URRE N

C T

E

H T

Scholar and IGRC JANUARY 2017 • VOL. 21 NO. 7 Elder Craig Hill confronts status, ambition and the way of Jesus in new book

PAGES 6-7 >> INSIDE THIS ISSUE <<

1

13

Photos by Paul Black The Baby Fold and United Methodist Children's HOme both hosted Festival of Trees to support their ministries. INSIDE The Current (USPS 014-964) is published Send materials to: THIS ISSUE monthly by the Illinois Great Rivers P.O. Box 19207, Springfield, IL 62794-9207 Conference of The UMC, 5900 South or tel. 217.529.2040 or fax 217.529.4155 News from the Episcopal Office ���� 1 Second Street, Springfield, IL 62711 [email protected], website www.igrc.org INSIDE THIS ISSUE Announcements & Events ����������� 2 An individual subscription is $15 per year. Periodical postage paid at Peoria, IL, and Photos courtesy of Bishop Frank Beard The opinions expressed in viewpoints are additional mailing offices. Christian Conversations �������������� 3 those of the writers and do not necessarily POSTMASTER: Please send address reflect the views of The Current, The IGRC, Local Church News ������������������4-5 changes to or The UMC. The Current, Illinois Great Rivers Featured Story ��������������������������6-7 Communications Team leader: Paul E. Conference, National / Global News �����������9-10 Black Team members: Kim Halusan and P.O. Box 19207, Springfield, IL 62794-9207 Michele Willson Conference News �����������������11-13

SELF-CARE

APRIL 21-22 SPONSORED PCC FRIDAY APRILRETREAT 21 THE SHRINE OF OUR LADY 2-3pm Registration 3-4pm Do we Encourage or Discourage Self-Care as a Culture? - Shauna Summers OF THE SNOWS 4-5pm Our Healthiest Selves with Nutrition & Exercise - Dr. Jerry Felts 5-6:30pm Dinner provided on site BELLEVILLE, ILLINOIS 6:30-8pm Sacred Spaces: An experiential faith exploration - Deborah Pollex Massage available * Childcare available at St Matthew’s UMC with advance registration and $10 registration fee per family from 2-8:30pm Friday and 7am-5pm Saturday * SATURDAY APRIL 22 7am-4:30pm Massage available RETREAT LOCATION: 7-9:00am Breakfast provided on site National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows Coffee - Coloring - Connection 442 S. DeMazenod Dr, Belleville, IL 62223 (Located on IL State Highway 15 east) All Saturday workshop times have TWO options to choose from: 9:30-11am A) Wake Up to Your Life! - Vicki Kamhi, LCPC B) Chair Yoga and Healthy Living - Angie “Eunjoo” Lee 11am-12:30pm Lunch On Your Own; restaurant onsite, many restaurants offsite, and location is a few minutes from St. Louis 1-2:30pm A) Marriage Self-Care - Curt Keller; DMin, LMFT B) Finding Your Treasures - Vicki Kamhi, LCPC 2:30-3pm Snack provided 3-4:30pm A) “What My Spouse Doesn’t Tell Me” Benefits Education for Clergy Spouses - Rick Van Giesen B) Understanding Stress and the Management of Chronic Stress - Bob Mitchell

The Current JANUARY 2017 >> NEWS FROM THE EPISCOPAL OFFICE << From The NEWS Episcopal Office

Jesus came to seek NEWS FROM THE EPISCOPAL OFFICE and save the lost Have you ever been lost? I say, “What do you think I’ve been do- Emily gave me a wonderful mean, really lost? ing for the last half an hour?” Afraid gift through her simple prayer. Ask I yelled for my 9-year-old to give myself away, I kept silent and the Lord for help, because that is why daughter to “hurry up” so we could listened to her simple prayer. “Dear he came. He came to save us and to go do some catching. I had visions of Jesus, help my daddy because he is provide a way to reach our eternal walleyes running through my head. I lost. Amen.” destination. Jesus came bringing light, was in such a hurry that I left the map God answered Emily’s prayer hope, peace and joy. of the lake behind. in a miraculous way. Ask me about it Merry Christmas and a blessed Bishop Frank Beard That was my first mistake. sometime and I’ll give you the details. New Year to each of you. As you The second mistake was not paying Being rescued was a great relief, and rejoice in Christ our Savior, remem- attention to the shoreline as I headed a cause for both inward and outward ber to express appreciation for God’s toward a distant rocky point that I had rejoicing. amazing grace. Join with the IGRC Appointments spotted as the float plane was land- Advent is a time for remember- family is saying, because of God’s gift In consultation with the Cabinet of the Illinois Great Rivers ing. The third mistake was leaving ing the gift of the child that came to to the world “I once was lost, but now Conference, Bishop Frank J. Beard appoints and assigns the that spot in search of more fish. I will save us. It is a time for preparing our I am found!” always choose quantity over quality hearts to celebrate that Emmanuel is following: God Bless when it comes to fishing. Folks always still with us. It is a time of rejoicing Bishop Beard Paul Jacob to Fountain UMC, Cache River District, ¼ time, want to know how many you caught because his light still overcomes and effective Jan. 1, 2017. Jacob is a certified lay minister and will before they ask about the size. vanquishes all darkness. It is a time also continuing serving Crab Orchard UMC. As we went from point to to surrender to the one that came to Bishop Beard’s point and cove to cove catching fish, “seek and to save the lost.” Timothy Woodard to DuQuoin First UMC, Cache River District, I somehow got turned around. If Have you ever been lost? Of Schedule effective Jan. 1, 2017. you have ever been in the Canadian course, you have been. Everyone, at December 18, 2016 wilderness you will know that it is all some point, has been lost. The Bible Normal First UMC - Vermilion River District rocky points and pine trees. There are says, “We all, like sheep, have gone 9:30 a.m. Worship Service Deaths no marker poles, no signs, no buoys, astray.” January 8, 2017 Earline J. Michels, 84, widow of the nothing to distinguish one cove from The reason that God sent Em- Bloomington Wesley UMC - Vermilion River District Rev. Francis "Mike" Michels, died Nov. another. I was lost! manuel into the world to dwell among 9 and 11:15 a.m. Worship Services 28 in Litchfield. One of the challenges of being us is because we all need a guide to January 13, 2017 "Mike" died about seven weeks earlier, a guy is that we learn early not to provide direction. Sad to say, but some admit that we are lost. My daughter folks do not believe that they are lost Martin Luther King, Jr. service on Oct. 11. Fairview Heights Christ UMC - Mississippi River District asked me, “Daddy, are we lost?” I or that others are spiritually lost. As Together, they served local churches in the former Southern stammered and did the usual guy a result, we have not been motivated January 16, 2017 Illinois Conference, retiring from Litchfield St. Timothy in song and dance about seeing new with a sense of urgency in sharing the Springfield Kumler UMC – Sangamon River District 1995. areas and wanting her to explore new “good news” of the Gospel. UM Clergy of Sangamon River District 4 p.m. - Service honoring Martin Luther King, Jr. Condolences may be sent to a daughter, Linda Noland, 82 territory. Emily did not buy it. It is The Christmas season is a time Santa Anita Dr, Maryville, IL 62062-1929. hard to con a kid that had learned my for celebrating and rejoicing because January 22, 2017 evasive behavior while sitting in the light has come into our dark world. Peoria First UMC - Illinois River District Earline was also the grandmother of IGRC pastor Rev. back seat of the car. The good news is that the light has 8:30 and 11 a.m. Worship Services Leanne Noland, 308 E Main St., Clinton, IL 61727-1709. Emily said, “Daddy I’m going been given to help show us the way February 5, 2017 to pray to Jesus for help.” I wanted to out of our state of lost-ness. Retired local pastor Jon Raymond Sumner UMC - Kaskaskia River District Westfall, 78, died Nov. 12 in Evans- 9 a.m. - Worship Service ville, Ind. Rev. Westfall served 24 years as an active pastor in the former Southern Illinois and later, Illinois Great Rivers Conference, retiring in 2011 from McHenry. He then served part-time in retirement as Enfield-Wesley Chapel for three years. Condolences may be sent to his wife, Marilyn Westfall, 301 10th St., Carmi, IL 62821-2411.

Vaudra M. Rushing, 92, a retired diaconal minister, died Nov. 12 in Springfield. Vaudra served in various capacities of The United Methodist Church, including 15 years as a counselor of the former Central Illinois Conference Council on Ministries. She retired in 1994 from Champaign First UMC, where she served as coordinator of older adult and volunteer ministries. She was an elected delegate to the 1980 North Central Jurisdictional Conference and the 1984 and 1988 General Conferences of The United Methodist Church. Ms. Rushing was elected Secretary of the Board of Directors of the Na- Photos courtesy of Cache River District office tional Christian Educators Fellowship in Nashville, Tenn., and (LEFT) Bishop Frank J. Beard visited the Cache River District recently, visiting the Bald Knob Cross near Alto Pass. (RIGHT) Jesus es el Senor UMC in Cobden and taught in several conference Schools of Christian Mission in the Hispanic Ministries’ Joe’s Mall. four different jurisdictions of The United Methodist Church.

The Current JANUARY 2017 1 >> ANNOUNCEMENTS & EVENTS << • What does it mean to be a member of a Online registration is now open at: www.igrc. Renovate Youth church? org/fiveday2017 • What are YOUR responsibilities? Conference The Academy is a program of Upper Room • What expectations come with confirmation? Ministries, providing an opportunity for EAST MOLINE – Renovate Youth Conference Material from Credo will give an opportunity clergy and laity to tune their hearts toward is a two-day discipleship event for students for your students to grow as they learn. God through a daily rhythm of prayer, in 6th - 12th grades hosted in East Moline worship, learning and reflection. Each day in- Feb. 10-11. Early Registration cost is $35 for For more information, visit: www.igrc.org/ students and $20 for adults. confirmation cludes teachings by gifted spiritual leaders to deepen our walk with God, periods of silence, Read more and register online by visiting: Cunningham Mission Day morning and evening prayer, Eucharist, and http://harvestministryteams.com/event/ an opportunity to share with and encourage renovate-youth-revival/ set for March 11 one another. URBANA – Middle school and high school Registration through March 6 is $675 which Fire-up Conference youth groups are invited to join Cunningham includes tuition, room and board plus all TROY – Crystal Kirgiss will be the speaker Children’s Home for its annual Mission Day supplies for the week. After March 6, the for the 2017 Fire-Up Senior High Conference March 11, a first-hand look at the mission and cost rises to $700 through April 3. Rooms are hosted at Troy UMC Feb. 24-26. programs offered at Cunningham. single occupancy with private baths. A $100 Kirgiss serves as adjunct faculty at Purdue Register at www.cunninghamhome.org/giv- non-refundable deposit is required at the University where she teaches English and ing/events/mission-day by Feb. 28. time of registration. researches the history of adolescence. For For more information, contact Bernice Continuing education credit is available for 25 years, she has worked with students in Dallas at (217) 337-9058 or bdallas@ participants who commit to full-time partici- church, parachurch, educational, and com- cunninghamhome.org. pation. munity settings. She is the author of many Site Pastor books for adults and students, most recently Youth will learn: Ross to lead Wesley In Search of Adolescence: A New Look At an De Soto UMC is searching for a site pastor to • What happens daily to help Heritage Tour in July 2017 Old Idea which presents a broad historical assist in providing leadership for all aspects of minis- the vulnerable and hurting survey of youth throughout the centuries. youth that Cunningham serves SPRINGFIELD – In 2015, Dr. Roger Ross, She regularly speaks to youth workers, try including Worship, Administration and Outreach. directing pastor of Springfield First UMC, had parents, students, and congregations on a ANNOUNCEMENTS & EVENTS For more information visit this link http://www. • The importance of faith for the joy of tracing the life and times of Meth- healing variety of topics. She lives in Indiana with her igrc.org/classifiedsdetail/site-pastor-6924223 odism's founder, John Wesley. In July 2017, he husband Mark, a veteran youth worker. • The involvement of United is planning a return visit. The weekend consists of worship, small Methodists in Cunningham’s Through Educational Opportunities Tours, mission groups, seminars, meals, recreation and com- Ross will lead a group as they journey munity. Deaf, Hard of Hearing How to put prayers, presence, gifts, and through England and discover the roots of service into action the early Church and the history-changing Registration is now open and for more grant funds available ministry of John Wesley. information, visit www.fire-up.org or call 618-667-6241. SPRINGFIELD – Do you have someone in Extension School offerings Visit London, Oxford, the ancient Roman your church who is interested in taking for April-May 2017 cities of York and Bath, the Old Rectory in Light Kids Conference in American Sign Language classes to provide Epworth where John Wesley grew up, and ASL interpretation in churches? OR does SPRINGFIELD -- Feb. 10 is the deadline to reg- three locations ister for the April-May classes. These classes much more. This nine-day guided tour will your church have an idea for ministry with leave from either St. Louis or Chicago on July TROY – Harvest Ministry Teams will host Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or Late Deafened will meet April 7-8 and May 5-6. The classes offered in this term are: 11, and return on July 19. three Light Kids Conferences for children in people that needs a little boost getting off first through fifth grade and their ministry Cost is $3,896 which includes international the ground? • COS 123: Formation and Discipleship leaders. • COS 223: Worship and Sacraments airfare, first class hotels, daily buffet breakfast Then the IGRC Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing and dinner, entrance fees, professional tour The conference will be at Washington Cross- Ministry would like to help you out! The Read more and register online at: https:// guides, and deluxe motorcoaches. roads UMC on March 4; Troy UMC on March committee now has a form and procedure for igrc-reg.brtapp.com/COS_April2017 25 and Marion Aldersgate on April 1. requesting grant monies for just these types View a brochure or register online at: of situations. Five-Day Academy for http://www.eo.travelwithus.com/tours/ The one-day event includes music, Bible wesley-heritage-tour-2017-with-rev-roger- Buzz, MERGE Recreation, entertainment, For more information or to request an Spiritual Formation slated ross#eotours snacks, lunch and worship times centered application, please contact: Bunny Wolfe CARLINVILLE – The 2017 Five-Day Academy around the theme RESCUED! ([email protected]), Rev. Jean Hembrough - Register early and save! If registered by for Spiritual Formation will be April 23-28 at Jan. 11, 2017, save $25 More information can be found by visiting: Committee Co-Chair (jeanh@jaxcentenary. Lake Williamson Christian Center in Carlinville. org), or Carrie Grieme - Committee Co-Chair www.kidsconference.org ([email protected]). Confirmation retreats at East Bay, Little Grassy Retired clergy asked to pray for active clergy during 12 days of Christmas camps BY BOBBI BLACKARD our younger and newer clergy are facing. Here is a schedule for our conference and SPRINGFIELD – Many years ago, I was a Some of the problems are not new and districts to follow. We invite all of the IGRC SPRINGFIELD – Confirmation retreats for page at Annual Conference and noticed have been faced by generations of clergy. retired clergy to pray for the active clergy middle school and junior high students from a scene that became etched into my But, there are a lot of problems facing each of the 12 days. As far as is possible, sixth to eighth grades are being offered at memory. As I was going about my job, I today’s active clergy that are very new and please pray for the active clergy by name. East Bay and Little Grassy camps in February. overheard a young pastor talking with two quite different. Dec. 25 Conference-wide prayer Retreats are designed to complement, not more senior pastors about a problem he So, last month, I led a discussion about Dec. 26 Cache River District replace the confirmation classes at the local was having at his church. The young man these types of problems with the Mattoon- Dec. 27 Embarras River District church. seemed very upset about this problem Charleston PASBF retired clergy lunch Dec. 28 Illinois River District Register early for your first choice of camp. and asked the other two pastors what he group. They decided that they would like Dec. 29 Iroquois River District Retreats will start at 7 p.m. Friday and end should be doing to make corrections. to help the active clergy by praying for Dec. 30 Kaskaskia River District after worship by 11 a.m. Sunday. One of the two senior pastors said that them. Prayer is one activity retired clergy Dec. 31 LaMoine River District Cost for the retreat is $100 per person for nothing could be accomplished until and spouses can do and do well. Jan. 1 Mississippi River District two nights. One adult must attend with each they did something very easy and very This discussion group went on to say that, Jan. 2 Sangamon River District group of five or fewer youth. important in the life of the church. When perhaps, all of the retired clergy and spous- Jan. 3 Spoon River District I looked over at the three men, I was es in the IGRC could participate in this Jan. 4 Vermilion River District The East Bay retreat will be taught by Keith Jan. 5 Conference-wide prayer Michaels Feb. 10-12, and the Little Grassy surprised to see that the young man had time of prayer so that every active clergy retreat will be led by Ed Hoke and Christine his head down and the two senior pastors would know that they are being lifted up. Those of us at PASBF would like every ac- Cunningham Feb. 24-26. had put their hands on him and were pray- We have chosen to use the Twelve Days of tive clergy in our annual conference and ing. After that prayer, they went over to Christmas as our baseline for our time of other conferences know that they are be- Confirmands will be discussing such ques- some comfortable seats and began to talk commitment to pray. No one needs to sign ing raised up in prayer for the whole period tions as: through the young man’s problem. up, but we would like to have people talk of the celebration of the twelve days and Over the past few months, I have been among themselves to make sure we are feel as if they each are receiving that hand hearing and reading about problems that covering each of those days. of prayer on their shoulder during this time.

2 The Current JANUARY 2017 >> CHRISTIAN CONVERSATIONS << A response to ‘Having the Talk’ (Editor’s note: The following column is in response to an opinion column, Time to have ‘The Talk,’ which was published in the November issue of The Current by Rev. Chris Ritter, pastor of Geneseo First UMC. The Current is committed to being a forum for Christian conversation and providing differing viewpoints on issues within The United Methodist Church.) BY JULIE SMITH decreased overall by 3.5 percent, meaning there were restrictive language has been proposed and passed As an elder in The United 291,855 fewer members in 2004 compared to 1999. concerning human sexuality and the role and authority Methodist Church appointed to serve In 2005, membership figures suggested a continued of the clergy. Is this centrist action? What has been a local church I do not believe it is my decline, dipping just below 8 million members. happening to our membership? Did the decline stop responsibility to “shield” the members (Changes in Church and Clergy Membership The once all the restrictive language was passed and Clergy CHRISTIAN CONVERSATIONS and friends of Bradley Wesley UMC United Methodist Church 2000 – 2005, Prepared by began to be charged, tried, and stripped of their God- from the difficulties of life, including Michelle Fugate, PhD., Director of Research and Data given call to ordination? the difficulties facing The United Methodist Church. Management General Board of Higher Education and I would suggest that the answer to the above If God does not, then why, in my hubris should I? Ministry, The United Methodist Church, accessed questions is No. Therefore, unlike my colleague, Rev. Christ Ritter, I Nov. 10, 2016). On the same page of The Current as Rev. Ritter’s have been talking with the people I serve for some time about the issues that could possibly lead to the schism of our beloved church. What I have not done, and Since 1972 various statements have been inserted into The Book regret, is being open as to where I stand on the issue of Discipline and our Social Principles that have become more and of schism and the causes for the possibility of schism within our Church. more extreme and non-centrist on the issue of human sexuality. I find it extremely helpful to read opinions and theology by others, including Bishop Sprague, or to try and understand the viewpoint of Rev. Amy DeLong, or Our membership continues to decline despite the article was an Open Letter from Philip Amerson, the viewpoint and feelings of many men and women in fact since 1972 various statements have been inserted former Dean of Garrett-Evangelical Theological my congregation and the world who find the work of into The Book of Discipline and our Social Principles that Seminary, to friends in the Wesleyan Covenant the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice to be have become more and more extreme and non-centrist Association of which Rev. Ritter is a founding member. important. on the issue of human sexuality. Could it possibly be One of the questions was this: I sometimes find it extremely frustrating and that our membership has been in decline because of If Wesleyan, what of John Wesley’s concern about depressing to read opinions and theology of others the restrictive language? schism and his clear guidance to learn from others who don’t seem willing to allow me to have my own In 1988 the General Conference commissioned a who differ as expressed in A Plain Account of Christian opinions and theology and still be an elder in The study asking for a way forward through the muck and Perfection? United Methodist Church. The vows of ordination do mire of political movements within the Church. In In Wesley’s sermon, A Plain Account of Christian not trump the vows of baptism. I have honored the requesting this study the General Conference stated: Perfection, he states in Question 37: “Beware of schism ordination vows even though many of the provisions “the interpretation of homosexuality has proved to or causing separation within the church of Christ. Such within The Discipline contradicts itself. be particularly troubling to conscientious Christians internal division begins when sisters and brothers in As an elder I ask the people I serve to form an of differing opinion.” (p. 10, The Church Studies Christ, the members of his body, no longer have love individual relationship with Christ first, and then, Homosexuality). “for one another” 1 Corinthians 12:25 (NRSV). This seek to understand the institutional identity of United This is a centrist position. Understanding that is the beginning of all conflict that ultimately leads to Methodism. I ask them to read our history as a conscientious Christians could actually disagree. every outward separation. Beware of everything that denomination and to see that from our very beginnings And it is more reflective of the actual thinking of the contributes to such discord.” we were a diverse group. That from our very beginnings members of The United Methodist Church and their The discord within the body of Christ, known our unity was a love of Jesus the Christ and a belief and delegates to General Conference. A survey of 1996 as United Methodism, was out in the open in 1972. hope in the promise of salvation, given to us through General Conference delegates from the United States When a new paragraph was proposed for the new the life, death and resurrection of Jesus the Christ. revealed that more than half (54 percent) disagreed that Social Principles was proposed which stated that homosexuality is sinful. homosexuals no less than heterosexuals were of sacred worth. An amendment was proposed and accepted As an elder, I ask the people I serve to form an individual which stated: although we do not condone the practice of homosexuality and consider this practice incompatible relationship with Christ first, and then seek to understand the with Christian teaching. It was at this point that the door of schism was opened. And with each General institutional identity of United Methodism. Conference the door became wider and wider. Rev. Ritter suggests that it is only those who oppose Rev. Ritter calls himself a “centrist.” A centrist is During the study time of the Commission different this restrictive language and who perform same sex one who holds moderate political views or policies. I theological consultants were contacted and attention weddings who are causing the split within the church. think it would be fair to say that as a body in whatever was drawn to “diverse streams of tradition present This is not accurate. In 2014, 80 pastors and theologians form we constituted ourselves that a centrist position within The United Methodist Church. Each of them posted a statement on the Good News website calling has held. Where we broke was over the issue of slavery [emphasizing] that different viewpoints on human for an amicable split. This same group of individuals and sides were taken and we became The Methodist sexuality exist among Christians because of differences cited that their differences with the body of Christ, Episcopal Church and The Methodist Episcopal in how the sources and criteria for theological and The United Methodist Church, was not just around Church, South. In April 1939, The Methodist Church ethical reflection are understood and interpreted.” sexual orientation, but also authority of scripture and was formed bringing home members of The Methodist (p. 19, The Church Studies Homosexuality). discipleship. I quote from the site: “‘Talk of a middle Episcopal Church, The Methodist Protestant Church What was the result of the study, commissioned way’ or ‘agreeing to disagree’ is comforting and sounds and The Methodist Church, South. Our membership and paid for by The United Methodist Church? Christ-like. However, such language only denies the was 7.7 million members. In 1968, some would say that Both the Committee’s majority and minority reality we need to admit. Neither side will find ‘agreeing we opened our doors even wider and welcomed into acknowledged that the church has been unable to arrive to disagree’ acceptable.’” (http://goodnews-mag. our family The Evangelical United Brethren Church at a common mind on the subject and that the church org/2014/05/regarding-united-methodisms-future/, and became The United Methodist Church. At that needed to pursue greater knowledge and insight than it accessed, Nov. 10, 2016). time the EUB had approximately 700,000 members. presently had on this subject. Did the Church do that? No. How do they know? They’ve never allowed such After the 1968 merger of The Methodist Church The study and its recommendations were shelved a statement to be passed by the General Conference and The Evangelical United Brethren Church to and have been collecting dust ever since. What has of The United Methodist Church. In addition, this form The United Methodist Church, membership happened to provisions within The Book of Discipline stated belief, belies our history up until 1972, when in the church continued to decline, from about 9.9 and our Social Principles? Have we drawn together to we stopped agreeing to disagree and began to impose million members in 1974 to 8.54 million members 20 try and understand that there are legitimate differences “right doctrine and theology.” years later in 1994 (General Council on Finance and between people of faith within the Body of Christ, On one point Rev. Ritter and I do agree. It is time Administration, April 2006). Between 1999 and 2004, known as The United Methodist Church? No. At to break the luxury of my silence. It is time to break membership in The United Methodist Church again each General Conference since 1992, more and more RESPONSE CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

The Current JANUARY 2017 3 >> LOCAL CHURCH NEWS << Savoy UMC holds ‘reverse offering’ in all, in envelopes containing $5, $10, $20, $50, even a few Benjamin Franklins. Everyone in attendance got an envelope — from small children to senior citizens — with only one bit of instruction from their pastor: Go do some good. Brown says he put it like this: "If Jesus gave this to you with the challenge of 'I want you to build my kingdom and help people become aware of me,' how would you do that?" "It was up to each of us to decide how we best used those funds to help others," says Dawn Rear, a member of the congregation of a little over 200, who turned us on to the story. "I thought this was a very unique way to get all of us to think about how fortunate we are and how important it is to stop and realize what's really important — help- ing others." The stories of acts of kindness are starting to roll in — about the congregation member who was able to help a neighbor in a tight spot, about the

LOCAL CHURCH NEWS woman in line at the grocery store who saw that the customer in front of her didn't have enough Photo by John Dixon, Champaign News-Gazette money to pay for everything, so she reached in Marc Brown, pastor of Savoy United Methodist Church, holds the collection plates at the church. During a recent service, he surprised the congregation with a her purse to help. 'reverse collection,' handing out about $7,000 in envelopes marked 'In God We Trust.' Says Brown: "When we first proposed this (Editor’s note: The Savoy UMC is participating in These, after all, aren't the best of financial times months ago, one of the guys in leadership said: the Journey of 10x10. The reverse offering was an at Savoy United Methodist, which has already 'This is one of the craziest things ever suggested. idea that came as a result of that participation.) had to dip into its modest reserves to stay in the There's no way we can do this.' black. BY JEFF D’ALESSIO "But as we continued to talk and pray the last few Champaign News-Gazette But no one at the church on Old Church Road months, he said: 'There's no way we can't do this. SAVOY – When he first broached the idea of a seems too concerned about the budget these We have to.'" days. Their pastor put their minds on more im- "reverse collection" with a few members of his (Reprinted with permission from the Nov. 18 issue portant matters when he announced on a recent church's leadership team, the Rev. Marc Brown of the Champaign News-Gazette, www.news- Sunday that instead of taking money that morn- got a few funny looks. gazette.com) ing, he would be giving it away — about $7,000

Loaves and Fish Volunteers Iretha Belton, at center, and Robert Righi prepare food during a fish fry Nov. 12 at Peoria First UMC. For the last 22 years, Loaves and Fish have served members of the Peoria community. Beginning as a feeding ministry, it has grown to include a free health clinic, a clothing pantry, a food take home table, worship service and a program for children and youth. (Reprinted with permission of the Peoria Journal-Star, www.pjstar. com)

Photo by Lewis Marien, Peoria Journal-Star

4 The Current JANUARY 2017 >> LOCAL CHURCH NEWS << Pontiac First UMC completes nursery upgrade

BY LUKE SMUCKER throughout the week the nursery will Pontiac Daily Leader see anywhere from 50 to 60 chil- PONTIAC – For a congregation that believes the youth dren. Various groups use the church are its future, the newly-renovated and relocated throughout the week and the church nursery at First United Methodist Church, Pontiac, is averages about 15 children per Sun- a nearly $300,000 step in the right direction. Since day. 1924, when it was built, a long room at the end of the “With the new nursery, we are also hallway in the church’s basement has served as its starting a new Sunday school cur- nursery. However, convenience, age and safety-related riculum,” Diaz said. “So there will be issues brought about the discussion for moving and some Bible lessons being taught in LOCAL CHURCH NEWS renovating the nursery. the nursery, not just playing. It’s a very “We have been talking about this as a board since hands-on curriculum, so they’ll still last August,” Rev. Tom Goodell, directing pastor at the have snack and play time, but we’re church said. “But we did not know how people of our trying to make the experience some- congregation would feel about it. Then, one member what educational, too. This Sunday will spoke up at our board meeting. be the first time we start it.” “She said, ‘When I was a baby, I was in that nursery. I think it’s time for change.’ It was kind of a humorous way of getting people to realize we had to make a big decision.” The big decision came last April in the form of a con- gregational vote, which Goodell was hoping would pass by about 60 percent of the votes. Photos by Luke Smucker, Pontiac Daily Leader “To my surprise, the congregation voted overwhelm- (ABOVE) Elliott Fuqua, 2, Jack Fuqua, 4, and Max Cohlman, 3, enjoy a late ingly for it,” Goodell said. “The final vote was 108-2, in morning snack at the new nursery suite at Pontiac First UMC. favor of the renovations.” (LEFT) Will Diaz, 3, is fascinated with the train set in the new nursery Although the nursery was the biggest change, part of at Pontiac First UMC. The nursery was part of a $300,000 renovation that $300,000 cost includes an additional restroom, recently completed by McCoy Construction. which was added on the top floor, for the convenience of wheelchair-bound individuals as well as improve- providing them a safe place to be. We want children in ments to the safety of the building. The board had a our church, so this was a big step for us.” pretty good idea of how much these additions would The old nursery will now be used as a Sunday school cost because employees with McCoy Construction, classroom. the company that completed the work, are also mem- bers of the church. “Brighter,” “more engaging,” “cleaner” and “safer” are “We’re trying to tell our community that children are some of the words Diaz and Goodell used to describe very important to us,” Goodell said. “I hope that if “With the approval of the congregation, the church’s the new nursery. However, Diaz said the best compli- people don’t have a church, they would consider us in board of trustees paid for the project and the congre- ment about the new nursery is from the children who the future. We have a dedicated staff who work at the gation is paying back the trustees,” Goodell said. “Over enter. nursery regularly. The nursery is used for those events three years, every month that has a fifth Sunday, we’ll “We used to have kids that didn’t want to go to the as well as other things the church sponsors during the do a special offering to pay for the nursery costs. That’s week. So, I’d say it is one of our most used spaces.” a big commitment, but this congregation embraced nursery, now we have kids that don’t want to leave,” that and they’re doing a great job.” she said. “The success of this nursery says to me that (Reprinted with permission from the Nov. 8 issue of the our church is growing together and we are starting Pontiac Daily Leader, www.pontiacdailyleader.com) Ashley Diaz, nursery coordinator at the church, said from the bottom, teaching the children right and Bishop Beard calls for a week of prayer Jan. 22-28

SPRINGFIELD – Bishop Frank J. Beard is of Jan. 22 was strategic in that events inside and asking that the Illinois Great Rivers Conference outside the church have called for people to be set aside the week of Jan. 22-28, 2017, as a Week united. of Prayer for the Way Forward Commission and “The week will be the first week in which a its work. new president will be leading the country fol- The week selected is part of a church-wide lowing a very contentious campaign,” he said. call to prayer in 2017 and 2018 as the Commission “And the week overlaps the Week of Prayer and moves forward its work. Bishops of the church Christian Unity, a worldwide ecumenical focusing have covenanted with one another to pray 15 on unity within the Christian faith.” minutes each day for the Commission. The second Prayer coordinators have been recruited phase is involving each individual annual confer- and will be assisting Bishop Beard during the ence in prayer for a week. week. Additional resources will be provided in the Birmingham Area Bishop Debra Wallace- weeks prior to Jan. 22 to assist congregations and Padgett told a November gathering in Jacksonville, pastors in this endeavor. Photo credit of LaMoine River District office Fla., that the prayer emphasis was two-fold. “We The Upper Room has developed a website Bishop Frank Beard stopped by Jensen Woods Camp during his visit to the LaMoine are praying that God help us to more effectively called UMCprays.org. The website features many River District. The camp is one of two for sale by the Illinois Great Rivers Conference. fulfill the mission of the church. And we are pray- tools and resources to help you to plan for the ing to be one in Christ,” she said. week of prayer and additional information will be Bishop Beard said the selection of the week forthcoming in the next few weeks.

The Current JANUARY 2017 5 >> FEATURE STORY << Hill confronts status, ambition and the way of Jesus in new book

FEATURE STORY FEATURE BY PAUL BLACK

6 The Current JANUARY 2017 >> FEATURE STORY <<

he year 2016 has certainly been busy for New T Testament scholar and IGRC Elder Craig Hill. Craig C. Hill In July, Hill was named Dean of Perkins School of Theology, succeeding the retiring William Lawrence. Education It was during this time that Hill was completing the D.Phil. University of Oxford; M.Div. Garrett-Evan- manuscript for Servant of All: Status, Ambition and the gelical Theological Seminary; B.A. Illinois Wesleyan Way of Jesus (2016, William B. Eerdmans Publishing University Co., 203 pages, available through Cokesbury). And Hill said that much of the material for the book came from Research Interests hard-won lessons in his own life. New Testament; theological pedagogy The irony wasn’t lost on the author. Selected Publications “They say that God has a sense of humor. That might Servant of All: Status, Ambition, and the Way of well be true,” Hill writes in the preface to his latest book. Jesus. (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2016). FEATURE STORY Hill was professor of Duke Divinity School with more In God’s Time: The Bible and the Future (Grand Rap- than a 30-year career in the pulpit and the classroom. ids: Eerdmans Press, 2002). It was from this position that Hill and his wife would retire. Or so they thought. Dr. Craig C. Hill became the 11th dean of Perkins School of Theology on July 1, 2016. A New Testa- In fact, it was through contact with exceptional pastors ment scholar, Dean Hill previously served on the and church professionals, many in mid-life, that gave faculty of Duke Divinity School, where he was birth to the writing of Servant of All. “Like the rest of executive director of the Doctor of Ministry and us, they struggled with the desire for appreciation and Master of Christian Practice programs. He also was acceptance,” Hill said. a research professor of theological pedagogy. It was only a few weeks after completing the final Prior to his tenure at Duke, he held numerous Photos courtesy of Hillsman S. Jackson/SMU chapter that Hill was contacted by an executive search positions over the course of 15 years at Wesley firm, asking him to consider applying for the deanship Ill.; and as associate pastor at Woodside United Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C. They of Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist Methodist Church, Springfield, Ill. included professor of New Testament, executive University in Dallas, Texas. Hill is the author of numerous scholarly articles, director of academic outreach, director of the including the forthcoming book, The Greatest Through prayer and reflection, Hill concluded that the Wesley Ministry Network, co-director of the dual Among You: Reclaiming a New Testament firm’s invitation was a potential call from God which degree program with The American University Perspective on Status and Ambition. His previous was confirmed when Perkins announced that he would and director of the Master of Theological Studies books include In God’s Time: The Bible and the succeed Lawrence. degree program. Future and Hellenists and Hebrews: Reappraising “As you might imagine, that put me in an awkward and In addition, he holds an extensive list of global Division within the Earliest Church. rather humorous position, having just written a book academic appointments including visiting He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion on status and ambition,” Hill said. “And along the way, I professor in Russia and South Korea and served from Illinois Wesleyan University, a Master of made a few explicit references to seminary deans, which as a visiting fellow at the University of Cambridge Divinity from Garrett-Evangelical Theological I left in the book.” and a Henry R. Luce Fellow at Yale Divinity School. Seminary in Evanston, Ill., and a Doctor of “The one concern I have is that readers do not come Hill was appointed as the first non-Anglican Philosophy degree from the University of Oxford away from reading this book with the notion that Chris- chaplain at Christ Church College, University of (Christ Church College). tian faithfulness and worldly advancement walk hand Oxford. Additional pastoral experience includes Dean Hill and his wife, Robin, are the parents of in hand. To the contrary, I believe they are at least as director of Christian Education at First United two adult children: Arthur and Victoria. often at odds and each advancement carries with it new Methodist Church, Meriden, Conn.; as associate temptations to unfaithfulness,” Hill said. “I have come pastor at First United Methodist Church, Peoria, Source: Perkins School of Theology to see this book as written especially for me – and only then, by extension, for other fallible human beings who seek to please God without deceiving themselves.” The need for recognition, Jesus sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, affirmation "Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all." Hill begins his journey with the reader by noting, “Sta- – MARK 9:35 tus is not a gift of the Spirit. Ambition is absent from lists of spiritual fruit. Authority, honor and rank are at best ambiguous scriptural categories.” And yet, all those Christ’s character, teachings and life was due to his ‘toward what are we ambitious and why?’” qualities are present among Christians. complete belief that the Kingdom of God and God’s Perhaps the answer is best left to the discernment of reign was the ultimate reality and the enduring source Hill notes that for many clergy, this need was a motivat- others whom one has allowed to speak truthfully and of meaning. ing factor for entering the ministry, even though it is through open prayer and searching. rarely discussed, unless someone else asks about it. And However, like the first-century church, the 21st century And Hill concludes that the answer to a proper balance then the conversation flows. church falls short in that belief, with Hill noting, “(the is found in Christian community. New Testament) authors confronted the all-too-natural Utilizing the early chapters of Philippians as a starting problems arising from human status seeking, such as “As I read the New Testament, I am struck by the effort point, Hill examines the writings of the early church jealousy, gossip, one-upmanship, slander and division.” its authors expended to create communities within where one can arrive at divergent conclusions. He also which social barriers could be overcome, social hierar- invites a discussion of sociological and anthropological Hill provides examples among the disciples, the Church chies transcended, and the social marginalized accepted. studies on the human condition with similar results in of Corinth and saints elsewhere to deepen the study. They attempted to manage spaces in which existing light of the scripture. Dealing with ambition and social distinctions would not only be overcome; they “There is one element common to nearly every answer would become irrelevant, made obsolete by the knowl- (resulting from Scripture) and that is an appeal to the status edge of God’s perfect love,” he writes. “It takes effort to- example of Jesus,” Hill writes. day, as well. ‘Being Christian is a corporate exercise. We Hill notes the value of ambition in and of itself is experience God’s love – and with it our own salvation, Examining the love, mind and example of Jesus, the ambiguous. “A gifted person who lacks ambition will our own justification – together. Where that happens, reader is left with asking, “How did Jesus do it?” Hill achieve little and the worst people in history have been there is the church as the apostles intended it. believes the remarkable consistency that runs through spectacularly ambitious,” Hill writes. “We must ask,

The Current JANUARY 2017 7 >> COUNCIL OF BISHOPS LETTER << Council of Bishops President addresses ‘Division and Discord’

WASHINGTON, D. C. – In a pre-holiday, post-election letter to the people of The United Methodist Church, Bishop Bruce R. Ough, president of the Council of Bishops, called upon all Christians to “remember who we are” in this time of tension and anxiety and work to overcome hatred and discrimination. The letter follows:

To the People Called United Methodist: reminded us of “our pitiful hearts that tend to judge, religious communities. Prejudice is overly articulated Grace and peace in the name of Jesus Christ! divide, oppose and condemn” and cautioned som- in the media, in politics and even in churches. On the eve of Advent and in the post-election berly against those who “raise walls, build barriers Throughout the United States, there has been a climate in the United States, I write as President of and label people.” rapid escalation of violence related to race, ethnicity, the Council of Bishops to call for a renewed com- As followers of the Christ, we are harbingers, sexual orientation and religious preference. This esca- mitment to the vision of the Beloved Community of models and guardians of the Beloved Community. lation includes personal attacks, bullying and vicious Christ. As those baptized into the Body of Christ, we “accept and criminal acts of violence to the mind, body and Isaiah prophesized that a child would be born to the freedom and power God gives us to resist evil, spirit of persons. These actions diminish life for victims re-establish the beloved community – a time of end- injustice and oppression in whatever forms they and their families, as well as for the perpetrators and less peace, a time of justice and righteousness, a time present themselves” and to renounce the spiritual the whole community. They are the ultimate, insidious of reconciliation and unity. forces of evil in the world, our respective nations and and irreverent attacks on the sacredness of God-given the church. As disciples of Jesus, we stand against life. For a child has been born to us, a son given to us; all expressions of hatred, discrimination, oppres- Across the world, terrorism – as demonstrated authority rests upon his shoulders; sion and exclusion. As those who serve Christ, we by wanton acts of violence against innocent persons And he is named love whom Christ loves. As stewards of Jesus’ Good – leaves a trail of loss of life, limb, home and com- Wonderful Counselor, News, we are peacemakers, pray for our enemies and munity. Discriminatory treatment is widely practiced Mighty God, seek reconciliation with those from whom we have against immigrants and refugees everywhere around Everlasting Father, become estranged. the world. All of this creates a universal atmosphere Prince of Peace. At the November 2010 meeting of the Council of suspicion, mistrust and fear. Often this is the result COUNCIL OF BISHOPS LETTER His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be of Bishops in Panama, the Council issued a pastoral of religious persecution of various faith communities, endless peace letter calling for United Methodists to be bearers of including Christians, which threatens the capacity or for the throne of David and his kingdom. the beloved community across the globe. The letter hope for reconciliation and peace. The church is called He shall establish and uphold it with justice and is eerily contemporary and relevant to our current to decisively and directly counter these acts and engen- righteousness context. It points to the opportunity that is uniquely der and empower a ‘perfect love that casts out all fear.’ from this time onward and forevermore. ours to bind up the wounds and to proclaim the Ad- (I John 4:18, NVSV) Through intentional action we Isaiah 9:6-7 NRSV vent prophecy of a time of justice and righteousness. can ‘overcome evil with good.’ (Romans 12:21, NRSV) In a post-election article, Bishop Gregory I include the full text as a reminder of the king- It is incumbent upon the bearers of this vision of Palmer eloquently stated the reality of a divided dom reality we are call to incarnate: a beloved community to do whatever we can today to United States. “Everywhere we turn we are reminded “We, the bishops of The United Methodist Church, hasten the day of a just world with peace. This is our of the profound fissures along the lines of gender, feel compelled to renew our commitment to work to hope, our prayer and our commitment.” race and class, just to name a few. The truth is these become the beloved community of Christ. We, as a Friends in Christ, this is not an invitation to fissures and divisions are not new and not directly Council, desire to deal with the crucial issues of racism naiveté. People’s lives, livelihoods, security and well- attributable to the long campaign season just ended. and the sacredness of every human being. Therefore, as being are at stake. Immigrants are scrambling for the For many years, there has been a growing trust defi- the spiritual and administrative leaders of the church, shadows. Indigenous peoples are disrespected and cit in public leadership and institutions. These are we issue an urgent call to the whole people of God, lay forgotten. Children of color are being bullied and trying times, and the fabric of who we are and who and clergy: to speak the truth in love in public and threatened. Muslims are being labeled and listed. we aspire to be has been stretched beyond anything private discourse, to act with compassion, and to work Women are ridiculed and objectified. The LGBTQ we desire to look upon. But look upon it squarely we for peace with justice in the world. community is filled with fear. Racism is being must.” In order to transform the world, in faithfulness to legitimized. Hundreds of millions remain impover- This state of division and discord is global, fu- Christ’s command, we must model respect and kind- ished without access to educational opportunities, eled by the racist, sexist and xenophobic rhetoric of ness and extinguish the fires of animosity. And thus, economic resources, or equal justice. the recent U.S. election cycle. Recently, Pope Francis we call on all churches to engage in genuinely honest We must stand against the meanness and hatred warned against the “virus of polarization” and hostil- dialogue and respectful conversation, such that others that is upon us. We must stand for what is best in us ity in the world targeting people of different nation- who observe the action in our lives might declare, ‘See as People of God. We must not address the anger, alities, races and beliefs. He was blunt and warned how they love each other!’ fear, confusion and insecurity of the prevailing against animosity creeping into the church, as well, As people of faith, we are charged to build the culture with more blame, attack and criticism. As noting “we are not immune from this.” Pope Francis beloved community because Christ has broken down Richard Rohr recently noted, “The best criticism of the dividing walls and ended the hostilities between the bad is the practice of the better.” We must stand us. Yet, we continue to build walls in the church and against bigotry, hate and discrimination in all forms the world which separate us and cause our hearts to and settings. We must proclaim from our pulpits grieve. the Good News that overcomes hatred and fear. We On the continent of Africa and in many parts must be quick to confess our own sin and places of of Asia, including the Middle East, the Philippines complicity and vigilant against all that diminishes and India, the historical and contemporary impact of the worth of any individual. colonialism, racism, tribalism, hostility and religious So, I urge all who follow the Christ to remember persecution continue to affect human relationships. who we are in this time. We are the People of God The challenge in the Philippines is to break down the called to proclaim the mighty acts of Christ who barriers between mainline society and tribal peoples. calls us out of darkness into his marvelous light. We Meeting this challenge will accord equal rights such as are the People of God called to create the Beloved land possession and free education for all. Community of Christ. We are People of God com- By nature, colonialism in Africa thrives on hostile, manded to love as Jesus loved. We are People of God violent and demeaning human relationships. Racism created to be the kingdom of God envisioned in the and tribalism cut deep wounds, not in one’s flesh and Advent prophecy and fulfilled by Jesus. This is our blood, but also on the soul and the spirit. These gaping vision, our hope, our prayer, our opportunity, our wounds leave permanent scars. commitment. May it be so! In Europe racism is a growing issue, with political Bishop Bruce R. Ough, President JAN. 15, 2017 parties openly working against minority, ethnic and www.umcgiving.org/HRD Council of Bishops, The United Methodist Church

8 The Current JANUARY 2017 >> NATIONAL NEWS << Pipeline protest supporters cheer re-route ruling BY SAM HODGES AND DOREEN GOSMIRE MITCHELL, S.D. (UMNS) – United Methodists who sup- ported the Standing Rock Sioux protest of the Dakotas Access Pipeline cheered the federal government’s decision to deny a construction easement under a dammed section of the Missouri River, and to look for alternative routes. “We’re so excited over the decision, and mindful of all the people who have worked so hard to get to this point,” said the Rev. David Wilson, superintendent of the Oklahoma Missionary Conference. The Standing Rock Sioux of North Dakota began their protest months ago, arguing that the pipeline as NATIONAL NEWS planned would threaten lands sacred to the tribe, as well as water safety. Based at a growing camp near Cannon Ball, N.D., the protest has drawn support from many other tribes, as well as environmentalists, religious groups and even U.S. military veterans. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced Dec. 4 that it would not permit the pipeline to go under Lake Oahe, a section of the Missouri River, and that another route would be sought. Photos by Dave Stucke, Dakotas Conference President-elect Donald Trump has voiced strong sup- port for the pipeline, raising questions of whether the (ABOVE) Flags of support line the road at Oceti Sakowin decision might be reversed. But United Methodists Camp, near Cannon Ball, N.D. who joined the protest were upbeat anyway. “We want to celebrate this win,” said the Rev. Mike Arguments, pro and con Flowers of the Dakotas Conference’s Spirit Lake Minis- The 1,170-mile Dakotas Access Pipeline is try Center, which has helped supply protesters. “What a $3.8 billion project of Dallas-based En- better time to be rejoicing than Advent?” ergy Transfer Partners, intended to bring Other United Methodists noted the complexity of the crude oil from North Dakota to a shipping situation, especially for residents of the Dakotas. point near Patoka, Ill., in the Illinois Great Rivers Conference. The pipeline is nearly “We must be careful to not assume that everyone is finished. The only work left in North opposed to the pipeline or that everyone is making Dakota was to have been the segment money in big oil,” said the Rev. Kermit Culver, district under Lake Oahe. superintendent for the Sakakawea District serving Bismarck, N.D., and the Bakken Oil Field. Supporters have touted the pipeline as a safe, job-producing project that has fol- “We have congregations in the heart of the Bakken lowed the government’s permitting pro- “The situation in North Dakota continues to grow and (and) hundreds of United Methodists in law enforce- cedures and will increase U.S. energy independence. impact the lives of so many,” his statement said. … ment, the National Guard and state government. They They decried the Corps’ Dec. 4 announcement. “We must help all of those who are in need because of all need our support and prayers.” the current situation, those at Standing Rock, those in President Obama addressed the issue in November, the Bakken and our government officials. Prayer is the The Rev. Ross Reinhiller leads Faith United Methodist saying he hoped to accommodate the Native Ameri- most powerful tool we have.” Church, in Williston, North Dakota, and his congre- cans’ concerns and that an alternate route was under gations has both supporters and opponents of the consideration. The Rev. Chebon Kernell, who oversees Native Ameri- pipeline. can and Indigenous People's ministries for the United Wilson, a member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Methodist Board of Global Ministries, and Mary Andre- He said he would have preferred for the Corps to an- said the pipeline as planned was an infringement on olli, head of communications, were at Standing Rock nounce another route, but believes the Dec. 4 decision the sovereignty of the Standing Rock Sioux, and raised Dec 1-5, to support the Native American leadership will ease a tense situation between protesters, authori- serious environmental concerns, including for water and community there. ties and construction workers. safety. “This really takes that pressure off,” he said. He has made four trips to the protest encampment, Boom, bust in North Dakota delivering supplies from Oklahoma Indian Mission- North Dakota has attracted thousands of workers from ary Conference churches. He described the protest as across the United States and abroad, as oil companies historic. set up hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, operations that “This has been the one issue that has brought the extract tens of billions of dollars' worth of oil and gas tribes together,” Wilson said. from the Bakken shale. Bishop Bruce Ough of the Dakotas Conference also has The decrease in oil prices has caused the industry to visited the camp site, as have the Rev. Susan Henry- cut hours and slow down exploration. Many families Crowe, top executive of the United Methodist Board of are experiencing loss of income but not a reduction in Church and Society, other church agency leaders and expenses. United Methodist clergy and laity. North Dakota saw a 200 percent jump in homelessness Henry-Crowe praised the Corps’ decision. in 2014, the biggest increase of any state. “This victory demonstrates the power of peaceful, (Hodges, a United Methodist News Service writer, lives prayerful resistance,” she said in a statement. in Dallas. Gosmire is director of communications for the Dakotas Conference. Linda Bloom of UMNS contributed.) Bishop Bruce R. Ough and Jennifer Martell of Sitting Bull College met at Ough called for prayer for all affected. Oceti Sakowin Camp, near Cannon Ball, N.D. on Sept. 10, 2016.

The Current JANUARY 2017 9 >> GLOBAL NEWS << Liberia Conference ban on divorced bishops could be tested BY JULU SWEN Nelson could be nominated from the floor at made from the floor during the West Africa Central MONROVIA, Liberia (UMNS) – The firm the West Africa Central Conference, and that could Conference will be discussed in depth, including rea- intention of Liberian United Methodists not to have a prompt the test of the Liberia Conference’s legislation sons why the individual might not have been allowed bishop who has been divorced could be tested at the against bishops who have been divorced. to participate in the episcopal election process in the West Africa Central Conference, set to meet in Abi- The Liberia Conference will cite the legisla- Liberia Conference. djan, Côte d’Ivoire, Dec. 14-18. tion to challenge any floor nomination of a divorced “The UMC Book of Discipline allows nomina- On April 18, 2015, members of the Liberia Con- elder, said Rudolph Merab, the conference’s lay leader tion on the floor, but the West African Central Confer- ference voted 433 to 24, with six abstentions, to affirm and leader of its delegation to the West Africa Central ence must approve the individuals nominated before a conference rule which bars divorced clergy persons Conference. they become official candidates for the episcopal elec- from nomination for bishop. Merab said the Liberia Conference’s position is tion,” Kulah noted. The Liberia Conference endorsed two candi- supported by the doctrinal standards in the Book of The interim bishop said further said that for the dates for bishop on Feb. 13, 2016. They are the Rev. Discipline, paragraph 104, and by Scripture. “divorce legislation” to take effect at the West Africa Samuel J. Quire, administrative assistant to current “We will use Scripture to keep the moral stand- Central Conference, it must be debated and voted upon Liberia Conference interim Bishop Arthur F. Kulah, ing of the church in the Liberian society,” he said. by delegates attending the conference in Abidjan. and the Rev. David Tokpah, a pastor in the Greater Merab said there may well be a vote at the West “If the West Africa Central Conference throws New Jersey Conference. The Rev. Julius Nelson received Africa Central Conference on the Liberia Conference’s the divorce legislation off the conference floor, who- votes at the annual conference during February, but legislation. He said the Liberia Conference delegation ever gets nominated, whether they were barred by the was barred by the divorce legislation. Nelson is vice will speak with one voice, should that occur. church in Liberia … will be part of the candidates for Interim Bishop Kulah, in an interview with the office of bishop,” he concluded.

GLOBAL NEWS president and dean of student affairs of the University of Liberia. United Methodist News Service, said any nomination Swen is a communicator in Liberia. Ebola vaccines declared safe in Liberia BY JULU SWEN MONROVIA, Liberia (UMNS) – Ebola trial vaccines that were first administered in February 2015 have been declared safe and could soon be ready for use to prevent the spread of Ebola in any new outbreak of the deadly virus. Dr. Francis Kateh, a former administrator at Ganta United Methodist Hospital who participated in the trial, declared that the vaccines are safe. “The vac- cines are good — that is why I am here and well,” he said. He considers the Ebola vaccine trial the biggest contribution Liberia has made to the world in terms of health. Dr. Stephen Kennedy, coordinator of Ebola research and co-investigator of the trial vaccine study, said the vaccines were scientifically proven to be safe and the trial was conducted in a transparent atmo- sphere. He feels the vaccines can now be used to combat the virus in terms of future outbreaks. “The role of Liberia in the trial process was to ensure that a vaccine was created for global use,” Kennedy said. He pointed out that, medically, Libe- Photo by Julu Swen, UMNS ria was the first country where a vaccine trial was Dr. Francis Kateh, a United Methodist and Liberia’s chief medical officer, volunteered to take the Ebola vaccine several months ago. He is conducted during the epidemic itself. healthy and showing no signs of complications. According to Kennedy, the vaccines are now await- ing licensing by the U.S. Food and Drug Adminis- that the emerging health complications that Ebola an online publication about United Methodist hap- tration before they can be used in combating the survivors are facing have nothing to do with the penings in West Africa and assists the denomination Ebola virus throughout the world. He further said vaccines. in Liberia with coverage for United Methodist Com- that Liberia has been given a special opportunity to munications. use the vaccine in case there is an Ebola outbreak in Swen is editor and publisher of West African Writers, the future. “The vaccines have increased the immune system of those who participated in the trial process,” Ken- IGRC mission trip planned for July 2017 nedy confirmed. SPRINGFIELD – Plans are underway for a mission trip Registration and a $500 deposit is due Feb. 15. Please experience to Liberia in July 2017. designate that funds are for July 2017 Liberia check and Though the Ebola vaccines trial ended with a While the initial focus was on training school teachers in made payable to IGRC. Two team meetings will be held success, planners and health authorities are now Liberia, IGRC Missions and Outreach Coordinator Bunny at the United Methodist Center in Springfield. The first observing about 1,500 participants for another year Wolfe has said the trip is open to anyone. meeting is March 4. A valid passport and immunization while they wait for all of the protocols that will lead record will be needed for the trip. Total cost for the trip is $3,700. First-time mission trip to the licensing of the vaccines. participants can apply for partial funding of the trip. Visit To download a brochure, visit: www.igrc.org/liberia for “We all are feeling fine and healthy as far as I know,” http://www.igrc.org/missiontripgrant. Note a Feb. 1 more details. Kennedy said. The health authorities also indicated deadline for grant funding.

10 The Current JANUARY 2017 There’s still time! >> CONFERENCE NEWS << Time to plan for year-end giving BY TED FROST annuity ($610) – greater than most bonds or CDs. The end of the year is often a time of reflection about Next, a portion of the $610 annual annuity may be the past year and hopes for the New Year. The end of the tax-free over your life expectancy. This may increase the year reflection is a unique opportunity to see how our taxable equivalent yield to over 7 percent. giving can be beneficial to us and to those in need. Finally you will receive a 2016 charitable income tax Cash gifts are a convenient and popular way to show deduction for the remaining portion of your gift. This your faithful support for the church or other ministries. deduction may save you $1,000 or more in federal in- The full amount of the gift may qualify as a 2016 chari- come taxes. Making a life-income gift now offers all these table income tax deduction. You must make certain your advantages and provides the satisfaction of knowing you check is dated 2016 and received or postmarked no later have helped your church or charitable organization in a significant way.

than Dec. 31, 2016. CONFERENCE NEWS For some people during the Advent and Christmas Sometimes we can use old life insurance policies that time there will be people missing from the table set for are no longer needed. Consider giving the policy to the celebration. Year-end gifts in honor or memory of those church and receive a charitable income tax deduction we love is a fitting demonstration that they are remem- for the lesser of your cost basis or the replacement value. bered. These memories can be a way to enrich our lives This is a great way to benefit your church without reduc- during this special time of year. ing your checking account. If the value is more than you Not everyone has the cash flow to make the type of wish to donate, consider cashing in the policy and giving gift that they want. Sometimes the use of investments a lesser portion, your gift may sufficiently reduce or that have increased in value (stocks, bonds, real estate, or eliminate any potential taxes due from the sale. mutual funds) will allow us to make a significant gift at People who are 70 ½ year old are required to take this time of year. And don’t forget those investments that a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) from their may have lost value over the year. When making a gift of retirement accounts. This requirement creates a taxable investments that have decreased in value we may be able event for people. The Government now allows you to to sell them and take the loss on our income taxes. give all or a portion of your RMD (up to $100,000) to There are many ways to give a gift and reserve a your church and not have to pay income taxes on all or lifetime of income such as a Charitable Gift Annuity or the portion that is given to the church. This gift must be and Charitable Remainder Trust. Gifts of this type could made directly from the group that holds your retirement possibly increase your income and create a tax deduction. account to your church. You should be able to contact Let’s assume you are 70 years old and wish to make a your retirement holder of the account and they will help $10,000 gift to the church when you are gone, but need to you with the distribution to your church. receive income until then. You can make the gift now and (Rev. Ted Frost is the executive director of the Illinois Great receive several attractive benefits. Rivers Conference Foundation. This article is not intended First, you could receive income that exceeds what as legal/tax advice. It is always important to consult with you are currently earning on the $10,000. At age 70 you those who prepare your taxes or financial planner to see may receive 6.1 percent of the $10,000 each through a gift how this can best work for you.)

Covenant Keepers 2017 registration open Overtime rules won't Online registration is now open for Covenant Keepers University, United Way, IBM, the Association of University Change - for now... 2017 which will be Jan. 30-31 at the Holiday Inn and Con- Women, and Union Carbide. He was on the board of direc- vention Center in East Peoria. tors for the Sexual Assault Resource Center and Women in BY RICK VAN GIESEN Cost for registration is $30 per person and includes a Crisis (Battered Women). He was on the PA subcommit- IGRC Conference Treasurer Monday noon luncheon. Register online at: www.igrc.org/ tee for Government Drug and Alcohol Services. He is past SPRINGFIELD – A federal judge has issued an in- ck2017 president of the Berks Area Psychological Society. He was junction which will put new overtime regulations The theme for this event is: CK2017: Keepers of the an executive manager for IBM Corporation and is currently on hold, for now. Covenant. working on a full feature animated film, expanding the Keynote speakers for the event are Dr. Jay Carter and award-winning "Bully Caterpillar” story. The regulations, which were set to take effect on Dr. Sandra Whitacre Herron. Herron was Director of the Singles Dec. 1, would have made millions of employees Carter has made more than 100 ap- Ministry at the Crystal Cathedral and was eligible for overtime pay, including some church pearances on national television and radio a trainer at the Fuqua International School lay employees. in the USA, Canada, Australia, and United of Christian Communications. She had Therefore, the opinion piece that I wrote for the Kingdom (BBC-TV in London), includ- problems deciding what she wanted to be December issue of The Current is moot, at least for ing the Larry King Show and the Montel when she grew up. the time being, except for one thing: It's still true Williams Show. He consulted with Reader's Her many careers include being a that some churches have classified some employ- Digest for an article on "Mean People," and teacher, speech pathologist, psychotherapist, speaker/trainer ees as "self-employed contractors" who are not has consulted with the Oprah Winfrey Show. He has ap- and minister. She teaches communication/homiletics at the actually self-employed contractors. The commo- peared in Oprah magazine and Cosmopolitan several times. California Graduate School of Theology and is a mentor to tion about employment practices should serve as He was a talk show host on Berks Community TV for four doctoral students. She has a private practice as a Life Skills years. Coach, and presents seminars such as Communication Boot an opportunity to clean up the misclassification of Psychologist, best-selling author, speaker, and film Camp, Playmate, Stalemate, Soulmate and Soul Journey employees - which is a serious IRS violation. maker (awards for "Bipolar Light" and the "Bully Caterpillar" wherever requested. A helpful guide can be found at the GCFA website: pilot film), Carter is a professional speaker doing seminars Her blended family consists of her husband Jim, and: 8 http://s3.amazonaws.com/Website_GCFA/ser- and workshops for organizations around the country. He good children, 12 grandchildren, 1 grandbaby on the way, vices/legal/Employee_or_Independent_Contrac- is the author of the bestselling book, "Nasty People," which and 1 child who is both great and grand. Adding to the fam- tor.pdf (there are underscores between the words has sold over one million copies in the USA and around ily mix is a dachshund puppy that majors in mischief and not spaces) the world. His newest book is the Complete Idiots’ Guide to older dachshund who can talk! Bipolar Disorder via Alpha Books (Penguin Group), 2009, Sandra teaches faith and she practices that faith as she A link to my "Current" article is here: http://www. available through Amazon.com flies around the country with her husband Jim in an airplane igrc.org/blogpostsdetail/the-church-and-the- He is a regular speaker for Cross Country Education that he built out of spare parts! new-overtime-regulations-one-mans-opin- where his audience is comprised of social workers, coun- Life is a series of victories and struggles, but Sandra has ion-6663937 selors, educators, medical doctors, nurses, nurse practitio- emerged victorious, joyfully answering her calling to serve ners and psychologists. He has appeared before colleges, Jesus Christ. universities, and institutions like Loyola University, Temple The Current JANUARY 2017 11 >> CONFERENCENEWS<<

CONFERENCE NEWS IN THE MOOD: IN THE for bidding. pieces and gingerbread houses on display and available decorated 4-foot trees and dozens of wreaths, center can inspire— they someone to get of ideas own." their are many so crafts so manyand things to do. The trees through Nov. 20. education. foster care,tion services, residential care and special The agency's Normal-based programs include adop- largestthe fundraiser of year the forBaby The Fold. West buildings. Expo ting inspired inThe InterstateCenter's Expo and Mini matting. made of felt and were snowballs the made of quilt treesChristmas and Nov. snowballs threw 18. and NaShyla McQuirter built snowmen, decorated Bloomington Pantagraph BY PAUL SWEICH Festival raises money Baby for Fold 12 "It had alot of princess dolls," she said. "Iwish I Arbuckle's favorite tree was princess the tree. The festival includes 38decorated 7-foottrees, 45 "It's said Arbuckle, fun," 10,of Mackinaw. "There The festival opened Nov. 18 and continued eventThe the was 23rd annual Festival of Trees, No matter. The children werelaughing and get- But snowmen, the trees and decorations were BLOOMINGTON –Sylvia Arbuckle, Jaxon Hill The Current JANUARY 2017 - of the Pantagraph, www.pantagraph.com) Yockey said. "There's alot of warmth here." eventful for families and it's for still Baby The Fold," Yockey, has who volunteered 23years. all Goldsworthy. awareness on sides,"said teacher both therapist Marlee and skills puttingsocial together everyone brings Warms Heart" the —and other trees. mit Junior High Senior saw School tree their —"Joy and Jack's grandmother, Carol Burroughs. with Wes's mother Kristy, grandmother Andrea Miller joyed Redbirds', Legos', and firefighters' baseball trees Mullins, 5,and Jack Burroughs, of 3,both Normal, en- day Lynsey season," said. Riddle enjoyed her first sip of hot chocolate. tree andtory atree with Mickey Mouse before she pointed out Love the of tree, Duckies Candy the Fac- her mother Lynsey and grandmother Lois Teague, ing people." "We can enjoy and experience the know that it is help- said. work on language their and arts math Bruun skills, Bruun. gingerbread houses, said language teacher arts Sheri badges —designed, decorated and donated eight naw. The students — proudly wearing "Designer" festival from Judah Preparatory Academy inMacki- "Thankthe You"tree with Americanflags. could bid on it —ifIhad alot of money." (Reprinted with permission from the Nov. 19issue trees"The beautiful,arebeauti a still it's - still Among festival volunteers on Friday was Carolyn "It gives students the achance to increase their Students with intellectual disabilities from Ham- As achildren's choir sang on stage, Wes friends "It (festival) definitely gets us excited forthe holi- she said, reaching"Good," for asecond sip. Kamila 3,of Riddle, Normal, was who there with "It's important for to kids the give back," she said. Working on houses the allowed students the to The children, several classmates,and werevisiting "I like flags," said. Hill Hill, 9,of Bloomington, said his favorite tree was of Trees. (BOTTOM LEFT) kit at asheandhisgrandmotherfriends toured tree Lego theFestival upfor Christmas auction (ABOVE) JackBurroughs, snow inJingleBellJunction. 3,pointsouthisfavoritewith artificial Lego (AT Sylvia Arbuckle, 10,right, covers LEFT) herfriends, Jaxon Hill, left, andNaShyla McQuirter, 10, dozens oftrees at The Baby Fold’s Festival of Trees. and families.” children andconnect ourmissionto support further church have andcommunity stepped upto helpus encouraged by oursuccesses andtheways that the time ofinnovation andtransformation. We are very this isvitalduring ofourdonorsandfriends support witheachotherinhealthyto connect ways. The communities across thestate, helpingfamilies integrate staffinto schools, ourexpert homesand weather thestorms oflife that affect usall. We and programs to familieswhoare strugglingto share ourmission. The Baby Fold provides people weekend,a family-friendly Christmas butalsoto this specialevent isto provide with thecommunity Public Relations went onto say, of purpose “The Aimee Beam, Vice President ofDevelopment and all whocameto The Baby Fold’s Festival of Trees.” feel likewe received anincredible oflove gift from ofourhundreds ofvolunteers.support We really support The Baby Fold. We are sograteful for the numbers were 10,000peoplecameto nearly up- night, andBreakfast withSanta. Attendance two selloutevents- SneakPeek Event onopening Baby Fold pleasedwiththeevent. isvery “We had worship. Jessica McLane, Festival Coordinator at The trees withHopeUnited Church Methodist leading and familyfun. We even hadchurch amongthe dozens ofwreaths andcenterpieces, music, food, over 100beautifullydecorated trees, Christmas way to welcomeperfect theholiday seasonwith to familiesallover was the and services Illinois. It Baby Fold to deliver exceptional, programs quality The 23rd fundraiser annualChristmas helps The and familiesheal, andgrow. connect, withusinourmissionto helpchildren to partner was truly “A ofLove” Gift from ourdonorswhochose BLOOMINGTON – The Baby Fold’s Festival of Trees Fold’s Festival of Trees 10,000 attendBaby Kathy Susin, left, ofMetamora,andJaneFrieden,Kathy Susin, right, ofDowns, tour Photos by David Proeber, The Pantagraph CONFERENCE NEWS

13 Photos by Paul Black Black Paul Photos by JANUARY 2017 JANUARY << NEWS >> CONFERENCE The Current accepting its order, liturgy, doctrine, and discipline, doctrine, discipline, and liturgy, order, its accepting all doctrines to against contrary it defending be to yourself committing and Word, Holy God’s the those to with serving and you, with accountable supervise to appointed those who are and bishop ministry?your fulfill this God. To of help the I will with I answered, be silent. I will longer no vow, I will no longer be silent. I will be loyal to The United United I will The be to be silent. loyal I will longer no vow, all doctrines against it defending by Church Methodist rules of including Word, Holy God’s to contrary are that Word, Holy God’s which violate the General Conference own my the log from remove to and neighbor our love to neighbor’s. my after going before eye, UMC, Wesley Bradley of pastor is Smith Julie Rev. (The District). River Vermilion Children’s Home Children’s were trees 42 decorated 17-20. In all, Nov. Trees of its annual Festival hosted classrooms. and area individuals local businesses, by the Festival to donated the three-day than 500 community members attended More with the event last year. over agency than $15,000 – an increase more raising The United Methodist Unless I am convinced by the testimony of the Holy the Holy of the testimony by convinced I am Unless believe I can reason-for evident by or Scriptures they that clear is it as alone, councils pope nor neither themselves-I contradicted and repeatedly erred have Holy of the testimony by convicted myself consider captive is conscience my basis; my which is Scripture, willand not I cannot God. Thus of the Word to is conscience one's because acting against recant, Amen. me. God sound. help nor safe neither this: was vow one ordination my At Methodist Church, United The to be loyal you Will image. Called to the ministry of God in The United CalledUnited the ministryimage. to God of in The news the ‘good I bring as And Church. Methodist the and Wesley of the people to the Christ’ Jesus of of the words I serve, I remembered communities larger Heiko Scholar Reformation by related as Luther Martin Devil. the and God Between Man Luther: Oberman’s, of CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 PAGE FROM CONTINUED p. 3, Nov. 2016). 3, Nov. p. What is right for me is the understanding that that the understanding is me for right is What the national on stand I do not Ritter, Rev. Unlike my silence and to name what I see as a failure. A failure A failure I see a failure. as what name to silence and my the entirety be hold to Christian, to means it what of and baptismal doctrine both my ethics of and the polity, a as me to given courage of A failure vows. Ordination for stand to and wrong name Risenthe to gift Christ from traditions the Wesleyan honor to A failure right. is what Methodist Church. United The to me which brought ALL— us for “gift is a and salvation of grace gift God’s TOGETHER; it the future into us draws that something is it and in the world work at Spirit God’s of the power is The Amerson, (Philip this.” limit to ability our beyond Current, I peer self-promotion. whether selection by or stage, with a personal relationship who has one as stand simply years. many for me directed guided and has Christ that Oct. 30, I remembered Sunday, Reformation on But divine own in God’s God of A child created who I am. RESPONSE Preachers’ Aid Society and Benefit Fund

Wise men and women still seek Him..

www.pasbf.org • 217-529-3221 Let Preachers’ Aid help you with your financial planning in 2017. See us about estate planning, gift annuities, and on-going contributions.