Annual Conference 2013 - Day 2

Becoming world changers...that is the theme for this year's Indiana Annual Conference, the annual gathering of United Methodists from across the state. And we heard that theme hammered home this day. In the morning, we heard from two pastors in our state about vision, mission and building teams. Honestly, there wasn't anything I hadn't heard before, but it's important to be reminded along the journey of the signposts you must keep in mind if you intend to change the world through your local church.

Then, this afternoon, we sat down to do the hard work...the business of the Conference. And it was hard. One comment I heard mentioned last year was that the business part went by so quickly that it didn't seem to be that important. Some lamented the absence of the "arguments" or "debates" of years past. Those folks should have been happy today, for one issue dominated most of the conversation: how do we best support our retirees? There are financial concerns that lay alongside covenantal concerns. How do we best help our retirees have adequate insurance and health care? The Board's proposal was to do away with subsidies for retiree health insurance; the Conference rejected that proposal and voted to keep subsidies in place. There were many speeches pro and con, but the general feeling of the body seemed to be that we have a covenantal responsibility to continue to care for those who have served our churches. I have no doubt this issue will continue to come up as health care costs increase and churches keep asking to give less to the larger church.

During the day, I got to have three meals with people who have been world changers in my life. Meals with special folks are always uplifting and good for the soul. Throughout the day, seemingly more than yesterday, I connected, even if briefly, with several people I have known through the years—in the hallways, in the exhibits, even in worship. I appreciate those who have changed my world for the better, who have been Jesus to me so very often.

At the end of the day, we got a chance to hear from the Africa University Choir and their vice-chancellor who said he wasn't a preacher, but brought a message most preachers would envy. The choir was great as they sang to us in several different languages and reminded us of the many ways this Conference has and continues to make a difference across the continent of Africa by being a part of AU. Being United Methodist means I'm part of a global church. It's amazing to think that what I give here can provide a new way of life for someone there, someone I will most likely never meet. The sweet sounds of the choir reminded me of that tonight.

So, another night of rest, then to ordination tomorrow. Blessings to those who will be ordained and commissioned tomorrow. May you know God's faithfulness always.

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