The Connection Goes On

              As you were reading our last newsletter, Paulette Frye, Annora Ables and the Pastor were at this year’s annual conference. The worship was refreshing, spirit filled, soulful and energetic. The preaching was outstanding. Bishop Michael Watson of the South Georgia episcopal area brought thought provoking messages filled with humor. The ordination service was inspiring as always. Ask Paulette about her front row seat for witnessing the commissioning and ordination of 32 candidates. Tae Beckling was commissioned as a probationary member of our annual conference. This means she will continue to meet annually with the Board of Ordained Ministry, frequently with her mentor, with a small group of other probationary members and her District Superintendent for at least 3 more years before she can be ordained an Elder in the UMC.

              The Reverend Allen Goss, who chaired the local arrangements committee for GENERAL conference sent a message to you. Allen wants you to know that “you are the best.” He reported that our annual conference did an exemplary job of hosting General Conference. That includes all those cookies you baked and the money you sent for the purchase of cookies.

              Many of us ask where the money goes that we send to our annual conference. This year the members of annual conference were given a 12 page booklet full of quotes from many people giving information to answer that question. The booklet is available in the church office or ask Pastor Eddie for a copy. This provides much more information than the tri-fold brochure used during stewardship emphasis.

              This year’s recipients of the Five Star Program award were announced. These were churches who completed the following 5 requirements.

              1) Give 100% of assigned apportionments.

              2) Have an ongoing program of mission education.

              3) Serve the local community through outreach.

              4) Contribute to a conference, national, international or UMCOR Advance Special.

              5) As a step toward becoming a Global Mission Partner, make a financial contribution of any size to a United Methodist missionary.

              We have until April 15 to accomplish this 5 items and submit our application and documentation. Anyone interested in making sure this happens this year? Contact your pastor.