amazing grace – ooh nay thla nah

By Deb Steransky

“This is a day of new beginnings, time to remember and move on,” says the hymn the members of Annual Conference sang at the end of the morning service Friday. The need for us as United Methodists to seek new beginnings and enter into repentance for acts of atrocities inflicted on Native Peoples in the past was the focus of the poignant service. While we in present day America did not participate in the crimes committed to the Native Peoples, we do have a dubious history. Rev. Mike Bealla recalled that the Sand Creek Massacre on November 29, 1864, was led by former Methodist pastors.Rev. Larry Siikanen introduced Otto and Barbara Braidedhair of the Northern Cheyenne Nation. Barbara is the niece of a young girl who was taken from her family and brought to the Carlisle Indian School to be “educated.” She was never seen by her family again.Ruby Olson compared the ravished and bloodied man left along the road to die in Jesus’ parable about the Good Samaritan to the way Native Peoples have been treated. There is an institutionalized acceptance of oppression that pervades

our culture, and for that we need to repent and find a new view.To that end the service moved us through the ways we may currently think of Native Peoples to accept a more accurate picture. After singing the first verse of “Amazing Grace” in Cherokee and then in English, we prepared our hearts in an Act of Centering, during which we used the colors and directions of the Medicine Wheel to recognize our God as pure and as the provider of all things. We are all part of His family.A dialogue between a white person, as represented by Rev. Jim House, and a Native American person, as represented by Rev. Larry Siikanen, revealed where some of the prejudices originate and how the Native Peoples are still being repressed today. Slowly, the white person understands and realizes the need to acknowledge our historical role and present role. He recognizes the need to repent. Native and white then pray together with the congregation a prayer for peace and love among all peoples of all cultures and colors.

Members of the conference began an Act of Repentance with a centering prayer.

Rev. Michael Druck passes the mantle of ministry to Pastor Brent Stauffer.

PHOTO BY SANDII PEIFFER

Amazing Grace – Ooh Nay Thla Nah

Celebration of Ministry

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

By Bethany Wood

The congregation of the Susquehanna Annual Conference gathered to celebrate the ministries of retiring

pastors, witness the passing of the stoles from the retiring class to the incoming ordination class, and view the historic examination for admission into full connection to those being admitted as elders.

The evening began with the congregation singing “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing,” followed by opening prayer lead by Rev. Michelle Whitlock.

The central themes of the service moved in four parts: The Journey of the Word, The Journey of Sacrament, The Journey of Order and Service, and the Often Overlooked Journey.

The Journey of the Word was a time for honoring the retirees. Each was greeted personally by Bishop Jeremiah Park. Honoring service and commitment to the people served and Savior-loved was key. Ministry was related to the living out of the Word, and the grace surrounding that call.

The Journey of the Sacrament began with the proclamation of the Great Commission found in Matthew 28, and underlined the importance of baptism and communion in pastoral ministry.

The Journey of Order and Service was based on Ephesians 4, where persons are

raised up to be pastors, evangelists, and teachers to equip people for the works of service. Lovingly, retirees were reminded of the many “hats” worn in the course of life in the parish. Worship planner, financial advisor, visionary, manager, and coach were just a few mentioned. Three books, the “Book of Discipline,” “The United Methodist Hymnal,” and “The Book of Worship” were placed on the tables on the stage. These symbolized, along with a towel and basin, the call of service.

The Often Overlooked Journey recognized the pivotal contribution of families and spouses in supporting a pastor in the performance of her/his duties. Spouses and family members were invited to stand and receive the gratitude of the assembly for their sacrifices – all for the sake of Christ.

After the Prayer of Thanksgiving for Journeys of Service, an offering was taken to benefit the churches in Mongolia.

The evening’s message was given by artist and pastor Joe Castillo. Entitled “Sandstory: Epic Stories in a New Light,” he began by gently asserting that stories engage and draw us in. By exchanging life stories, we get to know and influence one another. The world’s greatest storyteller was Jesus, and with his death

A witness to making d isc iples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world

PHOTO BY SANDII PEIFFER CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

S e v e n t h S e s s i o n

J u n e 1 1 , 2 0 1 6 • Vo l . 7

THE CHURCHES OF THE SUSQUEHANNA CONFERENCE, THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

2 Susquehanna Daily LINK - June 11, 2016 Susquehanna Daily LINK - June 11, 2016 3

By Skip Spangler Susquehanna Daily LINK Editor

It was our turn to move. We were introduced to the church, walked through the parsonage, went home, made the announcements, packed our boxes, saw everything onto a truck, said our good-byes, finished the last-minute cleaning, and made good a promise to stay overnight in a motel with a swimming pool.

The next morning we arrived in a new place.

The movers arrived. Furnishings were unloaded. Boxes were sorted. Folks from the church stopped by and introduced themselves. The manager of the local cable company made it his mission to have our box installed by noon. Lunch was waiting in the refrigerator. Dinner was dropped off that evening. We began to settle in.

At the end of his letters, the Apostle Paul often asked the church to welcome a person or two. To the Roman church, Paul commends our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae. (Romans 16:1) Writing to Corinth, Paul asks the church to welcome Timothy and see to it that he has nothing to fear… for he is carrying on the work of the Lord, just as I am. (1 Corinthians 15:10) Paul closes his note to the church in Colossae with a word about Tychius: He is coming with Onesimus,

our faithful and dear brother, who is one of you. They will tell you everything that is happening here. (Colossians 4:8-9) Onesimus may have been the runaway servant Paul asked Philemon to welcome back to his life.

This year well over 130 Susquehanna Conference churches will say farewell to their present pastor, and then welcome a new pastor. Those graces will begin before moving day, and they will continue long after. Welcoming new people into our lives isn’t finished with a smile and a handshake; it calls us to always look beyond the gifts we expect to receive, so we can discover the unique gifts the Holy Spirit gives to each of us. When churches create spaces that welcome the gifts God has given to each us, they become vital congregations. They create new spaces for new people. They raise up new leaders, and make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation the world.

The story goes that on his way to Rome, Ignatius, who was the bishop of Antioch, wrote a letter to the bishop of Ephesus. Using words from a letter Tychius may have delivered to an old friend, he asked Bishop Onesimus “to refresh his heart in Christ.” It’s hard to know if that Onesimus was the same Onesimus of the Bible, but I like to think so. Welcoming new people into new places is what churches do.

O V E R C O F F E E

8:15 a.m. — Bible Study

Joe Castillo, a finalist on America’s Got Talent, will motive, inspire, and touch your heart as he draws an art story in sand, utilizing music and his Hands-on light table

9:15 a.m. —Third Plenary

We’ll complete any work that needs to be done, read changes of appointments, and be sent forth to create new spaces for new people.

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Box Lunches

Deacon’s Lunch will gather in Larsen 237 at 11:30 a.m.

12:30 p.m. — Clergy Robing

Clergy of the Susquehanna Conference will gather in Brubaker Auditorium to robe and form to process into the ordination service. The procession will form at 12:45 p.m.

1 p.m. — Celebration of Ministry

This afternoon we will ordain two persons as elders and one as a deacon. We will also commission one person as a provisional deacon, and six persons as provisional elders of the Annual Conference.

WHAT’s UP FOR TODAY

Connect with us via Social Media

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Ordination Service Speaker

Bishop Ernest S. Lyght, the son of William and Attrue Lyght, was born in Salisbury, Maryland. Growing up in a Methodist parsonage, he lived in Princess Anne, Maryland, Chester, Pennsylvania, Atlantic City, New Jersey, and Wilmington, Delaware, where he graduated from Wilmington High School. He received a B.A. degree in history from Morgan State University and an M.Div. degree from Drew University. Princeton Theological Seminary awarded him the Th. M. degree and the D.Min. degree. Bloomfield College (Bloomfield, NJ) awarded him an honorary doctorate degree, as did Centenary College (Hackettstown, NJ) in 1996.

The Peninsula-DelawareConference ordained Ernest deacon and elder. He later transferred to the Southern New Jersey Conference, where he served three pastoral appointments: St. Mary Street Union Parish, Burlington, NJ; The Church of The Good shepherd, Willingboro, NJ; Old Orchards UMC, Cherry Hill, NJ. He then transferred to the former Northern New Jersey Conference and served for ten years as pastor of The St. Mark’s UMC, Montclair, NJ. This pastorate was followed by a 7-year term as District Superintendent of the Raritan District.

Ernest served as a Jurisdictional Conference delegate in 1976 and a General Conference delegate in 1984, 1988, 1992 and 1996. He has served on a variety of conference, community and general church agencies/boards, including the General Board of Church and Society (1984-1992) and the General Board of Global Ministries (1992-1996). He served as a Drew University Trustee from 1983 to 2004, when he was elected as a trustee emeritus.

The Northeastern Jurisdictional Conference elected Ernest to the episcopacy in 1996 and assigned him to the New York Area. In 2004 he was assigned to the West Virginia Area. Ernest served as president of the United Methodist Men’s Commission during the 2000-2004 quadrennium, and served as a member of the General Council on Finance and Administration. He also served a second two-year term as secretary of the Council of Bishops.

Ernest and Eleanor Bell Lyght have two sons, Eric and Erwyn, and two grandchildren, Corinne and Shawn.

A UMNS photo by Mike DuBose

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Service of Commissioning and Ordination

Dilip R. Abayasekara

Commissioning/Provisional Deacon Membership

Odained Elders

Left to right: Rebecca L. Harmon Torres, Joshua W. Davinsizer, Stephanie P. Rupert, Timothy R. Parker,

Jonathan D. Morningstar, and Audrey M. Brosious

Commissioning/Provisional Elder Membership

PHOTOS BY STACY ECKERT

Bishop’s Partners in Mission (7090) calls us to Imagine No Malaria and Imagine No More Debt! One hundred percent of the proceeds from this fund go to Imagine No Malaria (the UMC’s global campaign to fight malaria) and paying down the debt of the mortgage of Mission Central so they can focus on their core mission of connecting God’s resources with human need. Bishop Park is inviting individuals, congregations, and church groups to join him and be Partners in Mission, committing to $100 or more a year. Whatever you can give helps the lives of those locally and around the world. God is still calling us to imagine great things; he is calling us to Imagine What We Can Do Together!

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Service of Commissioning and Ordination, Saturday, June 11, 2016

...Creating New Places for New People

Janet L. Durrwachter, Brent A. Stouffer Megan C. Burd-Harris

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J. Marlene Atanasoff Spiritual Formation Award Rev. Dr. Russell Hart, Rev. Patricia Woolever - recipient,

and Bishop Jeremiah J. Park

Thomas K. Cartwright Scholarship Rev. Chuck Sprenkle, Jacey Johnson - recipient,

and Bishop Jeremiah J. Park.

The Flying Dove AwardCarlisle UMC, Harrisburg District - recipient, received by Joanne Reynolds, John Seaton, Rev. Mira Hewlett, Rev. James Van Zandt,

Charles Reynolds, and Bishop Jeremiah J. Park.

The Flying Dove AwardRev. Michelle Bodle, Christine Johnson, First UMC,

Williamsport District - recipient, and Bishop Jeremiah J. Park.

The Rev. Dr. Maud K. Jensen / Rev. Dr. Karen E. Layman Memorial Scholarship

Rev. Phyllis Bowers, DeAnn Newhouse, Valley Parish, Altoona District - recipient, Pastor Anna Layman Knox,

and Bishop Jeremiah J. Park

The Earl N. Rowe Memorial Scholarship AwardRev. Phyllis Bowers, David Calovi - recipient,

and Bishop Jeremiah J.Park

Annual Conference Award Recipients

The Bishop D. Frederick Wertz AwardRev. Jeffrey LeCrone,

Zedna Haverstock - recipient, and Bishop Jeremiah J. Park.

The Howard and Elizabeth Brinton AwardRev. John Kratz, Rev. Mira Hewlett, Carlisle UMC, Harrisburg

District - recipient, Rev. Lenore Hosier, and Bishop Jeremiah J. Park.

PHOTOS BY STACY ECKERT

The Denman AwardRev. Dr. Dennis L. Otto,

Director of CongregationalDevelopment - clergy recipient and Bishop Jeremiah J. Park.

By John Kratz

The Missional Board celebrates the presentation of Mission Excellence Grants to eight congregations of the Susquehanna Annual Conference. Utilizing a non-designated mission fund, the Missional Board expanded the Howard and Elizabeth Brinton Award so that one congregation from each district may now be celebrated for their excellent work in the area of missions. Each of the following congregations will receive a certificate of recognition suitable for framing and a cash gift of $500, which is to be used for a mission project

that the congregation chooses. (In the case of a two-point charge, each congregation receives a $250 grant.) These congregations were nominated by their district superintendent and affirmed by the Missional Board of the Susquehanna Annual Conference.

The inaugural recipients of the Susquehanna Conference Excellence in missions Award go to:

• Altoona District: Altoona East End/Fairview Charge• Harrisburg District: Calvary UMC, Harrisburg• Lewisburg District: Catawissa Avenue. UMC

• Scranton/Wilkes-Barre District: Plains UMC• State College District: Runville UMC• Williamsport District: Trinity UMC, Jersey Shore• York District: Greenmount UMCThe Missional Board continues to

select one individual who will receive the Howard and Elizabeth Brinton Award for mission excellence. This year’s recipient is Mira Hewlett, who will be recognized during the Awards Luncheon for her dedicated and consistent work in a variety of national and international mission work.

Mission Excellence Grants

THE HARRY HOSIER AWARD Rev. Charles W. Salisbury, Ruby Olson, Messiah UMC, York

District - recipient, and Bishop Jeremiah J. Park.

The Denman AwardRev. Greg Myers and

Bishop Jeremiah J. Park

Rev. Myers accepted the award for Donna and Attorney Ray

Hamill, Central UMC, Honesdale, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre District -

laity recipients.


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2016 Class of Retirees

PHOTO BY STACY ECKERT

Back row, left to right: Rev. Douglas M. Compton, Pastor Michael T. Bodek, Rev. Dr. Philip T. Wanck, Rev. Michael A. Druck, Rev. Robert A. Graybill, Rev. Jay A. Morris, and Rev. H. Aden Wertz III.

Middle row, left to right: Pastor Troy R. Harrold, Rev. Dr. Stephen E. Gallaher, Pastor Donna Lynne Vaux, Rev.Dr. Michael Shambora, Rev. Keith R. Beasley-Topliffe, Rev. William J. Danis, and Rev. Dr. E. Ann Walker.

Front row, left to right: Pastor Ann R. Runnels, Pastor Vicki A. Jordan, Pastor Kathleen M. Ehrsam, Pastor Brenda D. Mitchell, Rev. Bruce Wallace, and Rev. Charles W. Sprenkle.

Not Pictured: Pastor Gary M. Blankley, Pastor Judy C. Christmann, Pastor George W. Clippinger, Pastor Robert J. Eddinger, Rev. John R. Eidam Sr., Rev. Thomas A. Page,Rev. Dr. Jeffrey L. Rarich, Pastor Jean L. Swett, and Pastor Patricia A. Wise.

By Ed Preston

Rob Visscher opened the Mission Central report with a sharing of an over abundance of God’s blessings. Shoe donations from those attending Annual Conference had already filled the large Mission Central truck, which was replaced temporarily by a smaller truck so the large one could unload. That truck was promptly filled and removed so the large truck could return, and at the time of his report, Visscher shared that it was already half-full again! This means that we have donated 15 full pallets of shoes for those in need.

The Mission Central network continues to grow, with 34 HUBs now operating in the Northeast Jurisdiction. Mission Central itself has only a small paid staff, but has seen over 8,000 volunteers serving God at the warehouse of wonders. Another 3,000 are serving in the 34 HUBs. All of these volunteer efforts highlight Mission Central’s nature as a volunteer organization.

Speaking of volunteers, Jean Norris was honored with the Harry Overholtzer Volunteer of the Year Award. Offering thanks for the recognition, Jean shared that “when you volunteer at Mission Central, you get far more than you give.”

While the Capital Campaign for mortgage retirement fell short of its goal for the year, $143,000 was raised toward that goal. About $800,000 remains on the mortgage. The elimination of this burden would free up about $60,000 annually,

funds which could be redirected into ministry.

Rob Rider, president of the board of directors of Mission Central, addressed the Conference, declaring that, “You are Mission Central. We, the Board, just coordinate your efforts.” He shared that the last four-year strategic plan had been about 90 percent accomplished, even though it had been considered a “stretch objective.” A new five-year plan has been developed, the first goal of which is the retirement of the mortgage debt. There are also plans to enhance the Mission Central facility, enhance various HUB facilities and improve the HUB network, and the many partnerships in which Mission Central works. A particular need is to improve communications with outside organizations not directly related to Mission Central.

In 2017 a complete VBS curriculum will be offered by Mission Central, based around the story of Mission Central and the broad concept of mission. It is projected to be available for about a $100 donation. A 52-week devotional program including a variety of other resources is also available on flash drive.

The report was punctuated by the surprise presentation from Bishop Park to Visscher of a check for $71,000 to be applied to the capital campaign. As he presented the gift, the bishop exhorted the Annual Conference to redouble its efforts to support Mission Central through the retirement of this obligation.

Mission Central Report

All sessions will take place at: Orchard Hill • Route 17 & Orchard Way, Millerstown, PA

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Session I: (Fall, 2016) Friday, October 21 at 6:30 PM till Saturday, October 22 at 4:30 PM

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Session II: (Winter, 2017)Friday, February 24 at 6:30 PM till Saturday, February 25 at 4:30 PM

• Simple Prayer;• Prayer of the Forsaken;• Prayer of Tears;• Intercessory Prayer;• Corporate Prayer.

Session III: (Spring, 2017)Friday, April 21 at 6:30 PM till Saturday, April 22 at 4:30 PM

• Prayer of the Heart;• Meditative Prayer;• Contemplative Prayer;• Discernment;• Celtic Spirituality and Labyrinth.

Session IV: (Summer, 2017) Friday, August 18 at 6:30 PM till Saturday, August 19 at 4:30 PM

• Wrestling with God;• Prayer of Suffering; • Authoriative and Radical Prayer;• Prayer and the Powers that Be;• A Prayer Walk.

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Rev. Robert Rider and Rev. Rob Visscher are seen receiving a donation to its capital fund campaign from the Bishop’s Fund for Mission.

Facebook: facebook.com/SUSUMC and Twitter: twitter.com/SUSCONF



By Richard DeMarte

Chairman William Spencer introduced three resolutions to the Annual Conference. The first dealt with the annuity rate of $613, which is a one percent increase from the previous year. The second, detailed by Pension Officer Kelly Cox, listed the retirees, effective July 1, 2016. This section of the report was corrected to include the recent retirement of Pastor Jean Swett. The third related to rental/housing allowances for retired or disabled clergy.

All were passed.The Board of Pensions also announced

its intention to enter into an agreement with One Exchange, a division of Willis Tower

Watson. It is a health care collective. This exchange was recommended to us by both the Baltimore-Washington and Upper New York Conferences. It is a program in which retirees will receive a pre-loaded health care card fueled by a stipend based on years of service. Retired pastors can “shop around” for the health care that best fits their particular situation. Funds not used may then be applied to prescription plans and expenses.

One Exchange will be contacting each retiree and disabled clergy to explain the options available and assist in the selection process. Fall workshops will be set up throughout the conference.

Board of Pensions and Health Benefits

By Morgan Robinette

Repentance is an important aspect of my Christian life, an act in which I normally engage while in prayer, alone with God. Today, however, during a very special service, I and the congregation of Annual Conference repented on a large scale be-fore representatives from the Commission on Native American Ministries on behalf of the Native American community. We repented not only for the United Method-ist Church’s role in past atrocities, but also for current ignorance and injustice inflict-ed upon Native Americans.

Throughout the duration of the ser-vice, there was an atmosphere of mutual respect. Both CONAM and Conference members agreed that neither side was en-tirely without fault, and that no one was passing blame or attempting to incite guilt. Furthermore, the United Methodist Church was not simply apologizing for past cruelties against the Native Ameri-cans, such as the Carlisle Indian School; rather, we were repenting for our contri-bution to the injustices faced by Native Americans in both the past and the pres-ent. We were repenting for our support of companies and organizations that pro-mote their oppression. We were repenting

for allowing skin color to hinder us from viewing Native Americans as God’s chil-dren and loving them as so, as well as fail-ing to acknowledge the fact that they are our equals.

The service today was about more than recognizing and apologizing for our acts of insolence and unjust cruelty. It was something more as we stood before CO-NAM and the Native American commu-nity in mutual respect and trust, agreeing to begin anew. With our act of repentance, we pledged to turn from our past mistakes and refuse to inflict more injustice. With that agreement began the reestablishment of our relationship with Native Ameri-cans, a relationship strained by years of cruelty and oppression.

While beautifully unique and promis-ing, today’s ceremony was only the be-ginning. Native Americans continue to face poverty, low self-esteem, poor edu-cation, and harsh stereotypes. But the ser-vice marked the starting point on the trek for equality, at the end of which all are viewed and loved as God’s children, re-gardless of skin color. It may be a lengthy journey, but it is one on which the con-gregation of the Susquehanna Conference has embarked. And we can be assured that we will not find ourselves alone, for God, our Father, the Great Spirit, the Creator, is already leading the way.

PERSPECTIVE FROM A YOUTH

Only the beginning

By Ryan Krauss

Rev. Bill Pipp, summarized the ethos of the Commission on Equitable Compensation: “We do what we do because we love Jesus,” he said. Rev. Pipp then explained that the commission oversees four areas, which are 1) recommending standards for pastoral support; 2) administering funds for pastoral support; 3) providing counsel and materials based on that pastoral support; and 4) setting arrearage policies adopted by the Annual Conference. Regarding this fourth goal, Rev. Pipp noted that the commission did not know if the arrearage policies specified in the Discipline had changed as a result of General Conference. Those policies will become clear with the printing of the 2016 Discipline.

The report by the commission offered two important changes in their 2016 recommendation. First, the commission recommended minimum salary standards for full-time clergy serving as pastors in the charges of the annual conference to

Commission on Equitable

Compensation

Rev. Bill PippPHOTO BY SANDII PEIFFER

reflect a two percent increase over that of 2016. The commission also recommended increasing stipends to pastors temporarily supplying pulpits to $75 per single church charge and at least $15 additional per church in a multiple church charge. A friendly amendment was accepted to include all pastors — not just “ordained” — in the language of this stipend. A further amendment was adopted to apply the additional $15 stipend to churches with multiple services.

The recommendations of the commission were adopted as amended.

By Richard DeMarte

Rev. Mark Reisinger of Beaver Memorial UMC presented two resolutions for action by the seventh Annual Conference Session of the Susquehanna Conference.

A resolution concerning mental wellness was approved. The resolution called on conference churches to celebrate Mental Health Awareness month in May and designate the third Sunday with a special offering (#4050). The resolution also designates September as Suicide Prevention Month, and sets the first week of October as Mental Illness Awareness

Week with a day of prayer on Tuesday, October 4, 2017.

A resolution called the Dream Care Initiative was approved. The resolution lists The Susquehanna Conference of the United Methodist Church as an endorser of the Dream Care Campaign to expand Pennsylvania’s CHIP program to provide health care to all children. Mention Dream Care in appropriate communications.

After various debate discussions, this resolution was approved. The conference secretary will notify Public Citizens for Children and Youth of Philadelphia of the decision to endorse the campaign.

Conference Approves Resolutions

By Ed Preston

Rev. Mike Minnix began what will be his last report as Chair of Commission on Council on Finance and Administration by noting that the council has been working hard not to increase anticipated expenditures in 2017. This task was made more difficult when our General Church Shares of Ministry came in at a 5.3 percent increase. After discussions with GCFA, we were informed that our Shares of Ministry amount was being reduced by just over $36,000. This information was late in coming, so the revised final amount in the proposed CF&A budget would be $11 886,491. This leaves us at the level of having a .28 percent decrease in spending from 2016.

Once the report was placed before the Conference, a variety of amendments were proposed. A motion passed which increased the Board of Ordained Ministry administrative budget from the proposed $30,000 to $35,000. After extensive discussion, a motion passed which restored administrative funding for the United Methodist Stewardship Foundation at a $60,000 level. The foundation’s previous funding had been $70,000.

One motion regarded budgeting $30,000 as a gift to Mission Central toward the Capital Campaign. After extensive debate, the motion failed.

A question was raised regarding CF&A’s progress in re-examining the formula for Shares of Ministry. Rev. Minnix shared that due to the time needed to find a new treasurer in the wake of Gary Smith’s retirement, as well as some other staff, had indeed slowed that process but that it is currently underway.

Concerns were raised about the policy of a 25 percent Shares of Ministry increase

assessed on churches that don’t submit their statistical reports. Conference Treasurer Andra Haverstock reassured the body that she has worked, and will work, with churches which for various reasons have been unable to have their statistical reports done on time.

Discussion on a motion regarding Ministry Shares straddled our lunch break. A motion was made to raise the cap on Shares of Ministry increases/decreases from 20 percent to 35 percent. After extensive debate, the motion failed.

In a celebration moment, Steve Drachler presented the bishop with a banner lifting up our commitment to supporting Africa University with 100 percent payment of that line in our General Church askings. Africa University now has 4,000 graduates, most of whom have remained in their country to help lead the continent into the future.

A resolution to formally relate the Conference Loan Fund amenable to the Commission on Finance and Administration was approved.

Minnix shared the journey CF&A embarked on to replace Gary Smith in his decision to retire. A variety of candidates were interviewed, but the one who emerged from the group was Andra Haverstock. Her professionalism, leadership, ability to innovate, and love for God and God’s church made her CF&A’s selection for the position of conference treasurer.

A plaque recognizing the SUSUMC’s accomplishment in paying General Church Shares was presented to Bishop Jeremiah Park. The bishop then took a few moments to recognize Minnix’s service as chair of CF&A for more than a decade as he completed his last report to the Annual Conference.

Report of the Council on Finance and Administration

PHOTO BY SANDII PEIFFERBi

Bishop Jeremiah Park celebrates Susquehanna Conference paying 100 percent of our 2015 General Church Shares of Ministry.



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CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE

Ooh Nay Thla Nah

Cindy Kent, chairperson of the Northeastern Jurisdictional Committee on Native American Ministries, shared a brief message with us. She reminded us that repentance means turning away, and read 2 Corinthians 7:9-13. Paul writes in that passage that he rejoices not that we were made sorrowful, but that we were made sorrowful to the point of repentance. Ms. Kent said that we struggle when we repent. We examine what went wrong and contemplate how to fix it. Figuring that out requires doing what her grandmother taught her, and that is listening to each other, and listening builds respect. Listening will correct the misconceptions that still surround Native Peoples, and we will discover or rediscover that we are all much the same. The challenges that the Native Peoples struggle to overcome are not just Native issues. They are human issues. We must work together to solve them. We all have the same God. We need to clear a path for His presence.With drums playing in the background, we

prayed a confession of a broken circle of love and asked for forgiveness for our sins of exclusion and discourse. As a symbol of our turning away we tied a grey ribbon on each other’s wrist to remind us and others that never again will we stand by when we witness oppression and exclusion.Bishop Jeremiah Park expressed his gratitude for the work of this committee. He said that the service is not the end but a beginning of the healing. It’s difficult to deal with our personal sins let alone the collective sins of our history. The church has denied Native Peoples their own history. But we must reconcile with our past and identify where we are still lacking. Repentance is more than guilt and shame. It’s moving toward living hope and a better way. Bishop Park celebrated the gifts and graces of Native Peoples.The service closed with the hymn “This Is a Day of New Beginnings.” The last verse seems to sum up the goal of the service: “Christ is alive and goes before us to show and share what love can do.”

and resurrection, his disciples went out to share their stories of how Jesus changed their lives.

Castillo shared the story of the Prodigal Son without speaking a word. Using his unique “sandstory” he painted images of the parable in sand projected on the two screens in the assembly hall. Powerful depictions changed with the artistic motion of his hand, bringing to life the drama and resolution of the son and his father. Castillo explained that this is a visual generation, and a generation that is drawn to the gospel in artistic and sensory ways. “We need

to capture the eye as well as the ear in worship,” he said. Castillo also indicated that he is lucky to live close to Pinewood Studios in Atlanta, Georgia, a visual company started by a United Methodist pastor, which promotes family/church friendly values. Concluding, he shared an inspiring depiction of the trial, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus the Christ.

Following Castillo’s stunning presentation, the Passing of the Stoles and the examination of ordination candidates occurred. The evening ended in prayer and a hymn of celebration.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE

Celebration of Ministry



Man on a mission with a

passion for the master


Jacob Cogman

By Brenda Leigey

Rev. Mark Reisinger, Chair of our Mission and Outreach Team, introduced Jacob Cogman, representative for the Black College Fund. Cogman is the son of Billy and Johnsie Cogman. He is a certified lay servant in the United Methodist Church.

Cogman is a 2016 graduate of Claflin University, a Liberal Arts University in Orangeburg, South Carolina, which is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Cogman earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Politics and Justice Studies and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Philosophy and Religion. He graduated Summa Cum Laude, and was the only male to graduate with a perfect GPA of 4.0.

While at Claflin University, Cogman held various leadership positions including President of Pre-Law Society and Chaplain of the Pre-Alumni Council.

In the fall of 2016 Cogman will be enrolling at Candler School of Theology at Emory University to begin his studies for a Masters of Divinity.

Cogman greeted the Susquehanna Conference on behalf Cynthia Bond Hopson, General Secretary of the Black College Fund, and Dr. Henry N. Tisdale, president of Claflin University.

Claflin University is an institution of higher education affiliated with the United Methodist Church. An historically black university founded in 1869, it is the oldest black college in South Carolina, and was named in honor of Lee Claflin, a prominent Methodist layman and missionary, and his son William Claflin, then governor of Massachusetts. Claflin University offered for the first time in South Carolina, quality higher education for men and women regardless of race, complexion, or religious opinion.

The university is committed to providing students with access to exemplary educational opportunities in its undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education programs. The university seeks to nurture and develop the skills and character needed for visionary and effective leadership.

Cogman believes that he was given a passport to the world because of the education he received at Claflin University.

He encouraged the Susquehanna Annual Conference to continue its support of the Black College Fund, which supports eleven related institutions of the United Methodist Church, aiding future students who will be able to give back as a surgeon, a lawyer, or even a minister. Cogman was blessed to be the recipient of a four-year academic scholarship which allowed him to graduate debt free.

Sharing the parable of the sower and the soils from the Gospel of Mark 4:1-20, Cogman described how the nurturing of the soil and the spreading of the seeds on all types of soils, is an example of how the Black College Fund helps students with their education and future. Cogman explained that as the Annual Conference we are the sower of the seed; the seed is the Word of God and the soil is the eleven institutions. Giving to the Black College Fund enables us to be the hands of God sowing the Word of God and making an impact on passionate students like Cogman, preparing students for their purpose, raising up a new generation of disciples, a new generation of thinkers, a new generation that will transform the world.

In closing, Cogman again thanked the Annual Conference for their support of the Black College Fund, and being filled with a heart of thankfulness, he led the singing of “How Great is Our God.”

By Ryan Krauss

Within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, nearly 700,000 children live on the margins with little to no chance to succeed. The twenty-year-old Commission on Child Advocacy bears the calling of researching and educating the Annual Conference and local churches of the welfare of the children in our communities. While many of our church interactions with children is through Sunday schools youth groups, and VBS, Rev. Dr. Ed Zeiders reminded the Susquehanna Conference that many, many more children live on the disadvantaged margins.

Dr. Zeiders was pleased to report that over 1,000 copies of the commission’s interim report have been disseminated. He also spoke candidly of his own experiences in child abuse. “I’m grateful,” he said “for the church who sought my well-being.”

The challenge to the commission and the conference is real. According to 2015 data, as many as 30 percent of third graders in some Pennsylvania counties are unable to read. Furthermore, in other counties and districts, up to 30 percent of eighth graders

Step in and step up for children

Rev. Dr. Ed ZeidersPHOTO BY SANDII PEIFFER

cannot process simple math. In light of these challenges, Zeiders expressed gratitude to the “Love a Child Fund,” a fund designated for supporting new child-related missions in small-membership congregations. Further gratitude was extended to the Conference for the ways in which we “are so much more” when we are together.

“The demographics are real; the children are out there,” says Zeiders. Now is the time for the church to step in and step up. “All of you have children’s ministries waiting to be born.”

By Ed Preston

“Bishop Park, members of the Annual Conference, and honored guests, I want to thank all of you for the trust you have placed with the Stewardship Foundation.” With these words, Rev. Phyllis Bowers presented the report of the United Methodist Stewardship Foundation. Introducing several representatives and partners in the UMSF who were with her, she turned the podium over to Rev. Nick Keeney, Finance Chair and Assistant Treasurer. Rev. Keeney shared a report on behalf of Mr. Kirby Hickey, outgoing president of the UMSF Board of Directors.

Keeney first thanked the body for the restoration of funding for UMSF in the conference budget. Expressing regret that the UMSF is not yet fully self-supporting, he pledged to the body that the Board would indeed be moving the UMSF in that direction. He also shared regret that there had needed to be a motion to have UMSF get into constructive conversation with CF&A, and promised that such conversations would be made a reality.

Keeney introduced the incoming president of the Stewardship Foundation, Mrs. Stephanie Kingston-Green. He asks that the Conference members lift her up in

prayerful support as she begins her term.Noting that the UMSF serves over

870 churches, Keeney affirmed the long relationship the foundation has with the Annual Conference. He promised that the foundation would continue to provide “the best stewardship programs in the country” as well as socially responsible investments. He mentioned that fees that are charged are used to assist all the churches in the conference, not just those who invest with the UMSF. “We are the church supporting the church to provide resources for your stewardship needs.” Educational seminars are conducted at no cost or obligation to the church, conducting over 100 of these for local churches. The cost of these seminars is partially covered by Shares of Ministry. Four conference-wide educational events featuring national leaders were offered, covering clergy taxes, spiritual enrichment, stewardship and social media, and communications.

“We are determined to continue our connectional commitments to be of the greatest possible usefulness to Christ and his church,” said Rev Keeney, “continuing our long-standing commitment to stewardship education and discipleship, building effective networks and partnerships as we share our work with you.”

Stewardship Foundation Report


Rev. Phyllis Bowers presented the report of the United Methodist Stewardship Foundation.

PHOTOS BY SANDII PEIFFER


Check us out on our Social Media NetworkCamp Penn

Greene Hills

2016

Mount Asbury

Experience One Amazing Summer�

Register online: www.susumcamps.org

Wesley Forest

Facebook: facebook.com/SUSUMC and Twitter: twitter.com/SUSCONF

By Richard DeMarte

Doug Haverstock, Chairman, and Anne Horton, Camp Director, reported that in 2015 over 1,440 individuals were involved in camping in our conference.

They also reported 72 new commitments to Christ and over 600 Christian renewal pledges were made. Camperships were awarded to approximately 110 campers with a total of approx. $18,000 utilized.

The four conference campsites were highlighted, and Anne Horton invited Conference members to Camp Penn on Saturday, August 13, for a celebration of

seventy years of camper ministries. The all day event will begin at 10 a.m. and at end 4p.m.

Their report also noted that Wesley Forest has added a new “Rock, Raft, and Roll” program. Mount Asbury has added five Eno Hammocks, and Greene Hills is working on five new RV sites. Day Apart programs were also highlighted as day and overnight retreat opportunities.

The Conference was also urged to promote camping in their local churches by inviting children to camp, and encouraging financial support of camping ministries.

Camp & Retreat Ministries Board


Anne Horton, Director of Camp and Retreat Ministries, invited Conference members to celebrate 70 years of ministry at Camp Penn.

By Richard DeMarte

As the members of the Young Peoples’ Ministry Council took the stage, the energy of the Annual Conference rose noticeably. Bearing colored poster board signs, the young persons declared diverse statements of identity: “I am a leader,” “I am worthless,” “I am unique,” “I am a Christian” were just some of the phrases. Honoring a context of such diversity, representatives stated “the Young People’s Ministry Council is on a mission to equip student leaders … leaders who are capable of leading other students out of their comfort zones.”

Members of YPMC stated that the theme for this year’s youth rallies would be #TheStruggleIsReal. By this, they hope to address the myriad struggles in home, school, and community that young people face. It was further reported to the

Conference that YPMC would send three youth representatives to Jurisdictional Conference and Convocation.

As a word of encouragement, YPMC emphasized the Youth Service Fund, a fund designated to raise money for mission work on behalf of young people.

With gratitude, YPMC representatives commended the churches who hosted youth rallies; the youth were particularly blown away by the snacks! Moreover, YPMC advocated several ways to support the community of young persons in their churches. First, have adults take an active interest in the lives of young people. Second, support vital youth groups. Third, encourage meaningful participation in church-wide initiatives.

As a final encouragement, YPMC reminded the Conference that he church should be a safe place for everyone to be included. “Be like Jesus. Love First!”

Be like Jesus: love first


Members of the Young People’s Ministry Council present their report to the Annual Conference.


TESTIMONY OF A CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY

Giving has been a defining part of life for Dr. Bob Terry, Professor Emeritus of York College, for he believes faith and giving go “hand-in-hand.”

His focus on the poor came from his short time out west. “I worked at the McCurdy Mission School in New Mexico for a year. I have had the opportunity to weave that into fundraising.”

“A person gives because you always get back more than you give.” His giving through the Stewardship Foundation has been a fruitful partnership. “You invest in them and they invest in other things and people…it’s a radiating field that goes out.” He has chosen to invest in the Stewardship Foundation through gift annuities, calling them a “hidden treasure most people don’t know about yet.” The rest of his testimony can be found at www.umstewardship.org/testimonials or in the 2015 Annual Report.

For rates and more information about Charitable Gift Annuities, contact

The United Methodist Stewardship FoundationServing the Susquehanna Conference

303 Mulberry Drive, Suite 300, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050-3141717-766-7343; 717-766-1673 fax; 800-272-0113; [email protected]

www.umstewardship.org

The Reverend Phyllis M. Bowers, Executive Director


By Bethany Wood

This report began with the words of Acts 1:8 calling the church to be witnesses even to the ends of the earth. A video outlining the theme of the brochure, “At the Threshold: Moving Forward, New People, and New Places,” which was made available to each member of the gathering was shared.

Doors make an impression the first time we encounter them. They can be welcoming or unwelcoming. They can be doorways to the communities we live in or barriers to unintentionally keep people out. Are we intentional in opening those doorways or are we hindered by rusty hinges that make it impossible to push through to our communities of faith? Are we ready to open doors and move forward?

Rev. Kathleen Kind invited the assembly to go on a mental journey. Imagine the door of your church. Imagine taking the handle and trying to open it. Is it locked? Is there a need to find an alternate entrance to the church, other than the main one? Now, open that door and cross the threshold. Sadly, people don’t pass through our doors in the same numbers that they once did.

We do stand on the threshold and it is time to step forward. Rev. Dennis Otto helped us to take a look at how that threshold is being crossed across the conference.

First, he introduced the Conference to a video detailing the Acts Network at First, Williamsport. Mitch Marcello shared the work of the numerous small group ministries and outreach of that congregation. He illustrated how the staff team-talk to leaders about being disciples. They talk about being a community. They talk about being missionaries. They intentionally create spaces that non-believers are willing to come to. One of the doorways to this community of faith is through a gym door where basketball, weight lifting, and other sports are combined with Bible study.

Second, Otto introduced Mack Granderson and Manny Valentin who spoke of the ministries at Derry Street United Methodist Church, an area high in crime and low in education. Derry

Street has become a multi-cultural faith presence, a mini-United Nations for that community. There is a 10 a.m. traditional service, an 11:30 Spanish service, and a 1 p.m. contemporary service; and that congregation is on fire. Granderson and Valentin asserted that the congregation reaches a wide variety of cultures; people who have a deep need for God. Some of these people don’t know it’s God that’s missing, but they feel a void. The church at-large needs to become less insular and more forward-looking. It is not always easy. Although Satan is the number one obstacle, love is the key. They asked that we love everyone from professionals to addicts, and everyone in between.

Third, Rev. Jennifer Williams spoke in a video sharing the story of CrossPoint’s Perking Point. She spoke of how the informal coffee house helps lead individuals to Christ. She indicated that when groups are lead to pray, they pray with their backs to each other, facing out to the community.

Rev. Mike Bealla, Director of Connectional Ministries, took the stage to speak about how creating new places for new people can happen in a variety of ways. We need to rethink how we do church, for 60 percent of our communities are unchurched. The mission field is just outside our doors.

Are you ready to open the door? All that is required is to take the first step.

Rev. Dr. Thomas Salsgiver drew the assembly’s attention to the “At the Threshold” flyer, outlining opportunities for training, consultation, tools to strengthen existing churches, and Fresh Expressions US partnerships.

Concluding the report, John Hodges Batzka was introduced by Rev. Beth Jones, who brought greetings from Discipleship Ministries Interim General Secretary Mary Jane Pierce Norton. Batzka presented the “One Matters” discipleship award to the Southern Potter County Charge. This award recognizes a move from no professions of faith or baptisms to one, two, or even more. This charge and its pastor have exemplified the spirit and energy of this award.

Leadership Report


Rev. Dr. Dennis Otto introduces Mack Granderson and Manny Valentin, who spoke of the ministries at Derry Street United Methodist Church.


John Hodges Batzka was introduced by Rev. Beth Jones, presented the “One Matters” discipleship award to the Southern Potter County Charge.


CONFERENCE CENTERPHONE NUMBERS

AREA CODE (717) NUMBERCONNECTIONAL MINISTRIES 766-7441 Toll Free 800-874-8474 Fax 766-5976FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION 766-5275 Toll Free 866-227-6529 Fax 766-5976EPISCOPAL OFFICE 766-7871 Fax 766-3210DISCOVERY PLACE 766-7968 Toll Free 800-682-2615 Fax 766-5976HARRISBURG DISTRICT 766-8124 Toll Free 800-317-7745 Fax 766-3887GROWING EFFECTIVE CHURCHES 545-0525STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION 766-7343 766-4383 Toll Free 800-272-0113 P. Bowers 766-5376 P. Bowers Toll Free 877-619-5974 Fax 766-1673MISSION CENTRAL 766-1533 Fax 796-9582

PHONE EXTENSIONSNAME EXTENSION

EPISCOPAL OFFICES Christy Mackey 3100 Bishop Jeremiah Park 3100 Greg Myers 3103 Kristin Sample 3104INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Nate Smith 3107 Larry McCleaf 3106GROWING EFFECTIVE CHURCHES Peggy Spengler 3111 Dennis Otto 3112HARRISBURG DISTRICT Candi Shaffer 3200 Karen Atanasoff 3201 Barry Robison 3202STEWARDSHIP FOUNDATION Terri Cartwright 3300 Dolly Marzullo 3301 Bonnie Young 3305 Phyllis Bowers 3307DISCOVERY PLACE Jody Robinson 3400FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION Jane Rosborough 3500 Ann Watts 3501 Kim Butler 3502 Andra Haverstock 3503 Sue Adams 3504 Kelly Cox 3401CONNECTIONAL MINISTRIES Amy Wynn 3000 Curt Knouse 3402 Lisa Bender 3600 Mike Bealla 3601 Patricia Frye 3602 Anne Horton 3603 Audrey Wilder 3604 Jerry Wolgemuth 3607 Sharon Keebaugh 3608 Stacy Eckert 3609 Ashley Brooks 3613Staff e-mail addresses at www.susumc.org

Volume 7 Number 3Susquehanna Daily LINK

is published during Annual Conference by Connectional Ministries,

Susquehanna Conference, The United Methodist Church,

303 Mulberry Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 Phone 800-874-8474 (toll-free)

or e-mail [email protected]

Bishop Jeremiah J. Park Director of Connectional Ministries Mike BeallaDirector of Communications Jerry Wolgemuth Daily LINK Editor Skip Spangler Graphic Designer/Webmaster Stacy EckertOperations Manager Sharon Keebaugh Writers Richard DeMarte

Brenda LeigeyRyan Krauss

Ed PrestonMorgan Robinette

Deb SteranskyBethany Wood

Photographer Sandii Peiffer Printed by Susquehanna Printing

To learn more or schedule a personal tour, visit RiverWoods.org and NormandieRidge.org

Normandie Ridge and RiverWoods are proudly affi liated in faith with Th e United Methodist Church.

At RiverWoods Senior Living Community in Lewisburg and Normandie Ridge Senior Living Community in York, you’ll fi nd numerous ways to continue your mission of service including:

• Companions for the Journey (end of life companionship)• On-campus church services & Bible studies• Retired Clergy & Spouses Breakfasts• Days of service at Mission Central• Volunteer Opportunities• Spiritual Retreats• Meals on Wheels• Auxiliaries

at riverwoods and normandie ridge

continue your

Bible Studies and Worship Services provide spiritual fulfillment and fellowship.


By Richard DeMarte

The afternoon corporate session reported that Hickory Run Church and Harris Street Church were added to a list of discontinued and abandoned churches. It presented a resolution to discontinue Forest Emmanuel Church in the State College District on June 30, 2016. The resolution was approved.

Rev. Ed Zeiders celebrated the importance and impact of Harris Street Church in its community’s life and the history of our connection.

Rev. David Biser then announced that CrossPoint Church will work to create an urban campus in the former Harris Street Church.

Elected to the Board of Trustees by the Annual Conference were Rachel Horst, Laura Minnella, Mark Shover, Richard Felty, Margaret Daub, and Suzette Meyer.

The Property and Casualty Report was accepted with the urging that all churches work diligently to resolve safety issues identified in risk inspections.

Board of Trustees Report

Rev. Richard FeltyPHOTO BY SANDII PEIFFER


12 Susquehanna Daily LINK - June 11, 2016


VIDEO RESOURCESA Celebration of our Shares of Ministry

COMMUNICATIONS

information and downloadable resources at

susumc.org/BetterTogether

Better Together

Better Together

Whatever we find to do we’re

whywhathow

who

This video series is organized around the pamphlet of the same name, written by Mike Bealla, that has been distributed throughout the annual conference. All of the

resources for Better Together can be downloaded at susumc.org/bettertogether.

Level 1 - Branding Video - the “why”Multi-generational laity voices give clarity to

who we are, what we value, and why our world should care.

Level 2 - Mission and Ministry - the “what” and “how”

Susquehanna Conference leaders explore Ministries supported by Shares of Ministry, Congregational Resourcing, Connectional Support, and Leadership Development.

Level 3 - The Stories - the “who”Voices of some of the benefactors of Shares of Ministry including Campus Ministry, Tuition

Support, Spiritual Recovery, Camping Ministry, Parish Nurse Ministry, and more.

Susquehanna Conference of the United Methodist Church


amazing grace – ooh nay thla nah

Documents