002 FOR ACTION FOR PRESBYTERIAN MISSION AGENCY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR S OFFICE USE ONLY A. Audit E. Executive Committee I. Ministerial Teams B. Personnel & Nominating F. Resource Allocation & Stewardship

More information

ENDS INTERPRETATION Revised April 11, 2014

ENDS INTERPRETATION Revised April 11, 2014 ENDS INTERPRETATION Revised April 11, 2014 PART 1: MONITORING INFORMATION Prologue to The UUA Administration believes in the power of our liberal religious values to change lives and to change the world.

More information

Rev. Mike Ramsdell, Executive Director Center for Evangelism, Missions, & Church Growth

Rev. Mike Ramsdell, Executive Director Center for Evangelism, Missions, & Church Growth The people already connected with your church are often the most underused resource for growing a church. If our goal is to create a culture of growth it begins with the present members. Until present

More information

INTRODUCTION TO COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF INCLUSIVENESS

INTRODUCTION TO COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF INCLUSIVENESS INTRODUCTION TO COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OF INCLUSIVENESS 2008-2011 The Comprehensive Plan of Inclusiveness is a compilation of a year s planning, writing and editing of their mission, vision and program goals

More information

MINISTRY DESCRIPTIONS OF ASSOCIATIONAL OFFICERS, COUNCIL AND TEAMS

MINISTRY DESCRIPTIONS OF ASSOCIATIONAL OFFICERS, COUNCIL AND TEAMS MINISTRY DESCRIPTIONS OF ASSOCIATIONAL OFFICERS, COUNCIL AND TEAMS 1 Task Description of the LEGAL OFFICERS OF THE CORPORATION Election The Legal Officers of the Corporation shall be President/Director,

More information

Building Up the Body of Christ: Parish Planning in the Archdiocese of Baltimore

Building Up the Body of Christ: Parish Planning in the Archdiocese of Baltimore Building Up the Body of Christ: Parish Planning in the Archdiocese of Baltimore And he gave some as apostles, others as prophets, others as evangelists, others as pastors and teachers, to equip the holy

More information

2020 Vision A Three-Year Action Plan for the Michigan Conference UCC

2020 Vision A Three-Year Action Plan for the Michigan Conference UCC 2020 Vision A Three-Year Action Plan for the Michigan Conference UCC Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and, Love your

More information

I. Discerning God's Will Is All-important to Those Who Desire to Walk With Him.

I. Discerning God's Will Is All-important to Those Who Desire to Walk With Him. DISCERNING GOD'S WILL Purpose: To communicate the importance of seeking God's will and how to discern His will when making decisions. Learning Objectives: 1. To understand God's desire to lead us in His

More information

Church of Orange GUIDING PRINCIPLES. ARTICLE 1: MISSION PRINCIPLES (MP) Defining what difference this church will make for whom and to what extent

Church of Orange GUIDING PRINCIPLES. ARTICLE 1: MISSION PRINCIPLES (MP) Defining what difference this church will make for whom and to what extent Church of Orange GUIDING PRINCIPLES ARTICLE 1: MISSION PRINCIPLES (MP) Defining what difference this church will make for whom and to what extent MP 1.0 COMPREHENSIVE MISSION STATEMENT The Mission of First

More information

ADDRESS OF HIS EXCELLENCY ARCHBISHOP CHRISTOPHE PIERRE, APOSTOLIC NUNCIO TO THE UNITED STATES

ADDRESS OF HIS EXCELLENCY ARCHBISHOP CHRISTOPHE PIERRE, APOSTOLIC NUNCIO TO THE UNITED STATES 1 Dear Brothers in Christ, ADDRESS OF HIS EXCELLENCY ARCHBISHOP CHRISTOPHE PIERRE, APOSTOLIC NUNCIO TO THE UNITED STATES TO THE UNITED STATES CONFERENCE OF CATHOLIC BISHOPS 2018 SPRING GENERAL ASSEMBLY

More information

Office of Hispanic Ministry

Office of Hispanic Ministry Office of Hispanic Ministry Diocesan Plan of the OHM under the guideline of the Pastoral Plan of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond (FY-2016-FY-2019) 7800 Carousel Lane Richmond, VA 23294-9159 Tel. 804-622-5241

More information

2012 UMC Vital Congregations Planning Guide

2012 UMC Vital Congregations Planning Guide 2012 UMC Vital Congregations Planning Guide A Strategic Plan for United Methodist Congregations To Fulfill the Mission of The United Methodist Church -- New York Annual Conference Introduction The United

More information

UNDERSTANDING SHARED MINISTRY. Council on Finance and Administration

UNDERSTANDING SHARED MINISTRY. Council on Finance and Administration UNDERSTANDING SHARED MINISTRY Council on Finance and Administration The United Methodist connection means we can do more good together than we can do alone. God s kingdom is bigger and goes much further

More information

Using The NOW Model For Effective Ministry In Small Congregations by William F. Appleby

Using The NOW Model For Effective Ministry In Small Congregations by William F. Appleby Hinton Models for Ministry Using The NOW Model For Effective Ministry In Small Congregations by William F. Appleby Models for Ministry in small membership churches are occasional publications of the Hinton

More information

THE NEW EVANGELIZATION For The Transmission of the Christian Faith. Faith-Worship-Witness USCCB STRATEGIC PLAN

THE NEW EVANGELIZATION For The Transmission of the Christian Faith. Faith-Worship-Witness USCCB STRATEGIC PLAN THE NEW EVANGELIZATION For The Transmission of the Christian Faith Faith-Worship-Witness 2013-2016 USCCB STRATEGIC PLAN 4 PART I THEMATIC FRAMEWORK The New Evangelization: Faith-Worship-Witness Introduction

More information

First Partial Report Committee on Relationships with Others

First Partial Report Committee on Relationships with Others First Partial Report Re: Book of Order revision The Church Order of the Unitas Fratrum (COUF, 2009, Chapter XIII, 683) states, In the event that an ordained minister is received from another denomination,

More information

PASTORAL & MINISTRY DIRECTOR APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT PERSONAL EDUCATION CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES

PASTORAL & MINISTRY DIRECTOR APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT PERSONAL EDUCATION CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES PASTORAL & MINISTRY DIRECTOR APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT 639 E. Felicita Ave. Escondido, CA 92025 (760) 745-2541 Website: www.efcc.org Employment at Emmanuel Faith Community Church is employment at-will,

More information

For over 30 years, GBOD has been on the

For over 30 years, GBOD has been on the A B O U T G B O D For over 30 years, GBOD has been on the journey of making disciples for Jesus Christ. An agency of The United Methodist Church, GBOD helps local church, district, and conference leaders

More information

RETHINK how to. grow and strengthen. your congregation. and discover the communications tools and resources available.

RETHINK how to. grow and strengthen. your congregation. and discover the communications tools and resources available. RETHINK how to grow and strengthen your congregation. Learn about RETHINK CHURCH and discover the communications tools and resources available. Church isn t simply a place to go but a place to go do something

More information

Office of Hispanic Ministry

Office of Hispanic Ministry Office of Hispanic Ministry Diocesan Plan of the OHM 7800 Carousel Lane Richmond, VA 23294-9159 Tel. 804-622-5241 Fax. 804-358-9159 omh@richmonddiocese.org www.richmonddiocese.org/hispanic Table of Contents

More information

STATE OF THE CHURCH ADDRESS June 13, 2009

STATE OF THE CHURCH ADDRESS June 13, 2009 STATE OF THE CHURCH ADDRESS June 13, 2009 J. B. Phillips, once wrote a book with the title, Your God Is Too Small. Whether you agree with his theology or not, his premise is right on target. It doesn t

More information

ALL AFRICA CONFERENCE OF CHURCHES (AACC) THE POST-JUBILEE ASSEMBLY PROGRAMMATIC THRUSTS (REVISED)

ALL AFRICA CONFERENCE OF CHURCHES (AACC) THE POST-JUBILEE ASSEMBLY PROGRAMMATIC THRUSTS (REVISED) ALL AFRICA CONFERENCE OF CHURCHES (AACC) THE POST-JUBILEE ASSEMBLY PROGRAMMATIC THRUSTS 2014 2018 (REVISED) THE POST-JUBILEE PROGRAMMATIC THRUSTS 2014 2018 (REVISED) Table of CONTENTS INTRODUCTION... 4

More information

Disciples of Christ. 1. A disciple is defined as a student, learner, or pupil.

Disciples of Christ. 1. A disciple is defined as a student, learner, or pupil. Introduction Disciples of Christ 1. A disciple is defined as a student, learner, or pupil. A. One can be a disciple of anyone, however, in the Bible the word is used most often to refer to a follower of

More information

Our Desires and God s Will for Us

Our Desires and God s Will for Us Our Desires and God s Will for Us What do you really want? What are the deepest desires of your heart? What do you think or feel God wants of you? How are they the same or different? In what ways are you

More information

A New Model of Governance for Aldersgate United Methodist Church

A New Model of Governance for Aldersgate United Methodist Church A New Model of Governance for Aldersgate United Methodist Church From the Book of Discipline 247.2: The charge conference, the district superintendent, and the pastor shall organize and administer the

More information

2018 Upper New York Conference Budget (Draft 1, )

2018 Upper New York Conference Budget (Draft 1, ) 2018 Upper New York Conference Budget (Draft 1, 1-17-17) Introduction Budgets tell a story. This budget s story is of a family of churches stretched across Upper New York (UNY), united by their love for

More information

POSITION DESCRIPTION Director of Connectional Ministries

POSITION DESCRIPTION Director of Connectional Ministries POSITION DESCRIPTION Director of Connectional Ministries (2008, rev April2010a) Annual Conference Connectional Ministries 608, 2008 United Methodist Book of Discipline Each Annual Conference is responsible

More information

Rector St Mary & St James West Derby

Rector St Mary & St James West Derby Rector St Mary & St James West Derby F /Liverpooldiocese @Livdiocese www.liverpool.anglican.org Dear applicant We warmly welcome your interest in this exciting post and commend our diocese and the parish

More information

MISSIONS POLICY. Uniontown Bible Church 321 Clear Ridge Road Union Bridge, Md Revised, November 30, 2002

MISSIONS POLICY. Uniontown Bible Church 321 Clear Ridge Road Union Bridge, Md Revised, November 30, 2002 MISSIONS POLICY Uniontown Bible Church 321 Clear Ridge Road Union Bridge, Md. 21791 Revised, November 30, 2002 1 MISSIONS POLICY UNIONTOWN BIBLE CHURCH Uniontown Bible Church Mission Team Statement UNTIL

More information

Being Vital: Small Membership Congregations Pressing Forward

Being Vital: Small Membership Congregations Pressing Forward Being Vital: Small Membership Congregations Pressing Forward Phil. 3: 12-14 / Message I m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ,

More information

Team Rector North Meols Team

Team Rector North Meols Team Team Rector North Meols Team F /Liverpooldiocese @Livdiocese www.liverpool.anglican.org Dear applicant, We warmly welcome your interest in this exciting post and commend our diocese and the parish of the

More information

Lance Ousley Essay Question 1: What is it about the Diocese of Nevada that excites you and draws you to accept our invitation? (500 word maximum)

Lance Ousley Essay Question 1: What is it about the Diocese of Nevada that excites you and draws you to accept our invitation? (500 word maximum) Lance Ousley Essay Question 1: What is it about the Diocese of Nevada that excites you and draws you to accept our invitation? (500 word maximum) Your profile communicates to me beyond its words your deep

More information