2019 Pre-Conference Journal

MISSISSIPPI ANNUAL CONFERENCE of The United Methodist Church

2019 Annual Conference Session The

POWERthat makes us One John 17:20-23 LOVE | GENEROSITY | JUSTICE | APPRENTICESHIP

2019 Pre-Conference Journal

June 5-8, 2019 Jackson Convention Complex

2019 Journal Mississippi Conference of The United Methodist Church Uniting The Mississippi Conference (1972) and The North Mississippi Conference (1973)

Thirtieth Session

held in Jackson, Mississippi at Jackson Convention Complex June 5 - June 8, 2019

Journal Editor — Leslie Bounds Conference Secretary — Trey Harper Assistant Conference Secretary — Angela Griffin Statistician — Rex Wilburn

All photos courtesy of the Mississippi United Methodist Communications

Table of Contents Welcome Letter from Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr...... 5 Welcome Letter from Rev. Andy Stoddard and Dr. Dorothy Terry, Annual Conference Chairs...... 6 Welcome Letter from Rev. Trey Harper, Annual Conference Secretary...... 7 “And We Are Yet Alive”...... 8 Section I - Leadership A. Conference Nominations Committee...... 9 B. Annual Conference Officers...... 9 C. Conference Leadership Council...... 10 D. Annual Conference Leadership Groups...... 12 E. District Boards and Committees...... 16 F. Tellers...... 26 Section II - Business of the Annual Conference (Section will be added after 2019 AC Session) Section III - Administry A. Council on Finance and Administration...... 29 B. 2020 Budget Requests...... 41 C. Board of Trustees...... 51. D. Board of Pensions...... 53. E. Board of Medical Benefits...... 60. F. Commission on Archives and History...... 67 Section IV - Connectional Ministry Updates...... 69 Section V - Spiritual Leadership A. Conference Lay Leader Report...... 91. B. Commission on Equitable Compensation...... 92 C. Higher Education and Campus Ministry...... 96. D. Residency in Ministry...... 99 E. Board of Ordained Ministry...... 100 F. Center for Ministry...... 101 Section VI - Faith Community Formation...... 103 Section VII - Episcopal Office A. Episcopacy Committee...... 105 B. Advocacy Reports...... 106 Section VIII - Other Reports...... 109 Section IX - History (Section will be added after 2019 AC Session) Section X - The 2019 Session of the Mississippi Annual Conference A. Speakers...... 119 Section XI - Resolutions and Petitions A. Regular...... 123 B. Property and Changes in Charge Lines...... 132 Section XII - Conference Directory and Rolls (Section will be added after 2019 AC Session) Section XIII - Rules and Policies A. Standing Rules of The Mississippi Annual Conference...... 141 B. Mississippi Conference Clergy Behavioral Policy...... 150 Section XIII - Rules and Policies, continued C. Parsonage Guidelines...... 152 D. Clergy Vacation and Days Off Policy...... 156 E. Safe Sanctuaries Policy...... 157 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 5

The United Methodist Church Mississippi Area + Episcopal Office James E. Swanson Sr., Resident Bishop

Welcome to Annual Conference 2019!

If this is your first time attending Annual Conference please know you are in for a wonderful time of worship, decision making about the budgetary needs for mission and ministry of the Mississippi Annual Conference, sharing of glory sightings, God’s movement among us, opportunities to be actively involved in missions work, fellowship and developing new friends. This year’s theme is “The POWER that makes us One.” We will celebrate our annual coming together with opening worship and the sharing of the Holy Eucharist together. You will witness the class of 2019 new ordinands, associate pastors and the local pastors receiving their licenses. I personally want to welcome Dr. Jessica Moffatt to the Mississippi Annual Conference. She will be our preacher for opening worship and our service of ordination. Dr. Claire Sterk, President of Emory University, will be the speaker for the Laity Luncheon. Rev. Dr. Embra Jackson will be the preacher for the Service of Remembrance. We will be electing General and Jurisdictional Delegates to the 2020 General and Jurisdictional Conferences, as well. I look forward to seeing y’all there. Blessings, Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr. Resident Bishop, The Mississippi Conference of The United Methodist Church 6 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Greetings from Rev. Andy Stoddard, Annual Conference Chair

Greetings in the Name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, It’s time once again for the People Known as Methodists to once again gather together for our Annual Conference. What a joy it is for us to once again come together in Jackson for worship, for service, for the ordering of our life together, and most of all give glory to our Triune God of Grace for the great things that have happened since we have gather last. I know we’ve done it from the very beginning, but I think of the word that we sing in a matter of weeks, And Are We Yet Alive? Verses three and four especially resonate with me: What troubles have we seen, what mighty conflicts past, fightings without, and fears within, since we assembled last! Yet out of all the Lord hath brought us by his love; and still he doth his help afford, and hides our life above. This past year has not been perfect. There has been pain within our greater connection, our local connection, and within our local bodies. But even in the midst of the pain, the “fightings without, and fears within” God remains good. God remains Lord and Jesus Christ remains the hope for the word. It is under the shadow of the cross we come together, and it is in the hope of the resurrection that give us our strength. We come together this year with The POWER that Make Us One. This power is not our power, but is the power of Almighty God. Alone, we are not one. We all know that. But alone, we cannot become one. We can only become one through that divine, supernatural power. We can only become by and through the power of the Holy Spirit. That is my prayer for this session of the Mississippi Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church: that we are one, through that Power. But the grace of the Lord, may it be so! Peace of Christ, Rev. Andrew “Andy” Stoddard Chair, Annual Conference Planning Team 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 7

Welcome Letter from Rev. Trey Harper, Conference Secretary

Dear Lay and Clergy Members of the 2019 Session of the Mississippi Annual Conference, Greetings and on behalf of your Secretarial and Journal staff, we welcome you as we begin this time of prayerful preparation for our gathering at the Jackson Convention Complex, June 5th -8th . This year’s gathering of our Family of Faith will truly bring Glory to God as we celebrate that we are better together with the POWER That Makes Us ONE. In a world that seems increasingly polarized, what a powerful witness of the Gospel to say while we don’t always agree, we always love, because that is what families do. As usual, upon arrival in the WEST ENTRANCE LOBBY go to your DISTRICT TABLE, check-in and receive your badge and any additional information. Registration will be open on WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5th from 10AM until 5PM (will be closed for Opening Worship); THURSDAY, JUNE 6th from 7AM until 5PM and FRIDAY, JUNE 7th from 7AM until 10:30AM with the start of the Memorial Service. Please note that all GUESTS OF THE ANNUAL CONFERENCE (those attending who are not lay or clergy members) will need to check-in at the Hospitality Desk to receive a name tag and any additional information they may require. And when you check-in, offer a special thanks to your District Secretary. They deserve it! As in year’s past, we will be using a THREE-COLOR BADGE CODE for our voting members. All LAY MEMBERS of the Annual Conference will receive the traditional GREEN badges. All CLERGY IN FULL CONNECTION will receive BLUE badges. Additional CLERGY who are eligible to vote for the delegations will receive RED badges, and all remaining clergy with other voting rights will receive BROWN. If there is any question about your badge color, our staff will do our best to assist you. Please know that in spite of our best efforts mistakes may happen. With your patience and participation, we will do our best to correct these. Should it become necessary for any member (Clergy or Laity) to leave the Conference, we ask that you return your badge to the Conference Secretary’s desk or to the District Tables. Any reserve or alternate laity may pick up proper voting credentials at those locations. In order to VOTE on the business of the Annual Conference, all eligible members must be seated within the BAR OF THE CONFERENCE and be wearing their PROPER IDENTIFICATON (badges). The BAR will be set at the opening of the Business Session. We will also try to remind you throughout the sessions as needed for voting. The BAR will be roped for voting members only during the Election of our 2020 Delegations. During these days of worship and meeting, it is my prayer that we will reflect not only upon the calling and need to be One Body, but also will pledge ourselves anew to seeking God’s Spirit to overcome our difference and unite our hearts, as together we seek to glorify and serve. I look forward to seeing you in June. Blessings, Rev. Trey Harper Secretary of the Annual Conference 8 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 9

Section I

Leadership A. Conference Nominations Committee (* Indicates change from last year) District Laity Clergy Brookhaven Ora Franklin-Rodgers Mike Evans East Jackson Darelene Dotherow Vicki Landrum Greenwood John McClay Will Wilkerson* Hattiesburg Dwight Yates Paul Roller Meridian Sarah King John Branning New Albany Cheri Hobson Kerry Powell* Seashore Vera Thomas* Stacy Douglas* Senatobia Cheryl Denley David Huffman Starkville Sarah Sanders Curtis Bray* Tupelo Anne Harrington David Shumaker* West Jackson Kay Barksdale* Robert Cook

B. Annual Conference Officers Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr. [email protected] 320-E Briarwood Drive, Jackson, MS 39206 (601) 948-4561 Conference Lay Leader LaToya Redd Thompson [email protected] 736 Monterey Road Pearl, MS 39028 (601) 842-8834 Administrative Assistant to the Bishop/Director of Faith Community Formation Timothy Thompson [email protected] 320-E Briarwood Drive, Jackson, MS 39206 (601) 948-4561 Director of Connectional Ministries & Communications Vickie White [email protected] 320-C Briarwood Drive, Jackson, MS 39206 (601) 354-0515 Treasurer/Director of Finance & Administration/Conference Benefits Officer David Stotts [email protected] 320-A Briarwood Drive, Jackson, MS 39206 (601) 354-0515 Director of Spiritual Leadership/Conference Secretary Trey Harper [email protected] 320-D Briarwood Drive, Jackson, MS 39206 (769) 243-7030 Minutes Secretary Andrew Owen [email protected] Journal Editor Leslie Bounds [email protected] 4001 Glenn Wycke Cove, Brandon, MS 39042 (601) 573-8500 10 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Statistician Rex Wilburn [email protected] 106 Hillcrest Drive, Houston, MS 38851 (662) 983-0574 Auditor Horne CPA Group, Jackson Chancellor Clifford B. Ammons Conference Coordinator for Lay Servant Ministries Cornelius Mozee 110 Harvey Circle, Brandon, MS 39042 (601) 825-5048 United Methodist Men, President Kenyatta Walker [email protected] 5124 24th Place, Apt. T-6, Meridian, MS 39305 (601) 692-8082 United Methodist Women, President Dorothy Carter [email protected] 1113 108th Street, Amory, MS 38821 (662) 256-5857 Methodist Foundation, Executive Director Mike Hicks [email protected] P.O. Box 2415, Ridgeland, MS 39158 (601) 948-8845 C. Conference Leadership Council District Abbreviations BRO - Brookhaven MER - Meridian STA - Starkville EJA - East Jackson NAL - New Albany TUP - Tupelo GWD - Greenwood SEA - Seashore WJA - West Jackson HAT - Hattiesburg SEN - Senatobia

1. District Superintendents BRO Lindsey Robinson, P.O. Box 629, Brookhaven, MS 39602 (601) 833-1619 [email protected] EJA Connie Shelton, 860 E. River Place, Ste. 101, Jackson, MS 39202 (601) 944-0776 [email protected] GWD Steven “Rusty” Keen, 107 Grand Boulevard, Greenwood, MS 38930 (662) 453-0878 [email protected] HAT Cynthia Cross, P.O. Box 2057, Hattiesburg, MS 39403 (601) 264-9181 [email protected] MER Dayna Goff, 6210 Highway 39 North, Meridian, MS 39305 (601) 483-6221 [email protected] NAL Raigan Miskelly, P.O. Box 686, New Albany, MS 38652 (662) 534-7733 [email protected] SEA Larry Hilliard, P.O. Box 840, Gulfport, MS 39502 (228) 284-4199 [email protected] SEN Ricky Haynes, P.O. Box 220, Senatobia, MS 38668 (662) 562-5865 [email protected] 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 11

STA Paulette Buford-James, P.O. Box 1329, Starkville, MS 39560 (662) 323-0198 [email protected] TUP Fred Britton, P.O. Box 3957, Tupelo, MS 38803 (662) 842-8477 [email protected] WJA Stephen Cook, 3810 Robinson St., Jackson, MS 39209 (601) 944-0776 [email protected]

2. District Lay Leaders BRO Ora Franklin-Rodgers, P.O. Box 17414, Hattiesburg, MS 39404 (601) 408-2080 [email protected] EJA Darlene Dotherow, 169 Pine Hill Drive, Brandon, MS 39047 (601) 825-6118 [email protected] GWD John McClay, 2317 Short Street, Greenville, MS 38703 (662) 335-2942 [email protected] HAT Dwight Yates, 1185 Bolton Loop Rd., Beaumont, MS 39423 (601) 784-2252 [email protected] MER Andrew Richardson, 2373 CR 20, Rose Hill, MS 39356 (601) 692-8288 [email protected] NAL Buddy Wiltshire, 15 Wood Dr, Belmont, MS 38827 (662) 454-8835 [email protected] SEA Vera Thomas, 13232 Dedeaux Rd., Gulfport, MS 39503 (228) 831-1497 [email protected] SEN Cristen Barnard, 25 Oakley CV, Senatobia, MS 38668 (662) 609-1246 [email protected] STA Hal Smith, 1012 2nd Ave. N, Columbus MS 39701 (662) 327-7276 [email protected] TUP Eugene Conwill, 93 Dozier Road, Nettleton, MS 38858 (662) 963-2898 [email protected] WJA Denise DeRossette,101 Merlot Cove, Clinton, MS 39056 (601) 925-9235 [email protected] Oliver Ellis, District Associate Lay Leader; 278 Azalea CT, Brandon, MS 39047 (601) 291-9717 [email protected] 12 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

D. Annual Conference Leadership Groups (Annual Conference Boards, Committees, Commissions, Etc.) (* Indicates change from last year)

Administry Board of Trustees Chair* (To be elected by the Board of Trustees) LAITY: Carole Barham, Charlie Campbell, Bonnie Dillon, Maudine Eckford, Clarence Evans, Ed Jones, Ellen Short, Wayne Webb CLERGY: Tim Prather, Larry Maugh, Mitchell McDonald, Marjorie Walker Board of Pensions John Brian Jones, Chair (Laity) LAITY: Patricia Battle, Hazel Collier*, Tommy Dyson, Niler Franklin, Hazel Collier, John Brian Jones, H.V. Neal, Loyce Searight, Cheryl Webb, Dorothy Redd* CLERGY: Jerry Beam, Joe Landrum, John McKay, A.J Murray Board of Medical Benefits Grady Marlow, Chair (Laity) LAITY: Rita Anderson, Barbara Boome, Leslie Bounds, Jason McCoy, Bob Yates, Grady Marlow, Red Moffat, Sue Sullivan CLERGY: Curtis Bray, Beth Miller, David Shumaker Council on Finance and Administration Brent Wilson, Chair Pat McNulty, Audit and Review Chair LAITY: Donna Gilbert, Matt Gnemi*, Kiah Hitt, Dan Kibodeaux, Laura Kinney, Sharolyn Miller, Lee Murphy, Sherry Russum, Chuck Stringer, Shannon Turner CLERGY: David Cox, Jim Genesse, Mitchell Hedgepeth, Johniel Henry, Giles Lindley, Arthur Louis Johnson, Keith Keeton, Brenda McCaskill, Rochelle Minor, Tom Potter* Archives and History Conference Historian: Dr. Walter Howell LAITY: Vicki Espy, Buddy Hilliard, Matthew Henry, Missy Jones,Virginia Matthews, Vera Thomas, D.C. Yates CLERGY: Jimmy Barnes, Jerry Mitchell, Marcus Thompson, Rob Webb Ex Officio: Sam Price

Connectional Ministries and Communications Commission on Communication Kevin Carter, Chair (Clergy) LAITY: Jason Anding, Kay Barksdale, Chris Blount, Teresa Hope, Taylor Leddy, Yolanda Parris, Jimmy Spears, TJ Tate, Laura Walton* CLERGY: Cheryl Farr, Tony Proctor, Eugene Stockstill, Michael Williams Resolution and Petitions Stephen Sparks, Chair (Clergy) LAITY: LaToya Redd-Thompson, Bob Wadsworth CLERGY: Martha June Kirby, Joey Shelton Ex-Officio: Trey Harper, Conference Secretary 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 13

Standing Rules David Beckley, Chair (Lay) LAITY: Joyce Funchess, Earnestine Preston, Janice Tinsley CLERGY: Allen Dearing, Claire Dobbs Ex-Officio: Trey Harper, Conference Secretary Personnel Committee Zach Beasley, Chair (Clergy) LAITY: Kathy Bridge, Andrew Richardson CLERGY: Sandra Thomas Board of Global Ministries Sarah Jo Adams-Wilson, Chair (Clergy) LAITY: Anita Alef, Sherry Boyd, Jennifer Calhoun, Bettye Coggin, Pat Oakes, Don Pratt, Tim Ross, Bobby Thomas, Connie Walters CLERGY: Allen McGraw, Randy Russ, Clint Ware, Dennis Gossett*, Chuck Meador*, Amanda Gordon*, Trey Jones* Conference Secretary of Global Ministries Eric Sanford (Clergy) Health and Welfare Committee Marcus Gaut, Chair (Lay) Camping and Retreat Ministry Board Andy Stoddard, Chair (Clergy) United Methodist Committee on Relief Co-coordinators: Mellie Jordan (Laity) and Frank Newell (Clergy) Volunteer in Missions Wayne Jones, Chair (Lay) Vital Congregations Committee BRO: Grace BRO: Hazlehurst First UMC* EJA: Greer Chapel EJA: Morton First UMC* GWD: Grenada First UMC HAT: St. Paul UMC MER: Central SEA: Cedar Lake SEN: Asbury STA: Columbus First TUP: Union Grove WJA: Parkway Hills

Faith Community Formation Faith Community Formation Committee Steve Shirley, Chair (Laity) LAITY: Annie Cassidy*, Janet Langley*, Jerold Mitchell*, Steve Shirley, Kathleen Smith*, Ed Varner* CLERGY: DeMario Benson, Ben Butler, Brandon Halford*, Haywood Hanna, Susan Hood*, Martha June Kirby*, Trey Skaggs*, Jeff Trehem*, MarilynWatkins*, Rusty White* 14 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Spiritual Leadership Higher Education and Campus Ministry Kurt Appel, Chair (Clergy) LAITY: Charlie Estes, Jill Gilbert, Renelda Owens, Walter Roberts, Anne Warren, Cheryl Sparkman, Dora Washington, Debbie Heslep*, Fred Burford*, Kathy Marlow, Leslie Stawterman CLERGY: Chris Klingenfus, Trey Skaggs, Lance Presley, Cliff Burris*, Cathy Larsen*, Rob Grant* Community College Representative: Melinda Bowlin College/University Representative: Tara Hayes Equitable Compensation Mike Hicks, Chair (Clergy) LAITY: Edna Curtis, Jan Hitt, Hal Kittrell, John Reed CLERGY: Fitzgerald Lovett, Joe May, Rachel Pitts Board of Ordained Ministry Executive Committee Chair: Rev. Cary Stockett (2012-2020) Vice Chair: Rev. Maxine Bolden (2012-2020) Secretary: Rev. Steven Owens (2012-2020) Order of Deacons: Rev. Karie Sue McCaleb* Order of Elders: Rev. Maxine Bolden Fellowship of Associate Members and Local Pastors: Rev. Ricky Bishop (2016-2024) Director of Spiritual Leadership: Rev. Trey Harper (Ex-Officio) Conference Registrar: Dorothy Ellis (Ex-Officio) Associate Director of Ministerial Services: Rev. Pamela Cameron (Ex-Officio) Ex-Officio Board Members Director of the Center for Ministry: Rev. Paige Swaim-Presley Chair of Residency in Ministry: Rev. Anna Fleming-Jones Cabinet Representatives: Cynthia Cross, Paulette Buford-James Rolling off July 1, 2019 Todd Watson Sherry Johnson Bob Whiteside Jane Simmons Ever Jean Burt Allison Parvin 7/1/2012 - 7/1/2016 - 7/1/2020 Vicki Hughes-Johnson Cary Stockett Loye Ashton Cathy Stewart Linda Dixon* Amy Daniels Phil Sutphin Marty Wiseman Willie Williams Ernestine Varnado Robbie Murden David McCoy Steven Owens David Lowery Kevin Carter* Tommy Miller Lynn Mote Julie Collins Jimmy Criddle Roger Puhr 7/1/2013 - 7/1/2017 - 7/1/2021 Ricky James 7/1/2014 - 7/1/2018 - 7/1/2022 Scott Wright Darian Duckworth Bruce Case Gloria McKinney 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 15

7/1/2016 - 7/1/2020 - 7/1/2024 Albert Mosley Rachel Pitts Nancy Crews Ricky Bishop Todd Cross 7/1/2017 - 7/1/2021 - 7/1/2025 Amy Roller Smith Lilley* Walt Frazier 7/1/2018 - 7/1/2022 - 7/1/2026 Susannah Carr Chad Bowen Daniel Herring Johniel Henry Kristen Williams Mitch Cochran Terry Hilliard 7/1/2019 - 7/1/2023 - 7/1/2027* Nancy Chambers Chris Zirlott Vera Thomas Carl Griffin Cary Daniels Nicolet Bell Erin Hicks Chris McAlilly Linda Williams Gary Glazier Karie Sue McCaleb Ella Dedeaux Rochelle Minor John Evans Bobby McGill Joe May Conference Relations Committee: Walt Frazier, Chair Cathy Stewart, David Lowery, Steven Owens, Amy Roller, Smith Lilley Administrative Review Committee: Scott Larsen, Chair Principals: Ada Williams-Miller, Embra Jackson*, Eddie Lee Jones Alternates: Frank Newell*, Emily Sanford* Committee on Investigation Clergy: Stephen Sparks, Claire Dobbs, David Huffman, Joe Landrum* Laity: Joy Carr, Jean Reid Godwin, Jesse Ross Alternate Clergy: Bess Perrier, John Branning, Rickey Georgetown, Alternate Laity: Ben Witt, Vangela Wade, Dorothy Redd, Linda Norwood, York Craig, Taylor Cheeseman Residency in Ministry Council: Anna Fleming Jones, Chair Paige Swaim-Presley, CFM Will Dowling Reed McCaleb Dave Schultz Frank Newell Ella DeDeaux Emily Sanford

Episcopal Office Committee on Episcopacy Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr. , Resident Bishop LaToya Redd-Thompson, Lay Leader Beth Hartness, Episcopal Residence (Lay) Connie Shelton, Cabinet Representative (Clergy) Danny Rowland, Chair LAITY: Sondra Bell, Sandra Brown, Martin Butler, Tim Crisler, Chris Howdeshel, Aubrey Lucas, Lydia Smith-Roby, Sallie Whiteside CLERGY: Mattie Gipson, Ryan McGough, Emma Ward, Lindsey Robinson, Anna Fleming-Jones 16 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Advocacy Ministries Disabilities Group Eric Pridmore, Representative (Clergy) Commission On the Status and Role of Women Emily Sanford*, Representative (Clergy) Committee On Religion and Race Kathy Price, Representative (Clergy) Christian Unity and Inter-religious Concerns Warren Coile, Representative (Clergy) Committee on Church and Society Willis Britt, Representative (Clergy) E. District Boards and Committees Brookhaven District Tellers Clergy: Mark Jones Lay: Charles Campbell District Leadership (SLI) Team Mike Evans Bonnie Dillon Linda Fox Brandon Halford Greg Pittman Joe Landrum Ora Franklin Rogers Fitzgerald Lovett Susan Hood Lynn Mote Bonnie Dillon Joe Landrum District Committee on Ministry Gene Horton Lynn Mote Jim Porter, Chair Greg Pittman Bill Barksdale Mike Evans, Registrar Ernestine Varnado Bonnie Dillon Fitzgerald Lovett Chris Richardson Ora Franklin Rodgers Ed Youngblood Sara Lloyd Dr. Bo Gabbert District Committee on Superintendency Mike Sahler Mark Fite Michelle Parker Pat Smith Linda Fox Skip Atchison Brenda Cager Ora Franklin Rodgers District Trustees Charles Campbell, Chair Betsy Smith Ryan Freeman Johnny Crosby Faith Community Formation/Building and Location Charles Campbell Betsy Smith Ryan Freeman Johnny Crosby Mike Evans Fitzgerald Lovett Susan Allen, Chair Finance and Audit 2019 2020 2021 Charles Campbell Debra Stamps Dustin Bairfield (Chair) Bill Barksdale Rex Wilburn Lindsey Robinson Robert Hensarling Earnestine Varnado (Audit Only) 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 17

Board of Laity Donna Talerico Bonnie Dillon Kim Burkett Sarah Lloyd Gary Hurst Eric Benson Ora Franklin-Rodgers Martha Lightsey District Officers Leaders: Ora Franklin Rodgers UMM: Larry Moreton UMW: Jimmy Sartin Lay Servant Ministry: Susan Hood Disaster Relief: Carrie Neyland

East Jackson District District Officers Chancellor: York Craig Lay Leader: Darlene Dotherow Lay Servant: Melissa Godbold Treasurer: Sherry Russum Youth Coordinator: Cory Phillips Missions Coordinator: Lori Galambos Disaster Coordinator: Hugh Langley Older Adult Coordinator: Nora Roberts Servant Ministry Coordinator: Melissa Godbold UMW President: Peggy Peterson UMM President: Fred Shaw Youth President: Kathryn Scoggins Trustees 2019: Walter Collier 2020: Nancy Lockhart 2021: Bettye Ward Fletcher, Mitchell Hedgepeth Superintendency 2019: Barbara Taylor, Malcolm Harvey, Brian Gomillion 2020: Brenda Britt, AW Crump 2021: Darlene Dotherow, Sandra Rasberry, LaToya Redd Thompson, Warren Coile, Mike Hicks Finance 2019: Barbara Taylor, Malcolm Harvey, Brian Gomillion 2020: Brenda Britt, AW Crump 2021: Darlene Dotherow, Sandra Rasberry, LaToya Redd Thompson, Warren Coile, Mike Hicks Church Location and Building (Faith Community Formation) 2019: David Lowery, Melissa Godbold, Haywood Hannah 2020: Mitchell Hedgepeth, Andy Stoddard, EJ Shepard, Kurt Appel 2021: Gordon Herring, David Slaughter, Ben Butler DCOM 2019: Loye Ashton, Kevin Carter, Rita Anderson 2020: Dorothy Redd, Barry Male, Beth Miller 2021: Josh Gray, Warren Coile, Cathy Larsen, Sheila Cumbest, Dorothea Garrett, Willis Britt 18 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

District Committee on Lay Servant Ministries Melissa Godbold (Lay Servant Director and FCF) Darlene Doetherow (Lay Leader, Superintendency, Finance) Walter Collier (Trustees) Nancy Lockhart (Trustees) Bettye Ward Fletcher (Trustees) Malcolm Harvey (Superintendency) Brian Gomillion (Superintendency) Brenda Britt (Superintendency) Sandra Rasberry (Superintendency) LaToya Redd Thompson (Superintendency) Sherry Russum (Finance) Carolyn Anderson (Finance) Paul Young (Finance) Donna Gilbert (Finance) Gordon Herring (FCF) Rita Anderson (dCOM) Dorothy Redd (dCOM) Hugh Langley (Disaster Coordinator) Nora Roberts (Older Adults Coordinator) Peggy Peterson (UMW President) Fred Shaw (UMM President) Kathryn Scoggins (Youth President)

Greenwood District Board of Trustees 2019: Jim Robertson, Pam Redd 2020: Carl Grubb, Dennis Gossett, Chair; Tony Proctor 2021: Charles Branch, Chad Bowen District Lay Leader: John McClay District Superintendent: Rusty Keen Finance Committee 2019: Dennis Gossett, Conner Caffey, Treasurer 2020: Daniel Herring, Walter Roberts, Amanda Hardin 2021: Brad Johnson, Katrina Bays, Johnny Davis District Superintendent: Rusty Keen District Secretary: Susan Clinkscales Greenwood Staff: Trey Skaggs Church Building and Locations Committee and Faith Community Formation Committee 2019: Walter Goldsmith, Terry Williams, Linda Malone 2020: Trey Skaggs, Chair; Brad Corban 2021: Allen King, Thelma Collins Lay Leader: John McClay Committee on Superintendency 2019: Turner Arant, Jennette Moore, Josephine Browning, Walter Sturdivant 2020: Will Wilkerson, Chair; Annie Williams, Sally Bevill 2021: Johnny Davis, Conrad Longfellow, Scott Wright Lay Leader: John McClay 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 19

Committee on Ordained Ministry 2019: Daniel Herring, Chair; Conner Caffey, Tony McDonald, Sally Bevill 2020:Bernell Saffold, Will Wilkerson, Jack Wooten, Ed Saunders, Henry Fant 2021: Tony Ashford, Willie Williams, Scott Wright, Chad Bowen District Superintendent: Steven P. Keen Ex-Officio: John McClay

Hattiesburg District District Officers Lay Leader: Dwight Yates UMM President: Marvin Strahan UMW President: Henrietta Brown District Lay Servant: Henrietta Brown District Young Adult Member: Edgar Walker, Jamie LeJeune, Marcus Gaut Additional Equalizing Members: Curtis Dixon, Mae Lois Moody Church Location and Building Mitchell Guess, Chair West Team: Mitchell Guess, Leader; Bob Black, Linda Dixon, Dwayne Mayo East Team: Donald Rogers, Leader; Johniel Henry, Louis Crumbley, Jr., Terry Herron District Discipleship Team Vicki Baldwin, Brad Corban, Cynthia Cross, Louis Johnson, Kim Kay, Mae Lois Moody, Corey Proctor, Todd Watson, Dwight Yates District Superintendency Dwight Yates, Lay Leader Class of June 2016 - June 2019: Paul Roller, Henrietta Brown, Jimmie Jones Class of June 2017 - June 2020: Nance Hixon, Sam Britton Class of June 2018 - June 2021: Vicki Baldwin, Cory Proctor Finance and Audit Scot Jones, Chair; Dwight Yates, Lay Leader; Todd Watson, Treasurer; Kim Kay, Secretary District Personnel Committee Victoria Baldwin, Paul Roller District Board of Laity Dwight Yates, Otis Magee, Vickie Moody, Lenora Jones, Roosevelt Ulmer, Henrietta Brown, Cynthia Cross Board of Trustees Gene Carothers, Chair June 2016 - June 2019: Haskins Montgomery, John Gavin, Gene Carothers, Scot Jones, Chris Howdeshell June 2017 - June 2020: Todd Watson Ordained Ministry Amy Roller, Chair; Todd Watson, Vice Chair; Corey Proctor, Secretary; Bruce Case, Registrar Class of June 2016 - June 2019: Dixie Holder-Cummings, Sessions Polk, Joan Holland, Eddie Brown, Julie Collins Class of June 2017 - June 2020: Annie McLean, Nance Hixon, Andrew LeBlanc, Glenn Freeman, Corey Proctor Class of June 2018 - June 2021: Bruce Case, Amy Roller, Linda Dixon, Todd Watson, Henry Bethley Mentors at 1/8/19: Susan Eaton, Bobby Brewer, Andy Cotton 20 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Meridian District District Committee Leaders/Board of Laity Lay Leader: Director of Lay Speaking: Sarah King UMM Representative: Mitchell Dawkins UMW President: Gloria McAlpine UMYF President: Brandon Brown District Youth (Age 12-17): B.J. Branning District Youth Young Adult (Age 18-30): Committee on Property and Locations Class of 2019: Dorothy Gowdy, Carol Smith, Wink Glover Class of 2020: Rev. Cheryl Farr, Rev. Owen Gordon Class of 2021: Phil Sutphin (Chair), Rev. Ron Gomillion Committee on Finance Class of 2019: Janice Tinsley, Cheryl Sparkman, Rev. Zac Cox Class of 2020: Rev. Preston Jones, Sherry McFarland, John A. Brown Class of 2021: Rev. Chris Young (Chair), Jan Hitt Trustees Class of 2019: Dorothy McGruder, Charley Westerfield, Rev. John Branning Class of 2020: Thomas Jones, Sylvia Hosch Class of 2021: Mark Scarborough (Chair), Terry Pair, Oliver Peebles District Superintendency Committee Class of 2019: Rev. Gary Howse, Rev. Renay Dawkins Class of 2020: Dan Willis (Chair), Robert Turnage Class of 2021: Lisa Young, Maurice Hall, Carrol Barham Ex. Officio: Rev. Dayna Goff (DS) District Committee on Ordained Ministry Class of 2019: Rev. Dale Moore, Rev. David Schultz, Don Pratt, Bobby Martin, Kiah Hitt, Rev. Marjorie Walker, Mary Simpson Class of 2020: Rev. Hal Hall, Rev. John Branning (Chair), Sarah King, Rev. Hiram Coker, Robert Hughes Class of 2021: Rev. Ron Kitchens, Rev. Lannis May, Rev. John Wesley Leek, Rev. Steven Owens, Marvin Blanks, Rev. Bob Peden, Joyce Cox Ex. Officio: Rev. Susannah Grubbs Carr (DCOM Registrar), Rev. Dayna Goff (DS) District Tellers Clergy: Rev. Trevor Gore Laity: Mary Simpson District Operations Team (SLI) 1. Rev. John Branning 2. Rev. Susannah Grubbs-Carr 3. Rev. Chris Young 4. Rev. Marjorie Walker Nominations Committee Clergy: Rev. John Branning Laity: Sarah King 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 21

Equalizing Delegates 1. Jan Hitt 2. Kiah Hitt 3. Sherry Morgan 4. Patricia Battle 5. Norman Coleman 6. Francis Gail Jones

New Albany District Laity District Lay Leader: Buddy Wiltshire Church Location and Building Rev. Mark Nail, Chair; Rev. Daniel Hathorne, Vice-Chair; Phyllis Colson, Bill Glover, Vivian Richardson, Jimmy Watts, Rev. Rocky Miskelly, Dr. Steve Shirley District Superintendency Jerry Beck, Chair; Ann Holmes, Jack Ivy, Rev. Harrell Moore, Heath Coggins, Buddy Wiltshire, Kim Haynes, Helen Dixon, Rev. Eugene Stockstill Finance and Audit Sue Ellen Miller, Chair; Cheryl Prather, Vance Witt, Joe Rials, Rick Wells Ordained Ministry Rev. Jason Franklin, Chair; Rev. Kim Parker, Rev. Billy Ray Stonestreet, Rev. Ricky Bishop, Camille Galloway, Ethel Grisham, Hugh Tate, Rev. Eugene Stockstill, Buddy Wiltshire, Rev. Warren Black, Rev. Tim Sisk, James Dye Trustees Rev. Tim Prather, Chair, Jean Dillard, Rachel Eaton, Al Fenger, Butch Cobb, Dennis McGaha, Johnny Coombs, Buford Baylis, Matt Harris, Kenny Owens District Officers District UMW President: Marilyn Colyer District Youth Coordinator: Rev. Thomas Toole District UMYF: Laura Ruth Welborn District Director of Lay Servant Ministry: Kenneth and Barbara Wortham District Disaster Response Coordinator: Rev. Jim Petermann District Health Coordinator: Laura Gillom District Chancellor: Chris Latimer Tellers for 2019 Annual Conference Clergy: Rev. Eugene Stockstill Laity: Kenneth Wortham

Seashore District District Board Of Ministry Rev. Ann Kaufman (Chair) Rev. Robbie Murden (Registrar) Rev. Elijah Mitchell Rev. Larry White Rev. David Greer Rev. Dr. Eric Pridmore Rev. Cliff Burris Rev. John McCay III Rev. Larry Pickering Rev. Dr. Victor Chatham Rev. Mary Stewart Rev. Jim Curtis Mr. Mack Douglas Mrs. Vera Thomas 22 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Finance Mrs. Stacey Penny (Chair) Mr. Tom McCormick Mrs. Beth Dean Rev. Jeff Switzer Mrs. Vera Thomas Mr. Ford Kinsey Superintendency Rev. Gary Knight (Chair) Rev. Ella Dedeaux Mr. Ted Hearn Rev. Beth Matthews Mrs. Vera Thomas Rev. Peggy Gibson Mr. Merlon Hines Mr. Halsey Cumbest Trustees / Church Building & Location Rev. Kevin Bradley (Co-Chair) Mr. Eddie Appel Mr. Robert Sharp Rev. Tom East (Co-Chair) Rev. Len McRaney Mr. Wayne Jones Mrs. Stacey Penny Rev. David Buchholz District Leadership Team Rev. Ben Barlow Mr. Andre’ DeBose Rev. Tanya Edwards-Evans Rev. Austin Hoyle Rev. Jon Kaufman Rev. Harrell Moore Rev. Elijah Mitchell Rev. Jeff Trehern Rev. Kevin Bradley Mrs. Vera Thomas Rev. Sherry Judy Mrs. Elaine Tinsley Mr. Keith D’Angelo Faith Community Formation Team Rev. John McCay III, (Co-Chair) Rev. Brad Sartor Rev. Kevin Bradley Rev. Rachel Benefield-Pfaff Rev. Jeff Trehern District Officers Disaster/Missions Coordinator: Rev. David Newton Lay Leader: Mrs. Vera Thomas Lay Servant Ministry: Mrs. Maureen Fields UMW President: Ms. Donna Joplin UMM President: Mr. Keith D’Angelo District Chancellor:

Senatobia District District Superintendent: Rev. Rickey Haynes District Secretary: Cheryl Denley Lay Leader: Cristen Barnard Director of Lay Servant Ministries: Billie Wilhite UMW: Bernice Sykes UMM: TBD District Children’s Ministry Coordinator: Rev. Alecia Fischer District Youth Ministry Coordinator: Josh Groce Disaster Coordinator: Rev. David Huffman District Chancellor: Superintendency Committee Chair: Rev. Amanda Gordon Class of 2019: Craig Shideler, Rev. Zach Beasley Class of 2020: Leonard Cotton, Rev. Amanda Gordon Class of 2021:Rev. Ed Woodall, Pat Bibb Ex Officio: Cristen Barnard 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 23

District Location and Building Chair: Lee Murphy Class of 2019: Sonny Daniels, Rev. Milton Whatley Class of 2020: Rev. Corey Truett, Rev. Jeff Tollison Class of 2021: Lee Murphy, Melvin McClure Finance Committee Chair: Rev. Keith Keeton Class of 2019: Carl Handy, Rev. Sam Burton Class of 2020: David Beene, Jane Downs, Rev. Keith Keeton Class of 2021: Barbara Broome, Eddie Ray Ex Officio: Cristen Barnard, Glenda Rhodes, Cheryl Denley District Trustees Chair: Bob Meachem Class of 2019: Hubert Foster, Rev. David Laird Class of 2020: Bob Meachem, Rev. Chuck Bursi Class of 2021: Lew Houston, Larry Maugh District Committee on Ordained Ministry Rev. Sam Burton (2019-20) Class of 2019: Rev. Adam Gordon, Rev. Charles Reed Class of 2020: Rev. Dwayne Scoggins, Rev. Amy Daniels, Rev. Sam Burton Class of 2021: Rev. Zach Beasley, Kathy Marlow, Rev. Pat Ludlam Ex Officio: Cristen Barnard District Operational Team/SLI Chair: Rev. Scott Larsen Cheryl Denley, Rickey Haynes, Cristen Barnard, Amanda Gordon, Stephen Sparks, Neville Vanderburg, David Cox, Jennifer Garrott: Keith Keeton, Zach Beasley, Nilse Gilliam Faith Community Formation Committee Corey Truett, Rickey Haynes, Cheryl Denley, Morgan Spencer, Dwayne Scoggins, Carrie Mayo, Dwayne Mayo

Starkville District District Committee on Ordained Ministry Class of 2019: Rev. George Buell, Register; Dr. Marty Wiseman, Rev. Darian Duckworth, Rev. Ozell Landfair Class of 2020: Dr. Sarah Sanders, Rev. Jake Adams-Wilson, Mr. Emil Lovely, Rev. Becky Smith Class of 2021: Rev. Bob Whiteside, Mrs. Ann Walker, Rev. Rochelle Ashford-Minor, Rev. Tom Potter, Chair Finance Committee Class of 2019: Mrs. Letitia Jackson, Mrs. Ann Walker Class of 2020: Dr. Lenora Hogan Class of 2021: Ms. Asylee Gardner, Mr. Jason McCoy Mr. Mike McCully, Chair Staff (Ex. Officio): Mrs. Mona Howell, Bookkeeper; Mrs. Pam Simmons, Administrative Assistant Superintendency Committee Class of 2019: Mrs. Annie Kelly: Mrs. Elmarie Brooks: Rev. Jamie Bailey, Chair Class of 2020: Dr. Marty Wiseman: Rev. Rochelle Ashford-Minor Class of 2021: Ms. Asylee Gardner Ex. Officio: Mr. Hal Smith, District Lay Leader 24 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Trustees Class of 2019: TBA, Chair, Rev. Eddie Hinton Class of 2020: Mrs. Lenore Griffin, Rev. Keith Williams Class of 2021: Mr. William Oakley, Mrs. Ruby Bowie Church Location & Building Committee Rev. George Buell, Chair; Rev. Anne R. Bradley, Rev. Gene Bramlett, Rev. Antra Geeter, Rev. Ron Jefferson, Mr. Doyle Pendley, and Dr. Sarah Sanders Faith Formation Committee Rev. George Buell, Chair; Rev. Jake Adams-Wilson, Mr. Butch Stokes, and Rev. Sarah Windham Disaster Recovery Starkville Districts: Rev. Wayne Napier, Chair Attala County: Lowndes County: Mr. Lee Burdine, Vice Chair Noxubee County: Rev. Andy Pearson Oktibbeha County: Webster County: Ms. Vickey Patterson Winston County: Rev. Keith Williams District Spiritual Leadership Team Rev. Paulette Buford-James, DS; Rev. Gene Bramlett, Rev. Sandra Brown, Mr. Governor Mays, Rev. Tom Potter, Dr. Sarah Sanders, Mr. Hal Smith, Mrs. Tina Stevenson, Rev. Sarah Windham, Rev. Leevel Yarbrough District Personnel Committee Mrs. Jimmie Whitt, Chair; Rev. Curtis Bray, Mr. Lee Burdine, Rev. Hugh Griffith, and Mr. Percy Jones District Grievance Committee Mrs. Jimmie Whitt, Rev. Curtis Bray, Rev. Hugh Griffith District Board of Laity Rev. Paulette Buford-James, District Superintendent Mrs. Pamela Simmons, Administrative Assistant Hal Smith, District Lay Leader, Chair Dr. Sarah Sanders, Chair Mission TBA, District UM Youth Rev. Jamie Bailey, District Statistician Rev. Andy Tentoni, District UMM President Mrs. Eve Priester, District UMW President Mr. Mike McCully, Finance Committee Chair Mrs. Julia Pendley, Education Mrs. Gwen Sisson, District Communicator Mr. Amando de la Cruz, International Ministry Mrs. Alberta Hendrix, District Lay Servant Ministries Director, Vice-Chair Rev. Sarah Windham, Lay Ministries Tellers Rev. Jerome Wilson (Clergy) Mr. Percy Jones (Lay) 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 25

Tupelo District District Officers District Secretary and Program Administrator: Kristen Partin District Treasurer: Ben Orr District Lay Leader: Eugene Conwill District Lay Servant Ministries Coordinator: Kathy Box District UMCOR/UMVIM Coordinator: Darrell Sanderson District UMM President: Trae Wyatt District UMW President: Kathleen Smith District Youth President: Bonnie Baldwin District Communications Coordinator: Kristen Partin District Director of Children’s Ministries: Kristen Partin District Director of Youth Ministries: Katie Atkins District Missions Coordinator: Eric Sanford District Chancellor: Jason Herring District Statistician: Joe Coggins District Committee on Church Buildings and Locations (9) Darrell Sanderson, Chair; Glenn Gann, Robert Doolittle, Joe Coggins, Lavert Fitzpatrick, Anne Harrington, Mary Hutson, Jim Langston, Wesley Partin. District Committee on Finance (10) Roger Puhr, Chair; James Agnew, Terri Armstrong, Smith Lilley, Bill Gammill, Bob McGee, Ben Orr, Darrell Sanderson, Gerald Wages, Faith West. District Committee on Ordained Ministry (16) Smith Lilley, Chair; Terri Armstrong, Ever Jean Burt, Perry Carr, Betsy Collums, Tim Green, Dianne Harris, Jerrold Hood, B. B. Hosch, Mary Hutson, Minnie Leeper, Elbrist Mason, Gloria McKinney, Roger Puhr, David Shumaker, Truman Thompson. District Committee on Superintendency (11) Faith West, Chair; Lee Anne Barnes, Phillip Box, Eugene Conwill, Judy Doolittle, Mary Jo Heard, Don McCain, Marty Polk, Darrell Sanderson, Bobby Thompson, Truman Thompson District Trustees (10) Darrell Sanderson, Chair; Pedro Clay, James Ford, Thomas Griffith, Cully Hartsell, Carol Pruitt, Ellen Short, Bobby Thomas, Truman Thompson. District Tellers at Annual Conference Lay: Wesley Partin, Eugene Conwill Clergy: Joe Coggins, Lavert Fitzpatrick

West Jackson District Dr. Stephen Cook, District Superintendent District Officers District Chancellor: Briggs Hopson, III District Lay Leader: Denise De Rossette Associate District Lay Leaders: Oliver Ellis District Lay Servant Ministry Coordinator: Jackie Hudson District Treasurer: Vicki Jones District Team Leader: Johniel Henry District UMW, President: Gloria Lee District UMM, President: John Reed United Methodist Youth: Michael Williams 26 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

District Disaster Coordinators: Jim Moss (Laity) and Frank Newell (Clergy) District Mission Coordinator: Domini Henry District Older Adult Coordinator: Renee Neblett Trustees 2018-2019: Jim Hall, Chair; Tim Allen 2019-2020: Larscie Ellis 2020-2021: Herbert Terry; Dwight Braylock Finance 2018-2019: Tommy Dyson, Chair; Linda Williams 2019-2020: Bill Burrow, Annie Clay 2020-2021: Jesse Ross, Ann Coleman Committee On Superintendency 2018-2019: Larry Sappington, Jim Stirgus, Jr., Angie Williams, Tammy Brown 2019-2020: Joe May, Chair; Freddie Logan, Bobbie McDonald 2020-2021: Kathy Price, Brenda Thornburg, Charles Bryant, Sr. District Board of Church Location and Building 2018-2019: Paul McDonald 2019-2020: Demario Benson, Chair; Minta Davis 2020-2021: Scott Carter, Quandra’ Swayze, Jason Zebert Committee On Ministry (Clergy & Laity) 2018-2019: Lauren Porter, Chair; Lance Presley, Registrar; David McCoy, Walt Frazier 2019-2020: Kenneth Jones, Elizabeth Henry, Pam May, Lely Mohamed, Philip Messner 2020-2021: Pamela Cameron, Bert Felder, Tommy Stephenson, Diane Braman, Dawn Flowers Faith Community Formation 2018-2019: Demario Benson, Ricky James, Chair 2019-2020: Mitch Cochran, Vera Hall, Jason Zebert 2020-2021: Lauren Porter, Jim Moss, Matt Hall

F. 2019 Annual Conference Tellers District Laity Clergy Brookhaven Charles Campbell Rev. Mark Jones East Jackson Theon Johnson Rev. Calvin Cosnahan Greenwood D. K. Baria Rev. Annie Washington Hattiesburg Chris Cross Rev. Paul Roller Meridian Mary Simpson Rev. Trevor Gore New Albany Kenneth Wortham Rev. Eugene Stockstill Seashore Shondrell Moye Rev. Tanya Edwards-Evans Senatobia Robert Barnard Rev. Charles Reed Starkville Percy Jones Rev. Jerome Wilson Tupelo Joe Coggins Rev. Wesley Partin West Jackson Dorothy Portis Larry Sappington 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 27

Section II

Business of the Annual Conference Section will be added after 2019 AC Session

2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 29

Section III

Administry A. Council on Finance & Administration

Report #1

1. Organization and Responsibilities and Recommendations As defined in Section 611 of the 2016 Book of Discipline, the purpose of the Council on Finance & Administration shall be to develop and administer a comprehensive and coordinated plan of fiscal and administrative policies, procedures, and management services for the annual conference. The Mississippi Conference Council on Finance and Administration shall have an executive committee comprised of the following six individuals: council chair, council vice-chair, chairs of the sub committees on benevolence, clergy support, and administration, and the conference treasurer. The Council on Finance and Administration (CFA) has examined the financial and administrative policies and procedures of the annual conference, including the whole process of agency and institutional funding and apportioned mission share allocations for local churches. Herein are our recommendations of procedures and policies to be followed by the Mississippi Annual Conference. 2. Annual Conference Member Responsibility (2016 Discipline paragraph 247.14 & 251.2) Lay and clergy members of the Annual Conference have the disciplinary responsibility of interpret- ing the conference mission and ministry plan and funding plan adopted at Annual Conference to their congregations. This includes telling the story of our shared ministries across Mississippi and around the world and funding at 100% the apportioned mission share for each congregation. Before Annual Conference ■ Pray for your work as a member to Annual Conference. ■ Learn about the items that will be presented at Annual Conference by studying this Pre-Conference Journal. ■ Share this information with the leaders of your church so that you will be able to wisely engage as a member of Annual Conference. ■ Lead your local church governing body in studying the proposed Conference budget. Come to Conference prepared to ask questions, propose any changes that the governing body suggest, and be prepared to vote on the budget. After budget approval, be prepared to support the decision of the Annual Conference body. At Annual Conference ■ Attend the sessions of Annual Conference and learn all you can about the scope of our shared ministry through the United Methodist Church. ■ Be engaged in approving a budget that will fund our denominational shared ministries. After Annual Conference ■ Report to your local church council on actions of the Annual Conference as soon as possible, but no later than three months after the close of conference (Par. 251.2). ■ Interpret to your church and charge conference “…the importance of the apportioned mission shares, explaining the causes supported by each of them and their place in the total program of the church. The World Service Fund is basic in the financial program of The United Methodist Church. World Service apportioned mission shares represent the minimum needs for mission 30 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

and ministry of the worldwide United Methodist Church.” Conference benevolences represent the minimum monetary needs for mission and ministry in the Mississippi Annual Conference (Par.247.14). ■ Support and encourage payment of your apportioned mission share at 100%. Payment in full of these apportioned mission shares is the first benevolent responsibility of each congregation (Paragraph 247.14). ■ Continue educating your congregation throughout the year about the ministries supported by the apportioned mission shares. Resources The following resources are available to help you interpret the apportioned mission shares to your church: ■ Annual budget tabloid prepared by the conference treasurer ■ Mississippi United Methodist web site www.mississippi-umc.org ■ Sharing God’s Gifts web site www.umcgiving.org 3. Conference Expenditures Internal control and accounting policies adequate to properly safeguard the assets of the conference have been examined by the CFA. The controls and polices are on file in the treasurer’s office and are available for review during normal business hours. CFA believes the controls and policies are currently adequate but the council pledges to review them annually and update them as needed.

A. Annual Conference Per Diem Each pastoral charge shall provide for the lodging and meal expenses of their pastor(s), lay members(s), deacon(s) in full connection, and diaconal minister(s) attending Annual Conference. The clergy and diaconal ministers in special appointments shall have their expenses paid by the agency served. The Conference Board of Pension shall pay the per diem for the Surviving Spouses attending annual conference. Per diem paid by the conference will begin with the opening session of Annual Conference and end with the closing session. Per diem paid by the annual conference shall be at the following rate: sixty dollars ($60.00) per night for lodging when staying in a motel/hotel and ten dollars ($10.00) per meal. There will be no reimbursement from the annual conference for travel. As members of the Annual Conference who are not appointed to a local church, the following persons attending Annual Conference shall receive per diem paid by the conference. a. Retired Clergy – Not appointed to a local church b. Clergy receiving Disability Income from Wespath Benefits/Investments and on medical leave but not appointed to a local church c. Retired Diaconal Ministers – Not appointed to a local church d. Diaconal Ministers receiving Disability Income from Wespath Benefits/Investments and on medical leave but not appointed to a local church e. The Annual Conference Secretary in consultation with the Bishop and Extended Cabinet determines the required number of equalizing members. The equalizing members as named by the Annual Conference Secretary will be paid per diem by the conference. f. Seminary students who are candidates for ministry and approved by the Board of Ordained Ministry, except those students who serve churches within the bounds of the conference. g. Special cases approved by the cabinet.

B. Conference Compensation The pay period of clergy appointed at annual conference shall begin on July 1. Compensation is to be paid as earned. In no instance shall compensation be paid in advance by the conference or any entity amenable to the annual conference. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 31

Salaries of District Superintendents and conference personnel, clergy and exempt lay, shall be given priority and paid in equal semi-monthly installments. Travel expenses in the work of the conference shall be paid on voucher at the rate established by the Internal Revenue Service for business miles. Required documentation for conference business shall be the following: purpose of travel, mileage, copies of hotel bills, documentation for meals, receipts for car rental and fuel, parking, and tolls. In situations where travel is outside the conference bounds, rental cars should be requested only when their use will be more economical than public transportation or when a special situation applies, e.g., excessive material to carry, out-of-the-way location, extensive local travel. The conference treasurer is hereby authorized to withhold funds from the salaries of annual conference personnel for the purpose of investing said funds in tax deferred programs and for payment of salary reduction reimbursement plans in keeping with Internal Revenue Service policies when such request is made by conference personnel.

C. Compensation for District Superintendents, Directors and Senior Staff The Mississippi Conference shall provide equal compensation packages for the district superintendents. Compensation shall be defined as cash salary. The cash salary amount is determined annually by the CFA. The district shall provide funding for the housing and utilities of the superintendent if no parsonage is provided. In the event there is no parsonage provided, the housing allowance shall be 25% of the superintendent’s cash salary. The 2020 utility allowance provided by the district to all superintendents shall be $6,250. The district shall also maintain, equip, and fund the operation of a district office, including all ele- ments of compensation for an administrative assistant or other lay/clergy employees. The Conference Personnel Committee shall recommend the compensation of their Directors/Senior Staff to the Council on Finance and Administration. None of these compensation packages shall exceed the District Superintendent’s compensation package. CFA will determine the compensation of the Treasurer/Director of Finance and Administration. The salary shall be remitted semi-monthly from the conference treasurer’s office. Non-exempt employee’s compensation shall be determined on a weekly basis as provide by the DOL and paid on a bi-weekly basis. Travel, continuing education, and reimbursable expenses shall be paid monthly after vouchers have been submitted with appropriate documentation. There is an accountable reimbursement policy applicable to all conference employees. Salary budgets are approved in total by the Annual Conference. The appropriate personnel committees and directors are hereby authorized to review and fix annual compensation by November 30 within the Annual Conference authorized budget in accordance with the Employee Handbook.

D. Moving Expense The church receiving a new pastor shall consult with the incoming pastor to negotiate the moving expenses of the pastor. The moving expenses of incoming conference personnel shall be paid from the conference funds. The moving expenses of an incoming district superintendent shall be paid by the district from district funds. Moving expenses for a retiring minister or a minister going on disability shall be paid by the conference treasurer in an amount to cover his/her approved expenses as defined below in an amount not to exceed $1,800. The move of a minister’s surviving spouse and immediate family following the death of a minister serving an appointment, shall be paid by the conference from the conference fund in an amount not to exceed $1,800. The conference payment will be limited to actual documented cost. A maximum of $1,800 will be available toward the prorated cost of moves outside the bounds of the conference. The allowable reimbursement will be based on mileage inside the conference bounds divided by the total mileage of the move. The approved costs as described above multiplied by the percentage will determine the reimbursable amount. Moving expenses can be paid within one year of retirement, disability, or death of ministers. 32 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

The moving expenses for student pastors returning to the conference for an appointment shall be paid from their place of residence at the seminary to the annual conference line in an amount not to exceed $1,800. The local church receiving such pastor shall pay the moving expenses from the conference line to said local church parsonage. The conference payment shall be paid from the conference fund and shall cover the actual documented costs. The moving expenses of an effective member of another annual conference initiated by the bishop and the cabinet transferring into this conference shall be paid from the conference fund from his/her place of residence to the annual conference line up to a maximum of $1,800. The local church receiving such transfer minister shall pay the expense from the conference line to said local church parsonage. If the minister initiates the move, he/she shall pay the expense to the conference line and the local church receiving such transferred minister shall pay the expense from the conference line to said local church parsonage. In compliance with federal law, moving expense whether reimbursed, paid to a vendor or to the clergy is taxable income.

E. Task Force Expenses The expenses of persons called by the bishop for meetings shall be referred to the CFA for funding at the usual rate for conference committee meetings unless otherwise provided.

F. Travel Reimbursement–Conference Committees and Boards Conference agencies, boards, and committees receiving church funds have both a fiduciary and stewardship responsibility to determine that all expenditures are reasonable, necessary, appropriate, and directly related to their mission. In compliance with IRS regulations the conference shall pay travel to volunteers at the rate established by the IRS for charitable travel on a per-mile basis by the most direct route. No mileage is to be allowed for persons attending meetings who are otherwise allowed travel expenses in connection with their positions in the church. No mileage is to be allowed for persons attending meetings in the town of their residence. No mileage is to be allowed for persons attending conference committee meetings at Annual Conference who are members of the annual conference. It is strongly recommended that travel to meetings be by carpool. Travel shall be paid for conference meetings only if the meeting is within the bounds of the annual conference. Travel to meetings out of the conference bounds should be approved by the chairperson of the sponsoring conference committee, agency, or board. The following documentation shall accompany the request for reimbursement: purpose of travel, copies of hotel bills, documentation for meals, receipts for car rental, parking and tolls. Rental cars should be requested only when their use will be more economical than public transportation or when a special situation applies, e.g., excessive material to carry, out-of-the- way location, or extensive local travel. No reimbursement will be made for lost time that is incurred by a volunteer person attending conference meetings. All in-travel meal subsidies shall be paid at the maximum of $10 for breakfast, $10 for lunch and $10 for dinner. To receive a meal subsidy during travel, the duration of the trip must be more than 24 hours. This does not apply to meals arranged by a board or agency during a meeting of the group. A group meeting all day or longer may arrange for a meal to be served at a higher cost if necessary. Any request for meal reimbursement, other than the allowances stated, must be accompanied by actual receipts. Cash advances shall be kept to a minimum. If an advance is needed, the request shall be made on the Conference Voucher, and approved by the chairperson of the sponsoring conference committee, agency, or board. Advances should be for specific trips or events and shall be settled by the person within one week of the termination of a trip or event. A form acceptable to the Internal Revenue Service to verify meeting travel expenses for income tax credit as a donation is available in the conference treasurer’s office. This can be used to document travel dates. The volunteer should contact their tax advisor for properly handling those unreimbursed expenses. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 33

G. Capital Expenditures As a matter of policy, the CFA will not include proposed capital building expenditures as a part of the regular budgetary process of the annual conference. Capital needs should be serviced through special appeals and/or capital campaigns.

H. Reserves CFA recommends that the conference’s goal around reserves is to generally maintain financial assets to meet 120 days of operating expenses. 4. Conference Operating Reserve/Authority To Borrow The Executive Committee of the CFA is authorized to use the conference reserves for emergency situations as determined by the committee. Additionally, the Executive Committee of CFA is authorized to borrow up to $500,000 for emergency needs and shall be reported to the full CFA at its next meeting. 5. Formula for Establishing Apportioned Mission Shares The statistical information provided by each local church pastor at the end of the year shall be used to provide the base for each church’s share of the conference mission share budget. The last two years of available statistical data will be used in computing a resulting fraction that will become the local church’s index, and represents its proportionate share of the budget. (Divide the average amount spent by the local church on the statistical line items 41a through 47 over the last two years by the amount spent by all churches in the conference on those items to compute the church’s index.) Appeals for changes in Apportioned Mission Shares made because amounts were incorrectly reported shall be made to Council on Finance and Administration through the Conference Treasurer provided the church paid 100% of their 2018 mission shares. This appeal shall be made before January 1, 2020. The CFA will continue to study the Apportioned Mission Share formula to determine a fair and equitable allocation based on receipts rather than expenditures. This supports the Stewardship emphasis of the Conference. A. The base years for the 2020 Apportionment process shall be 2017 and 2018 and shall be the following line items taken from the pastor’s year-end statistical report in EZRA. ■ Line 41 a: Senior Pastor’s Base Compensation ■ Line 41 b: Associate Pastor(s) Base Compensation ■ Line 41 c: Deacon’s Base Compensation ■ Line 42 a: Housing Benefits for Lead Pastor ■ Line 42 b: Housing Benefits for Associate Pastor ■ Line 42 c : Housing Benefits for Deacons ■ Line 43: Pastor and Associates reimbursements ■ Line 44: Pastor and Associates cash allowances (non accountable) ■ Line 45: Salary and benefits for all other church staff and diaconal ministers ■ Line 46: Current Expenses for Local Church Program ■ Line 47: Local Church Operating Expenses B. New Church starts are asked to tithe their offerings raised above conference support during their period of development. New Churches shall be apportioned for the first time beginning in the year after their consecration as a new congregation. C. The CFA recommends the continuation of the Merit Award program. The categories to be recognized are: (1) churches paying 100% of every Apportioned Mission Share (Conference and District) line item and 100% of Clergy Benefit Invoices by the close out date of January 10, 2020 and (2) churches that increased their overall giving percentage in 2019 over the 2018 percentage paid to overall apportioned conference and district missions shares. A generosity certificate signed by the bishop will be given by the district superintendent to each church qualifying for the Merit Award. 34 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

D. Churches who did not pay any portion of their mission shares in the previous year are asked to tithe their offerings. E. Churches who did not pay their mission shares in full are asked to determine a method by which they increase their percentage over the previous year. 6. Church and Campus Ministry Grants All annual conference boards, committees, commissions, agencies, churches or individuals related thereto, making application for General Church funds and/ or other grants administered by any conference or jurisdiction, or general agency of The United Methodist Church or any other United Methodist entity, shall first furnish copies of such applications to those conference officers/staff charged with the role of consultation in paragraph 719 of The 2016 Book of Discipline. An accounting of actual use of grant funds must be presented to the granting agent and a copy to the conference treasurer’s office within 90 days of the final distribution of funds by the local church or Campus Ministry. 7. Investment Policy All investment funds of the annual conference, under the control of the conference treasurer and CFA, shall be invested under the direction of the Council on Finance and Administration with priority given to the Mississippi United Methodist Foundation and Wespath Benefits/Investments. 8. Depository In accordance with Section 616 of The 2016 Book of Discipline, the CFA has designated Trustmark National Bank as the depository for all checking accounts of the conference, pension and medical benefits funds. 9. Local Church Bonding Local churches are reminded that all church treasurers, financial secretaries and others handling church funds are now bonded under the conference-wide insurance program, provided the church has acquired their insurance through the conference-wide plan. Any church that is not in the conference wide program shall provide at its own cost the bonding as required by the 2016 Discipline paragraph 258 (4) b. Churches not on the conference plan shall submit annual proof of bonding by January 31 of each year to the Conference Treasurer. 10. Mailing Lists Mailing lists will be made available to United Methodist agencies and institutions from the Office of Communication and Connection as it is practical. 11. Special Appeals CFA urges institutions to work to encourage local churches to pay the Apportioned Mission Share before they request any special funding. Permission for conference wide solicitation must be obtained at least 180 days in advance of the mailings, etc. from the Council on Finance and Administration. The CFA executive committee may issue this approval. Agencies and institutions that are not United Methodist must have approval from CFA to solicit funds from the churches within the conference. 12. Golden Cross Offering CFA recommends that Golden Cross Sunday be expanded to include the Clergy/Diaconal Fund in the following manner. Golden Cross Funds are in support of the health and welfare ministries within the annual conference. This offering shall provide financial support to care for sick persons, older persons, children and youth, and people with disabilities. Special emphasis shall be given to aiding those ministries that provide direct financial assistance to persons in need. Assistance for lay people shall be accessed through the Conference Communication and Connection office. Funds available for clergy families 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 35 shall be administered in the Clergy/Diaconal Fund under the guidelines as established by the Mississippi Conference District Superintendents. This special Sunday offering shall be shared leaving half in the local church receiving the offering and the other half remitted to the conference treasurer’s office. The Conference Treasurer shall place 75% for lay assistance and 25% for clergy assistance through the Clergy/ Diaconal Fund. 13. 2019 and 2020 Special Day Offerings 2019 2020 Special Day Offering January 20 January 19 *Human Relations Day January 27 January 26 Golden Cross Sunday February 17 February 16 Methodist Rehabilitation Center March 31 March 22 *UMCOR Sunday May 5 April 26 *Native American Sunday May 12 May 10 Mississippi Methodist Senior Services June 16 June 7 *Peace with Justice Sunday July 28 July 26 Conference Emergency Preparedness Sunday September 22 September 20 The Baddour Center October 6 October 4 *World Communion Sunday November 24 November 29 *United Methodist Student Day December 8 December 13 The Methodist Children’s Home *Denotes General Church Offering 14. Accountability of Agency/Institution Receiving Apportioned Mission Shares CFA follows a funding process that requires accountability, responsibility, and communication. During an annual review of agencies and institutions by the appropriate conference committee to which they relate, each agency and institution shall consider as part of their board responsibilities other funding options beyond conference Apportioned Mission Shares. The Council on Finance and Administration requires that each institution requesting funds of the next annual conference present a budget request as designed by the benevolence sub-committee for 2020, duly signed by the chairperson and secretary of the board of directors or trustees indicating that said budget has been approved by the governing body. The budget request is due by November 1, 2018. Boards, agencies, committees, or institutions of the conference not presenting a formal request properly signed by November 1, 2018 will not be considered for funding by CFA for the 2020 budget. The amount made available for the conference programmatic operation shall be determined by the percentage of Apportioned Mission Shares received during the preceding year. Annual conference committees, boards and conference administrative and programmatic budgets shall not be spent in excess of the approved budget adjusted downward to the percentage achieved by line item in the previous year. When the actual receipts exceed that amount, the limitations shall increase as the percentage increases. Excluded from this are the 100% required items and other contractual items. Boards, committees, institutions, and agencies who receive turnaround funds may request an advance on their budgeted funds but it shall be considered and ruled on by the executive committee of CFA and shall not exceed 90% of the percentage paid into the conference for their cause in the preceding year. All United Methodist agencies, community centers, camps, and affiliated institutions are strongly encouraged to develop donor support outside the Mississippi Conference budget. They are also encouraged to keep administrative costs at a minimum percentage of the organization’s budget (as close to 20 percent as possible). 36 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

15. Agency/Institution Audits The CFA acknowledges the differences in audit, review, and compilation reports issued by certified public accountants. The following descriptions continue to be approved by CFA: A. Audit - A financial audit is a systematic examination of financial statements, records and related operations to determine adherence to generally accepted accounting principles, management policies, or stated requirements. The examination of the records includes analytical procedures and verification of pertinent source documents to substantiate the financial statements. An audit provides the highest level of assurance that financial statements are fairly stated. B. Review - A review involves inquiry and analytical procedures that provide the accountant with a reasonable basis for expressing limited assurance that there are no material modifications that should be made to the statements for them to be in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. There is no requirement for the accountant to gather any evidence to corroborate the inquiries and analytical procedures, unless he becomes aware that the information is incorrect, incomplete or otherwise unsatisfactory. A review provides a limited level of assurance that the financial statements are fairly stated. C. Compilation - A compilation involves presenting in the form of financial statement information that is the representation of management without undertaking to express any assurance on the statements. To compile financial statements, the accountant should understand the industry and nature of the business in which the client is engaged, including the form of its accounting records, the qualifications of its accounting personnel, the basis on which the financial statements are to be presented, and the form and content of the financial statements. The accountant is not required to make inquiries or to perform any procedures to validate the information provided to them. A compilation provides a minimum level of assurance that the financial statements are fairly stated. Comparative financial statements, and the accompanying opinion of a certified public accountant, shall be presented by each agency/institution to the Council on Finance and Administration by July 15 for calendar year entities and within 195 days of the close of the fiscal year for entities with a year ending other than December 31. These statements must be prepared in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. A copy of the accounting firm’s management letter must be provided if one was issued. Disbursement of approved funding shall be contingent upon receipt of the previous years’ financial statements. Any discrepancies or irregularities noted by the auditor or the CFA audit committee must be corrected in order for funding to be released to the agency/institution. Audited statements will be required when annual Apportioned Mission Share revenue requested is $200,000 or greater. For entities with annual Apportioned Mission Share revenues requested of less than $200,000, the Audit Committee may accept an alternative engagement with a CPA. The alternative engagement will consist of reviewed or compiled financial statements (as defined above). The CFA Audit Committee may request additional agreed-upon procedures after review of the alternative engagement. If a recipient of conference funds past calendar/fiscal year’s report is not available by July 15, a copy of an internally prepared report, along with an engagement letter from the CPA engaged to do the report shall be submitted. The internally prepared report shall at minimum be a Statement of Activities and Balance Sheet. This report must be presented by July 15. Regardless of budget, any agency required by federal or state law to have an audit will be asked to submit their audited statements to the conference. Only reviews or audits performed by an independent licensed CPA or CPA firm enrolled in a quality peer review program that received an unqualified opinion in its most recent peer review report will be accepted. No internal audits will be accepted. Failure to submit required financial statements by July 15 shall be referred to the full 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 37

CFA Council and could result in the holding of all funds for the current year due the entity, beginning August 1, until such reports have been submitted and reviewed by the Audit Committee of the CFA. All United Methodist institutions affiliated with the Mississippi Annual Conference are required to submit financial statements to the CFA, even though funds are not received from the conference. The following are exempted from submitting the above-mentioned financial statements although a compilation statement from the reviewing body must be presented: ■ Campus ministry units shall report under section 6 above unless they are receiving conference capital campaign funds which require audited financial statements ■ Clergy Spouses 16. Guidance for the Audit of the Local Church The Audit Requirement The Book of Discipline 2016 (Par. 258.4 (d)) requires an annual audit of the financial statements of the local church and all of its organizations and accounts. ■ A local church audit is defined as an independent evaluation of the financial reports and records and the internal controls of the local church by a qualified person or persons. ■ The term “audit” is not intended to impose the need for all churches to engage CPA firms to perform financial statement audits (under GAAS). ■ The procedures followed and the level of reporting can differ depending on facts and circumstances of each church. The Mississippi Annual Conference has based its requirement on the previous available three year average of funding receipts as reported in the statistical data of the Pastor’s annual report. The Purpose of an Audit The purpose of an audit is presented below: ■ Independently verify the reports of the treasurer(s) and financial secretary. ■ Follow the money and test how it is treated at different steps. ■ Document that donated and earned funds of the congregation have been used as stipulated by the donors. ■ Reviews - accounting controls (systems that reduce the possibility of loss, embezzlement or errors). ■ Segregation of duties (assurances that more than one person is involved in critical steps in handling money so that there can be checks and balances). ■ Reasonableness of systems and procedures in the light of all factors, including the size of the church and its budget. A local church’s unique circumstances may suggest that additional steps should be taken. It is important to document the financial processes of your particular local church as required in The Book of Discipline 2016 paragraph 258.4 (c). Definitions: ■ Independent Audit – The discipline states the need for independence on the part of those conducting the annual audit. Independent means that the auditor must not be subject to control or influence by anyone who has responsibility for the financial accounts and records of the local church. There should not be even the appearance of a relationship that may dilute the perception of the independence of the auditor. An independent auditor is one who is unrelated to those with financial responsibilities in the church. If a CPA or accounting firm is chosen, the firm should be unrelated and separate from those with financial responsibilities in the church. ■ Internal controls – policies and procedures that are followed to help minimize financial risks by helping to deter potential fraud, detect errors or omissions, and protect innocent workers. 38 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

■ Internal control policy – a policy prepared for a church that documents the processes and procedures to be followed to help safeguard the financial assets of the church. ■ Permanently restricted funds – donations to the church for a particular purpose where the original gift is not spent but the earnings on the gift can be used for that purpose. ■ Temporarily restricted funds – donations to the church that come with stipulations that limit the use of the funding to a specified purpose. The funding can be spent but just for the intended purpose. ■ Unrestricted funds – donations made to the churches that are for the general use in the ministry of the church. Selecting an Auditor for the Local Church The type of auditor selected and the type of audit performed at each church year will be determined based on the amount of total funds received by the church. The amounts will come from Table 3-Line 55 Total Church Income as reported in the statistical tables. The base year amount will be the average of the available two (2) preceding calendar years as documented in the statistical tables. In general, the following guidelines should be used to determine the type of audit (i.e., if a certified public accounting firm should be hired to perform the audit or if an independent volunteer will be adequate). 1. For churches with average funding receipts of $250,000 or less, an independent qualified member of the church or other qualified volunteer from another church can perform the audit procedures using the Fund Balance Report and audit guide developed by the General Council on Finance and Administration Audit and Review Committee. The auditor shall also review and evaluate internal controls and report the results directly to the church finance committee. Other procedures may be considered necessary based on the nature and activities of each specific church. 2. For churches with average funding receipts between $250,001 and $1,500,000, every year (1) a Financial Statement Review shall be conducted in accordance with Statement on Standards for Accounting and Review (SSARS) and (2) there shall be an Agreed upon Procedures (AUP) engagement completed by the external Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensed in the State of Mississippi. The results of both shall be reported directly to the church finance committee. As part of this type of engagement, the auditor shall be engaged to communicate any internal control deficiencies that are identified during the procedures. In lieu of an annual AUP, a compliance report as defined by the audit subcommittee of the Council on Finance and Administration may be presented every three years. The first compliance report is due by June 30 in the first year that an AUP is not reported. Then every third year thereafter, the report shall be presented. 3. For churches with average funding receipts over $1,500,000, a financial statement audit conducted in accordance with general accepted auditing standards (GAAS) shall be completed every year and reported on by an external Certified Public Accountant licensed in the State of Mississippi. The report shall be delivered to the church finance committee. The Church Finance Committee shall report to the Administrative Board (or other governing body) the results of the annual audit. The report shall then be forwarded to the District Superintendent’s office no later than June 30 for the preceding calendar year report. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 39

Report #2 2019 & 2020 Apportioned Mission Shares Budget 2019 2020 Budget Budget UM Number 1 Avenue of Giving 1 World Service $ 1,564,630 $ 1,557,511 MS UM Extended Ministry 2 Community Centers $ 246,905 $ 260,000 4 Choctaw Mission $ 40,297 $ 40,500 5 United Methodist Hour $ 46,566 $ 44,000 MS UM Extended Ministry Subtotal $ 333,768 $ 344,500 MS UM Conference Clergy Support 31 Board of Medical Benefits Retiree Support $ 950,000 $ - 32 Board of Pensions $ 399,807 $ - 8 District Superintendents Fund $ 1,687,124 $ 1,825,000 9 Spiritual Leadership Formation $ 519,700 $ 583,485 10 Equitable Compensation $ 205,000 $ 270,000 MS UM Conference Clergy Support Subtotal $ 3,761,631 $ 2,613,485 MS UM Annual Conference Leadership Work Areas 11 Annual Conference Administration $ 2,534,988 $ 2,835,750 12 Faith Community Formation $ 600,000 $ 600,000 13 Connectional Ministries/Communications $ 257,450 $ 254,450 MS UM Annual Conference Leadership Work Areas Subtotal $ 3,392,438 $ 3,690,200 UM Higher Education Support 14 Campus Ministries (MS) $ 850,000 $ 850,000 15 Ministerial Ed Funds (General Church) $ 528,459 $ 526,055 16 Millsaps College (MS) $ 290,000 $ 290,000 17 Black College Fund (General Church) $ 210,798 $ 209,838 18 Rust College (MS) $ 145,000 $ 145,000 19 Africa University (General Church) $ 47,176 $ 46,961 UM Higher Education Support Subtotal $ 2,071,433 $ 2,067,854 MS UM Camping And Retreat Centers 20 Camp Lake Stephens $ 125,370 $ 583,485 21 Camp Wesley Pines $ 125,370 $ 140,000 22 Seashore Assembly $ 90,893 $ 128,000 23 Gulfside Assembly $ 30,000 $ 40,000 MS UM Camping And Retreat Centers Subtotal $ 371,633 $ 448,000 UM General Church Administration 24 Episcopal Fund $ 463,351 $ 461,242 25 Administration (General Church) $ 185,787 $ 184,942 26 Southeast Jurisdiction Programming $ 14,000 $ 10,000 27 Interdenominational Cooperative Fund $ 41,329 $ 41,141 UM General Church Administration Subtotal $ 704,467 $ 697,325 Budget Grand Total $ 12,200,000 $ 11,418,875 40 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Report #3 Funding Report of the Clergy Benefits Paragraph 1507 (2) of the 2016 Discipline states “the Conference Council on Finance and Administration shall report to the Annual Conference the amounts computed by the board that are required to meet the needs of the pension, benefit, and relief programs of the conference.” In accordance with that requirement, the following financial needs for the clergy pension and health benefits program are presented to the CFA. For direct invoice purposes, clergy shall mean active, retired, supply or lay ministers. 1. Pre-82 Pension Program ■ The past service rate for 2020 shall be increased to $566 per service year. The 2012 General Conference required that any increase in the PSR will require immediate funding. To increase the PSR to $554 in 2019 requires an additional payment of $193,375 on 12-31-2019. ■ The Pre-82 payment for 12-31-2020 is $903,080. The funding of this payment shall come from the (1) direct invoicing of churches served by retired and supply clergy and (2) Wespath CPP Grant, (3)Leo Seal Funds, (4) Superanuate Fund accumulated earnings with any needed balance coming from current Pre-82 reserves. ■ The direct invoice rate and computation base for non-active pension plan clergy will be the same as charged to clergy in the active plans as described below. 2. MPP Program ■ There are no additional payments for 2020. 3. Funding for 2020 for Pension Programs that became effective 1-1-2014 ■ Full Time Clergy: The conference will cover all full-time clergy as defined by the 2016 Discipline under the Clergy Retirement Security Plan (CRSP). This plan provides a defined benefit and a defined contribution. The cost of this plan will be 15.50% billed to the salary paying entities. Below is the breakdown of the 15.50% billing rate. a. The defined benefit will be funded by billing the churches 9.25%. b. The CRSP defined contribution plan provides a 2% of plan compensation for each clergy. The clergy are given the opportunity to receive up to an additional 1% if they will contribute up to 1% of their plan compensation to their UMPIP account. The billing rate to fund this defined contribution will be 3% and any amount of the 1% not matched by a clergy will remain in the fund for reserves. c. The .25% shall continue to be billed to fund the reserve for the unpaid balances. d. Eligible clergy as defined by the Plan will be covered for the Comprehensive Protection Plan (CPP) welfare benefits of death and disability. The billing rate for this plan shall be 3%. e. The base on which the billing will be due shall be the total package of the clergy adjusted by a 25% increase of those clergy living in a United Methodist provided parsonage. ■ Less Than Full Time Clergy: Defined Contribution for those serving ¾ time shall be 9% and those serving ½ time or less shall be rate 6% a. The conference shall provide a 5.75% defined contribution to the UMPIP account of each active clergy serving less than full-time as defined above. b. There shall be an additional .25% billed to each church to provide funding for the unpaid balances of this conference plan. c. For clergy serving ¾ time, the Comprehensive Protection Plan (CPP) death and disability benefits are now available to them. The cost to the local church will be 3%. The definition of ¾ time is the same as for the health benefit coverage as defined below in the Health Benefits Program in item 2 below which states total compensation is 75% of the minimum salary for a Local Pastor as defined by the Equitable Compensation Commission 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 41

d. Prior to 2018 there was an additional billing of 2% to all churches served by clergy serving less than full-time to provide for future market declines in their CRSP plan for the period 1-1-2007 to 12-31-2013. The Board believes there continues to be adequate funds in reserve to cover any required payments. The Board will continue to review this percentage annually. e. The base for the compensation shall be the same as in 3 (e) above. This shall be funded by direct invoicing the amount to the local church served by the pastor. 4. Health Benefits Program a. The 2015 Annual Conference session approved moving over a 3 year period beginning in 2016 to a direct invoice method for the employer share of health benefits. Beginning in 2018 the full required amount was direct invoiced to all churches whose total compensation is 75% of the minimum salary for a Local Pastor as defined by the Equitable Compensation Commission. b. The 2019 rate was 11.0% and will be 10% 2020. The base on which the billing will be the same base used for the pension benefit billing. 5. Aggregate Billing Rates The Clergy Benefits will be invoiced in one statement. The aggregate rates for pension and health benefits are as follows: a. Full Time Clergy-Active, Retired and Supply 25.5% b. ¾ Time Clergy-Active, Retired and Supply 19% c. ½ Time Clergy-Active, Retired and Supply 6%

B. 2020 Budget Requests Detailed Budgets for Line Items as Referenced

SECTION 1: NUMBER 1 AVENUE OF GIVING Fund 1: World Service When United Methodist congregations pay their apportioned mission shares they participate in God’s work around the world and right in their own parish. The World Service Fund is the heart of our local churches’ ministry together. World Service is God’s people reaching out in love and compassion in the name of Christ. It represents a call and a challenge to each United Methodist. As The Book of Discipline 2016 states, the full payment of the World Service Fund is each congregation’s “first benevolent responsibility” (Paragraph 812). For 2017-2020, the four program areas’ primary focus is: 1. Calling and Shaping Principled Christian Leaders: Our 2020 Vision looks forward to a United Methodist Church creating a culture of call in every faith community, equipping leaders as they help shape disciples’ faith for the transformation of the world. 2. Creating and Sustaining New Places for New People: Our 2020 Vision looks forward to a United Methodist Church with 1,000,000 new disciples who profess their faith through renewed and new faith communities around the world. 3. Ministry with Poor People and Communities: Our 2020 Vision looks forward to a United Methodist Church with 400 vibrant, flourishing, and transforming communities addressing issues of poverty and ministry with the poor, particularly with children. 4. Abundant Health for All: Our 2020 Vision looks forward to a United Methodist Church that can reach 1 million children with life-saving interventions. We will be supporting this ministry through our General Church mission shares totaling $1,564,630. 42 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

SECTION 2: ANNUAL CONFERENCE EXTENDED MINISTRY Fund 2: Community Centers This apportioned mission share line item funds six community centers around the conference that provide vital ministry and service to children, youth, and adults. The centers serve the poor and disadvan- taged by offering affordable childcare, and after-school care and other children’s programs, training and educational opportunities, abuse prevention and intervention, summer enrichment, older adult services and other ministries. The Leadership Team through its Association of Mission Institutions and the Benevolence Sub Committee of CFA has oversight responsibility for this budget request. We will be supporting this ministry through our mission shares totaling $260,000.

■ Bethlehem Center, Jackson $ 30,000 ■ Edwards Street Community Center, Hattiesburg 36,000 ■ Good Shepherd Center, Vicksburg 60,000 ■ Moore Community House, Biloxi 40,000 ■ Saint Andrews Mission, McComb 40,000 ■ Wesley House, Meridian 54,000 Fund 4: Choctaw Mission The Choctaw Mission is an historic attempt to help meet the needs of the members of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. Since the Methodist presence among the Choctaw people in 1827, the Choctaw Mission has had spurts of progress and countless challenges over the years. With the three churches no longer under the umbrella of the Choctaw Mission, the purpose is to be a place for prophetic leadership, spiritual enrichment, educational and cultural preservation. Just as these grounds have been a haven for mind, body and spirit throughout its history, the Choctaw Mission will continue to minister to the needs of the communities, nurture spiritual growth, and provide training and leadership development to the communities. The Choctaw-based center is a sacred space honoring Choctaw culture, encouraging partnerships and providing Christ-centered programs to empower young people and inspire families by promoting both individual growth and collective enrichment for the people to live viable fruitful lives. In this new era, it is envisioned that the Choctaw Mission through its improved governance will create policies that will provide a healthy agency with progressive leadership. Operationally, we aspire to attain financial sustainability to support the efforts of the Choctaw Mission and make changes to the physical plant to provide new programs and enhance the existing programs. We will be supporting this ministry through our mission shares totaling $40,500. Fund 5: United Methodist Hour The mission of the United Methodist Hour is to, through media and technology, proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ and to resource the local church to live faithfully and boldly in the world. Core Values: 1. We believe in the Bible as the living breathing Word if God in action. 2. We believe that faith in Christ is sufficient for transforming lives, both present and eternal. 3. We believe in the promise and potential of the Local Church as the “hope for the world”. 4. We believe in the medium of technology as a means for reaching the unchurched, dischurched, and under-resourced with hope and a future. 5. We believe in the “servant life” as the hands and feet of Christ. 6. We believe in the unconditional love and forgiveness of God and in our responsibility to express that to the world. We will be supporting this ministry through our apportioned mission shares totaling $44,000. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 43

SECTION 3: MS CLERGY SUPPORT Fund 8: District Superintendent Fund The District Superintendent Fund provides salary for superintendents and reimbursable business expenses for in district and cabinet work for the 11 conference approved districts. The 2019 Salary level remained at the 2018 salary level which is $95,804. This budget allows for a salary increase for 2020 if the budget receipts will support one. If awarded, this will be the first increase for our superintendents since 1-1-2018. The salary increase will be determined by CFA in the fall of 2019 for 2020. We will be supporting this ministry through our mission shares totaling $1,825,000.

■ Salary for 11 District Superintendents $ 1,161,727 ■ Reimbursable Expenses 228,000 ■ Pension and Health Insurance 385,273 ■ Supervisory Fund 50,000 Fund 9: Spiritual Leadership and Related Items This primary task is for the enlistment and recruitment of ordained clergy and to credential such persons for ministry in the local church and beyond. The board cares for the needs of certified persons, diaconal ministers, local pastors, deacons, and elders. It shall, with the assistance of the local church committee on pastor-parish relations, conference agencies, and every ordained minister of the conference, enlist women and men of all races and ethnic origins and guide those persons in the process of education, training, and ordination, recommending colleges and schools of theology listed by the University Senate. A complete detailing of the board’s responsibilities is found in the 2016 Book of Discipline, ¶635.Another function of this area is for lay leadership and the laity ministry. We will be supporting this ministry through our mission shares totaling $583,485. a. Board Expenses $ 51,500 b. Conference Relations 43,700 c. Health & Wellness 77,000 d. Interviews 13,500 e. Pastoral Growth & Development 94,000 f. Resourcing the Connection 11,000 g. Vocational Call & Nurture 238,885 h. Moving Supplemental 12,000 i. Laity Ministry 39,900 j. Clergy Spouse - Turnaround Amount 2,000 Fund 10: Equitable Compensation This commission provides support for full-time clergy serving as pastors in the charges of the annual conference by: (a) recommending standards for pastoral support; (b) administering funds to be used in base compensation supplementation; and (c) providing counsel and advisory material on pastoral support to district superintendents and committees on pastor-parish relations. The commission in consultation with the Council on Finance and Administration recommends to the conference its estimate of the amount required to support the schedule of minimum base compensation and supplements for the pastors. These dollars represent support to many small churches with potential for growth and in missional areas. We will be supporting this ministry through our mission shares of $205,000. a. Salary Supplements $ 52,000 b. Ethnic Congregational/Mission Development 18,000 c. Unique Ministries Grants 75,000 d. Clergy Pension Benefit billing 49,000 e. Contingency 11,000 44 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

SECTION 4: MS CONFERENCE LEADERSHIP AND MINISTRY WORK AREAS Fund 11: Annual Conference Ministry of Administration The Annual Conference is given the responsibility to resource the local churches. The annual conference administration is responsible for the operation of the Conference Center, trustee matters, conference secretary, conference statistician, the Council on Finance and Administration, and funding the annual conference session. We will be supporting Administry work through our mission shares totaling $2,835,750. 2020 Budget Staff Compensation Conference Personnel Committee Salaries & Benefits $ 1,250,058 Expected Salary Reimbursements $ (79,509) CPC Personnel Salary $ 1,170,549 Staff Reimbursable Expenses $ 110,000 Total CPC Personnel $ 1,280,549 CFA Personnel Committee Salaries & Benefits $ 476,874 CFA Expected Salary Reimbursements $ (194,078) CFA Personnel Salary $ 282,796 Staff Reimbursable Expenses $ 40,000 Total CFA Personnel $ 322,796 Personnel Committees Total $1,603,345 Conference Office Expense Postage $ 13,000 Telephone $ 12,000 Office & Printing Supplies $ 43,000 Equipment Lease $ 42,000 Bank Service Charges $ 14,000 Dues $ 500 Audit Expense $ 50,000 FSA Administrative Fees $ 600 Software Maintenance & Upgrades $ 50,000 Equipment Replacement $ 15,000 Conference Office Expense Total $ 240,100 Conference Statistician Conference Statistician Honorarium $ 2,000 District Statisticians $ 1,600 Travel $ 980 Conference Statistician Total $ 4,580 Commission on Archives & History Travel $ 500 SEJ Archives And History Dues $ 200 SEJ Historical Society $ 100 Registration Fees $ 100 Tobias Gibson Award $ 100 Clipping Service $ 1,000 J.B. Cain Archives $ 23,750 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 45

Digitizing Conference Journal & Advocate $ 9,200 Conference Historian Expenses $ 1,550 Commission on Archives & History Total $ 36,500 Conference Administration Expense Legal Expenses $ 30,000 Memorials $ 1,000 CFA Expense $ 5,000 General & Jurisdictional Conference $ 14,000 Annual Conference Session $ 195,000 Contingency $ 500,000 Conference Administration Expense Total $ 745,000 Conference Property & Trustees Janitorial Service $ 10,000 Insurance $ 69,275 Utilities $ 31,500 Maintenance $ 30,000 Conference Property Trustees Meetings $ 2,500 Abandoned Property Expense $ 10,000 Major Repairs & Renovations $ 15,000 Conference Property & Trustees Total $ 168,275 Episcopal Residence GCFA Reimbursements $ (20,000) Insurance Expense $ 2,000 Repairs & Maintenance $ 16,750 Utilitie Allowance $ 6,250 Furnishings/Replacements $ 5,000 Episcopal Residence Total $ 10,000 Advocacy & Administrative Review Area Episcopacy Committee $ 1,000 Bishop Discretionary Fund $ 10,000 Advocacy: Christian Unity & Interreligious Concerns $ 3,250 Advocacy: Church & Society $ 3,200 Advocacy: Commission On Disabilities $ 1,000 Advocacy: Religion & Race $ 4,500 Advocacy: Status & Role of Women $ 4,000 Conference Administrative Review Committee $ 1,000 Advocacy & Administrative Review Area Total $ 27,950 Total Annual Conference Ministry Of Administration $2,835,750

Fund 12: Faith Community Formation New Faith Communities The Faith Community Formation Ministry Team (FCF) exists to transform the Mississippi Annual Conference to a culture of vitality by forming new faith communities and by revitalizing existing congregations. Statistics confirm that the best way “to make new disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world” is to start new faith communities for new people. Therefore, the FCFMT has set a goal of starting twenty new faith communities by 2020. This 20-20 vision is believed to be the best way to (1) counteract Mississippi Methodists’ decline and (2) reach the sixty-four percent of the Mississippi popula- 46 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) tion that has no significant involvement in a faith community. Therefore, the FCF is tasked to identify, assess, vet and equip qualified church planters who can start and grow new faith communities. Revitalization As disciples of Jesus Christ, Jesus extends the Great Commission to, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you” (Mt. 28:19-20a). The Great Commission requires disciples of Jesus Christ to go, to make, to baptize, and to teach others about the transformative love of Jesus Christ. In other words, disciples of Jesus are called to make disciples. Dr. Donald R. House, Chair of the Economic Advisory Committee for the General Council on Finance and Administration of the United Methodist Church, commissioned a study that finds that United Methodists are waning in their ability to fulfill the Great Commission. Dr. House’s study reveals that for the previous ten years, worship attendance in the United Methodist Church has decreased on average by 52,383 persons each year. Professions of faith have decreased by over 31 percent. By 2030, the United Methodist denomination in the United States will likely have declined to a point in which a turnaround is not possible. North American Methodists have been in decline since 1974, and by 2050 Dr. House projects that the Methodist connection will have collapsed if something does not change. Therefore, another emphasis of the FCF is to strengthen existing churches by helping them become vital congregations that make disciples for Jesus Christ. Of the 1,033 Methodist churches in Mississippi, 63% have not had a baptism in a given year. Thirty-two percent of Mississippi congregations have not had a baptism in five years. Along those lines, 63% of churches have not had a profession of faith in a given year, and 27% have not had a convert for Christ in the last five years. After Jesus extends clear instructions to go, to make, to baptize and to teach, he also extends a promise, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Mt. 28:19b). God is still at work in Mississippi. The task of the FCF is to partner with the movement of God’s Spirit in existing congregations and help them reclaim the transformative power of Jesus Christ. We will be supporting this Forming Faith Communities work through our mission shares totaling $600,000. Fund 13: Communications and Connectional Ministries The Office of Connectional Ministries focuses and guides the mission and ministry of The Mississippi Conference. This group is led by the Director of Connectional Ministries and Communications. Committees include: Mississippi Partnerships, (Millsaps College; Rust College; Wesley Pines Conference, Camping, and Retreat Center; Camp Lake Stephens; Seashore United Methodist Assembly; Gulfside Association, Inc.; Methodist Children’s Homes of Mississippi; Choctaw Mission; Good Shepherd Community Center, Inc.; Edwards Street Fellowship Center; Moore Community House; Wesley House Community Center, Inc.; Bethlehem Center, Inc.; St. Andrew’s Mission; United Methodist Hour), United Methodist Women, United Methodist Men, Church and Society, Board of Global Ministries (Missions, United Methodist Committee on Relief, United Methodist Volunteers in Mission, and Health and Welfare), Council on Youth Ministries and Commission on Communication. Other areas of care include: Congregations for Children, Personnel Committee, Journal, Resolutions and Petitions and Standing Rules. We will be supporting this ministry through our mission shares totaling $254,450. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 47

SECTION 5: UM METHODIST MINISTRY OF HIGHER EDUCATION Fund 14: Mississippi Campus Ministries The task of the Committee on Higher Education and Campus Ministry is to relate to the two United Methodist institutions of higher education in the Conference – Millsaps College and Rust College– and supervise and resource the program of Campus Ministry with students on the campuses of state-related universities and community colleges throughout Mississippi. Our committee’s role is to steward the vision and the resources of the Annual Conference, evaluate the effectiveness of our units and ministers, and make recommendations to the Bishop and Cabinet regarding deployment of personnel. The mission shares provide funding to supplement and enhance the Wesley Foundation Board’s fund raising efforts on as many of our college campuses as we can. At present, our ministry serves 24 public college and university campuses in the state of Mississippi as well as our two historic United Methodist institutions Rust and Millsaps Colleges. We provide financial resources, accountability, and training for campus ministers and local Wesley Foundation boards of directors. College is a time when persons are making significant life decisions in regard to their vocation, life goals, and guiding philosophy. It is essential that the church be involved in this process as well. We heartily affirm The 2016 Book of Discipline when it states that local churches and extension ministries provide the primary arena for disciple making. We realize that for many reasons persons in college feel disconnected from their church. Our Wesley Foundations serve as one of the extensions of the church’s ministry in an attempt to reach college students on their own terms during this crucial time in their life. We will be supporting this ministry with our mission shares totaling $850,000. a. Wesley Foundation Grants $ 650,000 b. Campus Ministry Consultant 40,000 c. Property Insurance 27,000 d. Training & Resources 30,000 e. Accounting Review of Wesley Units 3,000 f. Statewide Wesley Retreat 25,000 g. New Wesley Foundation Seed Money 75,000 Wesley Foundation Amounts of Grant Receiving Grants at 1-1-19 – 12-31-19

■ Alcorn State University $ 52,000 ■ Delta State University $ 57,300 ■ East Central Mississippi Community College $ 5,000 ■ East Mississippi Community College $ 5,000 ■ Hinds Community College - Raymond $ 10,000 ■ Itawamba Community College $ 50,000 ■ Jackson State University $ 45,000 ■ Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College $ 50,000 ■ Mississippi Gulf Coast CC -Jeff Davis Branch $ 2,200 ■ Mississippi Gulf Coast CC -USM Branch $ 2,200 ■ Mississippi State University $ 80,000 ■ Mississippi University for Women $ 50,000 ■ Mississippi Valley University $ 15,000 ■ Northeast Mississippi Community College $ 13,500 ■ Northwest Mississippi Community College $ 5,000 ■ University of Mississippi $ 73,000 ■ University of Southern Mississippi $ 60,000 48 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Fund 15: Ministerial Education Fund The Ministerial Education Fund was established by action of the 1968 General Conference as a means of engaging the total membership of the church in an effort to equip annual conference, theological schools, and the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry to meet the need for increased resources for the recruitment and education of persons for ordained ministry. Since 1976, programs related to both diaconal and ordained ministry have been eligible for funding. And, since 1996, programs related to recruitment and education of both deacons and elders have received support. Support is provided for the 13 United Methodist seminaries in the United States and global initiatives through GBHEM, as well as local pastor courses of study, continuing education, and other programs that strengthen the ministry of every local church. The 25% retained by each annual conference directly supports ministerial education in that conference. We will be supporting this ministry through our General Church mission shares totaling $526,055. Fund 16: Millsaps College Millsaps College is dedicated to academic excellence, open inquiry and free expression, the explora- tion of faith to inform vocation, and the innovative shaping of the social, economic, and cultural progress of our region. Building on its motto, Ad Excellentiam, its strong heritage of social justice, freedom of thought and reflection on life’s most important questions, and its central location in the capital city of Mississippi, Millsaps engages students in a transformative learning and leadership experience that results in personal and intellectual growth, commitment to good citizenship in our global society, and a desire to succeed and make a positive difference in every community they touch. The Millsaps Charter was granted in 1890 to the Mississippi and Northern Mississippi Methodist Conferences establishing Millsaps College with a commitment to “the poorer classes in the state.” Religious diversity is a foundational principle, with students of all denominations attending the College since its founding – living out the generosity among people of faith that John Wesley imagined when he said, “If thy heart is as my heart, then give me thy hand.” We will be supporting this ministry through our mission shares totaling $290,000. Fund 17: Black College Fund The 1972 General Conference established the Black College Fund as one of the apportioned general church funds. The objective of the fund is to provide financial support for institutions of higher education that historically served the educational needs of black students. More than $285 million has been raised since the fund was established to assist the programs and ministries of these schools. Our own Rust College is one of the recipients of these funds. We will be supporting this ministry through our General Church mission shares totaling $209,838. Fund 18: Rust College The primary mission of the Office of Religious Education is to be a dynamic diverse community of faith, supporting the entire Rust College family with a well-rounded program dedicated to teaching cultural, moral, and spiritual values in both theory and practice. Our primary vision is to be a historically Black senior liberal arts college, related to the United Methodist Church, serving students, faculty, staff, and administration regardless of race, religion, gender, socio-economic status, national origin, or ethnic background. Therefore, our primary goal is to provide sacred space where the entire Rust College family can be fellow travelers on a journey of faith that leads to transformation of the individual and the world. Founded in 1866 by the Freedman’s Aid Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church, “Rust was the first to give some learning unto those who were set free.” With the same passionate commitment of our founding ancestors, Rust today strives for excellence as we prepare “Tomorrow’s leaders who are students today” so that “By their fruits ye shall now them.” Consequently, in the Wesleyan tradition we use scripture, 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 49 tradition, reason, and experience to constantly operate in a philosophy of relevance, change, and adapta- tion. With consistency we embrace the idea from Revelation, “See, I am making all things new.” We are blessed to be used by the Lord to help people press on toward the higher calling that leads to transformation of the world in the name of Jesus Christ. We will be supporting this ministry through our mission shares totaling $145,000. Fund 19: Africa University Fund The 1988 General Conference approved a report of GBHEM providing for the establishment of a United Methodist university on the continent of Africa. By the time the 1992 General Conference convened, Africa University was a reality following the granting of a charter by the government of Zimbabwe. On March 23, 1992 the College of Theology and the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources opened on a site near Old Mutare to 40 students from Burundi, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Congo, and Zimbabwe. We will be supporting this ministry through our General Church mission shares totaling $46,961. SECTION 6: MS CAMPING AND RETREAT CENTERS Fund 20: Camp Lake Stephens Camp Lake Stephens, a United Methodist Camp and Retreat Center, is committed to being a place where children, youth, and adults can encounter God and respond in faith to God’s call to transform the world. When many people think about camp, they think about camp being a great place where children and youth can have fun. Camp is definitely a place for children and youth to have fun, but it is so much more. Camp Lake Stephens is a sacred place! A place where you can have fun, meet new people, learn about yourself, and a place you can encounter God. The apportioned mission shares provide about 8% of the total budget supporting operating expenses of the camp ministry and will primarily be used to support the salary expenses for the full time employees. We will be supporting this ministry through our mission shares totaling $140,000. Fund 21: Camp Wesley Pines The original intent for Wesley Pines 56 years ago was to be a camp whose mission was to invest in the lives of youth and children. As stated on the investment bonds of this new Methodist 55 acre camp at Gallman, MS, was that by God’s grace and through this camp “….eternal dividends are to be paid in good fellowship, personal satisfaction, and genuine Christian growth” and that it would be celebrated by every person that would come to this new camp. Today, the vision and mission has not changed, it simply has expanded. The official name, Wesley Pines Conference, Camping and Retreat Center, reflects the broadening of vision and mission. Although the purpose has not changed, the vision and mission is always being refined and expanded. This past spring and summer, we celebrated over 1000 persons enjoying the Wesley Pines experience. During the summer camping program, over 450 of our youth/children made a profession of faith and/or a rededica- tion of their life to Christ. The Board believes that part of our mission and vision in this special place of peace and tranquility, is to grow disciples for Jesus Christ. At Wesley Pines, there are many opportunities for quiet reflection, spiritual growth, and meaningful worship. We will continue work on our prayer trail and add scripture markers along the way. We will continue to up-grade one of the finest ropes courses around with the spiritual application of each event being posted near it. And, we continue to promote and encourage our children and youth’s attendance in summer camping, confirmation retreats, and spiritual renewal events planned for them. We will be supporting this ministry through our mission shares totaling $140,000. 50 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Fund 22: Seashore Assembly The ministry of Seashore United Methodist Assembly (SUMA) is designed to create an atmosphere and program that fosters spiritual growth and empowerment cross-generationally which will lead to spiritual wholeness through seminars and/or retreats. Our mission is to provide a Christian Center for learning, growth, and renewal. The vision of SUMA is for individuals, families, and groups who, because they have been touched by the redeeming love of Christ, are at peace with God, themselves, others, and all of God’s creation, and thus empowered to live in God’s will. The ministry shall emphasis education, spiritual development, and renewal, emotional rehabilitation and recreation for individuals, clergy/spouse, single parents and/ or families. Programming implemented at SUMA shall be in keeping the Mississippi United Methodist Conference’s Core Values of Love, Generosity, Justice, and Apprenticeship. We will Live Out the Power of WE. We will be supporting this ministry through our mission shares totaling $128,000. Fund 23: Gulfside Association, Inc. Gulfside Association, INC is located in Waveland, Mississippi. The Gulfside ministry is unique because since 1923 Gulfside Association, INC has been and still is an institution designed for and committed to the commemoration of the contribution and heritage of Blacks in the historical Wesleyan tradition. Gullfside advocates for diversity and cultural development of all God’s people across the church. Gulfside values their heritage and legacy. They also value and practice Christian principles, spiritual development, renewal, and re-creation. They value human dignity and justice for all God’s people. Their vision is a caring community where all God’s people are transformed by the love of Christ. Gulfside provides facilities and programs that further the development of ministries to the whole person through education, spiritual nurture, and family support for all ages. We will be supporting this ministry through our mission shares totaling $40,000.

SECTION 7: MINISTRY BEYOND THE LOCAL CONFERENCE GENERAL/JURISDICTIONAL CONFERENCES Fund 24: Episcopal Fund The Episcopal Fund, raised in accordance with paragraph 817.3 shall provide for the salary and expenses of bishops from the date of their consecration and for the support of retired bishops and surviving spouses and minor children of deceased bishops. This support includes moving cost, health insurance, pensions and residences. The Episcopal Fund provides funding to all conferences for the operation of the Episcopal Area offices and partial funding for the Episcopal Residence. We will be supporting this ministry through our General Church mission shares totaling $461,242. Fund 25: General Administration Fund The General Administration Fund (paragraph 813) finances those general church agencies that are specifically administrative as contrasted with programmatic, missional, or ecumenical. The General Fund provides interpretation resources and the quadrennial general conference. Funding for General Council on Finance and Administration, General Commission on Archives and History, and Judicial Council is provided by these funds. We will be supporting this ministry through our General Church mission shares totaling $184,942. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 51

Fund 26: Southeastern Jurisdiction Programming The Mississippi Conference and 14 other conferences make up the Southeastern Jurisdiction. At the 2016 conference, the 2017-2020 budget was again cut in more than half of the 2012-2016 budget because the agencies of the jurisdiction have become self-supporting programmatically. The 2016 SEJ Conference passed a budget of $1,774,000. The quadrennial share for Mississippi is $97,396. We will be supporting this ministry through our Jurisdiction mission shares totaling $10,000. Fund 27: Interdenominational Cooperation Fund The Interdenominational Cooperation Fund provides basic support for ecumenical agencies through which the United Methodist Church participates in God’s mission in cooperation with other Christian communions. We will be supporting this ministry through our General Church mission shares totaling $41,141.

C. Board of Trustees

A. Conference-Owned Property The Conference Trustees are entrusted with the care of all property that is in the service of the annual conference as a whole. These properties in Jackson consist of the Conference Center on Briarwood Drive and the Episcopal Residence in Jackson. There are two permanent buildings constructed by the recovery efforts. They are owned by the conference and were built on land contractually leased for 35 years from Vancleave UMC and Nugent UMC. Now that the Katrina recovery efforts are complete, the buildings are being used by those local churches where the property was constructed. In the event of a future recovery need, the property by contractual lease will revert to those recovery efforts. B. Conference Center The Conference Center move to the Briarwood UMC location has proven to be a very good decision. Adequate space for meetings and parking has facilitated committee meetings. The building is in good repair and cost of operation has not significantly increased given the additional footage and lawn acreage. C. Episcopal Residence The Episcopal Residence is in good repair. A new roof was installed in 2013 and all windows were replaced in the spring of 2015. The Trustees are working very closely with the Episcopacy Committee to maintain the residence is good repair and comfortable for the Episcopal family. D. Insurance All properties of the conference insured under the conference-wide insurance program are properly insured. The Conference Trustees are making extensive efforts to insure the adequacy of the conference- wide insurance program so that the local church trustees are able to meet their fiduciary and Disciplinary responsibilities regarding the local church’s coverage. The Trustees believe the conference as a whole is better protected as a result of the minimum coverage standards adopted in 2004 and the conference- wide program adopted in 2005. A. J. Gallagher Risk Management located in Ridgeland, MS continues to provide the program administration and risk management services for the conference-wide program. The conference-wide program is financially stable and continues to insure 843 entities with a total insured value of $869,289,015. The churches that are not insured by the conference-wide insurance program shall be required to submit by January 31 of each year a copy of their current policy proving that they are in compliance with the minimum coverage standards described in E. below. To provide protection for the conference and all of the churches of the conference, churches not in the conference wide program shall list the Mississippi Conference United Methodist Church as an additional insured on their policy. It shall be the responsibility of the treasurer’s office to receive and track all of this information. 52 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

E. Minimum Coverage Standards The required levels of insurance approved at the 2004 Annual Conference are as follows: 1. Pastoral Professional Liability Limit Each Claim / Annual Aggregate $1,000,000 / $3,000,000 2. Directors and Officers Liability – Claims Made Coverage Limit Each Claim / Annual Aggregate $1,000,000 / $1,000,000 3. Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability (limit per accident) Leased Vehicles / Hired and Non-Owned Vehicles $1,000,000 4. Physical or Sexual Abuse Liability (Sexual acts liability) $1,000,000 5. Commercial Automobile Liability Church Owned Vehicles $1,000,000 6. Volunteer Liability Church Members With Respect to Duties As Such $1,000,000 7. General Liability $1,000,000 / $3,000,000 F. Records and Legal Documents The legal documents and records are held in the office of the treasurer of the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church. Copies of all deeds to church property are to be collected during the charge conference by the District Superintendents and are to be placed in the permanent files of the treasurer’s office. After a review of the deeds of the local church property, the trustees have found that the Trust Clause required by the 2016 Discipline has been omitted in some of the deeds. The Trustees of the Mississippi Annual Conference and the Annual Conference session go on record stating that even in cases where the clause has been omitted, either purposely or inadvertently, the clause is presumed to be in place due to the fact that the church congregation located on the property has functioned as a United Methodist Church based on, but not limited to the following: ■ The church has received and compensated a United Methodist pastor assigned by the Bishop and Cabinet. ■ The church has participated in the mission and ministry of the United Methodist Conference through mission shares, direct invoice, ministry, and mission activities. ■ The church has had the opportunity to participate in and benefit through the Conference Wide Insurance Program. ■ The church has provided pension and health benefits to its eligible pastors when the pastor was eligible for such benefits. ■ The church has held or has intended to hold worship and education activities in the locations acting as a congregation of the United Methodist Church. G. Debt on Conference Property There is no debt on any of the conference owned property. H. Relationship Statement In compliance with paragraph 2517 of the 2016 Discipline, the Annual Conference Trustees are to enter into covenant through a relationship statement for those organizations who use the official United Methodist insignia or the term “United Methodist” in its name, mission statement, publications, or promotional or marketing material. The trustees have renewed the majority of the Relationship Statements in the 2017-2018 conference year. The statements are on file in the Conference Treasurer’s Office. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 53

I. Cumulative Listing of Preaching Stations and Limited Service Chapels The Conference Trustees have received the appropriate paperwork on the following list of approved Preaching Stations and Limited Service Chapels as of June 30, 2019. Preaching Stations 1061 Pleasant Ridge Copiah County 5100 Daleville 1072 St James Bridgeville 5141 Union 1131 White’s Chapel 5223 Pleasant Valley 1140 Bayliss Chapel 5550 Porterville 1222 Natchez: St John’s 6250 Pleasant Hill-Iuka 1250 Gallman 7510 Merrill Chapel Poplarville 1260 Georgetown 7600 Tanners Chapel 1261 Providence 8041 Fountainhead 1305 Hopewell Wilkerson 8160 Eudora 1460 Mt Carmel Wilkinson County 8290 Lula 1500 New Fork UMC 9241 New Light 2202 Mars Hill 9331 Chapel Hill UMC (McCool) 2220 Forest Grove 9491 Piney Jordan UMC 3111 Wesley Mound Bayou 10041 Ebenezer 3321 Spring Hill 10131 Evergreen 3330 John Wesley Durant 10204 Wesley Chapel 3371 Isola 10280 Okolona First 3470 Drew Beasley UMC 10353 Pleasant Grove 4011 Ovett UMC 10491 Grady Chapel 4020 L L Roberts-Bassfield 11161 Bentonia 4071 State Line 11171 Pleasant Hill Yazoo City 4115 Dudley Chapel 11381 Hermanville 4290 Kingston UMC 11421 Goodman Memorial-Cary 4411 Leaf 11530 St John’s UMC Yazoo City 4631 Old Bay Springs Limited Service Chapels 3283 Gore Springs 9592 Chapel Hill 7131 Wesley Chapel – Poplarville 11512 Lynch Chapel – Vicksburg 9512 Mt. Moriah Reverend Dr. Tim Prather, Chair David Stotts, CPA Conference Treasurer/Director of Finance & Administration

D. Board of Pensions Report #1 Funding Paragraph 1507 (2) of the 2016 Discipline states “the Council on Finance and Administration shall report to the annual conference the amounts computed by the board that are required to meet the needs of the pension, benefit and relief programs of the conference.” This report is found in Report #3 in the Council on Finance and Administration report. Pension Benefits and Liaison Offices The work of the Board of Pensions is carried out through David Stotts, the Conference Benefits Officer, who is also the Conference Treasurer. Working in the Conference Benefits Office is the Benefits Administrator, Sheila P. Owens; Benefits Liaison Officer, Andy Ray; and Benefits Liaison Officer Emeritus, Byrd Hillman. The Conference Benefits Office interfaces with Wespath Benefits/Investments 54 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

(formerly the General Board of Pension and Health Benefits) and assists the Bishop and Cabinet in pension matters. The office is also available to assist participants with questions that relate to pensions and health benefits. The benefits officer can be contacted through the conference treasurer’s office at 601-354-0515, or 866-647-7486 or at 320-A Briarwood Drive, Jackson, Mississippi 39206. Unfunded Liability Virtually all of the United Methodist clergy appointed by the Mississippi Annual Conference prior to 1982 are covered by Supplement One to the Ministerial Pension Plan. All assets of the plan are available to pay all benefits of the plan regardless of the annual conference from which contributions came or under which the benefits accrued. However, because each annual conference controls certain benefit provisions of the plan, funding requirements are determined separately for each conference. Each year the Actuarial Department of Wespath Benefits/Investments values the benefits provided under the plan and reviews our conference funding plan. The opinion of Wespath Benefits/Investments on the conference funding plan may will be in the 2019 Journal under the conference Board of Pension report #4. The funding plan may be read in its entirety in the Conference Benefits Office. Our liability increases when we increase the past service rate, and we reduce our liability when we make annual payments in accordance with our funding plan. Actuarial experience and investment performance are factors in this computation. Investment performance during the past year has challenged money managers to review long-term strategies. Your Board of Pension is studying various plans to maximize return on invested funds. The revised plans will acknowledge reduced rates of returns for the short-term. The Board is recommending the PSR for 2020 to be $566. Payment for that increase must be paid on December 31, 2019. The Report #3 of the Council on Finance and Administration shows where the funding will come from to provide for the increase. The Board will continue to review the level of the PSR determining future funding needs for any proposed increases and report these needs to the Conference Council on Finance and Administration. Funding for Pension Plan Must Be Paid in Full Each pastor and each church must understand the necessity of paying the Clergy Pension Benefit billing in full each year. The text of The 2016 Discipline paragraph 639 (4) a and b states. 4. Proportional Payment - The board shall compare the records of the amounts paid by each pastoral charge for the support of pastors and for pension and benefit programs, computing the proportional distribution thereof and keeping a permanent record of defaults of the churches of the conference that have failed to observe the following provisions pertaining to proportional payment, and shall render annually to each church that is in default a statement of the amounts in default for that and preceding years. a) When the apportionment to the pastoral charge for the pension and benefits program of the annual conference has been determined, payments made thereon by each pastoral charge shall be exactly proportionate to payments made on the salary or salaries of the ordained minister or clergy serving it. b) The treasurer of the pastoral charge shall be primarily responsible for the application of proportional payment; but in the event of the treasurer’s failure to apply it, the pastor shall adjust cash salary and payment according to the proper ratio, as provided above, before the pastor enters the respective amounts in the statistical repost to the annual conference. The annual conference must fund the retirement payments to clergy. Surviving spouses and dependent children of deceased clergy may also be a recipient of benefits. The Conference Board of Pensions in their April 2019 meeting received a report of arrearages in 2010 through 2019 Clergy Benefit invoicing. This information was forwarded to each district and may be seen in the following Report #5. Unpaid balances carry forward each year. It is the plan of the Conference Board of Pensions to keep careful records of non-payment and to contact district superintendents where this has occurred. An aggressive plan for collection has been provided to the Conference Benefits Office 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 55 and the plan shall be followed. Arrearage information will be available for review in the Conference Benefits Office at the end of any month. Conference Action Requested for Past Due Direct Invoices The Board believes strongly that the benefits cost must be paid in accordance with The 2016 Book of Discipline. It is the recommendation of the Board that no raise be offered to or accepted by a pastor who is serving a church with a past due balance in the direct invoice plan. The Board asks the 2019 Annual Conference to go on record concurring with this recommendation. The Board requests that the 2019 Annual Conference go on record recommending that the funds received from a church that is merging or closing be first applied to the unpaid direct invoices of the church. Investments The money of the Conference Board of Pension is invested with the Mississippi United Methodist Foundation, Hancock Bank, and Wespath Benefits/Investments. All of our investments are made with the consent of the conference board. The operating account is at Trustmark National Bank. At year-end, we had general funds of $1,073,807 at Trustmark National Bank, $1,473,829 invested with Wespath Benefits/Investments, Superannuate funds of $1,178,354 invested at Wespath Benefits/ Investments, $2,337,490 CRSP and Pre-82 Funds invested at the Mississippi UM Foundation, and $979,509 invested in the Leo Seal Fund at the Hancock Bank. Minister’s Personal Contributions Each minister is given the opportunity to participate in the United Methodist Personal Investment Plan (UM PIP) of Wespath Benefits/Investments. Ministers can decide how much they want to invest each month. It can be tax paid or tax deferred. The minister may choose one of two ways to contribute the money: (1) salary reduction – The check must be sent by the church treasurer in order to qualify, and it should be so stated to Wespath Benefits/Investments. The amount is to be deducted from the W-2 form, and Social Security is not paid on this amount; the amount is not subject to income tax until withdrawn. (2) tax paid – Under this plan, the minister must pay income tax on the amount contributed but will not pay tax on interest received until it is withdrawn. A Roth option is also available. If a minister moves he/she must make a new contract with the new church for his/her UM PIP and report it to Wespath Benefits/Investments. The Conference Board highly encourages every full-time participant to participate in UMPIP up to 1% so as to receive the matching portion of up to 1% of the CRSP defined contribution. Retired Ministers Rental/housing allowances. A resolution in regard to a rental/housing allowance has been prepared for action at this session of annual conference. Each retired minister is requested to study this resolution carefully. Let it also be emphasized that adequate records must be kept in order to justify expenses claimed. Should a retired minister die during the year, exclusion for rental/housing allowance is available with respect to the income of the minister during the time he or she was alive. However, the exclusion is not available to the surviving spouse. Moving Expense The Board has recommended to the Council on Finance and Administration that the moving expense for retirees moving to their retirement home be paid based on the guidelines that have been recommended by CFA. Conference Authorization It is the policy of the Conference Board of Pension, through its treasurer, to place with Wespath Benefits/Investments or the Mississippi United Methodist Foundation such funds as it receives from time to time. Such funds are to be invested in Wespath Benefits/Investments or the Mississippi United 56 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Methodist Foundation for the use and benefit of said conference Board of Pension, to transfer among accounts an amount required for the monthly and annual payments to Wespath Benefits/Investments for the cost of our pension program. Education Programs on Pensions We encourage districts to initiate programs for education on the pension plans. The conference Board of Pension will be glad to arrange programming and education events to district ministers and their spouses, and to any called meeting of ministers and laypersons. Adequate time for full presentation and questions should be allowed. Contact the Conference Benefits Office to arrange one of these meetings. On August 19-20, 2019 we plan to offer the 3 “L” Academy again. This education event was started in 2009. The event will be highlighting (1) structuring the salary compensation package, (2) explanation of the available retirement plans, (3) workshops for those contemplating retirement within the next 5 - 7 years, (4) a lifetime planning seminar for interested pastors and their spouses and (5) various other information on connectional giving, stewardship, and wellness. This event will be in Jackson with speakers coming from Wespath Benefits/Investments, various general church agencies and other local resources. The conference benefits officer will continue to offer a one day meeting to offer assistance to those retiring in the current year with their forms. Information regarding health insurance opportunities and other assistance will also be discussed. This is a very helpful forum and will also be offered in April of 2020. Wespath Benefits/Investments will again provide an educational session, revitup, in the fall for the young clergy. The Conference board will offer scholarships for our clergy under 40. Gifts and Wills In 2009, the Board was notified of the inclusion of the pension program in the Leo Seal Trust. Since 2009, $810,516 has been received and is in the Hancock Bank. The original purpose of the gift was for building and equipment. The board has received approval from the court system and trustee for the interest on the endowment fund to be transferred annually to the conference board of pension in an effort to begin to reduce the amount of the funding requirements. The conference Board of Pension has designated these funds including the earnings to be for the unfunded Pre-82 liability. Social Security for Ministers Social Security is a vital part of a minister’s financial plan. This gives protection for retirement, disability, and survivor benefits, as well as Medicare. If a minister has any questions related to his/her relationship to social security, please contact your local social security office. “O For A Thousand” Program At the 2010 Annual Conference, the “O For A Thousand” program was announced. The purpose of this program and fund was to provide funding for the unfunded liability of the Pre-82 program. The Board hopes that all churches either as a church or as groups in the church will fund “O For A Thousand.” Pension Liability for Churches that are Closing, being Abandonded or Choosing to Leave the Denomination The Mississippi Annual Conference Board of Pensions (CBOP) remind the Conference Negotiation Team and Conference Trustees that, in the sale and disposition of discontinued, abandonded, and disaf- filiated local church property (real, personal and intangible property) the 2019 General Conference called session added paragraphs to the Discipline for these situations. 2019 General Conference directed that a pension penalty be assessed in these situations. These funds are to be added to the conference Board of Pension reserves so that the mandatory clergy retirement (pension) plans (the liabilities for which the Annual Conference is responsible) and other Conference liabilities (e.g., retiree medical coverage, etc.) are funded. Additions to the Discipline provided an equitable remedy for the following facts. (1) The clergyperson surrendering their credentials for any was originally vested in his or her accrued pension benefit- which had to be paid in accordance with the plan documents, referenced in 2016 Discipline ¶1504.1 The 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 57 liabilities for which are borne by the Annual Conference. (2) The Annual Conference retained market risk and longevity risk for these promised benefits, as though it were a commercial insurer of an annuity payment. This was amended so that the clergy person will receive a payout valued on the market basis. John Brian Jones, Chairperson David Stotts, CPA Conference Benefits Officer

Report #2 Conference Board Of Pension Budget 2019 Budget 2020 Budget Receipts: Clergy Benefit Invoices for Pension $ 4,378,833 $ 4,444,515 Pre 82 Mission Share Funding $ 399,807 $ - Direct Invoices for Pre 82 $ 262,839 $ 266,782 Direct Invoices for Less Than Full Time $ 181,730 $ 184,456 Leo Seal Trust Disbursements $ 100,000 $ 100,000 Other Interest $ 50,000 $ 50,000 General Sef Distribution $ 13,000 $ 13,000 Interest on Pre 82 Funds $ 40,000 $ 40,000 Interest on Superannuate Endowment $ 50,000 $ 50,000 Interest Gifts from Various Trusts $ 3,000 $ 3,000 Gifts to Pre 82 Liability-O For A Thousand $ 5,000 $ 5,000 Chartered Fund Distribution $ 350 $ 350 Gain On DIF and MAS Accts Including Interest $ 8,500 $ 8,500 Hancock Bank (Gain/(Loss) $ 60,000 $ 60,000 CPP Grant from Wespath $ 896,357 $ - Gifts to Endowment Fund $ 1,000 $ 1,000 Total Receipts $ 6,450,416 $ 5,226,603 Disbursements: Cost Of Pension Benefits CRSP-DB $ 2,326,701 $ 2,169,333 Pre 82 Payment $ 1,284,697 $ 903,080 CPP $ 896,357 $ 909,802 CRSP-DC $ 537,324 $ 545,384 CRSP-DC-1% Match $ 233,196 $ 236,694 Pre 82 PSR Increase Advanced Payment $ 193,375 $ 200,000 DC for Less Than Full Time $ 181,730 $ 184,456 Subtotal Cost of Pension Benefits $ 5,653,380 $ 5,148,749 Operating Expenses Salaries and Benefits $ 86,500 $ 87,798 3 “L” Academy $ 25,000 $ 25,000 Office Expense $ 10,000 $ 10,000 Liasion Contractual Arrangements $ 6,000 $ 6,000 RevItUp Young Clergy Event $ 12,000 $ 12,000 Professional Fees $ 11,500 $ 11,500 Travel Meals Meetings $ 15,000 $ 20,000 Annual Conf. Retirees Luncheon $ 13,000 $ 13,000 Bank Charges $ 5,100 $ 5,100 Payment to Dependent Children $ 530 $ 530 58 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

2019 Budget 2020 Budget Operating Expenses, continued... Grave Markers $ 5,000 $ 5,000 Per Diem Annual Conf-Surviving Spouses $ 2,500 $ 2,500 Dues $ 125 $ 125 Subtotal Operating Expenses $ 192,255 $ 198,553 Total Disbursements $ 5,845,635 $ 5,347,302 Net Receipts Over (Disbursements) $ 604,781 $ (120,699) Report #3 Board of Pensions Item No. 1 Following are the conference claimants for the death benefits for the 2018-2019 year updated as of May 6, 2019. A full report for the conference year will be presented in the Conference Journal: Minister of Conference Date of Death Doyle L. Moore June 5, 2018 Dalmer L. Blackman July 21, 2018 Clarence C. Koskie August 8, 2018 Thomas F. Cupit August 25, 2018 Louis Paul Linton September 18, 2018 James F. Mcree October 20, 2018 Don L. Sampley October 23, 2018 William Vance Kemp November 2, 2018 Leslie Farrell Mills November 14, 2018 Scarlet R. Shepperd November 16, 2018 John M. Case November 30, 2018 Franklin Lamar Boyd December 4, 2018 Roy Dean McAlilly December 20, 2018 Joseph Hicks January 17, 2019 Joseph Lex Stone January 17, 2019 Paul Carl Burke January 20, 2019 Claude Douglas Phillips February 27,2019 D. Wayne Taylor February 27, 2019 George B. Butler April 16, 2019 Charles Edward Wash Sr. May 5, 2019 Prentiss M. Gordon Sr. May 6, 2019 Deceased Spouses minister of Conference Date of Death Bertie Jeter Doc Jeter May 26,2018 Sara Nell Poole William J. Poole June 16, 2018 Erna M. Landrum Hollis T. Landrum June 30, 2018 Arva W. Pigott Wilton Dupree Pigott July 5, 2018 Anne B. Winstead Henry G. Winstead, Jr. September 30, 2018 Charlotte A. Lamb Aaron Lamb November 11, 2018 Gladys Lee Spencer Edwin Ayers Spencer, Jr. November 27, 2018 Ruth T. Lewis Donald Duncan Lewis December 6, 2018 Jewel Aloe Scarbrough Bryan T. Scarbrough December 18, 2018 Billie Jeanne Anding Robert E. Anding December 26, 2018 Minnie B. Hill H. C. Hill January 26, 2019 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 59

Deceased Spouses minister of Conference Date of Death Bobbie N. Johnson Reynolds F. Johnson February 19, 2019 Shirley Busby Leslie Darrell Busby Februry 25, 2019 Mary Cumberland Lonnie A. Cumberland March 16, 2019 Item No. 2 Disability income and renewal of disability income are granted only if disability benefits are approved from the Comprehensive Protection Plan (CPP) by the General Board of Pensions. Medical leave and disability income was granted to the following: Larry Darnell Bolton Brenda McCaskill (1-1-19) Thomas Randall Leon Cooper Oscar McGough Thomas Lionel Samson Fredrick Leon Gerber James Morris Ronald Schwake Phillip Heidelberg Deborah Mingo Palmer Kevin Yearber Randy James Donald L. Patterson William G. Joyner Jeffrey G. Pruett

Item No. 3 The Board of Pensions recommends that the following dependent adult children of deceased ministers be granted a child’s benefit based upon the pension credit of the minister: Child Minister Years Beulah Irving William R. Irving 4.75 Item No. 4 The following ministers serving in Extension Ministries in 2018-2019 served with pension responsibility on the conference: Stephen Cook Ricky Haynes Lindsey Robinson Cynthia A. Cross Larry Hilliard Connie M. Shelton Dayna Goff Embra Knox Jackson, II Timothy Charles Thompson, II Trey Harper Stephen Keen Victoria L. White Elizabeth Raigan Miskelly Item No. 5 The following ministers serving in Extension Ministries in 2018-2019 served with pension responsibility on the institution or agency served: Terri K. Armstrong Hugh Milton Griffith, Jr. Paige Swaim Presley Loye B. Ashton Hubert Dale Hathorn Joseph T. Ranager Michael Ray Baker Richard Michael Hicks Joseph T. Reiff Dorothy Claire Biedenharn Sherry Bryant Johnson Christine Brooking Richardson Diane L. Braman Kevin Kosh Joseph Shelton Alice Carol Burnett Walter N. Leverette Kristen Williams Johnny Crosby Gerald Liu Earl Wilson, III Charlene Cheney Toby Eugene Lofton William Edward Willis Dorothy Dickson-Rishel Earl McAnally J. Daniel Young Stephanie Foretich-McKey Reed McCaleb Elisabeth Ann Garvin Thomas Emory Miller

Item No. 6 For clergy in Extension Ministry, the pension responsibility lies with the salary-paying institution or agency. If the appointment’s salary support is paid by the conference, then the pension responsibility belongs to the conference. If the appointment’s salary support is paid by the institution or agency, then the pension responsibility belongs to the salary-paying unit. Note that ministers who are serving in an 60 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Extension Ministry must assume responsibility to see that their pension is being cared for. The Board of Pension has entered into agreements with those extensions ministries who desire to cover their clergy by CRSP. The cost shall be paid by the extension ministry. Item No. 7 Annuity payments related to pre-1982 service in the Mississippi Annual Conference have been reviewed and have been found to be accurate. A copy of the detailed report has been filed with the Conference Benefits Officer, David Stotts, and is available for review upon request. John Brian Jones, Chairperson David Stotts, CPA Conference Benefits Officer Report #4 2020 Comprehensive Benefit Funding Plan (Full report will be on file in the conference benefits office)

E. Board of Medical Benefits 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 61

Report #5 Following are the past due Clergy Pension invoices as of 12-31-2018 (*Churches that have entered in to Grant/Payment Plan)

District Church # And Name Balance District Church # And Name Balance 1010 Adams $1,258.75 4041 Mount Zion (Bay Springs) $2,496.34 1020 Brandywine $9.00 4042 Spring Hill (Montros $8,566.20 1060 Bethesda (Copiah County) $979.92 4052 Holders (Closed 09/30/2018) $4,077.32 1070 Little Rock $1,844.00 4070 Buckatunna $596.26 1200 Ebenezer $398.40 4071 Stateline (Pr. Station 8/31/18) $149.20 1211 Community $1,299.96 4090 Clara $822.44 1220 Adams Chapel $30.00 4101 Eminence $100.00 1230 Felder $4,173.76 4115 Dudley Chapel (Pr. Sta 10/1/18) $2,589.85 1270 Gloster $12,712.50 4171 Hattiesburg: Grandview $307.82 1291 Gallatin $109.35 4230 Hebron (Soso) $4,390.87 1292 St Morris $12,255.88 4381 Maxie (Discontinued 9/30/2018) $1,808.18 1315 Kokomo $90.00 4390 James Chapel $32.16 1320 Lampton: New Zion $11,200.68 4391 St James $19.50 1321 St Paul $2,018.68 4421 Moody’s Chapel $3,139.55 1341 Cane Ridge $380.00 4430 McLaurin $24,491.02 1370 Magnolia: St James $372.90 4440 Montrose $4,266.00 1502 Thirkield $3,466.25 4441 Garlandville $4,532.40 1510 New Hebron $395.00 4540 Philadelphia (Jasper County) $2,277.35 1610 St Paul (Franklin County) $6,435.96 4620 Seminary $7,292.01 1620 Summit $540.00 4631 Old Bay Springs Pr. Sta. 6/30/18 $1,435.38 1650 Brandon Bay $200.00 4681 Mount Zion (Waynesboro) $9,838.34 2202 Mars Hill (Pr. Sta. 12/18/2018) $1,281.43 4682 Pleasant Ridge $10,308.32 2261 Brandon:Trinity $3,533.32 4683 St Luke $389.03 2280 Holly Bush $2,318.76 4701 Lone Star $165.00 2351 Union Grove $200.00 5026 James Chapel $726.00 2370 Madden $329.93 5090 Coy Umc $1,274.56 2442 New Chapel $62.16 5180 Elizabeth $3,103.20 2520 Raleigh: First $50.00 5230 Lake Central $2,338.66 2530 Rexford $66.00 5232 Union Chapel $1,527.18 2540 Rials Creek $3,018.83 5251 Mellen $392.19 2601 Bethel $302.76 5330 Meridian: Haven Chap $1,541.35 3010 Acona $1,192.56 5370 Cornerstone (Closed 2016 Annual 3030 Barwick $192.00 Conference) $13,807.27 3070 Binford Chapel $17,304.00 5400 St Elizabeth $6,212.01 3121 Midway $6,224.61 5442 John Memorial $240.00 3161 Ebenezer: Mt. Zion $36.00 5452 Stallo $700.30 3170 Galilee Treadwell $1,818.78 5511 Mt. Zion (Philadelphia) $326.56 3231 Jones Chapel $334.01 5560 Macedonia $1,300.18 3280 Grenada: Grace $22,879.99 5561 New Bethlehem $80.04 3290 Grenada: Vincent $44,318.23 5590 Mount Zion (Newton) $1,363.00 3300 Holcomb $748.62 5642 Spring Hill (Shubuta $2,860.23 3360 Indianola: Rasberry $26,755.80 5643 Sweet Pilgrim $2,311.26 3460 Rosedale $340.90 5730 Wesley Chapel (Meridian) $149.06 3480 Ruleville: First $406.23 6061 Shady Grove (Corinth $466.00 3550 Winona: Haven $17,783.46 6120 Corinth: Box Chapel $19,703.50 4040 Bethlehem $7,004.88 6140 Corinth: First $4,790.04 62 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

District Church # And Name Balance District Church # And Name Balance 6170 Crossroads $951.50 9045 Bellefontaine $30.00 6182 Siloam $1,679.00 9110 Brownlee $6,016.80 6191 Friendship (Ashland) $14.00 9141 Wrights Chapel $144.00 6241 Mt Evergreen $14,915.63 9220 Kosciusko: Wesley $795.33 6242 Rocky Springs $12,541.09 9310 Macon: St Paul $4,184.75 6280 Kossuth $707.71 9311 Mt Moriah (Macon) $37.21 6310 Mt Pleasant $440.00 9332 Liberty Hill $44.32 6311 Brownfield $18.00 9340 Middleton $5,998.01 6451 Bethel (Rienzi) $72.00 9361 Mount Pisgah $211.31 6463 Ripley: Moses Chapel $455.47 9411 Macedonia $220.00 6500 Ripley: Christ $894.10 9481 Pleasant Grove $2,112.72 6520 Walnut $482.80 9491 Piney Jordan Pr. Sta. 07/01/2018 $314.08 7151 Pearlington $48.00 10061 Amory: St Matthews $1,590.00 7251 White Plains $2,025.26 10101 Bethel $19.08 7361 Pine Grove $388.25 10180 Hamilton $763.60 7370 Midway $400.00 10202 Van Vleet $2,192.24 7482 St. Stephen $318.38 10203 Washington $210.80 8030 Batesville: St Paul $436.34 10220 Mantachie $819.84 8131 Mt Vernon $245.00 10266 Big Hill $3,836.00 8142 Eureka $554.84 10290 Ozark $6,454.86 8211 Horn Lake $5,267.40 10311 Union $156.00 8261 Trinity United Metho $2,284.81 10320 Pontotoc: Fairview $10,650.09 8290 Lula $1,722.60 10350 Beulah Grove $993.75 8300 Lyon $11,393.04 10352 Mt Nebo $2,932.50 8324 Calvin Chapel $3,136.57 10353 Pleasant Grove (Pontotoc) 8350 Mt Pleasant $552.08 Pr. Sta. 06/30/2018 $2,010.04 8370 Olive Branch: Maples Memorial $2,643.96 10360 Prairie Mount $1,553.20 8478 Strickland $1,566.04 10371 Hebron $1,000.00 8501 Red Banks $2,112.24 10380 Shannon $565.33 8520 Water Valley: First $1,373.31 10381 Brewer $848.00 8521 Bethlehem $49.69 11030 Couparle $45.00 9010 Ackerman: First $600.00 11041 Midway UMC $4,448.52 9021 Rockport $188.00 11050 Bolton Memorial $1,495.54 9040 Baldwin $400.56 11365 Middlebrook $1,108.90 9041 Drake Hill $318.20 11511 Clarks Chapel $100.70 9042 Wesley (Brooksville) $1,245.12 Total Due Benefits Invoices $514,320.89 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 63

Report #1 Active Insurance Program The Board of Medical Benefits is seeking to continue to provide a financially sound and diverse benefit plan for the PPO and HDHP plan while remaining in compliance with the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Utilizing Northwestern Mutual as our plan consultants, Blue Cross Blue Shield as our plan administrators, Amazing Pace’s program of wellness and disease management, and the dental and vision ancillary products, the plan is a well-rounded program for managing health care and promoting wellness. Karleen Green of Phelps Dunbar continues to provide the legal guidance to the board. The Board is recommending the continuation of the plan with no changes in plan design or eligibility. The rates for the self-insured plan for 2020 are as follows. For Clergy appointed to local church 2020 Rate 2020 Rate Premium Category Paid by Paid by Basic Plan Check Draft

Employee Rate $ 125 $ 122 Spouse under 65 Includes Employee $ 619 $ 605 Dependents Includes Employee $ 536 $ 523 Full Family Includes Employee $ 825 $ 806

High Deductible Plan Single Rate $ 82 $ 80 Spouse under 65 Includes Employee $ 510 $ 500 Dependents Includes Employee $ 436 $ 425 Full Family Includes Employee $ 681 $ 665

For eligible Clergy and laypersons employed by other non-mission share apportioned salary paying entities or clergy on leave status 2020 Rate 2020 Rate Premium Category Paid by Paid by Basic Plan Check Draft

Employee Rate $ 834 $ 831 Spouse under 65 Includes Employee $ 1428 $ 1314 Dependents Includes Employee $ 1245 $ 1232 Full Family Includes Employee $ 1234 $ 1515

High Deductible Plan Single Rate $ 791 $ 789 Spouse under 65 Includes Employee $ 1220 $ 1209 Dependents Includes Employee $ 1145 $ 1134 Full Family Includes Employee $ 1390 $ 1375 64 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Ancillary Plans The 2019 rates for the ancillary plans remain the same as 2019 and are as follows: (Must be enrolled in the Conference health plan to be eligible for dental and vision coverage) 2020 Rate 2020 Rate Paid by Paid by Dental Rates Check Draft

Employee $ 35 $ 34 Employee + 1 $ 77 $ 75 Family $ 109 $ 106

2020 Rate 2020 Rate Paid by Paid by Vision Rates Check Draft

Employee $ 8 $ 7 Employee/Spouse $ 13 $ 12 Employee/Child $ 14 $ 13 Family $ 20 $ 19 NOTE APPLIES TO ALL PLANS: ■ 5% Late charge if not paid by 25th of the month ■ At the death of the clergy, surviving spouses who are on the plan may continue at the lower of the 2 rates prior to the clergy death. These rates are subject to the same changes as all other participants.

Retiree Insurance Program The Conference Board of Medical Benefits provides access to retiree insurance as required by the 2016 Discipline. The Board has negotiated a fully insured program entitled Retiree Benefit Choice through our current provider, AmWINS. Open enrollment will be in the fall of each year with a plan beginning the following January 1. This plan provides the following 3 options: 1. Enhanced Plan: This is the plan that provides the Part F type program and a drug card. 2. Basic Plan: This is a plan similar to the enhanced plan but offering lower premiums by allowing the participant to take some additional financial risk. 3. Individual Plan: This plan allows a participant to go into the insurance market with the help of the AmWINS support group and design a plan that best suits their personal needs and level of premium most affordable to them. Effective July 1, 2015, the retired eligible clergy and dependents that are 65 and over, Medicare eligible, and not eligible for the conference self-insured active plan will have access to this plan. Clergy who are eligible for the retiree program but who are appointed full time as defined by ACA to serve a local church or ministry and further qualify for the self-insured plan shall be included in the self-insured plan. Those who are on the AmWINS plan as of June 30, 2015 may remain on the plan unless they have a change in appointment qualifying for conference provided insurance. Retiree Benefits Choice will continue to provide the billing services for these plans. The retiree credit will first reduce the billing premium for the Enhanced and Basic Plans. The Individual Plan will be funded with a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) earned by the retiree based on the rules adopted by the Annual Conference. Participants are encouraged to use the expanded ACH plan which will allow selection of draft dates (1st, 8th, or 15th of the month). 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 65

The open enrollment dates will be announced and opportunities to enroll in AmWINS Retiree Benefit Choice will be held in various locations around the conference. Continuing in the current plan or selecting on of the plans above can be accomplished by mail. Board of Medical Benefits Study of the Retiree Credit The Conference Board of Medical Benefits studied the Post-Retirement Health Benefit (PRHB) cost to the annual conference. The plan currently provides (1) a clergy who is on the conference medical plan for at least 5 years immediately preceding their retirement and (2) a lay employee who has 10 years of coverage immediately preceding their retirement a cash supplement. This supplement is $7 per month per full service year for service in the Mississippi Conference and is up to a maximum of 35 years or $2,940. This supplement is to be applied to their conference sponsored Medicare Supplement. The credit transfers to the surviving spouse if that spouse is also on the conference insurance at the time of death of the retiree. A break in coverage of their conference insurance terminates this monetary supplement. As of January 1, 2018, the PRBH has a funding liability of $12,644,476. There is cash funding on hand of $7,551,212 leaving an unfunded liability of $5,093,264. The funding for this plan comes from mission shares and a part of the Board of Medical Benefits budget at a cost in 2018 of $1,706,000. The Board held listening sessions in 2017. Based on those listening sessions, the board recommended to the Council on Finance and Administration and the Annual Conference approved: 1. The benefit should be terminated for all those retiring after 6-30-2020. 2. Those who retired before 7-1-2020 will continue to receive the supplement based on the terms that were in place when they retired. Dr. Grady Marlow, Chairperson David Stotts, CPA, Conference Benefits Officer

Report #2 Conference Board Of Medical Benefits Budget 2019 2020 Budget Budget

SELF INSURED PLAN Self Insured Plan Receipts Participant Payments $ 1,866,000 $ 1,866,000 Direct Invoice Employer Share $ 3,361,380 $ 3,361,380 Ancillary Dental/Vision $ 240,960 $ 245,000 Rx Drug Rebate $ 175,000 $ 175,000 Total Self Insured Plan Receipts $ 5,643,340 $ 5,647,380 Self Insured Cost Active Claims $ 4,082,532 $ 4,205,008 Ancillary Dental/Vision Cost $ 237,000 $ 245,000 Total Self Insured Plan Cost $ 4,319,532 $ 4,450,008 Net Self Insured Plan Receipts (Disbursements) $ 1,323,808 $ 1,197,372 MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT PLAN Medicare Supplement Plan Receipts Mission Shares For Retiree Credit/Surviving Spouses $ 950,000 $ - Total Medicare Supplement Plan Receipts $ 950,000 $ - 66 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

CONFERENCE BOARD OF MEDICAL BENEFITS BUDGET, CONTINUED: 2019 2020 Budget Budget

Medicare Supplement Fully Insured Plan Cost Retiree Supplement Grant $ 865,266 $ - Total Medicare Supplement Fully Insured Plan Cost 865,266 $ - Net Medicare Supplement Plan Receipts (Disbursements) $ 84,734 $ - OTHER INCOME Interest Income $ 75,000 $ 75,000 Late Fees $ 200 $ 200 Gain (Loss) Long Term MS UM Fndn $ 50,000 $ 50,000 FSA Administrative Fees $ 7,500 $ 7,500 Total Receipts $ 1,541,242 $ 1,330,072

DISBURSEMENTS: Post Retirement Health Benefits Funding $ 500,000 $ - Administration-Third Party Admin. $ 255,000 $ 260,000 Reinsurance Aggregate & Specific $ 165,972 $ 170,000 Wellness Benefit-Amazing Pace $ 72,000 $ 72,000 Clerical Salaries and Benefits $ 86,500 $ 87,798 NW Administrator Fees $ 35,000 $ 35,000 Legal Fees $ 20,000 $ 20,000 Wellness Rewards $ 28,000 $ 28,000 Audit $ 13,000 $ 13,000 Actuary $ 12,000 $ 12,000 Office Supplies $ 9,000 $ 9,000 1095 B Compliance Forms $ 5,820 $ 5,820 Liasion Officer $ 6,000 $ 6,000 Bonding Fees $ 4,830 $ 4,830 Meeting Expense $ 1,250 $ 1,250 Bank Charges $ 3,000 $ 3,000 FSA Administration $ 6,500 $ 6,500 Total Disbursements $ 1,223,872 $ 734,198 Net Receipts Over (Disbursements) $ 317,370 $ 595,874

Dr. Grady Marlow, Chairperson David Stotts, CPA, Conference Benefits Officer 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 67

F. Report of Commission on Archives and History The Commission welcomed five new members and Conference Historian Dr. Walter Howell in 2018. Dr. Howell attended SEJ Commission on Archives & History and Historical Society meetings represent- ing the Mississippi Conference. The Ministry of Memory is the mission of Archives & History and is carried out daily in the J.B. Cain Archives of Mississippi Methodism, located in the Millsaps College Library. Staffed jointly with the College Archives, it is the repository of Mississippi Conference historical records as directed by the Discipline. The Methodist collection is open to the public for research weekday mornings and serves as a rich resource to authors, scholars, church historians, and family history researchers. Methodist holdings include a large collection of manuscripts, diaries, journals, correspondence, book and church histories, along with the MS Conference records and publications dating from 1799. There are 1,100 books and 500 linear feet of manuscripts in the collection. The Commission supports the Cain Archives and encourages Mississippi Methodists to contact Debra McIntosh, Archivist, for research assistance and guidance on church records. The 2018 Tobias Gibson Award for contributions to the preservation of Mississippi Methodist history was awarded to Jim Bowers at the Conference Glory-Sightings Banquet in recognition of five years of volunteer service to the J.B. Cain Archives. The Commission celebrated the 50th anniversary of the UMC in 2018 by announcing the availability of the last 50 years of Conference Journals available on-line on the Conference web site at this link: https://www.mississippi-umc.org/conferencejournals. This includes Journals from all four antecedent conferences from 1968 to present. The Commission also prepared 50th anniversary information for social media and an exhibit table in the Convention Center during Conference. The multi-year Commission project to digitize past Conference Journals and the Mississippi Methodist Advocate newspaper is progressing nicely. All four antecedent groups’ journals have been digitized 1939-1967, and the Advocates have been digitized 1989-2009. During 2019, these electronic files will be made available on-line on the MS Conference web site. Digitizing these permanent records of the MS Conference accomplishes dual purposes of preservation and access. It simplifies the research process for Mississippi Methodists and beyond. Lambuth Day at the UMC Heritage Landmark Pearl River Church in Madison County was observed in October, an annual event held since 1927. The speaker was Bill Sherertz of Seattle, great-grandnephew of Bishop Walter Russell Lambuth. The Pearl River Church Historic Council applied for a Heritage Landmark grant from the GCAH and was awarded funds to assist in replacing the roof. The Lambuth family grave restoration project has been completed. UMC Historic Site #542 Felder Church and Campground celebrated their 175th anniversary in July of 2018, and many other churches celebrated significant anniversaries. The Commission urges churches to submit histories and anniversary print and photo materials to the Cain Archives. The Commission urges those interested in Mississippi Methodist history to acquire the recently published book A Complete History of Methodism as Connected to the Mississippi Conference, 1846-1869, which is the culmination of the Commission project to transcribe and publish the long lost manuscripts of volumes 3 and 4 of John G. Jones 19th century narrative of the story of Methodist beginnings in Mississippi. His eyewitness accounts include biographies of circuit-riding ministers, reports of church politics, descriptions of love feasts and revivals, and more. Copies are available at the Conference Office and at the J.B. Cain Archives in the Millsaps Library. Other books from the Mississippi Methodist Historical Society are also for sale in the Cain Archives. Historic Sites in Mississippi as of 6-30-2019 are: 1. Pearl River Church, Madison County 1977 2. Washington Church, Washington 1977 3. Sharon Church and Community, Madison 1977 4. Kingston Church, Adams County 1979 68 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

5. Gulfside Assembly, Waveland 1980 6. Elizabeth Female Academy 1976 7. Seashore Assembly 1982 8. Columbus First Church 1998 9. Woodville Church, Woodville 1998 10. John Ford Home at Sandy Hook, Marion County 1998 11. Felder Campground and Church 2018 At the May 10, 2019 meeting of the Commission on Archives and History, an application from Galloway Memorial United Methodist Church for designation as a United Methodist Church Historic site in the Mississippi Conference was presented and discussed. The Commission on Archives and History approved the application and recommends to the Mississippi Annual Conference that Galloway Memorial United Methodist Church be so designated as the twelfth (12) United Methodist Church Historic Site in the Mississippi Conference at its 2019 meeting. Rev. Rob Webb, Chair Mrs. Debra McIntosh, Archivist David Stotts, CPA Staff Representative 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 69

Section IV

Connectional Ministry Updates Connectional Ministries and Communications The Office of Connectional Ministries focuses and guides the mission and ministry of the Mississippi Conference. This group is led by the Director of Connectional Ministries and Communications. Committees include: Mississippi Partnerships, Wesley Pines Conference, Camping and Retreat Center; Camp Lake Stephens; Seashore United Methodist Assembly; Gulfside Association; Methodist Children’s Homes of Mississippi; Choctaw Mission; Good Shepherd Community Center; Edwards Street Fellowship Center; Moore Community House; Wesley House Community Center; Bethlehem Center; St. Andrew’s Mission; United Methodist Hour; Delta Grace; United Methodist Women; United Methodist Men; Church and Society, Board of Global Ministries (Missions, United Methodist Committee on Relief, United Methodist Volunteers in Mission and Health and Welfare); Youth Ministries; Discipleship Ministries; Commission on Communication, Vital Congregations Committee, Annual Conference Planning Committee and Discipleship. Other areas of care include: Safe Sanctuaries, Domestic Violence Task Group, Personnel Committee, Journal Resolutions and Petitions and Standing Rules. The Office of Connectional Ministries coordinates staff, boards, agencies and committees to uphold and promote shared ministries of the Annual Conference, Jurisdictional Conference, General Conference as each local church lives out our Core Values. The Office of Communications inspires, informs, and engages the people of the United Methodist Church. Communications seeks to increase awareness and visibility of the denomination in communities while also offering services, tools, products and resources for communications ministry to the local church through their district offices. The Office of Communications reports the vision for “Living Out the POWER of We” and is led by the commission on communication. The Book Discipline (646) requires that “the commission shall be a service agency to meet the communication, publication, multimedia, public and media relations, interpretation, and promotional needs of the annual conference. United Methodist Appalachian Ministry Network We envision a society where all people in Appalachia are valued. One in which all are offered discipleship for Jesus Christ and where all have the opportunity to realize God-centered spiritual, social, and economic potential. The mission of the United Methodist Appalachian Ministry Network is to advocate for Appalachia within the structure of the United Methodist Church and to empower social justice through leadership development and collaboration with ministries and organizations that serve the region. Spring Board Meeting was held in April in Steubenville Ohio at the UMAMN office located inside the Urban Mission Ministries. The board awarded $4500 in ‘Hunger and Poverty’ grants (details below). In line with UMAMN goals set by the board in 2017, 2018 was a year of advocacy and education. UMAMN partnered with local churches to address concerns focusing on hunger and poverty. As a result, UMAMN identified three major concerns: opioid addiction, affordable housing/homelessness and human trafficking. UMAMN hosted a workshop for clergy and the UMAMN board members. This workshop provided training for church leaders to address the growing epidemics in the rural Appalachian areas. Three presentations were given address how the church can respond to the opiates crisis, address the lack of affordable housing and assist local law enforcement by provide access to human and sex trafficking recovery agencies. The training was free and open to all East Ohio, West Ohio and West Virginia Conferences. Fall Board Meeting was held October 25, 2019 at Belmont UMC in Belmont, MS. The board awarded $4000 in ‘Hunger and Poverty’ grants (details below). A presentation was given by Belmont 70 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Food Panty Staff and Volunteers. The Belmont food pantry was a 2017 ‘Hunger and Poverty’ grant recipient. Belmont UMC demonstrated how local business and individuals can support projects after funding. (Sustainably is a requirement of funded projects). Along with UMAMN board members, New Albany District Superintendent, Rev. Dr. Raigain Miskelly, was in attendance. 2018 Hunger and Poverty Grants A total of total of 115 participants and 188 families were served from the four funded hunger and poverty grants. Grant breakdown: 35 individuals were provided assistance through the liquid nutrition program in Big Stone Gap, VA ($1500 grant awarded). 80 low income or home bound seniors were severed daily by the meal delivery program in Mooreseburg, TN ($2500 grant awardee). 186 families were given food assistance in Frakes, KY ($2000 grant awarded). And two families received solar panels on their home in Somerset, PA ($2500. Grant awarded). Executive Board Members: Rev. John Baney, Board Chair, Susquehanna Conference; Rev. Joy Wigal, Recording Secretary, West Ohio Conference; Sharon Kirtdoll, Finance Secretary, East Ohio Conference; Sue Rogers, Treasurer, East Ohio Conferences; Deaconess Erie Stuckett, Membership Chair, Mississippi Conference; Rev. Lee Ann Dunlap, West Ohio Conference; and Gayle Leasure, West Virginia Conference 2018 conference Contributions: MS: $2665.31, NY: $2700, East Ohio: $1700, West Ohio $500. A copy of the 2018 budget and audit will be provided to all conferences. 2018 Advance Special Contributions: $5241.69 Baddour Center Greetings to our friends in the Mississippi Conference from everyone at Baddour Center! We celebrated our 40th anniversary on December 12, 2018; and, without hesitation, THANK YOU – corporately and individually – for your open doors, love, support, and prayers through the years. The Conference has helped us touch countless lives through this ministry, including residents and their families as well as employees and friends, many of which are counted among your congregations. We often say that while many things have changed, or are changing, one thing that has not changed is our mission. Baddour Center still provides a loving and nurturing community through which approximately 150 women and men from across our nation, in short, “live, learn, work, worship, and play.” Every day, we seek to help residents reach their God-given potential, doing so in a safe yet relatively independent environment Baddour serves residents through four primary program areas: Residential Services, Vocational Services, Community Life, and Education and Behavior Supports. We provide all services, including health services, spiritual growth, horticulture, Special Olympics, and the performing and creative arts, among others, within this framework. To remain competitive nationally, and uphold the word model in our mission, we must constantly assess our services and our systems for service delivery. We shared last year that serving persons with intellectual disabilities is increasingly complex, as opportunities and expectations grow, along with the number of persons needing services; and, this requires more creative and strategic thinking and planning. God continues to bless us immeasurably. Here are a few examples. In response to an aging infrastructure, we are fully engaged with executing our campus master plan, having last year renovated the Chapel, two resident homes, the library, the vocational administration suite, and repaving all roads, among other things. We anticipate renovating two of the original nine homes and building two new homes this year, among other actions. All actions include greater cost- and energy-efficiency measures. We also introduced and opened last year a new and separate community-based operation to provide Mississippians home- and community-based services under the Medicaid Waiver. CLIMB (or Community Living in Mississippi – Baddour) served four persons through its Day Services program and purchased a home in downtown Senatobia, for which we are currently seeking three residents. We are patiently building and very excited about this new venture, as it permits us to share our blessings beyond previous limits. Please contact us if you know someone who might benefit from the program. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 71

A favorite example, and one we know you will especially appreciate, is the “Baddour Bible Bunch,” a group of approximately ten residents who are members at Independence United Methodist Church. The joy these residents experience being a part of this church body is incredible, and the church’s acceptance and love for them in return is inspiring. While this program started more than a year ago, this church has become, without question, these residents’ church. We can share many wonderful and exciting examples of God’s provision, however, what happens here is not obstacle- and stress-free. Baddour Center continues operating as a privately-funded, faith- based operation. As we shared last year, we remain fully committed to preserving the fundamental ele- ments that make Baddour such a special place while also diversifying our business model and successfully growing these new initiatives. We covet your prayers and seek wisdom and discernment in all decisions. Baddour remains blessed financially, showing a net profit for the past fiscal year. We strive to be good stewards of the funds entrusted to us, spending approximately 85% of our annual budget on programs and services and 15% on administrative and fundraising costs. The Conference continues to partner with Baddour, as do churches, Sunday School classes, and circles. The Conference, through its many churches, also helps us raise awareness through hosting The Miracles. This gifted bunch of residents are tremendous ambassadors for Christ and Baddour. This report is a sample of The Baddour Center’s recent activity. Please note that you are always welcome to visit. We love visitors so that they too can experience first-hand the blessing that we are privileged to enjoy daily. We believe the Lord has done and will continue to do wonderful things at Baddour, and we thank you for being a part (and welcome those who want to be a part)! For more information about our mission and ministry, contact The Baddour Center at 1-888-4BADDOUR. You might also visit our website, www.baddour.org.

2018-2019 Trustees for The Baddour Center Mr. Jim Ainsworth Mr. Tom Hunt Mrs. Judy Starkey Rev. Mark Allen Mr. Steve Nelson Bishop James E. Swanson Mr. Don Baddour Mr. Robert Paine Mr. Phil Swift Mr. Paul Baddour Mr. David Peck Mrs. Shea Veazey Mrs. Margy Graham Mr. Parke Pepper Rev. Vickie White Dr. Carole Haney Mr. Don Scipper Mr. Press York Rev. Rickey Haynes Mr. John Spooner Bethlehem Center, Inc. Bethlehem Center has entered into its 42nd year of existence. Our mission is achieved by providing quality education and service to the families we serve through a spiritual aspect. Some of the services we offer is: ■ Daily childcare with a guided learning environment and after-school care with homework assistance. ■ Annual free tax preparation ■ Monthly birthday parties hosted by UMW ■ Annual Thanksgiving Dinner for the community to enjoy Bethlehem Center is in process of launching a new project “Alzheimer Outreach and Awareness. This project is in the making stage and will be partner with local churches and communities to educate how to deal with the situation if you are a caregiver, we are looking forward to working with other on this project. Without the support of Mission Shares, we would not have been able to provide the quality education to over 82 students. There is a lot of valuable information and resource the Annual Conference provide to us. Bethlehem Center welcome their support. 72 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

2019 Bethlehem Center Inc. Board of Directors Glenda Barner, President Mildred Dille Vanessa C. Miller Nicole Martin, Vice President Rev. Haywood Hannah Shirley C. Carey Leslie Bounds, Treasurer Rev. David McCoy Deloris Washington Yvonne Toaster, Secretary Christine Carmichael Iely Mohamed Hope Bynum Camp Lake Stephens Camp Lake Stephens celebrated 73 years of providing quality Christian education for people of all ages of Mississippi and beyond. We conintue to focus on our mission statement: Committed to being a place where children, youth, and adults can encounter God and respond in faith to God’s call to transform the world. 2018 was yet another exceptional year for our ministry and expanding our campers and guests faith life. Program Statistics ■ Over 1,300 residential summer campers in 60+ summer programs grew in faith and community formation ■ Many second, third and quite a few fourth generation families experienced CLS ■ The LIT/CIT program continues to max out and provide leadership and discerning experiences for our older campers. ■ 400 day campers started their camping career at Camp Lake Stephens ■ Traveling Day Camp Sites hosted over 400 youth in direct partnership with eight congregations and the Mississippi Conference. ■ 60 amazing college and high school students served as summer staff leaders. When totaled up, they had over 250 summers of Camp Lake Stephens’ experiences. 15 served in a church/mission/ Wesley Foundation in a leadership role after camp. ■ Nearly 650 youth participants in our retreat programs ■ Over 40 retreat groups and meetings that brought over 1,700 people to CLS! Leadership Transition Following Darrell Whitaker’s service of 14 years as the Executive Director. Rich Swartwood became the Executive Director at CLS, with over 25 years of outdoor ministry experience. In September, Wes Partin joined our staff as Facility Director. We also added five seasonal program specialists (interns) to our staff this fall. Two are full-time and three are part time. All five are assisting in program, facility, and office tasks. We are blessed with incredible staff that continues to provide quality programming and hospitality. Chap Fenwick was promoted to Assistant Director in the fall as he takes on new leadership roles. Sally Lott McLellan continues to be the voice and backbone of the office as our Office Manager. Linda Fleming is our amazing Food Service Director who provides our year-round food service needs, and well as a warm smile to those who visit. CLS Loves Volunteers! Amazing volunteers donated 3,052 hours of labor in 2018! Volunteers groups included: several work groups, two sessions of NOMADS, four AmeriCorps events and many incredible. Those hours amounted to over $61,000 in labor savings if we were to pay for that work. The following are the highlights of what they accomplished: ■ Pool renovation included increased circulation, added outdoor showers, upgraded electrical, renovation of chlorination system and removal of the barbed wire ■ Painted the front wall and replaced two windows and the front door of the dining hall ■ Relocated the gazebo by Quay’s Place and added a sun shade structure in its place 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 73

■ Renovated Cabin .5 to the “Resting Place” for clergy and individual spiritual retreats ■ Moved the maintenance area to the barn with plans to add a Nature Center area in the old building ■ Replaced the HVAC system in the Chapel with a high efficiency heat pump system ■ Removed mobile home from site ■ Replaced the zip line and harnesses ■ Removed graffiti and added curtains in the cabins ■ Replaced Chapel lights Significant energy was spent in reconnecting with people who love Camp Lake Stephens. We partnered with over 220 individuals and congregations (114 new donors) for financial gifts for both operating funds and designated gifts. Over $127,000 for the annual budget and $11,750 for scholarships was received in 2018. Our Micro-Fundraiser for the zip line raised over $5,000, the Giving Tuesday exceeded our $15,000 matching gift with $16,750 in total gifts. Additionally, we received over $142,000 in designated gifts for the pool, dining hall, and other projects. The Mississippi Conference Funding of $113,263 (12% of our operating budget) provides vital support to our ministry. These funds make it possible to support the diverse programming that allows us to enrich and empower our campers, staff and guests to see and feel God’s presence in their lives in the intentional community and take that experience to help them transform their world into a stronger, more positive place. Parent Quote: “It’s been a long long time ago back in the 70s. Charles Morrison was the camp director, and things were a lot different! But it was the best time I think I ever had. I couldn’t wait to go. I went on a 10-day canoe trip one year. I just love that my son loves it as much as me. He looks forward every year. And I always feel safe sending him because I know he will be taken care of. That means a lot to a parent.” Camper Quotes: “I will definitely go to camp next year and the year after that and the year after that and the, well you get it! I will go to camp until I’m old enough to be a counselor, and then I’ll be a counselor until I’m too old to do that, and then I’ll get a job there as a nurse in the infirmary or a lunch lady or something.” “I learned that God always loves you no matter what and God is present everywhere and in everything.” “God is stronger than my fears.”

Camp Lake Stephens Board Members Richard Barrett Laura Gilliom Rich Swartwood Joey Lott Dexter Haynes Raigan Miskelly Chris McAlilly Linda Leatherwood Andy Stoddard Corey Truett Erin Grant Bishop James Swanson Sr. Abbey Bridges Virginia McLaurin Paulette Buford-James Audrey Jordan

Edwards Street Fellowship Center 1979 to 2019. For forty years, Edwards Street Fellowship Center has been shining the light of God’s love across the Pine Belt! Mission: To shine the light of God’s love. Purpose: To provide a helping hand to the poor, the underserved, the suffering in the greater Hattiesburg area. Values: ESFC respects the dignity and value of clients, volunteers, and staff. Core values are trust, open communication, justice, and fiscal responsibility in the spirit of the love and compassion of Jesus 74 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Christ. We are welcoming to people of all beliefs and respectful of their individual needs. We are compassionate, nurturing the health, well-being and dignity of each other and those we serve. We are collaborative, seeking and sharing best practices and respecting the mutual contributions we make in fulfilling our mission. We are innovative, challenging ourselves and our partners to improve the ways we work and serve. We are passionate in the pursuit of our mission. We serve all equally, with integrity and openness, breaking down barriers that build injustice. Love: Prayer request/suggestion/feedback cards are provided at the ESFC food pantry, medical clinic, and thrift store. Sunday school members at a local dementia care senior living facility lift up the prayer requests weekly. Fruits and vegetables grown in ESFC’s community gardens are distributed through the food pantry. Generosity: The ESFC food pantry supplies emergency and supplemental food to over 1,500 households per month. In 2018, 230 tons of food were distributed to residents of a seven-county area. Fellowship Health Clinic offers free medical, pharmaceutical, dental, medical lab, social work, and physical therapy services to uninsured and underinsured adults from Forrest and Lamar counties. Fellowship Health Clinic’s impact in 2018 includes 813 patient encounters with medical providers; 5,456 prescriptions filled for 107 patients; 685 lab tests processed by LabCorp; 108 referrals for tooth extractions, dental cleanings, and X-rays; and 370 social work interviews. Justice: Community partners offer free services in food pantry lobby, such as free HIV testing and wellness check-ups and education. The ESFC Thrift Store serves as a workfare site for the DHS SNAP program and various rehab/recovery programs. New initiatives launched in the spring of 2019 include the Pine Belt Diaper Bank and Wheels of Glory, a referral program for free bicycles for those exhibiting need for reliable transportation. Apprenticeship: Relationships are built with neighbors of all ages. Senior adult ladies gather weekly for Bible study and a meal. Children’s programs include Boy Scouts, in-school tutoring, and Junior Auxiliary’s Smart Art, Coat Giveaway, and Family Affair. UM Connections: 1. Mission Shares. ESFC is overwhelmingly grateful for mission share funding, which helps us provide vital programming for our community in an atmosphere of respect, dignity, compassion, and Christian love. Mission share dollars are used in all programming aspects of our ministry: food pantry, medical clinic, thrift store, Boy Scouts, community gardens, senior ladies’ Bible fellowship, woodlands area, and special events. 2. Local Churches. In the past year, ESFC directors have shared at UM churches (Eminence, Heritage, Parkway Heights, and Purvis) and the MS Annual Conference session mission booth. ESFC is abundantly grateful for the service of volunteers this year from local UM churches (Asbury, Bentley Chapel, Ellisville First, Heritage, Laurel First, Main Street, Moselle, Oak Grove, Parkway Heights, Petal, Purvis, St. Paul-Hattiesburg, Talowah, USM Wesley Foundation, William Chapel, and Williamsburg). Churches take ESFC’s mission to their site when ESFC provides 50-pound bags of rice or beans and cases of Ziploc bags to repackage commodities for food pantry distribution. Church groups also decorate the pantry’s paper grocery bags with verses of scripture and encouraging messages. ESFC board members (who represent nine Hattiesburg District UM churches) receive bulletin / newsletter blurbs at board meetings so they can easily share ESFC news with their church offices. Community Connections: 1. Community Partners. A small sampling of ESFC’s community partners includes the Asbury Foundation, Camp Shelby Youth ChalleNGe, E&B Discount Grocery, Forrest General Hospital, Hattiesburg Clinic, Mississippi Food Network, Pearl River Community College, Sanderson Farms, St. Vincent de Paul Community Pharmacy, United Way of Southeast Mississippi, the University of Southern Mississippi, Walmart, and William Carey University. 2. Media. ESFC has an active social media presence (three FB pages and one Twitter account), as well as two websites, www.EdwardsStreetFellowship.org and www.FellowshipClinic. org). Local television stations and newspapers regularly highlight ESFC’s programs and events. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 75

Testimonial - Fellowship Health Clinic: “Carol” is a 56-year old female who weighed 344 pounds when she entered Fellowship Health Clinic in February of 2018. Her blood pressure was in the “urgent” hyperten- sive range of 180/110. At her first clinic appointment, Carol was prescribed blood pressure meds that she received through the free clinic. Because transportation is a barrier for Carol, FHC also provided her with a blood pressure cuff, log book, and educational tips for home monitoring. Carol takes full advantage of FHC’s services, participating in weekly physical therapy sessions for her knee pain, attending educational Lunch & Learn sessions each month, and enrolling in the Family Y Group Lifestyle Balance (a partner program for clinic patients). The water aerobics class is her favorite activity at the Family Y, and it complements the exercises she does in physical therapy at FHC. One year later, Carol’s weight is down 10% to 311 pounds. Her blood pressure is at a much safer level of 138/76. With improved health, Carol has obtained a job as a sitter for a home health agency. Carol is excited to report, “Now that I have a job, I can purchase my own personal hygiene items! I depended on other people to buy these things for me before, but I didn’t always get them. I’m so happy now!”

Edwards Street Fellowship Center Board of Directors: Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 Class of 2022 Henry Bethley Carolyn Hood Gwendolyn Davis Gene Carothers Ricky Hagenson Cecelia Jones Willie Macko, Treasurer Joan Holland, Vice Chair David McGowin Carol Williams Clay Rasco Marcia Line Sessions Polk Bill Youngblood, Chair Matthew Shoemaker Corey Proctor, Secretary Life Members: Iva Brown, Lonette Cliburn, Peggy Gates, Anne Hutto, Lelia Wilson Ex Officio Members: Henrietta Brown, Cynthia Cross, Lauren Mason, Ann McCullen, Brandi McKay-Ruffin, Angela Neal, Marvin Strahan, Bishop James Swanson, Julie Talbot, Vickie White Good Shepherd Community Center, Inc. The primary Ministry of the Good Shepherd Community Center is to reach out in our community and surrounding areas to improve the lives of children, youth, adults, and families. We do this by providing affordable Daycare to working parents, a GED program where adults can complete their High School Education, a free Medical Clinic, After School tutoring for elementary aged children, as well as providing food for over 500 people at Thanksgiving and clothing and toys to 500+ children for Christmas each year. 1. Our Daycare program took in a family in June with two children. The three-year-old boy did not speak. He only pointed and made grunting sounds. His parents just thought he was behind but we realized immediately that this child needed much more help than we could offer alone. We contacted the Vicksburg/Warren School District special education office and the Vicksburg Family Development Services. This child was given a full examination and we were able to get him into a specialized speech and hearing program. His parents have been amazed. They thought nothing was wrong but now this child is speaking, he has come out of his shell (way to much some days), and is well on his way to catching up on the skills he should have at this age and move forward with his class. Because of funding from the Mississippi Annual Conference Mission Shares we were able to offer all of these services at no cost to the family. Making a difference in the life of this child has given the entire family hope and a better outlook on their future. 2. Almost on a daily basis we offer volunteer opportunities for people to come and visit our ministry to see what we are doing and work with those in our facility. This gives them a hands on experience and shows them that they can make a difference in someone else’s life. Through their gift of love to others, they become more generous with their time, their gifts and bring and inspire others to do the same. This makes them apprentices of their faith as they reach out in their faith communities to bring more people to become Disciples of Christ and transform the world. We have over 500 volunteers each year. 76 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

3. Our GED Program continues to reach out in our community to help those who did not get their High School diploma be prepared to take and pass their GED test. This year we have had 7 people pass their GED test with at least 4 more taking the test before the end of year. If all of these pass, we will move over 350 people who have gotten their GED through our program. But GED to us is more than just classes. Many of our students do not have transportation so we offer free transportation to and from class each day. Some of our students have children who need to be in a childcare program while they are in class so we work to put those children in our Daycare. When we do this, it only cost the parent $10 a month and our Mission Shares help pay this if the parent cannot. Even before they graduate we take them to the WIN Job center to apply for employment and take them to the Hinds Community College and the Alcorn University Vicksburg branches to help them apply to further their education. We encourage them to go on by offering up to four $500 scholarships each year which are donated by a special individual in our community who used to volunteer with this program and gives her a chance to continue to be a part of changing lives. Gulfside “Assembly” Association The Gulfside Association Board of Trustees continues to regain a missional focus envisioned by Bishop Robert E. Jones. This year presented opportunities to define our purpose and key focal areas, setting our programmatic thrust, and board structure and functionality. Summary of Organizational Changes Purpose: For nearly 100 years Gulfside has advocated and provided opportunities for underserved, excluded, and discriminated against people and communities. Today, we continue to engage in the ministry of advocacy by: ■ inspiring people, churches and organizations to positively impact underserved communities ■ training the next generation of multicultural advocates. Key Focal Areas: 1. Revitalizing the Gulfside brand through storytelling and a vibrant online presence. Increasing name recognition and spreading a new narrative about Gulfside. 2. Maximizing the value of our board, staff and volunteers. Getting the right people involved, doing the right things at the right time. 3. Establishing and executing strategic goals and impactful programming. Pursuing partnership as a key strategy and financial self-sufficiency for programmatic offerings. 4. Pursuing greater financial stability, making Gulfside a viable ministry partner for years to come. Increasing giving by rejuvenating and increase size of database and volunteer database. Creating a long-range plan (10+ years) for facilities and income generation. Strategies: 1. Rev. Dr. Terry Lynn Hilliard appointed Interim Executive Director 2. By-Law Revisions 3. Development of assessment tools 4. Development and Implementation a. Memoranda of Understandings with each partner b. Signature Program: Emerging Clergy and Laity Leadership Development Initiative for social and personal holiness for people of color and African descent c. Development/Institutional Advancement Committee d. Creation of media and historical display e. Establish grant portfolio f. Organize local and conference volunteers for missional engagement with Gulfside 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 77

We believe these efforts will move Gulfside into a stronger future with vibrant partnerships and ministries on the Gulf and in the world.

Gulfside Association Board of Directors Rev. Elijah Stansell, Chair Bishop James E. Swanson Ms. Erin Hawkins Rev. Dr. Terry Lynn Hilliard, Ms. Vera Thomas Rev. Lindsey Robinson Interim Executive Director Ms. Ora Franklin-Rodgers Dr. David Beckley Rev. Dr. Vincent Harris, Rev. James Salley Rev. Dr. Ouida Lee Planning and Resource Mr. David Stotts Ms. Jasmine Haynes Committee Rev. Dr. Jackie Rose-Tucker Rev. Dr. Joe Connelly, Ms. Cheryl Thompson Assessment Committee Ms. Stella Beene-venson

Mississippi Methodist Senior Services, Inc. 2018 was a good year for Mississippi Methodist Senior Services, Inc! We continued to be strong as we served older adults in the spirit of Christian love all across the state on behalf of United Methodists. With an annual budget of over $65 million and 1,000 employees serving over 1,450 residents, we are blessed to be related to the United Methodist Church. Here are some of the highlights: Aldersgate, (Meridian) has continued its strategic planning. It will be conducting a fundraising campaign feasibility study this quarter to determine the likelihood of a successful $4 million capital campaign for several major projects, including a Green House home. Wesley Meadows’ (Hernando) capital campaign continues to progress. Still in its “silent phase” Donors have pledged and given over $679,000 toward its Green House home and maintenance endowment. NextAge Mississippi has taken its next step forward with the hiring of its first Executive Director, Kim Easterling! She is already making an impact as she “learns the ropes” and embraces the NextAge vision. Housekeeping and handyman services have been added in Lee County. These comple- ment Meals on Wheels and our internet-based information portal and toll-free number. The 2019 Strategic Plan, which began development at our retreat last fall, has taken shape. We are excited about the direction it is leading us for the next five years. It was formally adopted at our Annual Meeting of the Membership in February. It is the most significant strategic plan tool that we have had in over 25 years. One of our strategies is to develop a “Leadership Academy” modeled after the LeadingAge Leadership Academy. It will be a “masters-level” course for our leadership teams that will consist of a year-long course of reading, projects and meeting (four times). It will be initially designed and taught in collaboration with Dr. Michele Holleran, PhD, a nationally known consultant who designed and taught the first LeadingAge Leadership Academies. We have received a wonderful pledge to underwrite the initial costs for the development and first year that we will formally announce at our meeting. We recently received the results from our 2018 Resident Engagement Study. Holleran Consulting is our vendor for these surveys. We were very pleased that several of our campuses achieved levels of engagement that significantly exceeded Holleran’s national benchmarks and received Holleran’s “Choice Community Award.” Aldersgate was one of only two campuses nationally which were recognized for their highest results for both employee and resident engagement surveys. In addition to Aldersgate, Flowers Manor (Clarksdale), Martha Coker (Yazoo City), and Wesley Manor (Hattiesburg) received the Choice Community recognition for their resident survey results! As you know, the Sunday Fund provides needed financial assistance to elders who have out-lived their resources. We provided over $234,000 support during the last twelve months. Last year’s gifts set a record—over $384,000 was given to this most important fund! 78 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

United Methodist Senior Services of Mississippi, Inc. Members of the Corporation Class of 2020 Class of 2021 Class of 2022 Kaye Bernheim Bruce K. Calcote Glenda Brinkley Randy Burchfield Hargie Crenshaw Rev. Jimmy E. Criddle Newt Harrison Kenny Dill, Sr. Bennie Daniels, Jr. Harriet Hearn Rev. Claire E. Dobbs Rev. James W. Dye Frank M. Patty, Jr. Jackie Granberry Rex Gillis Cheryl Penson Rev. Embra K. Jackson II Jeremy Hill Tom Pittman Margaret McKenzie Rev. Joe May Larry Pupa Rev. Dwight Prowell Amy McFerrin Frank A. Riley, Jr. Van Ray Ann Milam Sandy Slocum Richard Topp Rev. Neville Vanderburg Dave Vincent

Board of Directors Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 Hamp Dye Polly Bailey David Brevard Alice Gorman Paula E. Drungole Rev. Jimmy E. Criddle Rev. Joe May Van Ray Rev. Claire E. Dobbs Cynthia Parker Frank A. Riley, Jr. Juanita Floyd Rev. Chris Young Bill H. West David Vincent Officers Chair: Cynthia Parker Vice-Chair: Van Ray Secretary: Bill H. West United Methodist Senior Services of Tupelo Area, Inc. United Methodist Senior Services Health Care, Inc. Board of Directors Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 Bill Hines Marshall Briscoe Kathryn Barrow Amy McFerrin Dana Foster David Brevard Ann Milam Paul Mize III Randy Burchfield Sally Enos Williams Tom Murry Kay Collins Sandra Wright Lowell Walker, Jr. Dana Finch Ex-Officio Members Cynthia Parker, Chairman, MMSS Stephen L. McAlilly, President/CEO Alan Brown, Vice Pres./Chief Operating Officer Jon Stirewalt, Executive Director

United Methodist Senior Services of Clarksdale Area, Inc. Board of Directors Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 Diane Eubanks Beth Pegram Ed Exum Anthony J. Murray Pat Robinette Bess Houston Ed Peacock III Rodge Rogers Shaw Johnson III Tom Ross Neville Vanderburg Ellington Massey Ex-Officio Members Cynthia Parker, Chairman, MMSS Stephen L. McAlilly, President/CEO Alan Brown, Vice Pres./Chief Operating officer Monica Jennings, Executive Director 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 79

United Methodist Senior Services of Columbus Area, Inc. United Methodist Senior Services of the Golden Triangle Area, Inc. Board of Directors Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 John Davis Jimmy Criddle Mark Crigler Bob Howland Debbie Gard George Irby Ellender McClure Dennis Holliman Theresa Miley Bill West Sammy Townsend Sarah Sanders Jay Wiygul Tom Waller Sandra Woodard Ex-Officio Members Lloyd Gray, Chairman, MMSS Stephen L. McAlilly, President/CEO Alan Brown, Vice Pres./Chief Operating Officer Craig Hill, Executive Director

Aldersgate Retirement Community, Inc. – Lauderdale Senior Services, Inc. Meridian Senior Services, Inc. – Aldersgate Personal Care, Inc. Board of Directors Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 Leslie Dunn Tony Fouts Cheri Barry Maurice H. Hall, Jr. Wanda Hastings Bill Crawford Chris Lauderdale Jeff McCoy Jeremy Hill Jo Beth Maranto Mark Scarborough Ronnie Walton Larry Pupa Mina Beth Tonini Cay Wedgeworth Ex-Officio Members Cynthia Parker, Chairman, MMSS Stephen L. McAlilly, President/CEO Alan Brown, Vice Pres./Chief Operating officer Lawona Broadfoot, Executive Director & Regional Director – South

Hattiesburg Area Senior Services, Inc. Wesley Manor Retirement Community, Inc. Board of Directors Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 Justin Crockett Kaye Bernheim Emily Ann Allen Michael H. Gilreath John L. Lipscomb Steve Allen Diane B. Harvard Burt Patterson Janie Bertucci Margaret McKenzie James “Pat” Smith Ruth Bishop Rufus M. Smith David Vincent Jeff Lawson Ex-Officio Members Cynthia Parker, Chairman, MMSS Stephen L. McAlilly, President/CEO Alan Brown, Vice Pres./Chief Operating officer Rebecca Anderson, Executive Director

Seashore Campgrounds Retirement Home, Inc. Board of Directors Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 Justin Crockett Kaye Bernheim Emily Ann Allen Michael H. Gilreath John L. Lipscomb Steve Allen Diane B. Harvard Burt Patterson Janie Bertucci Margaret McKenzie James “Pat” Smith Ruth Bishop Rufus M. Smith David Vincent Jeff Lawson 80 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Ex-Officio Members Cynthia Parker, Chairman, MMSS Stephen L. McAlilly, President/CEO Alan Brown, Vice Pres./Chief Operating officer Rebecca Anderson, Executive Director

Greene County Retirement Systems, Inc. Board of Directors Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 Shelley Eubanks Victor Chatham David Allen Steve Smith Nell Gray Drew Hollinghead Freddie Cecil Zehner Russell Turner Betty Leydecker Walsten Ex-Officio Members Cynthia Parker, Chairman, MMSS Stephen L. McAlilly, President/CEO Alan Brown, Vice Pres./Chief Operating officer Catherine Bradley, Executive Director

United Methodist Senior Services of Jackson Area, Inc. Board of Directors Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 Ginger Carter Joel Horton Judy Bufkin Hamp Dye Tom Kendall Thomas Edward Joiner Marion Eifling Vernon Muse Frank Sutton Alice Gorman Carol Walker W. Allen Watson Isla Tullos Lester Walls Davis Watts Ex-Officio Members Cynthia Parker, Chairman, MMSS Stephen L. McAlilly, President/CEO Alan Brown, Vice Pres./Chief Operating Officer Executive Director

United Methodist Senior Services of Clay County, Inc. Dugan Memorial Home, Inc. Board of Directors Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 Glenda Brinkley Bucky Kellogg Barbara Bryan Kay Coggins Kim West Edgar Harris Gale Griggs Eluster Wicks Ladonna Helveston George Purnell Mary Jo Hill Ben Rosenkrans Bettye Swift Ex-Officio Members Cynthia Parker, Chairman, MMSS Stephen L. McAlilly, President/CEO Alan Brown, Vice Pres./Chief Operating Officer Shelley Tuggle, Executive Director 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 81

United Methodist Senior Services of DeSoto County, Inc. Board of Directors Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 Lee Ashcraft Cheryl Denley Tommy Borgognoni Frank Fairley Jean Dickerson Jenny Gartrell Barbara Jepsen Joe Frank Lauderdale Randy Hailey Alan Sims Beth Owens Tim Sexton Billie Wilhite Cheryl Ward Sandy Slocum Ex-Officio Members Cynthia Parker, Chairman, MMSS Stephen L. McAlilly, President/CEO Alan Brown, Vice Pres./Chief Operating Officer Marsha Brasher, Executive Director

Martha Coker Home, Inc. Board of Directors Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 Janice Adams Emily Burton Floyd (Jet) Griffin, Jr. Robert B. Barton, Jr. Debra Crook Helen Hendrix June Crow Rita Sanders Penny Jackson Van Ray Christy Vandevere John Simmons Ex-Officio Members Cynthia Parker, Chairman, MMSS Stephen L. McAlilly, President/CEO Alan Brown, Vice Pres./Chief Operating Officer Julie Hoffman, Executive Director Mississippi Choctaw United Methodist Mission The Mississippi United Methodist Choctaw Mission (Choctaw Mission) has a longstanding historical tradition among the Choctaw people. The Choctaw Mission is a caring ministry working with Choctaw people to enrich lives of children, young people and families living in Neshoba and Leake Counties – Pearl River, Bogue Chitto, and Red Water Communities on the Indian Reservation. The Pearl River Community near Philadelphia, Mississippi is the largest populated Tribal Community and the location of the Choctaw Mission. We envision a society where all Choctaw people are valued and their culture is preserved and respected. Therefore, our work strives to give hope to families through Christ-centered programs that encourage the Choctaw people to help develop programs and help determine the vision to advance the future of the Choctaw Mission. We visualize the Choctaw-based Mission Center to be known as a sacred space honoring the culture of the Choctaw people. We continue to work toward develop lasting relations with the Tribal Administration, Tribal Social Services, The Elderly Center, and the Tribal Communities to help build a brighter future for the Choctaw people. We remain thankful for your faithful partnership as well as individuals, congregations, and United Methodist Women that have supported us over the four years as we transition from the Choctaw Mission comprised of three mission churches to a community and family outreach center working with the Choctaw people. Without the support of the Mission Shares, we could not be effective and would not be able to meet the needs of the Choctaw people. We are thankful for mission groups filling gaps when we don’t have financial resources or staff to do the ministry. We welcome church groups, United Methodist Women organizations, individual volunteers to help with our programs and services. We have faced many obstacles over the years and continue to be challenged with limited funding, buildings needing major repairs and a need to remodel the Family Life Center for better usage to accommodate the programs and future endeavors we envision. With these challenges, we know God continues 82 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) to bless us with greatness. While there have been many changes over the years both with the Choctaw Mission and the Choctaw Tribal Communities, we continue to strive to adapt to the ever evolving needs of the Choctaw people. But one thing that remains constant is our mission to provide programs and projects to supplement the Choctaw people to all-inclusive lives through community and family programs, spiritual enrichment and leadership development. The following are some of the highlights: Family and Community ■ Clothes Closet: There continue to be a need for clothes, especially for young children. We expanded our hours to be open three days a week and will open for people needing clothes for emergencies, such as a fire, displacement, funerals and other needs. We serve an average of 106 families each month. ■ Food Pantry: We serve an average of 92 families a month to supplement families with canned and non-perishable items. ■ Saturday Morning Café is a place for elderly fellowship and a light breakfast for families in the community. We have an average of 70 adults and children each Saturday morning. ■ Children and Family Projects and Festivals provide seasonal and holiday celebrations. Over 300 children attended the Easter Egg Hunt and Easter Celebration, 73 children came to the Back to School Fun Day, 132 children and families at the Fall Festival, 157 for the Holiday Luncheon and over 180 to attend the Annual Community Christmas Celebration. ■ Elderly Ministry is a partnership with the Tribal Elderly Center. We have devotions, activities and prepare gifts of fruit and candy at Christmas for the Elders. ■ Domestic Violence Kits were prepared for children and youth. ■ Operation Christmas Gifts began in 2017 for children in Foster Care and children in Tribal Social Service. The first year we provided 96 children with a Christmas party and gifts on their wish list. This Christmas we had gifts and a party for 55 children. Spiritual Enrichment ■ The meaning of Advent and Lent are celebrated with Bible Readings. ■ Vacation Bible School brings children together in the three Tribal Communities. With the help of mission teams we were able to provide VBS for a combined total in the three communities of 378 children and youth. In the Pearl River and Bogue Chitto Communities volunteers offered Bible Study for adults. Leadership Development ■ Leadership Building Blocks is a program helping individuals to gain knowledge and understand the purpose of the ministry of the church from a spiritual perspective. The expected outcome is to prepare leaders to be disciples to help grow the church through evangelism and nurturing ministries. ■ Children and Youth Club, Dreamcatchers, is a Christ-centered children and youth club for ages 5 to 17 in the Bogue Chitto Community. They meet on Wednesday evenings with as many as 45 young people. The program goal is to reach young people to grow their faith, foster hope and love for self and others. The Dreamcatchers attends the Native American Cultural Workshop, “Moccasins Rock”, at Lake Benson Retreat Center, Bon Aqua, Tennessee. The Dreamcatchers’ choir, “Chata Alla Taloa”, on programs at the Meridian District United Methodist Women Annual Meeting, churches and United Methodist Women organizations across the Mississippi Conference and the Southeastern Jurisdiction. For the last four year the “Chata Alla Talo” is on program at the Native American Summer Conference at Lake Junaluska. The Dreamcatchers participate in Vacation Bible School during the summers, provide community service and participate in other events in the Choctaw Tribal Community. ■ Workshops and Training Opportunities help to gain knowledge and understanding. The Longest Walk 5 runners provided workshops and events for the Choctaw Tribal Community. They are Native Americans of the American Native American Movement, Declaring War on Drugs, seeking cultural and spiritual solutions to end drug abuse and domestic violence. The National Alliance on Mental illness Meridian Affiliate– NAMI Meridian Affiliate – presented an event on mental health concerns. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 83

This report reflects what we are doing, but it does not capture the splendor of the grounds and how God’s love is a driving force where the Choctaw people can gather on “holy grounds” to give thanks and praise God’s awesome wonder. We would love for you to visit to experience the culture of the Choctaw people. We know that God’s grace and goodness have been with us throughout the years and will continue to guide us to do God’s ministries at the Choctaw Mission.

Board of Directors Stella Willis, President Connie Deon, Treasurer Fred Tubby Susie Alex, Vice President Gloria York, Secretary Ex-Offico Members Patricia Battle, Executive Director Daniel Tubby Allene Hickman Sybil Tubby Dayna Goff, Meridian District Superintendent Vickie White, Director of Communication and Connectional Ministries Moore Community House Moore Community House is your United Methodist mission agency serving families in east Biloxi. We have cared for children in low-income working families since we began in 1924. Over the years we have continued to support working parents by giving them the assistance of affordable child care and their children the educational head start resulting from quality early childhood education. MCH also offers job training to help women get into trade skill jobs where they can earn 3 to 4 times minimum wage – even in entry level jobs. We have found it is most supportive for families when we can offer both programs: job training for moms coupled with child care for her children – so she can complete job training and know her children are getting the cared they need. This combination makes a huge difference in the lives of our families. Our services are aimed at supporting families: we provide early childhood education and job training for the overall purpose of supporting families as they work to move toward economic self-sufficiency. Improving circumstances for moms results in improving circumstances for children, making a long-lasting impact. We are blessed with the support of many of you and many volunteers from across the church and across our community. Your mission investment changes lives. You change the lives of families by supporting our Early Head Start program and in our Women in Construction program. You expand the horizon of opportunity for children. Your work is multiplied hundreds times over through our work. Come visit and volunteer and participate in our work making a difference in the lives of families. You can learn more, and find out about how to become partners in our mission work at www.moorecom- munityhouse.org. Thank you for your support.

Board of Directors Linda Lightsey, President Bob Tucei Clarissa Harris Joe Dawsey, Vice-president Mary Ann O’Gorman Lisa Michiels Ann Smith, Secretary & Rev. Dr. Larry Hilliard Rev. Elijah Mitchell Early Childhood Expert Kiara Taite Kara Adams, Treasurer & Annie Johnston, Legal Expert Financial Expert 84 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Seashore United Methodist Assembly The mission of Seashore United Methodist Assembly (SUMA) is to provide a Christian environment for learning, growth, and renewal, leading to spiritual wholeness. SUMA envisions individuals, families, and groups, who, because they have been touched by the redeeming love of Christ, are at peace with God, themselves, others, and all of God’s creation and are thus empowered to live in God’s will. The ministry shall emphasize education, spiritual development and renewal, and emotional rehabilitation and recreation for individuals, clergy/spouse, single parents, families, and other non-profit groups. All areas of the ministry at SUMA are benefited from the mission shares received from the Annual Conference. They allow SUMA to offer a place of rest and relief to people needing temporary shelter after a natural disaster, or between jobs, or any other difficult time in their lives. SUMA is able to provide rooms at low or no cost to individuals in need. Mission Shares also means SUMA never lets any camper miss a retreat because of financial limitation. Shares allow SUMA to keep ministry at the forefront, and to minister all individuals. SUMA also offers space and resources to the Annual Conference and Local Districts for special events. In helping people form spiritual wholeness, SUMA is living out God’s vision for the campus and aligning with the Conference vision to run our sights outward to create opportunities, expand our facilities and build community. SUMA is traveling to churches to work with pastors and leadership to discern fresh expressions of ministry for intentional discipleship. Relationships are being built with congregations, helping them to see how their mission shares are supporting the mission of creating disciples in camping ministries. SUMA has been raising scholarship funds to assist children wishing to experience camping ministries. In the fall of 2019, SUMA will be participating in a Race and Reconciliation Pilgrimage – Wade in the Water, partnering with Gulfside Assembly, the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, the Department of Archives, and MGCCC Wesley Foundation in an effort to create an awareness of the much needed understanding and reconciliation of all races working together for the common goal of reaching others for Christ. SUMA has been investing time in the Wesley Foundations of Mississippi to help create leaders for the future with a mindset on Camping Ministries. In the summer of 2019, SUMA will host a two night “WESLEY GETAWAY” for high school students. This will give high school students the opportunity to get a taste of what it is like to participate in the Wesley Foundation when they arrive at college. In partnering with the Wesley Foundations, SUMA is able to help train leaders as camp counselors for various camping activities. The ministry at SUMA has been to provide a place for persons seeking a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, either as a first encounter, or a renewal of mind and spirit. It has also been a place for recreation, learning, and building relationships with others. Receiving of mission shares allows SUMA to provide school groups, church groups, individuals, and other groups a place to come and getaway while still being in an urban setting. During the year 2019, SUMA has or will host approximately 75 groups, staying a total of 170 nights, with approximately 2,300 people. Approximately 25,000 meals will be served. Because of our mission shares, SUMA has been able to provide housing, meeting spaces, and meals at a reasonable expense. SUMA will also be partnering with The Society of St. Andrews to host a camp this summer. “Harvest of Hope” is a mission program providing an opportunity to learn about hunger and what to do about it – gleaning – a commonsense biblical solution. Together they will glean fresh fruits and vegetables which will immediately find their way onto the table of those in need. The group will worship together, work together, and play together all while exploring what God wants us to do concerning our neighbors in need. In July, 2018, our offices were moved into the newly renovated retreat house to accommodate for much needed space. The old office was converted into a nice one-bedroom cottage with a kitchenette. New flooring has been installed in our dormitory housing. We are also in the process of laying new flooring in Frazer Hall, our hotel style accommodations. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 85

SUMA is communicating with local churches by meeting and talking with leaders, pastors, and others in the community to see where and how Seashore United Methodist Assembly can be an asset to the local church. Some ways of helping will be by hosting retreats for adults, youth, and children, and offering to be of service to the congregation in planning/coordinating these events. SUMA also notifies local congregations of events happening through the District newsletter, brochures, our website – www. seashoreassembly.org, and our Facebook page. The following goals have been put in place to help meet needs of our local community, the MS Annual Conference, and the region: 1. Continue to add and renovate our existing facilities. We are in desperate need of larger and more modern meeting facilities. Housing will also be of a concern, because as we update our meeting spaces we will need to provide lodging for our guests to rest and relax. Also, we are looking at providing a space specifically for children to come and play while enjoying the campground. 2. Provide programs that will enhance the growth of United Methodists and others into a closer walk with the Lord Jesus Christ. 3. Provide assistance to persons who are in need of generosity and loving kindness that SUMA can assist. These may be persons who are down on their luck or in need of someone to help them along their path as they grow into spiritual wholeness. Working with the MS Annual Conference, SUMA is able to offer retreats and programs to all areas of the state and also to those outside MS wishing to come to MS Gulf Coast. We are able to provide a setting that is welcoming and renewing to all ages, race, and backgrounds of people. The MS Gulf Coast has many opportunities for groups wishing to stay in this environment. As part of the MS Annual Conference, guests know and appreciate the United Methodist Church for opportunities offered in this location that may not be available to their group in other parts of the state or country. Through the Holy Spirit and our United Methodist connection, SUMA is making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Board of Trustees Rev. Andy Stoddard Rev. Rachel Benefield-Pfaff Ms Lillie Ann Wyatt Rev. Vicki White Mr. Michael Hedgepeth Rev. Ricky Reece Rev. Timothy Thompson Dr. Diane Chapman Rev. Tanya Edwards-Evans Rev. Dr. James Swanson Mrs. Connie Helmuth Rev. Elijah Mitchell Rev. Larry Hilliard Ms Kim Reeder

St. Andrew’s Mission This past year has been one of changes and renewal for St. Andrew’s Mission, Inc. We look forward to adding more innovative ideas due to these changes, to provide more fellowship and assistance to our communities’ ministries. Our staff is dedicated, faith-filled and truly believe in our mission, to improve our community one individual at a time. While one of our support ministries has now grown to the point of being self-supportive and on its own, it leaves us to where we know it is an asset to the community in which it is located. By His grace we searched and gained another. He does provide opportunities when asked. We are proud to be able to assist our beneficiaries through the support ministries (thrift stores), of which we now have five. Most are small, yet can be mighty. Some of the staff are those who have previously been a recipient of our services. The support ministries afford us opportunities to employ, clothe, provide housewares, and furnishings to those in dire straits. While there are too many for just us to assist, we do our best to provide support whenever necessary. It has been voiced by beneficiaries that our ministries were the cornerstone that assisted them in growing forward in their lives. Sometimes in small ways, other times in larger ways. In this past year we have provided the ability to clothe several beneficiaries so they were able to appropriately seek employment. Some of those now have jobs that they are very proud of and that now support their families. 86 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

St. Andrew’s Mission has been working closely with other support agencies. A few of our joint beneficiaries have needed beds (a DHS requirement) in order to be reunited with their children and/or the children of their children. Thankfully, we were able to supply quite a few this past year. We are told those families are doing well and recovering from their circumstances quite nicely. We have a ministry that fills in the gaps where other assistance programs do not. This ministry affords us the ability to help those who have no where else to turn. With this ministry we were able to assist with something as simple as fuel to get to a loved one, a necessary life supporting prescription, or help with the remaining funds needed to get a roof over their family’s head. One of our ministries affords office space for a very minimal fee to those who have the dream of own- ing their own business. We assist them with guidance, financial advice from volunteers of local business men and women, as well as the means to consult with others that are also housed in the facility. This same ministry houses free GED classes through a local community college. This ministry is being developed and improved on constantly. While we are extremely proud of all of our ministries, we know they wouldn’t be able to exist or assist without the generosity of benefactors and volunteers. We are most proud to call the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church one of those. Ed Codding Executive Director

Board of Directors Brittany Raybon Niki Gibson Brandon Andrews President 2019 Virginia Goza Johnnie M. Clark Catherine Sanders Michael D. Guttuso Jim W. Hedges Vice President 2019 Tina Brumfield Nikki Belote Melisa H. DeCoux Vickie Webb Ed Codding Secretary/Treasurer 2019 Mrs. Betsy Murrell Executive Director

The Mississippi United Methodist Foundation, Inc. Stories are the way we understand our world, our hopes, and ourselves for the future. Christians celebrate and tell The Story of God’s love for us in Jesus Christ. The Foundation is here to assist you in telling The Story by ensuring that resources are available for today and tomorrow. Your church and ministries are at the heart of all that we do at the Foundation. Your desire to leave a lasting legacy may be expressed in creating a ministry or scholarship endowment. We at the Foundation are here to help equip you in areas of planned and legacy giving through presentations and a variety of resources designed to assist you in telling The Story. Please contact us: 601-948-8845 | [email protected] | https://ms-umf.org With gratitude, The Rev. Mike Hicks, Executive Director 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 87

The Mississippi United Methodist Foundation, Inc. Board Membership 2019-2020 Class of 2017-2020 Class of 2018-2021 Class of 2019-2022 Mr. Turner Arant Dr. Joe N. Bailey, III Rev. Zachary Beasley Sunflower Tupelo Holly Springs Mr. Freddie J. Bagley Rev. Anna Fleming-Jones Mr. Howard E. Boone Brandon Hazlehurst Madison Rev. Mitchell B. Hedgepeth Mr. Henry Holifield Rev. Joe Landrum Brandon Ridgeland Crystal Springs Mr. Charles Leggett, Jr. Mr. Tom McCormick Mr. Raymond Miller Hattiesburg Gulfport Clinton Mrs. Kelly Riley Mrs. Jan Hitt Mr. Jesse L. Ross, Jr. Madison Meridian Jackson Mr. Walker Sturdivant Mr. John David Robinson Dr. Ron Whitehead Greenwood Ridgeland Booneville Rev. John Moore Mr. Ben Walton Rev. Jeff Shannon Ridgeland Jackson West Point Mr. Wade Watts Dr. Acie Whitlock, Jr. Mr. Lester Myers Madison Madison Inverness Rev. Tim Prather New Albany Emeritus Members Mrs. Alveria Crump Mr. Bryce Griffis Mr. Joe Charles Sanders Mr. Sherman Muths Mrs. RaLeen Haynes Mr. O. B. Walton, Jr. Rev. Prentiss Gordon Dr. Fred McDonnell Rev. Rayford Woodrick Mr. James McRae Ex-Officio 2017-2018 Bishop James Swanson, Chairperson Rev. Stephen Cook, District Superintendent Without Vote Mr. Brent Wilson, CFA Chairperson Without Vote Rev. Vickie White, Connectional Ministries Without Vote The United Methodist Hour, Inc. The mission of The United Methodist Hour is to, through media and technology, proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ and to resource the local church to live faithfully and boldly in the world. The United Methodist Hour began as a radio program in 1971. The ministry is now a half-hour television program broadcast on 15 stations throughout Mississippi and other states in the Southeast. The Hour, Time that Makes the Difference currently has a viewing audience of over 20,000 weekly. Many of our viewers are homebound or in hospitals, nursing homes, and elder care facilities. Congregations that do not have regular weekly services also depend on The United Methodist Hour for regular worship and spiritual encouragement. We hear from many Sunday School leaders who use The Hour, Time that Makes the Difference, in helping prepare their lessons each Sunday. The following is The United Methodist Hour’s Statement of Faith: We are a radio and television witness serving as an extension of the local church’s mission and ministry for the glory of God. We pledge unceasingly to seek higher standards of excellence in presenting the 88 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) story of Jesus Christ with truth and clarity throughout the world so that “They may know the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom God sent.” (John 17:3) In carrying out our mission we acknowledge the futility of human efforts without the guidance of the Holy Spirit. We thank you, members of The United Methodist Annual Conference for your continued support of this servant ministry. Steve Casteel, Executive Director

United Methodist Children’s Homes Report will be added after 2019 AC Session

Wesley House Community Center, Inc. The past year has been an exciting time of growth and restoration for the Wesley House Community Center. We completed the expansion of our Child Advocacy Center an are proud to see the results of healing and wholeness that is provided to survivors in our area. We are excited to see growth in the areas of Christian Relief and Education as well. Ultimately, we experience “glory” sightings while providing a “Hand Up” to the community. During 2018 we experienced growth in all aspects of our Christian Relief program. Our distribution of food bags increased from 200 food bags per month to over 350 food bags per month. In this, we witnessed the outpouring of our community in response by providing greater amounts of canned items. In addition, we partnered with the Mississippi Food Network to provide more items in our food bags as well. We saw an increase in those seeking clothing from our clothes closet and a greater need for financial assistance as well in prescriptions, utilities, and rent/mortgage assistance. In many ways we see the community responding to the needs of others in so many great ways. Our educational programs continue to produce great results. Our partnership with other agencies has helped to offer GED courses, Parenting classes, and financial planning assistance. Our pre-school continues to provide an excellent education for pre-kindergarten students at a very reasonable price. Our four year old students are ready for Kindergarten with knowledge of shapes and colors and reading. Through education we are able to see transformed lives. The East Mississippi Sexual Assault Crisis Center and the East Mississippi Child Advocacy Center continue to expand and grow. We completed the remodel of this area in August of 2018 (totally funded by grants) and are proud to have an inviting facility for victims. With this expansion we completed 30% more forensic interviews while doubling the number of counseling sessions. We were proud to receive a 97% satisfaction rating from our clients through the Child Advocacy Center of Mississippi. Additionally, we were proud to host the Chaplains for Children program offering education on child abuse and how we as churches can respond. We were proud to partner with UMCOR in response to several disasters in east Mississippi. UMCOR has an office in the Wesley House to serve in the rebuilding of our community from a recent tornado. We were able to respond to area flooding with flood buckets and hygiene kits. The partnership continues as we work to better the community around us. We are excited to have taken over the space from the former Wesley church across the street. This space was invaluable to the work in distributing Christmas gifts to over 600 children this past year. We intend for this new Wesley House Community Room to be a resource for those in our community that need space for training and community events. Thus, our partnerships in the community continue. We are honored to be the vessel through which others can serve the poor, the needy, and the oppressed in our community. We often see those with resources and those in need come together through the ministries of the Wesley House and it is through these that we see God glorified. Respectfully submitted, Rev. David Schultz, Executive Director 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 89

Wesley House Community Center Board of Directors: Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 Class of 2022 David Hall Jody Richardson Justin Anders Benny Dubose Francine Farrar Robin Hull Rindy Vaughan Janet Barham Bobby Sims Keith McCary Pam Randall Michael Mayerhoff Julie Riley Betty Evans Ryan McGough Tim Allred Aimee McWilliams Mary Simpson Advisory Board: Betty Vise, Maurice Hall Ex Officio Members: Dayna Goff, Gloria McAlpine, Victoria White, David Schultz Wesley Pines Conference, Camping and Retreat Center Martin Luther once said, “God writes the gospel not in the Bible alone, but on trees, and flowers, and clouds, and stars.” .....he must have had Wesley Pines in mind! . A joyful aspect of what we do is to help persons hear and experience Jesus through the natural setting at Wesley Pines.....this is at our core as an extension ministry of every United Methodist Church in the MS annual conference. Wesley Pines, is more than a place, it is an experiencing God center. Our theme.... “get outdoors, get into Christ” speaks of our desire to incorporate the natural environment into Christian faith formation. Some very brief bullet points of information of how God has blessed Wesley Pines… ■ Wesley Pines is debt free! We operate in the black! ■ There were 313 first time professions of faith last summer, and many re-dedication. ■ We celebrated over 10,000 persons as our guests in 2018 and fed just over 38,000 meals. ■ With the help of many volunteer teams, we re-roof 11 buildings and put out over 1000 gallons of paint….the camp once was brown…it is now driftwood blue ■ Completing a new pavilion on the north end of the activity field ■ Continuing to improve our 1-mile prayer trail with a new bridge and many new cedar benches along with38 carved scriptures for encouragement. New plans and events for Wesley Pines… ■ New 4004 sq. feet flooring for the great room at Durr Wise Lodge Center. ■ As Bro. Johnny retires, the board of Wesley Pines has hired Kaleidoscope (a company that assists camps in national searches for servants in the camping ministry) to find a new director by Sept. 1, 2019.

2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 91

Section V

Forming Spiritual Leaders A. Conference Lay Leader Report

Paragraph 607 of the Book of Discipline gives the Conference Lay Leader several responsibilities. The conference lay leader is the elected leader of conference laity and has the responsibility for fostering awareness of the role of laity and enabling and supporting lay participation in the planning and decision-making processes of the church. The conference lay leader is also responsible for meeting with the cabinet on appropriate matters. I have done these things in part by attending as many conference-level meetings as possible to which I have been invited. I have attended Vital Congregations Committee meetings every other month, monthly Bishop’s Operational Team meetings, monthly extended cabinet meetings, and met with the Spiritual Leadership office. I have helped plan and lead during the annual Collaborative Leadership Conference. I have also led trainings and delivered speeches this year on lay ministry and discipleship in numerous districts. In each of these settings, I am cognizant of and vocal with clergy and lay about the participation and value of lay people in ministry, and I especially try to encourage lay people to embrace our responsibility for ministry at every opportunity. We are considering ways in the Spiritual Leadership office to provide additional programming to empower and enlighten lay people to lead in our conference. We hope to bring such an opportunity as early as 2020. The conference lay leader shall relate to the organized lay groups in the conference, including United Methodist Men, United Methodist Women, United Methodist Youth and a Conference Director of Lay Speaking Ministries. Further, the Conference Lay Leader shall ensure that the annual conference has a Conference Director of Lay Speaking Ministries. During the past year, I have worked with the Conference UMW President, Dorothy Carter, and the Conference UMM President, Kenyatta Walker, attending the annual UMW and UMM meetings and discussing celebrations and challenges in the interim both individually and with our Board of Laity as a whole. I and our Board of Laity similarly talk with our youth representative, Jaci Murden. I have supported The Gathering, our annual youth event in Jackson, by attending a portion annually. I have also ensured that we filled the vacancy we had in the position of Conference Director of Lay Speaking Ministries. Our new director, Cornelius Mozee, has been an active participant of the Board of Laity, and we are working on how to better coordinate our district lay servant ministry programs. The conference lay leader is to meet regularly with the bishop to discuss the state of the annual conference. As the Bishop’s schedule allows, we sit down and talk about the vision we each see for our conference, and I present any new ideas I have to increase lay participation as well as any areas where I think we can facilitate the role of laity as provided in the Book of Discipline. We strategize about issues and ideas that can subsequently be presented to the cabinet to increase the role and participation of laity who relate to the District Superintendents and conference staff. The conference lay leader shall participate in Lay Servant Ministries. I team taught a Methodist polity class in the East Jackson District lay servant ministries school this winter. It was a timely and needed class where many people gained clarity about matters, such as itineracy, conferences (annual, jurisdictional and general), and the Book of Discipline. The conference lay leader shall be the chairperson of the Board of Laity. The Board of Laity shared an afternoon together last fall talking with conference office directors, learning the resources available in the conference and discussing the responsibility of the Board of Laity. We continue to meet quarterly and to support each other through prayer and verbal affirmation between meetings. 92 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Also, as we did last year, we will continue to try to use the lay executive session during annual conference as a time to foster the awareness of the role of laity among our lay delegates. Lastly, the conference lay leader shall be a member of the Association of Annual Conference Lay Leaders (AACLL). I have attended the AACLL meeting every year that I have been Conference Lay Leader. This year we will discuss whether to propose or support legislation, and I serve on the legislative committee. I wanted to have a seat at the table promoting legislation that fosters awareness of the role of laity and empowers us to make disciples. Additionally, I am serving as the Vice President of the Southeastern Jurisdiction of Conference Lay Leaders. At our Southeastern Jurisdiction leadership meeting this winter, my conference lay leader colleagues asked me to lead a discussion with the Bishops where we asked questions and discussed ways to have more collaborative leadership among the annual conferences in our jurisdiction and between the Bishops and Conference Lay Leaders, both on a jurisdictional level and an annual conference level. It has been my great honor and privilege to work hard for a third year to promote increased role and responsibility of laity in our conference and jurisdiction. LaToya Redd Thompson Conference Lay Leader

B. Commission on Equitable Compensation

The purpose of the Commission on Equitable Compensation is to support full-time clergy serving as pastors in the charges of the Mississippi Annual Conference by recommending conference standards for pastoral support; administering funds to be used in base compensation supplementation; and providing counsel and advisory materials on pastoral support to district superintendents and committees on pastor-parish relations. 2016 Book of Discipline Par. 625.2 The Commission meets regularly to review requests for funds and other business. The Commission thanks the Rev. Trey Harper and Mrs. Dorothy Ellis from the Office of Spiritual Leadership for their work among us. We also appreciate Mr. David Stotts’ assistance. I am grateful above all, for the dedicated members of the Commission, who give of their time and interest in this work. Rev. Mike Hicks Chair of Commission on Equitable Compensation Compensation Ranges and Guidelines Classifications of Clergy Compensation For 2020 base compensation shall be: ■ Full Connection $35,952 ■ Provisional (education requirements for elder completed) 33,059 ■ Provisional (education requirements for elder not completed) 30,414 ■ Associate Member 30,414 ■ Full-Time Local Pastor 27,979

Effective July 1, 2018 the value of church provided housing shall be used by the Commission in establishing Salary Supplement Grants. The intent is to provide an equitable level of compensation for clergy serving charges without a parsonage. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 93

The policy of this Commission is to supplement no more than 25% of total compensation for salary supplements; therefore the local charge is required to pay an amount at least equal to the following in each category: Note: See Charge Qualifications, 1b. ■ Full Connection $26,281 ■ Provisional (educational requirements for elder completed) 24,166 ■ Provisional (educational requirements for elder not completed) 22,232 ■ Associate Member 22,232 ■ Full-Time Local Pastor 20,453 Local churches without a parsonage are encouraged to consider providing a housing allowance in addition to the required minimum compensation. Qualifications for Receiving Supplementary Compensation Support The qualifications listed below shall apply to all churches requesting Equitable Compensation support: ■ Average weekly worship attendance for the charge shall be equal to or greater than average worship attendance (previous calendar year) of churches across the Conference. ■ Percentage of mission shares paid by the charge shall be equal to or greater than the average percentage of mission shares paid (previous calendar year) by the churches across the Conference. ■ A pastor must live within the bounds of the charge to which he/she is appointed. Pastors serving charges without a parsonage or one member of a clergy couple may be exempt from this requirement by Executive Committee action in consultation with the Cabinet. ■ A pastor must devote full-time to his/her charge. ■ Pastors (local pastors, associate members and elders) who have completed educational requirements must meet the continuing education requirements set by the conference Board of Ordained Ministry. Local Pastors must meet educational requirements as established by The Book of Discipline and Conference Board of Ordained Ministry. ■ Pastors must hold a valid local pastor’s license. ■ Those serving a church or charge of less than three churches employing more than one person on its professional staff, including the pastor, will not be eligible for a compensation supplement. ■ Clergy and charges receiving Equitable Compensation Funds must attend an Equitable Compensation Review and Generosity Training Event every other year, if the charge has not met all minimum standards in attendance and mission share payments. Arrearage Policy on Equitable Compensation ■ The annual conference shall protect the local church full-time pastor and annual conference from any potential impending arrearage whereby the full-time local pastor is unable, due to financial constraints, to receive his/her regular payroll or housing allowance. Once the local church treasurer is aware of any such situation, notification shall be given to the pastor, lay leader and appropriate chairs of local church committees. It shall be the responsibility of the chair of the staff parish relations committee to investigate the financial situation and seek remedies. No remedy shall include a reduction of the pastor’s compensation for the current conference year. ■ If it is determined that the local church is facing a potential long-term financial crisis, then the chair of the staff parish relations committee shall notify the local pastor and district superintendent of a need for a subsidy grant on equitable compensation or change in pastoral compensation/appointment for the following conference year. ■ Should the situation arise that a pastor’s compensation has been delinquent for more than thir- 94 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

ty (30) days, it shall be responsibility of the district superintendent to notify the Commission on Equitable Compensation, with power given to that committee, to seek resolution of the issue. This may or may not include the fact that the local church is already receiving a subsidy grant from the committee on equitable compensation and such factor shall be taken into account. ■ Other measures may be taken if the local church is delinquent in compensation for more than thirty (30) days, especially in light of the pastor’s direct invoiced pension and benefits. The conference treasurer may begin a process whereby a written payment plan with the local church shall be developed, so that the conference receives full payment of pension and benefits by the end of the conference year. ■ All discretionary spending (any expense not requiring payment under contractual or conference obligations) shall be suspended until the district superintendent, treasurer, the staff parish relations committee agree on a remedial plan. ■ Under no circumstances will the local church’s real property be mortgaged to pay for current or budgeted expenses, including arrearages, nor may the sale of any such property be used for arrearage (¶2543 The Book of Discipline). ■ It is the responsibility of the local church to provide minimum compensation for its appointed clergy, but it is equally the responsibility of the full-time pastor to provide evidence of an arrearage by proper documentation as required by the treasurer. A one-year statute of limitations will be enforced for any such claims. Categories of Equitable Compensation and Qualifications The following are the four categories of Equitable Compensation Grants and the qualifications of each. These qualifications are in addition to those listed above which apply to all categories of Equitable Compensation. 1. Salary Supplement: a. Charges must pay at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the equitable compensation scale for the current pastor serving the charge. b. No charge will participate in the fund if it reduces the compensation level below the previous year, unless such a reduction is deemed justifiable by the Commission after recommendation by the District Superintendent in writing. c. The church or charge must have at least 150 members and/or three churches on the charge. d. Charges with pastors receiving supplementary support will have a service of worship every Sunday, with due consideration for adequate services for each church. e. The charge whose minister receives supplementary support will provide a minimum of two(2) weeks paid vacation, including two (2) Sundays annually for the minister; and will provide expenses for a guest minister or lay speaker in the minister’s absence. f. Salary Supplement grants are limited to five successive years. 2. Cooperative Ministries: a. The “director” or “coordinator” must be a full conference member who has other clergy persons under his/her supervision. The clergyperson serving as ‘director’ or coordinator’ must live within the bounds of the parish. b. The maximum amount that the Equitable Compensation Commission may provide per year for this support is $1,200 over the maximum Equitable Compensation support. If the director is not receiving regular Equitable Compensation supplements, a maximum of $3,600 annually may be available. c. Before funding will be granted for successive years, the director shall submit an annual evaluation of the progress of the ministry made the previous year. d. In no case will Equitable Compensation funds be used to support a minister beyond 150 percent of the applicable Equitable Compensation scale. e. There is no limit to the number of years a cooperative ministry may receive support. 3. Ethnic Congregational Development: 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 95

a. Church shall articulate special leadership needs in an ethnic congregation. b. A maximum of $10,000 per project may be allocated. For each additional year of the grant, the funding will be reduced by 25 percent from the beginning support figure. The local charge is expected to increase their share of the compensation by 25% each year. c. The pastor must be a seminary graduate or have experience and proven ability to produce in the area of the particular need. d. The Cabinet must approve the projects. e. Ethnic Congregational Development grants are limited to four successive years. 4. Unique Ministries: a. This category is designed to give additional support for “special situations” by providing Equitable Compensation funding for a pastor assigned by the bishop to serve an unusual appointment in which the charge cannot pay an adequate compensation. b. Requests for funding will be initiated and approved by the Bishop and Cabinet. The request will identify the uniqueness of the church and the specific qualifications of the pastor. In addition, the request will identify the specific goals for advancement in ministry, which the grant is anticipated to enable. c. Funding for a Unique Ministry will be reviewed annually by the Commission on Equitable Compensation. d. Unique Ministries grants are limited to four (4) successive years of funding for the approved project; for each additional year that approval is granted, the funding will be reduced by 25 percent of the beginning support figure. Applications Applications are made available through the Director of Spiritual Leadership. Annual applications for the approved years of a grant are not required, if there is no appointment change.

Mississippi Conference Policy for the Housing of Clergy Couples Introduction: Clergy couples provide unique opportunities and challenges in the appointment making process, and for the congregations with whom they partner. Like the majority of 21’’ century clergy households, they include two working adults. Many clergy spouses’ professional careers are impacted by itinerancy, or the itinerancy of the clergy spouse is necessarily limited by the geographical restrictions on a professional spouse’s career. Two clergy households, like unmarried clergy households, are restricted only by availability and suitability of appointments, though normally requiring two such appointments within a reasonable geographic proximity, especially while raising younger children. Nothing is as unique as appointing two married clergy to separate appointments as housing. The United Methodist Church has long limited the way in which clergy housing may be understood as compensation, yet clergy housing provides a benefit to the appointive process and the housed clergy, while also being an expense to the local congregation, and simultaneously a potential financial boon and logistical liability when an appointed pastor does not occupy a parsonage. The ways in which housing affects current compensation, taxation, clergy expenses, and pension contributions create issues for equity for two clergy households. Historically, one spouse has been asked to serve charges able to provide lower base compensation, while also living in the parsonage provided by the higher-paying charge. Unhoused clergy may negotiate for additional compensation based on the costs to the clergy and the net financial benefits to local churches, and that such additional compensation when negotiated is in the interest of equity, and in the interest of the long-term financial viability and stability for the charge that is temporarily not providing housing for its pastor. Recognizing the particular opportunities and challenges provided by clergy couples, the Mississippi Conference recognizes the following considerations regarding the peculiar realities and concerns for equity in clergy couple housing and related issues of benefits and compensation: 96 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

1. The cost to any pastor living in a parsonage is the 15.3% self-employment tax on the fair rental value of the parsonage, which must come out of salary. If a clergy couple lives in the same parsonage, this tax only applies to one salary. 2. For Social Security purposes housing/a housing allowance is credited as income; meaning that although SECA may be calculated at a higher rate, at retirement Social Security will also be at a higher rate. Thus, the pastor, who has no parsonage or housing allowance value added, will receive a lower social security payment. 3. Direct Contribution portions of the CRSP Clergy Retirement Plan are affected by the valua- tion of a parsonage toward retirement ( 2016 Book of Discipline, ¶252.4e) e.g. It is more expensive for a pastor to live in a different community from the church served: un- reimbursable commuter travel is involved and possibly storage costs for un-used furniture. 4. A church may find that there are financial hazards to having a period of time when it does not have to pay for housing and then upon change of appointment, finds itself once more having to include that cost in its budget. 5. A parsonage could be rented if not in use by the clergyperson. BE IT RESOLVED that the Mississippi Conference Cabinet acting ad interim adopts the following policy on March 28, 2019: 1. The Cabinet will continue to make efforts to appoint clergy couples in proximity to each other, making it possible for couples to live together. 2. Recognizing that equity in compensation is mutually beneficial to the well-being of clergy, the long-term financial stability of local churches, and our witness to justice in the world, when a clergy couple is appointed in close proximity, the clergy person not housed by a local church that routinely provides for housing the District Superintendent shall negotiate for additional compensation in consultation the local church at the time of the appointment. The five items outlined in the previous section of this policy shall be used as guidelines for starting negotiation of additional compensation. In general, such additional compensation should not be more than the net income that could be received from the fair rental of a parsonage. 3. When a clergyperson living with a clergy spouse and receiving a salary including additional compensation leaves an appointment, the previously negotiated additional compensation shall be subtracted from the salary, if the new pastor is not part of a clergy couple. C. Higher Education & Campus Ministry

Ministry Description: What is your primary mission, vision, and/or purpose? (Please write 300 words or less. This description will be published in the pre-conference journal for the Session of the Annual Conference.) United Methodist Campus Ministry in Mississippi is dedicated to winning young people to Christ and aiding in them in their path of discipleship. We understand, as George Barna has estimated, that about 8,000,000 adults in their twenties have left the church in the past decade. The mission of Wesley Foundation ministry stands to be a response to this crisis. Wesley Foundations provide a place for college students to experience the love of Christ, receive excellent Biblical teaching, find opportunities to grow as leaders in the Christian faith, and work side by side with other students and believers in serving God in the community. Statistically, people are most open to the gospel during their college years. They have left home and journeyed to the next level of their education, ready to learn new ideas and expand their horizon. Wesley Foundation ministry reaches people at this perfect time in their life to connect them with what they need most – a relationship with Jesus. Students then began to see transformation in their lives, and the Wesley Foundation is right there to aid students as they are making significant decisions regarding their vocation, life goals, and guiding philosophy. Our Wesley Foundations serve as an 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 97 extension of the church’s ministry as they reach college students on their own terms at this critical time in their lives. The Committee on Higher Education and Campus Ministry serves to steward the vision and resources of the Annual Conference, evaluate the effectiveness of our units and ministers, and make recommendations to the Bishop and Cabinet regarding deployment of personnel. The bulk of our mission shares are allocated towards funding salaries to provide campus ministers, of which some are lay, some clergy, some full time and many part time, on as many of our college campuses as are possible in the state of Mississippi. How do you measure your effectiveness compared to the parent/child maps which reflect the mission statement of the Mississippi Annual Conference? Our committee has chosen not to measure and monitor growth within each Wesley Foundation based solely upon numerical goals. However, we do indeed monitor and encourage our units to grow as they reach out to their campuses in new ways. Our focus is on seeing evidence that students are growing spiritually, making sure units are providing quality programming, determining that each unit is fiscally sound, and ensuring that campus ministers are leading their students and board of directors in a healthy manner. We are able to determine these markers of success through the work of our Campus Ministry Consultant who does an excellent job in staying connected with each unit, providing distance and on-site support and training for them, as well as informing our committee of the information we need to determine the effectiveness of each unit. We additionally include a section for goals to be listed in our grant process. These goals are then reflected upon and measured to assess growth and improvement with the campus ministries each year. We have continued to follow our new funding model which is working well, and we have been diligent in maintaining achieving our goal of eliminating deficit spending. We are currently evaluating potential new methods of awarding grants and are strongly encouraging each Wesley Foundation to have a presence in local churches for spiritual and financial support. We continue to see spiritual as well as numerical growth among our units in the past year and expect this to continue as our units gain strength. Apportioned mission shares come from gracious givers in local churches. In what ways are you communicating with local churches to encourage them to give to mission shares? Our campus ministers do indeed communicate with local churches concerning mission shares. Through our Campus Ministry Training conducted by our Campus Ministry Consultant each unit was challenged and required to take the story of campus ministry into local churches. Campus Ministers, students, and board members have all been contacting local churches and setting up Sundays to come and participate in a worship service or Sunday School. When allowed by the pastor, the mes- sage of the needs of campus ministry and the opportunity of contributing to mission shares has been expressed. Campus Ministers have also begun putting information in District Newsletters, attending District Events, and volunteering in local churches in order to spread the good word about the beauti- ful work being done in campus ministry. What do you see as your specific purpose and goals as defined in your child map for the apportioned mission shares you are requesting for 2018? How do they connect with the Core Values of the MS Annual Conference: Love, Generosity, Justice, and Apprentice The HECM’s specific goals for the mission shares requested include providing a framework and support system for campus ministry in the state of Mississippi, supplying a Campus Ministry Consultant who connects, trains, and equips the ministers, and financially supporting those who are in the field every day taking the gospel of Jesus Christ to our Mississippi college students. Through these goals love, generosity, justice, and apprenticeship are employed. It does not take long after walking into one of our campus ministries to truly feel the love of Christ. Students experience unconditional love from peers whom they have built a relationship with 98 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) as well as those they just met. We learn in scripture that we love because he first loved us. This is the motto that flows through our Wesley Foundations. Love is the motivating factor that drives our campus ministers to continue on the path of reaching out to students, reserving judgement, and continuing to provide a place where students will be accepted. It is in the spirit of love that students are most able to receive the gospel as it is shared with them. No doubt when you experience the situations where campus ministers give of themselves, you are convinced they are some of the most generous people you will meet. They invest hours talking to students about serious situations as well as conversations which build relationships. They change tires, find ways to pay for students groceries and tuition when their loans and grants fall through, set up shuttle services for students without a vehicle, use their Wesley’s as a clothing and food pantry for students who are struggling, buy diapers for those who find themselves as single parents, connect students with local churches so they can experience a church community of faith, and the list goes on and on. Generosity also appears in through board members who give and serve faithfully as well as local churches which provide meals, finances, vans, Bible study teachers, and more. These generous acts fall right into setting the example for students to live out justice on their campuses whether it is setting up a race to earn money for battered women, or developing a support group for those struggling with addictions, to tutoring kids in an afterschool program who do not have parents willing to invest in their education. Students follow the example of Jesus they see taught in their Wesley Foundation and gain great support from their Wesley Foundation friends and minister. As students become more involved on a leadership level in their Wesley Foundation, they receive the opportunity to experience apprenticeship. Most units have a formal intern program where students work with the campus minister in leadership at the Wesley Foundation. All of our units have a leadership team where students are able to learn and grow as leadership is modeled by the campus minister as well as upperclassmen, and they are able to lead in ministry on their campus. Rust College Established in 1866 by the Freedmen’s Aid Society of the Methodist Church on a former slave auction site. Rust is the oldest one of 11 Historically Black Colleges and Universities established after the Civil War by the Method-ist Church still in existence today serving more than 1,000 students annually from Mississippi, 22 states and 4 foreign countries. Rust’s Mission continues to be in tune with the church’s overall philosophy – “doing no harm, doing good and staying in love with Jesus Christ” as we serve the young people who look to Rust as their bridge to a better tomorrow through education. Rust College Religious Life is a diverse community providing the administration, faculty, staff and students sacred space to be fellow travelers on a journey of faith that leads to transformation of the individual and the world. The Office of the Chaplain oversees religious life activities, coordinates training for student ministers, and provides counseling for administration, faculty, staff, and students. Informed by Christian tradition, Rust College religious life strives to be an ambassador for Jesus Christ to a diverse higher education community. Grounded in the Wesleyan tradition, religious life is the place where “Tomorrow’s Leaders are Students Today.” Students who will be and do “all the good they can, by all the means they can, in all the ways they can, in all the places they can, at all the times they can to all the people they can, for as long as they can.” Highlights for 2017-2018 year include: ■ The College ended the 2017-2018 fiscal year with a balanced budget for the 52nd consecutive year. We are on target to close the 2018-19 Fiscal Year with balanced operations. ■ Ms. Irah Gates, a junior Sociology major, Memphis, Tennessee was selected Student Ambassador for the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities. ■ Rust College received a grant for $80,000 from the Hearin Foundation to support needy students seeking financial aid. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 99

■ Dr. Alisea McLeod, Assistant Professor in Humanities, received the Humanities Teacher of the Year award. ■ Rust College Mass Communication Instructor, Mrs. Sharon Goodman-Hill, and senior student, Mr. William Robinson were Higher Education Appreciation Day - Working for Academic Excellence (HEADWAE) recipients. ■ Rust College hosted Mr. Thomas W. Dortch, Jr., Chairman of the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame (NBCAHF) Foundation Lecture series from Atlanta, Georgia. Speakers were Jamila Mustafa, MTV, BET Networks, IHeart Media, and ESPN Host; Hank Stewart, Author/Poet; Anta Sal-lah Njie, and Stevie Baggs, Jr., Speaker/Author former NFL Player. ■ Our frugal fiscal practices continue to keep us financially sound. For the last 50 years, Rust College has had a policy of only building “debt-free” non-income producing buildings. As a result of this pol-icy, Rust has long term debts less than $1.5 million related to residential hall construction and reno-vated in 1990. We actively recruit foundations, corporations, alumni and friends for scholarship grants to help underwrite the tuition cost of our students who must have financial support to get and stay in school. During the 2018-19 fiscal year, 94% of our students received aid to cover tuition and fees. Our text book- use system assists us in keeping our tuition and fees to a minimum. For example, in 2012 tuition, room, board, books and fees totaled $12,150 annually. In 2018 the total cost is $14,200 which amounts to an increase of only $2,050 over a six-year period As you, our friends of the United Methodist Church, continue to uphold your promise of educational opportunity established many years ago, we, the members of the Rust College family, will uphold the promise made by our founder, Rev. A. C. McDonald in 1866, “to do not hothouse work” but will work to build men and women morally, spiritually and academically sound. We are thankful to you for your prayers and financial support. Your continued support is essential as we endeavor to build a stronger legacy for this generation and those in years to come who will look to Rust and our great church for higher educational opportunities. The College expresses thanks for the dedication and leadership of the following Trustees from the Mississippi Annual Conference: Mr. John W. Johnson, Mr. Charles Leggett, Dr. Joe May, Mr. C. F. Brittenum, Mr. Jimmy Brown, Reverend Zachary Beasley, Reverend Jeff Tollison, Dr. Earnest L. Henry, Dr. Joe Bailey, Mr. Ted Moll, Dr. Mary N. Mosley, Mr. John McCarty, and Bishop James E. Swanson. In addition to the Trustees listed above from Mississippi, the following persons serve on the Rust College Board of Trustees: Mr. Larry Anderson, Dr. Ken Bedell, Mrs. Margaret Borgen, Mr. Thomas Brown, Dr. Pearlene Carter, Mr. Barkese Dalton, Dr. Darrell Ezell, Bishop Laurie Haller, Mr. George Holden, Dr. Cynthia Bond Hopson, Mrs. Patricia Bruce-Lowe, Bishop William T. McAlilly, Dr. George Menshik, Dr. Cora Norman, Dr. Dorthy Pennington, Dr. F. C. Richardson, Ms. Andris Y. Salter, Mrs. Cecelia W. Sawyer, Mr. Gary Shorb, Rev. Dr. Deborah B. Smith, Dr. David Swinton, Dr. Barbara Thompson, Rev. Dr. Barrie Tritle, Reverend Robert Ward, Mr. Vernon Winfrey, and Dr. Jerry Young.

D. Residency in Ministry

According to the 2016 Book of Discipline, “Provisional members are on trial in preparation for membership in full connection in the Annual Conference as deacons or elders. They are on probation as to character, servant leadership, and effectiveness in ministry” ¶327. To support this preparation, the Residency in Ministry program fills the following requirement: “during the provisional period, arrangements shall be offered by the Board of Ordained Ministry for all provisional members to be involved in a residency curriculum that extends theological education by using covenant groups and mentoring to support the practice and work of their ministry as servant leaders, to contemplate the grounding of ordained ministry, and to understand covenant ministry in the life of the conference” ¶326. 100 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

The intention of RIM is to create a supportive environment for provisional clergy as they continue to move toward ordination in the MS Annual Conference. Four stated outcomes of Residency in Ministry as adopted by the Residency in Ministry Council: 1. Creating community among clergy 2. Holistic spiritual formation, 3. Theological reflection, 4. A bridge to full connection (including practical ministry skills for the local church, district, and Annual Conference). Each resident will participate in peer groups, meet with a clergy mentor, and receive two Lay On-Site visits during their residency. Additionally the residents will participate in the Formation Seminar on a yearly basis as planned and implemented by the RIM Council. Other requirements may be included per the Board of Ordained Ministry and the RIM Council. The 2018-2019 Residency in Ministry program was a success. We as the Residency in Ministry Council appreciate the work of Trey Harper and Pamela Cameron as clergy staff leadership, and Dot Ellis and Angela Griffin as lay leadership staff and support. We continue in prayer for our Residents/Provisional Members and invite the members of the Annual Conference and all who read this report to do the same. E. Board of Ordained Ministry Report

Executive Committee Chair: Rev. Cary Stockett (2012-2020) Vice Chair: Rev. Maxine Bolden (2012-2020) Secretary: Rev. Steven Owens (2012-2020) Order of Deacons: Rev. Karie Sue McCaleb* Order of Elders: Rev. Maxine Bolden Fellowship of Associate Members and Local Pastors: Rev. Ricky Bishop (2016-2024) Director of Spiritual Leadership: Rev. Trey Harper (Ex-Officio) Conference Registrar: Dorothy Ellis (Ex-Officio) Associate Director of Ministerial Services: Rev. Pamela Cameron (Ex-Officio) Ex-Officio Board Members Director of the Center for Ministry: Rev. Paige Swaim-Presley Chair of Residency in Ministry: Rev. Anna Fleming-Jones Cabinet Representatives: Cynthia Cross, Paulette Buford-James Rolling off July 1, 2019 Todd Watson Sherry Johnson Bob Whiteside Jane Simmons Ever Jean Burt Allison Parvin 7/1/2012 - 7/1/2016 - 7/1/2020 Vicki Hughes-Johnson Cary Stockett Loye Ashton Cathy Stewart Linda Dixon* Amy Daniels Phil Sutphin Marty Wiseman Willie Williams Ernestine Varnado Robbie Murden David McCoy Steven Owens David Lowery Kevin Carter* Tommy Miller Lynn Mote Julie Collins Jimmy Criddle Roger Puhr 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 101

7/1/2013 - 7/1/2017 - 7/1/2021 Ricky James 7/1/2014 - 7/1/2018 - 7/1/2022 Scott Wright Darian Duckworth Bruce Case Gloria McKinney 7/1/2016 - 7/1/2020 - 7/1/2024 Albert Mosley Rachel Pitts Nancy Crews Ricky Bishop Todd Cross 7/1/2017 - 7/1/2021 - 7/1/2025 Amy Roller Smith Lilley* Walt Frazier 7/1/2018 - 7/1/2022 - 7/1/2026 Susannah Carr Chad Bowen Daniel Herring Johniel Henry Kristen Williams Mitch Cochran Terry Hilliard 7/1/2019 - 7/1/2023 - 7/1/2027* Nancy Chambers Chris Zirlott Vera Thomas Carl Griffin Cary Daniels Nicolet Bell Erin Hicks Chris McAlilly Linda Williams Gary Glazier Karie Sue McCaleb Ella Dedeaux Rochelle Minor John Evans Bobby McGill Joe May Conference Relations Committee: Walt Frazier, Chair Cathy Stewart, David Lowery, Steven Owens, Amy Roller, Smith Lilley Administrative Review Committee: Scott Larsen, Chair Principals: Ada Williams-Miller, Embra Jackson*, Eddie Lee Jones Alternates: Frank Newell*, Emily Sanford* Committee on Investigation Clergy: Stephen Sparks, Claire Dobbs, David Huffman, Joe Landrum* Laity: Joy Carr, Jean Reid Godwin, Jesse Ross Alternate Clergy: Bess Perrier, John Branning, Rickey Georgetown, Alternate Laity: Ben Witt, Vangela Wade, Dorothy Redd, Linda Norwood, York Craig, Taylor Cheeseman Residency in Ministry Council: Anna Fleming Jones, Chair Paige Swaim-Presley, CFM Will Dowling Reed McCaleb Dave Schultz Frank Newell Ella DeDeaux Emily Sanford F. Center for Ministry

Report will be added after 2019 AC Session

2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 103

Section VI

Faith Community Formation

Faith Community Formation Committee Report The Faith Community Formation Office and Committee is tasked with leading and assisting the Mississippi Conference of The United Methodist Church into a continuously expanding culture of vitality by developing and forming new faith communities and revitalizing existing churches by: 1. Assisting congregations in measuring the effectiveness and spiritual development in living into our Core Values (Love, Generosity, Justice and Apprenticeship) so churches can be resourced in the areas needed to become perfected in fulfilling God’s calling and 2. Identifying where the fields are ripe for the harvest of disciples and assessing, vetting and equipping qualified church planters so new congregations can be planted. Examples of how our ministry is making a difference are: New Faith Communities The Well at Lewisburg – A new church, led by Rev. Corey Truett, began at Lewisburg in June 2015 and chartered in January 2019. The summer of 2018 saw a 35% growth in attendance over the summer months of 2017. The Well has expanded into two Sunday services to reach more people and more than 50% of the church members are involved in small groups. The Bridge at D’iberville – In June 2015, a new church began, led by Rev. Leanne Burris. As of late fall 2018, the average weekly worship attendance was 70 and the average weekly small group attendance was 80. The church is reaching out to the schools, Latino community, and neighborhood shop owners. Additionally, The Bridge has started an online worship community using Facebook Live in order to reach a wider, diverse audience. Their building expansion, including the new kitchen area, was completed in September 2018. The Bridge received the Generosity Award at the 2018 Glory Sighting Banquet for tithing the most for non-chartered church. The Vine in Columbia – The Vine, led by Rev Ryan Freeman, began with a vision to reach unchurched people of all backgrounds through a skating rink ministry. Wednesday night Bible Study averages 33 people; Sunday worship (two services) averages 70; and monthly outreach service has an average of 156, reaching unchurched people in the community. After two years of study and analysis, plans are continue to move forward in establishing a new church in the Gluckstadt area. Visioning has been done and plans have been put in place to establish a United Methodist new faith community in this growing, vibrant area of Madison County. Church Revitalization The Millennial Discipleship and Digital Evangelism programs at the Oxford University Methodist Church, led by Revs. Eddie Rester and Chris McAlilly are two programs created for young emerging adults to help them explore God’s call in the laboratory of the church. Plans are to add seven more church sites this year and to replicate throughout Mississippi in the coming years. More than 40 churches have completed the Readiness 360 survey, and 12 of those churches participated in the year-long Readiness 360+ revitalization training. The Readiness 360 survey helps a congregation listen to itself in order to create new and vital ministry action plans. The Mississippi Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church has entered into a partnership with Fresh Expressions US. Led by the Faith Community Formation Office, the hope is to illumi- nate the Mississippi Conference churches to the possibilities of what can happen when you minister to the people where you find them – taking the church to the people. As a partner, the Mississippi Conference has a seat at the table of Fresh Expressions US. Since the fall of 2018, the FCF team has hosted three Vision Days for introduction to the concepts of Fresh Expressions in Batesville, Jackson 104 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) and Biloxi; a Dinner Church Experience in Louisville; and a Pioneer Learning Community training in Jackson. In November 2018, the Conference FCF Team was blessed to host the Route 122 Transformation Network Conference, a national meeting for faith community development. The keynote speaker was Rev. Dr. Tod Bolsinger, vice president for vocation and formation at Fuller Theological Seminary and author of Canoeing the Mountains: Christian Leadership in Uncharted Territory. This event had the honor of being the largest attended in its history and was open to all clergy and lay people. The Conference FCF team has a vision for the future of the United Methodist Churches in Mississippi to include pockets of new faith communities, Fresh Expressions, Dinner Churches and revitalized churches to reach previously unchurched people throughout the state. The hope is to: 1. Further strengthen and equip our district FCF teams for the mission of creating new faith communities and revitalizing existing faith communities; and to 2. Empower and equip lay people and clergy to live out the “Great Commission” to go and make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 105

Section VII

Episcopal Office

A. Episcopacy Committee Committee on Episcopacy Report 2019 The Committee on Episcopacy of the Mississippi Annual Conference meet to support Bishop James Swanson in his ministry as a Bishop of the United Methodist Church. Paragraph 637 of the Discipline directs this committee: ■ To support the bishop of the area in the oversight of the spiritual and temporal affairs of the Church, with special reference to the area where the bishop has presidential responsibility. ■ To be available to the bishop for counsel. ■ To assist in the determination of the episcopal needs of the area and to make recommendations to appropriated bodies. ■ To keep the bishop advised concerning conditions within the area as they affect relationships between the bishop and the people of the conference agencies. ■ To interpret to the people of the area and to conference agencies the nature and function of the episcopal office. ■ To engage in the annual consultation and appraisal of the balance of the bishop’s relationship and responsibilities to the area and annual conferences, the jurisdiction, general church boards and agencies, and other areas of specialized ministry, including, at all levels, concern for the inclusiveness of the Church and its ministry with respect to sex, race, and natural origin, and understanding and implementation of the consultation process in appointment-making. ■ To report needs for episcopacy leadership to the jurisdictional committee on episcopacy through the duly elected conference members of that committee. The committee is also a liaison between the Conference Committee on Trustees to make sure the episcopal residence is safe adequate, well maintained, and comfortable for the bishop and his family. Both lay and clergy persons from all over the Mississippi Conference are active on this committee. They include: Lay Clergy Sondra Bell Mattie Gibson Sandra Brown Ryan McGough Martin Butler Anna Flemings Jones Tim Crisler Lindsey Robinson Beth Hartness (Episcopal Residence) Danny Rowland Chris Howdeshel Connie Shelton (Cabinet Representative) Aubrey Lucas Emma Ward Lydia Roby LaToya Redd-Thomson Sallie Whiteside

We are pleased to represent the conference as we strive to fully support Bishop Swanson in his ministry. Respectfully submitted, Dr. Danny R. Rowland, Chairperson 106 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

B. Advocacy Reports Report of Advocacy Committee 2018-19 Advocacy continues to be a work of grace in our Annual conference. With the restructuring of how we practice advocacy various committees were moved under the Episcopal as extensions of that office, Advocacy committees include: Christian Unity and Interreligious Relationships Representatives are attending conferences during this year that will further empower the ongoing work of this commission. The United Methodist Ecumenical and Interreligious Training event in conjunction with the National Workshop on Christian Unity has provided opportunities to network across the United Methodist Church and with our ecumenical partners. The Mississippi Religious Leaders Conference is undergoing a season of reflection as to its future mission. The Mississippi Conference CUIR has partnered with several churches to sponsor the Mississippi Legislative Prayer Breakfast and engage in planning for the Unite Mississippi Rally. Rev. Warren Coile, chair Church and Society Church and Society continues to advocate and support efforts for justice, wholeness, and peacemaking among the clergy and lay people of Mississippi’s churches and communities through education and resourcing, action alerts, and collaboration. The first representative to attend the Young Adult Clergy forum in 2018 was Rev. Frank Newell. Rev. Lori Galambos attended that event in 2019. Plans are to conduct at least two district gatherings for ongoing education and training of laity and clergy in “Living our Principles.” We have also called for input into a revision of our Social Principles. Rev. Willis Britt, chair Commission on Religion and Race Commission on Religion and Race is continuing its work of building relationships and partnering across our state in an effort to promote unity. Representatives attended conferences with GCORR as this work moved forward. Under the direction of our bishop we have been actively building a relationship with Mission Mississippi to host sacred conversations, create action plans and seek racial reconciliation. Rev. Kathy A. Price, chair Commission on the Status and Role of Women Commission on Status and Role of Women continually seeks to help the church in the recognition of laity, clergy, adults and children as full and equal parts of God’s human family, embracing the diversity each person brings to the vitality of the church. The Commission seeks to provide resources for districts and local churches, to cast a vision for our Conference around issues of justice and advocacy in a holistic manner, and to send a COSROW representative from our Conference to training events that relate to its mission. Rev. Susannah Carr, chair Disability Disability Ministries Committee for the Mississippi Conference continues its work of advocacy, education, and empowerment for individuals and families with disabilities. In August 2017 participants attended the annual meeting of the Disability Ministry Committee of the UMC held at the General Board of Global Ministries in Atlanta. During this meeting, we studied, planned, and prayed together for local, conference and denominational level ministries with people with disabilities. We concluded our annual meeting with a disability awareness worship service followed by intensive workshops on disability. This worship service and conference was done in collaboration with the Candler School of Theology and promoted across our Southeastern Jurisdiction. Rev. Dr. Eric Pridmore, chair Peace with Justice We will continue to work in conjunction with the General Board of Church and Society and plan a Peace with Justice gathering. Rev. Bruce Case, chair 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 107

The Advocacy Committee along with Church and Society reiterated our churches stance on immigration during the country’s ongoing debate around immigration policy. From 2016 Book of Discipline, Social Principles ¶162 (H): Rights of Immigrants—We recognize, embrace, and affirm all persons, regardless of country of origin, as members of the family of God. We affirm the right of all persons to equal opportunities for employment, access to housing, health care, education, and freedom from social discrimination. We urge the Church and society to recognize the gifts, contributions, and struggles of those who are immigrants and to advocate for justice for all. We oppose immigration policies that separate family members from each other or that include detention of families with children, and we call on local churches to be in ministry with immigrant families. Each of these committees, under the leadership of Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr., seeks to undergird justice, equity, and dignity by valuing God’s image in every person. We continue to work for new partnerships and the renewal of established ones as we work toward justice. Each of the varied areas of Advocacy reflects the desire of fulfilling God’s preferred future for our Annual Conference. Faith filled action in the Mississippi Annual Conference will present an opportunity for us to become a parish of peace and advocacy because we as United Methodists are a people of advocacy. Rev. Warren Coile and Rev. Kathy A. Price Co-Conveners

2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 109

Section VIII

Other Reports Africa University Report Report will be added after 2019 AC Session

Boston University School of Theology Greetings from Boston University School of Theology (BUSTH) as we live together as disciples in uncertain times! Breaking News: ■ Students: We continue to increase and celebrate diversity in our student body, creating remarkable opportunities for in-depth exchanges and fruitful collaboration. ■ Faculty: We welcomed two amazing faculty this year: Shively Smith as Assistant Professor of New Testament, and Nicolette Manglos-Weber as Assistant Professor of Religion and Society. ■ Online Lifelong Learning: We are launching a new Online Lifelong Learning Program at the School, offering webinars, workshops, and reading groups for professional enrichment. ■ Scholarships: We continue our offer of free tuition to UMC registered candidates for ordained ministry, and we continue to build student scholarships and housing as a central campaign priority. New scholarships include the Korean Student and African Student Scholarships, and leadership fellowships for promising leaders: Raíces Latinas for Latinx leaders, Sacred Worth for leaders in the LGBTQIA+ community, Howard Thurman for African-American leadership, and Indigenous Studies Fellowships. ■ Faith and Ecological Justice Program: This new student program undertakes initiatives to increase ecological awareness, education, and activism in ecological justice. ■ Theology and the Arts Initiatives: Recent exhibits and events include “Moments in Time” and “Transcending Conflict.” ■ Grants: Henry Luce Foundation has awarded a 3-year grant to support the Educating Effective Chaplains Project. The grant supports work with other seminaries to develop models that can better prepare chaplains for effective ministry. ■ Website: After several years of planning, a new School website will launch in Fall semester 2019. Partnering for Ministry and Transformation: Preparing students for ministry means meaningful partnerships with the local spiritual community. ■ Creative Callings: Our vocational project is an exciting partnership with local churches, seeking to create “a culture of call.” It is sponsored through a grant from the Lilly Endowment. ■ Engagement with the UMC: Many of our students are delegates, project leaders and assistants, and class participants in General Conference 2019. ■ Congregational courses: The Continuing Scholar program offers current BUSTH courses to alums and local clergy as continuing education credit for a small fee per course. ■ Doctor of Ministry: The DMin in Transformational Leadership is soaring with lively student cohorts that are broadly ecumenical, culturally diverse, and global. The model includes intensives, online courses, and faculty mentoring. ■ Religion and Conflict Transformation Clinic: The Clinic provides internships and workshops that foster justice and peace-building. ■ Travel seminars: These courses engage students with immersion journeys to the Arizona-Mexican border, Israel and Palestine, Argentina, and other sites of learning and ministry. Attendees from the recent Serbia and Croatia Seminar presented to the 2018 Parliament of the World’s Religions in Toronto, Canada. 110 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

■ Ecumenical partnerships: We continue to build robust Communities of Learning with the Episcopal Church and United Church of Christ, and to develop new communities with the Unitarian Universalist and Baptist Churches. ■ Partnership with Hebrew College: Together we are able to enrich interreligious learning through joint courses and public events, and also co-sponsor The Journal of Interreligious Studies and State of Formation cohort of emerging leaders. Taking Action Globally And Locally: ■ Campus action: Work to improve accessibility and sustainability. BUSTH is the first certified Green School in BU, and participates actively in the Green Seminary Initiative. It has also been named as one of the “Seminaries that Change the World” for the second consecutive year. ■ Internships in global service and peacemaking: We provide internships that support students who engage in ministry with churches and service organizations across the world. Commitment To Justice: Celebrating differences while joining in action. ■ Faculty and students have led and participated in UMCOR; support efforts with victims of hurri- canes and fires; protests on behalf of Puerto Rico, Texas, and Florida; protests of white supremacist move- ments; services with immigrants and DACA young people; and ecumenical and interreligious witnesses for justice in the city of Boston. ■ Through student-led Town Hall meetings, the community has had deep conversations on issues that divide (including theological differences). We seek to foster respectful listening that builds community life and communal action. Other Notable News: ■ 2019 marks the 180th year of the School of Theology, originally founded as the Newbury Bible Institute in 1839. ■ Our major development campaign for BUSTH will end in September 2019, and we continue working toward grand success for the future of our School and the vitality of your ministries As BUSTH looks to the future, we celebrate transformational leaders of the United Methodist Church, who keep the word of Jesus Christ alive. Your living legacy and faithful witness give us hope and courage for the future. Mary Elizabeth Moore Dean, Boston University School of Theology Candler School of Theology For more than 100 years, Candler School of Theology at Emory University has prepared real people to make a real difference in the real world. Since our founding in 1914, more than 10,000 students have graduated from Candler, where they have been shaped as thoughtful, principled, and courageous leaders dedicated to transforming the world in the name of Jesus Christ. This is especially important to note amid the current uncertainty in our denomination. It is an honor and a privilege for Candler to be one of 13 official seminaries of The United Methodist Church. Yet true to the Methodist tradition of ecumenical openness, Candler has enthusiastically welcomed the entire Wesleyan family to our community for generations. Faculty, staff, and students from the AME Church, the AMEZ Church, the CME Church, Free Methodists, Nazarenes, and others have worked, worshiped, learned, and prayed alongside United Methodists, and have been a vital part of shaping Candler and our mission. This diversity has been a wonderful gift and a rich blessing. As we move forward from the Special Session of General Conference, we will continue to invite and welcome wholeheartedly those from all expressions of the Wesleyan tradition. Indeed, we will continue to welcome all those who follow Jesus Christ. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 111

Candler is also privileged to be one of seven graduate professional schools of Emory University in Atlanta. With the resources of a top-tier research institution and the reach of a global city, our students benefit from a rich academic and hands-on learning environment: The General Board of Global Ministries is in Atlanta, as are numerous public health, international development, and social service organizations. Candler’s intentional involvement with our surrounding community has contributed to our inclusion on a list of “Seminaries that Change the World” for six years running. In short, there is no better place to prepare for ministry that engages our major denominational priorities: developing leaders, starting and growing churches, ministry with the poor, and improving global health. In order to keep pace with the needs of the church and the world, Candler offers 16 degrees: six single degrees and ten dual degrees pairing theology with bioethics, business, international development, law, public health, and social work. Our Doctor of Ministry degree is 90 percent online, so students can remain in their places of ministry and immediately apply to their context what they learn in class. Our Teaching Parish program allows eligible United Methodist students to serve as pastors in local churches while they’re enrolled—they earn a salary as they earn course credit and pastoral experience, plus they are mentored by an experienced United Methodist elder. Candler’s student body continues to reflect the diversity and breadth of the Christian faithful, with an enrollment of 453, reflecting 51 percent women, 39 percent people of color (U.S.), and a median age of 27 among MDivs. Students represent 44 denominations, with half coming from the Methodist family. Candler has a deep commitment to alleviating student debt and promoting financial literacy. In 2018-2019, we awarded $5.8 million in Candler scholarships, with 100 percent of MDiv students receiving aid. Plus, our comprehensive “Faith & Finance” program teaches money management skills that serve our students now and will continue to serve them—and the churches they lead—well into the future. Candler draws considerable strength and inspiration from its relationship with The United Methodist Church. Our ability to fulfill our mission of educating faithful and creative leaders for the church’s ministries throughout the world depends upon your prayers, partnership, and support. Thank you for the countless ways you advance this vital ministry in the life of our denomination. Visit us in person or online at candler.emory.edu to see firsthand how Candler prepares real people to make a real difference in the real world. Jan Love, Mary Lee Hardin Willard Dean and Professor of Christianity and World Politics Candler School of Theology Duke Divinity School In August of 2018, L. Gregory Jones, the Ruth W. and A. Morris Williams Jr. Distinguished Professor of Theology and Christian Ministry, began serving as dean following Elaine Heath’s departure. Jones, who earned M.Div. and Ph.D. degrees from Duke, was previously dean of Duke Divinity from 1997-2010. Jones was asked to lead the school in enhancing its ties with church constituencies, strength- ening its academic credibility, attending to cultural challenges, and addressing financial challenges. As he assumed the role of dean, Jones noted, “We need to build bridges across various divides in the church, the academy, and across society. Christian faith can play a significant role in this bridge building.” This academic year Duke Divinity School has been working steadily on these tasks. Admissions: Duke Divinity School welcomed an entering class of approximately 200 new students from 30 different states and several countries, including China, South Korea, the UK, and Zimbabwe. Our Master of Divinity program remains central to our identity, enrolling 112 students. Our Master of Theological Studies and Master of Arts in Christian Practice programs received enrollments of 24 students and 14 students, respectively. The Master of Theology (nine students), Doctor of Ministry (22 students), and Doctor of Theology (four students) all had strong enrollment. Our new Certificate in Theology and Health Care saw enrollment double this year to eight students. The ages of students enrolled in the M.Div. program range from 21 to 69, with a median age of 23, and students from minority 112 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

groups comprised more than 22 percent of incoming M.Div. students, with black students making up 15 percent. Across all degree programs at the Divinity School, 32 percent of the incoming class identified as a race/ethnicity other than white (an increase from 26 percent last year). Black students made up 18 percent of all students; Hispanic students, two percent; Asian students, seven percent; and American Indian students, one percent. For the first time, the majority of students entering the Doctor of Ministry program identify as an ethnic group other than white. Female students made up 51 percent of incoming M.Div. students, while males were 49 percent. It was only the second time in school history that the incoming cohort of M.Div. students had a female majority (2005 being the other year). Across the degree programs, 42 percent of students in the incoming class were female, and 58 percent were male. There were 23 denominations represented in the M.Div. entering class, with 55 percent affiliated with the United Methodist Church (up from 41 percent last year). Nondenominational students made up 17 percent of the new M.Div. students; Baptists, eight percent; and Anglican-Episcopal, three percent. New Faculty: Several new faculty members joined the Divinity School community in July 2018, demonstrating Duke Divinity School’s ongoing commitment to the church, the academy, and the church’s witness in the world. ■ Christopher Beeley, the Jack and Barbara Bovender Professor of Theology, Anglican Studies, and Ministry and director of the Anglican Episcopal House of Studies, is an Anglican priest and a founding member of the Episcopal Gathering of Leaders. He has ministered in parishes in Texas, Indiana, Virginia, and Connecticut. Prior to joining the Duke faculty, Beeley taught for 16 years at Yale Divinity School. ■ David Emmanuel Goatley, research professor of theology and black church studies and director of the Office of Black Church Studies, is ordained in the National Baptist Convention, USA, and serves in leadership capacities with the NAACP, Lott Carey Baptist Foreign Mission Society, and the Baptist World Alliance and the World Council of Churches. He was for 23 years the executive director of the Lott Carey Baptist Foreign Mission Society. ■ Jan Holton, associate professor of the practice of pastoral theology and care, is an ordained elder in the Virginia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. Holton most recently served in an extension ministry with Integrated Refugee and Immigrant Services (IRIS) in New Haven, Conn., and was a member of the faculty at Yale Divinity School from 2006 to 2015. ■ Patrick T. Smith, associate research professor of theological ethics and bioethics and a senior fellow at the Kenan Institute for Ethics at Duke University, is also associate faculty with Trent Center for Bioethics, Humanities, and the History of Medicine. Smith is licensed and ordained with the National Baptist Convention, USA and comes to Duke from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and Harvard Medical School. United Methodists: Professor Kate Bowler’s memoir, Everything Happens for a Reason: And Other Lies I’ve Loved, made The New York Times’ hardcover nonfiction bestseller list and received significant national recognition in mainstream and Christian media. The related podcast, “Everything Happens with Kate Bowler,” returns for a second season with new episodes on how people have faced dark times in their lives. Bowler, Sujin Pak, and Edgardo Colon-Emeric, all United Methodist faculty members, received tenure and promotion to the rank of associate professor in recent months. On July 1, 2018, Pak began serving as vice dean of academic affairs and Colon-Emeric started as director of the Center for Reconciliation. Jeff Conklin-Miller began serving as director of the Methodist House of Studies at the same time. Beginning February 1, 2019, Laceye Warner fills the new role of associate dean for Wesleyan engagement. Looking to the Future: The Divinity School continues to discern fresh strategies to respond faithfully and wisely to the changing dynamics of the church, the academy, and the world. An example of our strategic work is a new focus throughout the school on Thriving Communities. Through this focus we are concentrating on the centrality of healthy congregations and gifted pastors in cultivating thriving communities. This approach offers opportunities to build on Duke Divinity School’s traditional strengths, but in a new key. We look forward to cultivating even stronger synergies among our work with the Clergy 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 113

Health Initiative, Thriving Rural Communities, Hispanic House of Studies, and a revised Field Education program (all generously supported by The Duke Endowment), alongside longstanding commitments to the Office of Black Church Studies, the Anglican/Episcopal and Baptist Houses of Study, and initiatives in Leadership Education; Theology and the Arts; and Theology, Medicine, and Culture. Duke Divinity School is grateful for the strong ties that bind “the people called Methodist,” and we look forward to serving together as we bear witness to God’s future with hope. Respectfully submitted L. Gregory Jones, Dean, Duke Divinity School

General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) Report As the leadership development agency of The United Methodist Church, the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) builds capacity for United Methodist lay and clergy leaders to discover, claim and flourish in Christ’s calling in their lives. The agency creates connections and provides resources to aid in recruitment, education, professional development and spiritual formation. Every elder, deacon and licensed local pastor benefits from our training and candidacy programs. Many young adults find help in clarifying God’s call in their lives through our discernment opportunities. Through its Office of Strategic Leadership, GBHEM refined plans for a center for leadership development and spiritual formation. It is drawing on research to plan the expansion of leadership training offerings to churches and communities through a range of means such as face-to-face training, online conferencing, consulting, and recommending resources and experts. The Division of Ordained Ministry (DOM), using extensive research on the components of effective ministry, introduced a new formation process, Effective Ministry 360 (EM360), which guides pastors and congregations to plan and execute mission and ministry objectives. EM360 also offers assessment modules for candidacy, district superintendents, eight-year clergy assessment and Course of Study. DOM provides introduction and orientation sessions about the process. The Division of Higher Education (DHE) has initiated research to inform a “leadership pipeline” process for university leaders on United Methodist campuses. Among the books GBHEM published this year, “Missio Dei and the United States: Toward a Faithful United Methodist Witness” (book and study guide) exhibits the best of church and academy collaboration. Contributors explore how the church can reengage its Wesleyan heritage as it participates in God’s mission. The Office of Loans and Scholarships announced an increase in the maximum amount of money United Methodist students can borrow to pursue their education. The annual maximum is $10,000, with a lifetime maximum of $40,000. On average, the agency distributes $5.5 million in scholarships annually. Partnering with churches and institutions, GBHEM has promoted projects, programs, initiatives, education and leadership development in various cultural contexts within United Methodism and in pan-Methodist relationships. The agency expanded the Methodist Global Education Fund for Leadership Development, supported the work of regional networks with the International Association of Methodist Schools, Colleges, and Universities, and established Regional Hubs for Leadership, Education and Development. In 2018, hubs were active in nations in Africa, Asia, Europe and England, North America and South America. Memphis Theological Seminary Report will be added after 2019 AC Session 114 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare At Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare (MLH), our mission is to collaborate with patients and their families to be the leader in providing high quality, cost-effective patient and family-centered care. Services are provided in a manner which supports the health ministries and Social Principles of the United Methodist Church to benefit the communities we serve. MLH continues to make an impact on the health of the Mid-South, both inside and outside of hospital walls. Leading MLH in that effort is our President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Ugwueke, who is driving the organization to new heights, clinically, financially, and faithfully. As part of that work in 2018, Michael appointed Rev. Dr. Albert Mosley to be the new Senior Vice President of Faith and Health, which oversees all of our clinical chaplaincy work, Volunteer Services, the Employee Assistance Program and Dennis H. Jones Living Well Network, the Clergy Coaching Network, Clinical Pastoral Education, the Center of Excellence in Faith and Health, the Humanitarian Fund, United Methodist Annual Conference connections, and many other initiatives and projects. That body of work is already growing, as Dr. Mosley announced early in 2019 that the Faith and Health Division will be renamed the Office of Mission Integration, and Dr. Mosley will assume the title of Chief Mission Integration Officer. These new emphases for the division and its leadership represent an exciting innovation in all facets of MLH’s work, its clinical excellence, its community engagement, and its faith-based foundations. Mission Integration will offer guidance and direction for the integration of MLH’s mission, vision, values and guiding behaviors, especially from the perspective of the Social Principles of the United Methodist Church. Additionally, Mission Integration will ensure that the relationship with the United Methodist Church, and relevant social, ethical, and pastoral teachings, are understood and integrated appropriately and con- sistently across the entire system. Last year, MLH celebrated its Centennial, having first opened its doors to patients in 1918. We recognized the Centennial in many ways, including with our first ever “MLH Sunday”! In honor of the 100 years since the United Methodist Church started a healthcare organization in Memphis, we joined congregations all throughout the area to worship, pray, and give thanks together, remembering all that God is doing through MLH. We are continuing that practice with MLH Sunday 2019, which we want to celebrate with you on Sunday, June 23, 2019, coinciding with our system’s birthday. We will also be visiting and speaking to congregations on other dates throughout the year. Additionally, our associates also connect with the UMC through connectional boards and agencies, campus ministry work at the UT Health Science Center, and through free health screenings that we offer throughout the year to conferences, congregations, and community events. We also have pursued several grants to expand our work in the community, partnering with the Urban Child Institute, the Christian Community Foundation, CIGNA, the Tennessee Department of Health, and others. As a result, MLH launched “My Sister’s Keeper” in 2018 as a way of expanding the capacity of identified and designated black women leaders and increasing knowledge of accessible health services that positively impact health outcomes for black women in the Mid-South region. MLH also established a partnership with BookNook Learning in 2018 in order to provide literacy education to 800 at-risk and underserved students in Shelby County, leveraging existing partnerships with local faith communities to implement the literacy program. One of the founding partner congregational sites for that program is Longstreet UMC in south Memphis, also a partner site for Project Transformation Tennessee. Further, understanding the important role of faith leaders in spiritual, mental, and physical health of our communities, MLH recently launched its first community-based Clinical Pastoral Education program for 13 pastors serving congregations in our most low-income communities. We are deeply appreciative of the support of the three annual conferences who birthed us and continue to be vital partners. The healing ministry of Christ continues to be at our center. Michael Ugwueke President and Chief Executive Officer 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 115

United Theological Seminary 459 men and women are being equipped as faithful, fruitful pastors and Christian leaders for the Church: i 292 Masters Students 167 Doctoral Students Third largest United Methodist seminary in the United States ii Founded nearly 150 years ago by Bishop Milton Wright, father of famed aviators Wilbur and Orville Wright, United has continued that spirit of innovation through: Online degrees: 98% of master’s students have taken one or more course online while studying at United. United students live in 39 different states. Week-long intensives fulfill UMC residency requirements. Live Interactive Virtual Education (LIVE): New grant brings the latest technology in virtual education. Participate in on-campus courses via webcam and enjoy live lectures and real-time discussion with faculty and peers. Doctor of Ministry Degree: Become a doctor for the Church, addressing a real problem or challenge in your church or community. Study under a mentor who is an expert in their field and learn alongside a small group of dedicated peers. 3-year program that allows you to complete project as you go, leading to a 78% program graduation rate in 2017 (vs. 54% average among other seminaries) iii Practical education designed to resource the Church: The majority of United faculty have pastored churches. 91% of entering United students are already serving in ministry, bringing that context to the classroom. A focus on Church Renewal: 165 Course of Study students iv 42 students in the Hispanic Christian Academy (3-year Spanish online course of ministry program for Hispanic lay pastors and leaders) iv Certificates in Church Planting, Disability Ministry, and Supervision Academic AND Spiritual Growth: 95% of students say the United community supports both their academic and spiritual growth. v Diverse Christian Views: Over 30 different denominations 19 international students from 15 different countries 96% of students feel their views are respected in the classroom/seminary community and say they have been taught to respect the views of others. 47% of students who reported are African-American, 43% Caucasian and 10% represent other ethnicities We thank God for the men and women coming to United because God has called them to serve the least and the lost. We pray as the Lord Jesus instructed his disciples saying, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest” (Luke 10:2). Dr. Kent Millard, President i Data represents Fall 2018 headcount enrollment, unless otherwise specified. ii ATS 2017-2018 Annual Data Tables. Data represents Fall 2017 headcount enrollment. iii ATS 2017-2018 Strategic Information Report for United Theological Seminary. Graduation rates represent the percentage of students who were able to complete their chosen degree within a specified period of time which approximates two times the normal length of the degree. 116 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) iv Data represents unduplicated headcount enrollment in the 2017-2018 academic year. v United Theological Seminary 2017-2018 Student Satisfaction Survey, in which 30% of students responded.

Wesley Theological Seminary Annual Conference Report Report will be added after 2019 AC Session

Wood College, Incorporated Report will be added after 2019 AC Session 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 117

Section IX

Historical Section will be added after 2019 AC Session

2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 119

Section X The 2019 Session of the Mississippi AnnualThe 2019 Conference Session of the Mississippi Annual Conference 2019 Session Speakers Rev. Dr. Cynthia Wilson Executive Director of Worship Resources at United Methodist Discipleship Ministries Worship/Music Leader Rev. Dr. Cynthia Wilson supervises and guides staff in developing resources and training events with a primary focus on music, liturgy and preaching. Wilson is an ordained deacon under extension ministry appointment in the Great Plains Annual Conference. Prior to joining the staff of Discipleship Ministries, Wilson served as assistant vice-president of Student Life and dean of Students at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. At Garrett-Evangelical, she launched the Center for Music and Worship in the Black Church Experience, a one-of-a-kind, North American Institute that provides training in the sacred music of the Black Church and beyond for musicians and worship leaders. A talented vocalist, Wilson is a Grammy nominee and was noted the “Best Female Vocalist” at the Gospel Choice Awards held in Atlanta, Georgia in 1998. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in music education from Dillard University; a Master of Sacred Music degree from Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University and a Doctor of Philosophy in Liturgical Studies from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary.

Monya Logan Minister of Worship and the Arts at St. Luke United Methodist Church in Dallas, Texas Worship Leader For over 25 years Logan has overseen a talented and dedicated staff, providing leadership to the worship, arts and media team. In great demand for her keyboard, conducting and composing skills, she has twice served as chief organist for the General Conference of The United Methodist Church, on the editorial team for the African American Songbook, “Zion Still Sings” and has served as worship leader, clinician and consultant throughout the connection. In addition to her service to The United Methodist Church, Logan is the music director for New Arts Six, a performance ensemble devoted to the preservation of African American music, especially Negro Spirituals. Logan is a member of the National Association of Negro Musicians, and the recipient of the Dallas Metroplex Musicians Association 2015 Musician of the Year and Urban League of Greater Dallas Torch Award. She has taught at her alma mater, the Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts Magnet. Logan attended Oberlin College Conservatory of Music and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University. 120 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Rev. Jessica Moffatt Lead Pastor of First United Methodist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma Preaching Opening Worship Service – June 5, 1:30 p.m. Preaching Ordination Service – June 7, 7:00 p.m. Moffatt attended Southern Methodist University and the University of Tulsa, where she received her bachelor’s degree. She received a Master of Divinity degree from Candler School of Theology at Emory University. Upon graduation, Jessica also completed the graduate degree program of the Chateau de Bossey in Geneva, Switzerland where she worked with the World Council of Churches and the Ecumenical Institute in the area of International Church Relations, addressing intercultural issues of race, violence and poverty. Her expertise is in the area of local church urban and community ministries. At First United Methodist Church in Tulsa she served 12 years in community ministries, she helped the congregation launch diverse hands-on ministries beyond the walls of the church, deploying more than 1,000 members into the community in more than 30 types of new ministries. She co-authored the book, “Equipping the Saints: Mobilizing the Laity for Ministry.” Moffatt has served on the Oklahoma Annual Conference Board of Church and Society, mission strategy team, annual conference council, board of ordained ministry, new people new places team, commission on the status and role of women and served as chair of the annual conference re-structuring committee. Her daughter, Hannah Birney is married to Will Birney.

Dr. Claire Sterk President of Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia Speaking at Laity Luncheon – Friday, June 7, 12:00 p.m. Sterk has achieved international recognition for her work on addiction and infectious diseases, specifically HIV/AIDS, and for her contributions to our understanding of community engagement and the empowerment of women as responses to complex social and health disparities. An innovative and game-changing higher education leader, Sterk began her role as president on September 1, 2016. Since that time, she has already made significant gains for the university, deepening Emory’s ties with the City of Atlanta and launching a strategic framework that promises to unify the university’s nine schools and colleges under a shared mission of discovery and service for the common good. In 2018, Sterk was elected to the National Academy of Medicine, recognized both for her pioneering public health scholarship and for her distinctive voice as a global thought leader in higher education. In both roles, Sterk has emphasized the choices and responsibilities of research universities and their real-world impact. She is the author of three books and more than 125 peer-reviewed articles. A native of the Netherlands, Sterk earned her Ph.D. in sociology from Erasmus Universiteit in Rotterdam and a doctorandus degree in medical anthropology from the Universiteit of Utrecht. She completed her undergraduate education at the Vrije Universieit in Amsterdam.

Dr. Herbert Marbury Associate Professor of Hebrew Bible at Vanderbilt University Teaching Morning Bible Study – June 6-8, 8:00 a.m. A fifth generation Methodist minister, Marbury holds a Ph.D. in Religion from Vanderbilt University, and a Master of Divinity from Gammon Theological Seminary. He spent his undergraduate years at Emory University studying English and African American Studies. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 121

An ordained elder in the North Georgia Conference, Marbury has taught Hebrew and Biblical Interpretation at American Baptist College and served as a mentor in the Doctor of Ministry Program at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio for the program group “The Black Church and Social and Civic Empowerment.” In 2006, Marbury joined the faculty at Vanderbilt in Nashville, Tenn. where he researches and writes on Old Testament, Hebrew, Biblical Hermeneutics and Black Religion. Marbury’s most recent publication, Pillars of Cloud and Fire: The Politics of Exodus in African American Biblical Interpretation (New York University Press, 2015), combines his interests by examining ways that African Americans from the antebellum period to the Black Power era turned to the book of Exodus to navigate paths toward freedom.

Rev. Dr. Embra Jackson Starkville District Superintendent in the Mississippi Conference Preaching Memorial Service – June 7, 10:30 a.m. Rev. Dr. Embra Jackson has served as a local pastor, administrative assistant to Bishop Hope Morgan Ward and currently serves as the Starkville District Superintendent. He also served as executive director of the United Methodist Metro Ministers in Jackson; chaplain of Hospice Ministries, Inc. in Ridgeland; instructor at Wood College in Mathiston and as a teacher in Starkville Public Schools. Jackson graduated in 1974, Cum Laude from Tougaloo College in Jackson with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. In 1979, he graduated from the University of Mississippi in Oxford with a Master of Public Administration and in 1985 he graduated with a Master of Divinity as an honor graduate from Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta. Additionally, in 2003 he received a Doctorate of Ministry. Jackson possess ecclesiastical endorsement from the Board of Higher Education and Ministry. He is a certified coach in the International Coach Federation and CoachNet and currently a Spiritual Leadership Institute apprentice. Rev. Jackson is married to Rosia Jackson. They have four children and four grandchildren.

Bishop James E. Swanson Sr. Mississippi Conference Resident Bishop Closing Worship – June 8, 11:00 a.m. Bishop James Edward Swanson Sr. began his tenure in the Mississippi Conference September 1, 2012 with his first public appearance one day earlier to the conference’s Seashore District. He went there to be with those affected by Hurricane Isaac, which made landfall on August 28, 2012, causing additional devastation to Mississippi coastal communities recovering from Hurricane Katrina seven years earlier. Swanson listened to the people of Mississippi and discovered values deep within their hearts—love, generosity, justice and apprenticeship—thus, becoming the Core Four Values of the Mississippi Conference. It is from this Core Four that the churches seek to center their unique ministries. Swanson was elected a bishop of The United Methodist Church during the 2004 Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference. He was assigned to the Holston Conference and served there for eight years. Under his leadership, the Sudan Mission initiated. The number of United Methodist congregations in Sudan grew from three to 30 between 2006 and 2012. Bishop Swanson is married to Delphine Yvonne Ramsey Swanson. They have the joy of being parents to six adult children: Karen (Earl Jones Jr.), James Edward Swanson Jr. (Yaki), Shondell Swanson (Angela), Carlton Eugene Swanson (Ivis), Janae (Vernon Brown) and Joshua Emile’ Swanson (LaShay). The Swansons are blessed with 15 grandchildren.

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Section XI Resolutions and Petitions Resolutions A. Regular 1. Prayer WHEREAS, JESUS is The Supreme Model of praying to GOD THE FATHER (Matthew 6:9-13; Luke 5:12-16; John 17:1-26), and WHEREAS, JESUS paid the price of time of praying to GOD THE FATHER, morning and evening (Mark 1:35; Luke 6:12), and WHEREAS, the praying of JESUS TO GOD THE FATHER shows victories in The Kingdom of God (Matthew 14:19-21; Mark 5:1-20; John 11:38-45), and WHEREAS, JESUS shows us to be persistent in praying to GOD THE FATHER (Matthew 7:7-11; Luke 18:1-8), and WHEREAS, THE HOLY SPIRIT and JESUS pray to GOD THE FATHER in our behalf (Romans 8:26; 8:34), and WHEREAS, faithful praying by the disciples of JESUS, His mother, His brothers, and some devoted women helped to spark a flaming Pentecost and powerful Church (Acts 1:12-14; 2:1-47), and WHEREAS, praying to GOD THE FATHER as JESUS prayed is a way of showing dependence upon the HOLY SPIRIT (Luke 4:1-5), and WHEREAS, Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr would welcome our prayers for his many needs and for his family, and WHEREAS, all our clergy with their families, all our laity with their families, and all our children and youth are standing in need of praying, and WHEREAS so many of our clergy, congregations and communities are struggling for the devastation of flooding and storms, and WHEREAS, the vital power of prayer has long been a tradition and discipline of all of those clergy and lay whose lives have been influenced by Rev. Johnny A. Dinas, who historical has presented this petition, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: 1. That we continue our 12:00 o’clock noon daily prayer time for The United Methodist Church in Mississippi and beyond; whether our prayers are several seconds, minutes or longer in THE NAME OF JESUS: and that we depend upon THE HOLY SPIRIT to direct us in our praying for THE BODY OF CHRIST, and 2. That we earnestly ask our HEAVENLY FATHER’S help for the continued recovery and restoration of our brothers, sisters, youth, children, and churches effected by the many storms, and 3. That we ask our pastors to inform The Church briefly from time to time about the 12:00 o’clock hour, urging their praying, and 4. That any time during the last two weeks prior to Annual Conference each pastoral charge have some type of prayer meeting GLORIFYING GOD THE FATHER, GOD THE SON, AND GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT: asking His help as we face Annual Conference with faith, hope, and love; and to give power to live the life of CHRIST in the world. Rev. Arthur R. (Trey) Harper, III Director of Spiritual Leadership 124 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

2. Housing/Rental Allowance For Retired and Disabled Ministers WHEREAS, the religious denomination known as The United Methodist Church has and functions through ministers of the Gospel who are ordained or licensed; and WHEREAS, the practice of The United Methodist Church is to provide a parsonage or a rental allowance as part of the gross compensation for each of its active ordained or licensed ministers; and WHEREAS, pensions paid to retired and disabled ordained or licensed ministers of The United Methodist Church are considered as deferred compensation and are paid to said retired and disabled ordained or licensed ministers in consideration of previous active service; and WHEREAS, the Internal Revenue Service has recognized that the Mississippi Annual Conference is the appropriate organization to designate a housing/rental allowance for retired and disabled ordained or licensed ministers who are members of this conference; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: 1. An amount not to exceed 100 percent of the pension payments received during the year of 2020 be and is hereby designated as a rental/housing allowance for each retired and disabled ordained or licensed minister of The United Methodist Church who is or was a member of the Mississippi Conference at the time of his or her retirement; 2. This rental/housing allowance shall apply to each retired and disabled ordained or licensed minister who has been granted the retired relation or placed on disability leave by the Mississippi Conference and whose name and relationship to the conference is recorded in the Journal of the Mississippi Conference and in other appropriate records maintained by the conference; 3. The pension payment to which this rental/housing allowance applies shall be the pension payment resulting from all service of such retired and disabled ordained or licensed minister from all employment by any local church, annual conference, or institution of The United Methodist Church, or of any former denomination that is now a part of The United Methodist Church, or from any other employer who employed the minister to perform services related to the ministry and who elected to make contributions to the pension funds of The United Methodist Church for such retired minister’s pension. John Brian Jones, Chairperson, Board of Pension David Stotts, CPA, Conference Benefit Officer 3. Petition On Human Sexuality (Subtitled: Petition Concerning the Practice of Homosexuality) WHEREAS, this has been the third consecutive year that the Mississippi Annual Conference has been presented similar petitions on human sexuality without any of the petitions being voted on; and WHEREAS, the 2019 General Conference meeting in session in St. Louis, Missouri, from February 23-26, passed the Traditional Plan, which upheld the 2016 Discipline’s language regarding human sexuality; and WHEREAS, the Biblical stance on the practice of homosexuality will be a continuing battle in years ahead, I petition the 2019 Mississippi Annual Conference to makes its stance known by the passage or non-passage of the following petition on human sexuality: WHEREAS, the Scripture contained in the Old and New Testaments is the final authority that establishes the conditions in which all men and women can have a harmonious relationship with God, our Creator (Genesis 1:26-28; 2:7, 18-25, esp. 24; Matthew 5:17; Romans 15:4; II Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 4:12); and WHEREAS, the Scripture teaches us that God is love (John 3:16; Romans 5:8; I John 4:8, 16) and holy (Leviticus 19:2; 20:7; I Peter 1:16), and He (God) never changes (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8); and WHEREAS, all of us are sinners (Psalm 53:1-3; Isaiah 53:6; Ezekiel 18:4; Romans 3:23), and yet, none of us are beyond the embrace of God’s grace, mercy, forgiveness and love through Jesus Christ (Isaiah 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 125

53:4-5; John 3:17-19; Romans 3:22; 5:8; Ephesians 2:8-9), leading us to become holy in all of our conduct (I Corinthians 10:13; Ephesians 1:3-6; Philippians 1:6; I Peter 1:13-15); and WHEREAS, the purpose of Christ’s death on the Cross was not only for the forgiveness of sin (Matthew 26:28; Acts 13:38-39; I John 1:7; 2:1-2), but also to make us new, holy creatures in Christ (Romans 6; II Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 4:17-24; I Peter 2:24-25; I John 3:9); and WHEREAS, Christ’s words to the woman taken in the act of adultery, “Neither do I condemn you; go your way; from now on sin no more” (John 8:11b), should be our words to all individuals who desire to experience God’s love, forgiveness and power; and WHEREAS, love without Truth is not Divine Love, and truth without Love is not Divine Truth (Ezekiel 33:8-9; Matthew 28:19-20; John 7:24; 8:32; 14:15); and WHEREAS, anyone, who desires to experience this newfound freedom and cleansing power in Christ, must first acknowledge his/her sinfulness and confess it before God (Psalm 32:5; Proverbs 28:13; Joel 2:18; John 16:7-11; I John 1:9); and WHEREAS, in every reference to the practice of homosexuality in the Scriptures such practice is deemed contrary to God’s holy character and unnatural in its behavior (Genesis 19; Leviticus 18:22; 20:13; Romans 1:24-27; I Corinthians 6:9-11; I Timothy 1:8-11); and WHEREAS, the consistent Christian practice through the centuries has affirmed the Biblical judg- ment of homosexuality (St. Augustine, St. Thomas Aquinas, and Martin Luther); and WHEREAS, the founder of our United Methodist Church, John Wesley, writes: “I am not afraid that the people called Methodists should cease to exist either in Europe or America. But I am afraid, lest they should only exist as a dead sect, having the form of religion without the power. And this undoubtedly will be the case, unless they hold fast both the doctrine, spirit, and discipline with which they first set out. What was their fundamental doctrine? That the (entire) Bible is the WHOLE AND SOLE RULE BOTH OF CHRISTIAN FAITH AND PRACTICE” (“Thoughts Upon Methodism” by John Wesley, emphasis added; see also II Timothy 4:1-4); and WHEREAS, The 2016 Discipline of the United Methodist Church says, “The practice of homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching” (Paragraph 304.3), and some annual conference Boards of Ordained Ministry do not even ask the questions concerning human sexuality; and WHEREAS, the issue of homosexuality has been an on-going struggle causing confusion within our own United Methodist Church for the past 47 years resulting in pastors and bishops officiating at same- sex ceremonies and the election of a practicing lesbian as a bishop (Karen Oliveto, Western Jurisdiction - 2017), without experiencing meaningful repercussions for their disobedience; and WHEREAS, our homosexually inclined brothers’ and sisters’ rights to this liberating Truth of the Gospel are being denied due to the ambiguity of previous actions and most recently the overt defiance of The Book of Discipline by our leadership on all levels of our Church. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the 2019 Mississippi Annual Conference confirm the actions of the 2019 General Conference, which confirmed the Traditional Plan upholding the provisions in our 2016 Book of Discipline and the repeated actions of previous General Conferences in regard to human sexuality. That the General Conference hold our leadership accountable (in light of the recent decisions, especially 1341, of the Judicial Council), mandating them to fulfill their responsibility in implementing these provisions. That the General Conference mandate that each individual Board of Ordained Ministry ask the disciplinary questions on human sexuality to each and every candidate, as we in Truth compassionately minister to the LGBTQI community and the world with God’s love, grace, mercy and justice. Furthermore, that the General Conference affirm the biblical truth that the practice of homosexuality is contrary to God’s standard of holiness and reaffirm Paragraphs 304.3 and 310.2(d) of not allowing the certification or ordination of “self-avowed practicing homosexuals” to serve as an ordained minister or as an appointee to serve in the United Methodist Church. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, all immorality is sin that hinders us from experiencing God’s redemp- tive love found only in Jesus Christ, and because of the confusion regarding the morality of homosexuality within our culture and Church, let it be known the practice of homosexuality (not the inclination) misses the mark of holy conduct commanded by God in His Word, which is the FINAL AUTHORITY on what 126 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

is HOLY AND UNHOLY behavior. Furthermore, as to those who are unable to adhere to these Scriptural teachings on the practice of homosexuality and the statutes established in our 2016 Book of Discipline, may they part amicably with a reasonable and fair solution, and may the parting be one of mutual respect, so that the United Methodist Church may have and act as a unified voice concerning the Scriptural Truth regarding the practice of homosexuality. George (Randy) Owen, M.Div. Elder in the Mississippi Annual Conference 4. Remove Age Limits on Licensing School Enrollment For Those Serving as Local Pastors WHEREAS, The 2016 Book of Resolution 3161111, 2, and 3 states,” John Wesley was a unique and remarkable educator (who) gave to the whole Methodist movement a permanent passion for education”; and WHEREAS, ‘’Wesley believed that persons develop their full God-given potential when they educate their mind as well as nurture their spirit;” and WHEREAS, “the historic United Methodist concern for education is witnessed through commitment to educational opportunity for all persons regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, or economic or social background;” and WHEREAS, the 2016 Book of Discipline (BOD) authorized several groups of people, including licensed local pastors and commissioned pastors (11316, 339, 340) to preside at Eucharist and the Sacrament of Baptism in the charge(s) in which they are appointed; WHEREAS, the 2016 Book of Resolutions policy on Worship and Liturgy, Article 8032 entitled, This Holy Mystery, states, “Some of these provisions have been in effect since 1976, to enable the sacraments to be served regularly in many small congregations that do not have elders as their pastors. The church continues to seek the best ways to meet this need and still uphold the historic linkage of ordination and administration of the sacraments.” WHEREAS, continuing decline in membership in the United Methodist Church is leaving increasing numbers of small congregations who cannot (afford) have elders as their pastors and rely solely on local licensed pastors and commissioned pastors to preside at Eucharist and the Sacrament of Baptism. WHEREAS, the number of ordained and provision elders has decreased from 15,806 in 2010 to 14,614 in 2015. At the same time, local pastors appointed to churches climbed from 6,193 in 2010 to 7,569 in 2015, making them extremely valuable in the growth of the denomination and to fulfilling its purpose in making disciples. WHEREAS, human life span is longer, and many older adults retain their physical, emotional and mental health and working abilities well beyond age 72. WHEREAS, qualified and certified candidates for ministry, in accordance with the requirements in 11310.1-2 and 11315 of the 2016 Book of Discipline are not permitted to. attend Licensing School if or they are deemed to be too near retirement age (no later than 72) or post-retirement (after age 72) .. WHEREAS, while focal clergy (pastors) may be newly assigned to and/or continue to serve one or multiple churches post retirement, they may not seek nor attend licensing school after age 72 and are, therefore, unable to perfom the sacraments . WHEREAS, local clergy (pastors) who are not permitted to be licensed due to age nor allowed to perform the sacraments through absolutely no fault, other than age, together with the lack of ordained elders in close proximity, results in congregations that will not be able to partake of Communion on a regular basis nor enjoy the Sacrament of Baptism performed in their church by the clergy serving the church. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that all age limits imposed on licensing school be removed for full-time and part -time local pastors. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 127

FURTHER, BE IT RESOLVED that older qualified candidates, meeting all other requirements of candidacy, in accordance with the requirements in 1J310.1-2 and 1J315 of the 2016 Book of Discipline, be allowed to enroll in and complete Licensing School. If assigned or appointed, the candidate will be granted a License regardless of age. It is requested that this Resolution be presented for approval to the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church. Should this Resolution pass and be approved by the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church that it be forwarded to the 2020 General Conference of the United Methodist Church. Maureen Elva Fields Pearlington United Methodist Church, Pearlington, MS Patsy “Pat” Oakes Bond United Methodist Church, Wiggins, MS Dr. Reverend Larry Hilliard District Superintendent, Seashore District Preston 5. A Resolution to Do No Harm WHEREAS John Wesley taught three General Rules that all who sought to be members of a Society Meeting in the early Methodist movement were required to adhere. The primary rule being “First: By doing no harm, by avoiding evil of every kind, especially that which is most generally practiced, such as: The taking of the name of God in vain. The profaning the day of the Lord…Slaveholding; buying or selling slaves. Fighting, quarreling, brawling, brother going to law with brother; returning evil for evil, or railing for railing;…Uncharitable or unprofitable conversation; particularly speaking evil of magistrates or of ministers.” 1; and WHEREAS the author of the Letter to the Romans, writes, “Love does no wrong to a neighbor” 2; and WHEREAS Jesus taught us the greatest commandments: “The first is, ‘Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one; you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ The second is this, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” 3; and WHEREAS there are numerous references throughout scripture that remind us to do no harm to others 4; and WHEREAS in Wesleyan theology there is the understanding that the law of love means that we are required to act out of genuine love for our God and our fellow human beings even when our understanding of what that means is subject to ignorance, limits, confusion, disagreement, mistakes, and errors; and WHEREAS ¶162 of The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church 2016 speaks specifically to the rights of all persons, and states “we affirm all persons as equally valuable in the sight of God” 5; and WHEREAS ¶4 of The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church 2016 states “the United Methodist Church acknowledges that all persons are of sacred worth” 6; and WHEREAS the recent actions and decisions arising from the February 2019 Special Called General Conference and the subsequent rulings during the April 2019 meeting of the Judicial Council of the United Methodist Church do not affirm all persons as being of equal value in the sight of God, and have caused harm to clergy and laity of the United Methodist Church, including those in the Mississippi Conference; now, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church: 1. seeks to be in holy conversation with all persons as beloved children of God with sacred worth and equal value; 2. encourages all clergy and laity of Mississippi United Methodist congregations to refrain from words and actions that cause harm to others; 128 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

3. asks all United Methodists of Mississippi to love God and one another as unconditionally as we human beings can; 4. affirms that all persons are equally valuable in the sight of God, and in the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church; and 5. invites us to confess our sin before God and each other when we cause harm to one another, either by word or action. Rev. Dr. Joseph T. Ranager Elder in Full Connection, Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church 6. Petition to Discontinue Karen Oliveto as a Bishop of the UMC THE UNDERSIGNED, The Administrative Board of Shipman UMC, and The Administrative Board of Winborn Chapel UMC, and James Hall, Clergy, all of Seashore District, of the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church, DO HEREBY PETITION, MEMORIALIZE, AND MOVE the 2019 Mississippi Annual Conference to resolve, petition, memorialize, and move THE GENERAL CONFERENCE OF THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, IN ALL ITS REGULAR, SPECIAL, AND CALLED SESSIONS ENSUING HEREAFTER, SPECIFICALLY GC2020, but not limited thereto, AS FOLLOWS, to-wit: WHEREAS, the Judicial Council [“JC”] of the United Methodist Church [“UMC”] upheld and ruled in JC Decision No. 1341 that “Paragraph 304.3 [of the Book of Discipline of the UMC] prohibits the consecration as bishop of a self-avowed practicing homosexual.” And, WHEREAS, the JC also ruled in Decision No. 1341 that “It is not lawful for the college of bishops of any jurisdictional or central conference to consecrate a self-avowed practicing homosexual bishop.” And, WHEREAS, the consecration by the Western Jurisdiction of Karen Oliveto to be a bishop of the UMC was the precipitating event underlying JCD 1341, and such prohibited and unlawful act by the Western Jurisdiction has not been corrected. And, WHEREAS, Division Two - Section II - Article IV of The Constitution of The United Methodist Church, being ¶16 of The Book of Discipline (2016), provides, inter alia,: The General Conference shall … have authority as follows: 5. To … provide for the discontinuance of a bishop because of … unacceptability. NOW, THEREFORE, the General Conference of the UMC is hereby petitioned, resolved, memorialized, and moved to “provide for the discontinuance” of Karen Oliveto as a bishop of the UMC for unacceptability, by removing such person from such position and declaring such position vacant. THUS MEMORIALIZED AND PETITIONED, THIS 6th DAY OF JULY, 2018. James Hall, Clergy, Pastor Shipman UMC & Winborn Chapel UMC Tommie Jenkins, Local Member Shipman UMC & Chair of Administrative Board of Shipman UMC William Patterson, Local Member Winborn Chapel UMC & Chair of Administrative Board of Winborn Chapel UMC 7. Petition to Require General Conference Ratification of Bishops THE UNDERSIGNED, The Administrative Board of Shipman UMC, and The Administrative Board of Winborn Chapel UMC, and James Hall, Clergy, all of Seashore District, of the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church, DO HEREBY PETITION, MEMORIALIZE, AND MOVE the 2019 Mississippi Annual Conference to resolve, petition, memorialize, and move THE GENERAL CONFERENCE OF THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, IN ALL ITS REGULAR, SPECIAL, 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 129

AND CALLED SESSIONS ENSUING HEREAFTER, SPECIFICALLY GC2020, but not limited thereto, AS FOLLOWS, to-wit: A. That Book of Discipline (2016) ¶ 27. containing Article V. 2. of The Constitution of The United Methodist Church be amended by insertion of the following symbols and words reflected in underlined italics: 2. To elect bishops – subject, however, to the ratification of the next ensuing regular, special, or called General Conference, failing which the election of any bishop whose election is not rati- fied by a majority of such General Conference present and voting shall forthwith be vacated and held for naught – and to cooperate in carrying out such plans for their support as may be determined by the General Conference. B. These changes are shown as follows: Book of Discipline ¶ 27 (2016). Article V. of The Constitution of The United Methodist Church 2. To elect bishops – subject, however, to the ratification of the next ensuing regular, special, or called General Conference, failing which the election of any bishop whose election is not rati- fied by a majority of such General Conference present and voting shall forthwith be vacated and held for naught – and to cooperate in carrying out such plans for their support as may be determined by the General Conference. C. Thus the UMC 2016 Book of Discipline ¶ 27. Article V. 2. shall read — 2. To elect bishops – subject, however, to the ratification of the next ensuing regular, special, or called General Conference, failing which the election of any bishop whose election is not rati- fied by a majority of such General Conference present and voting shall forthwith be vacated and held for naught – and to cooperate in carrying out such plans for their support as may be determined by the General Conference.” THUS MEMORIALIZED AND PETITIONED, THIS 6th DAY OF JULY, 2018. James Hall, Clergy, Pastor Shipman UMC & Winborn Chapel UMC Tommie Jenkins, Local Member Shipman UMC & Chair of Administrative Board of Shipman UMC William Patterson, Local Member Winborn Chapel UMC & Chair of Administrative Board of Winborn Chapel UMC 8. Petition to Merge Western Jurisdiction into South Central Jurisdiction THE UNDERSIGNED, The Administrative Board of Shipman UMC, and The Administrative Board of Winborn Chapel UMC, and James Hall, Clergy, all of Seashore District, of the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church, DO HEREBY PETITION, MEMORIALIZE, AND MOVE the 2019 Mississippi Annual Conference to resolve, petition, memorialize, and move THE GENERAL CONFERENCE OF THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, IN ALL ITS REGULAR, SPECIAL, AND CALLED SESSIONS ENSUING HEREAFTER, SPECIFICALLY GC2020, but not limited thereto, AS FOLLOWS, to-wit: A. That ¶ 37. Article I. of The Constitution of The United Methodist Church be amended by insertion and deletion of the following words, symbols, and characters: Immediately following the word “Texas”, insert a comma — “ , ” and then delete the following: “. Western—” 130 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

B. These changes are shown as follows: Section VII. Boundaries ¶ 37. Article I.—The United Methodist Church shall have jurisdictional conferences made up as follows: Northeastern—Bermuda, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, the Virgin Islands, West Virginia. Southeastern—Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia. North Central—Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin. South Central—Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas. Western— , Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming and the territory of the United States in the Pacific region. C. Section VII. ¶ 37. Article I. would then read as follows: Section VII. Boundaries ¶ 37. Article I.—The United Methodist Church shall have jurisdictional conferences made up as follows: Northeastern—Bermuda, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, the Virgin Islands, West Virginia. Southeastern—Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia. North Central—Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin. South Central—Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming and the territory of the United States in the Pacific region. D. All other references in the UM Book of Discipline to “Western Jurisdiction” shall be and hereby are deleted and all boards, councils, agencies, bishops, and other groups, officials, matters, or items, presently pertaining or allocated to or coming therefrom shall be allocated to and be part of the South Central Jurisdiction. THUS MEMORIALIZED AND PETITIONED, THIS 6th DAY OF JULY, 2018. James Hall, Clergy, Pastor Shipman UMC & Winborn Chapel UMC Tommie Jenkins, Local Member Shipman UMC & Chair of Administrative Board of Shipman UMC William Patterson, Local Member Winborn Chapel UMC & Chair of Administrative Board of Winborn Chapel UMC 9. A Conscientious Dissent from the Traditional Plan WHEREAS, using appropriate, quality biblical scholarship, there is no biblical mandate to discrimi- nate against LGBTQ+ persons and relationships. WHEREAS, the United Methodist Church is capable of great nuance in the matter of biblical interpretation as displayed in its treatment of issues such as divorce and the ordination of women, but reverts to simplistic literalism when it comes to the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ persons in its life and ministry. WHEREAS, the United Methodist Church has singled out LGBTQ+ persons for special punitive action while ignoring the “clear biblical teaching” on other matters such as pensions (Matthew 6:19-20). 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 131

WHEREAS, the first general rule that John Wesley gave the people called Methodists concerns “doing no harm.” WHEREAS, United Methodists promise “to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves.” WHEREAS, by passing the Traditional Plan, the denomination has done great, and perhaps irrepa- rable harm to our LGBTQ+ siblings. WHEREAS, Today’s findings of medical science have shown that misunderstandings and fears of sexual orientation that led to the condemning language and restrictive rules on non-heterosexuals in the Discipline are without merit and should be removed. For example, most current science agrees that non-heterosexual orientation is neither a disease nor is it a perversion of heterosexuality. Rather, it is now known to be “a form of sexual orientation established in the womb; it cannot be chosen or transmitted. It cannot be changed, and therefore has its own destiny.” (2018 Report on the Science of Human Sexuality, Parts IV. & V.) For more on these and other findings, see The 2018 Report of the Task Force on the Science of Human Sexuality. An Official Document commissioned (2017) and produced (2018) by the Mississippi Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Mississippi Annual Conference (MAC) condemns the decision of the 2019 General Conference to pass the Traditional Plan and apologizes for the harm that it has caused LGBTQ+ persons, their families, their friends, and the body of Christ. “We affirm that all persons are individuals of sacred worth, created in the image of God,” but we also assert and affirm that no human being is incompatible with Christian teaching. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that longing for a time when all shall “sit under their own vines and under their own fig trees, and no one shall make them afraid,” we ask that the Mississippi Conference make every faithful effort to insure that no funds or monies (either directly through payments or indirectly through the time of employees of the conference) shall be expended for the purpose of background inves- tigations, complaints, just resolutions, or clergy trials pertaining to LGBTQ+ ordination and marriage. SUBMITTED May 8, 2019 (C) Clergy; (L) Lay: Mary Helen Abel (L), Sarah Jo Adams-Wilson (C), Chris Adams (L), Carey Allen (L), Jon Altman (C), Kurt C. Appel (C), Charles Araujo (L), Evelyn Araujo (L), Loye Sekihata Ashton (C), Victoria Sizemore Baldwin (C), Kay Barksdale (L), Sally Bevill (C), Vicki Biebers (L), Sylvia Blackwell (C), Warren Black (C), Kristie Conn Bobinger (L), Shelli Bobinger (L), Dana Brammer (L), Jean Brammer (L), Carol Burnett (C), Sarah Campbell (L), Davis Carothers (C), Diane L. Chapman (L), Jerry Chapman (C), Victor Chatham (C), Nancy Clarkson (L), Brad Corban (C), Anna Del Castillo (L), Dorothy Dickson-Rishel (C), Claire Dobbs (C), Dawn Douglas Flowers (C), John Garner (L), Rob Gill (C) , Anna Gipson (L), Janet Gordon (L), Steve Greenough (L), Kimberly Griffin (L), John Henegan (L), Elizabeth Henry (C), Heather Hensarling (C), Austin Hoyle (C), Krystal Jackson (L) Wells, Pam Johnson (L), Sally Jones (L), Audrey Jordan (L), Janet Kennedy (L), Vicki Loflin Johnson (C), Inell Kellum (L), Elvin Kellum (L), Barbara Ann Carlow Lacoste (L), Lauren Ladner (L), Jamie LeJeune, (L-Deaconess), T.W. Lewis (C) , Jennifer Lewton-Yates (L), Donna Matthews (L), Cleo McQueen (C), Phillip Messner (C), John Moore (C), David Morgan (L), Jennifer Klerk Morgan (L), Luther Munford (L), Virginia Munford (L), Billie M. Nance (L) Goodman UMC, Sally Nash (L) , Kevin Newman (L), Jessica North (L), LaRue Owen (C), Cynthia B. Parker (L), Hugh J. Parker (L), Allison Stacey Parvin (C), George Patton, Jr. (L) , Barbara Payne (L), Bess Perrier (C) , Raymond Perrier (L), Rachel Benefield Pfaf (C), Mallory Pickering (L), Linda Pilgrim (L), Shelli Poe (L), Barbara Powell (L), Barry H. Powell (L), Lance Presley (C), Nan Prince (L), Joellen Reid (L), Annie E. Reiher (L), C.R. “Bob” Ridgway IV (L), Martha L. Roach (L), J. Richard Robbins (C), Ashley Hewitt Rogers (L), Jeanne Rozman (L) , Chuck Sampson (L) , Corinne Sampson (L), Emily Sanford (C), Betsy Schonberger (L), Marti O’Neal Sorey (L), Will Sorey (L), Mason Shrader (L), Cary Stockett (C), Mary Stubblefield (L), Paige Swaim-Presley (C), Elaine Talbott (L), Sumati Shaw Thomas (L), Ashley Thompson (L), Jan Watson (L) , Cindy Cash White (L), Angie Williams (L), Roger Williams (L), Camille Wright (L), Becky Williams (L), Becky Youngblood (C) 132 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

B. Property Bellwether United Methodist Church GCFA # 315813 District # 2020 WHEREAS, a quorum of the members of the Bellwether United Methodist Church, on April 11, 2018, in a duly called Church Conference pursuant to The 2016 Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, voted to remove their membership in The United Methodist Church, and WHEREAS, such removal of membership caused the Bellwether United Methodist Church to no longer be able to function as a congregation in compliance with 2016 Discipline paragraph 201 based on the paragraph 213 assessment, and WHEREAS, the Superintendent on August 8 ,2018, reported the action of Bellwether United Methodist Church and recommended discontinuance of the church, the action was approved by the Bishop and the Cabinet of The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and WHEREAS, pursuant to the 2016 Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church, the real property was determined by the East Jackson Buildings and Location committee not to be a location to continue the operation of the United Methodist Church, and upon discontinuation of the local church, such real property is hereby released to the Mississippi Conference Trustees to dispose of , THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bellwether United Methodist Church is officially closed effective August 8, 2018; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that any other remaining members’ church memberships be moved to the church of their choice. Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr., Resident Bishop Reverend Dr. Embra K. Jackson, Dean of the Cabinet Reverend Dr. Stephen T. Cook, Secretary of the Cabinet

Blessed Trinity United Methodist Church GCFA # 977583 District # 11121 WHEREAS, the Blessed Trinity United Methodist Church, West Jackson District of The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, has faithfully served God, its members, and its community for many years, and WHEREAS, a quorum of the remaining members of the Blessed Trinity United Methodist Church, on February 10, 2019 and April 13, 2019 in a duly called Church Conference pursuant to The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, voted to discontinue functioning as a congregation of The United Methodist Church effective June 30, 2019, and WHEREAS, such discontinuation of the Blessed Trinity United Methodist Church, was approved ad interim by the Bishop and the Cabinet of The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and WHEREAS, pursuant to The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, the real property owned by the Blessed Trinity United Methodist Church, is held in trust for the benefit of The United Methodist Church and, upon discontinuation of the local church, such real property may be disposed of by The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the church property and buildings be transferred to The Mississippi Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, Incorporated, a Mississippi nonprofit corporation; and 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 133

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the remaining members’ church memberships be moved to a church of their choice. Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr., Resident Bishop Reverend Dr. Embra K. Jackson, Dean of the Cabinet Reverend Dr. Stephen T. Cook, Secretary of the Cabinet

Boggs Chapel United Methodist Church GCFA # 334474 District # 6511 WHEREAS, the Boggs Chapel United Methodist Church, New Albany District of The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, has faithfully served God, its members, and its community for many years, and WHEREAS, a quorum of the remaining members of the Boggs Chapel United Methodist Church, on May 19, 2019, in a duly called Charge Conference pursuant to The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, voted to discontinue functioning as a congregation of The United Methodist Church effective July 1, 2019, and WHEREAS, such discontinuation of the Boggs Chapel United Methodist Church, was approved by the Bishop and the Cabinet of The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and WHEREAS, pursuant to The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, the real property owned by the Boggs Chapel United Methodist Church, is held in trust for the benefit of The United Methodist Church and, upon discontinuation of the local church, such real property may be disposed of by The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the church property and buildings be transferred to The Mississippi Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, Incorporated, a Mississippi nonprofit corporation; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the remaining members’ church memberships be moved to a church of the member’s choice. Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr., Resident Bishop Reverend Dr. Embra K. Jackson, Dean of the Cabinet Reverend Dr. Stephen T. Cook, Secretary of the Cabinet

Glendora United Methodist Church GCFA # 331323 District # 3481 WHEREAS, the Glendora United Methodist Church, Greenwood District of The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, has faithfully served God, its members, and its community for many years, and WHEREAS, a quorum of the remaining members of the Glendora United Methodist Church, on April 15, 2019, in a duly called Charge Conference pursuant to The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, voted to discontinue functioning as a congregation of The United Methodist Church effective July 1, 2019, and WHEREAS, such discontinuation of the Glendora United Methodist Church, was approved by the Bishop and the Cabinet of The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and WHEREAS, pursuant to The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, the real property owned by the Glendora United Methodist Church, is held in trust for the benefit of The United Methodist Church and, upon discontinuation of the local church, such real property may be disposed of by The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the church property and buildings be transferred to The Mississippi Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, Incorporated, a Mississippi nonprofit corporation; and 134 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the remaining members’ church memberships be moved to a church of the member’s choice. Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr., Resident Bishop Reverend Dr. Embra K. Jackson, Dean of the Cabinet Reverend Dr. Stephen T. Cook, Secretary of the Cabinet

Gunnison United Methodist Church GCFA # 329546 District # 3461 WHEREAS, the Gunnison United Methodist Church, Greenwood District of The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, has faithfully served God, its members, and its community for many years, and WHEREAS, a quorum of the remaining members of the Gunnison United Methodist Church, on August 22, 2018, in a duly called Charge Conference pursuant to The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, voted to discontinue functioning as a congregation of The United Methodist Church effective August 31, 2018, and WHEREAS, such discontinuation of the Gunnison United Methodist Church, was approved by the Bishop and the Cabinet of The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and WHEREAS, pursuant to The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, the real property owned by the Gunnison United Methodist Church, is held in trust for the benefit of The United Methodist Church and, upon discontinuation of the local church, such real property may be disposed of by The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the church property and buildings be transferred to The Mississippi Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, Incorporated, a Mississippi nonprofit corporation; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the remaining members’ church memberships be moved to Rosedale United Methodist Church. Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr., Resident Bishop Reverend Dr. Embra K. Jackson, Dean of the Cabinet Reverend Dr. Stephen T. Cook, Secretary of the Cabinet

Holder’s Chapel United Methodist Church Hattiesburg District GCFA # 316670 Conference # 4052 WHEREAS, the Holder’s Chapel United Methodist Church of the Hattiesburg District had a long and proud history of serving God, its community and members, and WHEREAS, Holder’s Chapel United Methodist Church is no longer serving the purpose for which it was organized and it had chosen not to be a regular place of United Methodist worship, and WHEREAS, the Bishop and Cabinet voted “ad interim” at the cabinet meeting on September 26, 2018 pursuant to the 2016 Discipline paragraph 2549.(2) (b) to close the Holder’s Chapel United Methodist Church effective September 26, 2018, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the remaining members of Holder’s Chapel United Methodist Church transfer their membership to a church of their choice. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Holder’s Chapel United Methodist Church has ceased to exist and the annual conference Trustees are instructed to release the property and all assets to the successor of Maxie UMC. Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr., Resident Bishop Reverend Dr. Embra K. Jackson, Dean of the Cabinet Reverend Dr. Stephen T. Cook, Secretary of the Cabinet 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 135

Maxie United Methodist Church Hattiesburg District GCFA # 320193 Conference # 4381 WHEREAS, the Maxie United Methodist Church of the Hattiesburg District had a long and proud history of serving God, its community and members, and WHEREAS, Maxie United Methodist Church is no longer serving the purpose for which it was organized and it had chosen not to be a regular place of United Methodist worship, and WHEREAS, the Bishop and Cabinet voted “ad interim” at the cabinet meeting on September 26, 2018 pursuant to the 2016 Discipline paragraph 2549.(2) (b) to close the Maxie United Methodist Church effective September 26, 2018, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the remaining members of Maxie United Methodist Church transfer their membership to a church of their choice. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Maxie United Methodist Church has ceased to exist and the annual conference Trustees are instructed to release the property and all assets to the successor of Maxie UMC. Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr., Resident Bishop Reverend Dr. Embra K. Jackson, Dean of the Cabinet Reverend Dr. Stephen T. Cook, Secretary of the Cabinet

Sandy Hook United Methodist Church GCFA # 315926 District # 1590 WHEREAS, the Sandy Hook United Methodist Church, Brookhaven District of The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, has faithfully served God, its members, and its community for many years, and WHEREAS, a quorum of the remaining members of the Sandy Hook United Methodist Church, on August 2, 2018, in a duly called Church Conference pursuant to The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, voted to discontinue functioning as a congregation of The United Methodist Church effective August 2, 2018, and WHEREAS, such discontinuation of the Sandy Hook United Methodist Church, was approved ad interim by the Bishop and the Cabinet of The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and WHEREAS, pursuant to The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, the real property owned by the Sandy Hook United Methodist Church, is held in trust for the benefit of The United Methodist Church and, upon discontinuation of the local church, such real property may be disposed of by The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the church property and buildings be transferred to the Trustees of The Mississippi Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, Incorporated, a Mississippi nonprofit corporation; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the remaining members’ church memberships be moved to a church of their choice. Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr., Resident Bishop Reverend Dr. Embra K. Jackson, Dean of the Cabinet Reverend Dr. Stephen T. Cook, Secretary of the Cabinet 136 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

St. Matthews United Methodist Church GCFA # 329158 District # 10061 WHEREAS, the St. Matthews United Methodist Church, Tupelo District of The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, has faithfully served God, its members, and its community for many years, and WHEREAS, a quorum of the remaining members of the St. Matthews United Methodist Church, on April 28, 2019 in a duly called Church Conference pursuant to The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, voted to discontinue functioning as a congregation of The United Methodist Church effective June 30, 2019, and WHEREAS, such discontinuation of the St. Matthews United Methodist Church, was approved ad interim by the Bishop and the Cabinet of The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and WHEREAS, pursuant to The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, the real property owned by the St. Matthews United Methodist Church, is held in trust for the benefit of The United Methodist Church and, upon discontinuation of the local church, such real property may be disposed of by The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the church property and buildings be transferred to The Mississippi Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, Incorporated, a Mississippi nonprofit corporation; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the remaining members’ church memberships be moved to a church of their choice. Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr., Resident Bishop Reverend Dr. Embra K. Jackson, Dean of the Cabinet Reverend Dr. Stephen T. Cook, Secretary of the Cabinet

The Pointe United Methodist Church GCFA # 315972 District # 2035 WHEREAS, a quorum of the members of the The Pointe United Methodist Church, on May 17, 2018, in a duly called Church Conference pursuant to The 2016 Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, voted to remove their membership in The United Methodist Church, and WHEREAS, such removal of membership caused The Pointe United Methodist Church to no longer be able to function as a congregation in compliance with 2016 Discipline paragraph 201 based on the paragraph 213 assessment, and WHEREAS, the Superintendent on August 8, 2018, reported the action of The Pointe United Methodist Church and recommended discontinuance of the church, the action was approved by the Bishop and the Cabinet of The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and WHEREAS, pursuant to the 2016 Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church, the real property was determined by the East Jackson Buildings and Location committee not to be a location to continue the operation of the United Methodist Church, and upon discontinuation of the local church, such real property is hereby released to the Mississippi Conference Trustees to dispose of , THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that The Pointe United Methodist Church is officially closed effective August 8, 2018; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that any other remaining members’ church memberships be moved to the church of their choice. Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr., Resident Bishop Reverend Dr. Embra K. Jackson, Dean of the Cabinet Reverend Dr. Stephen T. Cook, Secretary of the Cabinet 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 137

Warren Hill United Methodist Church Hattiesburg District GCFA # 976896 Conference # 4043 WHEREAS, the Warren Hill United Methodist Church of the Hattiesburg District had a long and proud history of serving God, its community and members, and WHEREAS, Warren Hill United Methodist Church is no longer serving the purpose for which it was organized and it had chosen not to be a regular place of United Methodist worship, and WHEREAS, the Bishop and Cabinet voted “ad interim” at the cabinet meeting on August 8, 2018 pursuant to the 2016 Discipline paragraph 2549.(3) (b) to close the Warren Hill United Methodist Church effective August 8, 2018, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the remaining members of Warren Hill United Methodist Church transfer their membership to a church of their choice. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Warren Hill United Methodist Church has ceased to exist and the annual conference Trustees are instructed to transfer the property and all assets to the successor of Warren Hill UMC. Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr., Resident Bishop Reverend Dr. Embra K. Jackson, Dean of the Cabinet Reverend Dr. Stephen T. Cook, Secretary of the Cabinet

C. Changes in Charge Lines 2019

Greenwood District Barlow(3590), Epworth (3160), and Gallilee Treadwell (3170) will be new charge known as Barlow, Epworth, Gallilee Treadwell Charge Grenada: Vincent (3290) will now be a stand-alone charge Linn (3077) will now be a stand-alone charge Shipman Chapel (3101)will now be a stand-alone charge Boyle (3075) will now be on the charge with St. Luke (3100) and known as St Luke Boyle Charge Meridian District Preston-Deemer Charge will be known as Macedonia / St. Mark Charge New Albany District Dennis (6051) will now be a stand-alone charge Golden Hill (6192) will now be a stand-alone charge Mount Evergreen (6241) will now be a stand-alone charge Friendship (6191) will now be a stand-alone charge Faulkner (6190) will now be a stand-alone charge Senatobia District Cockrum (8090) will now be a stand-alone charge Baker’s Chapel (8391) will now be a stand-alone charge Starkville District Ethel (9170) and Tabernacle (9173) will now be Ethel:Tabernacle Charge Macedonia (9411) will now be a stand-alone charge Louisville: Hopewell (9260) will now be a stand-alone charge Louisville: Wesley (9270) will now be a stand-alone charge Maben (9200) will now be a stand-alone charge Lagrange (9511) will now be a stand-alone charge Mt Moriah (9512) will now be Mathiston: Mt Moriah 138 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Tupelo District Remove Union (10311) from Plantersville (10310). Plantersville continues under the charge name Plantersville Charge. Remove Beulah Grove (10350) from the Pontotoc: McDonald/Beulah Grove Charge to form the Pontotoc: McDonald charge. Remove Oak Hill (10451) from the Saltillo: Oak Hill/Hebron Charge to form the Saltillo: Hebron Charge. Remove Pleasant Grove (10214) from Houston South Charge which includes Buena Vista (10210), Macedonia (10212) and McCondy (10213) Remove Ebenezer (10041) and add Fairview (10320) to Algoma (10040), Palestine (10042) to form the Fairview/Algoma/Palestine Charge. New Chapel is on New Chapel (Plantersville) charge and Big Hill charge name is Big Hill (Tupelo) to form a new charge “New Chapel/Big Hill Charge West Jackson District St Paul (11120) will now be a stand-alone charge 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 139

Section XII

Conference Directory Section will be added after 2019 AC Session

2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 141

Section XIII

Standing Rules A. Standing Rules The Mississippi Annual Conference Preface “The Annual Conference, for its own government, may adopt rules and regulations not in conflict with the Discipline of The United Methodist Church;” (Par. 604, The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, 2012, hereinafter referred to as The Book of Discipline.) The Annual Conference is incorporated under the laws of the State of Mississippi as The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, Incorporated, a non-profit corporation. All references to “Conference” or “Annual Conference” shall mean The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, Incorporated.

Purpose and Core Values In addition to the Mission, as defined by the Book of Discipline, the Mississippi Annual Conference – empowered by love, generosity, justice and apprenticeship – forms spiritual leaders, faith communities and connections so more disciples of Jesus Christ transform the world. Rule 1: Rules of Procedure and Voting A. The Annual Conference shall be ordered by The Book of Discipline and Wesley’s Rules. In addition, the Standing Rules of the Annual Conference, the Rules of Order of the preceding General Conference and the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised, shall provide guidance. For the purpose of transacting business, the quorum shall be those present and eligible to vote. B. The official roll call of the Annual Conference shall be those who have registered and received voting badges. The record of attendance shall be made from this roll. C. Lay members of boards, councils, commissions and committees; lay members of the Conference Staff, and lay persons who are heads of Conference Institutions supported by the Annual Conference, who are not members of the Annual Conference, shall have the privilege of the floor without vote. D. A copy of any motion made on the floor of the Annual Conference must be submitted in writing to the Conference Secretary as soon as the person making the motion returns to his or her seat. E. Any report of a board, council, commission or committee duly presented to the Annual Conference for its action shall be deemed properly before the Conference without the necessity of a motion to adopt and a second thereto. F. At any session of the Annual Conference there shall be Tellers which shall conduct voting as the Annual Conference directs. The Tellers shall include (1) clergy and (1) lay person from each district, nominated by the District Superintendent. The Tellers shall be organized under the direction of the Conference Secretary. G. Voting shall be by voice or by show of hands or otherwise as ordered by the Bishop as chair of the Conference. A standing, balloted, or electronic vote may be ordered on call of the presiding Bishop when necessary. Voting for the election of Lay and Clergy Delegates to General and Jurisdictional Conferences shall be organized by the Conference Secretary according to the appropriate guidelines as set forth by the Annual Conference. H. The Annual Conference, at the request of the Conference Secretary, shall fix the voting area, also known as the bar of the Conference, at the opening business session and all voting must take place within this designated area. Voting shall be by official badge only. Only those members with the proper badges who are within the bar of the Conference shall vote on Annual Conference matters. I. There shall be a Consent Calendar for the session of the Annual Conference composed of items to be “moved to the record without reading” and such other items which do not necessarily require 142 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

deliberation by the Conference in open session. The Bishop and Conference Secretary shall determine items to be placed on the Consent Calendar and shall distribute a list of those items in the pre-conference materials. Items placed on the Consent Calendar shall be limited to items requiring a simple majority vote for adoption. The Consent Calendar shall be presented to the floor of the Annual Conference during the opening business session by the Conference Secretary for consideration and adoption. Prior to adoption, a request may be made to the Conference Secretary to remove any item from the consent agenda. This request must have the support of 10 members of the Annual Conference. This request being in order, the item shall be removed and considered at an appropriate time as determined by the Conference Secretary and presiding Bishop Annual Conference Membership & Expenses Rule 2: Conference membership shall consist of the following: A. Clergy Membership shall include those identified in The Book of Discipline B. Lay membership shall include those identified in The Book of Discipline. C. Equalizing lay and clergy membership: When necessary, additional at-large members, as certified by the conference secretary, shall be named by the district superintendent in consultation with the district lay leader, to assure an equal number of lay and clergy members as set forth in The Book of Discipline. If not voting members in their own right, all Directors and Senior Conference Staff, including the Executive Director of the Mississippi United Methodist Foundation, shall serve as equalizing members. Additional equalizing members may include; Chairpersons of all Conference Boards, Committees, Councils and Commissions (if laypersons), District Presidents of the United Methodist Men, United Methodist Women, and United Methodist Youth; and District Directors of Lay Servants, and all lay members of the Conference Council on Finance and Administration. Priority shall be given to consideration and election of additional young adult and youth members. When the number to be elected is unequal to the number of districts, the district(s) with the larger memberships shall elect an additional member in order of size. The Annual Conference shall provide their per diem expenses. The Conference Council on Finance and Administration shall provide funding for the expenses of the Annual Conference. Rule 3: Committee on the Annual Conference The Bishop shall gather and convene this committee to develop the Annual Conference agenda, program, worship, and local arrangements. Annual Conference Order Rule 4: Annual Conference Order A. The basic Conference Order shall be established in compliance with The Book of Discipline. B. The Vital Congregations Committee is a discernment body that ensures the ongoing effectiveness and Oneness of Annual Conference churches, ministries and committees. The committee will recommend future directions and/or improvements as determined in part by feedback from charge conferences and goal achievements from the three groups (spiritual leader formation, faith community formation and connecting ministries). The committee also seeks to keep the Annual Conference focused on long-term, big picture items like living into the Purpose (including the Core Values). This body seeks to represent the needs and interests of the local church in a wide diversity of ministry contexts rather than conference roles. The Extended Cabinet will nominate membership. Membership is comprised of nine churches (each represented by a pastor plus a lay member). Selection is informed by Vital Signs metrics and a demonstrated presence of the Core Values. There will be an intentional effort to ensure diversity of church size, race/ethnicity and area (north, central, south), gender and age. The Director of Connectional Ministries and Communications convenes this committee and the Bishop and Conference Lay Leader resource as 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 143

non-voting members. C. The following Operational Groups will serve to conduct the ongoing administration and mission of the Annual Conference in compliance with the current discipline and as further detailed in Appendices A and B and current Conference Structure. 1. Spiritual Leadership Group: (Director of Spiritual Leadership, Rule #18) Staff, boards and committees work together to continually call, equip, assess and deploy excellent clergy and laity into all areas of vital ministry. The committees associated with this area include: n Board of Ordained Ministry n Board Committee on Equitable Compensation n Board of Higher Education and Campus Ministry n Board of Laity, including Lay Servant Ministries, United Methodist Men representatives, United Methodist Women representatives and representatives from the Conference Council on Youth Ministries, or like organization n Conference Council on Youth Ministries, or like organization n Collaborative Spiritual Leadership Team made up of an equal representation of Clergy and Lay appointed by the Director of Spiritual Leadership. They will be tasked with assessing, developing and evaluating spiritual leadership formation experiences for lay and clergy and other Board of Discipleship responsibilities as appropriate. 2. Faith Community Formation Group: (Director of Faith Community Formation, Rule #19) Staff, District Superintendents and committees work together to lead and assist in the development of vital communities of faith by creating new faith communities and encouraging vitality in existing communities of faith. The committees associated with this area include: n Faith Community Formation Team n Committee on New Church Starts and Revitalization (which includes functions of the Board of Discipleship, the Commission on Small Membership Church, the Committee on Parish and Community Development) 3. Connecting Ministries Group: (Director of Connectional Ministries and Communications, Rule # 20) Staff, boards, agencies and committees work together to uphold and promote the shared Mississippi Partnerships and ministries of the Annual Conference, Jurisdictional Conference, and General Conference as each local church embodies our Core Values. The committees and groups associated with this area include: n United Methodist Women n United Methodist Men n Commission on Communication n Board of Global Ministries (which includes functions of Missions, the United Methodist Committee on Relief, United Methodist Volunteers in Mission, and Health and Welfare, Board of Discipleship and Camping Ministries) n Congregations for Children n Personnel Committee n Committee on Resolutions and Petitions n Conference Committee on Standing Rules 4. Administry Group: (Director of Finance and Administration/Conference Benefits Officer) Staff, and committees work together to support and resource the ministries of the Annual Conference. The committees associated with this area include: n Conference Council on Finance and Administration n Conference Board of Pensions n Board of Trustees n Board of Medical Benefits n Commission on Archives and History n Joint Committee on Clergy Medical Leave 144 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

5. Episcopal Office Group: (Resident Bishop and Assistant to the Bishop, Rule #17) Staff and committees work together to perform the traditional work of the Episcopal Office, as well as the work of Advocacy throughout the Annual Conference. The committees associated with this area include: n Conference Administrative Review Committee n Conference Committee on Episcopacy n Episcopal Residence Committee n Conference Advocacy Groups including Christian Unity and Interreligious Concerns, Conference Committee on Ethnic Local Church Concerns, Commission on Religion and Race, Commission on the Status and Role of Women and Multicultural and Racial/Ethnic Ministry (which includes functions of Hispanic/Latino Ministry and Native American Ministry), Church and Society and Committee on Disability Concerns. Annual Conference Reports Rule 5: Reports A. The pastors shall file the annual statistical report for each church served, as directed by the conference statistician. B. Reports originating in Annual Conference agencies and groups that are to be presented to the Annual Conference for action or information shall be submitted electronically to the Conference Secretary or his/her designee by the date set for Pre-Conference Journal production Rule 6: Conference Committee on Standing Rules The committee shall review the Standing Rules annually and make recommendations regarding Standing Rules to the Annual Conference. The recommendations shall lie on the table to be considered and acted upon the next day. The committee shall be authorized to make non-substantive, editorial changes as needed. Rule 7: Resolutions and Petitions A. Procedures: Resolutions and Petitions initiated by the Cabinet or in one of the duly constituted conference councils, boards, commissions, committees, or agencies are properly before the Annual Conference without the necessity of referral. All resolutions and petitions presented to the Annual Conference which do not originate in the cabinet or in one of the duly constituted conference councils, boards, commissions, committees, or agencies shall be submitted electronically to the Conference Secretary and to the conference office 20 business days prior to the opening business session of Annual Conference. These resolutions or petitions shall be referred to the Conference Committee on Resolutions and Petitions for concurrence, non-concurrence, amendment, or appropriate referral; and the committee shall report back to the Annual Conference. Any submis- sions following the deadline will be referred to the Committee on Resolutions and Petitions for consideration at the following Annual Conference. B. Conference Action: Resolutions and petitions shall lie on the table for at least 24 hours after being presented prior to being considered by the Annual Conference. As each resolution or petition comes up for consideration, the Conference Committee on Resolutions and Petitions shall present its position and the underlying rationale. If present, the first and last floor speaker shall be the designated representative for the person or organization that submitted the proposal, irrespective of any other limit placed by the Annual Conference on debate of the proposal. The conference committee shall make a statement after all floor speakers but prior to the final vote by the Annual Conference. Rule 8: Budget Changes at Annual Conference The Proposed Budget, as presented to the Annual Conference by the Committee on Finance and Administration, will be required to lie on the table for 24 hours before final adoption. When any proposal is brought to the floor of Annual Conference to change the budget that is lying on the table and is approved, the amendment to the budget must be referred to CFA for a funding recommendation before the final vote on the budget is taken. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 145

Elections As mandated and defined by the Book of Discipline, paragraphs 140 and 502A, the Mississippi Annual Conference will endeavor to ensure that all elected representation will be a fair and inclusive depiction of the Conference. Rule 9: Election of Clergy Delegates to the General and Jurisdictional Conferences The following system of nomination and election shall be followed in the election of clergy delegates: A. Clergy delegates to the General and Jurisdictional Conferences shall be elected from the ordained ministerial members in full connection, pursuant to the provisions of the Book of Discipline, with the exception of clergy on Involuntary Leave of Absence. B. All eligible clergy members shall be listed on the ballot prepared by the Conference Secretary. Those wishing not to be considered for election have the right to decline. C. All clergy who accept their election express their willingness to be a nominee, to attend and participate in the conferences as elected, and to attend all meetings and trainings of the delegation. D. Delegates elected to serve for the General Conference shall automatically serve on the delegation for Jurisdictional Conference. The remaining delegates to Jurisdictional Conference shall serve as alternates, in order of election, to General Conference Rule 10: Election of Lay Delegates to the General and Jurisdictional Conferences The following system of nomination and election shall be followed in the election of lay delegates: A. Lay delegates to the General and Jurisdictional Conferences shall be elected from the voting membership of the Annual Conference. B. Each lay member who wishes to be considered for election must electronically submit a completed nomination form to the Conference Secretary on or before March 1 of the election year to allow proper time for verification of election qualifications. District Equalizing delegates appointed after the March 1st deadline may apply for an extension in writing to the Conference Secretary. All nominees shall be required to have an endorsement by a District Board of Laity, District Council, Conference Organization, or an Administrative Board/Council of a local church. C. Nominations forms shall include biographical information including age, race, gender, prior years elected to General and/or Jurisdictional Conferences, participation on boards, councils, commissions or committees of the Annual Conference, and a written summary of qualifications of up to fifty (50) words in length by the nominee. D. All nominees express their willingness to be a nominee, to attend and participate in the conferences as elected, and to attend all meetings and trainings of the delegation. E. Delegates elected to serve for the General Conference shall automatically serve on the delegation for Jurisdictional Conference. The remaining delegates to Jurisdictional Conference shall serve as alternates, in order of election, to General Conference Rule 11: Official Journal and Yearbook The Journal Editor, under the direction of the Conference Secretary, shall be responsible for editing and publishing the Annual Conference Journal each year and shall work in cooperation with the Office of Connectional Ministries and Communications to contract and draw funds from the Conference Administration Fund for the cost of preparing and distributing the Journal. The Secretary shall recommend to the Annual Conference the material to be included in both the Pre-Conference and Official Journals. In addition, the Conference Secretary, in cooperation with the Office of Connectional Ministries and Communications, will release a schedule for the submission of information for the production of both the Pre-Conference and Official Journals. Electronic copies will be provided to the clergy and laity members of the Annual Conference. Access to hard copies will be provided to retired ministers. Rule 12: Memoirs Memoirs shall be published in the conference Journal for deceased ordained clergy, diaconal ministers, and local pastors, their spouses, and their dependent children. A bronze plaque is to be presented by the Conference Board of Pensions to the families of deceased clergy. 146 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Conference Leadership Groups and Nominations Rule 13: Conference Committee on Nominations A. There shall be a Conference Committee on Nominations of twenty-two (22) members composed of two representatives (one clergy and one laity) from each district. They will be nominated by the District Superintendents and elected by the Annual Conference, with an emphasis on adequate and fair representation. Additional members shall include: the resident Bishop, the Conference Lay Leader, the Conference President of United Methodist Women, the Conference President of United Methodist Men and the President of the Conference Council on Youth Ministries. The Resident Bishop of the Mississippi Annual Conference shall serve as the Chairperson for the Committee on Nominations. Any further officers shall be elected by the Committee at their first meeting. B. The following shall be ex-officio members and resource the work of the committee: The Director of Spiritual Leadership, the Director of Faith Community Formation, the Director of Connectional Ministries and Communications, the Director of Finance and Administration, the chairperson of the Commission of the Status and Role of Women, the chairperson of the Commission on Religion and Race, the Chairperson of the Committee on Disability Concerns and the Dean of the Cabinet. C. The committee shall make the following nominations for the Annual Conference: a secretary, a statistician, trustees of property, a lay leader, members of all quadrennial councils, boards, commissions, and committees as specified by The Book of Discipline and Annual Conference Standing Rules. When the Book of Discipline or Standing Rules require nominations be made by other agencies of the Annual Conference, those nominations shall be reported to the Committee for publication in Pre-Conference and Official Journals. D. Nominations of chairpersons of all quadrennial boards, councils, commissions, and committees, whose election is not prescribed by the Book of Discipline or other sections of these Standing Rules shall be a nominated member of that board, council, commission or committee and shall be submitted by the Committee on Nominations to the Annual Conference for election. Additional officers shall be elected by the board, council, commission or committee at the first regular meeting. E. Current members of the Committee on Nominations shall not be nominated for membership on any board, council, commission or committee whose membership arises from the nominations of this committee. Ex-officio members of the Committee on Nominations are excluded from this rule. F. The committee, in making nominations, shall develop a process that ensures inclusive representation on all councils, boards, and commissions; and may choose to add up to three additional persons on any board, commission, or committee to ensure inclusiveness or expertise. G. The committee shall prepare and submit its quadrennial report to the Conference Secretary for publication in the Pre-Conference Journal. H. Within 90 days, after the adjournment of Annual Conference all conference boards, committees, commissions, and councils shall meet and elect officers. The bishop shall appoint a convener and a nominating committee for those boards, committees, or commissions that are designated by the Book of Discipline to elect their own officers. I. Nominations from the floor: The privilege of nominating from the floor shall be reserved for members of the Annual Conference and shall be referred to the Committee on Nominations to ensure that all requirements, guidelines and equality mandates are met. Rule 14: Conference Committee on Personnel There shall be a committee on personnel policy and practices which shall consist of a chairperson nominated by the committee on nominations, the Director of Connectional Ministries and Communications, the Conference Treasurer, the Director of Faith Community Formation, the Director of Spiritual Leadership, the Assistant to the Bishop, two lay persons with specific expertise in the field of 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 147 human relations, personnel, and compensation, and a member designated by each of the following: the Council on Finance and Administration, the Board of Pensions, the Board of Medical Benefits, the Board of Ordained Ministry, the Committee on Religion and Race the Conference Board of Laity, and the Cabinet. At least one of the clergy must be serving in a multi-staff appointment. The duties of the Conference Committee on Personnel shall be to establish uniform and equitable policies and practices in the employment and compensation of personnel, in consultation and cooperation with the aforementioned bodies. These policies and practices shall be in accordance with the Social Principles (¶162 A, E, F, G, H and I). The committee shall receive and review the rationale for any new position and be satisfied that existing funding to finance the position is available or appropriate plans to acquire the same are being followed. No member of the committee shall participate in discussions, deliberations or vote on any issue which directly affects any aspect of that member’s or that member’s immediate family’s compensated employment. (¶613.13 as interpreted by Judicial Council Decision 952). Rule 15: Expectations of Conference Leadership Groups A. Tenure: Unless The Book of Discipline or institutional charters direct otherwise, no clergy or layperson shall serve more than eight consecutive years on any quadrennial council, board, commission, committee, or board of directors or trustees; further, each member shall not be renominated until four years has lapsed. B. Limitation of Membership: No clergy or layperson shall serve on more than one quadrennial body, provided that this rule does not apply to those committees which function only during sessions of the Annual Conference or to ex-officio members. C. Conflict of Interest: It is provided that members of committees are to avoid any conflict of interest in their service and therefore, any member who serves on a committee, commission, board or council who has a personal interest in, or is a recipient of a grant, loan or other monetary award to either that member, or to the church she/he serves, which is paid from that committee’s disbursements, shall not vote on considerations affecting his or her position and shall abstain from participating in the discussion regarding the same. D. Attendance at Meetings: Elected members of a council, board, commission, or committee shall forfeit membership when they are absent from two consecutive regular meetings of which they have been duly notified, unless they have notified the chairperson of valid reasons for nonattendance. E. Unless otherwise provided in The Book of Discipline, a vacancy in the membership of a board, council, commission, or committee may be filled, ad-interim, by the board, council, commission or committee, with the approval of the Extended Cabinet for the remainder of the Conference year in which the vacancy occurs. At its next session, the Annual Conference shall fill the vacancy for the remainder of the unexpired term. The respective board, council, commission or committee shall inform the Committee on Nominations of the vacancy and action by the Extended Cabinet. F. Open Meetings: Unless otherwise provided in The Book of Discipline, the meetings of councils, boards, commissions, committees, and boards of directors or trustees shall be open to all members of The United Methodist Church within the conference. This rule does not apply to cabinet meetings. Those planning to attend a stated meeting shall give the chairperson at least a week’s notice, so that adequate space can be provided. Persons attending such meetings shall have the right to speak only with the permission of the body but shall not have the right to vote. The Board of Ordained Ministry shall hold executive sessions for the purpose of examining candidates for conference membership or other relationships under its jurisdiction. Boards of trustees or directors may vote to hold executive sessions when it is deemed necessary. Annual Conference Staff Rule 16: Extended Cabinet As defined by the resident Bishop, the Extended Cabinet may include, but is not limited to: the District Superintendents, the Assistant to the Bishop, the Conference Lay Leader, the Director of Spiritual Leadership, Director of Faith Community Formation, Director of Connectional Ministries and 148 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Communications, the Executive Director of the Mississippi United Methodist Foundation and the Director of Finance and Administration and Conference Benefits Officer. Rule 17: Assistant to the Bishop The resident bishop may appoint a clergy member in full connection to serve as Administrative Assistant to the Bishop. The Bishop’s assistant shall be a member of the Cabinet. The Administrative Assistant to the Bishop shall serve to fulfill such administrative functions as the bishop shall assign. This position may include working with the Advocacy groups, the Administrative Review Committee, the Conference Committee on Episcopacy and the Episcopal Residence Committee. The position shall be accountable to the bishop and the Conference Personnel Committee. Rule 18: Director of Spiritual Leadership The resident bishop may appoint a clergy member in full connection to serve as the Director of Spiritual Leadership. This office is charged with the intentional equipping of the saints for the work of discipleship through the ongoing theological and spiritual formation of clergy and laity in the Conference. Additionally, this office helps sow the Core Value of apprenticeship deep in the soil of the Conference. The Director of Spiritual Leadership is supported by Ministerial Administrative Services and by an Associate Director of Spiritual Leadership, who shall be a lay person. The position shall be accountable to the bishop and the Conference Personnel Committee. Rule 19: Director of Faith Community Formation The resident bishop may appoint a clergy member in full connection to serve as the Director of Faith Community Formation. This office will be tasked with the leading and resourcing the creation of vital faith communities. This includes: a. Assisting congregations in measuring their effectiveness and spiritual development in living into the Core Values so churches can be resourced in the areas needed to become perfected in fulfilling God’s calling and b. Determining where the fields are ripe for the harvest of disciples so that new congregations can be planted. The Director will be assisted by an administrative assistant and up to three Associate Directors of Faith Community Formation accountable to the Director. The director shall be accountable to the bishop and the Personnel Committee

Rule 20: Director of Connectional Ministries and Communications The resident bishop may appoint a clergy member in full connection to serve as Director of Connectional Ministries and Communications. The director shall be accountable to the bishop and the Personnel Committee. The director shall exercise oversight and coordination to the conference Connectional Ministries staff, representatives of the Mississippi Partnerships, and work with the conference Vital Congregations Committee, the district staff, and local churches to promote relationships of ministry, service, and mission between and among local congregations for the fulfillment of the primary task of local churches, which is the making of disciples for Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world, as embodied in the Core Values. Conference Finances & Property Rule 21: Fiscal and Administrative Policies The fiscal and administrative year of The Mississippi Annual Conference shall be from January 1 to December 31. The conference Council on Finance and Administration shall develop, maintain, and administer a comprehensive and coordinated plan of fiscal and administrative policies, procedures, and management services for the Annual Conference as set forth in Pars. 611-619, The Book of Discipline. Rule 22: Capital Funds Campaigns There shall be only one Annual Conference capital funds campaign during two consecutive quadren- nia. The campaign may begin and end at any time during the eight-year period. No pay period may begin sooner than three years from the end of the previously designated pay period. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 149

Rule 23: Advanced Notice of Proposed Action When the board of trustees or directors of any institution belonging to, related to, or governed by The Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, whether in whole or in part, or any persons or group of persons desiring the approval of authority of The Mississippi Annual Conference on any matter or proposed action concerning the properties or funds of the Annual Conference or institution, the trustees, directors, or persons shall: A. File a written petition and resolution stating concisely the action that is desired and the reasons therefore, no less than sixty (60) days prior to the opening session of the Annual Conference. Copies shall be filed with the following: 1. The presiding bishop, 2. Conference secretary, 3. Chairperson of the Council on Finance and Administration; and 4. Chairperson of the related board or committee which has a responsibility and interest in the proposed action. B. No conference action shall be taken on any proposal concerning properties or funds of the Annual Conference or any of its institutions unless advance notice is given. Rule 24: Sale of Conference Property When Annual Conference abandoned or closed property is sold, the mineral rights shall be reserved for the Conference with any net proceeds received to be used by the Forming Faith Communities Group. The Book of Discipline Par. 2548.3 indicates that the conference trustees are ultimately responsible for the disposition of any abandoned local church property within the bounds of the Annual Conference. The Trustees shall pay for the closing expenses and care of the abandoned or closed property and selling expenses out of a fund that is made up of 10% of each sale plus any additional required funds from the apportioned Trustee budget. After the payment of the 10% for operational expenses, the balance shall be split equally (45% to each) of Faith Community Formation in the conference and in the district from which the property resided. These funds are restricted in the conference and district as provided by the Discipline paragraph 2549. Rule 25: Trustees/Directors of Conference Institutions All trustees or directors of institutions related to or belonging to The Mississippi Annual Conference shall be elected by the Annual Conference upon nominations made in accordance with the pertinent paragraphs of The Book of Discipline. When the election is otherwise provided for in the charter of an institution, this rule shall not apply; in which case, however, the names of the trustees shall be submitted to The Mississippi Annual Conference for ratification. The Board of Higher Education and Campus ministry will work in consultation with the appropriate campus ministry boards as they elect new trustees or directors. The Camping Coordinator, in consultation with the trustees/directors of conference camping facilities, shall serve in an advisory capacity to the conference nominating process for selecting trustees/directors of those institutions. District Matters Rule 26: Number of Districts There shall be eleven (11) districts in The Mississippi Annual Conference. The districts shall organize themselves according to the current Book of Discipline. Amendments Rule 27: Standing Rules may be amended by a two-thirds vote of members present and voting at the Annual Conference. During a session of the Annual Conference, all proposed changes to the Standing Rules must be submitted in writing to the Conference Secretary for referral to the Committee on Standing Rules for a response following a period of at least twelve (12) hours for committee deliberation. The Committee on Standing Rules will then present any proposed amendments to the Annual Conference with or without concurrence. 150 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

B. Mississippi Conference Clergy Behavioral Policy Policy on Professional Sexual Misconduct

Table of Contents I. Purpose II. Theological Foundation III. Definitions IV. Response Teams Ethics V. Procedure for Reporting and Responding I. Purpose A church professional (see definition in III.E.) is in a position of great trust, power, and responsibility. This provides the opportunity for unique relationships of grace and caring. Church professionals sometimes violate the trust given them. Sexual misconduct is one of the gravest violations of this trust. This policy seeks to address the abuse of power by all church professionals, both men and, women, who engage in sexual misconduct. The intent is to provide guidance to both laity and clergy of the Annual Conference and the local church regarding sexual misconduct. It is both the ethical and legal responsibility of the Annual Conference to ensure that there are mechanisms for addressing grievances in matters of sexual misconduct. This policy, which includes procedures for complaints, will serve to guard against inappropriate behavior and will outline a means for handling grievances should sexual misconduct occur. II. Theological Foundation All persons are created by God. In the Genesis stories, as in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, it is affirmed that we are created in the image and likeness of God. God values human life, intending all women, men and children to have worth and dignity in all relationships with God and others. God calls us into covenant with each other in God. We are one connected body, holy in Christ, created equal. Where one part of the body is injured, physically, emotionally or spiritually, the entire body is rendered less than God’s intended wholeness. We are called to use our bodies, including our sexuality, in a responsible way. Sexual misconduct of any kind violates a person’s integrity and is an unjust use of status and power, and a sinful behavior against God and one another. The United Methodist Book of Resolutions (1996, p. 481) states: “Jesus was sent into this world that we might experience whole relationship with each other and God. `There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus’ (Galatians 3:28 RSV).” One who repents for sinful behavior is promised forgiveness. However, discipline should be distinguished from forgiveness. A church professional guilty of sexual misconduct needs and may receive forgiveness and be offered avenues for redemption and change. And yet, the church must still take steps to protect the people of God. III. Definitions A. SEXUAL MISCONDUCT occurs when a church professional engages in sexual contact or sexu- alized behavior with a congregant, client, employee, student, staff member or other person (adult, teenage, or child) within the professional relationship, or misuses the professional relationship in unwanted behavior with any individual. Sexual misconduct includes sexual harassment and any form of criminal sexual conduct. Sexual misconduct includes inappropriate use of electronic communication (i.e. email, voice mail, Instant Messaging, internet websites) and any deliberate access of pornographic internet sites for the purpose of sexual gratification. B. SEXUAL HARASSMENT is any unwanted sexual advance or demand, either verbal, or physical, which is perceived by what a reasonable person of the same sex as the accuser would perceive 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 151

as demeaning, intimidating or coercive under the same or similar circumstances. “Sexual harassment must be understood as an exploitation of a power relationship rather than as an exclusively sexual issue. Sexual harassment includes, but it not limited to, the creation of a hostile or abusive working environment resulting from discrimination on the basis of gender.” (2004 The Book of Discipline, ¶161,I) Sexually oriented humor or language, inappropriate questions, or comments about sexual behavior or preference, unwelcome or undesired physical contact, inappropriate comments about clothing or physical appearance, or repeated requests for social engagements are sexual harassment in a situation where there is an employment, mentor, or colleague relationship between the persons involved. C. COMPLAINANT is a person who communicates a concern regarding alleged sexual misconduct. D. GRIEVANT is a person who submits a written allegation of sexual misconduct. A grievant may be a parent or responsible party for a minor or an adult incapable of self-reporting. E. For the purposes of this policy, a church professional is a clergy person, diaconal minister, or local pastor whose appointment is set by the Bishop. IV. Ethics Response Teams A. The purposes of the response teams: 1. To provide support to the complainant, the accused, and the congregation affected by allegations or incidents of misconduct. 2. To provide the complainant with a safe, non-threatening environment within the church family in which he/she can reveal allegations of misconduct and receive support, compassion, and direction. 3. To provide support, compassion, and direction for a person accused of misconduct. 4. To offer congregations affected by incidents of misconduct support and recommendations regarding care and healing for their community and the individuals and families involved. 5. To offer information about the misconduct policy to persons who are referred to the response team. B. The makeup of the response teams: 1. A response team or teams may be named by the Bishop. 2. A response team may consist of three or more persons who are sensitive to issues of sexual harassment, misconduct and abuse. A team may include church professionals (clergy or diaconal), mental health professionals and lay persons. Members of a support team may be chosen from within and beyond the Mississippi Annual Conference. 3. Training on issues of misconduct shall be available and the names of persons receiving such training shall be made available to the Bishop. Such training shall be the responsibility of those to whom the Bishop assigns said responsibility. C. Structure and function: 1. A team may be instructed by the Bishop to respond to the needs of any or all of the following: complainant or grievant, the accused professional, the congregation. 2. A team will: a. explain the procedures available within the structures of the church for dealing with the problem; b. offer resources and consultation to the accused professional, the complainant and/or the congregation and assist in any appropriate manner; c. encourage the person making the allegation to keep a diary listing time, place, and nature of the offenses; d. support the person if they choose to submit a written grievance; e. accompany the person to meetings with the church authorities if he/she desires it. V. Procedures for Reporting and Responding to Complaints of Misconduct A. Anyone who desires to discuss a concern regarding misconduct may contact their pastor, another United Methodist clergy person, a district superintendent, the Bishop, or a person trained to function as a member of a Sexual Ethics Support Team. 152 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

B. The provisions of Paragraphs 362, 413 and 2702-2706 of The Book of Discipline (2004) shall determine the procedure. C. When an allegation of misconduct is subject to mandatory reporting requirements by the state (as in the case of a minor or an adult incapable of self-reporting), it shall be reported to the Bishop, and to the appropriate authorities and agencies. D. When appropriate the Bishop may utilize the services of one or more of the Ethics Response Teams. C. Parsonage Guidelines Adopted 1990, Edited 2016 Parsonage Standards The Mississippi Conference I. Parsonage Standards—Overview According to the current Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, it is the responsibility of each charge to provide adequate housing for the clergy family. It is understood that parsonages already owned by churches/charges at present may only meet minimal standards. It is expected that safety of the occupants be a matter of highest priority and that parsonages are inspected annually in accordance with the current Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church. 1. General Requirements: (1) House shall meet all local building, health, and safety codes. (2) Equipment shall be good quality, dependable, and, when needed, replaced with energy effi- cient models. (3) Electrical wiring shall meet International Electrical code. All installations and upgrades will be performed by licensed electrician. (4) Railing shall be installed on all indoor and outdoor stairways, and around any porch more than 30 inches from the ground. (5) Entry door shall have a window or device by which a caller may be observed before door is opened. (6) Locks shall be installed on all exterior doors and windows to reasonably secure the home. (7) There shall be at least one egress window in any basement area used as a living space. (8) If possible, post copies of an emergency escape plan in appropriate places, and on each level of a multi-level house for the benefit of the residing family as well as any guests in the home. 2. Room sizes/Number of rooms Suggested rooms include: (1) Living room or great room (2) Dining room or eating area large enough for 8 or more people (3) Three bedrooms, each with a closet (4) Kitchen (5) Two bathrooms, with available storage in or nearby for linens/supplies (6) Indoor laundry area (7) Shelter for 2 vehicles (8) Secure, dry storage area (9) In a multilevel home, there shall be at least one bedroom with a full bath on the main level to accommodate persons with disabilities living in the home now or in the future

2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 153

Suggested Room Sizes: [To be considered if building or buying a new parsonage]

Room Minimum sq feet Good Excellent Living Room 240 280 320 Bedrooms 120 150 210 Dining room 120 150 210 Family room/den 224 255 320 Kitchen 90 140 180 Office/study 80 96 120 Bathrooms 35 50 60

3. Equipment: (1) Climate control: heating and air conditioning (2) Stove/oven (3) Sink and counter space (4) Microwave (5) Exhaust fan in each bathroom, per building code (6) Refrigerator with freezer compartment (7) Automatic washing machine and dryer (8) Hot water heater, 40 gallons or more (9) Combination storm windows and screens (10) Whole house fan, window fans, and /or power fan, if needed (11) Fire escape ladder or other provision for upstairs bedrooms (12) Wired for TV antenna, basic cable, or satellite service access (13) Maintained smoke alarms throughout house (14) Maintained carbon monoxide alarm (15) Current fire extinguishers for kitchen and other required areas (these should be tested annually and replaced as necessary) (16) Water conditioner, if needed (17) Dehumidifier in basement and/or other high humidity areas, as needed (18) Annual inspection needed to ensure waterproofing integrity tightness (19) Telephone service with private line. (20) Outdoor lighting, preferably with motion sensor (21) At least one, preferably two, outdoor water spigots, one in front, one in the rear of the house (22) Doorbell at the main entrance 4. Maintenance Recommendation: The church should authorize and conduct a baseline evaluation of property, house and grounds. It is further recommended that this be done by a licensed, professional outside inspector, and updated with a complete audit at least once every ten years. A Parsonage Record Book should be established and maintained by the Board of Trustees to record results, reports, and dates of inspections and corrections. Inspections should be made for the following: (1) Radon gas (2) Condition of any exposed asbestos insulation and siding (3) Formaldehyde foam insulation and paneling (4) Condition of exposed, un-encapsulated lead-based paint (5) Fungus, mildew, molds 154 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

(6) Water purification system, whether whole house or individual faucets provided as deemed necessary by church and clergy (7) Environmental setting, especially if parsonage is near an old industrial complex, any dis- posal area, or chemical plant. The local health department should be contacted to obtain educational information, and the results of the baseline and periodic setting inspections by a certified environmental inspector/service provider be kept in the Parsonage Record Book (8) Periodic pest control inspection and treatment to ensure the foundation walls, attic eaves, and soffit areas shall be secure to keep out rats, mice, bats, birds, and squirrels. (9) Periodic inspection and treatment for termites and other insects. (10) Inspection of duct work, cleaning as needed (11) Landscaping should be representative of the neighborhood and included in the annual parsonage inspection (12) Church is responsible for any large, permanent plantings such as trees and shrubs, including major pruning and/or replacement (13) Regular schedule for inside painting, outside painting/tuck-pointing (14) Annual hardscape inspection and repairs as needed (15) Annual carpet cleaning (16) Annual fireplace and chimney inspection and cleaning (17) Annual air conditioner (including outside units), furnace, and wiring inspection by licensed contractor Recommendation: Like many standard rental procedures and agreements between landlords and renters in communities across the United States, churches may wish to require proof of such renter’s insurance to cover the pastor’s personal property, including library collection, or a signed waiver of responsibility in case of damage or loss to personal property. Recommendation: Consideration should be given to the budget amount set aside for routine parsonage maintenance and for large, predictable expenses for replacement of mechanicals and roofing. A starting point for consideration may be to annually set aside 2 to 2½ percent of the replacement value of the parsonage in an accruing, interest-bearing account. 5. Pets Pets are acknowledged as “part of the family”. The parsonage family is responsible for any damage done to the parsonage by their pets. 6. In-home Business In the event a parsonage family wants to have a business in a church-owned parsonage, there shall be a contract among the following parties: the District Superintendent, the Pastor-Parish Relations Committee, the Trustees, and the parsonage family (statement approved at Annual Conference 2016). 7. Modification of property Changes to the existing parsonage structure and property, such as playgrounds, decks, sheds, wheelchair ramp, or a permanent or temporary nature designed to enhance the livability for the parsonage family including children, pets, and persons with disabilities or unique situations shall be negotiated between the pastor, Parsonage Committee, Staff-Parish Relations Committee, and Trustees. 8. Disability Accommodations When purchasing/building a parsonage, consideration should be given to fulfilling the needs of those with disabilities who may live in the parsonage now or in the future. ADA has produced a set of guidelines that may be useful in the purchase/building. II. Parsonage Furnishings Appliances are the responsibility of the church (see section I.3.) To help clergy families feel more at home in church-owned housing, to help transition in appointments from a housing allowance to a parsonage, and to ease financial impact of retirement, we 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 155

propose a shift from church-provided furnishings to all clergy providing their own furniture, except major appliances and window and floor coverings. The clergy person shall be responsible to provide furnishings for the master bedroom and the family room by July 2019. In July 2021, the clergy family will be responsible for furnishing the 2nd and 3rd bedrooms. By July 2022, the clergy family will be responsible for furnishing the entire parsonage except for major appliances and window and floor coverings. Used furniture and equipment donated to the church shall not be placed in the parsonage except by request of the clergy family. In that case, it shall remain the property of the church. III. Parsonage Maintenance 1. Yard: (1) Landscaping and fertilization shall be the responsibility of the church. (2) Cutting of the lawn and trimming of shrubs is usually handled most cost-effectively by the church. If not handled by church, a lawn mower, suitable in size for the lawn, shall be provided by the church. (3) Outside storage for yard care equipment and other necessary items should be provided. 2. Parsonage maintenance provided by church: (1) Should be kept well painted. (2) Check exterior cornice moldings for rot and paint peeling. Repair and replace when needed. (3) Check outside windows and door seals. (4) Replace any broken windows immediately. (5) Check and maintain roof. Check for loose shingles in case of high winds associated with storms. Repair any damage immediately. This will prevent further damage to the outside as well as prevent leaks. (6) In the event the parsonage has a septic tank, the tank should be pumped as needed. (7) Check and clean gutters as needed. IV. Forms & Check Lists to be provided by Annual Conference Trustees 1. Parsonage Agreement The parsonage agreement is a written form letter stating the basic entitlement of the pastor and family to reside in the church owned parsonage. This agreement letter is to be signed within 5 (five) days of the pastor’s arrival. It is signed by: the pastor, the P/SPRC chairperson, the chair of Trustees, and the chair of the Parsonage Committee (if applicable). A signed copy is then mailed to the District Superintendent to be placed in the pastor’s permanent file. 2. Annual Parsonage Review This form is to be completed when the new pastor arrives and at the beginning of each new conference year thereafter. This shall be an onsite inspection of the parsonage as directed by conference action and the current Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church. This review form will be included in the Mississippi Conference Charge Conference forms and will be due at the annual charge conference. 3. 10-Year Inspection Form Beginning in 2018, all United Methodist Church parsonages shall have a 10-year inspection form completed by the church board of Trustees. The completed form will then be presented to the church and the District Superintendent at its 2018 annual charge conference. This form will be included in the Mississippi Conference Charge Conference forms in every 10th year, in calendar years that end in “8” (ex.: 2018, 2028, 2038, etc.) Included in the inspection form will be: a. Pictures of the outside of the house and yard of the parsonage b. Pictures of all interior rooms of the house c. A current floor plan 156 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

4. Vacating Parsonage Each clergy person living in a church-owned parsonage will complete, with a member of the board of Trustees, Pastor/Staff Parish Relations Committee and/or Parsonage Committee, a vacating parsonage checklist. This form will be given to the Trustees representative (or appropriate party) when the parsonage and church keys are returned before the pastor’s departure. These forms are to be distributed at the annual Transitions Seminar for pastors who are relocating. This checklist will be for the local church Trustees and a copy will be forwarded to the District Superintendent. 5. Pastor’s Move-In Form The pastor and at least one member of the board of Trustees, P/SPRC and/or Parsonage Committee will make this inspection prior to the pastor unloading at the new parsonage. This form will be made available at the annual Transitions Seminar for pastors. D. Clergy Vacation and Days Off Policy Adopted as a Guideline June 2005 The Mississippi Annual Conference recommends that all charges of the conference provide their pastor(s) with paid annual vacation periods of at least the following schedule and make necessary financial arrangements for pulpit supply during the pastor’s absence from the pulpit. Guidelines for vacation periods shall be based on the total credited years of service published annually in the conference Journal. This policy is for pastors serving appointments within the bounds of the Mississippi Conference. Regardless of years of service, part-time pastors and retired ministers serving under appointment are recommended to receive two weeks including Sundays annual paid vacation, with the charge responsible for pulpit supply. Conference Relationship Years of Service Vacation Time

Full-time Local Pastors in process, Attending the four-week Course of Study 2 weeks incl. Sundays Full-time Pastors (Full Members, Probationary Members, Assoc. Members, Full Connection Deacons, FTLP) 5 years or fewer 2 weeks incl. Sundays Full-time Pastors (Full Members, Probationary Members, Assoc. Members, Full Connection Deacons, FTLP) 6 to 10 years 3 weeks incl. Sundays Full-time Pastors (Full Members, More than 10 years 4 weeks incl. Sundays Probationary Members, Assoc. Members, Full Connection Deacons, FTLP) NOTE: “Years of service” refers to years of service in an annual conference(s) of The United Methodist Church, not years of service in the local church to which the pastor is appointed. These years of service include years under appointment to seminary or beyond the local church. Vacation time is on a conference-year basis. Vacation time not used in one year cannot be carried over into the next year. It should also be remembered that participation in camping programs and similar conference activities, plus time used for Continuing Education, as defined by The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church and according to the rules set by the conference Board of Ordained Ministry, shall not be considered as vacation time or used instead of vacation time. It is the joint responsibility of the pastor and the PPR committee to see that such participation does not become abusive and a hin- drance to effective ministry within the local church. Meanwhile, it should also be remembered that we are a connectional faith and should expect to reasonably share our talents to uplift the whole Body of Christ where needed. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 157

Churches should encourage their pastor(s) to participate in physical exercise programs, good nutrition programs, and to get regular checkups with their doctors. Pastors and churches should work together to establish a days off policy which will accommodate church tasks while providing time for the pastor to maintain personal and spiritual health. E. Safe Sanctuaries Policy and Minimum Requirements for Conference Ministries and Guidelines for Local Church Ministries

The 2006 Annual Conference approved a resolution that the conference “shall develop safety and risk-reducing policies and procedures for the purpose of providing protection to children, youth, and vulnerable adults that come to us, to staff and volunteers from unwarranted allegations of abuse, and to limit the extent of legal liability.” A task group developed the following policy, which will be presented at the 2007 Annual Conference for adoption. Introduction Jesus said, “Whoever welcomes a child…welcomes me” (Matthew 18:5). He also said, “If any of you put a stumbling block before one of these little ones…it would be better for you if a great millstone were fasted around your neck and you were drowned in the depth of the sea.” (Matthew 18:6) Our Christian faith calls us to offer both hospitality and protection to those who cannot protect themselves. We affirm this responsibility for the safety of children at each child’s baptism by our congregational response, pledg- ing: “With God’s help we will so order our lives after the example of Christ, that this child, surrounded by steadfast love, may be established in the faith, and confirmed and strengthened in the way that leads to life eternal.” (Book of Worship, Baptismal Covenant, Congregational Pledge, 11) Purpose Building on our theological and spiritual foundation, our purpose for establishing this policy and accompanying procedures is to demonstrate our absolute and unwavering commitment to create a safe environment that will foster the comprehensive health, growth and development of all within our charge and care. Intent As a Christian community of faith, the Mississippi Conference of The United Methodist Church, we pledge to conduct the ministry of the gospel in ways that foster the safety and spiritual growth of all. Nothing in this policy or procedure is designed to hinder or prevent the investigation of suspected, reported, or confirmed violation of any Mississippi criminal laws. We hereby declare our intent to: 1. Follow reasonable safety measures in the selection and recruitment of staff and volunteers. 2. Provide adequate training for staff and volunteers regarding the implementation of our policies and procedures. 3. Implement prudent operational procedures in all programs and events that will encourage the development of our adults and children. 4. Design a clearly defined procedure for reporting instances of injury, harm or abuse in accordance with the requirements of state and federal laws. 5. Respond with compassion and integrity to needs as they present themselves following incidents of harm, injury, or abuse. 6. Review our policies and procedures regularly to meet changing legal, health, and safety standards. Conclusion In all of our ministries, the Mississippi Conference of The United Methodist Church is committed to demonstrating the love of Jesus Christ so that each person is “surrounded by steadfast love… established in the faith, and confirmed and strengthened in the way that leads to life eternal.” (Baptismal Covenant II, United Methodist Hymnal, p.44). 158 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

Definitions ADULT – Any person 18 years or older CHILD – Any person under the age of 18 CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES – Any activity or program for children or youth sponsored by the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church, its local churches, or Conference affiliated ministries CONFERENCE – The Mississippi Conference of The United Methodist Church NATIONAL BACKGROUND CHECK – A Background check that includes ■ National Criminal Background Check ■ National Sexual Offenders Check ■ Social Security Number Verification RESIDENTIAL CAMPING – Any overnight event is considered residential camping. This includes but is not limited to residential camping settings, conference camps, a conference or district lock-in, youth related overnight events, or mission work outside the boundaries of your residential dwelling STAFF PERSON – Any person employed by the conference who is responsible for youth or children’s activities SUPERVISOR – The person who has direct and immediate oversight and responsibility for any event VOLUNTEER – A person 18 years of age or older who assists in conducting youth or children’s activities under the supervision of a staff person VULNERABLE ADULT – Any person over 18 years of age with diagnosed diminished physical, mental, or emotional capacities 1. Selection and Recruitment of Staff and Volunteers 1.1 All persons employed to serve in a supervisory capacity for children/youth shall: 1.1.1 Be at least 21 years of age (in certain circumstances, such as Camp Wesley Pines and Camp Lake Stephens leadership, 18 years shall be the acceptable minimum age when combined with adequate training in the conference policies and procedures and competent oversight by a qualified adult, such as the camp director.) 1.1.2 No one shall be employed in a supervisory capacity unless he/she is at least four years older than the oldest student 1.1.3 Complete an application/commitment form 1.1.4 Provide three character references with full contact information 1.1.5 Demonstrate an active relationship with their local church for at least 6 months prior to employment 1.1.6 Be interviewed by the director of the ministry/program 1.1.7 Consent to a national background check 1.2 All volunteers serving in a supervisory capacity for children/youth shall: 1.2.1 Be at least 21 years of age 1.2.2 Complete an application/commitment form 1.2.3 Demonstrate an active relationship with their local church for at least 6 months prior to serving in a supervisory capacity 1.2.4 Be interviewed by the director of the ministry/program 1.2.5 Consent to a national background check 1.3 All volunteers serving in a helping capacity for children/youth shall: 1.3.1 Complete an application/commitment form 1.3.2 Be interviewed by the director of the ministry/program 1.3.3 Consent to a national background check 1.4 In the event that a substitute worker needs to be brought in under last-minute circumstances, that person must: 1.4.1 Complete an application/commitment form 1.4.2 Complete a basic orientation/training provided by the director or other supervisor before actually beginning work. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 159

1.5 All information obtained from background checks will be received and reviewed by the Conference Director of Connectional Ministries or their designee, who may, in their discre- tion, share applicable information with the appropriate supervisory staff person(s). Additionally, if the record of a staff member or candidate for a staff position shows a criminal conviction, the Conference Director of Connectional Ministries or their designee will consider the employment on a case-by-case basis. Otherwise all such information will be held in confidence, except for any disclosure required by lawful court action. 1.6 Any prospective volunteer or candidate for a staff position with a conviction for a sex offense or abuse or neglect of a minor is prohibited from work with children or youth. All other convictions will be considered on a case by case basis. 2. Training 2.1 Training must be a mandatory component of each event’s design. The design team shall be responsible for assuring that adequate insurance for the specific event and/or activities either from the conference or the district is in place. 2.2 The design team must have a person available at the event who is trained and certified to receive any report of allegations of abuse and follow through according to the conference guidelines and the requirements of state law. 2.3 All workers shall be trained annually in safety, first aid, and child abuse prevention. 2.4 Training shall include information, explanation, and discussion of : 2.4.1 The annual conference policy 2.4.2 Behaviors or other indicators which may signal problems 2.4.3 Requirements of Mississippi law for reporting incidents of abuse 2.4.4 Procedures for response to incidents of abuse and for reporting incidents of abuse. 2.5 All persons serving as directors shall complete certification training for processing allegations and reports of child abuse. 2.6 All workers and leaders will sign a covenant to abide by the conference policy at the conclusion of each training prior to an event. 3. Operational Procedures for Programs and Events All district and conference ministries with children/youth shall be governed by these guidelines: 3.1 Two unrelated adults shall be present at all times. 3.2 If there are both male and female participants, then the adult leaders should also include both males and females. 3.3 The number of adult leaders and chaperones required for each event (above the minimum of two) will be set by the established conference ratios as follows: 3.3.1 Day Care/ Nursery Programs (In compliance with Mississippi State Regulations) Infants (Non-handicapped & Not Walking) 1 Adult to 5 Infants Toddlers (Walking, Non-handicapped) 1 Adult to 9 Toddlers 2 years of age 1 Adult to 12 Children 3 years of age 1 Adult to 14 Children 4 years of age 1 Adult to 16 Children 5 years of age 1 Adult to 20 Children 6 years of age & Older 1 Adult to 25 Children 3.3.2 Mixed Age Groups 6 weeks to 30 months 1 Adult to 5 Children 2 to 4 years 1 Adult to 8 Children 2 to 3 years 1 Adult to 10 Children 1 2 ⁄2 to 3 years 1 Adult to 12 Children 1 2 ⁄2 to 5 years 1 Adult to 14 Children 160 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ)

3 to 5 years 1 Adult to 16 Children Grades 1-4 1 Adult to 16 Children Grades 5-12 1 Adult to 20 Children 3.3.3 Residential Camping Grades 1-8 1 Adult to 10 Children Grades 9-12 1 Adult to 12 Children 3.4 In residential camping situations, the adult chaperone must always be the same gender as the campers he/she is supervising. 3.5 Unauthorized visitors/volunteers will not be allowed to remain with the group. 3.6 Participants will not be allowed to leave the designated meeting area without permission/supervision. 3.7 During ministry events, one-on-one activities shall not be conducted “behind closed doors” or in an isolated area away from trained supervisory persons. 3.8 All ministry events will be carried out in appropriate locations with adequate equipment and trained adult supervisors present. 3.9 Registration materials for activities in which children are outside direct supervision of their parents/guardians shall require a signed written permission form that includes pertinent health information in order to participate. 3.10 If the participants are old enough to understand, they shall sign a covenant of participation listing rules for all trips, overnights, etc. 3.11 This paragraph three (3) shall be advisory guidelines only, as applied to ministries in the local church and shall not be considered as requirement for the local church. 4. Reporting Incidents 4.1 All reporting of alleged incidents or actual incidents of child abuse must strictly follow Mississippi law. 4.2 A worker who has reasonable cause to suspect that child abuse has occurred should secure the safety of the child, if possible, and then immediately report the incident to the director/supervisor and the certified safety person of the ministry event. It is never the responsibility of a worker with children or youth to investigate allegations of child abuse. The director/supervisor and the certified safety person will then follow all appropriate procedures for reporting to the child’s parents or guardian, authorities of the annual conference and/or district, and local law enforcement and/or child protective service agencies. 5. Responding 5.1 A quick, compassionate and unified response to an alleged incident of child abuse will be initiated. All allegations will be taken seriously. 5.2 The Communications Director of the Mississippi Conference of The United Methodist Church, or her/his designee, is the only person authorized to make statements to representatives of the media. All requests for statements should be directed to the appointed Safe Sanctuaries person for the event. 5.3 Pastoral support will be available to all persons involved in the incident. Conclusion We take our policies to reduce the risk of child abuse seriously and are committed to their enforcement for the safety and security of all our children, youth, and those who work with them. All conference and district ministry events are required to comply with these policies. Each conference ministry event shall be subject to review by the Safe Sanctuaries Committee of the Conference Office of Connectional Ministries and the conference staff person related to that event. Each district ministry event shall be subject to review by the executive committee of the District Council on Ministries or its equivalent. Conference and district ministry events not sponsored by the Conference Office of Connectional Ministries or the district council or its equivalent will be subject to review by the team, committee, or board that initiates the event. 2019 Pre-Conference Journal of the Mississippi Conference (SEJ) 161

Non-compliance with these policies shall result in potential loss of sponsorship by the Conference Office of Connectional Ministries, district council, or the sponsoring team, board, or committee. The Conference Office of Connectional Ministries shall review these policies and procedures at least biannually. MS Annual Conference Approved 2007

General Boards and Agencies General Commission on Connectional Table Archives and History 8765 W. Higgins Road, Suite 404 P.O. Box 127 Chicago, IL 60631 Madison, NJ 07940 773-714-1517 | 866-648-9584 973-408-3189 | www.gcah.com www.umc.org/connectionaltable General Board of Church and Society United Methodist Communications 100 Maryland Avenue, N.E. P.O. Box 320 Washington, DC 20002-5649 Nashville, TN 37202-0320 800-967-0880 | http://umc-gbcs.org 615-742-5400 | www.umcom.org General Council on General Board of Discipleship Finance and Administration P.O. Box 340003 1 Music Circle North Nashville, TN 37203-0003 Nashville, TN 37203 615-340-7200 | www.gbod.org 866-367-4232 | www.umc.org/gcfa General Board of Global Ministries General Board of 475 Riverside Drive Higher Education and Ministry New York, NY 10115 P.O. Box 340007 212-870-3600 | 800-862-4246 Nashville, TN 37203-0007 www.cmission.org 615-340-7400 | www.gbhem.org General Board of General Commission on Pension and Health Benefits Religion and Race 1901 Chestnut Avenue 100 Maryland Ave. NE, Suite 400 Glenview, IL 60025-1604 Washington, DC 20002 800-851-2201 | www.gbophb.org 202-547-2271 | www.gcorr.org General Commission on the Status Christian Unity and and Role of Women Interreligious Concerns 77 W. Washington Street, Suite 1500 475 Riverside Drive, Suite 300 Chicago, IL 60602 New York, NY 10115 800-523-8390 | www.gcsrw.org 212-870-3800 | www.ocuir.org www.umsexualethics.org

1-800 Board and Agency Telephone Numbers Free 800 telephone numbers are available for local church leaders who need answers or information concerning the ministries of the church, or actions of the boards and agencies of the church, or who need resources and curriculum for church use.

Info-Serve: Cokesbury: M-F, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Central) 1-800-672-1789 [email protected] M-F, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Upper Room Prayer: Sat., 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Central) 1-800-251-2468 www.cokesbury.com [email protected] [email protected]