The last order of business for Annual Conference 2016 was the ordering of ministry service on Saturday morning. Special music was provided by the Edenton Street UMC Choir and Brass Ensemble. Bishop Ward was the preacher and used the biblical text from John 20:19-29 as the foundation for the sermon. It was in this encounter… Continue Reading→
Bishop Ward Sets 2016-2017 Appointments
During Saturday morning’s session, Bishop Hope Morgan Ward recognized the new appointments in each of the eight districts. These new appointments included local church appointments as well as those appointed to various extension ministries. A total of 152 clergy received new appointments, which they will assume on July 1, 2016. Bishop Hope also gave thanks… Continue Reading→
Friday Evening Worship and Celebration
The Friday evening worship service began with soul-stirring music delivered by the choir from Prospect United Methodist Church in Maxton. The music set the tone for a celebratory event of the ministries of the laity. The Order of Deacons led the worship service. Guest preacher, Bishop Gregory Palmer presented a plaque to Bishop Hope Morgan… Continue Reading→
Friday Afternoon Business Session
Friday’s afternoon session opened with reports from the Duke Endowment and Jeff Severt for New Faith Communities. Severt announced the appointment of Greg Moore as the new director of New Faith Communities. In addition, Severt announced the 2016 “starting line-up” for New Faith Communities.* Rich Vaughan of Golden Cross spoke of what it means… Continue Reading→
Celebrating 20 Years of the Call of the Deacon
The conference was blessed with a video I Am Called, which interprets the ministry of Deacons. Deacons are called to help, called to Word, service, justice and compassion; called to move beyond the walls, to be the hands and feet of Jesus and lead others; called to see where God has worked, is working and… Continue Reading→
The Rev. Leonard E. Fairley Endorsed as Episcopal Nominee
The NCC delegation announced Friday that the nominee for the office of bishop is the Rev. Leonard E. Fairley. Annual Conference members stood to endorse Fairley as nominee for the office of Bishop in the Southeastern Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church. Election of bishops takes place during the SE Jurisdictional Conference this summer at Lake Junaluska. In… Continue Reading→
Creating a Welcoming Culture
“Welcoming,” says Craig Catlett of United Methodist Communications, “is bringing the friendly to the people.” It’s not as simple as meeting people at the door with a bulletin, handshake, and a smile anymore; churches have to communicate their values and presence clearly, both inside and outside the church building. First impressions are the beginning of… Continue Reading→
Soulcare for Veterans and Their Families
People who have served in the military can be invisible in congregations and communities. Unless they wear their USS Enterprise cap or stand when invited to at a worship service near July 4, we may not know about their service. In fact, 10 percent of our neighbors are veterans, and North Carolina has the most… Continue Reading→
Multiple Pockets of Generosity
Staff of the United Methodist Foundation, Inc., presented a workshop focused on different ways generosity is demonstrated in giving through annual income, accumulated assets and estate gifts. Participants learned how an endowment ministry can actually increase annual giving, what motivates people to give and how to recognize those who are likely to make a planned gift. … Continue Reading→