The

News of Illinois Greaturrent Rivers Conference of The United Methodist Church Volume 12, NumberC 10 www.igrc.org June 2008 Hwang appointed Iroquois River District Superintendent Gilbert leaves Cabinet after four years for appointment to Murphysboro First By Paul Black Christopher said in making the announce- Through the ment in an email to Iroquois District cler- journey, Hwang A pastor who gy over the weekend. “With the leadership says she is sees her role as of the Pana United Methodist Church, hopeful for the a companion of Rev. Hwang has developed a disciple- church. “My her parishioners making system within the Pana church parish experi- as they embark that is bringing new life to the people of ence has given on a spiritual Pana and the world.” me confidence journey togeth- “I am very humbled and blessed to in God,” she er has been receive this new appointment,” Hwang said. “Disciple- named by said. “This is a new and unknown journey making has Bishop Sharon to me. I am filled with excitement and been my top pri- A. Brown gratitude, as well as a sense of fear. Such ority. I have In-Sook Hwang Larry Gilbert Christopher as initial feelings challenge me to kneel seen the change the new superintendent of the Iroquois down at the altar to pray, seeking God’s of hearts and growth of Christian lives River District. guidance, wisdom and strength.” through Alpha, Disciple, Companions in The Rev. In-Sook Hwang, currently Hwang describes her spiritual journey Christ and many short-term Bible studies. pastor of the Pana UMC, will become as “growing deeply in the wilderness.” I strongly believe that change is not an superintendent effective July 1. She suc- She notes her journey to the United States option, but God’s call moves us to step ceeds the Rev. Larry Gilbert, who is from her home country of Korea from the into the unknown place with faith.” returning to the local church after four family and only life she had known. “This Hwang also identifies with Illinois years on the Cabinet as pastor of wilderness journey guided me to hear farmers in seeing the need to plant seeds in Murphysboro First UMC. God’s call and to find a new life rooted in order to read a harvest. “We are living in “Rev. Hwang brings with her a vision of the love of Jesus Christ and to walk with great mission fields. The futures of our This issue of The Current includes the world and church to which God calls the community of faith. Each church I churches are in our time and hands,” she the special insert of the first issue of us, a passion for leading the church in its served has been my home and each con- said. “We can see so many people who are The Daily Current for this year’s mission, a deep and growing faith, and a gregation has become my family, my com- hungry for life-changing love and mean- Annual Conference. compassionate pastoral heart,” panions in my spiritual journey.” See Hwang on page 3 . . . U2Charist brings new style of worship They had to rush to get more bread for The Rev. Bob Morwell of Union UMC the Communion. and Rev. Wally Carlson of Melrose Chapel The crowd exceeded their wildest expec- are both fans of U2’s music and commit- tations at Quincy Union UMC in Quincy, ment to helping the needy. And, each had when, in cooperation with Melrose Chapel long harbored the desire to design worship UMC, they hosted the city’s first services around popular rock music. But U2Charist. neither had found either the church back- A U2Charist is a Eucharist (Communion ing, or the musical resources to realize service) built around the music of the leg- their dreams until they came to Quincy. endary rock group U2. The concept was When Morwell approached Carlson with first developed in an Episcopal church in the idea of putting on a U2Charist, it Baltimore, but rapidly went global. seemed the perfect time. Bono, the group’s lead singer, is a “I have absolutely no musical talent. The devout Christian who has also become a only instrument I play is the stereo, “ said globally respected advocate for the poor in Morwell. “But fortunately, Wally is a tal- Africa. He has been nominated for the ented musician, and that proved a great Nobel Peace Prize and was the featured help.” speaker at a recent Presidential Prayer During the service, Morwell played his Breakfast, where he declared, “God is in own keyboard, on a computer which pro- the slums, in the cardboard boxes where vided the visual images and videos. the poor play house. God is in the silence Rodney Hart, a local newspaper reporter, Photo by Steve Bohnstedt, Quincy Heralds-Whig of a mother who has infected her child with grown-up preacher’s kid, part-time rock Wally Carlson, pastor of Quincy Melrose Chapel, plays the guitar during the U2Charist a virus that will end both their lives. God is musician, and huge U2 fan, leaped at the service at Quincy Union UMC. in the cries heard under the rubble of war. idea of putting together a Coordinator Sheri Renner on keyboard going to be something special. All of the God is in the debris of wasted opportunity band for the service. Musicians including and doing backup vocals, came together musicians got together to practice a couple and lives, and God is with us if we are with Carlson on acoustic guitar and Adams and immediately felt something special. of times and we could tell from the begin- them.” County United Methodist Youth “From the start we all knew this was See U2Charist on page 4 . . . Page 2 Illinois Great Rivers Conference — The Current June 2008 People and Events in the News Cunningham Home contact Mary M. Brady at mmbrady@ support are in place for an excellent min- July 1. executive honored by UMA champaignfumc.org istry. Please direct applications and Howard Ross to Illinois City and Pine For an application for the Academy for resumes to Mr. Rich Well, Staff-Parish Bluff, Spoon River District, effective July Cloydia Hill Spiritual Formation, contact Jerry Haas at Relations Committee Chairperson, 127 N. 1. Larimore, CFRE, of [email protected]. The Aca- Fourth Street, Vandalia, Il. 62471. Fax618- Toni Ross to Illinois City and Pine Bluff, Cunningham demy for Spiritual Formation is an in-depth 283-3685. Spoon River District, effective July 1 Children’s Home was experience in Christian spiritual formation Larry A. Gilbert to Murphysboro, named Public Rela- for clergy and laity. Appointments Cache River District, effective July 1. tions, Marketing and Julie Azbell to Hamilton and Warsaw, Development Execu- Reinke motion to suppress Carl James Brown to Chaplain, VA LaMoine River District, effective July 1. tive of the Year by the taken under advisement Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio, extension min- Hiram Gonzalez to Kankakee: Trinity, United Methodist istry, effective June 1. Aroma Park, Bardley Evangelical, Cloydia Hill Larimore Association during A motion to suppress the alleged confes- Juan Carlos Lara Cardoso to Jesus de Associate, Vermilion River District, effec- their “Celebration of sion of a former local pastor accused of Nazaret, Spoon River, effective July 1. tive July 1. Note: This will be a three-point Excellence” banquet March 29. child pornography and child sexual abuse (Note: This is a change from FT to ¾ time). charge beginning July 1, 2008. Having served as Cunningham’s Vice has been taken under advisement by a The other ¼ time for him will be Twin Tim Gossett to Greenfield and President for Public Relations, Wayne County Circuit Judge. River Parish, Spoon River, effective July 1. Rockbridge, LaMoine River District, effec- Development and Marketing for the past Judge Paul Lamar rendered his decision Carol Stufflebeam to Twin River tive July 1. 17 years, Larimore was recognized for her following a 2 1/2 hour suppression hearing Parish, Spoon River, effective July 1. Connie Jenkins to Quincy: Grace and professional excellence and personal com- April 23. Kathy Tymonko to Westminster Village Columbus, LaMoine River District, effec- mitment to the children and youth of Reinke, who formerly served in the Resident Services, Vermilion River, effec- tive July 1. Cunningham Children’s Home. Illinois Great Rivers Conference as a local tive May 1. She will continue to serve as Patsy Kelly to Virden and Girard, Larimore has been an effective leader of pastor, was discontinued by Bishop Sharon Children’s Ministry Director until Aug. 31. LaMoine River District, effective July 1. the agency’s ongoing fundraising efforts A. Brown Christopher following the filing David Hultberg to Pana, Sangamon Richard Lewis to Marshall: First, and current major capital campaign. Just as of charges in April 2007. The charges River District, effective July 1. Embarras River, effective July 1. important, she has committed herself to include two Class X felonies of criminal David Kelly to Bright Star Parish, James A. Williams to Kankakee: building meaningful, lasting relationships sexual assault and one Class 1 felony LaMoine River District, effective July 1. Trinity, Aroma Park, Bradley: Evangelical, between Cunningham supporters, volun- charge of child pornography involving an Sheila Kelly to West Pike Parish (Hull effective July 1. (Note: This is the new teers, children and alumni. 11-year-old Wayne County boy. and New Canton), LaMoine River District, three-point charge beginning July 1.) The United Methodist Association of He remains free on $50,000 cash bond effective July 1. Brett Yates to Fairfield: Ellen Moore, Health and Welfare Ministries (UMA) is a pending an Aug. 18 trial. Michael Abel to Tiskilwa Community Kaskaskia River District, effective July 1. national association of more than 400 Church, Illinois River District, effective Change of status United Methodist- and faith-connected Deaths July 1. Brian Lee Manigold, appointed to agencies who are dedicated to providing Eric Swanson to Peoria: First, attend school, effective July 1. the highest quality of care. Al Geske, 82, printer in the graphic arts Associate, Illinois River District, effective Jeffrey Alan Haley surrender of creden- department of the Central Illinois July 1. tials effective May 5. Chase completes coursework Conference office for 23 years, died May Jarrett E. Wells to Farmington, Illinois Barbara Joann Anthony to Trinity of 20. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to River District, effective August 1. Hope: Bloomington: Faith, Bloomington: Retired pastor Ronald Chase has com- his wife Rose Marie Geske, 1213 S. Oak, In-Sook Hwang to extension ministry, Park and Bloomington: West Olive, pleted a two-year course of study and Bloomington, IL 61701. Iroquois River District Superintendent, Vermilion River District, effective received a graduate certificate in Spiritual effective July 1. February 14. Note: This is a change of sta- Direction at Aquinas Jobs available Dennis Powers to Murrayville, LaMoine tus from supply-not-appointed to PTLP. Institute of Theology, River District, effective July 1. Shalom S. Renner to Greenville: First, St. Louis University Choir Director, Grace UMC, Decatur, Terry Westerfield to Paxton, Iroquois Mississippi River District, effective May 9. Ill. Large established church with long his- River District, effective July 1. September 1, 2008. Chase retired from tory of high quality music ministry. Duties Joye Perry to Gifford and Ludlow, L. Dale Wilfong to Albion: First and full-time ministry at include but not limited to: direct adult choir Iroquois River District, effective July 1. Bethel, Kaskaskia River District, effective Columbia Bethany and bell choir, select choir music, assist Elton Storey to Mt. Vernon: Epworth, July 1, 2008. UMC in July 2007 and ministerial staff with worship service music Hopewell, and Zion, Kaskaskia River Mark Schleeter to Maroa, Sangamon is now serving as part- selection, worship service song leader, District, effective July 1. River District, effective July 1, 2008. Ronald Chase time assistant pastor at assist organize and perform special music, Lynette DeAtley to Cowden and Supply not appointed Belleville Union UMC with preaching assist and support all music programs. 15 to Lakewood, Embarras River District, effec- John Crede to Twin Rivers Parish, duties at New Athens UMC. 20 hours per week. Salary based on educa- tive July 1. Spoon River, effective July 1. Chase and his wife Renda reside in tion and experience. Resume and refer- Deryck Sonaram to Neoga and Etna, Larry D. Frank, Jr. to Cornell and Columbia. ences to: Pam Wentworth, Grace UMC, Embarras River District, effective July 1. Blackstone, Vermilion River, effective July 901 N. Main St., Decatur, IL 62521, fax Gabriel Wanck to Fairview Center, 1. Financial aid available for 217-429-8272, email pwentworth@ Spoon River District, effective July 1. Nathan R. Hopping to Braidwood two-year academy decaturgrace.org. Kim Dancey to Fithian, Oakwood and Streams of Hope, Vermilion River, effec- Director of Youth Ministries, First Hebron, Iroquois River District, effective tive July 1. Clergy have an opportunity to receive a UMC, Normal, Ill.. We are seeking a com- double financial boost if they attend the mitted Christian who will engage youth to The Current (USPS 014-964) is published monthly by the Illinois Great Rivers Conference two-year Academy for Spiritual grow spiritually and connect in service. of the United Methodist Church, 5900 South Second Street, Springfield, IL 62711. An indi- Formation. Candidate will work in cooperation with a vidual subscription is $10 per year. The IGRC Board of Ordained Ministry great corps of leaders and staff. Send The opinions expressed in viewpoints are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect provides up to $1,200 in aid to attend the resume to Pastor, 211 N. School Street, the views of The Current, the Illinois Great Rivers Conference, or The United Methodist Academy and The Upper Room has initiat- Normal, IL 61761 or . Church. ed a matching grant program called Youth Director, First UMC of Vandalia. Communications Team leader: Paul E. Black; team members: Catherine Flynn and Michele Willson. Send materials to P.O. Box 19207, Springfield, IL 62794-9207, tel. 217-529-2040, “Encouraging Spiritual Leaders” which Seeking a mature, committed person for will match the IGRC contribution. With fax 217-529-4155, e-mail [email protected], web page: www.igrc.org. Periodical’s full-time Youth Director. Church of 520 postage paid at Peoria, IL, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Please send funds provided by Academy friends and members is located one hour east of St address changes to “The Current,” Illinois Great Rivers Conference, P.O. Box 19207, alumni. Louis in a county seat town of 7,000. Springfield, IL 62794-9207. For financial assistance from the BOM, Competitive salary package; facilities and May 2008 Illinois Great Rivers Conference — The Current Page 3 District and Local Church News Hands of Hope celebration Hull congregation welcomes confirmands By Patsy Kelly Pastor, Hull UMC

Three mothers at Hull UMC received a special gift for Mothers Day this year. The usual Mothers Day services concluded with a celebration that welcomed four very special boys into membership of the church. These four boys comprised the whole of the Confirmation Class of ’07-’08, but even though the class lacked in numbers, the participants excelled in the quality of their efforts. The four young men shown in the picture “Leaning on the Rock,” are (from left to right): Wyatt Baker, son of Mr. and Mrs. Mike Baker; Drew Orr, son Photos by Paul Black

of Mr. and Mrs. David Orr; Erick Rueb, Photograph by Pat Likes A young fellow (above) tries his pitching prowess by tossing a ball toward a target, while son of Mrs. Debbie Rueb; and Dylan Orr, students. And in addition, they composed another youngster (below) tries to select the hula hoop he wants to play with. son of Mr. and Mrs. David Orr. their own articles of faith. During the During the months of study, these four month of June, the congregation is reciting Congregations of the Sangamon River Another $40,000 has been pledged. participated in the usual tasks asked of all these creeds. District joined together May 18 to raise In addition to the District Center, the $95,000 for Liberia, exceeding the goal of district will use the excess funds to pur- appointment has been difficult on my $52,000 which was needed to build the chase a truck for the Gbarnga District Hwang family and while it has been a true joy to Wealah District Center. Superintendent, its other partner district. Continued from page 1 get to know you and serve as your More than $55,000 was received during The remaining funds will be used to build ingful relationship with God and other Superintendent I am excited about the Hands of Hope, an event that featured car- churches in the Wealah and Gbarnga dis- people. People are spiritually and emo- opportunity to return south near my fami- nival games and musical groups. tricts. tionally hungry and thirsty. But they don’t ly,” Gilbert wrote. “It has been difficult see our churches as the places where their over the past few weeks to be in this time empty and longing hearts may be filled. of uncertainty and I am glad to be able to God challenges us to do new things in new finally announce my future plans. I have ways.” learned so much from all of you and look Prior to her appointment to the Cabinet, forward to returning to the pastoral min- Hwang has served Pana UMC, istry of the local church to see if I can turn Countryside UMC, Vergennes Wesley- any of what I have learned into effective Faith, Elkville-Carbondale Korean and ministry.” served as IGRC associate director of con- Contacted at General Conference, nectional ministries and congregational Christopher confirmed the appointment. development. She is also currently “All appointments made in the IGRC involved with the Two-Year Academy for are based on enabling all congregations to Spiritual Formation through Upper Room fulfill its mission of making disciples of Ministries. Jesus Christ for the transformation of the Hwang becomes the fourth superin- world by appropriately placing the mis- tendent to be part of a clergy couple. Her sional abilities of the pastor,” Christopher husband, Bong-Choul, is pastor of the said. “In addition with every appointment, Argenta-Warrensburg UMC charge in the the Cabinet and I consider the concerns Sangamon River District. The Hwangs and needs of clergy families. I am confi- Teen Choir visits Washington Evangelical UMC have two daughters, Soo-Jung, a social dent that in the Cabinet and my discern- worker in Boston; and Soo-Jin, a promo- ment of this appointment, all these con- tional product researcher and husband, cerns have been considered prayerfully.” Brad, in Murphysboro. Gilbert was appointed to the IGRC A graduate of Sung Kyun Kwan Cabinet in July 2004 as superintendent of University in Seoul, Korea, Hwang the Cache River District. Following the earned her M.Div. from Iliff School of reduction of districts from 12 to 10 at the Theology. She has been a member of the 2005 Annual Conference, Gilbert was General Board of Discipleship, the North appointed to the Iroquois River District Central Jurisdiction Mission Council, where he has served the past three years. chairperson of the National Association of “I give fervent thanks to Rev. Gilbert Korean-American Clergywomen and for his ministry as a Cabinet team mem- Chairperson of the National Association ber throughout the conference and the of Korean-American Pastors Who Are Iroquois River District,” Christopher said. Serving Cross-Cultural Appointments. “His commitment to living and leading Washington Evangelical UMC hosted Center of Peoria in a ministry called She was also a member of the leadership God’s vision and mission, his strong rela- the Grace Presbyterian Teen Choir of Metro Kidz. Each Saturday, the Dream team of the IGRC Human Mosaic Project. tional skills and his deep faith have Peoria recently. Center brings excitement to the children ■ Gilbert appointed to Murphysboro shaped us all and will shape those who are The choir, which consists of 60 young of Taft Homes through games, prizes, Gilbert announced the appointment in a part of Murphysboro First as well as people ranging from seventh to 12th songs as well as Bible-based lessons. an email to Iroquois district clergy April those in Murphysboro hungry for God grade, provided a musical program. Many For more information on this ministry, 27. who are not yet a part of any congrega- of the teens participate with the Dream visit www.dreamcenterpeoria.com “Most of you are well aware my current tion.” Page 4 Illinois Great Rivers Conference — The Current June 2008 District and Local Church News Signal Hill observes Heritage Sunday By Susan J. Meister Former pastors Jim Rhea, Scott Grulke and Terry Clark and their spouses spent the A beautiful spring afternoon greeted afternoon with new and old friends. David members and guests who attended the first Eadie, directing pastor at Mt. Vernon First Signal Hill UMC Heritage Sunday in the UMC, delivered remarks during the cele- Mississippi River District May 4. bration program. Third, fourth and fifth Welcoming doors were flung wide open to grade music students from neighboring greet everyone who stopped by to enjoy one Signal Hill School performed several of the many activities planned for the day. selections. Emcee Kanda Vallina, lay Sidewalk artist David Carr created an leader Sandy Smith, and current Pastor eye-catching piece of original art in front Peter Wehrly also spoke. of the church building. In the drawing, an “This was a tremendous opportunity for angel is presenting the Bible to the church Signal Hill UMC to show warm hospitali- “underneath” a large tree, reminiscent of ty to our community,” Wehrly exclaimed. the early Sunday school classes held under “This church began as a community the trees at Signal Hill School beginning in church in 1910, and we want to reclaim our 1910. Hampel’s Magic Circus of Lebanon, place in Signal Hill. entertained children of all ages in “This celebration was just the first in Photo by Don Bowers Fellowship Hall. The United Methodist what I hope will be many opportunities to Fountain to celebrate 150th anniversary Women served refreshments in Memorial share worship and fellowship opportunities Hall, and photos and historical artifacts with our friends and neighbors,” Wehrly Fountain UMC, located south of Marion will be held at noon with the Voices of were on display in Asbury Hall. continued. in the Cache River District, will celebrate Praise quartet being featured in the after- During the Open House, visitors saw its 150th anniversary with a Homecoming noon. new carpeting in the Upper Room (the For additional photos from the day, go celebration June 8. Fountain, which is pastored by Rev. Don 1926 sanctuary). Rooms of the Rainbow to www.signalhillumc.org. A story on The celebration will begin with 9:30 Bowers, began worshipping in 1858, has a Kids Child Care Center were also open. the celebration was featured in the April a.m. worship which will include several membership of 17 and has faithfully paid Displays by Lessie Bates Davis 26 Belleville News-Democrat at special guests. A potluck and catered lunch their apportionments in full each year. http://www.bnd.com/living/story/ Neighborhood House, McKendree world? University, B.E.A.C.O.N, and Blessed 321905.html on April 26. For more U2Charist information, contact the The worship also included a call to Believers Church of God in Christ (who Continued from page 1 action. U2 does not enforce any copy- borrows space for worship and Bible church at shumcoffice@ compu-type.net, 618-397-7780. ning that God had a hand in this,” Carlson rights on music used for a U2Charist, so study) attracted considerable attention. commented afterward. “It was more than long as it is billed as a worship service, just us. Way more.” and a collection to benefit Africa is taken. The response was also way more than The beneficiary of the Quincy service was anticipated. People came from as far as 50 Nothing But Nets, a program supported miles away to pack the Union UMC sanc- by the UMC, the Bill and Melinda Gates tuary April 27. The crowd ranged in age Foundation, the NBA, and several other from 1 to 80, and across the age spectrum, groups to provide nets to protect people they rocked out to a combination of live from malaria bearing mosquitoes. They music and videos. collected enough money to protect 300 Looking out on the growing crowd, people. Carlson said, “No matter how this turns The congregation heard, by phone, out. This will be the coolest thing I’ve from the Rev. Herbert Zigbuo, a Liberian done in 32 years of ministry!” missionary who has helped to distribute It proved to be really cool. those nets through the UMC in Liberia. But it was not just entertainment. There After closing with a rousing encore of was a message. The theme was What If… the song When Love Comes to Town the What if we really took Jesus seriously? congregation was asked if they would like What if we believed he is to be found in to have similar services in the future. The the poor, the sick, the oppressed, the response was a thunderous, “YES!” homeless, and the hungry? What if we Morwell and Carlson are already plan- really believed that he is even in people ning future services. The next one will Photo by Susan J. Meister draw upon the works of Johnny Cash, Belleville artist David Carr (left) created an original piece of sidewalk different from us? What if, we really believed his love for us could transform whose appeal also spans generations and art in front of Signal Hill UMC to commemorate the beginnings of the us, and then empower us to transform the several genres of music. church in 1910. Missionary Near the gate into her apartment com- complex. “Everyone has a cell phone in reach 50,000, according pound, a high school student was collect- China, so many were busily text-messag- to China’s state-run Continued from page 12 ing clothes for survivors and already had ing friends and family members or call- Xinhua news agency. tic canvas sheets had been draped over four plastic bags full. ing to make sure they were safe,” she While about 60 of the outdoor exercise equipment, providing Wieck happened to be at home when wrote. “The atmosphere quickly lifted complex’s residents quite a cozy corner for the 100 or so stu- the earthquake hit, forcing her to leave from one of fright to one of a pleasant chose to spend the night dents who managed to claim that space. her first-floor apartment with her dog and outing together with friends and family.” outside, some spent “a The sports field had also been opened. I Little Ghost, an abandoned kitten she had It wasn’t until she returned to her apart- restless sleep in our own Connie Wiek calculated 400 or more crashed on the rescued a month earlier. ment that evening that Wieck discovered, beds,” Wieck wrote. asphalt.” Others there in the early afternoon - the by surfing the Internet and watching local “Every quiver of the building had us Just outside the campus, university stu- elderly, young mothers or those in private television stations, the magnitude of the wondering if it would suddenly become dents had set up a booth and were accept- business with flexible working hours - earthquake. The quake registered 7.9 on as strong as the first.” ing donations for the earthquake victims. gathered on the grounds of her apartment the Richter scale, and the death toll could June 2008 Illinois Great Rivers Conference — The Current Page 5 General Conference 2008 General Conference acts on wide range of issues By J. Richard Peck two-thirds vote of the aggregate total of annual conferences. A 20-member com- FORT WORTH, Texas (UMNS) — The mittee will bring recommendations to the 2008 United Methodist General 2012 assembly. Conference opened its legislative session In separate action, The United on April 23 with a Communion service Methodist Church in Côte d’Ivoire, the celebrated at a wooden table fashioned largest regional conference of the world- from trees destroyed by Hurricane wide denomination with almost 700,000 Katrina. members, received its full rights and For the next 10 days, delegates heard responsibilities. As a result, United stirring speeches and sermons offered Methodists in the West African country, from a pulpit made of the same hurricane- which has only two delegates at this damaged trees—taken from the historic General Conference, will receive signifi- Gulfside Assembly retreat center in cantly greater representation at future Waveland, Miss. Both the pulpit and the assemblies. Communion table served as reminders of Delegates approved $20 million for physical and spiritual storms and the com- Africa University in Zimbabwe; $10 mil- mon faith that links members of the 11.5 lion was already budgeted in apportioned A UMNS A photo by Mike DuBose million-member church. funds, and $10 million will be raised Delegates to the 2008 United Methodist General Conference donate money to the Under the theme A Future with Hope— through World Service Special Gifts. Nothing But Nets campaign against malaria in observance of World Malaria Day on Making Disciples for Jesus Christ for the Delegates also approved $2 million to April 25. The assembly is being held April 23-May 2 in Fort Worth, Texas. Transformation of the World, the confer- help United Methodist theological ence began on the 40th anniversary to the schools in Africa train additional pastors. Conference delegates play active role in day when the Evangelical United ■ Budget Brethren Church united with the The delegates approved a $642 million legislative process Methodist Church to form The United denominational spending plan for the next By Paul Black In the petition’s rationale, Winkler Methodist Church. four years built around four areas of focus wrote: “(John) Wesley’s emphasis on The 2008 meeting ended on May 2 with for the immediate future: Legislation calling for the convening of stewardship, social justice and personal a worship service led by Bishop Gregory • Developing principled Christian lead- a multi-agency task force to establish a holiness compels faithful United Palmer, the new president of the church’s ers. standard for socially responsible investing Methodists, both individually and institu- Council of Bishops, declaring hope for • Creating new places for new people was passed with a commitment to “holy tionally, to assure that the financial assets the church through the power of the Holy by starting new congregations and renew- conferencing” prior to taking any action to under their control not only avoid doing Spirit. ing existing ones. divest or boycott from that company. harm but to also be engaged in industries In between, the assembly approved a • Engaging in ministries with the poor. The amendment, which was offered by and economic practices that work for the $642 million denominational budget for • Improving global health, especially Rev. Dr. Timothy Bias, senior pastor of betterment of humankind.” the next four years and created a hymnal attacking the killer diseases of poverty. Peoria First UMC and head of the IGRC The petition — 80832 — reads as fol- revision committee. It generally retained It was the first time the church has delegation, came as a result of recent lows: the church’s stances on homosexuality, developed a budget on an outcome-based action calling for the divestment of United Socially Responsible Investment Task including the declaration in the church’s model, and church leaders celebrated the Methodist investments in Caterpillar Force Social Principles that homosexual prac- collaborative process used to reach a con- Corp. The petition, which was filed in The General Board of Church and tice is “incompatible with Christian teach- sensus among general agencies and other October by a work group of the General Society, the General Board of Global ing.” Delegates opened the door to signif- interests. Board of Church and Society, sought Ministries, the General Board of Pension icant structural changes as the church The budget is 4.8 percent higher than divestment due to Caterpillar’s earth- and Health Benefits, The United works to address its increasingly global the spending plan for the 2005-2008 peri- moving equipment being allegedly used to Methodist Church Foundation and the nature. And it tweaked the denomina- od. demolish Palestinean settlements. National Association of United Methodist tion’s mission statement to read: “The ■ Presentations “I have had first-hand experience with Foundations shall convene a joint task mission of the church is to make disciples U.S. President George W. Bush, a this issue for the past six months,” Bias force, under the leadership of The United of Jesus Christ for the transformation of United Methodist, declined an invitation told the 992 delegates assembled. “We Methodist Church Foundation, for the the world.” to speak, though he and first lady Laura have said we are committed to holy con- purpose of including attempts to engage in ■ The worldwide church Bush sent greetings. ferencing, and yet, much of what hap- holy conferencing with companies; estab- The assembly reflected changing demo- Instead, another United Methodist head pened with Caterpillar could have been lishing, implementing and promoting a graphics, as membership has shrunk in the of state––Liberian President Ellen avoided had people sat down and talked common standard for determining prohib- United States while growing in Africa and Johnson Sirleaf––delivered an address with one another.” ited investments and positive investment the Philippines and parts of Europe. that was an assembly highlight. Bias explained that divestment and boy- principles that are consistent with The This gathering was less centered on “This is a special honor for me,” she cotting may still be options “but only after United Methodist Social Principles and issues confined to the United States than said. “I am the first African leader and the we have made an effort to be in conversa- that can be utilized by both individual and at previous assemblies. That was partially first female president to address the tion with the affected companies.” institutional investors. We urge the Task because 278 of the 992 delegates came General Conference of The United At Bias’ urging, Church and Society Force to seriously consider global human from outside of the United States––100 Methodist Church.” Her message includ- General Secretary Jim Winkler, who rights needs, for example, the Middle more than attended the 2004 session. It ed that “Liberia is on the way back” after authored the original petition for the task East, Sudan and China. This task force also was the result of proposals from a years of civil war. force, and Caterpillar CEO Jim Owens shall report its progress to the 2012 task force studying the global nature of William H. Gates Sr., co-chair of the met in January to discuss their concerns. General Conference. the church. Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, As a result, a statement was issued by Two petitions filed by IGRC lay dele- Delegates approved 23 constitutional thanked the denomination for being a Caterpillar denouncing the use of gate David Hood (Petitions 80481 and amendments that would make it possible partner in the Nothing But Nets campaign Caterpillar equipment for “immoral pur- 80096) were also considered by the full to change the church’s U.S.-centric struc- to eliminate malaria in Africa. More than poses” and Church and Society pulled its General Conference. ture to a more uniform global structure. $20 million has been raised since the petition a week prior to General Petition 80481 sought a required annual The amendments must be ratified by a See General Conference on page 6 … Conference. See Conference Delegates on page 7 … Page 6 Illinois Great Rivers Conference — The Current June 2008 General Conference 2008 A UMNS A photo by Paul Jeffrey. The Hope for Africa Children’s Choir performs for the 2008 United Methodist General UMNS A photo by Mike DuBose Conference on April 29 in Fort Worth, Texas. Bishop Thomas Bickerton holds a basketball, signed by United Methodist bishops at the 2008 United Methodist General Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. The basketball was filled with songs, multimedia and multi- auctioned to benefit the Nothing But Nets campaign against malaria, raising $429,030. sensory images about how people receive and give hope, and are transformed by to spend large quantities of time engaging churches not to reject or condemn lesbian encounters with Christ. She attributed the unchurched. and gay members and friends.” some of the U.S. membership decline to Choirs from all over the world per- On the day after emotional debate and “ruptures in our United Methodist rela- formed during the assembly. votes on many of the issues, approximate- tionships. Left or right, conservative or Presentations by the 23-member Hope for ly 250 advocates for full inclusion were liberal, we treat our baptized brothers and Africa Children’s Choir, including many allowed to walk silently through the aisles sisters as if they are our enemies” and Ugandan children from displaced per- of the legislative gathering as an act of seek to destroy those who have a different sons’ camps, were among the musical protest. Participants covered the viewpoint or perspective, she said. highlights. Communion table with a black shroud to General Conference The first-ever Young People’s Address ■ Homosexuality mourn the church’s position in its Social was delivered by six young people of dif- General Conference essentially upheld Principles and the conference’s actions Continued from page 5 ferent ages and backgrounds. The presen- the status quo on sexuality issues. that deny gays and lesbians the right to campaign began in 2006. The church tation included videos, photos, drumming In retaining its stance declaring homo- serve as clergy. recently learned it will receive a $5 mil- and singing. “We have shared stories of sexual practice “incompatible with Palmer expressed a “deep sense of grat- lion grant from the United Nations persecution, homelessness, and what it Christian teaching,” the assembly reject- itude” for both how the demonstration Foundation with help from the Gates means to be a young person in a world ed a majority report from a legislative was handled and how delegates and bish- Foundation on other health initiatives. desperately in need of Jesus,” said Matt committee that recommended new lan- ops responded. General Conference dedicated most of Lockett of Seattle, one of the presenters. guage that faithful people disagree on the In other actions related to sexuality, the its second day of business to a series of “What you do with what you have heard topic but that “all seek a faithful witness.” conference: addresses designed to provide vision for is really up to you.” A 516-416 vote replaced the majority • Asked the United Methodist Board of the future of The United Methodist Lyn Powell, lay leader of the North report with a minority report calling for Church and Society to develop education- Church. Georgia Conference, delivered the Laity retention of the incompatibility clause. A al resources and materials on the effects Bishop Sharon Brown Christopher used Address. She challenged lay members to subsequent final vote of 501-417 made it of homophobia and heterosexism, the dis- an innovative format to deliver the assume responsibility for reaching the official. crimination or prejudice against lesbians Episcopal Address on behalf of the unchurched and said it is unreasonable for The assembly affirmed that all people or gay men by heterosexual people. Council of Bishops. The message was clergy, with their myriad responsibilities, are “individuals of sacred worth created • Continued the policy of not funding in the image of God.” Delegates also groups that promote the acceptance of retained statements asking “families and See General Conference on page 7 … A UMNS A photo by Maile Bradfield During the May 2 celebration moment, Bishops Gregory Palmer Sharon Brown

Christopher share highlights of the 2008 United Methodist General Conference in Fort Photo by Paul Black Worth, Texas. Sarah Isbell discusses legislation with other subcommittee members. June 2008 Illinois Great Rivers Conference — The Current Page 7 General Conference 2008 Photo by Paul Black

A UMNS A photo by Mike DuBose. Reserve delegate Melissa Calvill studies legislation in the independent commission Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, president of Liberia, addresses the 2008 United Methodist committee. General Conference on April 29 in Fort Worth, Texas. Sirleaf is a United Methodist and the first female head of state in Africa. General Conference 540 fewer than the number processed by the 2004 session, but the body had one Continued from page 6 less day to work. Former General homosexuality, but noted that funds also Conference sessions lasted 12 days but should not go to groups that violate took a day of rest at the midpoint on church principles against rejecting or con- Sunday. This year, as a cost-saving meas- demning lesbians, gays and friends ure, the assembly met 10 days, including • Retained language defining marriage Sunday as a work day. as a relationship between one man and The loss of the day of rest took its toll one woman. on the conference, however, and delegates • Let stand language in the Book of voted to reinstate that day for the next Discipline regarding pastoral authority assembly in 2012. over church membership. Delegates created a 24-member stand- The church did not take action to ing committee on faith and order to help remove transgender pastors from min- bishops and the church reflect on matters istry, leaving the Rev. Drew Phoenix to of faith, doctrinal teaching, order and dis- IGRC delegates open each day of General Conference with prayer. Photo by Paul Black lead his Baltimore congregation. Phoenix cipline. The group also will provide study transitioned from female to male about materials upon the request of the bishops, tion of a study authorized by the 2004 ration of ordination and conference mem- two years ago. the Connectional Table or General assembly on the church’s ordering of min- bership, and the streamlining of the ■ Legislative process Conference. istry. The 28-member study group is to ordained ministry candidacy process. The assembly received 1,564 proposals, The conference called for a continua- address the ordering of ministry, the sepa- See General Conference on page 8

finance committees develop written finan- Delegates cial policies to document the internal Continued from page 5 accounting controls, with an annual review audit for local churches. The level of detail by the finance committee and a report would be based upon the size of the oper- given to the charge conference. ating budget. Churches with an operating Three petitions filed by the Rev. Howard budget of more than $2 million would be Bell (Petitions 80991, 80992, 80993) were encouraged to have the audit done by a rejected. certified public accounting firm; churches Petition 80991 sought retention of lan- with budgets of between $1 and 2 million guage in paragraph 214, while 80992 and would have the option of the more inten- 80993 sought to give pastors access to sive audit or engaging a CPA to perform an their supervisory files. Supervisory files “agreed upon procedures” review. are not the personnel records of the confer- Churches with less than $1 million operat- ence which are open to review by pastors. ing budget could elect to have an informal The Judicial Council affirmed in Decision audit or an “agreed upon procedures” 765 that disclosure of these records are not review by a volunteer committee. required unless items are moved to the While the General Conference rejected personnel file. the different levels of accountability based Bell is seeking a declaratory decision on budget, much of Hood’s language was concerning access in two separate resolu-

Photo by Paul Black incorporated into legislation that was tions that will be before the 2008 annual Dave Hood authored a piece of legislation that was approved by General Conference adopted by the General Conference. conference (see related article on page 3 of and had a second bill that was incorporated into a change of disciplinary language Petition 80096, which was adopted by the Pre-Conference section). regarding financial accountability and transparency. the full session, requires each local church Page 8 Illinois Great Rivers Conference — The Current June 2008 General Conference 2008 Henry-Crowe is dean of Cannon General Conference Chapel and religious life at Emory Continued from page 7 University. Gray returned to private law Delegates approved the creation of a practice in Kansas City, Mo., last fall after hymnal revision committee and author- 20 years as a family court judge. Joyner, a ized it to bring a proposed hymnal to the retired member of the North Carolina 2012 General Conference. An additional Conference, is serving as an interim dis- group will investigate the possibility of an trict superintendent. Africana hymnal that incorporates music Angela Brown of California-Nevada, and liturgy from Africa––as well as Ruben Reyes of the Philippines, the Rev. Caribbean, African-American and other Kathi Austin-Mahle of Minnesota and the traditions with African roots. Rev. Bill Lawrence of North Texas also ■ Constitutional amendments were elected as new members. Beth General Conference passed a number of Capen, New York Conference, and the amendments to the church’s constitution, Rev. Dennis Blackwell, Greater New which now await action from annual Jersey, will complete their eight-year (regional) conferences. All constitutional terms in 2012. amendments approved by a two-thirds ■ Social action A UMNS A photo by Maile Bradfield vote of General Conference must be rati- Delegates urged U.S. lawmakers to A delegate catches a quick nap in between presentations on the eighth day of the 10-day fied by a two-thirds affirmative vote of ensure that immigration laws don’t tear 2008 United Methodist General Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. The delegates worked the aggregate number of voting annual families apart, and they advocated for their way through more than 1,500 petitions up for consideration. members. “full protection of all workers.” Delegates passed a constitutional General Conference voted 416-384 for Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, The assembly increased the retirement amendment that reduces from two to one the United Methodist Board of Church in which each church recognizes the age of bishops from 66 to 68 and the the number of years a person must be a and Society and the Women’s Division of other’s ministry and mission, the authen- retirement age of other ordained clergy professing member of a local church the Board of Global Ministries to contin- ticity of the other’s baptism and from 70 to 72. before he or she can be a member of an ue as members in the Religious Coalition Eucharist, and the interchangeability of Concerned about finances, delegates annual conference. for Reproductive Choice. ordained ministers. The ELCA’s assembly approved a plan that will result in one less Annual conferences also will vote on The assembly added a statement on will act on the agreement in 2009. bishop in four of the five U.S. jurisdic- proposals that provide for newly created abortion to the Social Principles offering Delegates learned that church members tions, beginning in 2012. The savings will conferences to be represented at general, “ministries to reduce unintended pregnan- raised $3 million to restore churches dam- be used to fund new episcopal areas else- jurisdictional or regional conferences on a cies” and to assist the ministry of crisis aged by Hurricane Katrina. More than where. The action will not affect the non-proportional basis. The issue arose pregnancy and support centers that help $60 million was given through the United Southeastern Jurisdiction, which already after the Côte d’Ivoire Conference was women “find feasible alternatives to abor- Methodist Committee on Relief for elects one less bishop than the present assigned two delegates for the 2008 tion.” humanitarian aid in the Gulf Coast. formula allows. General Conference. Stating that Israel continues to violate The 40th anniversary of the founding of Pastors or district superintendents may One amendment would enable local international law by building a wall on the denomination also marked the 40th now ask the bishop to give sacramental pastors, associate members and provi- Palestinian land, the conference called anniversary of the dissolution of the authority to a deacon if an elder is not sional members to join ordained ministe- upon Israelis and Palestinians to uphold Central Jurisdiction, a racially based present. That right is confined to the loca- rial members in full connection in voting U.N. resolutions and International Court structure, and the formation of the tion of a deacon’s primary appointment. for delegates to General and jurisdictional of Justice rulings. Commission on Religion and Race. The In areas where it would take a great deal conferences. To vote, local pastors must Delegates called on United Methodists assembly also celebrated the 60th of time to deliver the sacraments to peo- have completed the Course of Study or to divest funds from companies that sup- anniversary of the Advance and the 100th ple, a layperson is given the right to deliv- master of divinity degree and have served port the government of Sudan in order to anniversary of ministry to Methodist er the Communion elements. under appointment for two consecutive end the genocide in that area. men, the Social Creed and the Board of People who join United Methodist years immediately preceding an election. The conference asked the Board of Pension and Health Benefits. churches henceforth will promise to be Only ordained members in full connec- Church and Society to identify and pub- Several health and wellness petitions faithful in “their witness” as well as in tion with an annual conference may be lish on its Web site educational resources sponsored by the pension board were their “prayers, their presence, their gifts delegates. on stem-cell research. The resolution adopted. and their service.” If annual conferences ratify another encourages pastors to use the resources to amendment, then local churches, jurisdic- become informed about the use of embry- tional and General Conference, “organiza- onic stem cells for medical research and tions, groups, committees, councils, to offer these resources for study in local boards and agencies” will have to adopt churches. ethics and conflict-of-interest policies. Noting that more than 400 people have These policies will apply to both members been put to death in Texas since 1982, the and employees to help them “embody and assembly asked the Texas legislature to live out our Christian values.” end executions. Another constitutional amendment The body encouraged the implementa- would make it clear all persons shall be tion of the universal school lunch pro- eligible to attend worship services and, gram and also called for equal rights of upon taking vows, become church mem- men with regard to parental leave and bers. child custody. ■ Judicial Council On the 100th anniversary of the Social The Rev. Susan Henry-Crowe is the Creed, delegates decided that a proposed new president of the Judicial Council, new creed would serve the church better becoming the first woman to lead the as a “companion litany.” It has been set to denomination’s nine-member “supreme music. court.” The other new leaders are Jon R. ■ Other items Photo by Paul Black Gray, vice president, and the Rev. Belton General Conference approved a full Members of the IGRC delegation lift their hands and voices during one of the General Joyner, secretary. communion agreement with the Conference worship services. June 2008 Illinois Great Rivers Conference — The Current Page 9 District and Local Church News Macomb Wesley UMC celebrates 175 years of ministry and mission Street, which currently houses the First Baptist Church. In 1938, the name was changed to First Methodist Church, reflecting the uniting of the Methodist Episcopal Church, the Methodist Episcopal Church South and the Protestant Methodist Church. The congregation moved into a new facility at 1212 W. Calhoun with the intent to minister more directly to the Western Wesley also has a long history of min- Helm, Campus Crusade for Christ, St. Illinois University community as well as istries to WIU students, which evolved Louis. Mo.

Photos courtesy of Macomb Wesley UMC the region around Macomb in 1958; and the into the present Wesley Foundation, simi- ■ History of Methodism MACOMB — Macomb Wesley UMC sanctuary was built and consecrated for lar to other Wesley Foundation ministries The development of the Methodist put a capstone on the congregation’s cele- worship in 1963. The latest major renova- found on campuses across the nation. Church began in the evangelical move- bration of 175 years of missions and min- tion was in 2001 with the addition of the ■ Locals from Wesley serving in mis- ment begun by an Anglican priest, Rev. istries April 13 with a commemoration at Atrium, new classrooms and kitchen facili- sion and ministry Dr. John Wesley, and his brother, Rev. Dr. both Sunday morning worship services. ty in the area formerly occupied by the cen- There are several people in the ordained Charles Wesley in England. Both John and Rev. Joel Catlin, minister of discipleship tral garden. ministry of the United Methodist Church Charles had significant religious awaken- at O’Fallon First UMC presented a portray- Wesley UMC administers the Wallace (UMC) or serving in some mission activi- ings in 1738. In the years following, the al of frontier preacher Peter Cartwright. and Lulu Fellheimer Trust, which it ty who were raised up in or were related to Wesleys led a spiritual revival within the ■ History and ministries received around 1973. More than $10 mil- WUMC. They include: Rev. Randall Church of England and are often credited Wesley UMC received its current name lion has been give away over the past 34 Perry, Normal Calvary UMC; Rev. Roger as having prevented a civil war in England in 1968, with the merger of the Methodist years in scholarships and grants to other Perry, Champaign New Horizons UMC; during the period of social upheaval due to Church and the Evangelical United churches, missions and local social justice Rev. Bill Adams, Mossville UMC; Rev. the industrial revolution. Brethren Church. However, it was more ministries. Jay Regennitter, Moline Riverside UMC; The movement spread to the American than a century earlier, in the fall of 1832, In 1974 Wesley members laid the Rev. Gina Sheridan, Colchester-Tennessee colonies and was led by lay preachers and when the church was established by groundwork for the building of Wesley UMC; Rev. Alan Newhall East Peoria lay leaders. Wesley provided a “Book of Cartwright, a contemporary of Abraham Village and pledged the recently received First UMC; Rev. Paul Newhall, Cuba Discipline” for the organizing and disci- Lincoln. Fellheimer Trust to insure the startup build- Circuit UMC; Rev. Sidney Crowcroft, plining of the formative churches in the Under Rev. Cartwright’s guidance, the ing loans. Wesley Village now stands as a retired; Michael Sheagren, New Missions colonies. church, known first as the Methodist separate institution related to the Illinois Systems International, Fla.; and Stefan Episcopal Church of Macomb and later Great Rivers Conference as part of its renamed First Methodist Episcopal Church, Health and Welfare Ministries network in Vermilion Great Ingathering a success sprang from the gathering of the families of Illinois. Five and a half trucks were filled with came from the Mazon UMC. The David Carter, Francis Simpson, Jesse The Wesley Christian Child items for the United Methodist Methodist church’s NOW Committee sponsored a McGinnis, John Walker, John Banks and Development Center was opened in 1974, Mission in Kentucky at the Vermilion collection called Shoes for Souls. others. The first building of worship was providing a variety of learning experiences River District United Methodist Men’s The committee asked parishioners made of logs and was a mere 18 by 20 feet including stories, music, art, language Great Ingathering April 20. to check their closets for shoes that they in size. Several other buildings replaced development, science and nature study, Cash donations totaling $1,445 were hadn’t worn in years, that were just col- this first one, until a great building effort in field trips and indoor-outdoor play, all also received for Africa University, lecting dust, and do a little Spring house 1897 produced the building on Carroll within a Christian atmosphere. Heifer Project International, Hope of cleaning at the same time! In about three Hearing, Chaddock School, Baby Fold weeks, over 850 pairs of shoes were col- and Volunteers of Mexico. lected! More than 30 district churches partici- Pastor Mark Amenda blessed the shoes pated in the event. before they left, and also the people who One of the more unique collections would be receiving them. will take up to three years for the last per- Thanks son/family to be able to return to their Continued from page 10 home. I understand 66 homes in Watseka Wide offering that provided $26,445.66 must be elevated out of the flood plain, for our two counties. while other homes will be demolished. Our Long-Term Recovery Committee Many homes need extensive repair. continues to be actively involved in We are grateful for the efforts of the assisting persons to rebuild their homes American Red Cross, FEMA, and other and lives. Mr. Rick Hill, an UMCOR social service agencies and government Consultant, spent two days in Watseka in agencies. They have provided invaluable mid-April training persons to be Case assistance and resources. However, Managers. We are in the process of doing FEMA estimates that 234 families have informal Needs Assessments and we some level of unmet need, which our Long-Term Recovery Committee will Photos courtesy of Galesburg First UMC expect that the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee will provide a work seek to meet as best as we can. We still Lemonade for Liberia team to conduct formal needs assessments have a lot of work ahead of us. The third, fourth and fifth grade Sunday They made signs and decorated the for us in the next three to four weeks. We Again, thank you for your generous School Class at Galesburg First UMC lemonade stands. fully anticipate needing work teams to response and support. Please feel free to recently raised $1000 to purchase mos- The church’s pastor, Dr. Scott Grulke, help with home refurbishing and rehabili- contact me if you have questions or addi- quito nets for those in need in Liberia. had recently traveled to Liberia and when tation throughout the summer, and per- tional concerns. The children got up early for two he returned, had spoken of the need for haps beyond. A Church World Service Paul Copeland, Watseka First UMC Sundays before the sales began in April to mosquito netting to prevent the deadly representative, based on her extensive [email protected] advertise their plan to the congregation. disease, malaria. experience in disaster relief, expects it Page 10 Illinois Great Rivers Conference — The Current June 2008 Youth Ministries and New Streams Our not-so-favorite things Ames to speak at Junior High YAR By Beth Fender the spiritual life of the giver. Tithing, or Awards, Songwriter of the Year and Artist Coordinator of New “percentage giving” (as it is described in of the Year at the 2006 KCCM Awards and Streams Herb Miller’s New Consecration Sunday was the first ever recipient of the Spirit of Stewardship Program), requires that we Unity Award presented at the 2006 Indie An article in last trust God to provide for our needs even as Momentum Awards in Nashville, Tenn. month’s issue of The we increase our giving toward a goal of “Every life holds places of brokenness Current discussed the 10% or more of our income. Tithing push- and mine is no different. But in the grace Beth Fender three spiritual practices es us to acknowledge God’s sovereignty in of Jesus, we are loved... and our wounds that seem to be all areas of our lives, and it is a tangible are being tended…” Chris shows there is a “favorite” practices in the Illinois Great affirmation that God is the source of all we light stronger than any darkness and even Rivers Conference, based on results from have. It often requires us to consider how when we can’t see the light we know we last fall’s congregational survey. In addi- we spend our money in terms of God’s pri- have to hold on and believe. tion to the favorite practices, which orities, rather than our own desires. Ames is active in ministry, especially in included the Lord’s Supper, worship, and The discipline that received the most Christopher Ames the support of the work being done at prayer, the survey also revealed some “never” responses is fasting. While For many years Christopher Ames has Remuda Ranch and Ophelia’s Place. “least favorite” practices – those most Wesley regularly fasted twice a week, fast- been cutting through the issues that can Remuda Ranch is a treatment program likely to receive responses of “never/no.” ing is not a popular practice today. Perhaps divide and distract us. Whether we come designed to help women and adolescent Among the least favorite practices was the only exposure to this practice in many as a prodigal, a seeker, or with the faith of girls struggling with anorexia, bulimia and the use of John Wesley’s General Rules as churches is when the youth group partici- a child... the music of Christopher Ames related issues. Christopher has a personal a guide for daily living. Based on verbal pates in a 30-hour famine to raise aware- will call us to consider the love of God testimony with Remuda Ranch as his own feedback and comments written in the ness of world hunger. As Kenda Creasy through Jesus Christ and to live a humble, wife has been struggling with an eating margin, the low popularity of this practice Dean notes in Opening Ourselves to Grace but abundant, life. disorder for many years. Christopher’s is primarily due to unfamiliarity with (the DVD produced through the New Ames uses his music to get to the heart thoughts come from the perspective of Wesley’s General Rules. This should not Streams initiative), fasting does not even of our faith and to tell the story of his jour- “husband and father” and how he has had be surprising in a culture in which fewer have to be about food. It is about emptying ney thus far. He’s a simple guy. An earth- to deal with this disease in his own family. people are “brand loyal” when choosing a ourselves of those things that interfere ly guy. A loving husband. A dad... When For more information regarding Remuda church. While our churches do include with our relationship with God. Many of he’s on stage his message comes from the Ranch, visit the Remuda Ranch website at many lifelong members of The United us would find spiritual benefits in a fast depths of his soul. www.remuda-ranch.com. Methodist Church or its predecessor from e-mail, or cell phones, or other elec- Ames will be the guest speaker at Jr. The mission of Ophelia’s Place is to denominations, we also welcome into tronic devices that consume so much of High YAR “Renew”, held Oct. 17-19 at offer support and encouragement to indi- membership many people who were raised our time and energy. In the silence that Lake Williamson Christian Retreat Center viduals, family and friends faced with the in other Christian traditions (or with no would result from such a fast, we might in Carlinville. Registration forms and personal challenges and obstacles associ- religious background at all), with no expo- find it easier to hear the still, small voice details are available by visiting ated with eating disorders. Ophelia’s Place sure to the teachings of John Wesley. of God. http://youth.igrcamp.org. The registra- is dedicated to promoting a healthy However, even lifelong UMC membership It is interesting to note the contrast tion deadline is Sept. 19. The cost to lifestyle by emphasizing the Christian, does not guarantee that our members have between our least favorite practice, fast- attend, including worship, small groups, emotional and physical aspects of recov- been taught to follow a set of rules that at ing, and our most favorite practice, partic- workshops, meals, and housing for two ery. For more information regarding first glance seem to be outdated relics of ipation in the Lord’s Supper. In a country nights, is $110 per individual. Ophelia’s Place, visit their website at Wesley’s 18th century England. in which food is plentiful for most of us, Ames was chosen as Favorite Acoustic www.opheliasplace.org. However, these guidelines for daily liv- both of these practices relate to consuming Rock Artist of the Year at the 2005 KCCM ing are experiencing new life through (or not consuming) food. But on a deeper Bishop Reuben Job’s Three Simple Rules. level, these practices get at the heart of Bishop Job introduces the three rules in spiritual disciplines. We like those prac- language more contemporary than tices in which we receive. We do not like Wesley’s: do no harm, do good, and stay those practices that cost us something, in love with God. These guidelines will be whether the cost is money, food, or other the focus of Annual Conference June 4-7 comforts and conveniences. This is human in Peoria, as they will be in several other nature. But the spiritual disciplines call us Annual Conference sessions throughout to transcend our human nature in order to the United States. Those not attending be formed to receive God’s grace and the Annual Conference may learn more about freedom to resist those aspects of our the General Rules by reading Bishop Job’s human nature that go against God’s plan book or by referring to the list of rules for creation. found in ¶ 103 of The Book of Discipline To learn more about spiritual disci- (2004). plines, consider a study of Opening Tithing is another “least favorite” prac- Ourselves to Grace, the DVD made avail- tice. Often, when church leadership starts able to every church at Annual Conference talking about tithing (giving at least 10% in 2006. Churches may contact the New of our gross income to the church), people Streams Team at 217-529-2473 or Beth complain that the church is “always asking Fender, Coordinator of New Streams, at for money.” But tithing is not about the [email protected], for further information church’s financial need; instead, it is about and support.

continue to move ahead in helping to Photo courtesy of Jemimah Browne Thanks rebuild our communities. A group of mothers and their children from the Wealah District received bed nets as part Continued from page 11 I am grateful for Bishop Christopher’s of a distribution of more than $52,000 from IGRC that was collected in 2007 from IGRC congregations and individuals throughout leadership in requesting a special churches. The first distribution and training on how to use the insecticide-treated nets the Illinois Great Rivers Conference. UMCOR grant on behalf of Iroquois and to combat malaria took place at the John Wesley School, northeast of Monrovia. Your continuing support and concern are Livingston Counties and the Conference- Additional distributions are happening throughout the country through the health min- uplifting and serve to encourage us as we See Thanks on page 9 … istry of the Liberia Annual Conference. June 2008 Illinois Great Rivers Conference — The Current Page 11 Christian Conversation Letter from Afghanistan We should all be in agreement it is not Christ like to reject our LGBT friends any Many parts, one body Editor, The Current: more than we should reject our friends St. Paul carried in his head throughout his ministry a vision of Greetings from the Task Force Medical who are gamblers, gossips or alcoholics. Christian community. His vision outlined in I Corinthians 12 is a Hospital, Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan. Rather we are to help them to find their vision of the one, one, one body born of the one, one Spirit. (In I have landed and am at work. I work way to repentance and lead by example. verse 12 he uses the word “one” as many times as I have here to anywhere from 12 to 20 hours a day, Christ calls us to be His witness, how make his point.) In Colossians he describes the behavior of this depending on the wounded and traumas would you receive a minister who goes to one church body: “Speaking the truth in love, we must grow up which come through the hospital. the casino every Friday night? The Bible is in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom We not only take care of Coalition clear that certain standards must be upheld the whole body, joined and knitted together by every ligament Forces, but we also provide aid for local for the church to be legitimate. Therefore, with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, pro- nationals and the Afghanistan National in order to be the body of Christ we must motes the body’s growth in building itself up in love.” Police and Army. We also provide human- live the Word to the best of our ability. Bishop Christopher Paul carefully describes the church body as consisting not of itarian assistance to persons who are dis- There is a great difference between lov- one member, or part, but of many. At the same time he recognizes charged from the hospital; and many of ing acceptance and positions of leadership that sometimes some of the members forget their membership in the whole body and try our chaplains at Forward Operating Bases in the church. Why is it so easy for us, in to go it alone. (FOB’s) take items to the local villages to the name of love and grace, to over look On the one hand, Paul describes parts of the body that feel inferior to other parts and provide for them. John the Baptist’s one message – that of therefore feel as if they don’t belong. The foot says, “Because I am not a hand, I do not I am by no means soliciting help (as that repentance? Further, Paul is very clear in belong to the body.” These are the parts that take a victim stance. “Poor me. I am not would be against the Uniformed Code of what the leadership of the church should as important as another part. Furthermore, the body doesn’t pay attention to me. I am Military Justice). But should anyone ask look like. Much of Paul’s writing is about wasting away, and the body doesn’t seem to care.” I hear some congregation parts of you what they could do to help out my how to be a church of our Lord and Savior our IGRC body singing this song, a song of lament sung by those feeling deflated if not ministry, they could visit www.operation- and how we are to conduct ourselves and inferior. care.net to learn more about the ministry. police the body of Christ so that we might On the other hand, Paul describes parts of the body that act as if they are independ- Donations could be sent directly to me be a good witness. Living a lifestyle that is ent, self-sufficient, perhaps thinking themselves to be superior to the other parts. “The at my address. We have two connexes not pleasing to God would not qualify as eye says to the hand, I have no need of you. The head says to the feet, “I have no need filled with supplies for children, women being a good witness. of you.” These are the parts that take a stance of entitlement. “Look at the impact we and men which we disburse with the help Mr. Webster throws stones at those of us are having. Our own neighborhood is booming with possibility. If the body would just of Operation Care. But Operation Care has who feel the Bible is clear. If you believe leave us alone to be the “arm” that we are by reducing its requirements of us, we could a wonderful itemization of items which that those who profess and live an LGBT really increase our ministry to those in our community. After all, our community is could be sent. lifestyle do not meet the qualifications laid where it’s happening.” I hear some congregation parts of our IGRC body singing this For the troops, we give away anything out by Paul’s writings to serve as leaders in song, a song of praise sung by those feeling inflated if not superior. that comes our way — cookies (we have our denomination then you are less than a Being the one body Paul envisions is hard work. It calls those feeling victimized to LOTS of Girl Scout Cookies here); can- good Christian and are in need of being stand up, look out, breathe deeply, and claim the possibility under their noses, recogniz- dies (Chocolate is better than cigarettes in taken to the woodshed. In doing so, ing there is a body larger than themselves of which they are an important part, a body prison); and toiletries. The Chapel Office Webster accuses us of advocating “spiritu- that is encouraging and equipping and connecting them in ways that will lead to their is known as the place to share such things; al violence, the misuse of religious author- new life. It calls those feeling entitled to remember they too are important members of we are called the Only Wal-Mart in ity to demean and diminish LGBT a body that is larger than themselves, that they are creature, not Creator, and that they Afghanistan. Christians.” have something to learn from all parts of the body, even the parts they perceive to be Ch., Capt., Howard S. Bell, USAFR While it might be convenient to selec- weak, as all parts work together for the common good. Both those feeling inferior and Chaplain, Task Force Medical Hospital tively accept those scriptures that make us those feeling superior are in need of re-connection. APO AE 09354 all warm and fuzzy inside, it is deadly to All parts need the body even when they do not realize it. Some parts need it for what the Bagram AF, Afghanistan believe that is all there is. I will not be body can give to them. Some need it for what they can give to the body. Only together do scared into forsaking the Word of God so we grow into the head, Christ, and together we become Christ in the world for others. Dialogue needs to end with some people can feel better about there To those of you who are members of the annual conference, I invite you when you scripture unhealthy lifestyle choices. Further, I will get to Peoria, to watch for the songs of the victims and the songs of the entitled. I invite not legitimize behavior for them by saying you, speaking the truth in love, to reach out to them by encouraging them to become a Editor, The Current their lifestyle is acceptable and pleasing to part of the body that is larger than themselves, the body which offers them the possibil- In reading Steven Webster’s God when I know that is not true. God has ity of the new life in God we know in Christian community. In Christian community we Commentary, Avoiding sexuality is not a plan for those who are willing accom- make decisions not on the basis of what we consider best for our own part but rather on true peace (May 2008), I would like to join plices of Satan’s works. But, it is our the basis of what’s best for the whole body, the common good. in among those who say we need to end objective to make sure as many goats as Living in the context of the whole, we all will discover new dimensions of our souls. this dialogue. However, we need to end it possible become sheep. And as a result, “we will grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, on the side of the scripture. While Mr. So yes, we open our arms and doors to from whom the whole body, joined and knitted together by every ligament with which Webster laments on the lack of acceptance the LGBT community and welcome them it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building of the church to embrace the lesbian, gay, into fellowship as we lead them to a path of itself up in love.” bisexual and transgender (LGBT) mem- repentance. I say. “Welcome!” to the — Bishop Sharon A. Brown Christopher bers of society into church leadership, he LGBT friends among us. “Please join us does not come forth with an argument that here and open your heart to the transform- never repay you but can only pass on love is supported by scripture. ing power of our God the Father, His Son Thanks and compassion for others in need. Instead, he tries to misdirect our atten- Jesus Christ and His Holy Spirit.” Continued from page 12 Gratefully tion away from the main issue by invoking However, we must always be aware that quickly. Quite a bit of structural damage Phil Icenogle, Pontiac First UMC Rev. Martin Luther King’s experience to there is a distinction between Jesus’ mes- remained to be done, the kind of work shame us into acceptance of a lifestyle we sage of love and acceptance and Paul’s what requires professionals. Our Long Dear Members of IGRC: all know is not pleasing to God. To make message of serving God in a way that Term Recovery Team is working with The On behalf of the 560 + families who the comparison that discrimination in the pleases God. I am reminded of Paul’s writ- Christian Reformed World Relief were directly impacted by the church leadership toward LGBT is of the ing, “the time will come when men will not Committee to assess further need helping January/February floods in Watseka and same ilk as racial discrimination is ludi- put up with sound doctrine.” (2 Timothy to get people’s lives back to normal. Iroquois County, I express our deep grati- crous. God’s word does not say that having 4:3 NIV) I believe this is such a time and Thanks again to everyone for express- tude and appreciation for the generous black skin is sinful, it does say that sexual this is such an issue. ing the love of God for the people of our response we have received from many immorality is sinful however. Dave Calhoun, Tremont, IL area when the need was great. We can See Thanks on page 10 … Page 12 Illinois Great Rivers Conference — The Current June 2008 Disaster Assistance UMCOR’s response in China A United Methodist-supported relief and another 29,328 missing. team has been assessing the needs of The estimate of those left homeless by earthquake survivors in several Chinese the quake is a staggering 5 million. villages and distributing emergency sup- The United Methodist Committee on plies. On May 21, the Amity Foundation Relief is supporting the relief efforts of the team distributed 6.8 tons of oil and 1,700 Amity Foundation, a voluntary Chinese quilts in the villages of Penghua and Christian organization and longtime part- Wolong. ner of the United Methodist Board of According to a report from She Global Ministries, UMCOR’s parent Hongyu, Amity’s overseas liaison, other agency. Amity and UMCOR are both part materials such as waterproof cloths and of Action by Churches Together rice were being purchased. Ten days after International. UMCOR is sending $50,000 a massive earthquake struck China’s to Amity through the ACT International Sichuan Province on May 12, the death partnership, according to the Rev. Sam toll stood at 51,151, according to the Dixon, UMCOR’s chief executive. Chinese government, with 288,431 injured Disaster training workshops held By Judy Doyle presented material for Spiritual, Disaster Response Coordinator Emotional Care during and after disasters. Still recovering from the floods that hit

Disaster training workshops were held Watseka, the Rev. Paul Copeland and the UMNS Yaomeng. A photo by Yue April 11-12 at Chatham UMC. The work- First United Methodist Church of Survivors of an earthquake that struck the Sichuan Province of China on May 12 are shops were hosted by the conference dis- Watseka hosted Rick Hill, UMCOR con- afraid to return to their homes in Chengdu due to continuing aftershocks. aster response team. sultant for another training event. Hill led Consultants with the United Methodist 16 people in the proper procedures of Missionary recounts aftermath in Committee on Relief (UMCOR) were Case Management. busy in the Illinois Great Rivers Both Watseka in Iroquois County and Chengdu Conference in April. Fifteen people Pontiac in Livingston County experience CHENGDU, China (UMNS) - University, and her dog, Little Flower, attended sessions on Early Response two floods last January. Initially FEMA Aftershocks of the May 12 earthquake in resumed their normal walking route Training. Participants learned the ele- deny the state’s request for a federal dis- China continue to make people there around the campus. An earthquake infor- ments of an early response team. aster declaration. After an appeal, FEMA uneasy, according to a United Methodist mation center had been erected at the UMCOR consultant Barbara Tripp pro- granted the declaration. Bishop Sharon missionary living in Chengdu. head administration building. vided the expertise. Brown Christopher requested and Marshall native Connie Wieck, a mis- “Throughout the campus, students had Tripp became involved in Disaster received a $10,000 grant from UMCOR. sionary with the United Methodist Board set up their bedding outside, either on the Response during the 1993 floods. Her Revs. Paul Copeland and Phil Icenogle of Global Ministries, has recounted a few grass or under classroom building over- involvement increased with the land fall are providing care to the people affected of her experiences on her blog at passes that would protect them from the of Hurricane Floyd. Tripp was the by the floods. http://chinawieck.spaces.live.com/. sun and rain,” she wrote. “Well-tended Executive Director of MERCI (Marion Following the 5.2 magnitude earth- Wieck, who teaches English in China lawns that once were forbidden territory Edwards Recovery Center Initiatives). quake in southern Illinois, conference through the Amity Foundation, is on sab- to students now became speckled with An additional fourteen people attended congregations and families are reminded batical doing language study in Chengdu. squatters. Hundreds of makeshift bed- the workshop lead by the Rev. Mary that disasters can and do occur anywhere On May 14, the aftershocks brought sheet tents, created by ropes attached to Hughes Gaudreau of Oklahoma. and at any time. The Conference Disaster people back to the streets. Wieck, who trees, were found in the woodsy areas. Gaudreau is an ordained clergy in the Response Team urges families and con- lives in an off-campus apartment across “Around the sports stadium, huge plas- Oklahoma Conference. As a licensed pro- gregations to plan for a disaster, but pray from the West Gate of Sichuan See Missionary on page 4 … fessional counselor and UMCOR’s that the plan never needs to be imple- National Care Team instructor, Gaudreau mented. Letters of thanks Judy Doyle and Ron Monroe, Representatives of the Conference disas- (Editor’s note: Two special offerings fol- ter team, were on site helping out almost How to donate lowing floods in the Watseka-Pontiac immediately. Mid-West Mission area in January and February and flood- The following numbers have been Distribution Center had flood buckets in ing in southern Illinois in March has gen- assigned for disasters by the Illinois Pontiac before any other help arrived. erated $50,317 to date. The United Great Rivers Conference and the United We express our thanks to Bishop Methodist Committee on Relief provided Methodist Committee on Relief: Christopher for requesting financial sup- each area with a $10,000 grant at the Watseka-Pontiac floods and port from UMCOR as well. request of Bishop Sharon A. Brown Southern Illinois floods: Donate to Fund Many in our community were so Christopher). 6800 – Conference Disaster Relief and Special 3019674, Myamar emergency. impressed with how well our United indicate “Watseka-Pontiac flood” or These contributions can be sent through Methodist Connectional System func- “Southern Illinois flood” the conference for proper crediting for Dear Members of IGRC: tions and how compassionate our Storms throughout the mid- your church or directly to UMCOR. The residents of Livingston County Conference has been in assisting. Our Southern state region: Contribute to Online donations can also be made at and Pontiac in particular who were deep appreciation goes to the many UMCOR’s Domestic Disaster Response, www.umcor.org adversely affected by the January flood United Methodists who came to Pontiac Advance Special 901670. These contri- China Earthquake Relief: Contribute are indeed very grateful for the generous or called to volunteer services for the butions can be sent through the confer- to UMCOR’s Advance Special 982450. response by the churches and individuals clean-up effort. ence for proper crediting for your church These contributions can be sent through of the Illinois Great Rivers Conference. It was quite moving to watch FEMA, or directly to UMCOR. Online donations the conference for proper crediting for Your support has helped tremendously in The Red Cross and other agencies work- can also be made at www.umcor.org your church or directly to UMCOR. the rebuilding process for the nearly 800 ing together to help our people. The gen- Cyclone Nargis relief in Myanmar: Online donations can also be made at families who were displaced or sustained eral clean-up was completed rather Contribute to UMCOR’s Advance www.umcor.org significant property damage. See Thanks on page 11 …