Oklahoma Annual Conference the United Methodist Church Bishop Robert E

Oklahoma Annual Conference The United Methodist Church Bishop Robert E. Hayes Jr.

Pre-Conference Workbook Plans and Goals for the Year 2016 Report of the Boards and Commissions 2014-2015 Prepared by B. Craig Stinson, Director of Connectional Ministries

Annual Conference Council 1501 N.W. 24th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73106 Layout and Editing–Department of Communications www.okumc.org Oklahoma City University Map

Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 2 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 www.okumc.org

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Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 3 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 www.okumc.org Clergy & lay delegate seating

Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 4 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 www.okumc.org Floor plan of St. Luke’s UMC

Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 5 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 www.okumc.org

On Fire to Serve 2015 Session of the Oklahoma Annual Conference May 25 - 28, 2015 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. – Romans 12:11-13 (NIV) St. Luke’s UMC – Oklahoma City University DAILY SCHEDULE (times listed are approximate) Monday, May 25 All Events at St. Luke’s UMC 1 – 5 p.m...... Registration opens 7 p.m. �� Eucharistic Service of 2 p.m...... Lay Delegate Orientation - Christian Life Center Thanksgiving & Remembrance Rev. Jorge Acevedo, Preaching 3:30 p.m. ��Laity Session - Christian Life Center Bishop Robert E. Hayes Jr., Presiding 3:45 p.m. ��Clergy Executive Session - Sanctuary 9 p.m. ��Reception for Rev. Jorge Acevedo 6:30 p.m. ��Pre-worship Concert - Frederick-First UMC and families of deceased

Tuesday, May 26 Tuesday Morning and Afternoon Events at OCU

6 – 11 a.m...... Health Screenings, 3 p.m. �� Strategic Plan (15) Kramer School of Nursing East, 2nd floor 3:15 p.m. �� Break (15) 7 a.m. – 6:30 p.m...... Registration – Freede Center, Lobby 3:30 p.m...... Annual Conference Council (10) 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m...... Treasurer’s Office New People, New Places (12) Open for Moving and Retiree Checks Leadership Development Ministry Team (7) Board of Laity (15) 8:30 a.m. �� Business Session - Freede Center, OCU United Methodist Women (5) Episcopal Address (30) Saint Paul School of Theology at OCU (10) Laity Address (20) United Methodist Foundation (15) 9:30 a.m. �� Teaching Time (60) Young Adult (5) ��Break Board of Ordained Ministry (10) 10:30 a.m...... Enabling Motions (5) Introduction of Ordinands and Commissioned (10) 11 a.m...... Election of lay & clergy delegates Announcements General and Jurisdictional Conference 5 p.m. �� Dinner break Meal offered at OCU to those who have pre-ordered ...... Announcements Noon...... Lunch Break Tuesday Evening Events 2 p.m. ��Worship Service of Retirement 6:30 p.m. ��Election of lay & clergy delegates 2:45 p.m. ��Business Session General and Jurisdictional Conference – Freede Center, Election Report OCU Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 6 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 www.okumc.org Wednesday, May 27 Thursday, May 28 Wednesday Morning Events at OCU Thursday Events at OCU

6 – 11 a.m...... Health Screenings, 6 – 11 a.m...... Health Screenings, Kramer School of Nursing East, 2nd floor Kramer School of Nursing East, 2nd floor 7 a.m. – Noon...... Registration – Freede Center, Lobby 7 a.m. – 3 p.m...... Registration – Freede Center, Lobby 8:30 a.m. – Noon...... Treasurer’s Office 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m...... Treasurer’s Office Open for moving and retiree checks Open for moving and retiree checks

Day of Mission (informal dress today)

7:30 a.m. ��Service of Word and Table 7:30 a.m. ��Service of Word and Table Rev. Carlos Ramirez, homily – Smith Chapel, OCU Donna Pewo, homily – Smith Chapel, OCU 8:30 a.m. ��Business Session – Freede Center, OCU 8:30 a.m...... Business Session – Freede Center, OCU United Methodist Men (3) Archives and History (5) Church closings (10) United Methodist Senior Living Facilities (5) Department of Congregational Development (20) Mission and Service Ministry Team (10) Academy for Bi-vocational Local Pastors (5) Office of Mission (30) Annual Conference Corporation (7) Restore Hope Ministries (3) Commission on Religion and Race (3) Project Transformation (5) Equitable Compensation (10) Skyline Urban Ministry (3) Commission on Status & Role of Women (3) Criminal Justice and Mercy Ministries (12) Discipleship Ministry Team (7) Cookson Hills Mission (7) Camp and Retreat Ministries (12) Board of Pensions and Health Benefits (20) Small Membership Church Commission (5) 10:20 a.m...... Break (15) Hispanic Ministries (10) 10:35 a.m...... Business session 10:20 a.m...... Break (15) Committee on Episcopacy (5) 10:35 a.m...... Business Session Trustees (15) Youth Ministries (5) Communications (15) Campus Ministry (12) Church and Society (5) Treasurer’s report (10) Lydia Patterson Institute (5) Youth Workers Academy ( 5) Circle of Care (15) Oklahoma City University (15) Introduction of Chaplains (under appointment) (5) Courtesy Introductions (5) Announcements Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference (10) Noon...... Lunch Break Noon ��Mission Experiences 1:30 p.m. ��Business Session Box lunch available for those remaining at OCU Council on Finance and Administration (20) Standing Rules (15) Evening Events at St. Luke’s UMC Nominations (10) Pending Legislation (30) 5 p.m. ��Ordinands Dinner Final Motions (3) 6:30 p.m. ��Pre-worship Concert – St. Luke’s Chancel Choir 3 p.m. �� Announcements & Break (15) 7 p.m. �� Service of Commissioning and Ordination 9 p.m. ��Reception – Christian Life Center 3:15 p.m. ��Service of Appointment and Sending Forth honoring Bishop Robert and Mrs. Dee Hayes 4 p.m. ��Dismissal and those newly Commissioned or Ordained Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 7 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES 1 million because of the new retirement benefits for our retirees. 2 The Department of Administrative Services of the 2 You will hear more about this in the Treasurer’s report. 3 Oklahoma United Methodist Conference is here to serve 3 4 the various ministries of the conference and the over 500 4 The Wellness Committee is keeping active as they propose 5 local churches, mission congregations and new church start 5 adding a minimum amount of 5,000 steps for a discount in 6 congregations around our state. Our goal is to effectively 6 the clergy premiums. Participation in the wellness program 7 use the resources that God has blessed us with to help 7 is critical for the health of our participants and we encourage 8 make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the 8 everyone to take advantage of the workshops that will be offered 9 world. Our department includes the Treasurer / Accounting 9 this year and to maintain an active and healthy life style. The 10 Office, Conference Benefits Office, Computer Services and 10 dates for upcoming workshops are: Healthy Clergy Retreats 11 Conference Statistics. 11 - August 31, 2015 at New Hope UMC in Oklahoma City, and 12 12 September 1, 2015 at Faith UMC in Tulsa and the Clergy 13 This portion of your Pre-conference Journal covers 13 Benefits Retreat on October 1 – 2 at Egan Camp and October 12 14 the areas of finance, trustees, statistics, health and pension 14 –13 at Canyon Camp. 15 benefits, equitable compensation and the clergy moving 15 16 fund. 16 As some conferences pull out of the health insurance 17 17 business completely, our hope is to be able to continue 18 To help you, I would like to point out a couple of items 18 providing benefits to both our active and retired clergy and 19 that you should be aware of before you come to this year’s 19 lay workers. As the complexity of reporting benefits for 20 conference in Oklahoma City. 20 the government increase, our plan is to continue providing 21 21 information for local churches on reporting requirements that 22 2014 REPORT ON VITAL CONGREGATIONS 22 will be required in the future. 23 (A STATISTICAL REPORT) 23 24 Many of the decisions that must be made this year 24 2016 CONFERENCE BUDGET CHANGES 25 are based on the reality revealed through the Conference 25 26 statistics. For the past five years, our average worship 26 Once again, the Council on Finance and Administration 27 attendance has dropped by 5,535 people to a total average 27 is proposing a reduction in the Apportionment budget for 28 worship attendance of 50,679 in 2014. A good indicator 28 the Conference. The proposed budget is $14,882,701 which 29 though is the fact that people joining through professions 29 represents a reduction of $492,012 or 3.2% over last year. 30 of faith have increased for the first time in over 10 years. 30 Increases this year include a $375,000 increase in funding 31 In 2014, there were 2,073 people who joined the United 31 for new faith communities and in revitalizing existing 32 Methodist church in Oklahoma through profession of faith, 32 congregations through “New People, New Places.” There are 33 up by 9 from last year! You will hear throughout Conference 33 new apportionments for the new district administrators of 34 this year that the mission of the United Methodist Church 34 nearly $280,000 and for CCL/CVLI licenses for all of the 35 is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation 35 churches in the Conference. 36 of the world and that it is the local church that provides 36 37 the most significant arena through which disciple-making 37 The major decreases are for the reduction of district 38 occurs. Adding just 9 more people than last year may seem 38 superintendents of $324,120 and reduction of the Active 39 insignificant, but what is important is that our trend has 39 Clergy Health Fund of $633,000. 40 been reversed. We just need to keep on the new track. 40 41 41 As June 1, 2016 approaches with the changes in the 42 2016 HEALTH INSURANCE CHANGES 42 number of districts, transitioning district staff to conference 43 43 staff, and a change in how we do the business of the district, 44 For the first time in several years, the Conference Board 44 I suspect the next year and a half will be stressful for all 45 of Pension and Health Benefits is not recommending any 45 concerned. I pray that when we come out of the other end of 46 major changes in our health plan. This is due primarily to a 46 the tunnel, we will be a stronger conference, with more people 47 conflict between Blue Cross, our medical network provider 47 calling themselves United Methodist and being excited about 48 and Maxcare, our prescription benefit provider. We are 48 spreading the Wesleyan spirit across our great state. 49 working hard to get this resolved so that next year we can 49 50 present a new high deductible plan with a health saving 50 Brian Bakeman 51 account attached to it. In 2016, the movement of funding 51 director of Administrative Services / 52 our active health plan from being apportionment funded to 52 Treasurer / Conference Benefits Officer / Statistician 53 ministry funded continues, so the 2016 budget will be the last 53 54 one to have an apportionment for active clergy health care. 54 55 55 56 The really good news to report is that because of the good 56 57 claims record last year, we are proposing a zero increase in the 57 58 health insurance rates for 2016. In addition, it is exciting to 58 59 note that our post retirement medical liability has drastically 59 60 dropped from approximately $127 million to just over $29 60 8 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 Part A: Requiring Action 1 COUNCIL ON FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION 2 The Council on Finance and Administration, after prayerful and serious study, submits the following report: 3 4 1. SPECIAL DAYS: 5 6 The following special days are recommended to be observed by the local churches through publicity, services of worship, 7 and offerings. (Many churches include these offerings as part of the local church budget.) 8 A. Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation Month...... January 2016 9 The month of January is scheduled for emphasis on the work of the Foundation 10 (Resources–Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation) 11 12 B. Human Relations Day...... January 17, 2016 13 The offering is for Community Developers, Voluntary Services, and Youth Offender Rehabilitation programs. 14 15 C. One Great Hour of Sharing...... March 6, 2016 16 Proceeds from this offering are used by the United Methodist Committee on Relief, which responds to emergency 17 and other special needs. 18 19 D. Rural Life Sunday/Camps Day...... April 10, 2016 20 A time to recognize and appreciate the ministry and place of our rural churches and to promote our summer 21 camping program. 22 (Resources–Mission and Service Ministry Team, Department of Congregational Development, and Camps Board) 23 24 E. Native American Ministries Sunday...... April 17, 2016 25 This Sunday serves to remind the church of the contributions made by Native Americans to our society. One half 26 of the offering will be used by the Annual Conference to develop and strengthen Native American Ministries. The 27 balance will be used by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry to provide scholarships for Native 28 Americans attending United Methodist schools of theology. 29 30 F. Senior Living Ministries...... May 8, 2016 31 32 G. Peace with Justice Sunday...... May 22, 2016 33 The offering received on this Sunday is used 50% by the General Board of Church and Society and 50% for the 34 Annual Conference Mission and Service Ministry Team in Peace with Justice Ministries. 35 36 H. Call to Ministry Sunday...... To be observed by local churches 37 Invite youth and others to respond to the invitation to consider the ordained ministry of deacons and elders as a 38 career. Receive an offering for the Conference Seminary Scholarship Endowment. 39 40 I. World Communion Sunday...... October 2, 2016 41 The World Communion Sunday offering is divided among Crusade Scholarships, Ethnic Minority Scholarships, and 42 the Ethnic Minority In-Service Training Program. 43 44 J. United Methodist Student Day...... November 27, 2016 45 This offering is used for United Methodist Scholarships and the United Methodist Student Loan Fund. 46 47 K. Circle of Care Sunday...... December 18, 2016 48 This offering supports our Oklahoma ministries with children, youth, and families: Child SHARE; Holsinger Home, 49 Enid; Children’s Home, Tahlequah; Boys Ranch, Gore; Frances E. Willard Ministry Center/Pearl’s Hope, Tulsa. 50 (Resources–Circle of Care Inc.) 51 52 2. SPECIAL SOLICITATION OF FUNDS: 53 54 The Council recommends that agencies and institutions listed herewith be authorized to solicit for programs, current 55 expenses, and endowment funds. Any new capital projects such as new buildings, purchase of land, expansion of existing 56 facilities, etc., that might potentially obligate the Annual Conference shall be brought to CF&A for approval before solicitation of 57 funds begins. CF&A recommends that the following agencies and institutions be granted permission to solicit funds within the 58 above restrictions: United Methodist Circle of Care Inc.; Trustees of Camps and Conferences; Oklahoma United Methodist Prison 59 Ministry (CJAMM); Campus Ministries; The Oklahoma United Methodist Retirement Facilities; Oklahoma City University; 60 Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits; Restore Hope Ministries; Skyline Urban Ministry; Cookson Hills Center; 9 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 Congregational Development; Addiction Ministries; Volunteers in Mission; Emergency Crisis Fund for Clergy Covenant Families; 2 District Boards of Missions; The Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation; Hispanic Ministries; and Project Transformation. 3 4 The Council recommends that only the above listed agencies be authorized by the Annual Conference to solicit funds on a 5 continuing basis. 6 7 Any other conference-wide appeal or campaign for funds that is requested between sessions of the Annual Conference must 8 be authorized by a joint session of the Council on Finance and Administration and the Annual Conference Cabinet. 9 10 3. ANNUAL CONFERENCE BUDGET 11 12 Oklahoma United Methodist Conference 13 2016 Apportionments 14 15 2014 Budget 2015 Budget 2016 Budget % Diff 16 A. World Service and General Church Ministries 17 1. World Service 1,561,756 1,569,880 1,566,918 -0.19% 18 2. Ministerial Education Fund 536,175 538,957 537,954 -0.19% 19 3. Black College Fund 213,865 214,995 214,595 -0.19% 20 4. Africa University Fund 47,859 48,108 48,039 -0.14% 21 5. Interdenominational Cooperation Fund 41,912 42,171 42,092 -0.19% 22 6. General Administration Fund 188,474 189,493 189,181 -0.16% 23 Total World Service and General Church Ministries 2,590,041 2,603,604 2,598,779 -0.19% 24 25 B. Jurisdictional Ministries 26 1. Mount Sequoyah Conference & Retreat Center 15,178 15,178 15,178 0.00% 27 2. SMU Campus Ministry 3,910 1,978 - -100.00% 28 3. Lydia Patterson Institute 63,473 63,473 63,473 0.00% 29 4. Jurisdictional Administration Fund 29,728 29,728 29,728 0.00% 30 Total Jurisdictional Ministries 112,289 110,357 108,379 -1.79% 31 32 C. Conference Ministries 33 1. Annual Conference Council 485,000 495,000 505,000 2.02% 34 35 2. New People / New Places - 700,000 825,000 17.86% 36 37 3. Mission and Service Ministry Team 38 a. Mission and Service Ministry Team 46,000 43,000 39,000 -9.30% 39 b. Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference 120,000 120,000 120,000 0.00% 40 c. Criminal Justice and Mercy Ministry 377,000 352,495 326,820 -7.28% 41 d. Restore Hope 97,850 91,490 84,086 -8.09% 42 e. Skyline Urban Ministry 97,850 91,490 84,086 -8.09% 43 f. Cookson Hills Center 70,000 65,450 59,869 -8.53% 44 g. Neighborhood Services Organization 22,000 20,570 18,130 -11.86% 45 h. Office of Mission 340,000 317,900 294,647 -7.31% 46 i Circle of Care 700,000 654,500 607,685 -7.15% 47 j. Prevent Recover Ministry 69,750 65,216 59,650 -8.53% 48 k. Project Transformation 7,000 5,000 5,000 0.00% 49 l. Hispanic Ministries 140,000 130,900 120,027 -8.31% 50 Total Mission and Service Ministry Team 2,087,450 1,958,011 1,819,000 -7.10% 51 52 4. Discipleship Ministry Team 53 a. Discipleship Ministry Team 107,100 90,000 87,000 -3.33% 54 b. Camps and Conferences 258,000 250,000 245,000 -2.00% 55 c. Oklahoma City University 975,000 877,500 782,500 -10.83% 56 d. Campus Ministry 813,686 748,500 663,500 -11.36% 57 Total Discipleship Ministry Team 2,153,786 1,966,000 1,778,000 -9.56% 58 59 60 continued on page 11 10 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 5. Leadership Development Ministry Team 2 a. Leadership Development Ministry Team 37,000 38,000 38,000 0.00% 3 b. Board of Ordained Ministry / Ministerial Recruitment 90,000 100,000 125,000 25.00% 4 c. Bi-vocational Pastor’s Academy - - 12,000 new 5 d. St. Paul School of Theology at OCU (expires in 2017) *** 215,000 215,000 215,000 0.00% 6 Total Leadership Development Ministry Team 342,000 353,000 390,000 10.48% 7 8 6. Congregational Development Department 9 a. New Faith Communities 475,000 776,000 901,000 16.11% 10 b. Racial Ethnic New Church Starts 46,200 46,200 46,200 0.00% 11 Total Congregational Development Department 521,200 822,200 947,200 15.20% 12 13 7. Communication Department 425,951 431,000 437,000 1.39% 14 15 8. Conference Administration Ministries 16 a. Administrative Services 368,000 381,400 400,550 5.02% 17 District Administrators (6) - - 279,300 new 18 b. Treasurer’s Office 369,000 255,000 295,000 15.69% 19 c. Executive Housing 16,000 16,000 16,000 0.00% 20 d. Area Fund 15,000 15,000 15,000 0.00% 21 e. Assistant to the Bishop 60,000 61,000 61,600 0.98% 22 f. Ministry Development 20,000 20,000 20,000 0.00% 23 g. Information Technology Department 40,000 40,000 45,000 12.50% 24 h. Conference Statistician 2,000 2,000 2,000 0.00% 25 i. Council on Finance & Administration 2,500 2,500 2,500 0.00% 26 j. Committee on Episcopacy 500 500 500 0.00% 27 k. Annual Conference Sessions 92,000 92,000 92,000 0.00% 28 l. Conference Secretary 30,000 30,000 30,000 0.00% 29 m. General Conference Delegation 2,000 2,000 2,000 0.00% 30 n. Agency Emergency / Capital Fund 70,000 70,000 70,000 0.00% 31 o. Conference Annual Audit 28,000 30,000 34,000 13.33% 32 p. Commission on Archives and History 12,300 12,300 12,300 0.00% 33 q. CCLI / CVLI Licenses - - 111,600 new 34 Total Administration Ministries 1,127,300 1,029,700 1,489,350 44.64% 35 36 9. Ministerial Support * 37 a. District Superintendents’ Fund 1,580,000 1,450,000 1,125,880 -22.35% 38 b. Episcopal Fund and Housing Fund (505,113 + 14,000) 468,030 482,841 519,113 7.51% 39 c. Equitable Compensation Fund 200,000 200,000 200,000 0.00% 40 d. Active Clergy Health Fund 1,873,000 1,273,000 640,000 -49.73% 41 e. Retired Clergy Health Fund 2,497,000 1,300,000 1,300,000 0.00% 42 f. Ministers’ Moving Fund 200,000 200,000 200,000 0.00% 43 Total Ministerial Support 6,818,030 4,905,841 3,984,993 -18.77% 44 45 TOTAL APPORTIONMENTS 16,663,047 15,374,713 14,882,701 -3.20% 46 47 * The MINISTERIAL SUPPORT items must be paid in an amount proportional to the amount paid on the pastor’s support, 48 as required in Paragraphs 622, 639.4, and 818.3 of the 2012 Discipline. If the pastor is paid 100% of salary and support, then these 49 items must be paid 100%. 50 51 *** The proposed apportionment for St. Paul Seminary at OCU is for five years ending in 2017 52 53 4. AUTHORIZED CHANGES 54 55 Internal budgets related to the Annual Conference Council, ministry teams, and departments (line item amounts printed 56 elsewhere in the Journal) within the totals listed above are binding unless changed by authorization of the body by whom those 57 budgets were approved. Entities empowered to authorize such changes are as follows: Annual Conference Council, Mission and 58 Service Ministry Team, Discipleship Ministry Team, Leadership Development Ministry Team, Department of Congregational 59 Development, and Department of Communications. 60 11 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 5. THE 2016 CONFERENCE DECIMAL PLAN 1 6. CABINET AND CONFERENCE EXECUTIVE 2 The Council recommends that all 2015 Apportionments 2 DIRECTORS’ SALARIES, ALLOWANCES, AND EXPENSES 3 shall be distributed annually to the local churches on the basis 3 The following amounts shall be the total remuneration for 4 of each church’s decimal, calculated as follows: 4 each of the named offices. In each case, utility costs and other 5 5 housing costs shall be included in the calculation of the gross 6 A. Each local church’s decimal shall be based on the 6 compensation and set apart by resolution of the Council on 7 church’s expenditures as reported to the Annual 7 Finance and Administration. 8 Conference and recorded in the Statistical Tables of the 8 9 Journal, or as corrected and certified by the District 9 Moving expenses for district superintendents and other 10 Superintendent and reported to the Council on Finance 10 conference executives shall be paid from the Ministers’ Moving 11 and Administration. 11 Fund according to the guidelines in effect at the time of the move. 12 12 No additional expenses in connection with a move or change 13 B. Each local church’s total for Current Program Expense, 13 of appointment shall be paid from Annual Conference Funds. 14 Other Operating Expense, and all Staff Compensation 14 15 (including diaconal ministers and clergy) for the years 15 A. It is recommended that the 2016 gross compensation 16 2012, 2013, and 2014 shall be divided by the Annual 16 for each district superintendent shall be 148% of the 17 Conference total of those same items for the same three 17 2016 Conference Average Compensation as determined 18 years. (Columns 53, 54a, 55a, 56a, 57, 58, 59, 60a, 61a, 18 by the General Board of Pension and Health Benefits, 19 and 62a for 2012 and columns 48, 49a, 50a, 51a, 52, 53, 19 rounded to the nearest $100, plus $3,000 in an accountable 20 54, 55a, 56a, and 57a for 2013, and 2014). 20 expense reimbursement account. Business travel will be 21 21 reimbursed at the standard IRS business mileage rate. All 22 C. Those congregations that anchor a new church start 22 compensation and expense reimbursements shall be paid 23 approved by the Cabinet and have a clergy appointed to 23 from the District Superintendents’ Fund. 24 undertake the task will have amounts listed in columns 24 25 54b, 55b, 56b, 60b, 61b, and 62b deducted from their 25 B. It is recommended that the 2016 gross compensation 26 expenses in 2012 and 49b, 50b, 51b, 55b, 56b, 57b in 26 for the Director of Connectional Ministries shall be 27 2013, and 2014 above. 27 148% of the 2016 Conference Average Compensation 28 28 as determined by the General Board of Pension and 29 D. For new church starts approved by the Cabinet the 29 Health Benefits, rounded to the nearest $100, plus $6,600 30 calculations for apportionments will be calculated 30 in an accountable expense reimbursement account. 31 starting the first full year after the church is chartered. 31 An additional $15,300 shall be included as a housing 32 32 allowance. Business travel will be reimbursed at the 33 E. For those congregations that start a new church satellite, 33 standard IRS business mileage rate. All compensation and 34 statistics will be kept for each individual satellite. The 34 expense reimbursements shall be paid from the budget of 35 apportionment for the satellite will not be included in 35 the Annual Conference Council. 36 the parent church’s apportionment for the first three 36 37 years of operation. 37 C. It is recommended that the 2016 salary for the Conference 38 38 Treasurer/Director of Administrative Services shall be 39 F. Churches who make donations to new church starts 39 148% of the 2016 Conference Average Compensation as 40 and/or church revitalization may show those donations 40 determined by the General Board of Pension and Health 41 on line 48 so that those are not included in their 41 Benefits, rounded to the nearest $100, plus $6,600 in an 42 Apportionment calculations. 42 accountable expense reimbursement account. An additional 43 43 $15,300 shall be included as a housing allowance. Business 44 G. The resulting decimal for each church shall be multiplied 44 travel will be reimbursed at the standard IRS business 45 by the amount of each Apportionment approved by the 45 mileage rate. Salary and expense reimbursements shall be 46 Annual Conference as the budget for the year. 46 paid from the budget of the Conference Treasurer. 47 47 48 H. The amount so determined shall be distributed to each 48 D. It is recommended that the 2016 gross compensation for 49 local church as its share of the Apportionments to 49 the Director of Communications/Administrative Assistant 50 be presented to each charge, but not made subject to 50 to the Bishop shall be 148% of the 2016 Conference 51 acceptance. It is requested that each Apportionment as 51 Average Compensation as determined by the General 52 apportioned shall be included in full in each local church 52 Board of Pension and Health Benefits, rounded to the 53 budget, reflecting a commitment to the worldwide 53 nearest $100, plus $6,600 in an accountable expense 54 mission of The United Methodist Church. Local 54 reimbursement account. An additional $15,300 shall be 55 churches who so desire may include ministerial support 55 included as a housing allowance. Business travel will be 56 items, designated on the Apportionment sheet by an 56 reimbursed at the standard IRS business mileage rate. 57 asterisk (*), in the clergy support section of their budget. 57 Salary and expense reimbursements shall be paid from the 58 Interpretative information about the Apportionments 58 budget of the Department of Communications. 59 will be available to laity and clergy. 59 60 60 12 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 7. HOLIDAYS 1 11. INFORMATION IN JOURNAL 2 The following holidays shall be observed by Conference 2 Information concerning clergy salaries, housing 3 Ministry Center Staff: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King 3 allowances, and accountable expense reimbursement amounts 4 Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor 4 can be found in the statistical tables in the Conference Journal. 5 Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, Christmas, and one 5 6 floating holiday on a date determined each year. 6 12. REGULAR REMITTANCES 7 7 The Council strongly recommends each local church 8 8. PROCEDURE FOR RESPONDING TO REQUESTS 8 make a determined effort to remit Apportionments in equal 9 FOR COMPLIANCE WITH DISCIPLINE ¶613.19 9 monthly installments to provide for the support of our 10 The Oklahoma Annual Conference Council on Finance 10 outreach ministries each month of the year. One-hundred- 11 and Administration advises conference boards, agencies, 11 percent participation in Apportionments is defined as 12 committees, commissions, and councils of all restrictions 12 remittance in full of each apportioned item. 13 in The Book of Discipline on the use of funds and sends 13 14 compliance requests. 14 13. CERTIFIED CHURCH BUSINESS ADMINISTRATORS 15 15 Brian Bakeman, Deacon – Conference Treasurer 16 16 The Council hereby designates its Executive Committee Philip Greenwald, Deacon – Oklahoma City, St. Luke’s UMC 17 to deal with requests for clarification of compliance 17 18 with Discipline ¶613.19, which prohibits any board, 18 14. STANDARD MILEAGE RATE 19 agency, committee, commission, or council from giving 19 The mileage rate for volunteers attending meetings 20 United Methodist funds to any gay caucus or group, or 20 and participating in Annual Conference ministries and 21 otherwise using such funds to promote the acceptance of 21 administration shall be the IRS charitable mileage rate. [That 22 homosexuality. 22 amount is presently fourteen (14) cents per mile.] 23 23 24 The Executive Committee is convened if and when a 24 15. BUDGET AND ACCOUNTING MODIFICATIONS 25 request is received asking for clarification of an action of any 25 We authorize the treasurer to adapt a modified cash basis 26 entity receiving Annual Conference funds that is thought 26 of accounting (rather than accrual basis). We also authorized a 27 to be out of compliance with ¶613.19. CF&A then informs 27 unified budget for the Conference Ministry Center. 28 the entity that a request for an opinion was received and 28 29 requests from the entity all materials relevant to the inquiry. 29 16. POLICIES AND PROCEDURES OF THE AUDIT 30 The members of the Executive Committee will review the 30 REVIEW COMMITTEE 31 materials provided and may ask for information or input 31 Audit Review Committee Chairperson, Jeff Hedrick 32 from the entity in complicated cases. 32 33 33 PURPOSE: 34 Following its deliberations, the Executive Committee 34 35 makes its determination, and the opinion is shared with 35 The purpose of the Audit Review Committee is to receive 36 all interested parties. Any appeals may be made to the full 36 and review: the audit report on the Oklahoma Conference 37 Council on Finance and Administration, whose decision shall 37 financial records; audit reports or other financial information 38 be final. 38 from all conference agencies; audit reports or other financial 39 39 information from all agencies, institutions, and organizations 40 Possible outcomes: 40 receiving financial support from the Annual Conference; and 41 41 audit reports or other financial information from all districts 42 A) Determination that funds were not or will not be 42 or district agencies within the Annual Conference. 43 used in violation of ¶613.19. 43 44 44 Based upon these reviews, the Audit Review Committee 45 B) Determination that funds were or may be used 45 will make recommendations, as appropriate, to the Council 46 in violation of ¶613.19. In suchevent, the Council 46 on Finance and Administration. 47 retains the right to request return or withholding 47 48 of Annual Conference funds. 48 FUNCTIONS: 49 49 50 9. ANNUAL AUDIT 50 The Audit Review Committee shall: ensure the 51 Finley and Cook, P.L.L.C., certified public accountants, 51 financial records of the Oklahoma Annual Conference for 52 have audited the books of the Conference Treasurer for the 52 the preceding fiscal year are audited by a certified public 53 year 2014. 53 accountant within 150 days after the close of the Conference 54 54 fiscal year; receive, review, and report the audit to the 55 10. CENTRAL TREASURY 55 Council on Finance and Administration and the Annual 56 The Council on Finance and Administration would urge 56 Conference; require and review each year audit reports or 57 this Annual Conference to reiterate and emphasize its support 57 other financial information from all Conference agencies; 58 of the directive given by previous Annual Conferences to 58 require and review each year audit reports or other financial 59 consolidate Conference financial operations under a central 59 information from all agencies, institutions, and organizations 60 treasury where practical under prudent business practices. 60 receiving any financial support from the Oklahoma Annual 13 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 Conference; and require and review each year audit reports 1 the closest meeting date to March prior to May). 2 or other financial information on all funds received or 2 3 administered by districts or district agencies. 3 The Chair of the Audit Review Committee will report 4 4 to the Council on Finance and Administration a summary 5 MEMBERSHIP: 5 of the Audit Review Committee’s work and any specific 6 6 recommendations for further investigation or action that may 7 The Chair of the Audit Review Committee shall be 7 be warranted as a result of the audit reviews. 8 elected by the Council on Finance and Administration from 8 9 the members of the Council. At least half of the members of 9 The Audit Review Committee will support the work of the 10 the Audit Review Committee shall be persons who are not 10 Annual Conference Council, by providing the results of the 11 members of the Council on Finance and Administration, who 11 Committee’s audit review to the Annual Conference Council 12 are chosen for their expertise in areas related to the work of 12 for all entities subject to a Ministry Audit. 13 the Audit Review Committee. 13 14 14 The audit review process and the information required for 15 MEETINGS: 15 review will be evaluated each year. 16 16 17 The Chairperson will call meetings as needed to review 17 17. GUIDELINES FOR PROJECT REVIEW COMMITTEE 18 financial reports and information received or to review and 18 Project Review Committee Chairperson, Wade Paschal 19 refine the audit review process, including the information to 19 20 be provided for review. 20 PURPOSE: 21 21 22 PROCEDURES/RESPONSIBILITIES: 22 To approve funding plans proposed by Conference agencies 23 23 and institutions, when fiscal accountability and reasonable 24 The Audit Review Committee, in consultation with 24 resources are available. 25 the Council on Finance and Administration, is responsible 25 26 for engaging the certified public accountant to perform 26 FUNCTIONS: 27 the annual audit of the financial records of the Oklahoma 27 28 Annual Conference. The letter of engagement should be 28 1. To receive and study requests from Conference 29 executed by the September meeting of the Council on 29 agencies and institutions for permission to enter fund-raising 30 Finance and Administration (or by the closest meeting date 30 campaigns for: 31 to September prior to year-end). 31 32 32 A. capital projects, including construction or 33 The Conference Treasurer’s Office will maintain a 33 purchasing buildings, acquiring land, or major 34 current mailing list of all entities whose audit reports or 34 renovation projects; and 35 financial information are subject to review by the Audit 35 36 Review Committee. 36 B. for new Conference program or executive positions. 37 37 38 The Conference Treasurer’s Office will be the permanent 38 2. To report all recommendations to the Council on 39 depository of all information and files related to the work 39 Finance and Administration, the Bishop, and the Cabinet. 40 of the Audit Review Committee, including all audit reports 40 41 or other financial information received, documentation of 41 MEMBERSHIP: 42 the audit review, and all correspondence regarding the audit 42 43 review and/or receipt of information. 43 1. Council on Finance and Administration members 44 44 to be named by the Council on Finance and Administration 45 By the end of the first quarter of each year, the Chair 45 Chairperson. 46 of the Audit Review Committee will email or mail a letter 46 47 to every entity subject to audit review, indicating the 47 2. Ex-officio without vote: Conference Treasurer 48 requirement to submit an Audit Report and Audit Report 48 and the Council on Finance and Administration Cabinet 49 Supplement to the Conference Treasurer no later than 49 Representative. 50 August 1st. 50 51 51 MEETINGS: 52 After the audit reports and other financial information 52 53 are received, the Audit Review Committee will meet at the 53 The chairperson, in consultation with the chairperson of 54 Conference Office and will complete the audit reviews on- 54 the Council on Finance and Administration of the Oklahoma 55 site. All reviews should be completed prior to the January 55 Conference, will call meetings as needed to review proposals. 56 meeting of the Council on Finance and Administration 56 57 (or the closest meeting date to January after the end of the 57 REVIEW PROCEDURE: 58 year). Any exceptions or requests for additional information 58 59 should be resolved to the extent possible by the March 59 1. Conference Agencies and Institutions will submit 60 meeting of the Council on Finance and Administration (or 60 to the Project Review Committee written approval of the 14 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 appropriate Conference Programming Board. 1 2. A list of projects approved shall be included in the 2 2 Conference Finance and Administration report to the Annual 3 2. The agency or institution will submit written 3 Conference. 4 application to the Project Review Committee and request 4 5 to be included on the agenda of the next Project Review 5 Tom Junk, chairperson 6 Committee meeting. 6 Robert Gorrell, vice chairperson 7 7 Chris Tabberer, secretary 8 3. Presentation materials shall include: 8 Brian Bakeman, treasurer 9 9 10 A. Written description of the project to be 10 11 financially underwritten. 11 COMMITTEE ON EPISCOPACY 12 12 The Episcopacy Committee expresses our deepest 13 B. Written approval of the agency’s or institution’s 13 appreciation for the excellent leadership of Bishop Robert 14 Board for the project. 14 E. Hayes, Jr. and his wife, Dee. We have been honored and 15 15 blessed by their energy, humility and pastoral service in 16 C. The most recent financial statement showing 16 Oklahoma. 17 operating accounts, capital accounts, a 17 18 statement of value of current property, and 18 The Episcopacy Committee functions somewhat like 19 other assets. 19 a Pastor/Parish Relations Committee. We try to discern 20 20 and remove obstacles which might impede Bishop Hayes’ 21 D. Written report from Council on Finance and 21 ministry here. 22 Administration Audit Review Committee. 22 23 23 Some of our conversations since last Annual Conference 24 E. A payment record on all indebtedness for the 24 have included: 25 past three years. 25 26 26 1.) our Bishop’s vision of new church starts and 27 F. A written plan for raising funds toward the 27 congregational development; 28 project. 28 29 29 2.) district re-alignment; 30 4. A second meeting may be required by the agency or 30 31 institution to present the final financial plans by specifying: 31 3.) strengthening our relationship with the Oklahoma 32 32 Indian Missionary Conference (OIMC); 33 A. The refined needs statement. 33 34 34 4.) hosting the 2014 Council of Bishops in Oklahoma 35 B. The financial resources to accomplish the 35 City; 36 project. 36 37 37 5.) the Bishop’s sabbatical plans (July 1 – August 31, 38 1. Cash amount on hand. 38 2015); 39 39 40 2. Pledges on hand or expected. 40 6.) the Bishop’s personal self-care; 41 41 42 3. Other resources. 42 7.) the current state and maintenance of our Episcopal 43 43 residence; and 44 C. Written assurance of cash available to be 44 45 promptly paid on obligations when due. 45 8.) development of an on-going, annual evaluation of our 46 46 bishop-in-residence. 47 D. Written plans for financing the operating, 47 48 upkeep, and programming resulting from this 48 As Bishop Hayes enters his final year in Oklahoma, the 49 expansion. 49 Episcopacy Committee will work with several other Conference 50 50 committees to discern our needs before we receive our new 51 5. The agency or institution is to be represented by 51 bishop in 2016. This evaluation will be shared with our General 52 its director, administrator, board chair, or other designated 52 Conference lay (Judy Benson) and clergy (Linda Harker) 53 person. 53 delegation leaders as they represent us at the 2016 South Central 54 54 Jurisdiction Conference. Our Committee intends to stay in a good 55 REPORTING: 55 relationship with the OIMC in this process. 56 56 57 1. The Project Review Committee shall submit a 57 Tom Harrison, chairperson 58 written report of its decision(s) to the Conference agency or 58 Barbara Benton, vice-chairperson 59 institution, to the bishop, and to the district superintendent in 59 Donna Thomas, Conference Residence Committee, chairperson 60 whose district the agency or institution is located. 60 Shari Goodwin, secretary 15 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 REPORT ON VITAL CONGREGATIONS 2 (A statistical report) 3 4 2014 Vital Congregation Statistics 5 6 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 7 Worship 60,582 58,594 58,019 57,511 56,214 55,653 54,341 52,180 50,679 8 Evangelism 2,699 2,420 2,292 2,259 2,290 2,214 2,175 2,064 2,073 9 Spiritual Formation 6,652 6,257 6,311 6,182 6,327 6,385 10 Missions 4,454 4,824 5,001 9,309 12,732 14,976 15,495 25,681 25,495 11 Stewardship 22,311,692 22,763,253 23,199,577 22,351,037 24,133,534 24,481,633 30,234,118 26,308,983 25,398,104 12 13 Every year we report on our local church statistics and try to compare them to last year. This year, in response to a report on vital 14 congregations, we are going to report using the metrics that they have developed in an attempt to better visualize how our 15 churches are doing. They have come up with five areas of measurement based on the past five years. 16 Worship measures the average worship attendance of all churches. 17 18 19 Worship 20 21 60,000 22 23 50,000 24 25 40,000 26 27 30,000 28 29 Axis Title 30 20,000 31 32 10,000 33 34 - 35 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 36 Worship 56,214 55,653 54,341 52,180 50,679 37 38 Evangelism measures the number of people who have joined the church by profession of faith. 39 40 41 42 Evangelism 43 2,500 44 45 46 2,000 47 48 49 1,500 50 51 Axis Title 1,000 52 53 54 500 55 56 - 57 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 58 59 Evangelism 2,290 2,214 2,175 2,064 2,073 60 16 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 Spiritual Formation measures the number of small groups, Sunday school classes and Bible studies. 2 3 Spiritual Formation 4 7,000 5 6 6,000 7 5,000 8 9 4,000 10 3,000 11 Axis Title 12 2,000 13 1,000 14 15 - 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 16 17 Spiritual Formation 6,257 6,311 6,182 6,327 6,385 18 Missions measures the number of people from congregations engaged in local, national and international 19 mission / outreach ministries. 20 21 22 Missions 23 30,000 24 25 25,000 26 27 20,000 28 15,000 29 30 10,000 31 32 5,000 33 - 34 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 35 Missions 12,732 14,976 15,495 25,681 25,495 36 37 Stewardship measures the total amount given by congregations to other organizations for the support 38 of benevolent and charitable ministries (includes apportionments paid, support for all United Methodist 39 organizations and non-United Methodist organizations active in work such as advocacy, education, health, 40 justice, mercy, outreach, and welfare anywhere in the world). 41 42 43 Stewardship 44 45 35,000,000 46 30,000,000 47 48 25,000,000 49 20,000,000 50 51 15,000,000 52 10,000,000 53 54 5,000,000 55 - 56 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 57 Stewardship 24,133,53 24,481,63 30,234,11 26,308,98 25,398,10 58 59 60 17 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 COMMISSION ON EQUITABLE COMPENSATION 1 compensation standards for clergy and other people 2 The 2012 Book of Discipline defines the purpose of the 2 providing pastoral leadership to local churches; 3 Commission on Equitable Compensation in ¶625.2 as “to 3 4 support full-time clergy serving as pastors in the charges of 4 To encourage specific churches that would benefit from 5 the Annual Conference by: 5 full-time clergy in their growth and development; 6 (A) Recommending conference standards for pastoral 6 7 support; 7 To support full-time clergy for ethnic ministry churches 8 8 in Oklahoma (¶625.6 in the 2012 Book of Discipline); and 9 (B) Administering funds to be used in base 9 10 compensation supplementation; and 10 To assist churches to progress toward complete support 11 11 of their pastoral leadership and to encourage alternative 12 (C) Defining employment status as follows: 12 plans for churches or charges unable to achieve this. 13 13 14 1. 100% - Full-time: 30+ hours per week 14 In order to fulfill these purposes, the Commission will 15 2. 75% - Part-time: 21-29 hours per week 15 administer the Equitable Compensation Fund under four 16 3. 50% - Part-time: 11-20 hours per week 16 sets of standards: Minimum Compensation, Exceptional 17 4. 25% - Part-Time: 0-10 hours per week 17 Assistance, Missional Support, and New Church Start 18 18 Assistance. Pastoral support funds will be paid to the church 19 (D) Providing counsel and advisory material 19 along with a specified amount to be used by the church to 20 on pastoral support to District Superintendents and 20 pay the portion of the pension related to the salary support. 21 Committees on Staff-Pastor-Parish Relations. 21 The Commission on Equitable Compensation encourages 22 22 cooperative and cooperating parishes in order to facilitate 23 The demands the Church and churches require of the 23 ministry and provide pastoral support. The CEC also 24 clergy as just, proper, and necessary are exceedingly great 24 encourages each church receiving funds, regardless of category, 25 and becoming more exacting all the time. 25 to engage in an annual budgetary financial campaign to 26 26 strengthen their ability to provide adequate compensation. 27 Educational requirements include the course of study, 27 All applications for Equitable Compensation Support shall 28 or seminary beyond college, and a probationary period with 28 be received by the Conference office by December 15th. 29 continuing education. 29 Failure to do so will make the church ineligible to receive any 30 30 Equitable Compensation funds effective January 1st. The total 31 Personal qualifications call for the highest integrity. 31 amount requested by the Cabinet on December 15th shall not 32 32 exceed the amount budgeted for the coming year. Failure to 33 Equitable ministerial compensation requires the highest 33 turn in the Annual Audit for the previous year by August 1st 34 priority be given to the claims on the pastor and family by 34 will result in termination of Equitable Compensation funds 35 the congregations as salary and other support items are set. 35 January 1st of the subsequent year. 36 In accordance with the Book of Discipline ¶271.6, a certified 36 37 lay minister is a layperson and as such is not eligible for 37 A pastor who is not receiving but entitled to compensation 38 support by equitable compensation funds or pension that 38 at the approved level of minimum compensation, as 39 are provided for clergy members. The local congregation is 39 established by the commission, may formally appeal in writing 40 encouraged to provide appropriate compensation. 40 to the Chair of Equitable Compensation his/her claim on the 41 41 fund. All appeals must be in writing and sent to the Chair of 42 I. Administration of Compensation 42 the Commission on Equitable Compensation, the Cabinet 43 43 Representative to the Commission on Equitable Compensation 44 A. SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDS 44 and the pastor’s district superintendent. 45 45 46 The order of deacon should receive the minimum 46 1. Minimum Compensation 47 compensation according to Schedule of Minimum 47 48 Compensation. Payment of all compensation is the 48 a. Requirements Necessary to Qualify for Minimum 49 responsibility of the salary-paying unit. The order of deacon 49 Compensation Support 50 has no claim on the Equitable Compensation Fund. 50 51 51 1. No two churches within 20 miles of each other will 52 Salary supplementation by the Commission is through 52 be allowed to share in the minimum compensation 53 the Equitable Compensation Fund and the Ministers’ 53 plan unless they combine to form a circuit. 54 Moving Expense Fund. 54 55 55 2. A pastor who is gainfully employed in any 56 The Oklahoma Conference Commission on Equitable 56 occupation other than the ministry shall not share 57 Compensation seeks to accomplish the following as its 57 in the minimum compensation provisions. To 58 purpose: 58 qualify, a pastor must serve full-time and live on 59 59 the charge. (Exceptions to the requirement that 60 To set adequate and reasonable salary and 60 pastors live on the charge may be approved by 18 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 the Commission on Equitable Compensation if 1 Connection Members living on the charge and in 2 recommended by the Cabinet.) 2 a parsonage shall receive $36,498 plus $2,400 for 3 3 each additional church. 4 3. The charge shall increase its portion of pastoral 4 5 salary and pension support a minimum of (5%) 5 2. Full-time Associate, Provisional, and Full- 6 five percent each calendar year. If a charge does 6 Connection Members living on the charge but not 7 not increase by a minimum of five percent, 7 living in a parsonage shall receive $45,622 (base 8 the Cabinet must support the claim to the 8 compensation plus housing allowance) plus $2,400 9 Commission on Equitable Compensation. 9 for each additional church. 10 10 11 4. In no case can a charge qualify for minimum 11 3. Full-time Local Pastors living on the charge and 12 compensation support if the churches of the 12 in a parsonage charge shall receive $32,320 plus 13 charge decrease the pastoral support below that of 13 $2,400 for each additional church. 14 2015. 14 15 15 4. Full-time Local Pastors living on the charge but not 16 5. The schedule listed below will be paid, provided all 16 living in a parsonage shall receive $40,400 (base 17 allocated funds are sufficient; if not, all claims shall 17 compensation plus housing allowance) plus $2,400 18 be paid on a pro rata basis. 18 for each additional church. 19 19 20 6. The charge should pay at least one-half of the 20 c. Requirements Necessary to Qualify for the 21 minimum compensation for the classification of 21 Minimum Compensation “Incentive Plan” 22 their pastor (B.1 and 2), provided that no charge 22 23 shall pay less than $12,000 for the year 2016. New 23 1. The objective of this plan, as with all minimum 24 churches may be exempted from this rule and 24 compensation support, is to strengthen the work 25 raise the $12,000 minimum from outside sources 25 of the local church. The goal of this plan is to 26 for a limit of five (5) years from the foundation of 26 allow and encourage local churches to increase 27 the charge or the inception of the revitalization. 27 pastoral support, allowing the pastor in the 28 28 appointment to receive the benefit of increased 29 7. Each church in the charge must pay pension on all 29 income from the local church without losing 30 base compensation paid by that local church. 30 support from the Equitable Compensation Fund. 31 31 32 8. No charge shall receive both minimum 32 2. Pastoral support increases by the local church 33 compensation support and any other salary 33 during the tenure of one pastor shall be added to 34 supplement at the same time. 34 the total allowable income for the pastor during the 35 35 duration of the appointment relationship of that 36 9. In order that a charge may qualify for minimum 36 pastor with that church. In the event the church’s 37 compensation, it is necessary that the district 37 portion of the pastor’s salary reaches or exceeds the 38 superintendent report the eligibility of the 38 minimum compensation, the Conference portion 39 charge and pastor on the form approved by the 39 must be negotiated with the Commission on an 40 Commission on Equitable Compensation to the 40 annual basis. In no case shall the combined support 41 chair of the Commission, who will then authorize 41 exceed the Conference Average Compensation. 42 the Conference Treasurer to make payments. 42 43 43 3. Whenever a change in pastoral appointment 44 10. In no case shall the amount paid to a charge for 44 occurs, or at the end of the Incentive Plan 45 a full-time pastor or seminary student who is a 45 Agreement, the charge is to maintain the then- 46 member of the Annual Conference be less than 46 existing level of pastoral support. At such time, 47 the minimum which, with housing provided by 47 calculation of equitable support payment shall be 48 the charge, will qualify for participation in the 48 adjusted so total compensation is correct for the 49 Comprehensive Protection Plan. Any supplemental 49 pastor’s classification. 50 amount needed may be paid from the Equitable 50 51 Compensation Fund as a special benefit. 51 4. In order for a plan to be in effect in any charge, 52 52 the Incentive Plan Application Form of the 53 b. Schedule of Minimum Compensation–Effective 53 Commission on Equitable Compensation shall 54 January 1, 2016 54 be submitted by the district superintendent 55 55 after Bishop and Cabinet approval to the chair 56 There are two classifications of ministers listed: 56 of the Commission, who will then authorize the 57 Conference Members and Local Pastors. No others are 57 Conference Treasurer to make payments. 58 eligible for minimum salary support. 58 59 59 d. Requirements Necessary to Qualify for Exceptional 60 1. Full-time Associate, Provisional, and Full- 60 Assistance 19 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 1. The Bishop and the Cabinet must agree that 1 3. Assistance cannot continue for more than four 2 Exceptional Assistance is warranted and needed. 2 years. 3 3 4 2. The Bishop and the Cabinet must agree on the 4 4. The initial amount may continue for up to two 5 duration and the initial amount of Exceptional 5 years and then decrease over the remaining years. 6 Assistance. 6 7 7 5. In order for a charge to qualify for New Church 8 3. Assistance cannot continue for more than four 8 Start assistance, it is necessary that the district 9 years. 9 superintendent submit the request for assistance 10 10 on the form approved by the Commission on 11 4. The initial amount may continue for up to two 11 Equitable Compensation after Bishop and Cabinet 12 years and then decrease over the remaining years. 12 approval to the chair of the Commission, who will 13 13 then authorize the Conference Treasurer to make 14 5. In order for a charge to qualify for Exceptional 14 payments. 15 Assistance, it is necessary that the district 15 16 superintendent submit the request for assistance 16 2. Equitable Compensation Fund 17 on the form approved by the Commission 17 18 on Equitable Compensation after Bishop and 18 Income 19 Cabinet approval to the chair of the Commission, 19 20 who will then authorize the Conference 20 Fund Balance January 1, 2014...... $283,048 21 Treasurer to make payments. 21 Receipts from Churches...... $199,509 22 22 Total Available...... $482,557 23 e. Requirements Necessary to Qualify for Missional 23 Disbursements 24 Support 24 25 25 Salary Support...... $210,503 26 1. Only situations identified by the Bishop and the 26 Commission Meetings...... $2,657 27 Cabinet shall qualify for support from this source 27 Total Disbursements...... $213,160 28 of funding. 28 29 29 Closing Balance 30 2. Pastoral support funding may be provided for 30 December 31, 2014...... $269,397 31 persons appointed or assigned to missional 31 32 settings without regard to the requirements for 32 B. OKLAHOMA UNITED METHODIST 33 Minimum Compensation Support. 33 CONFERENCE ARREARAGE POLICY 34 34 35 3. Such funding shall continue so long as the Bishop 35 1. In the event that the local church treasurer becomes 36 and the Cabinet agree that Missional Support is 36 aware that the church will be unable to provide to the 37 needed. 37 pastor full payment of a regularly scheduled payroll 38 38 or housing allowance installment, or to remit to the 39 4. In order for a charge to qualify for Missional 39 Conference Treasurer full payment for regular direct 40 Support, it is necessary that the district 40 billed benefit payments such as pension and health 41 superintendent submit the request for support 41 care, the church treasurer shall immediately notify 42 on the form approved by the Commission 42 both verbally (within 24 hours) and in writing (within 43 on Equitable Compensation after Bishop and 43 3 days) the Pastor, the Lay Leader, and the Chairs of 44 Cabinet approval to the chair of the Commission, 44 S/PPRC, Finance, Trustees, and the Administrative/ 45 who will then authorize the Conference 45 Church Council of the impending arrearage. Upon 46 Treasurer to make payments. 46 receipt of such notice, the Chair of S/PPRC and/or the 47 47 Pastor shall immediately (within 3 days) notify the 48 5. The total amount allocated as Missional Support 48 District Superintendent of the impending arrearage. It 49 shall not exceed 60% of the total amount 49 is the pastor’s responsibility to keep copies of all such 50 budgeted for salary support. 50 written notifications, and to provide additional written 51 51 confirmation to the District Superintendent when an 52 f. Requirements Necessary to Qualify for New Church 52 arrearage has taken place. Failure to document salary or 53 Start Assistance 53 benefit arrearages may result in a loss of compensation 54 54 and/or forfeiture of pension and benefits. 55 1. Bishop and the Cabinet must agree that New 55 56 Church Start assistance is warranted and needed. 56 2. Upon receipt of notice of a pending arrearage, the 57 57 Chair of S/PPRC shall immediately (within 24 hours) 58 2. The Bishop and the Cabinet must agree on the 58 call a meeting of the Pastor, Lay Leader, and Chairs 59 duration and the initial amount of New Church 59 of Finance, Trustees, and the Administrative/Church 60 Start assistance. 60 Council to discuss the financial situation and seek 20 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 remedies to prevent an arrearage from occurring. 1 of the pastor’s direct billed pension and benefits (i.e. 2 2 more than 60 days delinquent), then the Conference 3 Such remedies might include: 3 Treasurer shall notify the Conference Benefits Officer, 4 4 the District Superintendent, and the Commission on 5 • drawing from invested funds, including short- 5 Equitable Compensation. On behalf of the Conference 6 term borrowing from designated funds, 6 the Benefits Officer and/or District Superintendent 7 • an emergency appeal for special giving from the 7 shall develop a written payment plan with the local 8 congregation, 8 church so that the Conference receives full payment of 9 • emergency grants or loans from the District or 9 pension and benefits by the end of the conference year. 10 Conference. 10 11 According to The Book of Discipline ¶624, such remedies 11 7. Paragraph 2542.1 of The Book of Discipline makes 12 cannot include a reduction in the Pastor’s compensation 12 clear that no real property on which a church building 13 until the beginning of the next Conference year. 13 or parsonage is located shall be mortgaged to pay 14 14 for the current or budgeted expenses of a local 15 3. If, after consultation among the Lay Leader and 15 church (including arrearages), nor shall the principal 16 Chairs of S/PPRC, Finance, Trustees, and the 16 proceeds of a sale of any such property be so used. 17 Administrative/Church Council, it becomes apparent 17 This provision shall apply alike to unincorporated and 18 that the church may be facing a long term financial 18 incorporated local churches. 19 crisis, the Chair of S/PPRC shall notify in writing the 19 20 Pastor and District Superintendent that: 20 8. It is the responsibility of the pastor to provide evidence 21 21 of an arrearage by providing documentation such as: 22 • an Equitable Compensation Grant may be 22 Treasurer’s Reports, Charge Conference reports of 23 necessary to maintain compensation for the 23 adopted salary and compensation, check stubs, W–2 24 remainder of the Conference year, or 24 forms, and any forms signed by the Pastor, S/PRC 25 • a change in pastoral compensation or 25 Chair, Trustee Chair, Treasurer, and Administrative/ 26 appointment may be necessary at the beginning 26 Church Council Chair. 27 of the following Conference year. 27 28 28 9. The statute of limitations for filing a claim for funds from 29 4. If the local church becomes delinquent in the pastor’s 29 the Annual Conference (i.e. notification to the District 30 compensation (i.e. more than 30 days delinquent), 30 Superintendent of the arrearage) for any salary arrearage 31 then the District Superintendent shall notify the 31 is one year from the date of the initial arrearage. Once an 32 Commission on Equitable Compensation, which on 32 appointment ends the Pastor no longer has claim on the 33 its own initiative may do any or all of the following, 33 local church for compensation funds (¶342.4). 34 but not limited to: 34 35 35 10. An Administrative Complaint may be filed against a 36 • sending the Conference Treasurer to meet with 36 pastor who fails to report an arrearage according to 37 the local church and pastor to seek resolution of 37 the time lines established in this policy. 38 the issue, 38 39 • developing with the local church a payment 39 C. MINISTERS’ MOVING EXPENSE FUND 40 plan so that the pastor receives full payment of 40 41 compensation by the end of the conference year. 41 The primary spiritual leadership role within The United 42 • The District Superintendent shall participate in 42 Methodist Church comes from the appointment of itinerating 43 this process. 43 clergy leadership. To function at its best, the bishop needs 44 44 the ability to appoint the best person to lead and serve a local 45 5. If the local church is already receiving a grant from 45 church. Understanding that clergy are sent where needed, the 46 the Commission on Equitable Compensation, the 46 Ministers’ Moving Expense Fund is designed to help reimburse 47 Commission may also: 47 part of the moving expense for the itinerating clergy to move 48 48 from one appointment within the Conference to another. 49 • determine if all grant funds allocated to the 49 50 church were used to pay the pastor’s salary, 50 With that understanding, the Ministers’ Moving Expense 51 • examine the original grant application to 51 Fund will reimburse elders, associate members, local 52 determine if the amount requested to meet 52 pastors, and “to be supplied” pastors who are serving local 53 minimum compensation was reduced, 53 congregations or Oklahoma Conference institutions according 54 • require an external independent audit of all 54 to the following schedule: 55 church funds in compliance with guidelines 55 56 established by the Conference Treasurer 56 SCHEDULE – Effective January 1, 2016 57 • Notify the District Superintendent of its findings 57 58 and recommendations in writing. 58 1. Payments from the Ministers’ Moving Expense Fund 59 59 shall be as follows: 60 6. If a local church becomes delinquent in the payment 60 21 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 a. Only pastors under appointment and living on 1 spouse) shall be given a grant of $2,500 immediately if 2 the charge, or serving the Annual Conference in 2 the home has been provided by the church or agency 3 a connectional relationship, or in an Oklahoma 3 and a change of residence is required. If no change 4 Conference institution will be eligible to receive 4 of residence is required, the spouse (or individual 5 payment. 5 responsible for removing personal property, if there is 6 6 no surviving spouse), shall receive a stipend of $200 to 7 b. For pastors moving from one appointment to another, 7 clear out any office space or equipment. 8 payments shall be made at the rate of $1,900 plus $1 per 8 9 mile. In the case of a clergy couple, if the appointment 9 i. Payments shall be made directly to pastors at the 10 for each is changed and involves moving books and 10 close of the annual conference, or as soon thereafter as 11 equipment into separate church studies, there shall be an 11 possible. Certification of appointment changes shall be 12 additional payment of $200 per couple. 12 made by the Cabinet to the Conference Treasurer as 13 13 early as practicable. The Treasurer shall determine the 14 c. For the first move of a pastor to begin active service 14 mileage of each move using an Internet map service, 15 under appointment in the Oklahoma Conference, 15 such as MapQuest.com. When changes occur between 16 payment shall be made at the rate of $1,900 plus $1 per 16 sessions of the annual conference, the Cabinet shall 17 mile. For persons coming from out of state, the mileage 17 certify the changes to the Conference Treasurer, who 18 will be calculated from the Conference border to the 18 shall determine the amount of payment and issue checks 19 appointment. 19 as quickly as possible to the pastors involved. 20 20 21 d. For the following, the payment shall be $1,900: 21 2. The Commission recommends that the local church 22 22 receiving a new pastor make additional reimbursement 23 1) A pastor who is retiring or granted disability leave, if 23 toward the cost of moving expenses that are not covered 24 a change of residence is required; 24 by the Annual Conference moving allowance. 25 25 26 2) A pastor who is appointed to sabbatical leave, if a 26 3. Each minister shall make his/her own moving 27 change of residence is required; 27 arrangements. 28 28 29 3) A pastor returning to active appointment status from 29 4. When the decision of a local church or agency 30 sabbatical leave, leave of absence, or suspension, if a 30 makes it necessary for a pastor to change residences 31 change of residence is required. If a minister retires from 31 without changing appointments, the move shall be the 32 sabbatical leave, no additional payment will be made. 32 responsibility of the local church or agency. 33 33 34 e. No payment shall be made to a pastor who: 34 5. Status of Ministers’ Moving Expense Fund: 35 35 36 1) Is appointed to attend a school, college, or seminary; 36 Fund Balance January 1, 2014...... $69,296 37 37 Receipts from churches...... $199,570 38 2) Is moving to another annual conference; 38 Disbursements...... $144,902 39 39 Fund Balance December 31, 2014...... $123,964 40 3) Is going on leave of absence or under suspension. 40 41 41 II. Parsonage Standards 42 f. Pastors who move appointments but do not move 42 Note: See the 2012 Book of Discipline, Paragraphs 2501 - 2551, 43 residences shall receive a stipend of $200. 43 and others as applicable. 44 44 45 g. A retired pastor who is appointed as a supply pastor 45 A. CLERGY HOUSING STANDARDS POLICY OF THE 46 and a change of residence is required shall receive ½ 46 OKLAHOMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 47 of the basic allowance plus mileage, and will receive 47 48 the remaining ½ of the current basic allowance plus 48 1. Discipline Requirements and Assigned 49 mileage at the end of their appointment. An exception 49 Responsibilities for Clergy Housing 50 to this rule is when a retired pastor accepts a subsequent 50 51 appointment immediately following and is required 51 a. The Church Council shall: “review the 52 to change residences again will receive the full basic 52 recommendation of the committee on pastor- 53 allowance plus mileage. After this appointment or when 53 parish relations regarding provision of adequate 54 the pastor goes back into retirement the pastor will 54 housing for the pastor(s), and report the same 55 receive the other ½ of the current basic allowance rate 55 to the charge conference for approval. Housing 56 plus mileage 56 provisions shall comply with the annual conference 57 57 housing policy and parsonage standards. Housing 58 h. In the case of the death of a pastor while in active 58 shall not be considered as part of compensation or 59 service, the spouse (or individual responsible for 59 remuneration.” 60 removing personal property, if there is no surviving 60 22 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 b. The Committee on Staff-Parish Relations shall: 1 d. If excessive damages to church-owned and clergy- 2 ...“consult on matters pertaining... to housing 2 occupied housing are evident, beyond that incurred 3 (which may be a church-owned parsonage 3 with normal wear and tear, the outgoing clergy family 4 or housing allowance in lieu of parsonage if 4 shall be responsible for costs of damages. A list of the 5 in compliance with the policy of the annual 5 damages and cost of the repair will be presented to the 6 conference), and other practical matters affecting 6 district superintendent, who will work with the local 7 the work and families of the pastor and staff. 7 church and the outgoing clergy family to recover costs 8 The parsonage is to be mutually respected by 8 for repair. 9 the family as the property of the church and by 9 10 the church as a place of privacy for the pastor’s 10 In the event of a conflict concerning any issues, 11 family. The chairperson of the Committee on 11 said issues should be presented to the district 12 Pastor-Parish Relations, the chairperson of the 12 superintendent and the Church Location and Building 13 Board of Trustees, and the Pastor shall make an 13 Committee, by any of the parties involved, i.e.: 14 annual review of the church-owned parsonage 14 trustees, SPRC, Parsonage Committee, outgoing and 15 to assure proper maintenance.” (Discipline 2012 15 incoming clergy, for resolution. 16 ¶258.16) 16 17 17 This policy applies also to district parsonages, with 18 c. The Board of Trustees will be directed by the 18 responsibility for implementation belonging to the 19 Charge Conference with respect to the purchase, 19 District Committee on Superintendency and District 20 sale, mortgage, encumbrance, construction, 20 Trustees and the Bishop. This policy also applies to 21 repairing, remodeling, and maintenance of any 21 conference executive housing, with responsibility 22 and all property of the local church. (Note: See 22 for implementation belonging to the Executive 23 The Book of Discipline 2012 Paragraphs 2501- 23 Committee on Housing and the Bishop. 24 2551) 24 25 25 e. Two percent of the cost of replacement of parsonage 26 2. Joint Responsibilities of Churches and Clergy for 26 and furnishings shall be included each year in the 27 Parsonage Maintenance 27 local church’s annual budget. This policy also applies 28 28 to district parsonages and conference executive 29 a. A home expresses character and the condition of the 29 housing. Churches should retain any unused funds to 30 parsonage reflects on the relationship between the 30 apply toward unforeseen emergencies. 31 clergy family and the church. Happy is the pastor 31 32 who can be proud of his/her church for the kind of 32 3. Guidelines for Parsonage Maintenance 33 parsonage provided for his/her use. Happy is the 33 34 church whose parsonage family cares for the house 34 a. Interior and exterior inspections of the parsonage 35 provided for them as good stewards. 35 shall be done annually for maintenance needs. These 36 36 needs are the responsibility of the local church. 37 b. The chairperson of the Staff-Parish Relations 37 Annual responsibilities include: 38 Committee, along with the chairperson of the 38 39 Trustees and the pastor, shall make an annual 39 1) Cleaning windows and storm windows inside and 40 review of church-owned clergy housing within two 40 out 41 months prior to Charge Conference, giving special 41 2) Cleaning the guttering 42 attention to maintenance and updating needs, as 42 3) Checking the heating and cooling system—air 43 well as creating a timeline of when those needs 43 ducts shall be cleaned prior to the arrival of a new 44 will be fulfilled. The annual review of the church- 44 parsonage family. 45 owned clergy housing will be included in an annual 45 4) Cleaning the chimney 46 report to the Charge Conference and the district 46 5) Termite and pest control inspections–if corrective 47 superintendent. 47 measures are needed, taken without delay and 48 48 with professional treatments. The local church 49 c. Thirty days prior to the time a pastoral change occurs 49 assumes the cost for these services. 50 involving a church-owned parsonage, the local church 50 (Suggestion: Scheduling the annual responsibilities 51 Board of Trustees shall make a thorough review 51 for April or May would also meet many 52 of the parsonage, and provide detailed notes regarding 52 requirements for churches receiving new parsonage 53 the condition of the physical property, grounds, 53 families following Annual Conference.) 54 furnishings, needed repairs and updates, and the plans 54 55 to implement needed repairs and updates. These notes 55 b. Local Boards of Trustees, Staff-Parish Relations 56 shall be provided to the incoming pastor for review 56 Committees or the designated Parsonage Committee 57 prior to occupancy. This Trustees’ report, including 57 shall initiate the replacement of church-owned 58 exceptions thereto, will provide basis for determining 58 furniture, appliances, window treatments, carpets, 59 what constitutes ordinary wear and. tear at the time of a 59 etc. when they observe it is needed, rather than 60 succeeding pastoral change. 60 waiting for the family to ask. However, the clergy 23 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 family should ask if it is not done. When the items 1 i. Before a new parsonage family moves into the 2 are to be replaced, the parsonage family should 2 parsonage, the church shall be responsible for: 3 make selections in consultation with the committees 3 4 assuming responsibility for clergy housing. 4 1) Cleaning: gutters, ducts, drapery, carpets, 5 5 windows and storm windows inside and out 6 c. Major renovation, repair and replacement shall 6 2) Chimney sweeping 7 be done by the church as they are needed, taking 7 3) Professional exterminating for pests and termites 8 into consideration the church’s financial situation. 8 4) Re-caulking bathrooms, kitchen, and other tile 9 The pastor, not the church, shall be responsible for 9 areas 10 correcting extreme or unusual damage, beyond 10 5) All mechanical equipment, plumbing, and 11 normal wear and tear, to the parsonage and its 11 appliances to be in proper working order 12 furnishings. Changes of interior decorating shall 12 6) ALL lights and lamps to have working bulbs 13 be done with the mutual consent of the church and 13 14 clergy family. If an appointment change has been 14 j. In case of a long-term pastorate, the above items shall 15 made, the incoming family should be consulted 15 be taken care of periodically. 16 regarding their decorating choices. 16 17 17 k. The church (trustees/parsonage committees) shall 18 d. An inventory of the church-owned furnishings and 18 consult with incoming families on the following items: 19 appliances, with notes taken of the dates of purchase, 19 20 the original costs, where items were purchased, all 20 1) Lock replacements: Replacement costs are the 21 warranties for purchased items, and condition of 21 responsibility of the church. The number of 22 each item shall be compiled and updated annually by 22 keys is to be limited to the Trustees chairperson, 23 the Staff-Parish Relations Committee and the Board 23 although other keys may be shared upon mutual 24 of Trustees or designated Parsonage Committee in 24 agreement of the church and parsonage family. 25 consultation with the clergy family. 25 2) Carpet cleaning: Would the incoming family 26 26 prefer the carpets to be cleaned prior to arrival, or 27 e. A current inventory reflecting replacement needs 27 at a later date chosen by the family? 28 shall be included in the budget annually and 28 3) Decorating choices: The incoming family shall 29 replacements accomplished promptly. 29 be consulted about decorating choices, especially 30 30 regarding wall paint. For a minor cost, freshly 31 f. Parsonage Lawn 31 painted walls in their chosen shades can welcome 32 32 a new parsonage family in a major way! 33 1) Lawn landscaping, maintenance, and care 33 34 involving trees, shrubs, fertilizing, and sprinkler 34 4. Guidelines for Pets in the Parsonage: 35 systems are the responsibility of the church. 35 36 36 If pets are kept inside the parsonage, the following guidelines 37 2) Many churches provide parsonage lawn care in 37 shall be met: 38 conjunction with church lawn services. If this 38 39 is not the case, the church shall provide and 39 a. The church trustees shall be kept informed of any pet 40 maintain a power lawnmower appropriate to 40 inside or outside the parsonage. 41 lawn size and other tools required to maintain 41 42 the lawn with ease. Mutual arrangements 42 b. All damages incurred by any pet shall be the 43 between pastors and churches for lawn care shall 43 responsibility of the pastor. 44 be made to best benefit each and to assist with 44 45 any extenuating circumstances. 45 c. Professional flea and tick management is required. The 46 46 parsonage family shall be responsible for the cost. 47 g. When a church-owned parsonage is equipped with 47 48 unusual appurtenances, such as a swimming pool, the 48 d. If pets are kept inside, the parsonage family shall make 49 church shall be responsible for maintenance. 49 an extra effort to thoroughly clean the parsonage to 50 50 eliminate any evidence of pets having been present, 51 h. The church shall carefully evaluate the overall 51 which includes fleas, ticks, pet hair, pet dander, stains, 52 security of the building and grounds. Attention shall 52 excrements, etc. 53 be paid to screens, secure windows, window and door 53 54 locks, gates and alarm systems. This shall include fire 54 e. Damage to the parsonage incurred by pets is the 55 prevention measures such as an adequate number 55 pastor’s responsibility and shall be reported to the 56 of smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire 56 Trustees and assessed. Payment should be immediate, 57 extinguishers, escape ladders and a fire escape plan. 57 but no later than moving day. 58 When possible, an annual inspection shall be made 58 59 by the fire department and other utility companies. 59 f. In the event of a conflict concerning any of the above 60 60 itemized guidelines, said issues shall be presented to 24 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 the district superintendent and the District Board of 1 c. Meters 2 Church Location and Building by any of the parties 2 3 involved, i.e.: Trustees, SPRC, Parsonage Committee, 3 d. Fuse or switch boxes, circuit breakers, 4 outgoing and incoming clergy, for resolution. 4 and main switch (labeled properly) 5 5 6 5. Guidelines for Smoking 6 e. Size and change intervals for heating 7 7 and cooling filters 8 All parsonages shall be smoke and tobacco free. Any use 8 9 of tobacco inside the parsonage is prohibited but outside 9 f. Perennial plants for all seasons 10 is allowed. 10 11 11 g. Any unusual appliances, equipment, 12 6. Parsonage Furniture 12 alarm systems, or household 13 13 peculiarities (such as attic doors) 14 The clergy family shall be responsible for furniture for the 14 15 following rooms: the family room, up to 3 bedrooms, and 15 h. Attic storage capabilities–dos and 16 the kitchen eating area. These rooms will be furnished at 16 don’t for storing items 17 the pastor’s discretion and expense. If a parsonage has a 17 18 formal living room and dining room, IN ADDITION to a 18 i. Sewer clean-outs 19 family room and a kitchen eating area, the furniture for the 19 20 formal living room and dining room shall be provided by 20 j. Phone numbers to call for 21 the church/charge. 21 emergencies: police, fire, ambulance, 22 22 insurance co., plumbers, utilities and 23 7. Utilities for Clergy Housing 23 other services 24 24 25 All deposits for utilities shall be maintained in the name 25 k. Established church policies for 26 of the church when possible. The utility allowance can be 26 periodic cleaning of carpets, drapes 27 a part of the pastor’s compensation plan. (Utilities include: 27 and especially vent cleaning 28 electric, gas, water, Internet, basic cable, phone and waste 28 29 management.) In the event that the utility allowance is part 29 l. List of businesses that are United 30 of the pastor’s compensation plan the utilities shall be paid 30 Methodist-related and/or able/ 31 in a timely manner. 31 dependable: stores, shopping malls, 32 32 pharmacies, medical personnel, 33 8. Recommendations for Parsonage Insurance 33 schools, etc. 34 34 35 Insurance of real and personal property is the 35 36 responsibility of the owner of the .property. Clergy 36 10. Cleaning Responsibilities for the Exiting Clergy Families 37 families shall secure their own personal insurance. 37 38 38 The following checklist shall be filled out by the clergy 39 9. Recommendations for Keeping Accurate Inventory of 39 family exiting the parsonage after all items listed have been 40 Property 40 completed. Two days prior to the family’s departure, the 41 41 checklist shall be given to the chairperson of the Staff-Parish 42 a. Inventory of parsonage, church-owned furnishings 42 Relations Committee for a final inspection of the parsonage. 43 shall be made annually. 43 A verification report indicating that all standards have been 44 44 met by the exiting family shall be sent to both the district 45 b. An information notebook shall include: 45 superintendent receiving the clergy family and the one 46 46 releasing the clergy family. If there are items of cleanliness 47 1. For each appliance: operating instructions or 47 remaining to be completed, arrangements shall be made with 48 manuals 48 the district superintendent, the congregation, and the exiting 49 2. Repair instructions: Service personnel to call, 49 clergy family before the new clergy family moves into the 50 which church member to contact. It is understood 50 parsonage. 51 that service calls and repairs of major appliances 51 52 owned by the church shall be paid for by the 52 • Dust around ceiling, corners, door moldings, 53 church. 53 window sills and ceiling fans 54 3. Information about location and/or care of the 54 55 following items: 55 • Wash all light globes in ceiling fans, ceiling 56 a. Sprinkler systems 56 lights and lamps 57 57 58 b. Turn-off valves for gas and outside 58 • Clean all baseboards, 59 and inside water 59 moving furniture from walls 60 60 25 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 • Wipe out all drawers, cabinets, 1 1. Minimum Required Standards for Clergy Housing 2 shelves and counters 2 3 3 • Plumbing, heating, and electrical systems 4 • Clean mirrors 4 that meet the building codes of the State of 5 5 Oklahoma. 6 • Dust and polish all furniture 6 7 7 • A safe, dependable water supply. 8 • Clean light switch plates 8 9 9 • A leak-proof roof. 10 • Wipe down walls in bathrooms and kitchens 10 11 11 • Glass in all windows; 12 • Clean floors. Vacuum if carpets are not being 12 all windows in operating condition. 13 cleaned till later 13 14 14 • All utilities available and secured in the 15 • Clean all appliances – stove, oven, microwave, 15 name of the church, when possible, to insure 16 refrigerator, dishwasher, etc. 16 uninterrupted service during a change of 17 17 pastors. 18 • Polish/”liquid gold” all woodwork 18 (Utilities include: electric, gas, water, Internet, 19 19 basic cable, phone and waste management.) 20 • Wash painted-wood cabinets 20 21 21 • Either a septic tank in good working condition, 22 • Clean garage and storage buildings on 22 with adequate drainage area on the property, or 23 parsonage property 23 access to a public sewer system. 24 24 25 • Remove all trash and other 25 • A system that provides drainage away from the 26 recyclable/disposable items 26 home. 27 27 28 • Empty all trash/garbage cans 28 • Two or more outside spigots as a source of 29 29 water for lawn and planting maintenance. 30 • Clean fireplace area 30 31 31 • Storage space for tools, lawnmower, and 32 As a reminder from part III, item I, the church receiving 32 seasonal articles. This may be non-vehicle space 33 a new pastor shall be responsible for the following: 33 in a garage or separate storage building. 34 34 35 • Cleaning: gutters*, ducts* (vents and filters), 35 • A standard-sized energy-efficient washer 36 drapery and window treatments, carpets, 36 and dryer. 37 windows* and storm windows* inside and out 37 38 38 • Window treatments (curtains, draperies, or 39 • Chimney sweeping* 39 mini-blinds) throughout the house to assure 40 40 privacy. 41 • Professional exterminating for pests and 41 42 termites* 42 • Adequate yard space with safe play area for 43 43 small children. 44 • Re-caulking bathrooms, kitchen 44 45 and other tile areas 45 • An energy-efficient refrigerator with a freezer. 46 46 47 • All mechanical equipment, plumbing, and 47 • Excellence in the general physical condition and 48 appliances to be in proper working order* 48 decoration of the home, both inside and out. 49 49 50 • All lights and lamps to have working bulbs 50 • Guttering on the roof. 51 51 52 • Mow, trim and edge yard. 52 • A screen and storm window, or double-pane 53 53 windows, for every operating window. 54 • Clear all sidewalks and porches 54 55 55 • Weather stripping at all exterior doors, 56 *Items also listed under Annual Maintenance requirements 56 including thresholds. 57 at III A. 57 58 58 • Basement walls that are waterproof, if the 59 B. Required Standards for Clergy Housing 59 parsonage has a basement. 60 60 26 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 • Energy-efficient central heating and cooling 1 • Exhaust fans installed in each bathroom. 2 systems, which may include heat pump systems. 2 3 3 • Doorbells installed at each entrance. 4 • A garage or covered carport. Garages shall have 4 5 automatic garage door openers. 5 • A ground floor bedroom and full bath in a two- 6 6 story parsonage. 7 • High-grade tile, linoleum, carpeting, or 7 8 hardwood flooring throughout the house. 8 • Full bath to meet the needs of those with 9 9 special needs 10 • A garbage disposal, if water system permits. 10 11 11 • Complete access for persons with special needs 12 • An energy-efficient automatic dishwasher. 12 including a ramp with a slope, not exceeding 13 13 a 1foot rise for 12 linear feet, an exterior door 14 • A vented kitchen range. 14 which permits 28” clear width when open, and 15 15 a telephone within 48” of the floor. 16 • Sufficient fencing and shrubbery to provide for 16 17 the privacy of the parsonage family and safety 17 • It is recommended that the parsonage living 18 for children and pets. 18 area contain 1800-2200 sq. ft. that shall include 19 19 at least the following areas: formal living room 20 • Removal of trees that threaten house 20 and formal dining room or living/dining room 21 foundation, driveway or walks. 21 combinations. 22 22 23 • Landscaping plants that enhance the 23 • Master bedroom with a full bath. (furnished 24 attractiveness of the home and are of easy 24 by the pastor at the pastor’s discretion and 25 maintenance. 25 expense) 26 26 27 • Smoke/carbon monoxide alarms near sleeping 27 • Two additional bedrooms. (furnished by the 28 and other appropriate areas throughout the 28 pastor at the pastor’s discretion and expense) 29 house. 29 Double or walk-in closets. 30 30 31 • Fire extinguisher accessible to cooking areas. 31 • Bathrooms: (2) Full bath in master bedroom 32 32 and second full bath (accessible to visitors). 33 • Deadbolt locks on all outside doors. 33 34 34 • Family Room (furnished by the pastor at the 35 • Hand railings on all stairs. 35 pastor’s discretion and expense) shall have 36 36 option of closing off room from entertaining 37 • Outdoor safety lighting. 37 area of the house while still being accessible to 38 38 kitchen and bedroom areas. 39 • Fire-retardant window treatments 39 40 throughout the house. 40 • Kitchen worktop space of 10’-14’. 41 41 42 • Safety grab bars appropriately located in bath 42 • Informal Eating Area (Furnished by pastor at 43 areas. 43 pastor’s discretion and expense.) 44 44 45 2. Newly Constructed Parsonages 45 • Utility Room–Extra-large capacity washer and 46 46 dryer. 47 In the event of a newly constructed parsonage, all of the 47 48 Minimum Required Standards shall be met in addition to the 48 • Closets–Additional closets for linens, extra 49 following standards: 49 clothing, cleaning supplies, etc. 50 50 51 • Insulated exterior walls and ceiling; insulated floors 51 • Study–If no study is provided at the church, 52 (if wood suspended above ground); insulated glass, 52 an additional room for study with adequate 53 screens, and entries with storm doors. 53 bookshelves; furnishings and necessary office 54 54 equipment shall be provided, as needed. 55 • Substantial bulk storage space provided in a 55 56 floored attic or in a storage closet accessible 56 Before building, see: 57 from the garage or covered carport. 57 58 58 1.) The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church, 59 • Adequate space ventilation in attic and under 59 2012, ¶2525 - 2551 60 floor (if suspended). 60 27 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 2.) The book, “Parsonage Planning Congregational 1 i. Make as much of the parsonage as possible accessible 2 Development,” National Program Division/General Board 2 to those with special needs. Include a ramp with a 3 of Global Ministries, copyright 1985 by the Office of 3 slope not exceeding 1 foot rise to 12 linear feet, an 4 Architecture, National Program Division, General Board 4 exterior door which permits 28” clear width when 5 of Global Ministries, The United Methodist Church. 5 open, and a telephone within 48” of the floor. 6 It has valuable insights and helps in preparation for 6 7 building a new parsonage. 7 j. Avoid faddish styles and extreme approaches to 8 8 decorating the parsonages. 9 3. Newly Purchased Parsonages 9 10 10 These can become outdated more quickly than the time 11 In the event of a newly purchased parsonage, all 11 it takes to wear them out. It is difficult to convince a 12 minimum required standards for clergy housing must 12 congregation to change these outdated styles when the 13 be met, and it is recommended that churches move 13 product is still usable. It is suggested that congregations 14 toward newly constructed standards. 14 stay with neutral colors and allow residents to 15 15 personalize with their own touches. 16 4. Other Recommendations 16 17 17 Congregations would do well to encourage parsonage 18 The following recommendations are merely 18 families to paint and wallpaper in the home, 19 guidelines for helping congregations discern ways to 19 understanding that if the resident who follows 20 develop a positive environment for clergy families. 20 chooses not to keep the changes, the outgoing family 21 Please remember the following are not requirements for 21 will help restore the parsonage to a neutral color or 22 existing parsonages, but rather will enhance parsonage 22 coordinate with the congregation so that the new 23 life. Congregations undoubtedly will have additional 23 residents can choose their preferences. This will take 24 recommendations to make. 24 cooperation and time in an already packed time 25 25 schedule, but will be helpful to all concerned. 26 Congregations are encouraged to go beyond the 26 27 following suggestions and become true advocates for 27 Personal touches should be chosen so as to lessen the 28 their parsonage families. 28 cost and time needed to restore to a neutral color for 29 29 the new resident. Stay away from dark colors such as 30 a. Provide a freezer. 30 black or bold flowers, etc. 31 31 32 b. Provide a microwave oven. 32 k. Provide a fourth bedroom of equal size to be used 33 33 as each family needs, such as guest room, playroom, 34 c. Provide a safe room. 34 study, etc. 35 35 36 d. Provide large bedroom closets, allowing for 60” 36 C. Conference Housing Committee 37 per person, as well as additional closet space, 37 38 for clothing and storage. The more storage space 38 The Conference Clergy Housing Committee shall be a 39 allowed, the easier it will be for parsonage families 39 committee of the Commission on Equitable Compensation. 40 to live without clutter and time spent in finding 40 This committee shall review policies, standards and guidelines 41 space for everything. Double or walk-in closets are 41 regarding clergy housing at least once every quadrennium, 42 especially helpful. 42 receive annual reports and check lists from the District Board 43 43 of Church Location and Building regarding the implementation 44 e. Provide a utility room for the washer and dryer 44 of the standards and recommendations for needed changes, 45 rather than having it in the garage or the kitchen. A 45 and make a report to the annual conference each year regarding 46 separate space is much more efficient. Also, provide 46 improvements and needs. This Committee will also assist clergy 47 extra-large capacity washers and dryers. This is 47 families in transition to owning their own personal furnishings. 48 especially helpful for families with small children. 48 This committee is to be made up of at least two members 49 49 from each District Board of Church Location and Building 50 f. Provide a family room separate from the living room 50 (one clergy and one laity), the president of the Clergy Spouse 51 so that entertaining can take place, especially for 51 Fellowship, the chairperson of the Commission on Equitable 52 church functions, without interfering with the needs 52 Compensation, the chairperson of the Covenant Family 53 and daily activities of other family members. 53 Committee of the Board of Ordained Ministry (or equivalent), 54 54 and a Cabinet representative. 55 g. Provide two full baths. This helps the daily schedules 55 56 of families considerably. 56 57 57 D. Clergy Housing Responsibilities of the District Board of 58 h. Provide a two-car garage if at all possible. This helps 58 Church Location and Building 59 maintain the quality of cars which saves money in 59 60 the long run. 60 In addition to the responsibilities described in The Book 28 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 of Discipline 2012 (¶2525-2551) the following responsibilities, 1 of Saturday-Sunday weekends). We recognize, however, the 2 pertaining to clergy housing, are recommended: 2 demands of the ministry often make it difficult for a pastor to 3 3 take off two days consecutively. It is, therefore, very important for 4 The District Board of Church Location and Building 4 the pastor and the Pastor-Parish Relations Committee to come to 5 shall, to assure fairness, be the hearing body for disputes 5 an understanding as to days off and compensatory time off. 6 regarding accountability and implementation of Conference 6 7 Parsonage Standards. 7 C. Continuing Formation and Spiritual Growth 8 8 9 The District Board of Church Location and Building 9 The United Methodist Church requires all pastors to 10 shall annually provide a list of .improvements made and 10 receive three Continuing Education Units (3 CEUs = 30 11 outstanding needs of parsonages in their district to the 11 classroom hours) per year. The Pastor-Parish Relations 12 Conference Clergy Housing Committee. 12 Committee must understand this is a requirement and allow 13 13 the pastor to be absent in order to satisfy it (normally this 14 The District Board of Church Location and Building 14 will not involve a Sunday). However, frequent or extended 15 shall, along with the district superintendent, be advocates for 15 absences of the pastor must be approved by the Pastor-Parish 16 maintaining the high quality of parsonage standards in the 16 Relations Committee. The pastor and the Pastor-Parish 17 district as defined in the Conference Housing Policy. 17 Relations Committee should be familiar with ¶351 of the 18 18 2012 Book of Discipline, which outlines: 1) the importance of 19 Where possible and appropriate, the Board shall seek 19 continuing formation and spiritual growth; 2) allowance for 20 materials and volunteer labor to assure compliance with the 20 leaves of at least one week each year and at least one month 21 parsonage standards and policies of the Oklahoma Annual 21 during one year of each quadrennium; 3) that a clergy member 22 Conference. 22 may request a formational and spiritual growth leave of up to 23 23 six months, while continuing to hold a pastoral appointment— 24 E. Office Space for Clergy 24 if the clergy member has held full-time appointments for at 25 25 least five years; 4) financial arrangements for such leave; 5) 26 Most churches provide a furnished office or study in 26 pastors shall be asked by the district superintendent in the 27 the church. If an office is not provided, the church/charge is 27 charge conference to report on their programs of continuing 28 responsible for parsonage office furnishings. 28 education, formation, and spiritual growth for the past year 29 29 and their plans for the coming year. The superintendent shall 30 III. Guidelines for Vacations, Days Off, 30 also ask the local church to describe its provision for time 31 and Continuing Education 31 and financial support for the pastor’s program of continuing 32 32 formation and spiritual growth; 6) clergy in appointments 33 We believe that it is essential for the Pastor-Parish Relations 33 beyond the local church shall give evidence in the annual 34 Committee and the pastor to negotiate together an agreement 34 reports of their continuing formation and spiritual growth 35 as to the pastor’s vacation, days off, and Continuing Education. 35 program and future plans. 36 Such an agreement should be made during the pastor’s first 36 37 month at a new charge and be reviewed annually thereafter. 37 D. Responsibilities within the United Methodist 38 We offer the following guidelines as a basis for such 38 Connection 39 negotiations: 39 40 40 Pastor-Parish Relations Committees should be aware that 41 A. Vacations 41 pastors are not only appointed to serve local churches, but also 42 42 have responsibilities within the connection: in camps, in the 43 The church recognizes that regular days off and vacations 43 district, in the annual conference, in the life of the orders, and 44 are important for the effectiveness of pastors, and for their 44 occasionally in the general church. Time away from the charge 45 physical, mental, and spiritual health. Therefore, full-time 45 for these purposes is not to be considered as vacation. Refer to 46 pastors shall receive 4 weeks of paid vacation, which includes 46 ¶s (339-342) of the 2012 Book of Discipline for further duties 47 four Sundays. These days may be taken consecutively or on 47 of a pastor. 48 separate occasions. The dates should be coordinated with and 48 49 approved by the Pastor-Parish Relations Committee. Pastors who 49 Greg Tolle, chairperson 50 are working on their Course of Study and attending seminary 50 Lisa Watson, secretary 51 for one month during the summer must realize the burden 51 52 52 this may put on their church. We recommend they receive two COMMISSION ON ARCHIVES AND HISTORY 53 weeks of vacation (one Sunday), in addition to the time away 53 54 for Course of Study. The pulpit funds should be provided by the 54 The Commission of Archives and History has continued 55 church, but the minister is responsible for arrangements. 55 to collect, save, catalog and make available the documents 56 56 and material of the Oklahoma Conference for the future. It 57 B. Days Off 57 is available as a resource for those who want to learn more 58 58 about the history of their church—as well as the pastors, 59 We strongly recommend each pastor receive two days 59 missionaries and notable persons who have helped to shape 60 off per week and encourage a two-day schedule (equivalent 60 our Conference. 29 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 One of the ways the Commission have done this is to host Commission members have also presented workshops at district 2 a workshop for church historians at Wesley UMC, Oklahoma laity meetings, but because of changes in the districts, this year 3 City on January 24, 2015. Church historians are encouraged that was not done. The Commission has also been working with 4 to contact the archives at any time if they have any problem the districts to ensure historic materials are sent to the archives 5 or have questions on what they need to save and store. collections. 6 7 The commission has also been assisting members of throughout the 1800s until statehood. We will also look at 8 the Conference in conducting oral history interviews. This relationship between the Conference and the Oklahoma Indian 9 project will help churches document historical milestones Missionary Conference in the 1900s. 10 and anniversaries, promote their missions and ministries, and 11 publicize church initiatives. The video equipment is for loan to Stillwater-First UMC has been designated as an historic 12 United Methodist who are interested in recording interviews site last year at Annual Conference. Also the Commission 13 by contacting Christina Wolf at [email protected]. is working with OKC-First UMC because of its creation as a 14 ‘89er’ church and the effect the 1995 Murrah bombing had on 15 The commission has begun work on a series of short the church. Other churches have expressed an interest and will 16 videos dealing with the actions Methodists have had with our be working with the Commission for inclusion as historic sites 17 Native American co-religionists, from the beginnings of our in the future. 18 Conference with the removal from their homes to what is 19 now Oklahoma by missionaries,who worked with the tribes John Beckman, chairperson 20 21 CONFERENCE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE OKLAHOMA CONFERENCE 22 OF THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, INC. 23 24 List of actions approved by the Board of Trustees on behalf of the 25 Oklahoma Conference between May 1, 2014 – April 30, 2015 26 27 County Legal Description/Property Document Date signed 28 29 Ellis 10-17N-22W Division Order 06/19/2014 30 31 Ellis 29-19N-25W Oil & Gas Lease 06/19/2014 32 33 Muskogee Wesley UMC - Block 3 of Grandview Heights, 6th Addition General Warranty Deed 10/13/2014 34 35 Grady 17-3N-8W Oil & Gas Lease 11/04/2014 36 37 Grady 17-3N-8W Pasture Lease 01/02/2015 38 39 Canadian 29-12N-8W Oil & Gas Lease 02/21/2015 40 41 Kingfisher 23-19N-8W Division Order 02/21/2015 42 43 The Oklahoma Annual Conference approved minimum types and limits of coverage required to protect local churches from 44 the risks of loss in the areas of property, liability and worker’s compensation insurance in 2010. Those minimum limits are: 45 46 Coverage...... Minimum Limits 47 Property...... Replacement Cost 48 Sexual Misconduct...... $1,000,000 49 General Liability...... $1,000,000 50 Crime (Employee and Volunteer Dishonesty...... $100,000 51 Worker’s Compensation-Employer’s Liability...... $1,000,000 52 Directors’ and Officers’ Liability...... $1,000,000 53 Automobile (Hired and Non-Owned Coverage) ...... $1,000,000 54 Excess Liability Coverage...... $5,000,000 55 56 The Conference Insurance and Risk Management program is being managed by HUB International / CFR, 57 5314 S Yale, Suite 900, Tulsa, OK 74135. 58 59 The Oklahoma Annual Conference approved a mandatory Worker’s Compensation program for all conference churches 60 30 Administrative Services Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 effective on or after their policy renewal date of Sept. 15, 1 The Agency Emergency/Capital Fund committee 2 2013. Churches that have signed up for this coverage continue 2 understands itself to be a source of last appeal for funds 3 to see a reduction in their premiums. 3 for the agencies of the annual conference. When an agency 4 4 has secured all possible funds to meet an emergency or 5 Although local churches are allowed to purchase 5 opportunity but is lacking in sufficient money to complete 6 coverage, excluding Worker’s Comp, outside the conference 6 its project, it may appropriately appeal to the AECF for 7 program, they are required to provide their District 7 consideration. Only Annual Conference Agencies are eligible 8 Superintendents with a copy of their policies’ declaration 8 to apply which includes the Campus Ministries. 9 pages at their annual charge conference. This requirement has 9 10 not changed since 2010. 10 Note: all Campus Ministry requests must have the 11 11 approval of the Conference Board of Higher Education and 12 William A Gossett, chairperson 12 Campus Ministry before they are considered by the committee. 13 13 14 AGENCY EMERGENCY / CAPITAL FUND 14 The 2014 requests and amounts were: 15 COMMITTEE 15 16 16 Balance Forward from 2013...... $167,582.77 The Agency Emergency/Capital funds are used to Apportionments...... 60,454.84 17 provide assistance to agencies of the Annual Conference 17 18 18 that have property emergencies or opportunities. Most of Grants 19 the requests are for emergency repairs but we also help the 19 20 20 Camps...... 18,000 agencies with new building opportunities and expansions Total Grants for 2012...... 18,000 21 as well. The presence of this fund means that the agencies of 21 22 22 the Conference are not required to accumulate and maintain Ending Balance for 2014...... $210,037.61 23 excessive reserves in order to deal with emergencies and 23 24 opportunities and can, instead, devote more of their 24 25 resources to programming than they would otherwise be 25 Cara Nicklas, Chairperson 26 able to do. 26 27 27 28 28 29 Notes: 29 30 30 31 ______31 32 32 33 ______33 34 34 35 ______35 36 36 37 ______37 38 38 39 ______39 40 40 41 ______41 42 42 43 ______43 44 44 45 ______45 46 46 47 ______47 48 48 49 ______49 50 50 51 ______51 52 52 53 ______53 54 54 55 ______55 56 56 57 ______57 58 58 59 59 60 60 31 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 REPORT NO. 1 2 PENSION BENEFITS 3

4 5 PART A: Requiring action by the Annual Conference 6 The Conference Board of Pension & Health Benefits, Inc. recommends the following: 7 8 9 1. Participation in the Clergy Retirement Security Plan & the Comprehensive Protection Plan 10 Therefore Be It Resolved: 11 A. That in 2016 the Oklahoma Annual Conference participate in the Clergy Retirement Security Plan (CRSP) as adopted by the 12 2012 General Conference. The 2 components of CRSP are the Defined Benefit (DB) and the Defined Contribution (DC). The 13 Defined Benefit (DB) will be funded at flat rate of $3000 per clergy per charge plus 4% of the pastor’s total billable 14 compensation up to 1.5 times the Denominational Average Compensation. The Defined Contribution (DC) will be funded at 15 3% of the clergy’s total billable compensation. 2% of the Defined Contribution (DC) will be automatically distributed to the 16 Clergy’s account. In addition, 1% of the clergy’s total billable compensation will be funded to the clergy’s Defined 17 Contribution account when the clergy contribute an expected 1% of their total billable compensation in the United Methodist 18 Personal Investment Plan (UMPIP) program; and 19 20 B. Participation in the Clergy Retirement Security Plan (CRSP) as adopted by the 2012 General Conference will be for Full- 21 Time, 100% appointed clergy only. 22 C. That in 2016 the Oklahoma Annual Conference continues to participate in the Comprehensive Protection Plan (CPP) at 3% 23 of the pastor’s total billable compensation up to two times the Denominational Average Compensation; and 24 D. That eligible clergy on sabbatical or deacons on transitional leave shall continue to participate in CPP for 1 year; and 25 E. That eligible clergy on Personal, Family, or Involuntary Leave or appointed to less than full-time or who are receiving a total 26 billable compensation that is less than 60% of the Denominational Average Compensation may continue to participate in CPP at 27 his/her own cost for 1 year; and 28 F. That in 2016 all clergy appointed less than full time (25%, 50%, or 75%) in the Oklahoma Annual Conference will participate 29 in the United Methodist Personal Investment Plan (UMPIP) program. The United Methodist Personal Investment Plan 30 (UMPIP) will be funded at 10% of the pastor’s total billable compensation and will be paid by the charge. 31 G. Clergy shall be defined as all Active Elders, Deacons, Associate Members, & Local Pastors under appointment. 32 H. Billable Compensation shall consist of base compensation plus housing allowance or parsonage factor of 25% of total base 33 compensation. 34 I. That in 2016 the Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church will bill the local churches and participating 35 ministries for a combined bill for pension benefits for all clergy; and 36 J. That in 2016 the Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church will bill the local churches and participating 37 ministries for the United Methodist Personal Investment Plan (UMPIP) program. 38 K. The Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits, Inc. is authorized to make changes in the pension plan funding 39 between Annual Conference sessions when such changes are necessary to properly fund the plan. 40 41 42 2. Local Church and Participating Ministries’ Obligation to Make Pension Plan Contributions for Their Pastor(s) Pension 43 Benefits have been legally determined to be deferred compensation. 44 45 (This resolution shall be a part of the stated business of every Charge Conference and is to be read in the presence of the 46 members of the Charge Conference) 47 48 Therefore Be It Resolved: 49 A. That the local church or participating ministry does hereby accept the full ethical, moral and legal responsibility for the 50 payment in full of pension obligations (CRSP-DB, CRSP-DC, UMPIP, and CPP, if enrolled) for the pastor appointed to the 51 local church or participating ministry; and 52 B. That the local church or participating ministry will pay the pension obligation by the 1st of each month; and 53 C. That the local church or participating ministry understands that failure to pay the pension obligation in full will be reported 54 to the Bishop and Cabinet by the Treasurer’s Office on a regular basis. 55

56 57 58 59 60 32 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 3. Past Service Annuity Rate and Funding: 2 Past Service is that service rendered prior to January 1, 1982, by Ordained Clergy members and Full-Time Local Pastors, which 3 has been approved for pension credit. Funding for past service pension credit is provided by income from pension endowment 4 funds and the Pension 5 Fund Crusade account. 6 7 Therefore Be It Resolved: 8 A. That the 2016 Past Service Annuity Rate (PSR) for pre-1982 approved service rendered by Ordained Ministers and Full-Time 9 Local Pastors be set at $656.00. 10 B. That the rate for Surviving Spouses be set at 75% of the PSR. 11 That our unfunded liability for pre-1982 years of service be amortized over a 6-year period with a projected payout in 2021. 12 4. Rental/Housing Allowance for Retired or Disabled Ministers of The Oklahoma Conference: 13 14 Whereas, the religious denomination known as The United Methodist Church (the “Church”), of which this Conference is a part, 15 has in the past functioned and continues to function through ministers of the gospel (within the meaning of Internal Revenue 16 Code section 107) who are duly ordained, commissioned, or licensed ministers of the Church (“Clergypersons”); and 17 Whereas, the practice of the Church and of this Conference was and is to provide active Clergypersons with a parsonage or a 18 rental/housing allowance as part of the gross compensation; and 19 Whereas, pensions or other amounts paid to retired and disabled Clergypersons are considered to be deferred compensation and 20 are paid to retired and disabled Clergypersons in consideration of previous active service; and 21 Whereas, the Internal Revenue Service has recognized the Oklahoma Annual Conference as the appropriate organization to 22 designate a rental/housing allowance for retired and disabled Clergypersons who are members of this Conference; 23 24 Therefore Be It Resolved: 25 A. An amount equal to 100% of the pension or disability payments received during the year of 2016 by each retired or disabled 26 Clergyperson who is or was a member of the Oklahoma Conference at the time of his or her retirement or last service is 27 hereby designated as a rental/housing allowance for each such Clergyperson; 28 B. This rental/housing allowance shall apply to each Clergyperson who in 2016 receives retirement plan or disability plan 29 benefits described below; and 30 C. The pension payment to which this rental/housing allowance applies shall be any pension or disability payments, whether 31 paid by a plan sponsored by this Conference or the Church, by a commercial annuity company, or otherwise, that results 32 from any service a Clergyperson rendered to this Conference or that a retired or disabled Clergyperson of this Conference 33 rendered to any local church, Annual Conference of the Church, general agency of the Church, other institution of the 34 Church, former denomination that is now a part of the Church, or any other employer that employed the Clergyperson to 35 36 perform services related to the ministry of the Church and that elected to make contributions to, or accrue a benefit under, a 37 plan, annuity, or fund for such retired or disabled Clergyperson’s pension or disability as part of his or her gross 38 compensation. 39 40 NOTE: 41 The amount of rental/housing allowance that may be excluded from a Clergyperson’s gross income in any year for federal income tax 42 purposes is limited to the least of: (1) the amount of the rental/housing allowance designated by the Clergyperson’s employer or other 43 appropriate body of the Church (such as this Conference in the foregoing resolutions) for such year; (2) the amount actually expended 44 by the Clergyperson to rent or provide a home in such year; or (3) the fair rental value of the home, including furnishings and 45 appurtenances (such as a garage), plus the cost of utilities in such year. 46 47 5. Persons Applying For Disability Benefits: 48 Therefore Be It Resolved: 49 That persons applying for disability benefits will have up to ninety (90) days after cabinet notification to the Conference Benefits 50 Officer and the Joint Committee on Medical Leave and to provide required documentation of stated incapacity leave to the 51 General Board of Pension and Health Benefits. During the time that the General Board of Pension and Health Benefits is acting on 52 the request for disability benefits, but not to exceed a period of ninety (90) days, the Conference Board of Pensions and Health 53 Benefits, Inc. will provide disability benefits. A special appeal for extended disability benefits may be made to the Conference 54 Board of Pension and Health Benefits, Inc. by the applicant if the ninety-day deadline cannot be met. 55 56 57 58 59 60 33 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 6. Disciplinary Question: The Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits, Inc. recommends: 2 A. The service record of Bradley Humphrey to be corrected to reflect a Provision Elder appointed to Davis as of June 1st, 1975. 3 4 PART B: Status of Pension Accounts & Unfunded Past Service Liability 5 The Pension Fund Crusade Account had a balance of $15,040,402 as of January 1, 2015. This represents a decrease in the Pension 6 Fund Crusade Account of $4,031,214 from one year ago. The total minimum cash flow requirement at the end of 2014 was 7 $1,834,055 which was paid from the principal and interest of the Pension Fund Crusade Account and interest from endowment 8 funds. In addition to the total minimum cash flow requirement, an advance contribution of $388,615 was paid due to a 2% 9 increase of the Past Service Rate in 2015 as required by the Book of Discipline. 10 A comprehensive funding plan of all assets and liabilities as well as the General Board of Pension and Health Benefits’ opinion is 11 available upon request from the Conference Treasurer’s Office. 12 13 14 A history of the Oklahoma Conference Unfunded Past Service Liability: 15 16 Conference Past Service Minimum Funded Pension Fund 17 Year CAC Rate Contribution Status Crusade Acct Balance 18 19 1982 17,026 145 938,249 (16,099,513) 20 1983 18,819 156 1,006,910 (14,926,050) 1,351,680 (13,574,370) 21 1984 19,814 169 1,132,567 (16,544,341) 4,832,831 (11,711,510) 22 1985 21,383 200 1,281,826 (18,326,505) 6,901,155 (11,425,350) 23 1986 22,818 210 1,376,787 (19,451,395) 8,587,930 (10,863,465) 24 1987 24,703 230 1,499,680 (20,891,172) 9,463,638 (11,427,534) 25 1988 26,957 243 1,615,196 (22,234,433) 10,545,800 (11,688,633) 26 1989 26,494 243 1,413,062 (19,076,913) 11,152,154 (7,924,759) 27 28 1990 27,147 255 1,511,159 (20,157,855) 12,264,942 (7,892,913) 29 1991 27,787 268 1,598,828 (20,004,728) 13,392,051 (6,612,677) 30 1992 29,938 288 1,766,655 (21,766,324) 14,366,701 (7,399,623) 31 1993 31,887 319 1,987,348 (23,392,705) 14,616,162 (8,776,543) 32 1994 33,343 333 2,087,497 (24,213,915) 15,177,778 (9,036,137) 33 1995 35,070 351 2,492,268 (24,096,702) 15,119,342 (8,977,360) 34 1996 37,966 365 2,811,095 (24,405,919) 16,236,829 (8,169,090) 35 1997 38,292 370 2,535,934 (22,663,257) 16,646,151 (6,017,106) 36 37 1998 38,629 374 2,729,961 (21,659,718) 18,507,580 (3,152,138) 38 1999 39,316 380 3,033,417 (20,087,740) 19,734,940 (352,800) 39 2000 40,789 394 2,970,669 (17,411,335) 20,189,072 2,777,737 40 2001 42,312 409 1,520,567 (18,329,821) 21,361,304 3,031,483 41 2002 43,222 422 1,797,940 (20,588,000) 21,657,893 1,069,893 42 2003 45,059 439 2,130,291 (20,458,463) 21,143,160 684,697 43 2004 51,163 460.50 1,397,349 (15,252,143) 19,983,274 4,731,131 44 2005 52,358 475 1,446,978 (15,003,265) 21,362,238 6,358,973 45 2006 53,713 500 1,351,305 (15,337,293) 22,116,803 6,779,510 46 47 2007 56,081 525 1,083,491 (12,752,378) 23,612,268 10,859,890 48 2008 57,178 546 1,434,915 (14,839,761) 24,506,351 9,666,590 49 2009 59,456 568 1,359,313 (12,575,142) 16,433,992 3,858,850 50 2010 61,314 580 1,325,255 (11,722,207) 18,968,248 7,246,041 51 2011 62,968 592 2,351,494 (17,829,335) 20,343,956 2,514,621 52 2012 64,542 604 2,006,045 (15,598,863) 17,032,161 1,433.298 53 2013 66,277 617 1,772,289 (14,035,301) 18,158,391 4,123.090 54 2014 67,731 630 1,834,055 (13,336,249) 19,071,616 5,735,367 55 56 2015 70,468 643 1,854,809 (10,333,291) *18,603,497 8,270,206 57 58 *INCLUDES DEPOSIT ACCOUNT BALANCE WITH GENERAL BOARD OF PENSION & HEALTH BENEFITS 59 60 34 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 REPORT NO. 2 2 ACTIVE HEALTH BENEFITS 3

4 5 FOR INFORMATION: Our Health Benefits program operates in a financially conservative manner while, at the same time, trying to 6 meet the needs of our participants. We believe that our participants also are increasingly conservative in the demands that they make 7 on the plan assets. With the implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Health Care Act, the Conference Board of 8 Pensions & Health Benefits is required in 2016 to meet several new requirements and recommends the following changes to the health 9 care plan in 2016. 10 11 REQUIRING ACTION 12 13 1. The Conference Board of Pensions & Health Benefits recommends that effective January 1st, 2016, the Conference Board of 14 Pensions & Health Benefits will continue to offer a both a “Standard” and “Basic” Medical Plan, available to all eligible 15 participants. The details of the “Standard” and “Basic” plans including premium and rate structures for both of these plans 16 are listed in the report below. 17 2. The Conference Board of Pensions & Health Benefits recommends that on January 1st, 2016 charges that have an appointed 18 full time clergy will be direct billed an annual per clergy share to offset the continued reduction of the Active Clergy Medical 19 Apportionment. In 2016, the annual per clergy share shall be $4,860 per appointed full time clergy, appointed to the charge. 20 Charges that do not have a full time clergy appointed will not be required to make this contribution. 21 3. The Conference Board of Pensions & Health Benefits recommends that on January 1st, 2016, clergy premiums for employee 22 only coverage for the “Standard” Medical Plan will be remain at the approved 2015 amounts, which are listed in detail below. 23 4. The Conference Board of Pensions & Health Benefits recommends that on January 1st, 2016, the Active Clergy Health Fund 24 Apportionment will be established at $640,000. 25 st 26 5. The Conference Board of Pensions & Health Benefits recommends that on January 1 , 2016, all active full time clergy enrolled 27 in the Standard plan will be eligible to participate in a comprehensive wellness program designed to improve the overall 28 health of participants. Clergy enrolled in the Basic plan are not eligible to participate. Full-Time Active Clergy will qualify 29 for reduced monthly insurance rates by participating in the health screening at Annual Conference or at a designated 30 screening site. Clergy will receive a $10 per month discount for participating in the health screening. In addition, clergy will 31 receive a $10 per month discount per each goal met, for a possible total of $60 per month in discounts. The participation and 32 goals are as listed below: 33 34 Category Goal 35 36 1. Walking Program Average 5000 steps a month per day for measurement period of 6/1/2015 thru 10/17/2015 37 2. Blood Pressure 140/90 38 3. HbA1c <6.5 or <7.1 for known diabetic 39 4. Total Cholesterol/HDL 5.0 or less# 40 5. Body Mass Index <30 41 42 The Conference Board of Pensions & Health Benefits has established this plan to keep faith with our churches and participants who 43 clearly understand that we intend to collect only what we need to pay expenses. 44 45 The Oklahoma Conference Health Benefits Plan is a self-funded medical and prescription plan for eligible active clergy, local pastors, 46 & lay employees of the Local church or agency. The Health Benefits Plan is not a form of entitlement, and it should be noted that the 47 Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits Inc., with the approval of Annual Conference, reserves the right to amend or 48 possibly eliminate the active medical plan. 49 50 Notes: 51 52 ______53 54 ______55 56 ______57 58 ______59 60 ______35 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 THE 2016 PLAN: The Oklahoma Conference Health Benefits Plan includes: 2 3 A. Two separate self-funded medical plans, “Standard” & “Basic”, available for all full time active clergy, local pastors, lay 4 employees, non Medicare eligible retirees, and surviving spouses under 65 years of age, administered by BlueCross BlueShield. 5 B. The Kempton Group will continue to administer our eligibility, Flexible Benefit Plan and HRA. 6 C. Drugs or medicines prescribed by a physician or practitioner may be filled at any pharmacy participating in a pharmacy 7 network that is approved by the Oklahoma Conference Board of Pension & Health Benefits. 8 D. Group term life insurance with Aetna Life Insurance Co. for active clergy who are participants in the Conference Health 9 Benefits Plan. 10 E. Funding for the Plan in the year 2016 is to come from participant premiums, per clergy church shares, operating funds, as 11 well as an Active Clergy Health Fund apportionment to the churches based upon the prevailing Conference decimal. 12 F. The Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits is authorized to make substantive changes in the Health Benefits Plan 13 between Annual Conference sessions when such changes are necessary to properly manage this Plan. 14 G. All active clergy members (Full, Provisional, and Associate) of the Oklahoma Annual Conference and Local Pastors who are 15 appointed full-time and who are participating in the Clergy Retirement Security Plan (CRSP) shall participate in the 16 Ministers’ Health Benefits Plan, subject to the provisions of the plan. Active clergy members who qualify for health insurance 17 through military retirement or other government agencies may request approval from the Board of Pension and Health 18 19 Benefits to opt out of the Conference Health Benefits Plan. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis. 20 H. All charges that have full time active clergy under appointment in 2016 shall pay an annual per clergy share of $4,860.00 per 21 appointed full time clergy, the Active Clergy Health Fund Apportionment, and the Retired Clergy Health Fund 22 Apportionment fund as a Ministerial Support item. 23 I. All charges that do not have full time active clergy under appointment in 2016 shall pay the Active Clergy Health Fund 24 Apportionment and the Retired Clergy Health Fund Apportionment fund as a Ministerial Support item. 25 26 SELF-FUNDED MEDICAL PLAN FOR ACTIVE AND NON MEDICARE ELIGIBLE RETIRED CLERGY, LOCAL PASTORS, & 27 LAITY: 28 29 1. Eligibility and Enrollment: Enrollment in the Oklahoma Conference Health Benefits 30 Plan is executed through the Conference Treasurer’s Office. Clergy must enroll within 31 days of becoming eligible (Standing 31 Rules, IV. Financial, 4.). All other employees and their dependents have 31 days, after they become eligible, to enroll. If you or 32 your dependents are not enrolled within 31 days of the date you become eligible, you will not be able to enroll until January 1 of 33 the next plan year. 34

35 A. Those that are eligible for enrollment in the Group Health Plan are as follows: 36 1. Clergy who are members of the Oklahoma Annual Conference (elders and deacons, associate and provisional), full-time 37 38 local pastors under appointment and enrolled in the Clergy Retirement Security Plan (CRSP), ordained clergy appointed 39 under the provisions of Par. 346.1 or 346.2 of the 2012 Book of Discipline, and their eligible dependents. Also, members 40 appointed to attend school or those who receive their first appointment with pension benefit after having a special 41 appointment without pension benefit and their eligible dependents. 42 2. Diaconal ministers under appointment serving full-time, at least thirty hours a week in local churches, institutions, or 43 agencies of this Annual Conference qualify for enrollment as lay employees. 44 3. Clergy couples and Local Pastor couples who are qualified for enrollment as ministers have the option to either enroll in 45 the plan separately or they can decide which one will enroll as the primary participant, carrying medical insurance for all 46 dependents, including the spouse. If both are licensed local pastors or ordained and serving full-time under appointment 47 in the Oklahoma Conference, both shall be enrolled in the Life Insurance portion with $50,000 death benefits; however, 48 the spouse who is covered as the dependent will not be eligible to collect the dependent life insurance amount in addition 49 to the clergy benefit amount. 50 4. Full-time lay employees of a local church, institution, or agency of this Annual Conference certified by their executive 51 officer to the Conference Treasurer’s Office as working thirty (30) hours a week and as making at least the minimum 52 wage per hour may enroll in the Medical Plan. 53 5. Clergy participating in the Voluntary Transition Program, as a part of the Comprehensive Protection Plan are eligible for 54 coverage in the health benefits plan. The Conference Board of Pensions & Health Benefits will pay the employer portion 55 56 57 58 59 60 36 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 of Health Benefits during the program. If continuation of coverage is not available, the Conference Board of Pensions 2 and Health Benefits will provide a stipend to go towards the cost of reasonable Health Care. 3 B. You must enroll within the first thirty-one (31) days after becoming eligible. 4 C. After the initial thirty-one (31) days, those eligible for enrollment may apply for coverage but will be required to wait until 5 January 1 of the next plan year before coverage can begin. Special Enrollment Provisions may allow for enrollment 6 exceptions. 7 D. If an eligible participant has coverage under another plan, then loses that coverage, the participant may then enroll, under the 8 Special Enrollment Provisions only, in the Conference Group Plan. Otherwise, the participant must wait until January 1 of 9 the next plan year to enroll. 10 E. When a participant terminates employment with the Conference or a qualifying agency, or otherwise becomes ineligible for 11 coverage under this Plan, he/she may continue in the current plan that he or she was previously enrolled in prior to 12 termination of employment for up to 18 months at the full lay rate. 13 F. When a minister is on Disability Leave, his/her insurance coverage will continue uninterrupted, at the clergy rate, provided 14 such minister has been a participant in the plan prior to going on Disability Leave. Once the minister on Disability Leave 15 becomes Medicare eligible, they will be moved off of the self funded medical plan and provided a Health Reimbursement 16 Account (HRA) subsidy to help purchase a Medicare Supplement Plan thru One Exchange. HRA Funding rules are 17 described below in detail in report #3. Minister’s approved for Disability leave who have opted out of Social Security and are 18 not eligible for Medicare are not eligible to remain on the plan once Disability is approved. 19 20 G. When a minister takes a Leave of Absence or is placed on Leave of Absence, he/she may continue in the Plan for up to 18 21 months at the lay rate of the current plan that he or she was previously enrolled in prior to taking a Leave of Absence. 22 H. When a clergy member or local pastor is on Transitional Leave, he/she may continue in the Plan for up to 18 months at the 23 clergy rate of the current plan that he or she was previously enrolled in prior to going on Transitional Leave. 24 I. When clergy or local pastors are granted a sabbatical leave or are appointed to attend school, his/her insurance coverage may 25 continue at the clergy rate, provided premiums are paid, of the current plan that he or she was previously enrolled in prior to 26 going on Leave or attending school. 27 J. When a clergy or local pastor member is in the Extension Ministry (sponsored by an external source other than a contributor 28 to the Oklahoma Conference) he/she may continue in the Plan at the lay rate of the current plan that he or she was previously 29 enrolled in prior to going to the Extension Ministry. 30 K. Children/dependents are eligible to be enrolled at the same time the clergy or lay employee enrolls. Children may also be 31 enrolled at birth or at the point of adoption; however, unless they are enrolled within thirty-one (31) days after 32 birth/adoption, they are not covered and cannot be added until January 1 of the next plan year. The following children may 33 be covered as dependents: (1) a child under age 26. In the case of an adopted child, coverage will take effect on the date the 34 adoption is final or the date the child is placed in the employee’s home, whichever first occurs. The term “dependent” does 35 not include an employee, a member of any armed forces (except if an active-duty member for thirty (30) days or less per 36 year), or any person who has permanent residence outside the U.S.A. 37 L. It is the responsibility of the participant to notify the Treasurer’s Office of any change in the eligibility and/or enrollment of 38 any member of his/her family. This includes dependents that are no longer eligible for coverage and the enrollment of 39 newborn babies within thirty-one (31) days following the date of birth. 40 41 2. Effective Date and Conditions of Coverage: 42 Your coverage will take effect on the later of: 43 A. Your eligibility date, or on the 44 B. First day of the month following the return of your signed enrollment form to the Benefits Office. 45 3. Comprehensive Medical Benefits: 46 Covered medical expenses means the usual, customary, and reasonable (UCR) expenses incurred by or on behalf of a covered 47 person for the hospital or other medical services that meet the following criteria: 48 A. Ordered by a physician; 49 B. Medically necessary for the treatment of the illness or injury; 50 C. Not of a luxury or personal nature; and 51 D. Not excluded under Exclusions and Limitations sections of the Plan. 52 4. Preferred Provider Organizations: (PPO): 53 The “Basic” and “Standard” Plan provides network benefits for active participants through BlueCross Blue Shield. 54 5. Comprehensive Wellness Program: 55 56 continued on page 38 57 58 59 60 37 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 The Conference Board of Pensions & Health Benefits recommends that on January 1st, 2016, all active full time clergy enrolled in 2 the Standard plan will be eligible to participate in a comprehensive wellness program designed to improve the overall health of 3 participants. Clergy enrolled in the Basic plan are not eligible to participate. Full-Time Active Clergy will qualify for reduced 4 monthly insurance rates by participating in the health screening at Annual Conference or at a designated screening site. Clergy 5 will receive a $10 per month discount for participating in the health screening. In addition, clergy will receive a $10 per month 6 discount per each goal met, for a possible total of $60 per month in discounts. The participation and goals are as listed below: 7 8 Category Goal 9 10 1. Walking Program Average 5000 steps a month per day for measurement period of 6/1/2015 thru 10/17/2015 11 2. Blood Pressure 140/90 12 3. HbA1c <6.5 or <7.1 for known diabetic 13 4. Total Cholesterol/HDL 5.0 or less# 14 5. Body Mass Index <30 15 16 17 This wellness plan will be administered by solely Personal Health Partners. Test results for clergy who participate in the annual health 18 screening administered at the Annual Oklahoma Conference will be submitted automatically. Clergy who do not participate in the 19 health screening at Annual Conference may have a screening performed at the Personal Health Partners Office in Tulsa or Oklahoma 20 City. The deadline for completing a screening with Personal Health Partners will be October 17th, 2015. Health screenings performed 21 th, 22 after October 17 2015 will not count toward participation in the wellness plan in 2016 and no discounts will be applied. 23 24 Notes: continued on page 39 25 26 ______27 28 ______29 30 ______31 32 ______33 34 ______35 36 ______37 38 ______39 40 ______41 42 ______43 44 ______45 46 ______47 48 ______49 50 ______51 52 ______53 54 ______55 56 ______57 58 ______59 60 ______38 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church Self-Funded Medical Plan 2 Comparison of Active or Under 65 Medical Plan Benefits for 2016 3 * Full plan document at www.okumc.org/benefits or contact the Conference Benefits Office. 4 Checks will go to participants if out of network. Participants will then pay the provider. 5

6 Standard PPO Basic PPO Medical Plans Non Network Non Network 7 In Network In Network 8 * * Participate & receive monthly credits for 9 YES YES NO NO 10 participating in the Wellness Plan? 11 Single $1,250 $2,500 $5,000 $10,000 12 How much is the Annual Deductible I must pay? 2 Party $2,500 $5,000 $10,000 $20,000 13 Family $3,750 $7,500 $10,000 $20,000 14 What % of covered charges does the plan pay after I 80% after 60% after 70% after 50% after

15 meet my annual deductible? Deductible Deductible Deductible Deductible 16 17 Single $3,650 $7,300 $5,600 $12,700 What is the maximum amount I may pay annually 2 Party $7,300 $14,600 $11,200 $25,400 18 for medical copays, deductibles, and coinsurance? 19 Family $10,950 $21,900 $11,200 $25,400 30% after 50% after 20 How much will I pay for an Office Visit? $30 copay $50 copay 21 Deductible Deductible How much will I pay for Diagnostic X-Ray & Lab 40% after 30% after 50% after 22 $0 23 Work? Deductible Deductible Deductible 20% after 40% after 30% after 50% after 24 How much will I pay for an Emergency Room Visit? Deductible Deductible Deductible Deductible 25 How much will I pay for Inpatient & Outpatient 20% after 40% after 30% after 50% after 26 care? Deductible Deductible Deductible Deductible 27 40% after 50% after 28 How much will I pay for Preventive Services? $0 $0 Deductible Deductible 29 30 Is there an annual maximum the plan will pay? NO NO NO NO

31 32 Is there a lifetime maximum the plan will pay? NO NO NO NO

33 Prescription Drug Plans Standard PPO Basic PPO 34 Single $1,000 $1,000 35 What is the maximum amount I may pay annually 2 Party $2,000 $2,000 36 for Prescription Drug Copays? $2,000 $2,000 37 Family 38 $0 copay Not Covered 39 Covered OTC Drugs 40 How much will I pay for a 30 day supply $0 copay Not Covered Select Generic Drugs 41 prescription drug? Generic $10 copay $20 copay 42 Brand $40 copay $60 copay 43 Specialty $150 copay $150 copay 44 $0 copay Not Covered 45 Covered OTC Drugs

46 $0 Copay Not Covered 47 How much will I pay for a 90 day supply Select Generic Drugs prescription drug? 48 Generic $25 copay $40 copay 49 Brand $100 copay $150 copay 50 Specialty Not eligible for 90 day supply Not eligible for 90 day supply 51 Combined Maximum Out of Pocket Limit Standard PPO Basic PPO 52 What is the most I may spend out of pocket Single $4,650 $8,300 $6,600 $13,700 53 annually for Medical Charges and Presription 2 Party $9,300 $16,600 $13,200 $27,400 54 Drugs? Family $12,950 $23,900 $13,200 $27,400 55 56 57 58 59 60 39 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 Rates and Method of Payment: 2 1. The rates for active clergy are supplemented by an annual per clergy share per appointed full time clergy and the Active Clergy 3 Health Fund Apportionment. Rates and Method of Payment: 4 2. The rates1. Thefor ratesretired for clergyactive clergy and aresurviving suppleme spousesnted by an who annual are perun derclergy 65 share are persupplemented appointed full bytime the clergy Retired and the Medical Active Cle Apportionment.rgy 5 3. For the StandardHealth Fund plan, Apportionment. the rates for lay employees represent the “full rate.” Since the Group Insurance apportionment does not 6 supplement2. The lay rates employee for retired rates, clergy itand is survivingrecommended spouses whothat are the un salader ry-paying65 are supplemented unit pay by a theminimum Retired Medical of 60% Apportionment. of the lay rate for all lay 7 employees3. For enrolled the Standard in the plan, Standard the rates Plan.for lay Itemployees is also recommendedrepresent the “full that rate.” the Since lay the employee’s Group Insurance contribu apportionmenttion should do esnot not exceed 9.5% of supplement lay employee rates, it is recommended that the salary-paying unit pay a minimum of 60% of the lay rate for all lay 8 the employee’s household income. 9 employees enrolled in the Standard Plan. It is also recommended that the lay employee’s contribution should not exceed 9.5% of 4. The Ratesthe for employee’s the Basic household Plan are income. available to all eligible Clergy & Lay employees. The Clergy Rate in the Basic plan will be 10 supplemented4. The Rates by the for theannual Basic perPlan clergy are available shar eto per all eligibleappointed Clergy full & Lay time employees. clergy and The theClergy Acti Rateve inClergy the Basic Health plan willFund be Apportionment. If 11 a Lay employeesupplemented enrolls by in the the annual single per plan clergy for shar thee per Basic appointed plan, fullthe time church clergy or and Agency the Acti shallve Clergy pay Healththe employer Fund Apportionment. cost of the premiumIf to 12 supplementa Lay the employee cost of enrollsthe Lay in employee’sthe single plan coverage. for the Basic The plan, employee the church shouldor Agency not shall pay pay more the employer than the cost cost of theof thepremium Single to premium rate 13 supplement the cost of the Lay employee’s coverage. The employee should not pay more than the cost of the Single premium rate listed below. 14 listed below. 15 5. The monthly5. The monthlyrates for rates participants for participants are areto beto bepaid paid to to the the Conferencenference Treasurer’s Treasurer’s Office Office by the by local the church/agency local church/agency treasurer the treasurer the 16 first of eachfirst month of each inmonth which in which the premiums the premiums are are due. due. The The grace pe periodriod payment payment can becan no be longer no longerthan the than end of the the end month of forthe month for which thewhich premium the premium is due. is Non-payment due. Non-payment of ofpremiums premiums by thisthis dead deadlineline will will result result in termination in termination from the from Health the Benefits Health Plan. Benefits Plan. 17 18 Standard Basic 19 Standard Basic Monthly Premium Rate Schedule: 2015 2016 2016 20 Monthly ActivePremium Clergy: Rate Schedule: 2015 2016 2016 21 Single 22 Active Clergy: $252.00 $252.00 $92.00 23 Single Two Party $658.00$252.00 $658.00$252.00 $618.00 $92.00 Family 24 Two Party $792.00$658.00 $792.00 $658.00 $792.00 $618.00 Lay Employees & Diaconal Ministers (Active): 25 Family $792.00 $792.00 $792.00 26 Single – Employee Cost TBD by TBD by $92.00 Lay Employees & Diaconal Ministers (Active): 27 Employer Employer 28 Single – EmployeeSingle – Employer Cost Cost* TBDTBD by by TBD byTBD by$452.00* $92.00 29 EmployerEmployer EmployerEmployer Single $633.00 $633.00 N/A 30 Single – Employer Cost* TBD by TBD by $452.00* Two Party $1,244.00 $1,244.00 $1,070.00 31 Employer Employer 32 Family $1,447.00 $1,447.00 $1,244.00 Single 33 Retired Clergy and Local Pastors** (under 65): $633.00 $633.00 N/A 34 Two Party Single $332.00$1,244.00 $332.00 $1,244.00 $258.00 $1,070.00 35 Family Two Party (both under 65) $665.00$1,447.00 $665.00 $1,447.00 $516.00 $1,244.00 With two or more dependents $770.00 $770.00 $598.00 36 Retired Clergy and Local Pastors** (under 65): 37 Surviving Spouses of Clergy and Local Pastors** (under 65): Single $332.00 $332.00 $258.00 38 Single $268.00 $268.00 $210.00 39 Two Party With (both one dependentunder 65) $536.00$665.00 $536.00 $665.00 $420.00 $516.00 40 With two With or more two or dependents more dependents $590.00$770.00 $590.00 $770.00 $590.00 $598.00 41 SurvivingRetired Spouses Lay ofEmployees Clergy and& Diaconal Local Ministers:Pastors** (under 65): Single (under 65) $602.00 $602.00 $470.00 42 Single $268.00 $268.00 $210.00 43 Two Party (both under 65) $1,179.00 $1,179.00 $940.00 44 With one With dependent two or more dependents $1,367.00$536.00 $1,367.00 $536.00 $1067.00 $420.00 45 With two *Satisfies or more Affordable dependents Care Act requirements $590.00 $590.00 $590.00 46 **Local Pastors who have completed their course of study. Retired Lay Employees & Diaconal Ministers: 47 Single (under 65) $602.00 $602.00 $470.00 48 THE 2016 LIFE INSURANCE PLAN for Clergy and Local Pastors: Two Party (both under 65) 49 The Plan provides group term life coverage in the following amounts$1,179.00 to eligible clergy$1,179.00 and their dependents $940.00 who are 50 enrolledWith two in or the more Health dependents Benefit Plan (medical coverage): $1,367.00 $1,367.00 $1067.00 51 *Satisfies Under Affordable 65 - Active Care &Act Under requirements Appointment $50,000 52 **Local Under Pastors 65 who – Active have completed on Disability their Leave course of study. $30,000 53 65 & Over - Active and Under Appointment $12,500 54 55 DEPENDENT LIFE INSURANCE for Clergy and Local Pastors: 56 Spouse of Active(under age 65) - Under Appointment or on Disability Leave $10,000 57 Spouse of Clergy (Over age 65) $ 6,250 58 Children: 59 Age 14 days to 19 years, or 25 years if full time student $5,000 60

40 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 REPORT NO. 3 2 RETIREE BENEFITS 3 4 5 FOR INFORMATION: In 2015 the Conference Board of Pensions and Health Benefits entered into a partnership with Towers 6 Watson OneExchange to offer all qualified retired participants assistance in purchasing both an Individual Medicare Supplement and 7 Individual Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. To help pay for the cost of these individual plans, all qualified retirees are 8 provided a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) which is funded by the Conference. As a result of this partnership an Actuarial 9 Valuation reports that our unfunded liability for Post Retirement Medical Benefits is now at $29,512,385 as of December 31st, 2014, 10 down from a previously reported unfunded liability of $126,891,428 as reported on December 31st, 2012. 11 12 REQURING ACTION 13 1. The Conference Board of Pensions & Health Benefits will continue to partner with Towers Watson One Exchange to provide 14 all Medicare Eligible retirees a choice of an individual Medicare supplement and Medicare Part D Prescription Drug plan. 15 These plans will be combined with an individual Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) for each eligible retiree & spouse to 16 help pay for the retirees health care premiums or other health related expenses. Retirees who are under 65 and not Medicare 17 eligible will remain in the self funded Health Insurance Plan. 18 2. To adequately fund the Health Reimbursement Account, as well cost of Pre 65 retirees in the Self Funded Active Medical 19 plan, the Conference Board of Pensions & Health Benefits recommends that on January 1st, 2016, the Retired Clergy Health 20 Fund Apportionment be established at $1,300,000. 21 3. The Conference Board of Pensions & Health Benefits recommends that effective January 1st, 2016 eligible participants already 22 enrolled in the program will continue to receive funding in the amount of $2,400 into a Health Reimbursement Account 23 24 (HRA). Eligible participants include Retired Clergy, Local Pastors (who have completed Course of Study), eligible Lay 25 Employees, and surviving spouses who are age 65 or older, and their eligible dependents, who previously met all enrollment 26 obligations in the Ministers’ Health Benefits Plan. The HRA subsidy will be available only to current & future retirees who 27 have previously satisfied the plan’s eligibility requirements. Participants who have previously opted out of the plan will not be 28 allowed to opt back in under any circumstance. Clergy and their eligible dependents who retired prior to 1992 will continue 29 to receive an additional $600 into their HRA account to help pay for the retiree’s health care premiums or other health related 30 expenses. 31 4. Clergy who retire in 2016 and have at least 5 years of continuing coverage in the Active Health Benefits Plan prior to 32 retirement, are eligible to participate in the program with One Exchange and will receive a fixed amount of funding into a 33 Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) that will be based upon total years of service in the Oklahoma Annual Conference. 34 Service years from another Annual Conference will not count toward the HRA funding level. Funding for eligible clergy will 35 be based upon the following chart: 36 37 Total Years of % of Core Health Annual HRA 38 Service Reimbursement (HRA) Amount 39 20 or more 100% $2400 40 15 to under 20 80% $1920 41 10 to under 15 60% $1440 42 5 to under 10 50% $1200

43 Under 5 0% $0

44 45 5. Years of Service will be determined by the Total Years of Service report provided by The General Board of Pension and 46 Health Benefits as defined in paragraph 358.2 in the 2012 Book of Discipline. In addition, clergy who have previous service 47 years as a full time diaconal minister in the Oklahoma Conference prior to ordination will have those years counted for HRA 48 subsidy purposes. 49 6. For HRA subsidy eligibility, the Annual Conference will recognize all types of retirement as listed under paragraph 358 in the 50 2012 Book of Discipline. Clergy on Honorable location are not eligible to participate in the program. 51 52 7. For Clergy Couples, both Clergy will receive the HRA subsidy for whichever spouse has the highest years of service. 53 8. Surviving Spouses of clergy and local pastors who were receiving an HRA subsidy at the time of the death of their spouse will 54 remain eligible to receive the same amount of HRA funding after the death of their spouse. 55 56 57 58 59 60 41 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 9. Divorced Spouses of clergy and local pastors who were receiving an HRA subsidy at the time of divorce will remain eligible to 2 receive the same amount of HRA funding after the divorce of their spouse is finalized. 3 10. For participants who marry after retirement, the participant’s new spouse is eligible to participate in the program with One 4 Exchange, however they are not eligible to receive any HRA funding from the conference. 5 11. All participants who are not Medicare Eligible at the time of retirement will remain in the Active Health plan until they 6 become Medicare Eligible. 7 12. Retired Lay employees of the Oklahoma Annual Conference are eligible to participate in the program with Towers Watson 8 One Exchange. Annual Conference employees who have at least 20 years of full time employment and at least 5 years of 9 continuing participation in the Active Health Benefits Plan prior to retirement are eligible to receive 100% of the Core HRA 10 at retirement. Annual Conference employees who do not have at least 20 years of full time employment and at least 5 years of 11 continuing participation in the Active Health Benefits Plan prior to retirement are eligible to participate but are not eligible to 12 an HRA at retirement. 13 13. Retired Lay employees of any local church or agency who have at least 5 years of continuing participation in the Active Health 14 Benefits Plan prior to retirement are eligible to participate in the program with One Exchange. If the local church or agency 15 wishes to provide the employee with an HRA to help pay for health care premiums or other health related expenses they may 16 provide any percentage they deem necessary, however the HRA will be direct billed to the local church or agency by the 17 Annual Conference. 18 14. Clergy who are currently on Medical Leave and on Medicare will participate in the program with One Exchange and will 19 receive 100% of the Core HRA subsidy in 2016 to help pay for health care premiums or other health related expenses 20 15. Clergy who are placed on Medical Leave after January 1st, 2016 will remain on the Active Medical plan until they become 21 Medicare eligible after such time they will participate in the program with One Exchange and receive 100% of the Core HRA 22 subsidy to help pay for health care premiums or other health related expenses. 23 16. In the event that a retired participant should experience any unanticipated and unexpected high medical costs, a retired 24 participant may request a grant from the Conference Reserve Funds to help with this onetime expense. All requests of this 25 nature should be submitted in writing to the Conference Benefits Officer who will then call a special meeting of a 26 subcommittee of the Conference Board of Pensions and Health Benefits to review such requests. 27 17. Group term life insurance is provided for any retired clergy who is receiving an HRA Subsidy from the Conference. Details 28 of this plan are listed below. 29 30 THE 2016 LIFE INSURANCE PLAN for Retired Clergy and Local Pastors: 31 32 The Plan provides group term life coverage in the following amounts to eligible clergy and their dependents who are 33 participating the program with One Exchange and receiving an HRA subsidy from the Conference: 34 Under 65 - Retired or on Disability Leave $30,000 35 65 & Over - All Retired or on Disability Leave $12,500 36 DEPENDENT LIFE INSURANCE for Clergy and Local Pastors: 37 Spouse of Retired Clergy (under age 65) $10,000 38 Spouse of Retired Clergy (over age 65) $6,250 39 40 Children: 41 Age 14 days to 19 years, or 25 years if full time student $5,000 42 43 44 This partnership with One Exchange as well as the Heath Reimbursement Account funding is not a form of entitlement, and it should 45 be noted that the Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits Inc., with the approval of Annual Conference, reserves the right to 46 amend or possibly eliminate the arrangements listed above. 47 48 49 50 51 52

53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 42 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 REPORT NO. 4 2 FLEXIBLE BENEFIT PLAN 3 4 (Cafeteria Plan) 5 6 REQUIRING ACTION: 7 The Health Benefits Committee recommends that the Oklahoma Annual Conference continue the Cafeteria Plan as set up under 8 section 125 of the Internal Revenue Code and in accordance with all other applicable regulations and federal and state laws for 9 the period January 1, 2016, through December 31, 2016. 10 The Flexible Benefit Plan will continue to offer flexible benefits elected in advance by each participant by reduction of 11 compensation, including the following options of payment with pre-tax dollars: 12 1) Premiums for the Oklahoma Conference Health Benefits Plan; 13 2) Qualified medical expenses not covered in the Health Benefits Plan (such as deductibles, co-insurance payments, vision 14 expenses, hearing expenses, and dental expenses) by monthly reimbursement, up to an annual limit of $2,500; and 15 3) Qualified dependent care expenses by monthly reimbursements, up to an annual limit of $5,000. 16 17 Eligible participants include the following: 18 1) Full and Provisional Elders and Deacons, transitional deacons, associate members, ministers serving under the provisions 19 of ¶346.1 or 346.2 of the 2012 Book of Discipline, and full-time local pastors of the Oklahoma Annual Conference who 20 are appointed full-time and offered group medical coverage; and 21 2) Lay employees of a local church, or institution or agency of the Oklahoma Annual Conference, certified by their 22 supervisors as working twenty (30) hours per week and offered group medical coverage. 23

24 The “Open Enrollment” period for the 2016 Health Plan shall run from August 1st, 2015 thru December 1st, 2015. 25 An election form must be returned to the Conference Treasurer’s Office within 31 days of eligibility, and a new election form 26 must be completed and returned to the Conference Treasurers office by December 1st, during the open enrollment period 27 28 every year. If a person fails to return a completed election form on or before the specified due date for any Plan Year, that 29 person shall be deemed to have elected cash compensation in lieu of such optional benefit regardless of their election during 30 the previous year. 31 A participant may revoke a benefit election for the balance of a Plan Year and file a new election only if he/she has not 32 terminated employment and both the revocation and the new election are on account and consistent with a qualified change 33 in status. 34 The local church or agency treasurer will remit to the Oklahoma Annual Conference Treasurer’s Office all monthly flexible 35 benefits elected by their participants by the first of each month. The grace period for late payment can be no longer than the 36 37 end of the month for which the payment is due. Non-payment of elected flexible benefits will mean that the flexible benefits 38 for the year will be invalidated. 39 Deposits of funds from salary reductions are to be made to the Conference Treasury, and qualified medical and dependent 40 care expenses are to be withdrawn there from. 41 The plan will be funded through unused deposits only. 42 43 Participation in the Cafeteria Plan terminates when a person ceases to be an employee. A terminated participant may only 44 submit and be reimbursed for medical services or expenses that are dated prior to the date of termination. 45 46 Notes:

47 48 ______49 50 ______51 52 ______53 54 ______55 56 ______57 58 ______59 60 ______43 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 REPORT NO. 5 2 2007-2008 Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) 3 4 5 For information: In 2007 and 2008, The Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits Inc. arranged an HRA (Health 6 Reimbursement Arrangement) with Kempton Group Inc., our self-insured Third-Party Administrator. All insurance participants 7 enrolled in the Active Health Benefits Plan December 1, 2006, and December 1, 2007, were allowed to participate in the HRA 8 plan. Each individual participant acquired funds that will remain in the participant’s account until the participant uses all funds or 9 terminates employment with the Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church. Only the employer can contribute to 10 an HRA. 11 Participation in the HRA Plan terminates when a person ceases to be an employee. A terminated participant may only submit and 12 be reimbursed for medical services or expenses that are dated prior to the date of termination. Reimbursements for 2016 claims 13 are only distributed 30 days into 2017. Those who terminate the Health Insurance Plan may receive HRA funds up to 30 days 14 after termination as long as the receipts are dated prior to termination date. 15 16 Those on incapacity leave and participating in the Voluntary Transition Program, as a part of the Comprehensive Protection Plan, 17 will continue to have the funds available as long as they participate in the Health Insurance Plan. Those on leave of absence, 18 transitional leave, sabbatical leave, or extension ministry will continue to have the funds available as long as they are on the Health 19 Insurance Plan. If a person in any of the previously mentioned groups terminates employment, HRA funds will terminate as 20 terminated employees, stated above. 21

22 Mark Commons, chairperson, Board of Pension and Health Benefits 23 H Tom Harrison, vice-chairperson, Board of Pension and Health Benefits 24 T. Brian Bakeman, Conference Treasurer/Benefits officer 25 Stephen Mitchell, Director of Benefits 26 27 28 29 NOTE: This document and the full plan document can be accessed on our website at www.okumc.org/benefits. All information 30 regarding our Health Benefits Plan, including links to PPO networks, enrollment forms, the Flexible Benefits Plan 31 Document, forms, and privacy notices, are also accessible on the site. 32 33 Notes: 34 35 ______36 37 ______38 39 ______40 41 ______42 43 ______44 45 ______46 47 ______48 49 ______50 51 ______52 53 ______54 55 ______56 57 ______58 59 ______60 44 www.okumc.org

Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 45 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 ANNUAL CONFERENCE COUNCIL 1 1 Education and Campus Ministries, and Camps and Retreat 2014 was a pivotal year for the Annual Conference Coun- 2 2 Ministries. cil (ACC). Through adoption of the “New People New Places” 3 3 process last May, the Annual Conference Council members 4 4 We have continued to work closely with the ministries have worked hard to expand the focus on reaching new people 5 5 under the DMT umbrella in order to facilitate ministry while for Jesus Christ from a Conference strategic statement to a 6 6 being mindful of expenditures. The different ministries are regional and local-church initiative. This did not come without 7 7 responding positively to these challenges and finding creative considerable effort and some heartache, as funding for this 8 8 ways to collaborate and continue to share the Good News. new process was provided through reallocation of Confer- 9 9 The Five-Day Academy for Spiritual Formation worked ence Apportionment dollars from existing ministries. All 10 10 closely with the multi-site ministry to smaller congregations ministries that receive Apportionment dollars go through an 11 11 in order to provide an excellent speaker for both sets of annual audit process through the Annual Conference Council. 12 12 events. The DMT is also strategizing ways to support The audit process continues to be fine-tuned, both to ensure 13 13 churches at key points as they go through attendance changes good stewardship of Conference funds being used, as well as 14 14 in order to help sustain and encourage continued growth. We to help guide our ministries in looking beyond Apportion- 15 15 are looking forward with hope to the continued ministry of ment funding to alliances and resources for continuation and 16 16 all our areas and the new things God will do through them! growth of their missions. This past year all funded ministries 17 17 were audited, as well as the Annual Conference Council and 18 18 Connie J. Gibson, Cydni Tillery, co-chairpersons the four Conference committees. A total of 24 new ministries 19 19 were approved through the “New People New Places” process, 20 20 DISCIPLESHIP MINISTRIES funded in the amount of $629,665. 21 21 FOR THE SMALL-MEMBERSHIP CHURCH 22 As we look to the future, we realize that to reach “new 22 It’s been a busy year reaching out and enabling the 23 people, more people, and more diverse people” for Jesus Christ 23 small-membership churches to grow and thrive. In Fall 24 we must become more eclectic in our approach and more 24 2014, we traveled to six churches where we welcomed 263 25 intentional in our funding. Long-term funding of ministries 25 participants from 69 churches to “Living the Lord’s Prayer” 26 that are central to our United Methodist mission will 26 workshops. (The number of participants increased by 39 27 continue, and those ministries will be challenged to grow their 27 from the previous year, even after a seventh host church 28 ministries through an increased emphasis on creating alliances 28 canceled at the last minute.) 29 and securing alternative resources to Apportionment support. 29 30 Newer ministries will follow the NPNP process, where startup 30 In December 2014, our Conference had the privilege 31 funding will be provided with the understanding that the 31 of hosting the most recent “Route 122” event. “Route 122” 32 ministries will become self-funded within a pre-planned time 32 comes from paragraph 122 in the Book of Discipline, “The 33 frame. 33 process for carrying out our Mission—We make disciples 34 34 as we…” The event we hosted had the highest attendance. 35 Annual Conference Council’s mission is not an easy 35 Like-minded people came together to share and talk about 36 path. Our process and committee conversations are often 36 revitalization of the Church and making disciples for Jesus 37 long and passionate. We are passionate about the mission of 37 Christ. The 2015 event will be in Cleveland, Ohio. 38 the Church and the ministries we are funding as the Church. 38 39 As we continue to change our processes, the desired end 39 The Youth Workers Academy became the Children 40 result is always the same: that the world may come to know 40 and Youth Workers Academy in August 2014. We had four 41 Jesus Christ through the words and arms of each of us as His 41 people who work with children join the first class. 42 church. 42 43 43 We always are available to assist the small-membership 44 Donna Heldermon, Sam Powers, co-chairpersons 44 congregations in resources to help with vitality. Some of the 45 45 resources we offer are the Readiness 360 inventory, Mission 46 DISCIPLESHIP MINISTRY TEAM 46 Insite, and Percept Demographic materials. 47 The Discipleship Ministry Team (DMT) exists to support 47 48 local congregations and ministries by providing a variety of 48 Refer to the delegate’s book or visit our booths upstairs 49 tools and training to help churches make disciples of Jesus 49 during Annual Conference for information on all of these 50 Christ for the transformation of the world. Our focus is to 50 resources and events. 51 provide opportunities for discipleship that individual local 51 52 churches cannot effectively provide on their own. 52 Diana Northcutt, director 53 53 54 DMT ministry areas include: Evangelism, Younger Adult 54 55 Ministries, Youth Ministries, Small Membership Church 55 CAMP AND RETREAT MINISTRY 56 Commission, Older Adult Ministries, Five-Day Academy for 56 Our vision is that people will be transformed through 57 Spiritual Formation, Natural Church Development, Christians 57 their time at our programs and sites, and that we will link 58 Engaged in Faith Formation, and Strengthening the Black 58 those decisions back to the local church. We are partners 59 Church for the 21st Century. Separate ministry groups that 59 with the local church in making disciples of Jesus Christ for 60 also relate to DMT are: Oklahoma City University, Higher 60 the transformation of the world. 46 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 Consider the life change that happens in our camps, as 1 We appreciate the support of volunteers and supporters. 2 evidenced by this camper’s testimony: 2 Without you, we can’t develop effective programs and 3 3 accomplish improvements in facilities and services that 4 I just want everyone who had ANYTHING to do with 4 are so needed. We also are grateful for your prayers and 5 this camp to know that I thank you so much! CLEW camp 5 expressions of encouragement. 6 was where I truly recognized God and proclaimed my faith. 6 7 That district camp has molded me in ways I cannot describe. 7 Send your kids to camp this summer (!), and please 8 8 consider allowing us to serve you this coming year through 9 This year, my first year at senior-high CLEW, was 9 a hosted retreat or getaway for your church, youth group, 10 especially life-changing. I had a small group who really opened 10 women’s or men’s group, or children’s camp. 11 up and supported each other and that’s more than I could 11 12 have asked for. I learned, in that room, with that beautiful 12 Ed Parker, executive director 13 group, that I didn’t have to limit myself to what people say. I 13 Rick Trobaugh, president, Board of Trustees 14 learned that God has a purpose for me and through Him I can 14 15 accomplish great things, despite what other people say. I know 15 BOARD OF HIGHER EDUCATION 16 without a doubt that God put me there with that group of 16 & CAMPUS MINISTRY 17 people for a reason. This year I promised myself that I would 17 The ministry vision of the BHECM is that an increasing 18 take camp with me and that I would make a better disciple 18 number of students and graduates of Oklahoma colleges 19 out of myself. 19 and universities are active, growing Christian disciples and 20 20 leaders in the life and ministry of The United Methodist 21 Since camp I’ve studied much more Scripture, I’ve prayed 21 Church, its congregations, and beyond. We are seeing this 22 deeper and better, and I’ve also stayed open-minded to the 22 vision becoming reality on college campuses in Oklahoma. 23 things God wants for me. Camp has changed my life for the 23 We currently support 15 traditional campus ministries, 24 better. Each year, I have doubts that there’s no reason to be 24 the Wesley at OCU, five parish-based ministries, and an 25 there, or I won’t feel the call, but each year God pulls through 25 outstanding ministry to Chinese students at OU. 26 like always. I couldn’t be more thankful for the people that 26 27 support these camps because I found God in a canyon; I 27 An astounding 2,765 students are registered as 28 discovered who I want to be in a tabernacle full of sweaty, 28 participants in the various ministries. These students 29 stinky teenagers, and it is the most beautiful experience in the 29 participate in a wide variety of activities, from worship to 30 world! Once again, thank you 30 small groups, to lunches, to missions. Over the course of 31 31 one year, these ministries provided 26,150 mission hours in 32 Our camps and programs are committed to providing: 32 service in their local communities, throughout the nation, 33 33 and even in international missions. 34 1. A safe environment. Campers will experience a 34 35 physically and emotionally safe experience 35 In the past year, our campus ministries recorded 30 36 2. Mature, well-trained staff that care 36 professions of faith and 12 adult baptisms. Of course, making 37 3. Opportunity to learn a new skill 37 disciples is about more than simply bringing new people 38 4. New friends and connections 38 to the faith. It also requires that those in the faith grow and 39 5. Spiritual transformation and the opportunity to respond 39 deepen their discipleship. The various ministries create 40 to God’s unique call 40 opportunities for deepening discipleship through regular 41 6. FUN 41 worship and small groups. In the last year, on average, 389 42 42 people participated regularly in worship through our campus 43 We are also committed to providing retreat guests 43 ministries. These ministries also developed 102 small groups, 44 with: 44 and total participation in those averaged 1,506 people 45 45 weekly. As they study the Bible and apply it to their lives, the 46 1. Delicious and plentiful food 46 students are formed as disciples. 47 2. Outstanding accommodations and facilities 47 48 3. Remarkable hospitality 48 Campus ministries are often a place of calling for 49 49 students. They hear the voice of God calling them into 50 Site improvements include new cabins at Canyon and 50 various forms and modes of ministry through small group 51 CrossPoint, as well as moving forward with a new Health 51 leaders, campus ministers, and brothers and sisters in the 52 Center at Egan. We have redesigned our Camp Books for 52 faith at their campus ministry facilities. This year, 41 students 53 this year to make it easier for churches to understand which 53 are responding to a call to ministry. Twenty-one of these 54 camp(s) they might be interested in attending. We have 54 may become United Methodist pastors; others will become 55 launched a new website that is more user-friendly. Check us 55 pastors in other denominations; some, missionaries; and 56 out at www.OKCamps.org ! 56 some, Christian educators. 57 57 58 This year will be devoted to evaluating our entire 58 As we begin a new era of campus ministry in Oklahoma, 59 ministry—programs, food service, facilities, staff, services. 59 the campus ministers, students, and local boards will 60 60 continue to live out the vision of reaching people and making 47 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 disciples for Jesus Christ. We have every confidence that 1 time of praise and worship in music, prayer, and a message. 2 they can and will do this, by the power and leading of the 2 3 Holy Spirit. 3 In Fall 2014, we offered a joint Bible study, bringing 4 4 together college students and people from Ada-First UMC, 5 Katie Hill, chairperson 5 on Tuesday mornings in our building. For Spring 2015, we 6 6 are offering a Bible study on Jeremiah; the groups meets in 7 WESLEY FOUNDATION 7 the Pesagi Lobby each Wednesday night. 8 EAST CENTRAL UNIVERSITY, ADA 8 9 2014 was a year of many changes. However, one thing 9 Because we are more active on campus, we want 10 remains constant: our mission statement “To Know Christ 10 to make sure our building is accommodating. The 11 and To Make Christ Known.” 11 building has been updated with new paint, furniture, and 12 12 equipment to facilitate our FUSION worship service and 13 Jana Hogg-Green, the previous campus minister, left 13 to provide a pleasant atmosphere where students relax 14 in May 2014 to get married and begin a new appointment 14 and recharge during stressful periods of academic rigor. 15 as campus minister for the Wesley Foundation at the 15 Externally, we have new windows, doors, and a new cross- 16 University of Arkansas at Little Rock. We are very 16 and-flame that stands to the east of our building. More 17 thankful for the year of ministry that Jana gave to the 17 changes, both inside and out, are planned this summer, 18 United Campus Ministry (UCM). 18 such as working on flowerbeds, landscaping, a new roof, 19 19 and more. 20 In mid-July, the name of our ministry changed. 20 21 Apportionment funding for campus ministries across 21 Janey Wilson, campus minister 22 the Conference has been reduced. In order for us to get 22 23 the funding we need, it became necessary for the United 23 WESLEY FOUNDATION 24 Campus Ministry (UCM) to become a Wesley Foundation 24 EASTERN OKLAHOMA STATE COLLEGE, 25 and, in essence, become a new ministry. Several non- 25 WILBURTON 26 United Methodist churches that previously supported the 26 Your United Methodist Campus ministry continues 27 UCM continue their support of the Wesley Foundation at 27 to represent you on the campus of Eastern Oklahoma 28 ECU. 28 State College. We continue to serve students through 29 29 partnerships with various programs on campus: the honors 30 I arrived at ECU, my alma mater, as the campus 30 program, EOSC library, theater department ,and athletics. 31 minister in mid-June, moving from the Wesley 31 In addition, we host a weekly meal and worship service on 32 Foundation at the University of Oklahoma in Norman, 32 Tuesday at 5 p.m. We continue to provide pastoral care for 33 where I had been the associate campus minister for six 33 students, staff, and faculty. We are so thankful to receive 34 years. I had never dreamed that I would return to Ada, 34 support from many churches across the McAlester District. 35 to ECU, or to the ECU Wesley — places that gave me so 35 We continue to share the love of Christ with young people 36 much as a student. I cannot say thank-you enough to 36 and count it as a privilege to do so. 37 professors, community leaders, church friends, college 37 38 friends, or D.A. Bennett and Scott Spencer, who were 38 April Coates, campus minister/director 39 the campus ministers during my college years and who 39 40 gave me their encouragement, love, support, prayers, and 40 WESLEY FOUNDATION 41 sometimes even that swift kick in the tail! 41 LANGSTON UNIVERSITY, LANGSTON 42 42 This has been a wonderful year at the Wesley 43 We believe our ministry is most effective when we are 43 Foundation at Langston. Thanks to the support of the 44 active in the ECU community. This year we have made a 44 friends, the Conference, and local churches we continue 45 concerted effort to be visible and active on campus among 45 to make disciples to transform the world. Seeking to stay 46 students and faculty. The Wesley students and staff eat 46 in the United Methodist tradition while in the midst of 47 together in the college cafeteria every Monday. We also 47 looking for a church home, some former students and 48 started handing out snacks on campus; it’s not a gimmick; 48 board members bring their families back to participate 49 no strings are attached. We also made our building 49 in Wesley celebrations, services of baptism, worship, 50 space available to groups on campus. For example, Zeta 50 and weddings. This year we hosted an adoption service 51 Pi Lambda fraternity now uses the building for chapter 51 followed by baptism at the Wesley Center. University 52 meetings on Monday nights. We have adopted Zeta Tau 52 students are drawn by such a presence of tradition and 53 Alpha sorority. Our goal throughout this is for students 53 continuity. Strong student leadership has helped develop 54 and faculty to know we are here for them. We hope that 54 new programming geared toward missions and family 55 they feel safe and loved when they come into ECU Wesley. 55 support. Student leaders focused on learning how to talk to 56 56 youths about Christ. They worked with 60 community kids 57 The ECU Wesley offers weekly worship. Our service 57 on a weekly basis, feeding them and gaining a better grip 58 is called FUSION. We chose that word because when two 58 on speaking about becoming and being a Christian. Our 59 things are fused they become permanent. This should be 59 students in worship programs were taught not only how 60 how our relationship is with Christ: permanent. We have a 60 to lead in our Sunday night service but also how to be in 48 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 worship at home, student-style. God is surely blessing us at 1 Each Wednesday we host about 150 people at a free lunch 2 the Wesley Center at Langston through your prayers. 2 in the chapel. A rich diversity of nationalities, majors, staff, 3 3 faculty, and students enjoys a simple lunch and a time of 4 Cecelia Brooks campus minister/director 4 fellowship. This is made possible through partnerships 5 Patty Cook, board chairperson 5 with Sodexo Food Services, Coca-Cola, churches supplying 6 6 desserts, and a financial gift from the churches of North 7 THE WESLEY CENTER 7 Oklahoma City District. We appreciate all this support in 8 OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY 8 our ministry to serve others in the name and spirit of Jesus. 9 After years of faithful service, Jennifer Long moved to 9 10 California to work on a D.Min. degree. At OCU, Rev. Long 10 Rodney Newman, director of Religious Life 11 initiated new programs and blessed the lives of countless 11 12 students through her ministry of worship and counseling. 12 13 Rodney Newman continued building on the strength of 13 WESLEY FOUNDATION 14 this ministry when he was appointed in June 2014 as the 14 UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA, NORMAN 15 new director of the Wesley Center. Two student interns 15 16 collaborate on the direction, planning, and leadership of 16 For over 200 years the people called Methodists have 17 our programs. Our mission is to assist students in their 17 been committed to the task of making disciples of Jesus 18 devotion and commitment to Jesus Christ through three 18 Christ. Your faithful Apportionment giving has enabled us 19 major areas: 19 to be committed to making disciples of Jesus Christ on the 20 20 campus of the University of Oklahoma in Norman. 21 Worship 21 22 We offer two worship services each week: At 1 p.m. 22 One of our core values and ways in which we create 23 on Thursday, we gather for the regular university chapel 23 and train disciples is through student leadership. We 24 service, led by Vice-President Charles Neff, and at 8:30 24 believe that we have been entrusted with a precious 25 p.m. on Monday for the Evensong service, led by Rev. 25 commodity at the OU Wesley: the future of The United 26 Newman and the Wesley Center ministry team. The 26 Methodist Church. We are doing everything in our 27 Monday evening service features OCU student musicians, 27 power to give young people ample opportunities to be in 28 with a sermon by the director or one of our student 28 leadership. This past year we embarked upon an ambitious 29 leaders. Opportunities for sharing joys and concerns and 29 new approach for student leadership and discipleship. 30 Holy Communion is offered each week. 30 We created an intentional discipleship program that gives 31 31 younger students an opportunity to be discipled and older 32 Service 32 students an opportunity to be discipled and disciple others. 33 The Wesley Center sponsors DAX, which is the 33 We currently have 10 interns who are leading family 34 Christian men’s service fraternity, and Kappa Phi, the 34 groups all over campus and discipling over 100 students 35 Christian women’s service sorority. These student-led 35 in an intentional one-on-one setting. It is our plan to 36 groups offer opportunities for building community 36 continue growing the number of interns we have so that we 37 around worship and service to others. They assist with 37 can continue to add family groups and double the number 38 special events, such as the “Flat Tuesday” pancake dinner 38 of students who are being discipled. 39 on Shrove Tuesday, and raise awareness through such 39 40 emphases as Beauty Week, in praise of inner beauty. The 40 Empowering the students to be in leadership enables 41 Wesley Center supported United Methodist mission 41 us to have an active ministry that reaches hundreds of 42 agencies in anticipation of the Christmas season. We 42 students at all faith levels and help them in their spiritual 43 partnered with R is for Thursday, a new student group 43 journeys. In 2014 we had 510 students involved in small 44 advocating for foster children and emancipated youths, 44 groups or worship! We offered almost 20 small groups, 45 to provide gifts for 10 Circle of Care clients. The initial 45 including family groups, Bible studies, fellowship groups, 46 goal of $700 was surpassed, with over $1,000 raised. 46 mission groups, musical groups, book studies, and others. 47 We also offered an Alternative Gift Marketplace, where 47 Our Chinese ministry had almost 100 new Chinese 48 people could sponsor specific programs through UMCOR 48 students attend. We also started a new African ministry 49 and Project Transformation in honor of loved ones. We 49 that has reached 25 new students from eight African 50 sponsored another Habitat for Humanity Day in October 50 countries! 51 and organized Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference 51 52 and Youth Service Days on campus, which together hosted 52 Our commitment to the Oklahoma Conference is 53 about 300 youths and adults from across the conferences. 53 to continue being good stewards with the resources with 54 54 which we are blessed and to continue building a ministry 55 Fellowship 55 that focuses on making disciples and training up young 56 Each year we eagerly welcome new students into the 56 people to serve the local church when they graduate. 57 life of the Wesley Center. For some, their initial encounters 57 Thank you for your faithful support and for being partners 58 come during the Involvement Fair or Movie Night, 58 with us in ministry at OU. 59 sponsored in the lower level of the Chapel in orientation 59 60 week. Others come for Game Night during finals weeks. 60 Daniel Dennison, campus minister 49 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 CHINESE FELLOWSHIP WESLEY FOUNDATION 1 1 UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA, NORMAN NORTHERN OKLAHOMA COLLEGE, TONKAWA 2 2 3 God is good all the time, and His love endures forever! 3 The ministry at the Northern Oklahoma campus, in 4 Our ministry to the Chinese community at OU continues to 4 Tonkawa, continues to grow in numbers and in faith. In my 5 thrive! Here are some great wonders the Lord alone does in 5 second year as director, we have added more activities and 6 our midst: 6 mission projects for our students and are doing everything 7 7 we can to make students feel welcome and ready to be part of 8 We served breakfast to over 500 new international 8 those events. It is our goal to touch as many lives as possible, 9 students (from over 30 countries) during the New 9 whether through the warmth of a free meal or the in-depth 10 International Student Orientation (NISO) on the OU 10 discussion of a Bible study. With a facility like our Wesley 11 campus in 2014. Of those, 95 percent are hearing the Gospel 11 House and the support of our local churches and Conference, 12 for the first time! They are actively telling their friends about 12 we are able to do so. As we see it, a true blessing, and we are 13 the incredible hospitality they receive each week at the 13 beyond thankful. 14 Wesley, and new students continue to flock to our Tuesday 14 15 English conversation class and our Friday Chinese worship 15 We also started a new fundraising effort in February, and 16 service. God is good, and His love endures forever! 16 we are confident it will increase our overall contributions 17 17 from individuals and churches. These donations will help to 18 We have had almost 100 new Chinese students be a part 18 sustain our overall mission, to make diciples of Jesus Christ 19 of our ministry this year. The influx of new students has led 19 for the transformation of the world. 20 us to need additional English teachers on Tuesday night. 20 21 God is good, and His love endures forever! 21 Ciera Kirby, director 22 22 23 We’ve given away over 100 Chinese-English Bibles to 23 WESLEY FOUNDATION 24 the international students. 24 NORTHEASTERN OKLAHOMA A&M COLLEGE, MIAMI 25 25 The Wesley Student Center’s ministry is focused on 26 Over 60 people are involved in our free TOEFL/English 26 God’s mission, by witnessing to all through generous 27 (Test of English as a Foreign Language) tutoring class this 27 hospitality. It is a welcoming home away from home to many 28 semester; we believe the number of students will keep 28 students. Our mission field is NEO A&M College, which is 29 growing. Through that tutoring class, we have been able to 29 a two-year school. We touch a great number of people of all 30 serve international students from 17 countries and regions: 30 ages, from traditional to older returning students. We want 31 South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, 31 to always be a place where all students are welcome. We 32 Vietnam, Egypt, Bosnia, France, Rwanda, Malaysia, Peru, 32 have Native American, African-American, Hispanic, and 33 Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Venezuela, and China. God is good, 33 Caucasian participants, as well as international students from 34 and His love endures forever! 34 13 countries. Their study fields include music, engineering, 35 35 general studies, GED, early childhood development, pre- 36 We’ve started providing children’s church both on 36 nursing, and nursing, as well as student athletes studying in 37 Tuesday and Friday evenings – new ministry for the 37 various fields. Our building is open every weekday. Fresh, 38 children of our married students who attend English classes 38 home-cooked meals are prepared in-house every Tuesday 39 and Chinese fellowship. God is good ,and His love endures 39 and Thursday. Friday is leftovers day, but you can always find 40 forever! 40 something to eat, even if it’s peanut butter and jelly, to go 41 41 along with a heartfelt conversation, a shoulder on which to 42 We also have a new Friday morning women’s Chinese 42 lean or cry, encouragement, and a prayer. Monday is movie 43 Bible study, geared toward the spouses of our Chinese 43 and “devo” night, Tuesday is worship, and Thursday is game 44 doctoral students and visiting scholars. God is good, and His 44 night, where conversation and laughter abound. 45 love endures forever! 45 46 46 Our students are mission-minded, and our vision is to 47 Mission trip to China in June 2014: we preached and 47 reach out to those in need on campus and in our community. 48 trained leaders in the house churches and campus ministry 48 We have a team of students volunteering at Roosevelt 49 in China. God is good, and His love endures forever! 49 Elementary School, just two blocks away. The pupils are 50 50 from low-income families, and the English-language 51 “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my 51 learner rate is high. In Fall 2014, several of our Wesley 52 prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your 52 students helped with the school carnival, the downtown 53 partnership in the Gospel from the first day until now, being 53 Halloween event, serving and cleaning up at First UMC’s 54 confident of this, that He who began a good work in you 54 free community Thanksgiving dinner, and ringing the bell 55 will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” 55 for the Salvation Army. In Spring 2014, they volunteered 56 (Philippians 1:3-6) 56 at Wilson Elementary as mentors, joined other campus 57 57 ministries in raising awareness about the importance of 58 With gratitude and joy in Christ, 58 organ donation (a “cause of the month” designated by NEO 59 59 student government), and raised $296 for “Soles for Souls” to 60 Fuxia Wang, missionary 60 purchase shoes for local elementary students. 50 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 WESLEY FOUNDATION 1 We are blessed to have many students who want to be 1 SOUTHWESTERN OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY, 2 the hands and feet of Christ and also to enjoy warm, faith- 2 WEATHERFORD 3 based friendships by engaging with us. A group attended the 3 4 South Central Jurisdiction’s All-Wesley Retreat in February 4 God’s plan for our future is full of hope. This year 5 2014 at CrossPoint Camp, where they met other Christian 5 we have seen God’s hope present in our ministry to 6 students and leaders from other colleges and learned more 6 Southwestern Oklahoma State University in tangible ways. 7 about The United Methodist Church and its ministry. 7 8 8 In Spring 2014 we traveled to Eleuthera, Bahamas, for a 9 We are very grateful to the Oklahoma Conference, the 9 week-long mission with Bahamas Methodist Habitat. It was 10 Bartlesville District, and the many churches and church 10 a life-changing experience for many of the 18 students who 11 organizations such as United Methodist Women who have 11 traveled with us. They contemplated calling and service in 12 sponsored us for many years, for their much-needed support 12 ways that have impacted their studies and commitment to 13 of our campus ministry here at NEO. Also, to our hardworking 13 Christ. 14 Board of Directors for the unselfish love and support in 14 15 providing a wonderful place for students to call home. 15 The mission as well as several significant building 16 16 updates encouraged generosity from alumni, friends, and 17 Cathie Pasco, director 17 churches in ways we could not have imagined. The financial 18 18 support we received in 2014 helped fund almost half of our 19 WESLEY FOUNDATION 19 mission as well as the majority of the improvements needed 20 SOUTHEASTERN OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY, 20 for our ministry building. The kindness of our friends was 21 DURANT 21 humbling and empowering. 22 Wesley Campus Ministry is a community that desires 22 23 to see the campus, the city of Durant, and world changed 23 In Summer 2014, we dreamed of new possibilities. 24 through the love of Jesus. Students at the Wesley are 24 With funding help from a grant by the denomination’s 25 challenged in their walk, have a desire to learn about God, 25 Young Clergy Initiative, our ministry is preparing for new 26 and strive to live out a life that is found through knowing 26 internships to share in ministry with several local churches 27 Christ. Our weekly meetings are designed to be a great place 27 in our area. We look forward to encouraging college students 28 to invite friends and connect with others through a small- 28 to listen for God’s call and giving them the tools to grow in 29 group setting. We believe that life change, accountability, 29 leadership. 30 and discipleship happen through these small groups by 30 31 being intentional about sharing our lives with each other. 31 These are the highlights of our year. But each highlight 32 32 points us to God’s good future. The future includes great 33 The ministry seeks to support and strengthen students 33 mission opportunities for our students, a ministry location 34 from all walks of life as they grow in faith through regular 34 that is welcoming, and a new way to equip young adults for 35 opportunities for connecting, small-group studies, worship 35 leadership in the Church. All of these plans from God are 36 services, and service projects. Outreach, recreation, and a variety 36 good. 37 of other events also are scheduled throughout the academic 37 38 year. At the Wesley we will both challenge and encourage 38 Thank you for helping make our ministry possible. 39 students in their faith journey during their college years. 39 40 40 Elizabeth Horton-Ware, campus minister 41 Our purpose: “The Wesley Campus Ministry of 41 42 Southeastern Oklahoma State University exists to REACH 42 WESLEY HOUSE 43 non-believing students, to CONNECT them with other 43 NORTHWESTERN OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY, 44 Christians, to help them GROW in their faith, and to 44 ALVA 45 challenge them to DISCOVER their ministry and HONOR 45 Campus ministry would not be possible without the help 46 God with their lives.” 46 of all the churches, UMW groups, and individuals that love 47 47 college students and are willing to make a difference in their 48 Thanks! As director of the Wesley, I am so grateful for 48 lives. At the Wesley House, we truly love these people! 49 the support from the Conference, the local churches, and 49 50 all of the others that have contributed both financially and 50 The ways these groups and individuals work in college 51 physically through serving. Without your support, we would 51 students’ lives are as varied as those supporters. They provide 52 miss a huge opportunity to reach these students and point 52 an example of servanthood by bringing meals, providing 53 them to Jesus. This is one of the most crucial times in their 53 paper goods, making financial donations, and leading Bible 54 lives, when they are seeking truth and understanding as well 54 lessons or devotions. 55 as finding their places in the world. Thanks to all of you, we 55 56 can share the Good News of a savior who loves them and 56 We learn by example, and servanthood has become 57 wants to be in a real and personal relationship with them. 57 contagious among the students at the Wesley House. They 58 58 love to go to churches to share what is happening at the 59 Tim Ford, director 59 Wesley House and how it has affected their lives. We also 60 [email protected] | www.SEWesley.org 60 have started offering leadership to help with the NWOSU 51 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 Student Government activities. Sometimes we incorporate 1 additional $400,000 went to University-Church Relations 2 one of our well-known activities into a campus-wide event. 2 and Religious Life. For the 2014-15 school year, 153 students 3 3 received these benefits, including 37 clergy dependents, 12 4 We want to thank everyone who loves college students 4 Bishop Scholars, 13 CYME participants, 19 religion majors, 5 and who is willing to give prayers, gifts, talents, and service 5 and 88 United Methodists (some receiving funds in more 6 in this ministry. It truly does and will continue to make a 6 than one category). OCU provided an additional $87,739 7 difference in the students’ lives, both now and in the future, 7 to cover full tuition for three students from Lydia Patterson 8 which is good for The United Methodist Church as we 8 Institute. In total, $5.5 million was given in scholarships to 9 continue to make disciples for the transformation of the 9 students across the university on the basis of academics, 10 world. 10 athletics, performing arts, church affiliation, and ethnicity. 11 11 Many OCU students receive top awards in their areas of 12 Deb Corr, director 12 study during their time at OCU, and most go on to shine as 13 13 leaders in their chosen career fields. 14 OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY 14 15 The 2014-15 academic year has been one of 15 Oklahoma City University is proud to be Oklahoma’s 16 introspection at Oklahoma City University, as the school 16 United Methodist university. 17 engaged in a year-long in-depth prioritization process with 17 18 the intent of increasing efficiencies, reducing redundancies, 18 Charles E. Neff, vice-president, University-Church Relations 19 leveraging resources, and reducing costs. The process 19 20 resulted in almost $2 million in annual savings as well as 20 OLDER ADULT MINISTRIES 21 strategies for better external communication and marketing, 21 The mission of the Conference Older Adult Ministries 22 centralized advancement efforts, and plans for new degree 22 Council is to resource churches and individuals in the Con- 23 programs. University leadership was also able to use the 23 ference on all aspects of aging and older adult ministries. Au- 24 insights from this process to create an overarching plan 24 diences include leaders in local church ministries, ministers 25 to restructure key academic and support units to create 25 and church staff, senior adults themselves, and adult children 26 further long-term savings. Additionally, the historic and 26 of seniors. These audiences are resourced primarily though 27 ongoing relationship of OCU and The United Methodist 27 the Conference website (click the “Older Adult Ministries” 28 Church through the Oklahoma Conference, the Oklahoma 28 tab under Ministry/Service). 29 Indian Missionary Conference, and Saint Paul School of 29 30 Theology was wholeheartedly affirmed with an emphasis 30 Resources on the site include links to websites of church, 31 on maintaining existing connections and exploring new 31 private, and public agencies that provide information 32 opportunities for growth. 32 on many topics related to senior adults, from health to 33 33 spirituality, from fraud to end-of-life concerns, to name just 34 OCU again enjoyed hosting Conference events 34 a few. People resources are listed, such as members of the 35 including Annual Conference, Mission U, Local Pastor’s 35 Council who are willing to speak at churches on various 36 Licensing School, Youth Force OKC, LEAD Seminars, 36 topics when invited as well as contact information for 37 OIMC Day, Project Transformation, Youth Service Day, 37 those who can serve as consultants for churches planning 38 and others. Throughout the year numerous faculty, staff, 38 ministries for, with, and by seniors. Finally, there is an 39 and students officially represented OCU at various United 39 extensive listing of books arranged under several topic 40 Methodist gatherings across the state, nation, and world, 40 headings. Human interest features and descriptions of best 41 including summer camps, annual conferences, workshops, 41 practices are included near the top of the Web page. 42 foreign universities, and in over 30 congregations for 42 43 worship, Sunday School, and special programs. Many 43 The other major means of resourcing churches and 44 more represented OCU unofficially by their weekly 44 individuals is through presentations at Re-Ignite district 45 participation in local churches and on Conference boards 45 training events. The Council looks forward to resuming 46 and committees. Additionally, several students actively 46 offering workshops at several sites in 2016. 47 served in local congregations as youth directors, children’s 47 48 ministers, choir members, and volunteers. And for the 48 George Shepherd and Gail Edmison, co-chairpersons 49 upcoming academic year, University-Church Relations has 49 50 been tasked with increasing the opportunities for students 50 SMALL MEMBERSHIP CHURCH COMMISSION 51 to engage in religious life on and off campus, through 51 In preparation for 2015 Annual Conference, the Small 52 stronger partnerships with United Methodist congregations; 52 Membership Church Commission: 53 additional offerings for study, prayer, service, and fellowship; 53 54 and by pursuing plans to refurbish dormitory space for an 54 …is working with Conference Communications 55 interfaith residence hall and living-learning community. 55 Department in the written word, video, and requests for 56 56 DVD library materials beneficial to the smaller churches and 57 As to return on investment: for the $834,797 provided 57 all churches needing materials for loan. 58 to OCU through the Apportionments in 2013-14, $1.77 58 59 million was provided to United Methodist students in 59 …is developing visual and written materials applicable 60 the form of scholarships and tuition remission, and an 60 to the smaller churches and materials appropriate for the 52 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 small-membership churches. With the first year’s success, 1 COUNCIL ON YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY 2 we are continuing this endeavor. Our focus this year is “Joy 2 The Young Adult Ministry Council (YAMC) has contin- 3 through Missions and Ministry in the Small Membership 3 ued to focus on gathering young adults together for network- 4 Church.” Last year, even though 500 copies were printed, 4 ing and growth in discipleship. This has been accomplished 5 the supply was depleted within eight hours and a second 5 through regional gatherings and the Young Adult Retreat. 6 printing was accomplished. 6 We will continue to offer these gatherings. A group of Young 7 7 Adults met in January at Moore-First UMC for dreaming 8 …is continuing to support and encourage the Part-time 8 and visioning for Young Adult ministries, both in our local 9 Local Pastors Academy and provide the Book of Worship to 9 churches and on the Conference level. 10 participants. 10 The dates for Young Adult Retreat this summer are July 11 11 24-26 at Camp Egan. The cost will be $100, and the YAMC 12 …is continuing to partner with Evangelism and other 12 has scholarships available. Pastors and church leaders, if you 13 committees in the Home for Christmas program. 13 are sending young adults to youth camps or Youth Force this 14 14 summer, we are encouraging you to sponsor them for the 15 …is continuing to support district superintendent 15 Young Adult Retreat. 16 requests for hymnals on CD. 16 17 17 We have also sponsored young adults for leadership 18 …is continuing to receive grant requests for funds for 18 development and mission opportunities. In July 2014, 19 new mission and ministry projects. 19 our Conference sent a delegation of young adults and 20 20 leaders to the Global Young People’s Convocation in the 21 … is continuing to receive stipend requests for 21 Philippians. We helped to sponsor some of Oklahoma’s 22 continuing education funds for laity and clergy. 22 Wesley Foundation students at the NEXT conference in 23 23 Denver. NEXT brings together over 600 students from 24 …is continuing to network with other boards and 24 across the country to listen to God’s call on their lives and 25 agencies in a united effort to be effective. 25 to discern where they are being called to serve. We continue 26 26 to work with Sarah Nichols in her new position of working 27 … is continuing to work with Diana Northcutt in 27 with young adults through mission and service, and we will 28 ordering Discipleship Bible Study materials for the district 28 continue to support this ministry in the years to come. 29 superintendents to share with smaller congregations. This 29 30 approach also is being used with each of the UM Hymnals 30 On Nov. 6-7, 2015, in Tulsa, we plan to host a leadership 31 on CD. 31 conference for young adults. The conference will offer 32 32 opportunities for networking, worship, and the chance to 33 …is continuing to be prayerfully concerned about 33 hear from young adult speakers who are making an impact 34 attitude(s) toward the small and rural church – the church 34 for the Kingdom all across Oklahoma. 35 in which many of us were nurtured and the church that fits 35 36 the criteria of the majority of churches in Oklahoma. It is 36 Andy Henson, Matt Franks, co-chairpersons 37 Wesleyan to appreciate small groups and gatherings. 37 38 38 LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MINISTRY TEAM 39 …is continuing to have display tables about small- 39 The Leadership Development Ministry Team (LDMT) 40 membership church opportunities at Annual Conference 40 is dedicated to doing all we can to pursue and implement the 41 and is coordinating with United Methodist Rural Fellowship 41 second priority in our Conference’s Strategic Plan: 42 a small-membership church recognition luncheon at Annual 42 43 Conference, scheduled for noon Thursday, May 28, in the 43 “Invest in lay, clergy, and indigenous leadership; recruit, 44 OCU Bass Center Atrium. 44 assess, equip, and send.” 45 45 46 …is encouraging laity and clergy to be a part of a 46 Several essential ministry groups come under our 47 broader collection of ideas for insight and inspiration 47 umbrella: the Board of Laity, the Board of Ordained 48 on ways to be and grow disciples for Jesus Christ for the 48 Ministry, the Commission on the Status and Role of Women, 49 transformation of the world. 49 the Commission on Religion and Race, and the Nominations 50 50 Committee. We also celebrate the ongoing work of Saint 51 …is developing ways to create a strategy to network a 51 Paul School of Theology on the campus of Oklahoma City 52 materials exchange among churches that have surplus with 52 University, both as a seminary for clergy and as a resource 53 those who have need. (A Quartermaster Approach to Good 53 for leadership development for both laity and clergy. 54 Stewardship.) 54 55 55 In an effort to create Local Church Response Teams, 56 Members of the Small Membership Church 56 we are sponsoring a week of national-level training in 57 Commission appreciate your prayers, support, and 57 conflict mediation skills, Aug. 24-28, 2015, to be held at 58 understanding as we grow in grace and wisdom. 58 OKC-Church of the Servant. Our trainer will be Richard 59 59 Blackburn, the executive director of the Lombard Mennonite 60 Marsha Purtell, chairperson 60 Peace Center. These Local Church Response Teams will be 53 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 made up of laity and clergy with special expertise in helping 1 filmmaker Paul Saltzman. During that time we previewed 2 churches deal with any number of issues, including the 2 and discussed his two Emmy award-winning documentaries, 3 sudden death of a pastor, misconduct issues, staff problems, 3 “Prom Night in Mississippi” and the “Last White Knight.” 4 and polarizing conflicts that threaten the well-being of the 4 The day was filled with many shared experiences and 5 congregation. 5 emotions relating to the participants’ own stories of dealing 6 6 with prejudice. Because OCORR wanted to provide an event 7 We have completed the fifth year of Lead Seminars 7 that could be available to the entire Oklahoma Conference, 8 for new clergy and continuing clergy. This series of three 8 OCORR purchased the two documentaries and a companion 9 seminars is designed to address leadership, administration, 9 workbook, to be used by the local church. These are available 10 and practical church management topics. Our working 10 for free checkout from The DVD Library. Please use them. 11 relationship with Saint Paul School of Theology at OCU, 11 (www.okumc.org/dvd_library). 12 the Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference, the United 12 13 Methodist Foundation, and Oklahoma City University 13 We are in the midst of planning this year’s event, so stay 14 continues to produce helpful seminars. We consistently 14 tuned! I am quite excited and looking forward to welcoming 15 receive strong, positive feedback from our participants, who 15 the new members nominated to the Commission, and I can’t 16 appreciate the obvious applicability of the materials covered. 16 wait to see what they have to share. Please call on OCORR 17 17 if we can be of service to you and your church, and stop by 18 LDMT also has been a key part of the team that created 18 our booth to receive additional information during Annual 19 the Part-Time Local Pastors Academy, which we have been 19 Conference. 20 piloting since September 2012. As we look at the needs of 20 21 our many small churches, we know some may find they are 21 Rose Marie LeRoy, chairperson 22 unable to continue the financial support for an ordained 22 23 elder as the pastor. We are recruiting some wonderful laity 23 BOARD OF LAITY 24 who could see themselves as a bi-vocational pastor, retaining 24 The Board of Laity (BOL) members are spiritually 25 an ongoing day job and serving a small congregation in 25 motivated laity who are leading ministries that share’s 26 the area on weekends. The Academy’s third year has been 26 God’s love in local churches, communities, the Oklahoma 27 centered in Okmulgee because of the support of the district 27 Conference, and the world. The BOL focuses on encouraging 28 superintendent and the number of people interested in 28 and equipping Spirit-filled laity to lead their churches’ 29 participating from that part of the state. This Academy 29 ministry into the world. 30 meets monthly and includes an extensive educational 30 31 program plus opportunities to work on preaching skills. 31 Vital congregations are Spirit-filled, forward-leaning 32 These women and men will provide indigenous leadership 32 communities of believers that welcome all people (Galatians 33 for some of our small, creative, caring congregations. 33 3:28), make disciples of Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:18-20), 34 34 and serve like Christ through justice and mercy ministries 35 We continue to celebrate the Seminary Lite classes 35 (Micah 6:8; Luke 4:17-21). 36 for laity being offered by Saint Paul School of Theology at 36 37 multiple locations. In the past we have included the Re- 37 The BOL believes it must be a vital group of disciple- 38 Ignite Workshops for local church leaders, children, and 38 making believers also. The following are a few ministry 39 youth. The workshops were on hiatus this year, due to the 39 examples: “It Worked For Us”, Ministry Sunday, Laity Sunday, 40 many redistricting responsibilities. We are now engaged in 40 Networking, District Lay Leaders, Lay Servant Ministry, 41 evaluating this approach while considering other models 41 Youth Serving Ministries, United Methodist Women, United 42 of training for laity, too. We look forward to supporting 42 Methodist Men, and Youth of our Conference. These are 43 our lay and clergy leadership in ways that are valuable and 43 just a few examples of the ways that the BOL connects and 44 accessible, as we pursue reaching new people in new and 44 engages with laity to live out mission. 45 existing places. 45 46 46 We conducted an experiment this year by sponsoring 47 Dianne Peters, chairperson 47 a Conference-wide training event at OKC-St Luke’s UMC. 48 48 More than 200 people registered for the event. We offered 49 COMMISSION ON RELIGION AND RACE 49 worship highlighted by Bishop Hayes’ preaching. We created 50 What does the phrase “Love your neighbor” mean 50 a menu of eight classes that covered topics from “Uncovering 51 to you? What does Jesus expect of us, when He asks us to 51 The Leader in You” for lay leaders to “Exploring God’s Call.” 52 follow this commandment? Does it mean to accept people 52 The latter class had the second-highest attendance. 53 who do not look like us, or those who do not speak our 53 54 language, or those with different cultural traditions? 54 A brand-new award will honor a “Young Adult of the 55 55 Year” in the Conference. You are encouraged to nominate 56 The Commission on Religion and Race believes Christ 56 any Oklahoma United Methodist, between ages18 and 35, 57 calls us to all of the above. In 2014 our project was to 57 who is doing outstanding work in the Church and helping 58 educate and support the local church in addressing the issue 58 grow God’s Kingdom. 59 of prejudice. That October OCORR sponsored a thought- 59 60 provoking workshop on “Moving Beyond Prejudice”, by 60 The BOL supports the theme “On Fire To Serve” by 54 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 embracing Romans 12:11-13: “Do not lag in zeal, be ardent 1 in El Paso, Texas, and the General Board of Global Ministries 2 in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in 2 (GBGM). 3 suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the 3 4 saints; extend hospitality to strangers.” 4 It is quite remarkable the impact The United Methodist 5 5 Church is making through all of these avenues. There is no 6 The BOL has been “On Fire” as we encourage and 6 amount of dollars that can accurately value the reach of our 7 support those laity working alongside our clergy friends in 7 ministries and the breadth of work being done for sake of 8 each district to prepare the way as we anticipate the launch 8 God’s Kingdom. In the wide sweep of ministry being done, 9 date of the new eight districts. The vision has been cast, and 9 the MSMT never wavers from that essential purpose of 10 we are anxious to begin living into this new opportunity as 10 connecting the local church with God’s mission in the world. 11 we lean into the mission of making disciples. 11 Therefore, the MSMT seeks to train, connect, and invest all 12 12 of its resources so that every local church be equipped and 13 Chuck Stewart, Conference lay leader 13 deployed in the work of God. 14 14 15 MISSION AND SERVICE MINISTRY TEAM 15 The MSMT also takes time to celebrate what local 16 Jesus said, “Go into the world and make disciples.” 16 churches are already doing in mission. The All-Star Church 17 Beginning at the 1996 General Conference, the mission of 17 Recognition Program spotlights local-church faithfulness 18 The United Methodist Church has been this very word: “to 18 in supporting mission through the Six Special Sundays, the 19 make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the 19 Advance and UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on 20 world.” Joining God in the work of salvation in the world 20 Relief), and the Covenant Relationship program (connecting 21 is at the core of our ethos as United Methodist Christians, 21 local churches with General Board of Global Ministries 22 believing fully that every United Methodist is called to 22 missionaries). 23 mission. 23 24 24 The MSMT cannot express with enough joy the 25 The Mission and Service Ministry Team (MSMT) 25 unparalleled support for our mission personnel. These are 26 of the Oklahoma Conference is charged with the work 26 GBGM missionaries connected to the Oklahoma Conference 27 of connecting local churches to places of God’s mission. 27 who are leading the way in God’s transformational grace in 28 This mission is being fulfilled in their communities and 28 the world. Our missionary personnel include: Fuxia Wang 29 beyond, even to the ends of the earth. Indeed, the local 29 (in her ministry to Chinese families residing in and around 30 church is the primary venue through which disciple-making 30 the OU campus/community), Kristen Brown (With Christ 31 happens. This means that if we are going to take Jesus’ words 31 at the Checkpoint in Palestine), Marsha Alexander (serving 32 seriously, we must extend outward from each particular 32 in the Philippines as director of Asbury College), Carlos 33 location to reach more and diverse people with the Good 33 Ramirez (in his ministry with Hispanic/Latino churches 34 News of Jesus Christ. The local church is the first place of 34 here in Oklahoma), and Kristen Thorsen and Ceewin 35 mission, making a real and lasting difference in the lives of 35 Lauder, our energetic US-2 interns (young adult global 36 countless people at home and beyond. The MSMT joyfully 36 missionaries). Karen Distefano, our Conference Secretary 37 takes up this task of connecting disciples on the ground 37 of Global Ministries, continues to lead us as one of the most 38 with God’s work in any and every location they may find 38 well-respected conference secretaries of global mission in 39 themselves. 39 the global church. Her astounding work links the Oklahoma 40 40 Conference (and by extension, our local churches) to the 41 The MSMT functions as a resourcing entity for local 41 objectives of the General Board of Global Ministries. 42 churches and relates to various bodies across the Oklahoma 42 43 Conference. Astounding and life-changing work is done 43 This past year, the MSMT has supported many initiatives 44 for God’s Kingdom thanks to the commitment and 44 that work to support our core mission of making disciples 45 faithfulness of these various bodies and agencies. Under 45 and transforming the world. With a continued emphasis 46 the MSMT umbrella are: Circle of Care, Criminal Justice 46 on Ecumenical and Interfaith ministries, the work of the 47 & Mercy Ministries, The Office of Mission (overseeing 47 Oklahoma Conference of Churches, Interfaith Alliance, 48 Volunteers in Mission, Disaster Response, Hispanic/Latino 48 and Tulsa Metropolitan Ministries has been strengthened, 49 Ministries, Bolivia/Oklahoma Partnership, Prevent/Recover 49 fortifying our denominational commitment to Ecumenical 50 Ministries, and Youth Force), Cookson Hills Center, Skyline 50 and Interfaith dialogue, support, and ministry. This area is 51 Urban Ministry, Restore Hope, Neighborhood Services 51 ably led by Jeannie Himes and Twila Gibbens. 52 Organization, Young Adult Missionary Recruitment, 52 53 Ecumenical and Interfaith Concerns (relating to groups 53 Under the leadership of Tom Hoffman, we continue to 54 such as Oklahoma Conference of Churches, Tulsa 54 support Missional Micro-Communities, the first of which – 55 Metropolitan Ministries, and Interfaith Alliance), and the 55 the Anchorhold – has been launched in Tulsa. This ministry 56 Board of Church & Society. 56 gathers together a community of committed Christians 57 57 into a residential setting for prayer, service, and worship 58 MSMT also relates to United Methodist continuing-care 58 that truly intersects with the neighborhood around them to 59 retirement communities and nursing homes, the Oklahoma 59 bring the Gospel into the everyday, walking-around lives of 60 Indian Missionary Conference, the Lydia Patterson Institute 60 people. 55 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 Finally, the MSMT moved forward in the new area 1 drinking, I wouldn’t come around. In April of 2002, after 2 of Young Adult Missionary Service and Discernment. 2 my fourth DUI (driving under the influence), I got sent to 3 One immediate fruit of this is the young adult US2 3 prison. The staff at the Center advocated for me at court, they 4 interns serving right here in Oklahoma. Oklahoma has 4 drove me to appointments, and they wrote letters while I was 5 truly gained a global reputation as a place of missionary 5 locked up. I wish I had quit drinking 10 or 15 years ago; my 6 activity, especially for young people. Our director of 6 life would have been real different.” 7 Young Adult Mission and Service, Sara Nichols, is doing 7 8 groundbreaking work in the recruitment of more 8 I finished my coffee as Timmy finished his story, and I 9 young people into active service of the Church, either 9 realized that the ministry here at Cookson has made a big 10 through missionary commitments or other pathways 10 difference in his life — not just for a short time, but for more 11 of service. She is also responsible for being the central 11 that 45 years. 12 director for Project Transformation, which empowers 12 13 local churches dually to reach out into their communities 13 This is one of many stories like it, stories that people 14 for underserved children and to engage young adults in 14 tell of life-changing experiences through the Cookson 15 this work of changing communities by God’s gracious 15 Hills Center because the people of The United Methodist 16 missional activity. 16 Church saw the need to reach out to the Cherokee people of 17 17 the Cherokee, Adair, and Sequoyah Counties. Our work is 18 With anticipation, joy, and renewed commitment, the 18 reaching people for Christ. 2014 was a very successful year, 19 MSMT looks forward to the upcoming year of mission. 19 not for us but for the Kingdom. 20 We celebrate all that has been accomplished with our 20 21 institutional, partnering, and related agencies. All this is 21 Meri Whitaker 22 being done to make disciples and to transform the world. 22 23 23 24 Barry Bennett, chairperson 24 CRIMINAL JUSTICE & MERCY MINISTRIES 25 25 2014 was a great year for CJAMM. Since last Annual 26 COOKSON HILLS CENTER 26 Conference, 14 new United Methodists were made among 27 It had turned chilly, and so we were sitting in my office, 27 our three Redemption Churches. We also celebrate the 28 having a cup of coffee and putting off going back outside to 28 fruits of our Exodus Houses. These transitional-living 29 work. “Man, you’ve been around here a long time, Timmy.” I 29 facilities specialize in ministering to high-risk offenders, who 30 remarked. “How long have you been a part of the Center?” 30 typically demonstrate about a 30 percent prison recidivism 31 31 rate. However, among the graduates of our program, less 32 Timmy leaned back in the chair, thought for a few 32 than 4 percent returned to prison. CJAMM also offers 33 minutes, and then he responded, “The first time I remember 33 a wide variety of life-skill classes that provide people in 34 coming around here was when I was just a little kid. I went 34 prison opportunities to reduce the number of days they 35 to Cookson School (it used to be next door), and this place 35 spend incarcerated. As a result of these classes and Exodus 36 was the school library. We would come over here and check 36 Houses, CJAMM saved taxpayers about $1,000,000 a year. 37 out books. Sometimes I still go back there and look at the 37 More importantly, the Kingdom of God was glorified. This 38 cards in the books… I know all them people that checked 38 translates into safer environments for our families, brighter 39 them out. 39 futures and second chances for people, and a resounding 40 40 response to Christ’s call to love “the least of these” who are 41 “There was always a nurse on call here to help people, 41 members of his family. 42 and this was also the place where we all got our shots. I 42 43 remember lining up in the hallway here and waiting for our 43 Also, New Day Camp is coming up soon and we are 44 turn. Man, we were scared! 44 always looking for volunteers. New Day One takes place 45 45 June 7-12, and New Day Too takes place July 19-24. Every 46 “My mom always bought all of our clothes here at the 46 summer, our New Day Camp serves over 125 children of 47 Center, too. Sometimes we would come home the first of 47 incarcerated parents and, since its inception, has ministered 48 the month and mom would have a new pair of jeans or 48 to over a thousand of these forgotten victims of crime. Please 49 something for us. I remember coming to the youth program 49 join us for an amazing week. 50 in the summer, and the year I turned 16, four of us boys 50 51 wanted to take our driver’s test but we didn’t have a car, so 51 We also celebrate the hard work that local United 52 the lady that was the missionary here loaned us hers. 52 Methodist churches do in prison ministry all around the 53 53 state. Nearly 90 percent of the prisons, correctional centers, 54 “All my life I have done odd jobs for the Center. 54 halfway houses, and work centers in Oklahoma have a 55 Whenever I needed money, I would go to the Center and 55 United Methodist presence in them; and 216 Oklahoma 56 cut wood, rake leaves, fix cars, or borrow it. Then in 1986, I 56 United Methodist local churches participated in prison 57 helped to build that lodge out there. 57 ministry beyond apportionment support for CJAMM. God 58 58 is good! 59 “I have a problem with alcohol, and I would come 59 60 around when I was sober and get some help, but if I was 60 Adam Leathers, executive director 56 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 CIRCLE OF CARE 1 1 to “restore families in financial crisis to economic and 2 The year 2014 consisted of new opportunities and the 2 spiritual vitality.” 3 implementation of a statewide expansion plan for Circle 3 4 of Care. The Child SHARE program recruits, trains, and 4 PROGRAM SUMMARY 5 supports new foster homes through our subcontract with 5 6 the State of Oklahoma’s Department of Human Services. 6 Homeless Prevention: When a family faces an 7 Through a successful challenge grant, Circle of Care was 7 unexpected loss of income, eviction and homelessness are 8 able to raise seed money to start Child SHARE in several 8 a very real and daunting threat. Restore Hope helps those 9 new regions of the state. Oklahoma has been overwhelmed 9 families with individual case management and emergency 10 with the number of children coming into state custody. As 10 rental assistance, working with landlords and families to 11 of the writing of this report, there are approximately 12,000 11 help the family keep their home. Last year, we provided 12 children in the foster care system. Our expansion is aligned 12 $299,822 in assistance and other support to prevent eviction 13 with the state’s goal to recruit new foster homes and keep 13 for 721 families. Nationally, similar programs average 70 14 kids out of county shelters. The reimbursement Circle of 14 percent success in this effort. Last year we were 100 percent 15 Care receives for this work will continue to increase as we 15 successful! Not one client became homeless after our help! 16 recruit more homes. 16 17 17 Hunger Reduction: Restore Hope maintains a bountiful 18 Alongside this expansion, Circle of Care continues to 18 food pantry of choice, supplemented with fresh produce 19 provide high-quality, campus-based foster care and support 19 from our on-site garden, milk from local grocery stores, and 20 for higher education at the Children’s Home and Boys 20 even eggs from local farmers. We also try to provide basic 21 Ranch. The Holsinger Home serves children in need. Our 21 needs items such as diapers and soap to best help families 22 Pearl’s Hope program continues to serve single homeless 22 in need. Last year, we distributed over 168,000 pounds of 23 mothers and their children. And our community outreach 23 food to 4,517 families to reduce hunger in their household. 24 services respond to calls from the community to address 24 Thanks to Chris Ruddell, we also created and implemented 25 crisis situations. 25 an Android app that we use to help make our pantry of 26 26 choice more efficient and effective. 27 In 2014, our Child SHARE program: 27 28 • Served 138 foster families with 216 children, and 86 28 Hope Promotion: When a crisis strikes, it is emotionally 29 adoptive families 29 damaging, and asking for help can be difficult. Restore Hope 30 • Served 41 community foster homes with 83 30 addresses this through daily chapel services, volunteer prayer 31 children 31 counselors, and chapel staff. Last year, 2,053 clients came to 32 • Totaled 6,227 child days in care for community 32 our optional chapel services. In addition, we gave out 602 33 foster care 33 Bibles (another increase from previous years) and referred 34 34 158 clients to local churches. 35 Our Boys Ranch and Children’s Home: 35 36 • Totaled 3,820 child days in care for campus foster 36 Extra Helpings of Hope 37 care 37 38 • Totaled 5,351 days in care for Independent Living 38 $81,995 in School Supplies for 2,549 students 39 39 $39,437 in Food for Thanksgiving Baskets for 603 families 40 Our Frances E. Willard campus: 40 $15,000 in Christmas gifts for 153 children 41 • Served 20 women with 38 children in our Pearl’s 41 42 Hope program 42 TOTAL INCOME: $1,151,638 43 • Totaled 908 days in care for Independent Living 43 ($803,481 cash; $262,816 in-kind; $85,341 volunteer hours) 44 44 Individuals and Groups...... 42 percent 45 Circle of Care has been able to serve children and 45 Grants...... 30 percent 46 families in crisis situations because of our deep and valued 46 U.M. Congregations...... 11 percent 47 relationship with the Oklahoma United Methodist Church. 47 U.M. Apportionments...... 10 percent 48 Countless pastors, individual churches, and church groups 48 Volunteers...... 7 percent 49 have made tremendous gifts of time and treasure to make this 49 50 ministry possible. Thank you for your continued support, and 50 EXPENSES: $1,343,502 51 we look forward to increasing our impact in 2015. 51 Program...... 89 percent 52 52 Administration...... 10 percent 53 Donald R. Batson, president/CEO 53 Fundraising ...... 1 percent 54 54 55 RESTORE HOPE MINISTRIES, TULSA 55 89 percent of all donations go directly toward 56 Since 1978 Restore Hope Ministries has been helping 56 programming for our client families. 57 Tulsa families overcome unexpected financial crises through 57 58 our homeless prevention initiative, hunger reduction 58 Financial crises can happen to anyone, but middle- to 59 program, hope promotion, and some extra helpings of hope 59 low-income working families are especially vulnerable, with 60 through seasonal events. All of this is to fulfill our mission 60 fewer extra dollars to save in emergency funds. By giving 57 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 a hand up to families with limited resources, we help our 1 provided for 98 families (consisting of 410 people). The Eye 2 community restore hope and vitality. We are proud of what 2 Clinic gave exams to 1,055 people and provided 779 pairs of 3 we do and believe that our success rate speaks for itself. Our 3 glasses, 50 of which were free for children, and the clinic now 4 clients often share their success stories through thank-you 4 is “state of the art,” with over $30,000 in new equipment. 5 cards, unexpected “repayments,” and donations — even 5 6 years later. Especially when we get those cards, etc., we 6 Skyline’s goals for 2015 are to continue to serve and 7 know we are working toward fulfilling our mission and truly 7 empower those who live in the margins and to improve in 8 helping restore hope for families in need. 8 the areas of messaging, marketing, and development to invite 9 9 others to answer their call to ministry and service among 10 We would love for you to visit (in person or at www. 10 the poor and disenfranchised. Skyline continues to work 11 restorehope.org) and learn more about the exciting work 11 diligently to be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ to those in 12 happening at Restore Hope Ministries. Thank you for your 12 need and to be a place to serve for those who have the desire 13 support! 13 to serve. 14 14 15 Jeff Jaynes, executive director 15 Claudia Lovelace, executive director 16 16 17 SKYLINE URBAN MINISTRY, OKLAHOMA CITY 17 UNITED METHODIST WOMEN 18 18 The Oklahoma Conference United Methodist Women 19 This year with the energy that comes with new 19 continue to work on the district realignment. UMW district 20 opportunity, Skyline re-affirmed our mission: to impact lives, 20 transition teams for the eight new districts have been 21 empower those in need, and address the roots of poverty in 21 working since February to nominate the district officer slates, 22 Oklahoma! 22 propose budgets and Pledges to Mission, and write standing 23 23 rules. The district organizations changed their elected officer 24 Recognizing the chance for us to be a vehicle for 24 structure, mirroring the Conference officer structure, as 25 change and an avenue for others to connect and share in 25 of Jan. 1, 2015. United Methodist Women’s changes will be 26 discipleship with those in poverty, Skyline recruited and 26 effective Jan. 1, 2016. I appreciate all those women who have 27 hosted over 62 volunteer groups and logged a total of 23,000 27 agreed to give extra time to make the transition possible. 28 individual volunteer hours in all areas of our ministry: 28 Organizational meetings of the eight districts will happen 29 Clothes Closet, Food Resource Center, Eye Clinic, Prime 29 following lunch at the Conference UMW Annual Meeting, 30 Timers, Clothes 4 Kids, Prom Dress Event, and Christmas 30 Oct. 3, 2015, at Woodward-First United Methodist Church. 31 Grace. These volunteer hours represent over $391,000, but 31 All local units are being asked to send at least two women 32 even more in lives touched and transformed. 32 to the Annual Meeting so that the new districts will be well 33 33 represented to conduct the business necessary for a great 34 While demand for services has increased in all areas of 34 start in January 2016. 35 our ministry, our capital campaign goal of $1 million was 35 36 met in full, and Skyline was able to expand and consolidate 36 The 2014 Mission u was July 18-21 at Oklahoma City 37 services in one location this year. In October 2014, what had 37 University. There were over 200 participants studying “How 38 been a long-term goal for more than 10 years was achieved 38 Is It With Your Soul,” “The Roma of Europe,” and “The 39 when Skyline’s Food Resource Center and Eye Clinic 39 Church and People with Disabilities,” which youths and 40 moved into our new addition debt-free at S.E. 15th St.! The 40 children also studied. 41 Food Resource Center, along with the former Community 41 42 Cupboard at Eighth Street, provided food for 18,500 people 42 The 2014 Conference Annual Meeting was held at Ada- 43 even though those and our eye clinic were closed more 43 FirstUMC, hosted by the Ada and Ardmore District United 44 than two months as they relocated. Skyline’s other services 44 Methodist Women. Judy Benson was our keynote speaker. 45 continued largely unabated by the construction, even 45 Mission reports were given by Meri Whitaker, Cookson Hill 46 though there were major adjustments due to influx of clients 46 Center; Fuxia Wang, UM Chinese Fellowship in Norman; 47 and merging of phones, databases, and offices. 47 and Stacey Ninness, director/CEO of Neighborhood Services 48 48 Organization (NSO) in Oklahoma City. District Officer 49 The meal program, Prime Timers, continued to provide 49 Training was conducted during an extended lunch hour. 50 over 1,900 meals to senior citizens, with openings for 156 50 Those attending who were not district officers attended 51 groups to serve three days per week; the Clothes Closet, 51 special emphasis groups on “Domestic Violence,” “Sexual 52 using in-kind donations, provided clothing for more than 52 Assault and Stalking,” and “Positive Results of Mixing 53 2,400 individuals and received more than $14,000 (most in 53 Generations (Aging Parents/Elder Issues).” 54 50-cent increments) in donations; Clothes 4 Kids increased 54 55 its service to children and opportunities to be the hands 55 The 2014 Social Justice Event at The Christ Experience 56 and feet of Christ by providing new school uniforms and 56 UMC, June 21, in Oklahoma City, explored our concern 57 school supplies to 829 kids, an increase of 144 over last year; 57 and actions addressing racial justice, immigration issues, 58 Christmas Grace programs increased by approximately 58 and human trafficking. Leadership for the day was by Janis 59 10 percent, with 198 families (consisting of 910 people 59 Rosheuvel of the UMW National Office, Carlos Ramirez, and 60 including 34 Prime Timers); and our Christmas Store 60 Amanda Hawthorne of Wilburton-First UMC. 58 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 Toole Tyme, our annual weekend in mission service 1 cultural awareness, spiritual formation through mission, the 2 at Cookson Hills Center, set another attendance record, 2 issues of poverty, charity, and justice, and effective faith- 3 with approximately 180 women, men, and youth volunteers 3 sharing in the mission context, all based in a sound theology 4 completing tasks equal to over six months of work by a full- 4 of mission. 5 time employee. 5 6 6 To this end, we continue to invest heavily in our team- 7 Neighborhood Santa Operation in December was 7 leader training and are moving toward providing a basic 8 a big success, with women helping prepare for the NSO 8 module as a requirement for certification as a team leader, 9 client Christmas by wrapping gifts, filling stockings, and 9 and then providing additional enrichment modules for 10 making recipe mixes. A big thank-you to the NSO staff 10 which team leaders can enroll. 11 and volunteers and to OKC-Wesley UMC for the use of its 11 12 facilities. 12 As adopted by the Annual Conference a few years ago, 13 13 team leaders also are now required to re-certify every four 14 The 2015 Spiritual Growth Retreat was held at Canyon 14 years. If they have led teams during their prior four-year 15 Camp April 24-26, with study leader and Conference UMW 15 certification period, they are able to re-certify online. This 16 musician Judy Horne of Oklahoma City. 16 module is now in effect and is being used for the first time 17 17 for leaders whose terms fall due this year. We also have 18 We are 9,600 members strong. We had a total of 18 added to our team-leader certification and recertification 19 $330,059.41 in total mission giving forwarded to the UMW 19 process the provisions of applicable Safe Sanctuaries policies. 20 National Office. We exceeded our Conference Pledge to 20 Furthermore, all team leaders are now subject to background 21 Mission for the first time in several years. 21 checks as part of our continued attempts to maintain the 22 22 highest possible best-practices model for this ministry. 23 The 2015 Conference theme is “Fully Rely On God: 23 24 Leaping Into UMW’s Future,” based on 1 John 4:16. 24 Oklahoma Disaster Response 25 25 26 2015 Goals 26 The major focus of this aspect of our ministry continues 27 27 to be the interagency cooperative recovery project called 28 1. Conference officers will work to increase attendance 28 the Oklahoma Disaster Response Project (ODRP). Working 29 by district officers at all 2014 Conference events by 10 29 under the Red Cross’ leadership, this project has been 30 percent. 30 responsible for the vast commitment to case management, 31 31 volunteer management, and construction project 32 2. 75 percent of districts will scholarship a young 32 management for the May 2013 victims of the El Reno/ 33 woman and a district officer to all Conference events. 33 Moore/Shawnee tornado and related events. 34 34 35 3. 90 percent of local units will submit reports to district 35 While this will be winding down by the time conference 36 coordinators by February 1 of each year. 36 arrives, there will indeed be more work to do to finish the job 37 37 after the partnership dissolves. To this end, our own Disaster 38 2015 Hands-on Project, “There Is Joy in the Doing — 38 Response team is committed to being there until the end. 39 Life in the Being” 39 We are also seeking creative ways to mitigate against future 40 40 disasters by applying remaining resources to infrastructure 41 Gift cards to be equally divided between Cookson Hills 41 that will keep us in a ready state. 42 Center and Neighborhood Services Organization. 42 43 43 Youth Force 44 2015 Pledge to Mission: $290,000. 44 45 45 Under Keith King’s experienced leadership, this 46 Cindy Hull, president 46 group continues to impact positively the lives of the youth 47 THE OFFICE OF MISSION 47 volunteers and those whose homes are renovated through 48 The Office of Mission continues to seek to use the skills, 48 this exciting Conference-wide program. 49 expertise, and passion for Christian service of every one of 49 50 its staff to the benefit of the local churches of the Oklahoma 50 Bolivian/Oklahoma Partnership 51 Conference. It is a privilege to work with this group as 51 52 they commit so much of their lives to the tasks at hand in 52 While David Stephenson’s leadership of this, the most 53 supporting our churches in effective mission and service. 53 extensive of our mission partnerships, comes to a close at 54 54 Annual Conference with his pending retirement, there is 55 Oklahoma Volunteers In Mission 55 a strong commitment of the Office of Mission to ensure 56 56 that we do all we can to build upon the work that has gone 57 As this ministry has matured over the years, the 57 before. The leadership of the Bolivian Methodist Church 58 focus has sharpened on its need to prepare excellent team 58 has expressed its profound gratitude to Rev. Stephenson for 59 leaders who are not only well-versed in the logistics of team 59 his work amongst them these past 28 or so years — and that 60 preparation and leadership, but also in vital skills of cross- 60 gratitude is echoed strongly within our own Conference. 59 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 Already, plans are under way to ensure those from 1 Jeremy Basset, director 2 Oklahoma who have shown deep commitment to this work 2 Richard Norman, associate director 3 will be a part of our new strategy going forward, as we show 3 Carlos Ramirez, associate director 4 our Bolivian brothers and sisters that we are with them for 4 Gene Brantley, associate director 5 the long haul. 5 6 6 7 Hispanic/Latino Ministry 7 DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS 8 8 Communicating the good news of Jesus Christ in ever- 9 While reported on separately in detail elsewhere, it 9 increasing ways is the goal of the Conference Department 10 needs to be noted here that Carlos Ramirez’ work impacts 10 of Communications. We started the past year with a 11 powerfully on the Office of Mission team as he challenges us 11 free breakfast seminar at the 2014 Annual Conference. 12 to think and act multiculturally and as he intersects his work 12 About 80 people learned about “Tools for Increasing Your 13 with that of our Young Adult Mission and Service and other 13 Church’s Vitality” from United Methodist Communications 14 areas. 14 (UMCOM), and each received a free copy of the book “Vital 15 15 Congregations” by this year’s Annual Conference guest 16 Our Conference is acknowledged to be a leader in 16 preacher, Jorge Acevedo. 17 integrating ethnic minority work within the full life of the 17 18 Conference as we explore new models to build and sustain 18 Moving to a digital Pre-Conference Workbook and 19 such churches. 19 Agenda in 2014 resulted in a savings of almost $6,000 over 20 20 the 2013 Conference publication costs. 21 Prevent/Recover Ministry 21 22 22 The staff produced 43 videos and numerous PowerPoint 23 This restructured ministry addressing addiction 23 presentations for the 2014 Annual Conference, as well as 20 24 issues is emerging, focusing on developing training and 24 other videos. Continuing growth in requests for assistance 25 certification programs for laity and clergy who wish to 25 in preparation of video presentations is a great indicator that 26 engage in the work of addiction prevention and recovery 26 our AV team is doing a wonderful and needed job. 27 education in their congregations and communities. 27 28 Seminars have been held and are being arranged around 28 Totals for the print and digital readership of the Contact 29 the Conference to listen and learn what congregations are 29 newspaper shows the great interest in connectional news. 30 expressing as their needs in this area, so that we might 30 Approximately 7,500 print copies are mailed, and Contact 31 better target our work to addressing those needs. A major 31 Digest averages 2,675 sent per digital issue. Contact issues 32 conference is planned for Fall 2016. 32 in PDF format are being archived on the website, allowing 33 33 anyone to search and find a past issue, story, or photo. 34 Project Transformation/Young Adult Mission and Service 34 35 35 Our timely move to the new responsive okumc.org 36 With a new executive leadership of Sarah Nichols and 36 website, which allows optimum viewing on multiple mobile 37 Charlie Ludden, respectively the director and associate 37 devices and desktop computers, was both a technical 38 director, Project Transformation has shown enormous 38 triumph and a cost savings. Because we were one of the first 39 strides in the past year. A new Board has brought great 39 conferences to make that conversion, we did so for $13,000 40 support to the new team, and we believe this ministry 40 less than BrickRiver is charging today. 41 is poised for significant growth in the coming years. 41 42 Financially it is back on a sound footing. 42 Conference Director of Communications Joseph Harris 43 43 took an active part in work with task force and Cabinet 44 The two executive staff also operate as the directors of 44 members on district realignment and in an UMCOM 45 our Young Adult Mission and Service program, and in this 45 conference directors’ program in Nashville. 46 aspect they give their time to developing relationships with 46 47 GBGM’s Young Adult program. In part, this provides Global 47 The Communications Board congratulates our staff for 48 Mission Fellows for two years of service to a number of 48 another great year and looks forward to an ever-growing 49 projects in our Conference. The Office of Mission serves as 49 communications ministry in the year ahead. 50 one a few key program affiliates with GBGM for this work 50 51 and promises to provide an ongoing source of superbly 51 Sam Welch, chairperson 52 qualified young adults to work among us. 52 53 53 DEPARTMENT OF 54 Mission and Service Ministry Team 54 CONGREGATIONAL DEVELOPMENT 55 55 While there are many signs of life in our annual 56 The Office of Mission continues to serve as the 56 conference, one of the more disturbing trends in recent 57 executive arm of the Mission and Service Ministry Team, 57 years is the decline in worship attendance. Every year for the 58 which uses its staff to give effect to MSMT’s decisions and 58 past six years, Oklahoma has lost 1,069 in average worship 59 actions where needed. 59 attendance (equal to the worship at a church about the size 60 60 of McFarlin UMC). Reversing this trend will take intentional 60 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 effort by every local church and a concerted effort by our 1 AFRICA UNIVERSITY 2 annual conference in planting new, sustainable churches. 2 Africa University is grateful to the leadership and 3 3 local congregations of the Oklahoma Conference for 4 New churches are the best hope for us to reach new 4 their investment in the Africa University Fund (AUF) 5 people. In 2013, Oklahoma Conference reported 11 5 apportionment in 2014. Thank you for investing 89.38 6 churches that averaged between 300 and 400 in worship, 6 percent of the asking to the AUF. 7 with a total of 55 non-confirmation professions of faith. 7 8 In its first five years, CrossTimbers UMC, our new church 8 As you gather for the 2015 Annual Conference, we 9 plant in Moore, received 85 professions of faith! New 9 urge you to set a goal of 100 percent support for the Africa 10 churches are our best hope for reaching new people. 10 University Fund and other shared ministries. By continuing to 11 11 invest, you keep Africa University in the forefront of disciple- 12 God wants us to bring new life to our neighbors 12 making, leadership formation, and positive change in Africa. 13 throughout Oklahoma. Part of the success of early 13 14 American Methodism was a willingness to go to where 14 Student Enrollment: Full-time student enrollment at 15 the people were. We must continue that practice. 15 Africa University held steady in 2014, with 1,478 young men 16 Congregational Development is committed to using our 16 and women from 25 African countries. Female students 17 demographic studies to see where our neighbors are … not 17 were a record 53.4 percent of the total enrollment — worth 18 only in growing metropolitan areas, but also in the areas 18 celebrating in a context where women consistently lag 19 of our state where diversity and racial ethnic groups are 19 behind men in access to higher education. 20 present. 20 21 21 Graduation: In June 2014, 480 young people were 22 Successful new churches are neither easy nor simple. 22 awarded degrees from Africa University at the 20th graduation 23 There are many critical ingredients for a new church to 23 ceremony, bringing the total number of alumni to just under 24 flourish. We need strong leadership from a church planter, 24 5,300. Without your support, a college education would have 25 a team of people (either staff or laity from an existing 25 been unattainable for the majority of these students. 26 congregation), a great, strategic location, good timing, and 26 27 an adaptability to face a variety of challenges. Finally, we 27 Training and Research: Africa University remains a 28 need to support one another. 28 sought-after partner in addressing critical skills and capacity 29 29 gaps in sub-Saharan Africa. A collaboration with the Raoul 30 We are currently involved in 10 projects across 30 Wallenberg Institute in Sweden supports a new master’s 31 the Conference. These projects consist of new church 31 degree program in Human Rights, Peace, and Development. 32 starts, satellites of existing churches, restarting existing 32 Africa University is also preparing to launch its first 33 congregations, developing new planters, and establishing 33 Ph.D. program, which links issues of Peace, Leadership, 34 new visions in new places. We have worked diligently to 34 Governance, and Development, and targets policymakers. 35 enable our district superintendents to be key missional 35 36 strategists. The result of this work is the identification 36 Leadership and Service: Africa University graduates 37 of seven additional projects that deserve funding 37 are answering the call to serve, heal, and uplift communities. 38 consideration. We are now faced with the dilemma of 38 Currently, more than a dozen graduates are serving as Global 39 “where” to fund new projects. We can no longer operate 39 Mission Fellows and missionaries in Africa, Europe, and 40 on a first-come/first-served basis. A Conference strategy is 40 Latin America. 41 mandated. 41 42 42 For every individual who has been touched by the 43 We have also advanced two additional ideas that we 43 ministry that is Africa University, there are many others — 44 believe are necessary for growth. One is the addition of 44 tens of thousands, in fact — who are awaiting the miracle of 45 a full-time director of Congregational Development to 45 an answered prayer. 46 enable the Conference strategy and support our ongoing 46 47 growth. Second, with missional realignment, we believe we 47 Your 2014 shortfall in the Apportionment to the AUF, 48 need to restructure the Department into a more efficient 48 $5,063.40, is almost equivalent to one year’s fees for a student 49 entity. 49 at Africa University. Sadly, it represents an unrealized 50 50 opportunity to equip a young man or woman for meaningful 51 Our God has called us to make disciples of Jesus 51 citizenship and service. 52 Christ for the transformation of the world. To transform 52 53 the world, we must transform our state. To transform 53 Your gifts matter. Please remain steadfast in your efforts 54 our state, we must recall our heritage as Methodists 54 to invest 100 percent of your asking in the AUF. Thank you 55 by embracing the risks of church planting and fully 55 for what you have already done and for what you will do in 56 committing to reach new people, younger people, and 56 the future. May God bless and keep you always in abundance. 57 more diverse people who are on fire to serve! 57 58 58 James H. Salley, 59 Brad Humphrey, chairperson 59 associate vice chancellor for Institutional Advancement 60 Chuck Nordean, director 60 [email protected] | www.support-africauniversity.org 61 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 ANNUAL CONFERENCE CORPORATION 1 1 Juarez, throughout the jurisdiction, and beyond. Distinguished 2 “On Fire To Serve” is the theme for Annual Conference 2 alums were honored as were the faculty, parents, and board 3 2015 and the underlying desire of the Annual Conference 3 members. The highlights of the evening were the words of 4 Corporation. As individual members, we desire that our 4 encouragement and praise by our Congressman Beto O’Roark 5 lives and our role in the Annual Conference structure helps 5 and former first Lady Laura Bush. 6 provide the best possible environment for our local churches 6 7 to be “On Fire To Serve” our Lord in communities across 7 As a part of this celebration, LPI is engaged in a $15 8 Oklahoma and the world. 8 million campaign for the renovation of its facilities and 9 9 development and enhancement of new programs. The 10 We ask questions such as: 10 funds raised will build a new chapel and fine arts center, a 11 • Are available resources being utilized for maximum 11 new science lab, a computer lab, and a media and research 12 effectiveness for God’s mission of “Making Disciples for 12 center. Fourteen classrooms have already been renovated and 13 Jesus Christ for the Transformation of the World”? 13 equipped with the infrastructure for the latest technology. 14 14 15 • How can we most effectively utilize our resources to 15 This year, we introduced the ELPILearn program. We 16 reach more people, more diverse people, younger people 16 believe this is the only program of its kind in the country. 17 for Jesus Christ? How might the Oklahoma Conference 17 The program was designed to add a middle school to our 18 help the local church be effective in its ministry of 18 existing high school. Students will now be learning English 19 disciple-making? 19 while they are introduced to the core subjects of the seventh 20 20 and eights grades. We made news in El Paso with the 21 • In what ways can the Oklahoma Conference best 21 introduction of computer tablets and SmartBoards to the 22 support the local churches? 22 classroom, and LPI is the only school in the area to replace 23 23 textbooks with e-books. The program development plan will 24 • What is God’s vision for the Oklahoma Conference five, 24 bring the same state-of-the-art technology to the ninth- and 25 ten, 20 years in the future? 25 10th-graders in the next school year and the 11th- and 12th- 26 26 graders in 2016. 27 • What steps must be put in place that might best 27 28 implement God’s vision? 28 The accomplishments to date have been made possible 29 29 by the gifts and pledges of friends, both local and throughout 30 For the past three years, we’ve been asking those questions, 30 the country, and the commitment of several annual 31 discussing the possibilities, and recommending action in 31 conferences to the capital campaign. The addition of the 32 certain areas. We are grateful for your affirmation at the 2014 32 middle school was funded through a commitment of the 33 Annual Conference of some of those recommendations, 33 Central Texas Conference, to whom we are most grateful. 34 one of which is “New People New Places.” I have had the 34 Although we still have a long way to go, we are confident that 35 blessing of serving on one of the teams that made specific 35 the ministry of LPI merits every dollar invested, and that we 36 recommendations. Many prayers, hours of study, and 36 will reach our goal. 37 discussion are the foundation for what will be before you. 37 38 The missional realignment of districts is progressing, and the 38 We are proud of the accomplishments of the campaign, 39 possibilities for God are only limited by our vision. 39 but we are far prouder of the accomplishments of our 40 40 students. In the past year, we graduated 83 seniors, 82 of 41 Thank you for your commitment to God’s ministry 41 whom are in college today. We continue to maintain a 98 42 through The Oklahoma United Methodist Church and most 42 percent rate of graduates attending colleges or universities. 43 especially your local church. Through the power of God, 43 LPI graduates currently attend 15 of our United Methodist 44 may all our churches be “On Fire To Serve”! 44 colleges throughout the country. The lay ministry students 45 45 served in 21 internships last summer, one will graduate 46 Judy Benson, president 46 from seminary and receive ordination this year, and four are 47 47 leading churches. 48 LYDIA PATTERSON INSTITUTE 48 49 EL PASO, TEXAS 49 This has been a year of excitement and jubilation for 50 It is with great honor and respect that I submit this 50 Lydia Patterson, but the best is yet to come. THIS IS OUR 51 report to you on behalf of your ministry on the border, 51 YEAR. We will reach our goal and see that LPI is prepared 52 Lydia Patterson Institute (LPI). I first and foremost wish to 52 to go into the next 100 years with the best facilities, the most 53 thank the bishop and every member of the conference for 53 advanced programs, and the best tools to form leaders in 54 your love, prayers, and support for the well- being of our 54 our communities, to serve the church, and to transform the 55 400 students, whose future is in our hands. 55 world, all in the name of Jesus Christ. On behalf of the past 56 56 and present students and the many more to come, please 57 The past year has been one of monumental and historical 57 receive my appreciation for investing in this capital campaign 58 accomplishments for Lydia Patterson. We began with the 58 that will change many more lives in the next 100 years. 59 celebration of its 100 years of ministry in a Centennial Gala, 59 60 attended by over 450 friends and supporters from El Paso, 60 Socorro Brito de Anda, president 62 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 MOUNT SEQUOYAH CENTER 1 Fulfilling our mission: 2 Mount Sequoyah Center continues to support the 2 3 mission of The United Methodist Church by delivering 3 • We completed our first-ever capital campaign, and 4 radical Christian hospitality to all who enter our gates. The 4 construction has begun on our $3.1 million new 5 year 2014 saw usage increases of 28 percent in meeting 5 headquarters and dental clinic. 6 facilities and 29 percent in overnight lodging. Staff- 6 7 sponsored youth programs have been emphasized for the 7 • It was a record year for our Low-Cost Dental Clinic! 8 past three years, and, in 2014 approximately 450 youth 8 We provided more than 7,000 procedures for uninsured 9 participated in these programs. Over 200 collegiate women 9 Oklahomans. 10 meet weekly on our campus, as well as a Boy Scout troop 10 11 and other small groups. 11 • Our WIC nutrition clinics continue to be one of the 12 12 largest in the state, serving 5,000 individuals each 13 Program Manager Emily Gentry oversaw the growth of 13 month. 14 youth programs and helped improve programs designed to 14 15 address the spiritual and physical needs of adults. We had 15 • We received support to continue our dental hygienist 16 more children than ever before participate on our Marlin 16 preventive care program, which provides preventive 17 Swim Team, and we doubled the amount of Kampers who 17 care to hundreds of people and outreach, education, and 18 attended Kanakuk KampOut on our grounds. We also are 18 referrals for thousands. 19 blessed with the opportunity to work with two interns from 19 20 the Lydia Patterson Institute this summer. 20 • Our permanent supportive housing programs have 21 21 remained at capacity, with very low turnover. These 22 Denni Palmer, M.Div., a United Methodist diaconal 22 apartment complexes house chronically homeless adults 23 minister, joined our staff as Christian Education and 23 with mental illnesses. 24 Spiritual Formation coordinator. By the close of 2014, 24 25 more Christian-based educational training seminars and 25 • We continued our scattered-site permanent supportive 26 workshops were on the calendar for 2015 than in the 26 housing for men and women who have mental illnesses 27 previous six years. Mount Sequoyah now provides “Bible 27 or are overcoming addiction. 28 Studies to Go” for any guest, with individuals staying on the 28 29 grounds for weeks of training specifically in mind. 29 • We are an active part of the national 100,000 homes 30 30 initiative to end homelessness as well as the Renew 31 Our Board engaged Run River Enterprises to conduct 31 program, which works to reintegrate women who have 32 a long-range jurisdiction-wide review of our mission and 32 been released from prison. 33 programming and to provide guidance in development of a 33 34 strategic plan to better serve the South Central Jurisdiction. 34 • As part of a $100,000 grant award project, we completed 35 35 building a new kitchen at the Carolyn Williams Center, 36 Capital improvements of $536,000 have been 36 a transitional living program for young men. This 37 completed. The United Methodist Foundation of Arkansas 37 kitchen replaced the residential-style kitchen as well as 38 matching grant has $150,000 of the $300,000 remaining 38 provided space for teaching life skills associated with 39 available for capital improvements. 39 nutrition, food preparation, and safety. A $75,000 grant 40 40 from the Walmart Foundation will help us implement 41 If you have not been to Mount Sequoyah in the past 41 these life-skills trainings. 42 two years, you will be astounded by the renovations and 42 43 remodels. Many of our guest rooms have been redecorated 43 • NSO continues to offer monthly bus tours of our 44 and are now equipped with more modern amenities, such as 44 facilities for stakeholders. This has been an unexpected 45 flat-screen TVs, wi-fi, and coffeemakers. It is truly amazing 45 success, as dozens of stakeholders express interest in 46 the difference our staff, with your support, has made on our 46 seeing our programs for themselves. They are always 47 facilities. 47 impressed by how we meet our mission and are moved 48 48 when they meet our amazing clients. 49 We miss you and hope you will visit us soon so that you 49 50 can experience our radical Christian hospitality for yourself. 50 • Our staff, board members, and other stakeholders 51 51 worked to create a new strategic plan for the 52 Lamar Pettus., interim executive director 52 organization for the next three years. 53 53 54 NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES ORGANIZATION 54 Building Our Future 55 INC. 55 56 Each year, Neighborhood Services Organization (NSO) 56 • Recently our CEO, Stacey Ninness, was recognized 57 helps some 72,000 people. Our mission is transforming 57 by the Oklahoma Journal Record as a Most-Admired 58 lives and encouraging independence through safe, healthy 58 CEO in Oklahoma. This is the third time she has been 59 homes, dental care, and nutrition. Accomplishments in 2014 59 recognized and, as such, she will enter the Oklahoma 60 include: 60 Chain of Distinction. 63 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 • Our CFO, Ken Stephens, received the Stewardship Award 1 Ministry and new tracks in Theology and Social Justice, 2 from the Journal Record for the second year in a row, which 2 Christian Spirituality, and Evangelism and Mission. 3 recognizes excellence in nonprofit fiscal management. 3 4 4 As part of SMU’s “Operational Excellence for the 5 Stacey Ninness, president and Chief Executive Officer 5 Second Century” (OE2C) initiative, Perkins streamlined its 6 6 organizational structure in early 2015. 7 PERKINS SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY, 7 8 SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY, DALLAS 8 A $2.5 million gift to SMU will establish the new Susanna 9 Perkins celebrates our vital connections with the 9 Wesley Centennial Chair in Practical Theology at Perkins. 10 Oklahoma Conference: 10 11 11 Perkins thanks our many alumni/ae and friends in 12 • Six M.Div. and four D.Min. Oklahoma Conference 12 Oklahoma for continuing generous support, including 13 students are enrolled at Perkins; 13 referrals of prospective students, as we continue our vital 14 14 mission of preparing women and men for faithful leadership 15 • All 2014–15 master’s degree students from the 15 in Christian ministry. 16 Oklahoma Conference received funding from Perkins 16 17 Annual Conference Endowment (PACE) grants or other 17 William B. Lawrence, 18 awards and merit scholarships, in an amount sufficient 18 dean and professor of American Church History 19 to cover tuition; 19 20 20 SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY, DALLAS 21 • Two Oklahoma students currently are serving 21 SMU is celebrating the centennial of its founding in 22 internships, one in Oklahoma and one in the North 22 1911 by the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and its 23 Texas Conference; 23 opening in 1915. Highlights of recent developments follow: 24 24 25 • Perkins celebrates the distinguished accomplishments 25 • In Fall 2014 SMU’s total enrollment of 11,272 included 26 and service of our alumni/ae in Oklahoma, including 26 6,391 undergraduates and 4,881 graduate students. 27 Bishop Robert Hayes and recent Distinguished 27 Ethnic minority students made up 25 percent of total 28 Alumnus Award recipients Roberto Escamilla (2013) 28 enrollment. An international enrollment of 1,483 29 and Mouzon Biggs (2012). 29 represented 92 foreign countries, with the largest 30 30 numbers from China, India, and Saudi Arabia. 31 Total enrollment at Perkins exceeds 400 students, of 31 32 which approximately two-thirds are United Methodist and 32 • SMU ranks among the nation’s top universities. In the 33 more than one-third are ethnic minority students. Master’s 33 2015 U.S. News & World Report listings, SMU ranks 34 degree programs comprise approximately 51 percent female 34 58th among 280 of the “best national universities.” 35 and 49 percent male students. The D.Min. program includes 35 Several individual schools and academic programs also 36 students from southern Asia taking classes in Singapore and 36 earned national rankings. 37 Dallas. Our Ph.D. program comprises 30 active students, 37 38 including two Latino Ph.D. students supported through a 38 • SMU received $31 million in external funding during 2013- 39 grant from the Luce Foundation to Perkins’ Center for the 39 14 for research in the U.S. and worldwide. Current research 40 Study of Latino/Christianity and Religions. 40 subjects include water quality, natural hazards, learning 41 41 disabilities, and treatments for cancer and diabetes. 42 Jack Levison (Ph.D., Duke, 1985) joined the Perkins 42 43 faculty as the third appointee to the W.J.A. Power Chair of 43 • SMU Unbridled: The Second Century Campaign is the 44 Biblical Hebrew and Old Testament Interpretation. John 44 largest fundraising effort in the University’s history, with 45 Martin, new director of Development, came to Perkins after 45 a goal of $1 billion. To date, SMU has received more 46 serving as president of Roberts Wesley College in Rochester, 46 than $927 million to support student quality, faculty and 47 New York. Following a nationwide search, a senior scholar 47 academic excellence, and the campus experience. 48 and teacher eligible for appointment to the Lois Craddock 48 49 Perkins Chair in Homiletics is expected to join the Perkins 49 • Recent campaign gifts have supported five residence halls 50 faculty in Fall 2015. 50 and a dining center, opened in 2014, and a new education 51 51 building, under construction. Other 2014 campaign 52 Perkins restructured its Master of Divinity degree, 52 gifts support several endowed faculty positions and new 53 effective Spring 2015, enabling full-time students to 53 centers focusing on research, cyber security, communities 54 complete the program in three years and reducing overall 54 in education, victims of crimes against women, family law 55 cost of the degree. The M.Div. now requires 73 term hours of 55 and legal research in science and technology. 56 academic credit, including the nine-hour internship. 56 57 57 SMU treasures its Methodist heritage, and we ask for 58 A new Master of Arts in Ministry (M.A.M.) degree 58 your continued prayers and support. 59 has replaced the C.M.M. The M.A.M. offers five tracks: two 59 60 previously existing tracks in Christian Education and Urban 60 R. Gerald Turner, president 64 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 SAINT PAUL SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY AT OCU SOUTH CENTRAL 1 1 JURISDICTIONAL CONFERENCE 2 In July 2014, Saint Paul welcomed a new president: H. 2 3 Sharon Howell, who most recently served as the executive 3 Plans continue for the Jurisdictional Conference to be 4 director of the Scarritt-Bennett Center in Nashville. In 4 held in Wichita, Kan., on July 13-16, 2016. That is still a year 5 August, Elaine Robinson became the interim vice president 5 away, but please mark your calendar. 6 of Academic Affairs and dean of both campuses of Saint 6 7 Paul (at OCU and at Church of the Resurrection in 7 We will meet at the Hyatt Hotel except for the opening 8 Leawood, Kan.). In September, Brian Green-Young became 8 worship and the Consecration Service on the last day, both of 9 the director of Student Recruitment Services for Saint Paul, 9 which will be at First United Methodist Church, Wichita. 10 overseeing all aspects of student recruitment and admissions 10 11 work on both campuses. 11 The 216 elected delegates will gather for the opening 12 12 worship on Wednesday evening and begin plenary sessions 13 Saint Paul introduced a new curriculum this year for 13 on Thursday, continuing through Friday. On Saturday 14 its masters’ degree programs. The current course of study 14 morning each annual conference will hold a breakfast 15 for the Master of Divinity is 79 credit hours and includes 15 and welcome returning episcopal leaders or newly elected 16 some exciting new components to better prepare students 16 bishops. At 10 a.m. the Consecration Service will begin, and 17 for a lifetime of ministry. Students now take short courses 17 the conference will adjourn by noon that day. 18 called “Practicums” that are taught by excellent ministry 18 19 practitioners. These offerings include such skill areas as 19 We encourage you to visit the Jurisdictional Conference 20 “Budgets and Finance,” “Funerals,” and “Ministry with 20 as we hear reports from agencies, celebrate the retirement 21 Children.” Students are also required to attend spiritual 21 of bishops, and elect new leaders of the Church. More 22 formation retreats, which are intended to deepen their 22 information will be posted on our website as they become 23 spirituality for a lifetime of ministry. Of course, we continue 23 available. 24 to offer the core curriculum that is so vital for ministry and 24 25 to emphasize our long-standing model of action-reflection 25 Thanks to all for the continued support of Lydia 26 in which students learn to reflect theologically upon the 26 Patterson Institute, Mount Sequoyah, and your Jurisdiction 27 practice of ministry. 27 Administration. 28 28 29 In 2013-14 Saint Paul enrolled 231 total students from 29 David Severe, executive director 30 23 annual conferences and five countries. The Course 30 31 of Study School served 237 students. In Oklahoma City, 31 32 student enrollment continued to be stable with almost 50 32 33 Master’s and Doctor of Ministry students taking classes. In 33 34 Oklahoma City, our August 2014 graduation included eight 34 35 Master’s students and 3 Doctor of Ministry graduates. 35 36 36 37 The Native American Ministries Program hosted a 37 38 group of Native American scholars, elders, and clergy 38 39 who have together written a book on Native Christian 39 40 Theologies, titled “Coming Full Circle.” This book will be 40 41 published by Fortress Press in August 2015 and proceeds 41 42 will go toward funding Saint Paul’s Native American 42 43 Ministries Program. 43 44 44 45 This year, Seminary Lite was offered in a new way, 45 46 partnering with OKC-Church of Servant and OKC-St. 46 47 Luke’s, as well as select offerings in districts and on the 47 48 campus of OCU. Saint Paul continues to invest in the 48 49 leadership development of our laity. 49 50 50 51 It has been an exciting year for Saint Paul at OCU. We 51 52 have an outstanding group of students who are preparing 52 53 for ministry in the local church. They are the future of the 53 54 Oklahoma Conference, and it is a bright future! 54 55 55 56 Oklahoma, now as always: We are your seminary! 56 57 57 58 Elaine Robinson, 58 59 interim vice president of Academic Affairs and dean, 59 60 professor of Methodist Studies and Christian Theology 60 65 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 Part A: Requiring Action 1 6. The Cabinet, Treasurer, and Statistician will establish a 2 STANDING RULES 2 deadline each year for delivery of all Local Church year-end 3 3 reports to the offices of the Treasurer and Statistician. The 4 I. ORGANIZATION 4 method and manner of gathering this information shall be 5 5 the responsibility of each district’s superintendent. Reports 6 A. ANNUAL CONFERENCE 6 shall be made in the format prescribed by the Treasurer and 7 7 the Statistician. 8 1. In accordance with The Book of Discipline (¶ 32) the 8 9 Annual Conference shall include the following lay members 9 7. Each district’s superintendent shall, by January 31, 10 in order to equalize lay and clergy representation: the lay 10 deliver a list to the Treasurer/Director of Administrative 11 leaders; the District Lay Leaders, Conference presidents 11 Services that reports who are the Lay Members and Alternate 12 of United Methodist Men and United Methodist Women; 12 Lay Members of the Annual Conference. 13 laypersons who hold any of the following offices; director of 13 14 Communications, Conference treasurer, United Methodist 14 8. District Superintendents shall furnish to the Director 15 Foundation president, Circle of Care director, president of 15 of Communications copies of obituaries for clergy members, 16 Oklahoma City University, Adult chair(s) of the Conference 16 their spouses, and diaconal ministers, to be printed in the 17 Council on Youth Ministry, the director of Connectional 17 Memorial Worship Bulletin and the Journal. 18 Ministries; and co-chairpersons of the Board of Higher 18 19 Education and Campus Ministry; lay chairpersons of Annual 19 9. District Superintendents shall report immediately the 20 Conference councils, boards, commissions, committees; the 20 death of any person with a claim on the Conference, as listed 21 lay members from Oklahoma who serve on General Church 21 in the Journal, to the Treasurer or Pension Benefits Officer. 22 boards and agencies, lay delegates for the current General 22 23 Conference; president of the conference youth organization; 23 10. There shall be an Agenda Committee to plan and 24 chairperson of the Oklahoma United Methodist Student 24 arrange the agenda for the Annual Conference session. The 25 Movement; and two active young church members from each 25 committee members shall be: the presiding bishop (who shall 26 district, one who is between ages twelve (12) and seventeen 26 chair the committee), dean of the Cabinet, host pastor and 27 (17) and one who is between ages eighteen (18) and (30). Each 27 host District Superintendent(s) for the approaching session, 28 charge served by more than one clergy shall be entitled to as 28 Conference Secretary, Director of Connectional Ministries, 29 many lay members as there are clergy members. Lay members 29 Treasurer/Director of Administrative Services, Director of 30 shall have been members of The United Methodist Church 30 Communications/Assistant to the Bishop, Conference Lay 31 for two (2) years prior to election and shall have been active 31 Leader, and others as may be necessary to plan the session. 32 participants in The United Methodist Church at least four 32 B. DISTRICT CONFERENCE 33 years prior to election (The Book of Discipline, ¶ 602.4). 33 34 34 1. A District Conference shall may be held annually 35 Should the total number of lay members, both elected 35 on call of the superintendent. It shall may be composed of 36 and ex-officio, still be fewer than the number of clergy 36 these people from within that district: all clergy, (elders, 37 members, the difference shall be proportionately distributed 37 deacons, provisional members, associate members, retired, 38 among the districts. That proportion shall be based on the 38 supernumerary, and local pastors); the deaconesses and 39 total number of pastoral charges, in each district, which have 39 home missioners; diaconal ministers; the lay leaders from 40 two or more churches. District Superintendents shall assign 40 each church; the presidents of United Methodist Women 41 these additional openings to be filled by members elected by 41 and United Methodist Men from each church; the district 42 churches otherwise without lay representation. 42 trustees; the District Lay Leader and any associate District 43 43 Lay Leaders; the lay member(s) of the Annual Conference 44 2. At the first session of the Annual Conference following 44 from each charge; the district president of United Methodist 45 a General Conference, the lay and clergy members shall elect a 45 Women, United Methodist Men, and Youth Ministries 46 Secretary and a Statistician to serve for the quadrennium. The 46 Council; the district representatives to the Conference 47 Secretary shall nominate Assistant Secretaries for election. 47 Council on Youth Ministries; the chairperson(s) of the 48 48 United Methodist Student Movement or its equivalent 49 3. A Pre-Conference Workbook shall be edited, published, 49 within the district; the district mission secretary; the district 50 and made available to the members at least fifteen (15) days 50 communications officer, the district representative to the 51 prior to convening the Annual Conference. The Director 51 Conference Department of Congregational Development 52 of Connectional Ministries shall produce the workbook in 52 New Faith Communities Ministry Team, the district 53 cooperation with the Council on Finance and Administration. 53 chairpersons of Mission and Service, Discipleship Ministries, 54 54 Leadership Development Ministries, stewardship and 55 4. The Treasurer shall be elected at the first Annual 55 finance, and age-level coordinators; the district Camps 56 Conference session following the General Conference and in 56 representative; and others as determined by the District 57 accordance with the provisions of The Book of Discipline. 57 Conference or Annual Conference. 58 58 59 5. The fiscal and programming year of the Annual 59 2. There may be a District Council or equivalent 60 Conference shall be January 1 to December 31. 60 leadership structure in each district, with its membership 66 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 determined by the District Conference. The District 1 for nomination. This will assure fair process and prevent 2 Conference shall also determine what other entities are 2 ineligible persons from voting on the district’s nominees. 3 needed to do the work of the district, taking care to fulfill 3 A bar shall be established by the District Superintendent, 4 the mandates of The Book of Discipline. Vacancies in the 4 separating those eligible to vote from those present to 5 membership of the District Council may be filled by the 5 observe the assembly. 6 District Superintendent in consultation with the District 6 7 Nominations Committee. 7 3. Credentials 8 8 9 C. GENERAL AND JURISDICTIONAL ELECTIONS 9 It is the District Superintendent’s responsibility, with the 10 10 assistance of the District lay leader, to invite to the assembly 11 1. It is the intention of the Oklahoma Annual 11 the lay representatives. The District Superintendent shall 12 Conference that the Conference nominate and elect a 12 conduct a credentials check at the assembly, to ensure the 13 diverse delegation, laity and clergy. Diversity of race, 13 voting eligibility of participants. If this step is omitted, then 14 age, ethnicity, and gender strengthen the delegation and 14 the meeting is an invitation to problems. Invitations sent 15 invigorate and empower the Church. 15 by the District Superintendent and District Lay Leader also 16 16 shall be carefully written and addressed to conform with this 17 2. Elections of Clergy Delegates to General and 17 Standing Rule. 18 Jurisdictional Conference shall be by secret ballot, without 18 19 nomination. 19 B. Preparations for the District Nominating As- 20 20 sembly 21 3. At the Annual Conference Session preceding an 21 22 election year, the Board of Laity shall provide voting 22 1. Proper mailing list 23 guidelines in the Pre-Conference Workbook. 23 24 24 The District Superintendent shall receive from the 25 4. By December 15, the Conference Secretary shall 25 Conference Secretary an accurate mailing list of all lay 26 provide to each district’s superintendent a list of ex-officio 26 representatives as noted in C.5.A.2 above. 27 members and the number of equalization members for that 27 28 district, as well as a reminder to superintendents to send out 28 2. Scheduling time and place of meeting 29 meeting notices. 29 30 30 This January meeting shall be held no later than the 31 5. The election of Lay Delegates to General Conference 31 middle of that month. Thus, if severe winter weather causes 32 and Jurisdictional Conference shall include steps that 32 postponement, the meeting can be rescheduled for a later 33 identify and provide information about qualified nominees, 33 date in that same month. 34 including: 34 35 A. The Standing Rule on Lay Elections 35 This meeting should not be scheduled at the same time 36 36 as the Local Church Leader Workshop. Scheduling any 37 1. Rationale of the Standing Rule 37 district meeting jointly with this Nominating Assembly 38 38 appears to extend invitations to people ineligible to 39 The District Nominating Assembly is key to 39 participate and injects potential error and controversy in 40 inclusiveness in nominating Lay Delegates to stand for 40 this very important process. This assembly occurs only once 41 election to General and Jurisdictional Conferences. 41 every four years in a district’s schedule and deserves careful 42 This assembly designates up to ten (10) nominees for 42 consideration and compliance with this Standing Rule. 43 consideration by the Annual Conference regardless of 43 44 the number of Lay Delegates to be elected by Annual 44 3. District Lay Leader Preparation for the Nominating 45 Conference. This assembly is called by the District 45 Assembly 46 Superintendent—in consultation with the District Lay 46 47 Leader—and must meet during January of the election year. 47 The District Lay Leader is to assist the District 48 It is a “representative assembly.” 48 Superintendent in preparing the letter inviting participants 49 49 to this assembly. They should set a January date and a 50 2. Avoiding manipulation of the process 50 convenient location for all participants. The letter should be 51 51 mailed no later than Dec. 15, to provide sufficient advance 52 The District Nominating Assembly is limited to 52 notice. The letter should contain an outline of the process, 53 lay members and alternate lay members of the Annual 53 signed by the District Superintendent and District Lay 54 Conference, any layperson who is elected district officer, 54 Leader. A reminder notice should be sent in late December 55 chairperson, president, coordinator, or committee member 55 or early January. 56 of a district function, as described in I.B.1 (District 56 57 Conference) and any layperson who serves on a Conference, 57 C. District Nominating Assembly Agenda and 58 Jurisidictional, or General Board, Commission, or 58 Procedure 59 Committee, provided that the layperson is a resident of that 59 60 District and would meet the requirements to be considered 60 1. Attendee roster 67 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 A roster shall be available to collect the signatures of 1 person’s experience, current role, activities, and likelihood 2 the participants and each person’s official capacity as a lay 2 of attendance at all meetings of the delegation and of the 3 member/alternate lay member or district representative. 3 conference(s). 4 4 5 2. Prayer for meeting 5 5. Selection of nominees 6 6 7 The District Superintendent will remind the 7 After all nominations, comments, and discussions are 8 participants at the assembly of the meeting’s serious 8 completed, the credentialed voters in the assembly must 9 purposes and will pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in the 9 make decisions and select nominees. If fewer than ten 10 deliberations. 10 (10) people are nominated, a show of hands is a suitable 11 11 method of election. If there are more than ten (10) potential 12 3. Requirements and considerations for nominees 12 nominees, a written ballot should be taken, to establish the 13 13 ten (10) nominees and preserve the integrity of the process. 14 a. The District Superintendent will furnish information 14 15 that describes the necessary qualifications for nominees as 15 6. If possible, at least three (3) reserve nominees also 16 required by the Book of Discipline. For example: According 16 should be selected by the assembly, to take the place of any 17 to the Book of Discipline (¶36 Article V), nominees are 17 nominee who is or becomes unable to serve. The District 18 required to possess two (2) years of membership and 18 Lay Leader will replace a nominee whose name is thus 19 four (4) years of active participation in a church in this 19 withdrawn with a reserve nominee, in order of election. 20 Conference. 20 21 21 22 b. A copy of this Standing Rule should be available for 22 D. Procedures Following the District 23 inspection by those attending the assembly. 23 Nominating Assembly 24 24 25 c. All nominees must be willing and available to attend 25 1. The District Lay Leader shall send a letter to 26 several delegation meetings in addition to the General/ 26 each nominee, requesting confirmation of that person’s 27 Jurisdictional Conference to which they are elected, 27 willingness to stand for election (and serve if elected) and 28 including: 28 also completion and submission of the Lay Nominee Form 29 29 and an accompanying photo. If the form and photo are not 30 aa. The first delegation meeting immediately follows 30 received within two (2) weeks after the assembly, the District 31 adjournment of the Annual Conference Session in 31 Lay Leader will personally contact the nominee to obtain 32 Oklahoma City. The delegation will elect a chairperson and 32 these materials. 33 co-chairperson at that time. Other officers will be elected 33 34 later. 34 2. The Lay Nominee Form and photo must be received 35 35 no later than February 21 by the District Superintendent, in 36 bb. There will be six (6) or more delegation meetings, in 36 order to submit them no later than February 28 to the United 37 Tulsa and Oklahoma City, beginning in the summer of the 37 Methodist Ministry Center, for reproduction in the “Lay 38 year of election, and continuing on a monthly or bimonthly 38 Nominees Booklet.” 39 basis through the time of the General Conference and up to 39 40 the Jurisdictional Conference. 40 41 41 E. Procedures at Annual Conference relating 42 cc. During the same calendar year designated for the 42 to potential nominees not in the “Lay Nominees 43 General/Jurisdictional Conferences, nominees must be 43 Booklet” 44 available for a maximum of twelve (12) consecutive days 44 45 in spring to attend the General Conference, and for five (5) 45 1. Only those people identified in the “Lay Nominees 46 or six (6) consecutive days in summer to attend the South 46 Booklet” will be introduced at the election-year Annual 47 Central Jurisdictional Conference. 47 Conference Laity Session. 48 48 49 4. Instructions for the District Nominating Assembly 49 2. Other than the “Lay Nominees Booklet,” no additional 50 50 biographical information may be presented, by direct or 51 a. The District Superintendent shall open the meeting 51 indirect reference, prior to the Annual Conference Session 52 for nominations from the floor only. Names of potential 52 or from the floor. Pursuant to the Discipline, election 53 delegates shall be displayed clearly for all participants. Self- 53 and balloting shall occur without any oral or written 54 nominations are permitted. Only persons residing in the 54 nominations, speeches, or debates. Printed materials shall 55 district may be nominated. 55 neither be distributed at the door nor on the floor of the 56 56 Annual Conference Session on behalf of any nominee or 57 b. The District Superintendent shall determine the order 57 write-in candidate. Buttons, badges, or other campaign 58 for presentation of biographical sketches. Each participant 58 material are also prohibited. Each nominee shall be given a 59 who makes a nomination will present a biographical 59 badge or ribbon, indicating his or her status as a nominee, to 60 sketch of the nominee, with specific information on that 60 wear during the Annual Conference Session. 68 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 3. The presiding bishop is asked to directly reprimand 1 that council for its consideration and recommendation. 2 any effort at nominating, campaigning, speeches, or 2 Absent a favorable recommendation by that council, such a 3 distribution of materials at the door or on the floor. 3 motion shall require a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Annual 4 4 Conference for approval. 5 4. Upon receiving five (5) or more votes in balloting, 5 6 any person who has not previously submitted a Lay 6 7. All action items in the Pre-Conference Workbook or in 7 Nominee Form must immediately obtain one from the 7 the Legislative Packet shall be considered in the hands of the 8 Conference Lay Leader, complete the form, and return it 8 Body—available to be acted upon at any time. 9 before the next ballot is taken. Copies will not be duplicated 9 10 for distribution unless the nominee does so at his or her 10 8. Any motion or resolution not in the Pre-Conference 11 expense. 11 Workbook or the Legislative Packet shall not be considered 12 12 by the Body until that item lays on the table for 24 hours. A 13 F. Balloting for Lay Delegates shall be open to all eligible 13 two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Body is required to suspend this 14 laypersons. 14 rule. 15 15 16 G. When the results of the first lay ballot are 16 9. Any motion or petition submitted by an individual or 17 announced, a printed list of those results shall be furnished 17 church to the Annual Conference Session must be received 18 to each lay member. That list will show the sixty (60) 18 by March 1 for consideration. Such a proposal shall be 19 laypersons with the highest vote totals, in descending order 19 referred first to the appropriate Conference council, board, 20 of votes received, and the total votes for each of them. 20 or committee assigned to related matters. If that group 21 21 denies the motion or petition, the Annual Conference may 22 H. When the results of the first clergy ballot are 22 be asked to suspend and permit the petition to be heard. If 23 announced, a printed list of those results shall be furnished 23 the rules are suspended by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote, 24 to each clergy member. That list will show the sixty (60) 24 the petition shall lay on the table for 24 hours before being 25 clergypersons with the highest vote totals, in descending 25 considered. The Conference group that originally denied the 26 order of votes received, and the total votes for each of them. 26 motion or petition shall present the group’s recommendation 27 27 when that item reaches the floor. This rule does not apply 28 I. After announcing and distributing the first balloting 28 to motions properly before the Annual Conference (those 29 results for lay and clergy, the presiding bishop shall not read 29 from the Pre-Conference Workbook, the Legislative Packet, 30 the names and number of those receiving five (5) or fewer 30 or recommended for approval by an agency of the Annual 31 votes on any subsequent ballot. 31 Conference). 32 D. PROCEDURES (Annual Conference Session) 32 33 33 10. If an action is approved by the Annual Conference, 34 1. Roll call shall be by registration. 34 it shall be the responsibility of the Annual Conference 35 35 Council, the Council on Finance and Administration, or 36 2. Each Annual Conference Session shall determine 36 the Conference Secretary—unless otherwise assigned by the 37 its Standing Rules in keeping with the Book of Discipline (¶ 37 Annual Conference—to monitor for assurance of compliance 38 605), and shall otherwise be governed by Robert’s Rules of 38 with that decision. The monitoring group shall report its 39 Order. 39 findings to the Annual Conference. 40 40 41 3. Each report in the Pre-Conference Workbook (Reports 41 42 of Boards and Committees) shall be in two sections. Section 42 II. CONFERENCE NOMINATING PROCEDURES 43 “A” shall succinctly explain matters requiring action by 43 A. LEADERSHIP 44 the Annual Conference. Section “B” shall include general 44 45 information not requiring action. 45 1. There shall be a Conference Committee on 46 46 Nominations consisting of the following: each district’s 47 4. The Conference Secretary shall be authorized to 47 superintendent and lay leader (or designee); the Conference 48 edit and prepare for publication the minutes of the Annual 48 Lay Leader; the Conference presidents of the United 49 Conference. The Conference Secretary is responsible for the 49 Methodist Men and United Methodist Women; and 50 publication and distribution of the Journal, in accordance 50 representatives from Religion and Race, Commission on the 51 with the Book of Discipline (¶ 606). 51 Status and Role of Women (COSROW), and Young Adult 52 52 Ministry Council; a youth chosen by the CCYM; and two 53 5. Reports and papers not in the hands of the 53 (2) at-large clergy and lay members to ensure balance of 54 Conference Secretary within fifteen (15) days after the final 54 representation. The Treasurer/Director of Administrative 55 day of the Annual Conference shall be excluded from the 55 Services, Director of Connectional Ministries, and Director 56 Journal. 56 of Communications/Assistant to the Bishop shall be ex- 57 57 officio, with voice but not vote. 58 6. Motions that request funds not included in the 58 59 proposed budget submitted by the Conference Council 59 2. The chairperson of the Committee on Nominations 60 on Finance and Administration shall be referred first to 60 shall be named by the bishop and may be clergy or laity. 69 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 The boards, commissions, ministry teams, departments, 1 The Conference Ministry Nominations Pool database 2 and committees shall elect their officers within thirty (30) 2 shall be maintained and accessible through the Annual 3 days after the first Annual Conference Session that follows 3 Conference Council office. This database shall be updated 4 a General Conference. Election of officers shall be preceded 4 regularly and shall be available to all areas of leadership in 5 by a time of orientation about the work of the entity. The 5 the Annual Conference, to select potential participants in 6 election shall be conducted by persons named by the 6 ministry endeavors, including task groups and project teams. 7 Bishop, and shall be by secret ballot, following nominations 7 8 from the floor. Organizing the entities and appointing any 8 2. To the greatest extent possible, Disciplinary 9 needed additional leaders, who serve for the quadrennium, 9 requirements shall be followed regarding balance in 10 shall take place no later than thirty (30) days following the 10 membership of Conference ministry teams, departments, 11 elections. Vacancies that occur among an entity’s elected 11 boards, commissions, councils, committees, and other 12 officers during the year shall be filled through election by 12 agencies. It is the intention of the Oklahoma Annual 13 that entity and affirmed by the next Annual Conference. 13 Conference that there shall be racial and ethnic 14 14 representation in the membership of all these groups. In 15 3. Prior to August 1 of each calendar year, all Annual 15 valuing and practicing diversity in the composition of 16 Conference entities shall submit their planned dates 16 all these groups, we invigorate and empower the church. 17 for the next calendar year to the Treasurer/Director 17 Ethnic and age diversity of the membership of these 18 of Administrative Services, Director of Connectional 18 programming and operational bodies of the church is 19 Ministries, and Director of Communications/Assistant to 19 critical to the future of United Methodism in Oklahoma. 20 the Bishop, who shall coordinate all dates and, as possible, 20 Following District Nominating Committee meetings each 21 eliminate conflicting meeting times. Written notices of these 21 District Superintendent shall forward to the Conference 22 meetings shall then be provided to each member of each 22 Committee on Nominations chairperson the names of the 23 entity. An online Conference Calendar may be developed 23 qualified persons of racial and ethnic diversity who have 24 and used as an official Annual Conference Calendar, 24 been nominated. From that list, and other suitable sources, 25 published in the website of the Annual Conference. 25 the Conference Committee on Nominations may make 26 26 additional nominations to help fulfill this intention. 27 B. DISTRICT NOMINATING COMMITTEE 27 28 1. Each district shall have a nominating committee 28 3. The Conference Secretary shall inform the chair of 29 consisting of an appropriate number of people to represent 29 the Committee on Nominations of all conference members 30 the geographic areas of the district, along with the District 30 serving on General Conference boards. 31 Superintendent and the District Lay Leader. Each District 31 32 Conference shall set the number and make-up of its 32 4. No person shall serve concurrently as an elected 33 Nominating Committee. The committee shall be responsible 33 member of more than one Annual Conference ministry 34 for screening nominations coming from local churches 34 team, department, board, council, or commission at one 35 and from any other source involving people from the 35 time, except for the Board of Laity, boards of trustees, and 36 district. Care shall be given to ascertain that those who are 36 ex-officio representatives on boards, commissions, and 37 nominated have shown leadership in their local churches 37 committees. Ex-officio membership shall not be subject 38 and are growing Christians. 38 to this limitation. It is urged that leadership positions be 39 39 filled so the number of positions held by any one person be 40 2. The tenure of each District Lay Leader shall be the 40 minimized. 41 same as members of Conference entities (see section III. 41 42 TENURE ON CONFERENCE ENTITIES, 1. Tenure.) 42 Membership on these ministry teams, boards, 43 43 councils, and commissions shall be subject to the “one- 44 3. No nomination from the District Nominating 44 entity” rule: MINISTRY TEAMS (Discipleship, Leadership 45 Committee shall be considered by the Conference 45 Development, and Mission & Service); BOARDS (Ordained 46 Committee on Nominations unless accompanied by the 46 Ministry, Pension & Health Benefits, Criminal Justice & 47 nominee’s full address, including mail, phone, and, where 47 Mercy Ministries, Church & Society, Higher Education & 48 possible, e-mail. e-mail address, phone number, and full 48 Campus Ministry, and Trustees); COUNCILS (Finance & 49 mailing address. Prior to Annual Conference action on any 49 Administration, Annual Conference Council, and Older 50 nominations the District Nominations Committee shall 50 Adult Ministry Council); COMMISSIONS (Archives & 51 ascertain a person’s willingness to be named for service 51 History, Equitable Compensation, Religion & Race, Status 52 in a specific area, and shall affirm this to the Conference 52 & Role of Women and Commission on Rural/Smaller 53 Committee on Nominations chairperson. 53 Membership Church); and DEPARTMENT (Congregational 54 54 Development) New Faith Communities Ministry Team. At- 55 C. NOMINATIONS POOL 55 Large members of Congregational Development New Faith 56 1. Each local church shall consider those who have gifts 56 Communities Ministry Team shall fall under the one-entity 57 for ministry beyond that congregation—whether in the 57 rule. Additional members representing districts, or because 58 nominations structure, or in short-term ministry on a task 58 of special expertise in these areas, shall not be subject to the 59 group or project team. 59 one-entity rule. 60 60 70 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 CONGREGATIONAL DEVELOPMENT. There 1 standing committee. The following standing committees 2 shall be a Department of Congregational Development to 2 are exceptions to the one-entity rule: Episcopacy, Episcopal 3 resource the local churches in their growth, facilitate new 3 Housing, Agency Emergency/Capital Fund, Clergy Housing 4 church starts in cooperation with the Cabinet, and provide 4 and Department of Communications. Only those bodies 5 resources and programs for revitalization. This department 5 created and elected by the Annual Conference shall be 6 shall provide research information on demographics, 6 subject to the “one entity, one committee” rule. Task groups, 7 lifestyle concerns, emerging cultural conditions, and on 7 project teams committees, sub-committees, and departments 8 potential new church starts, relocations, and mergers. 8 created by Conference ministry teams, departments, boards, 9 9 councils, commissions, and committees shall be exempt from 10 The department shall include the work of the 10 this rule, and may be selected by the parent body rather than 11 Racial Ethnic Coordinating Committee, Commission 11 the Annual Conference. 12 on Strengthening the Black Church in the 21st Century, 12 13 Hispanic Ministries Committee, and Commission on Rural/ 13 When the Annual Conference creates and elects a new 14 Smaller Membership Church. 14 body, the resolution or other action creating the body shall 15 15 specify whether or not it is subject to the “one-entity, one 16 Membership: The Conference Committee on 16 committee” and tenure rules. 17 Nominations shall nominate and the Annual Conference 17 18 shall elect twelve (12) people, and the District 18 III. TENURE ON CONFERENCE ENTITIES 19 Superintendents shall each name a district representative 19 1. Tenure. Election to Conference entities, unless 20 who shall also become a member of the District Board of 20 otherwise stated, shall be for four years. Unless otherwise 21 Church Location and Building. The director may also name 21 provided in the Book of Discipline, no person shall serve 22 additional members who bring specific expertise to this 22 more than eight (8) consecutive years on the same entity. 23 department. 23 A person whose term has expired shall be eligible for re- 24 24 election to the same entity after four full years have passed. 25 Replacing the Department of Congregational Development 25 Terms of office and membership on Conference entities, 26 26 unless otherwise provided, shall begin upon election. The 27 New Faith Communities Ministry Team 27 term of office for a member of the Conference Committee on 28 28 Nominations shall extend until a successor is elected by the 29 There shall be a New Faith Communities Ministry 29 District Conference. 30 Team whose function is to facilitate the development of 30 31 new faith communities in cooperation with the Bishop and 31 2. Membership Termination. Membership is terminated 32 the Cabinet. This Ministry Team shall provide research 32 if a member becomes a District Superintendent (unless 33 information on demographics, lifestyle concerns, emerging 33 chosen as a Cabinet representative) or moves outside the 34 cultural conditions, and on potential new church starts, 34 Conference on a permanent basis. Membership may be 35 restarts, multi-site endeavors, relocations and mergers. 35 terminated for failure to attend at least one meeting over a 36 36 period of one year, providing the member has been properly 37 Membership: The Annual Conference Committee on 37 notified about time and place of meetings. 38 Nominations shall nominate and the Annual Conference 38 39 shall elect seven (7) persons – three (3) clergy, three (3) 39 3. Accuracy in Tenure Reporting. The Conference 40 lay, and one (1) racial ethnic representative. The District 40 Committee on Nominations will be responsible for accurate 41 Superintendents shall each name a representative from 41 accounting and reporting the years served by individuals 42 their respective District Mission Strategy Teams (if 42 to the Conference secretary for inclusion in the Conference 43 functioning) who will also serve as a member of the District 43 Journal, in order to ensure compliance with the tenure rule. 44 Board of Church Location and Building. One (1) Cabinet 44 For each person named, the report shall indicate the year of 45 Representative will also be named. The Director may also 45 election to the Conference entity and the member’s district. 46 name up to three (3) additional members who bring specific 46 47 expertise to the work of the ministry team. 47 4. Cabinet Representation. From its membership, 48 48 the Cabinet may designate representatives to Conference 49 Membership on the Council on Finance & 49 boards, commissions, committees, or agencies, who shall 50 Administration is limited still further by The Book of 50 serve as liaisons between the Cabinet and the respective 51 Discipline so that no person may serve on that Council 51 body. The Cabinet representative shall have floor 52 who is also a member of any other conference agency 52 privileges within that group, be a member of the Executive 53 that receives funds from the Conference budget. It shall 53 Committee, and have voting rights as authorized by the 54 be the responsibility of the Conference Committee on 54 Discipline or the group. 55 Nominations to make sure this rule is obeyed, absolutely 55 56 and without exception. 56 IV. FINANCIAL 57 57 1. The Conference Secretary and Conference Statistician 58 In addition to membership on a ministry team, 58 shall, on recommendation of the Conference Council on 59 department, board, council, or commission, a person may 59 Finance & Administration, receive honorariums, paid from 60 be elected to membership on no more than one Conference 60 the Conference’s budgeted funds. 71 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 2. All Conference funds, along with the approved 1 This process does not preclude requests to meet with the 2 reporting form, shall be sent to the Conference Treasurer. 2 CF&A by representatives of those entities. Upon invitation 3 Funds for district work or promotion, district missions, 3 of the CF&A, any entity with financial requests may do so to 4 or district parsonages shall be sent to the appropriate 4 support its request. All entities shall have the right to appeal 5 treasurers. 5 to the Annual Conference directly for support of their work. 6 6 V. Conference Housing Committee 7 3. All boards, councils, and agencies which have 7 8 members of the Oklahoma Annual Conference under 8 The Conference Clergy Housing Committee shall 9 appointment beyond the local church shall be required to 9 be a subcommittee of the Commission on Equitable 10 pay monthly to the Clergy Retirement Security Plan, at the 10 Compensation. At least once every four years, this 11 rate established by the Board of Pensions and approved by 11 subcommittee shall review policies, standards and guidelines 12 the Annual Conference. 12 regarding clergy housing. It also shall receive annual reports 13 13 and check lists from the District Committee on Church 14 4. All clergy members (Full, Provisional, and Associate) 14 Location and Building concerning implementation of 15 of the Oklahoma Annual Conference, and full-time 15 standards and recommendations for changes, and it shall 16 Local Pastors who are appointed full-time and who are 16 report to each Annual Conference about improvements 17 participating in the Clergy Retirement Security Plan shall 17 and needs. The clergy housing standards policy shall be 18 participate in the Ministers’ Health Benefits Plan, subject 18 printed in each Journal. This subcommittee will be made up 19 to the provisions of the plan. All churches that have pastors 19 of at least two (2) members from each District Committee 20 under appointment shall pay the Apportionments for Health 20 on Church Location and Building (one clergy and one 21 Benefits fund as a Ministerial Support Item. In addition, all 21 laity), the president of the Clergy Spouse Fellowship, the 22 charges (churches and conference agencies) that have an 22 chairperson of the Commission on Equitable Compensation, 23 appointed full-time clergy will be required to pay an annual 23 the chairperson of the Covenant Family Committee of the 24 per clergy share that will be billed directly to the charge. 24 Board of Ordained Ministry (or equivalent), and a Cabinet 25 25 representative. It is not subject to the one-entity rule. 5. The Conference is directed to rent a safety deposit 26 26 VI. SEXUAL ETHICS POLICY 27 box for the safekeeping of all legal and valuable documents 27 28 of the Annual Conference. This includes legal documents of 28 Statement of Policy. Church Professionals of the 29 the boards, trustees, and other agencies of the Conference. A 29 Oklahoma Annual Conference shall not engage in sexual 30 permanent index is to be on file in the office of the presiding 30 abuse, sexual harassment, or sexual misconduct. 31 bishop. 31 32 32 Theological Foundation. All persons are created by God. 33 6. At least annually, the Council on Finance & 33 God intends all persons to have worth and dignity in their 34 Administration shall review and report to the Annual 34 relationships. We are one connected body, and when one part 35 Conference the disbursements of funds according to 35 of the body is injured physically, emotionally or spiritually, 36 budgets approved by the Annual Conference. The council 36 the entire body is rendered less than God intended. 37 also shall receive and review annually and make available 37 Misconduct of a sexual nature of any kind violates a person’s 38 quadrennially a consolidated statement of assets and 38 wholeness and is an unjust use of status and power and a 39 liabilities of all Conference-related boards, agencies, and 39 sinful behavior against God and one another. The Scripture 40 institutions including trusts and endowment funds. 40 witnesses to a God who brings about justice, mercy, and 41 41 grace. The Church is called to express God’s love in concrete 42 7. By December 15, each District Superintendent shall 42 actions of compassion and healing for all God’s people. 43 furnish to the Conference Treasurer a report on the pastoral 43 Definitions 44 compensation for each pastoral charge as approved by the 44 45 charge conference. 45 1. Sexual Abuse: Sexual abuse means unwanted physical 46 46 conduct of a sexual nature, sexual contact, or sexualized 47 8. Each District Superintendent shall send to the 47 behavior and may include, by example, touching, fondling, 48 Conference Statistician, no later than January 10, a report 48 other physical contact, and sexual relations. 49 on the number, value, and indebtedness on the district 49 50 parsonage and all other property owned or partially owned 50 2. Sexual Harassment: Sexual harassment is any 51 by The United Methodist Church within the bounds of the 51 unwanted sexual advance or demand, either verbal or 52 district, if these items have not otherwise been reported. 52 physical, that is reasonably perceived by the recipient as 53 53 demeaning, intimidating, or coercive. Sexual harassment 54 9. All organizations, agencies, and institutions of the 54 must be understood as an exploitation of a power 55 Annual Conference that are related to programming must 55 relationship rather than as an exclusively sexual issue. Sexual 56 submit their financial requests for review and approval by 56 harassment includes, but is not limited to, the creation of 57 the appropriate program entity to which they are assigned. 57 a hostile or abusive working environment resulting from 58 All program budgets must then be submitted to the 58 discrimination on the basis of gender. 59 Annual Conference Council for review and approval before 59 60 forwarding to the Council on Finance & Administration. 60 3. Sexual Misconduct: Sexual misconduct means a 72 Reports Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 chargeable offense within the meaning of The Book of 1 Attendance. Any person under appointment/assignment 2 Discipline (¶ 2702). 2 in Oklahoma Annual Conference must attend one Sexual 3 3 Ethics In The Workplace Seminar as specified by the resident 4 4. Church Professional: A Church Professional shall 4 bishop, no less than once every four years. 5 include Full, Associate, and Provisional ministerial members 5 VII. THE STANDING RULES, STRUCTURE, AND 6 of the Annual Conference, ordained Deacons, and Elders, 6 POLICY REVIEW COMMITTEE 7 Diaconal 7 8 8 1. The Committee on Standing Rules, Structure, and 9 Ministers, and Local Pastors, in both the effective 9 Policy Review shall review annually the Standing Rules for 10 and retired relationships, and other persons serving 10 appropriate updating and shall review and recommend to 11 the Conference or any local church under appointment 11 the Annual Conference all submissions for changes in the 12 of the bishop or under the supervision of the District 12 Standing Rules. 13 Superintendent, including persons keeping their 13 14 membership in another annual conference or in another 14 2. A permanent record of all existing policies of the 15 denomination and persons holding orders issued by these 15 Annual Conference shall be maintained by the Standing 16 annual conferences while on Honorable or Administrative 16 Rules, Structure and Policy Review Committee. It shall be the 17 Location. 17 responsibility of this committee to recommend the deletion 18 18 of obsolete policies to the Annual Conference. 19 Implementation. Church Professionals and local 19 20 churches of the Annual Conference shall be provided a 20 3. Changes in the Standing Rules may be made by the 21 copy of this policy and shall be offered training information 21 Annual Conference upon recommendation of, or following 22 to assist in the understanding and implementation of 22 consideration by, the Standing Rules Committee. 23 this policy. This policy shall be published annually in the 23 24 Oklahoma Annual Conference Journal. 24 4. The Standing Rules, or any of the items in the 25 25 Standing Rules, may be amended, substituted, or deleted 26 Making a Complaint. Persons who have knowledge of 26 by a two-thirds vote of the Annual Conference. Any such 27 possible violations of this policy by a church professional 27 action must be presented in writing to delegates at least 24 28 may report the same to any church professional, any 28 hours prior to voting on the matter at a regular session of the 29 District Superintendent, or the bishop. Upon any complaint, 29 Annual Conference. 30 the Conference will take action in accordance with the 30 31 provisions of the current Book of Discipline of The United 31 5. Wherever the Book of Discipline is referred to in these 32 Methodist Church. 32 rules, the references are to the 2008 Book of Discipline. After 33 33 the publication of a new Book of Discipline, the Conference 34 Local Church Policies. The Annual Conference 34 Secretary shall inform the Committee on Standing Rules of 35 recommends that local churches adopt a local church sexual 35 any changes required due to General Conference action. 36 harassment policy. 36 37 37 Robert Rose, chair 38 38 39 Notes: 39 40 40 41 ______41 42 42 43 ______43 44 44 45 ______45 46 46 47 ______47 48 48 49 ______49 50 50 51 ______51 52 52 53 ______53 54 54 55 ______55 56 56 57 ______57 58 58 59 ______59 60 60 73 Resolutions Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 Part A: Requiring Action 2 RESOLUTION FOR ABANDONMENT OF THE CLEORA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3 4 WHEREAS the Cleora United Methodist Church located in Delaware County was founded in 1904 and has a long and 5 proud history; and 6 7 WHEREAS the charge conference of the Cleora United Methodist Church voted on May 3, 2015, to discontinue the church; and 8 9 WHEREAS the district superintendent has recommended discontinuance and abandonment of the Cleora United Methodist 10 Church and transfer of membership to the Grace Point United Methodist Church; and 11 12 WHEREAS the superintendent has recommended that the property be deeded to the newly formed Grace Point United 13 Methodist Church and all assets be transferred to the Grace Point United Methodist Church; and 14 15 WHEREAS the consent to discontinue has been granted by the presiding bishop, a majority of the district superintendents, 16 and the Bartlesville District Committee on Church Location and Building, and all proper Disciplinary requirements have been 17 satisfied; 18 19 THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cleora United Methodist Church be discontinued and abandoned, effective 20 June 1, 2015, and the property and all assets shall deeded to the Grace Point United Methodist Church of the Oklahoma Annual 21 Conference of the United Methodist Church. 22 Bartlesville District Superintendent 23 George T. Warren 24 25 RESOLUTION FOR DISCONTINUANCE AND ABANDONMENT 26 OF THE GRACE EPWORTH UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 27 28 WHEREAS the Grace Epworth United Methodist Church of Bartlesville and its predecessor congregations have had a long 29 and vital ministry in the City of Bartlesville and beyond; and 30 31 WHEREAS the membership of the Grace Epworth desires to partner with the East Cross United Methodist Church of 32 Bartlesville, Oklahoma, for continued ministry in Bartlesville; and 33 34 WHEREAS the Charge Conference of the Grace Epworth United Methodist Church voted on May 3, 2015, to discontinue 35 the church; and 36 37 WHEREAS the District Superintendent has recommended discontinuance of the Grace Epworth United Methodist Church 38 and transfer of membership to the East Cross United Methodist Church; and 39 40 WHEREAS the consent to abandon and discontinue has been granted by the presiding bishop, a majority of the district 41 superintendents, and the Bartlesville District Board of Church Location and Building, and all proper Disciplinary requirements 42 have been satisfied; 43 44 THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Grace Epworth United Methodist Church be discontinued and abandoned 45 effective May 4, 2014, and the property and all assets be deeded to the East Cross United Methodist Church of Bartlesville, OK. 46 47 Bartlesville District Superintendent 48 George T. Warren 49 50 RESOLUTION FOR DISCONTINUANCE OF THE HARRISON MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 51 52 WHEREAS the Harrison Memorial United Methodist Church located at 15 S 65th West Avenue in Tulsa County of the State 53 of Oklahoma was founded in 1922 and has a long and proud history of witness and mission; and 54 55 WHEREAS the Charge Conference of the Harrison Memorial United Methodist Church voted on March 22, 2015 to 56 discontinue the church as of April 12, 2015 and to transfer title to all real and personal, tangible and intangible property to the 57 United Methodist Board of Trustees, Tulsa District Inc. for the establishment of new ministries; and 58 59 WHEREAS the District Superintendent has recommended discontinuance of the Harrison Memorial United Methodist 60 Church and the transfer of the remaining membership and membership records to the Lake United Methodist Church; and 74 Resolutions Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 2 WHEREAS the consent to discontinue has been granted by the presiding bishop, a majority of the district 3 superintendents, and the Tulsa District Board of Church Location and Building, and all Disciplinary requirements have been 4 complied with; 5 6 THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Harrison Memorial United Methodist Church be discontinued effective April 7 12, 2015. 8 Tulsa District Superintendent 9 Dan Peil 10 11 12 RESOLUTION FOR ABANDONMENT OF THE KETCHUM UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 13 14 WHEREAS the Ketchum United Methodist Church located in Craig County was founded in 1913 and has a long and 15 proud history; and 16 17 WHEREAS the charge conference of the Ketchum United Methodist Church voted on May 3, 2015, to discontinue the 18 church and all assets be transferred to the Grace Point United Methodist Church; and 19 20 WHEREAS the district superintendent has recommended discontinuance and abandonment of the Ketchum United 21 Methodist Church and transfer of membership to the Grace Point United Methodist Church; and 22 23 WHEREAS the superintendent has recommended that the property and all assets be transferred to the Grace Point 24 United Methodist Church; and 25 26 WHEREAS the consent to discontinue has been granted by the presiding bishop, a majority of the district 27 superintendents, and the Bartlesville District Committee on Church Location and Building, and all proper Disciplinary 28 requirements have been satisfied; 29 30 THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ketchum United Methodist Church be discontinued and abandoned, effective 31 June 1, 2015, and all property and assets shall be deeded to the Grace Point United Methodist Church. 32 33 Bartlesville District Superintendent 34 George T. Warren 35 36 37 RESOLUTION FOR DISCONTINUANCE OF THE MCCURTAIN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 38 39 WHEREAS the McCurtain United Methodist Church, located on Lots 4, 5 and 6 in Block 48 of the Town of McCurtain, 40 Haskell County, Oklahoma has a long and cherished history of ministry 41 42 WHEREAS the Charge Conference of the McCurtain United Methodist Church voted on November 30, 2014, to 43 discontinue the church; and 44 45 WHEREAS the District Superintendent has recommended discontinuance of the McCurtain United Methodist Church 46 and transfer of membership to the Keota United Methodist Church; and 47 48 WHEREAS the consent to discontinue has been granted by the presiding bishop, a majority of the district 49 superintendents, and the district Board of Church Location and Building and all proper Disciplinary requirements have been 50 complied with; 51 52 THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the McCurtain United Methodist Church be discontinued and all real and 53 intangible property placed in trust of the McAlester District Trustees effective December 31, 2014. The McAlester District 54 Trustees or their successor trustees will make arrangements to give the building and property to the Oklahoma Indian 55 Missionary Conference following approval of the 2015 Annual Conferences. 56 McAlester District Superintendent 57 Darrell Cates 58 59 60 75 Resolutions Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 RESOLUTION FOR DISCONTINUANCE AND ABANDONMENT 2 OF THE SOUTH LEE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3 4 WHEREAS the South Lee United Methodist Church, located on 1,2,3,4,47,48 lots of block 26 in the Town of Oklahoma 5 City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma 6 7 WHEREAS the Charge Conference of the South Lee United Methodist Church voted on December 2, 2014, to discontinue 8 the church; and 9 10 WHEREAS the District Superintendent has recommended discontinuance of the South Lee United Methodist Church and 11 transfer of membership to the Lambuth Memorial United Methodist Church; and 12 13 WHEREAS, the principal and interest of Unit Petroleum, Inc and the Grace Van Nort Trust Fund be transferred to the 14 South OKC District for the purpose of support for new churches anad ministries, and 15 16 WHEREAS the consent to abandon and discontinue has been granted by the presiding bishop, a majority of the district 17 superintendents, and the bi-district Board of Church Location and Building and all proper Disciplinary requirements have been 18 complied with; 19 20 THEREFORE, Be It Resolved, that the South Lee United Methodist Church be discontinued and abandoned effective 21 January 31, 2015, and the property be sold and the proceeds paid to the South OKC District Board of Trustees. 22 23 South OKC District Superintendent 24 Greg Tener 25 26 27 RESOLUTION FOR DISCONTINUANCE OF THE ST. JOHN’S UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 28 29 WHEREAS the St. John’s United Methodist Church, recorded in Book RE 12387, pages 280 & 297 of the Town of Oklahoma 30 City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma 31 32 WHEREAS the Charge Conference of the St. John’s United Methodist Church voted on December 14, 2014, to discontinue 33 the church; and 34 35 WHEREAS the District Superintendent has recommended discontinuance of the St. John’s United Methodist Church and 36 transfer of membership to the South OKC District of the United Methodist Church; and 37 38 WHEREAS the consent to discontinue has been granted by the presiding bishop, a majority of the district superintendents, 39 and the bi-district Board of Church Location and Building and all proper Disciplinary requirements have been complied with; 40 41 THEREFORE, Be It Resolved, that the St. John’s United Methodist Church be discontinued effective January 15, 2015 and 42 the property held by SOKC Trustees. 43 44 South OKC District Superintendent 45 Greg Tener 46 47 48 RESOLUTION FOR DISCONTINUANCE AND ABANDONMENT 49 OF THE TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 50 51 WHEREAS the Trinity United Methodist Church, located on Block 102, lots 10-12 of the Town of Shawnee, Pottawatomie 52 County, Oklahoma 53 54 WHEREAS the Charge Conference of the Trinity United Methodist Church voted on December 4, 2014, to discontinue the 55 church; and 56 57 WHEREAS the District Superintendent has recommended discontinuance of the Trinity United Methodist Church and 58 transfer of membership to the Broadway, Tecumseh Memorial United Methodist Church; and 59 60 WHEREAS the consent to abandon and discontinue has been granted by the presiding bishop, a majority of the district 76 Resolutions Pre-Conference Workbook 2015

1 2 superintendents, and the bi-district Board of Church Location and Building and all proper Disciplinary requirements have been 3 complied with; 4 5 THEREFORE, Be It Resolved, that the Trinity United Methodist Church be discontinued and abandoned effective 6 December 31, 2014, and the property be sold and the proceeds paid to the South OKC District Board of Trustees. 7 South OKC District Superintendent 8 Greg Tener 9 10 11 RESOLUTION FOR DISCONTINUANCE OF THE WELEETKA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 12 13 WHEREAS the Weleetka First United Methodist Church, located on Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and the East half of Lot 7, in Block 14 139, and Lots 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 in Block 140 and the North 26 feet of the alley contiguous to the south boundary 15 line of Lots 1 through 6 inclusive, and the East Half of Lot 7 in Block 139; and Lots 13 through 16 inclusive, in Block 140 all in 16 the incorporated Town of Weleetka, in Okfuskee County, State of Oklahoma, has a long and proud history of faithful service and 17 ministry as a congregation 18 19 WHEREAS the Charge Conference of the Weleetka United Methodist Church voted on May 25, 2014, to discontinue the 20 church; and 21 22 WHEREAS the District Superintendent has recommended discontinuance of the Weleetka United Methodist Church and 23 transfer of membership to the Wetumka United Methodist Church; and 24 25 WHEREAS the consent to abandon and discontinue has been granted by the presiding bishop, a majority of the district 26 superintendents, and the district Board of Church Location and Building and all proper Disciplinary requirements have been 27 complied with; 28 29 THEREFORE, Be It Resolved, that the Weleetka First United Methodist Church be discontinued effective June 1, 2014 and 30 the property (church building, parsonage and land) placed in trust with the Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference of the United 31 Methodist Church. The McAlester District Trustees will become stewards of all remaining tangible and intangible property of the 32 Weleetka United Methodist Church. 33 McAlester District Superintendent 34 Darrell Cates 35 Presented to a duly called Charge Conference of the Weleetka UMC, Sunday May 25, 2014 36 37 38 RESOLUTION FOR DISCONTINUANCE AND ABANDONMENT 39 OF THE MUSKOGEE WESLEY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 40 41 WHEREAS the Muskogee Wesley United Methodist Church located in Muskogee, Oklahoma was founded in or around 42 1981 and has had a proud history; and 43 44 WHEREAS the Charge Conference of the Muskogee Wesley United Methodist Church voted on May 18th, 2014 to 45 discontinue the church effective on May 31st, 2014; and 46 47 WHEREAS the district superintendent has recommended discontinuance of the Muskogee Wesley United Methodist 48 Church and transfer of membership to Warner United Methodist Church of Warner, Oklahoma; and 49 50 WHEREAS the consent to discontinue has been granted by the presiding bishop, a majority of the district superintendents, 51 and the District Board of Church Location and Building, and all proper Disciplinary requirements have been complied with; 52 53 THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Muskogee Wesley United Methodist Church be discontinued effective May 31st, 54 2014 and that the valuables inside the building be divided as specified at the Charge Conference to the churches and ministries 55 specified and that the remaining property be sold and the proceeds paid to the Muskogee District Board of Trustees to be used 56 for new and/or existing ministries in accordance with the Book of Discipline and the Guidelines of the Conference Board of 57 Trustees as described in the 2013 Journal of the Oklahoma Annual Conference. 58 Muskogee District Superintendent 59 Emery Mason 60 77 www.okumc.org Part A: Requiring Action Mission and Service Ministry Team COMMITTEE ON NOMINATIONS Laity: District Codes: Jay Gregory...... 2011...... GC Cimarron District – CM Glen Haworth...... 2011...... NP Council Oak District – CO Carol Bradley...... 2012...... CM Crossroads District – CR Glenda Gilpin...... Secretary...... 2012...... CM Green Country District – GC Cathy Jones...... 2012...... CR Heartland District – HL Karen Distefano .Conf Secretary of Global Min.2012...... GC Lake Country District – LC Sandy Singleton...... 2012...... GC Northern Prairie District – NP Taylor Anderson...... 2014...... CM Wichitas District – WI Dorrie Parrott...... 2014...... CR Judy Tener...... 2014...... HL Annual Conference Council Ann Clayton...... 2014...... WI Laity: Jason Charles...... 2015...... CO Donna Heldermon...... Co-Chair...... 2008...... GC Terry Myer...... 2015...... LC Kelly Brack...... 2008...... CM Doug Valley...... 2015...... NP Bill Prentice...... 2008...... GC Jim Wilkinson...... 2015...... NP Jacci Freno...... 2008...... HL Dan Tilley...... 2008...... NP Clergy: Jacqueline Devereaux...... 2010...... CR Thomas Hoffmann...... 2008...... CO Roger Hughes...... 2011...... LC Twila Gibbens...... Ecumenical Officer...... 2008...... CO Judy Benson...... 2012...... WI George Lupton...... 2008...... NP Jim Dembowski...... 2012...... HL Temple Diehl...... 2010...... CO Scott Davis...... 2014...... CR David Johnson...... Vice Chair...... 2010...... HL Bob Spinks...... 2014...... CR Roland Youngberg...... 2012...... CM Jim Swaim...... 2014...... CR Guy C Ames...... 2012...... CO Tasha Casey-Loveless...... 2014...... HL Barry Bennett...... Chair...... 2012...... CR David Patterson...... 2014...... HL Jeannie Himes...... 2012...... HL Aly Shahan...... 2014...... HL Peter White...... 2015...... CO Barbara Perry...... 2015...... CR Dick Read...... 2015...... CO Ahnawake Dawson...... 2015...... GC April Coates...... 2015...... LC Heather Tiger...... 2015...... CO Brad Dery...... 2015...... LC Laura Glover...... 2015...... NP Clergy: Andrew Haire...... 2015...... WI Dale Durnell...... 2008...... GC Sam Powers...... Co-Chair...... 2008...... CR Sherry Heath...... 2009...... LC Board of Church & Society Sandy Shepherd...... 2010...... WI Laity: Dawn Richards...... 2010...... HL Debby LeMaster...... 2008...... CO Don Whitman...... 2010...... CM Bob Anthony...... 2008...... CR Pam Shirk...... 2011...... HL Marvin Chiles...... 2008...... CR Jessica Moffatt-Seay...... 2012...... LC Pat McGarrity...... 2008...... CR Mark Rickman...... Secretary...... 2012...... GC Pat Penner...... 2011...... CM Ed Light...... 2012...... CR Lanna Kelley...... 2012...... CO Linda Truitt...... Audit Coordinator...... 2012...... HL Connie Harrison.Peace w/Justice Coordinator.2012...... CR Scott Rodgers...... 2012...... CO Janet Boone...... 2012...... CR Chris Dodson...... 2014...... WI Jo Ellen Reed...... 2012...... HL Randy Shrauner...... 2014...... CR Mark Shepherd...... 2012...... WI Daniel Dennison...... 2014...... HL Jacque Emperly...... 2014...... CR Jeff Jaynes...... 2014...... CO Evelyn Phyffer...... 2014...... CR Heather Scherer...... 2014...... CO Harrietta Williams...... 2014...... CR Josue Araujo...... 2015...... CO Stephen Cagle...... 2014...... GC Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 78 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 www.okumc.org Clergy: Clergy: Nathan Mattox...... 2008...... CO Bruce Davis...... 2008...... WI Stephen Hale...... 2008...... CR Kirt Moelling...... Vice Chair...... 2008...... CO Kyle Clark...... 2008...... LC Mark Davies...... 2010...... CR Cydni Tillery...... Co-Chair...... 2008...... WI Andy Nelms...... 2010...... CR Becky Pierson...... Secretary...... 2011...... CM Terry Martindale...... 2012...... CM Kyle Anderson...... 2011...... NP Don Tabberer...... 2012...... CO Trevor Smith...... Vice Chair...... 2012...... CR Mark Whitley...... Chair...... 2012...... CO Connie Gibson...... Co-Chair...... 2012...... HL David Wheeler...... 2014...... CR Max Rudd...... 2012...... NP Sonja Tobey...... 2014...... GC Michael Shepherd...... 2014...... CO Paul Calkin...... 2014...... HL Susan Whitley...... 2014...... CO Jeni Markham Clewell...... 2014...... HL Phil Davis...... 2015...... CM David Rose...... 2014...... HL Jeff Mildren...... 2015...... CR George Warren...... 2015...... GC Marcia Martin...... 2015...... GC Susan Marks...... 2015...... WI Amanda Lockwood...... 2015...... WI

Project Transformation Board of Directors Racial/Ethnic Representatives: Laity: Mario Herrera ...... 2010...... CR Jeanne Brosius-Smith...... 2009...... CO Semaj Vanzant...... 2014...... HL Andy Henson...... 2011...... CO Horace Martin...... 2015...... WI Adriane Jaynes...... 2011...... CO Liz Fajen...... 2014...... CO Board of Higher Education & Campus Ministry Brandon Cato...... 2014...... CR Laity: Jason Hasty...... Chair...... 2014...... CR James Key...... 2008...... NP Krista Jones...... Secretary...... 2014...... CR Mark Ashton...... 2008...... WI Dustin Murer...... 2014...... CR Helen Reid...... 2009...... CR Janina Graves...... 2014...... NP Ashley Underwood...... 2011...... CM Gordon Eggleton...... 2011...... LC Clergy: Larry Thorne...... 2012...... CM Sharon Betsworth...... Vice Chair...... 2010...... HL Linda DeBerry...... Secretary...... 2012...... LC Marla Lobo...... 2015...... CR Christi Roach...... 2012...... NP Nancy McCullough...... 2015...... CR Katie Pace...... 2014...... CR Greg Boyd...... 2015...... GC Tari Carbaugh...... 2015...... GC Clergy: Jim Hill...... 2008...... NP Discipleship Ministry Team Craig Clark...... 2009...... GC Laity: Charles King...... Audit Coordinator...... 2012...... CR John Hiller...... Young Adult...... 2011...... WI Felecia Hensley...... 2012...... WI Bruce Ewing...... 2012...... CR Coy Remer...... 2012...... WI Wilma Hamilton...... 2012...... CR Shannon Rodenberg...... 2014...... GC Vicki Trussell...... 2012...... CR Bryan Tener...... 2014...... NP Ana Estrada...... 2014...... CO Brandon Dollarhite...... 2014...... WI Becky Wyatt...... 2014...... CO Kathy Brown...... 2015...... HL Eunice Alba...... 2014...... HL Gary Gilpin...... 2015...... CM Board of Trustees of Camps and Conferences Ann Millerborg...... 2015...... CR Laity: Jim Marshall...... 2015...... GC Audra Fogle...... Program Chair...... 2008...... CO Harriet Parmar...... 2015...... HL Karen Mitchell...... 2010...... NP Patty Wells...... 2015...... LC Ralph Coffman...... 2012...... CO Adam Brinson...... 2015...... NP Herschel Beard...... Vice Chair...... 2012...... LC Sharon Kinzie...... 2015...... NP Mary Richardson...... 2014...... LC Sue Merritt...... 2015...... WI Kent Fulton...... 2015...... CR

Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 79 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 www.okumc.org Clergy: Clergy: Patrick McPherson...... Policy Chair...... 2010...... CR George Shepherd...... Co-Chair...... 2008...... HL David Daniel...... 2010...... LC Gail Edmison...... Co-Chair...... 2008...... NP Devon Krause...... 2013...... CM Connie Taylor...... 2012...... GC Gary Holdeman...... 2014...... CM Lisa Crone...... 2014...... CR Rusty Husted...... 2015...... CM Furan Jackson...... 2014...... GC Bill Welch...... 2015...... CO Scott Ware...... 2015...... CM Brian Matthews...... 2015...... GC Patricia Johnson...... 2015...... CR Ted Hoffman...... 2015...... GC Site Development Chairs: Kathy Gibson...... 2015...... WI Gary Haynes, Canyon; Sharri Hiller, Cross Point; Flo Conk- lin, Egan Commission on Rural/Smaller Membership Church Site Managers: Laity: David Combs, Canyon; Ken Long, Cross Point; Josh Pulver, James Farmer...... 2008...... NP Egan Shirley Farmer...... 2008...... NP Lori Foster...... 2014...... CR Young Adult Ministry Council Laity: Lynn Cordial...... 2014...... LC Matthew Alfred...... 2008...... CR Sherry Jones...... 2014...... LC Andy Henson...... Co-Chair...... 2010...... CO Kevin Kerr...... 2015...... CM Briana Tobey...... Secretary...... 2011...... HL Barbara Wells-Kime...... 2015...... NP Kelsey Murphy...... 2014...... CO LaRue Hill...... 2015...... WI

Fernie Rivera...... 2014...... CR Clergy: Jake Tatarain...... 2014...... CR Robert Foos...... 2008...... CR Morgan Ross ...... 2014...... HL Marsha Purtell...... Chair...... 2008...... WI Sarah Nichols...... 2014...... HL Paul McDowell...... 2010...... LC Miranda Luster...... 2014...... NP Warren Peck...... 2011...... GC Matt Taylor...... 2015...... LC Jim Hollifield...... 2011...... GC Ellen Roth...... 2015...... NP Barbara Fyffe...... Secretary...... 2012...... CM

Barry Hayes...... 2012...... CO Clergy: Bill Welch...... 2015...... CO James Lambert...... 2008...... CO Nikki Carter...... 2015...... LC Scott Spencer...... 2008...... NP Wanda Littrell...... 2015...... LC Becky Pierson...... 2010...... CM Jim Perkin...... 2010...... WI Commission on Strengthening the Black Church in Aaron Tiger...... 2011...... CO the 21st Century Devon Krause...... 2012...... CM Laity: Tiffany Nagel...... 2012...... CR Coleman White...... 2008...... CO Matthew Franks...... Co-Chair...... 2012...... GC Claud Evans...... 2008...... GC Chris Symes...... 2012...... LC Debra Davis...... Secretary...... 2010...... LC Nathan Mills...... 2012...... WI Leon Wilson...... 2013...... HL Tracey Ivy...... 2014...... CO Older Adult Ministry Council Debra Horsechief...... 2015...... GC Laity: Gayle Stewart...... 2008...... HL Clergy: Gloria Helmuth...... 2012...... CO Ernest Jackson...... Chair...... 2008...... HL Robin Dickerson...... 2014...... CR Cyvil Burks...... 2014...... LC Carol Schreiner...... 2014...... HL Valerie Steele...... 2015...... GC Sue Helms...... 2015...... CR Nick Lee...... 2015...... LC Betty Rodgers...... 2015...... GC David Monk...... 2015...... LC Mabel Dowler...... 2015...... GC Landon Heath...... 2015...... HL Leadership Development Ministry Team Nancy Whittaker...... 2015...... LC Laity: Rene Ward...... 2008...... CO Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 80 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 www.okumc.org Julie Hayes...... 2008...... CR Monica Hiller...... At-Large ...... 2012...... WI Ed Long...... 2008...... NP Jennifer Miller...... At-Large...... 2012...... CM G.W. Paull...... 2012...... CR Jarrett Hardwick...... At-Large...... 2014...... CO Leon Wilson...... Vice Chair - Nominations.2012...... HL Glenda Gilpin...... At Large...... 2015...... CM Brian Green-Young...... 2013...... HL Sheila Powers...... At Large...... 2015...... CO Donna Bayliff...... 2015...... CM Mark Springer...... At Large...... 2015...... CO Don Hertzler...... 2015...... CM Keith Bethell...... At Large...... 2015...... CR Linda Wilson...... 2015...... CO Barbara Perry...... At Large...... 2015...... CR Kinsie Tate...... 2015...... CR James Williams...... At Large...... 2015...... GC Claudean Harrison...... 2015...... HL Connor McReynolds...... At Large...... 2015...... HL Karen Hill...... 2015...... HL Peggy McBeath...... At Large...... 2015...... LC Kathleen Hatmaker...... 2015...... LC Crystal Brinson...... 2015...... NP Board of Ordained Ministry Lee Denney...... 2015...... NP Laity: Jim Lefler...... 2006...... CO Clergy: Betty Prentice...... 2008...... GC Norman Wasson...... 2008...... CM Kathryn Jordan...... 2008...... LC Shelly Daigle...... Secretary...... 2008...... CO Paul Babiak...... 2008...... NP Charles Ryser...... 2008...... CO Mary Lou Lorett...... 2008...... NP Dianne Peters...... Chair...... 2008...... CR Teresa Bockus...... 2012...... CR Chuck Rettig...... 2009...... LC Paul Reed...... 2012...... LC Donald Jones...... 2011...... GC Keith Thomas...... 2012...... LC Deborah Kerr...... Vice Chair - LEAD...... 2012...... CM Todd Finley...... 2015...... CM Rick Robart...... 2012...... GC Laura Aldridge...... 2015...... HL Rod Newman...... 2012...... HL Barbara Morgan...... 2015...... WI Lyle Shipley...... 2012...... LC Will Pasieczny...... 2012...... WI Clergy: Janice Sharp...... 2014...... NP Kathy Leithner...... Secretary...... 2006...... NP Tim Ashcraft...... 2015...... CR Lynn Brack...... 2008...... CM Cindy Robertson Riedel...... 2015...... CR Terry Koehn...... 2008...... CM Adam Shahan...... 2015...... HL Michael Mahaffey...... 2008...... CM Shannon Davis...... 2008...... CM Board of Laity Robert Feist...... 2008...... CO Chuck Stewart...... Conf Lay Leader...... 2012...... GC Gary Harber...... 2008...... CO Claudean Harrison...... Assoc Conf LL...... 2012...... HL Cynthia Havlik...... 2008...... CO Don Kim ...... Assoc Conf LL...... 2012...... HL Connie Cole Jeske...... 2008...... CO Aly Shahan...... Assoc Conf LL...... 2012...... HL David Rowley...... 2008...... CO Herschel Beard...... Assoc Conf LL...... 2012...... LC Mike DeMoss...... 2008...... CR Janey Wilson...... Assoc Conf LL...... 2014...... LC Paul Hamilton...... 2008...... CR Carla Garrison...... Dist LL...... 2015...... CM Ron Perceful...... 2008...... CR James McAlister...... Dist LL...... 2010...... CO Robyn Thompson-Goggs...... 2008...... CR Vicki Trussell...... Dist LL...... 2015...... CR Randy Wade...... 2008...... CR Pam Peck...... Dist LL...... 2014...... GC Ray Crawford...... 2008...... GC Leon Wilson...... Dist LL...... 2012...... HL D A Bennett...... 2008...... HL Debra Davis...... Dist LL...... 2013...... LC Phil Greenwald...... 2008...... HL Earl Mitchell...... Dist LL...... 2008...... NP Travis Hopper...... 2008...... HL Paula Volentstine...... Dist LL...... 2013...... WI Lesly Broadbent...... Vice Chair...... 2008...... NP Sharri Hiller...... Conf Dir of Lay Ministries.2012...... LC David Jenkins...... 2008...... NP Sam Welch...... Youth Serving Ministries.. 2015...... CR Randy Mitchell...... 2008...... NP Bill Chissoe...... UMM President...... 2011...... HL Allen Schneider...... 2009...... CO Cindy Hull...... UMW President...... 2013...... CM Adrian Cole...... 2009...... CR Myrna Moore ...... At-Large...... 2008...... NP Victor McCullough...... 2009...... CR Harry Wollenburg...... At-Large...... 2009...... HL Nancy Hamilton...... 2011...... CR Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 81 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 www.okumc.org Dick House...... 2011...... CR Gordon Denton...... 2011...... NP Valerie Steele...... 2011...... GC Marcina Overman...... 2012...... NP Deborah Ingraham...... 2011...... HL Shirley Franklin...... UMW rep...... 2013...... HL Jim Shepherd...... Registrar for Elders...... 2011...... HL Jennifer Ahrens-Sims...... 2015...... HL Mary Irby...... 2011...... NP Teresa Langley...... 2015...... HL Elizabeth Horton Ware...... 2012...... CM Fern Bowling...... 2015...... NP Gloria McGee Denton...... 2012...... CO Eric Snyder...... 2012...... CR Clergy: Mark Foster...... 2012...... CR Erma Pregler...... 2008...... CO Teri Green...... 2012...... CR Pam Cottrill...... Chair...... 2008...... CR Erica Thomas...... Registrar for Deacons.... 2012...... CR Margo Vestal...... 2008...... HL James Graham....Registrar for Local Pastors.2012...... GC Jeff Hiller...... Secretary...... 2011...... LC Linda Harker...... Chair...... 2012...... HL Cheryl Newton...... 2012...... GC Sheri Lashley...... 2012...... HL Kristiane Smith...... 2013...... WI Steve Harshaw...... 2012...... LC Crystal Hughes...... 2015...... CR Michael Chaffin...... 2012...... NP Tiffany Nagel...... 2015...... CR Matt Scraper...... 2014...... WI Department of Communications Laity: Administrative Review Committee Clergy: Frankie Carroll...... 2008...... CO Maggie Ball...... 2008...... CR Cindy Mason...... 2008...... CR Amy Venable...... 2008...... HL Jim Dembowski...... Director Appointee...... 2012...... HL Aloise McCullough...... 2014...... CR David Conrad...... 2011...... HL Jason Phariss...... 2014...... GC Alternates: Kathleen Hatmaker...... 2014...... LC Bob Younts...... 2008...... CR Tabitha Beckman...... 2014...... WI Janice Meese Sharp...... 2008...... NP Jill Perrin...... 2015...... CR Sam Welch...... Chair Director Appointee.... 2015...... CR Commission on Religion & Race Stacey Sprayberry...... 2015...... HL Laity: Shannon Lemmons...... 2015...... NP Don Kim...... 2013...... HL Gwen Fields ...... 2014...... CR Clergy: Cozetta Johnson...... 2015...... CR Ashley Green-Young...... 2008...... HL Susan Williams...... 2015...... CR Scott Spencer...... 2008...... NP Elaine Parrent...... 2015...... HL Andy James...... 2011...... CR Susan McEachern...... 2015...... NP Phil Hodson...... 2011...... WI Brad Sewell...... 2015...... NP Taud Boatman...... Vice Chair...... 2012...... CO Monica Sewell...... 2015...... NP Wendee Perceful...... 2012...... CR Mark McAdow...... 2012...... HL Clergy: David Gardner...... 2012...... WI Rose LeRoy...... Chair...... 2008...... GC Jack Terrell-Wilkes...... 2014...... CR Estell Ray...... Secretary...... 2011...... HL Carlos Ramirez...... 2014...... HL Linda Lusnia...... 2012...... LC Semaj Vanzant...... 2014...... HL Dylan Ward...... 2013...... GC Lisa Anderson...... 2014...... NP Michael Dye...... 2014...... LC Judy Bradford Smith...... 2015...... CO Department of Congregational Development Ken Smith...... 2015...... CO District Representatives: Steve Davis...... 2015...... CR Jeff Ralston...... 2015...... CM Rebekah Belase...... 2015...... NP Aaron Tiger...... 2011...... CO Mark Foster...... 2015...... CR Commission on Status & Role of Women Brian Matthews...... 2014...... GC Laity: Michael Andres...... 2014...... HL Christene Hack...... 2008...... LC Sheila Combs Francis...... 2013...... LC Faye Perry...... 2011...... HL Doyle Sharp...... 2014...... NP Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 82 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 www.okumc.org Lisa Beavers...... 2012...... WI Christina Wolf...... OCU-Conf Archivist/Comm Secretary

At-Large Members: Clergy: Derrek Belase...... 2008...... CR Jack Terrell-Wilkes...... 2012...... CR Brad Humphrey...... Chair...... 2009...... HL Eve Hawley...... 2012...... HL ex-officio with vote: PJ Stewart...... 2012...... LC Charles Watson...... Conf Historical Society president Larry Gaston...... 2012...... LC Martha McMillian...... 2012...... NP Oklahoma Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, Inc. Paula Gradney-Garner...... 2014...... CO Term Expiring Katie Hill...... 2015...... CO Judy Benson ...... President...... 2016 Susan Howard...... 2015...... CR Don Kim...... Vice President...... 2016 Matt Judkins...... 2015...... LC Joseph Harris...... Secretary Jayniece Cornell...... 2015...... NP Brian Bakeman...... Treasurer Mikel Araujo...... 2015...... WI Earl Mitchell ...... At-Large Director...... 2018

Racial/Ethnic Representatives: Sam Powers...... Annual Conference Council rep Fuxia Wang...... 2010...... HL Linda Harker...... Bd of Ord Ministry chair Jim Igarta...... 2015...... CO Tom Junk...... CF&A chair Frankye Johnson...... 2015...... HL Cabinet Representative Junior Daquiog...... 2015...... HL Greg Tolle...... Comm on Equit Comp chair Bill Gossett...... Conf Board of Trustees chair Hispanic Ministry Committee John Ray Green...... Conference Chancellor Laity: Chuck Stewart...... Conference Lay Leader Alma Garcia...... 2008...... CM Brad Humphrey...... Congregational Development chair Bob Ronne...... 2008...... CO Sam Welch...... Dept of Communications chair Fernando Rivera...... 2008...... CR Chuck Nordean....Director of Congregational Development Mirna Bain...... 2008...... LC Craig Stinson ...... Director of Connectional Ministries Andre Contino...... 2014...... CR Cydni Tillery...... DMT chair Dianne Peters...... LDMT chair Clergy: Barry Bennett...... MSMT chair Obed Alba...... 2008...... HL Mark Commons...... Pension & Health Benefits chair Jose Estrada...... 2008...... CO Bill Chissoe...... UMM President Daniel Llanos...... 2008...... CO Cindy Hull...... UMW President Juventino Espinoza...... 2008...... CM Roger Parker...... Chair...... 2008...... CM Without vote: Rachel Parrott...... Vice Chair...... 2008...... CM Robert E Hayes Jr...... Resident Bishop April Coates...... Secretary...... 2012...... LC Carlos Ramirez...... Conference Staff Council on Finance & Administration Laity: Commission on Archives & History John Ray Green...... Ex-Officio Laity: Tom Junk...... Chair...... 2008...... CO Charlene Lingo...... Secretary...... 2008...... GC Randy Compton...... 2008...... CR Ella Wenman...... Vice Chair...... 2008...... GC Nancy Griffin...... 2008...... NP Jerry Gill...... 2008...... NP Maurine Wiseman...... 2008...... WI John Beckman...... Chair...... 2008...... WI Monica Swink...... 2010...... HL John Miley...... 2011...... CR Chris Tabberer...... Secretary...... 2012...... CO Elizabeth Anthony...... 2012...... CR Jeff Hedrick...... Audit Review Chair...... 2014...... CR Jean Bradburn...... 2012...... CR Randall Stoner...... 2014...... CR Bill Welge...... 2012...... CR Mark Springer...... 2015...... CO Elayne Evans...... 2012...... GC Kelly Beach...... 2015...... GC Jeanie Sisson...... 2015...... HL G W Trenary...... 2015...... GC ex-officio with vote: Clergy: Doug Scott...... Gen Comm Archives & History/OIMC Wade Paschal ...... Project Review Chair..... 2008...... CO Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 83 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 www.okumc.org Kris Tate...... 2008...... CR Lisa Hefner...... 2015...... CR Mark Jardine...... 2008...... GC Bill Junk...... ex-officio member Frank Simpson...... 2008...... LC Norma Gravley-Quinn...... 2008...... WI Clergy: Randy Scraper...... 2010...... CR Patricia Johnson...... 2008...... CR Robert Gorrell...... Vice Chair...... 2012...... CR Phil Ware...... 2008...... WI Wendy Lambert...... 2012...... HL Charles Baumann...... 2011...... CM James Jones...... 2012...... NP Robert Duran...... 2011...... CM David Wiggs...... 2013...... CO Kyle Kiner...... 2011...... GC Charla Gwartney...... Secretary...... 2012...... CO Board of Trustees Tom Harrison...... Vice Chair...... 2012...... CO Laity: Chuck Horton...... 2012...... CO Lavonn McKnight...... 2008...... NP J D Ward...... 2012...... CR Bill Gossett...... Chair...... 2009...... WI Mark Watson...... 2012...... HL Gary Farabough...... 2011...... LC Bob Long...... representative of GBOPHB Katresa Riffel...... 2011...... NP Fred Doak...... 2011...... CR Commission on Equitable Compensation Lloyd Cole...... Vice Chair...... 2012...... GC Laity: Kelley Loud...... Secretary...... 2012...... CO Madge Chissoe...... 2009...... HL Wendy Newton...... 2013...... HL Sheila Powers...... 2010...... CO Kathy Geyer...... 2013...... GC Jerry Yates...... 2010...... HL Stewart Minton...... 2010...... WI Clergy: Lynne McGuire...... 2012...... HL Jim Cinocca...... 2011...... CO Dennis Bertholf...... 2012...... NP Wayne Loftin...... 2014...... GC Dan Heltzel...... 2014...... LC Donna Dodson...... 2015...... HL Doug Dowler...... 2015...... CR

Episcopal Residence Committee Clergy: Oklahma Conference Rep Harold Branstetter...... 2008...... HL Laity: Brett Thomasson ...... 2010...... LC Dee Ann Nordean...... 2008...... HL Richard Brasher...... 2012...... GC Jerry Davis...... 2008...... NP Nathan Mills...... 2012...... WI Prudy Gorrell...... 2012...... CR Greg Tolle...... Chair...... 2012...... WI Marsha Long...... 2012...... HL Andy James...... 2015...... CR Donna Neal Thomas...... Chair...... 2013...... CR Arron Grantz...... 2015...... NP Alan Nagel...... 2015...... NP Clergy: Randy Shrauner...... 2012...... CR Committee on Conference Clergy Housing Laity: Board of Pensions & Health Benefits Wayne Johnson...... 2008...... CM Laity: Al Inglima...... 2009...... CO David Atkinson...... 2008...... CM Bonnie Pulver...... 2015...... CO Jack Ward...... 2008...... CO Courtney Blacksten...... 2014...... CR Dwight Yoder...... 2008...... CO Irene Potts...... 2009...... GC Vicki Toombs...... 2010...... CR Michael Tobey...... 2010...... GC Mark Commons...... Chair...... 2010...... GC Bryce Felts...... 2015...... GC Mona Mae Waymire...... 2010...... LC Lisa Watson...... Chair...... 2012...... HL Bruce Powers...... 2011...... CO Sue McCasland...... 2008...... LC Bob Crawford ...... 2011...... CR Deane Wymer...... 2015...... NP Brenda Reed...... 2012...... CO Hadley Tolle...... 2010...... WI David Battles...... 2012...... CR Anita Arbabi...... 2012...... LC Clergy: Pat Parvin...... 2012...... NP Brandon Blacksten...... 2014...... CM Karen Ramsey...... 2013...... CO Dennis Adlof...... 2008...... CO Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 84 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 www.okumc.org Lisa Crone...... 2008...... CR Committee on Marvin Hudson...... 2008...... CR Standing Rules, Structure & Policy Review Matt Franks...... 2011...... GC Laity: Rudy Freese...... 2014...... GC Ron Gilbert...... 2009...... GC Rob Harris...... Secretary...... 2008...... HL Anthony Haddox...... 2012...... HL Gary Wilburn ...... 2009...... HL Frankie Robbins...... 2012...... NP Travis Muse...... 2009...... LC Joe Dorman...... 2012...... WI John Breon...... 2014...... LC Leon Wilson...... 2015...... HL Linda Lusnia...... 2014...... LC Sally Phillips...... 2015...... NP Ruth Atterberry...... 2014...... NP Nathan Mills...... 2015...... WI Clergy: Keith Cressman...... Secretary...... 2012...... CR Agency Emergency/Capital Fund Committee Ron King...... 2012...... HL Laity: Jim Perkin...... Vice Chair...... 2012...... WI Dale Williams...... 2008...... CO Matt Franks...... 2015...... GC Linda Calhoun...... 2010...... CO Kevin Tully...... 2015...... GC Cara Nicklas...... Chair...... 2012...... HL Robert Harrison...... 2015...... NP Sharri Hiller...... 2012...... LC James McCullough...... 2015...... GC Episcopacy Committee Laity: Paula Volenstine...... 2015...... WI Harold Wright...... 2008...... CM Clergy: Donna Thomas..... Chair Episcopal Residence... 2008...... CR Larry Holder...... 2008...... HL Shari Goodwin...... 2014...... CO L. Don Griffin...... 2012...... CM Chuck Stewart...... ex-officio Jeff Burress...... 2012...... GC Clergy: Kyle Clark...... 2012...... LC Adrian Cole...... 2008...... CR David Gordon...... 2015...... LC Tom Harrison...... Chair...... 2010...... CO Joel Thompson...... 2015...... NP Connie Gibson...... 2015...... HL Committee on Nominations David Burris...... 2015...... GC Donna Dodson...... Chair Tish Malloy...... Vice-Chair Carlos Ramirez ...... At-Large - clergy Jeff Jaynes...... At-Large - clergy Ron Gilbert...... At-Large - laity Judy Benson...... At Large - laity Janey Wilson...... At Large - laity Bill Chissoe...... UMM President Cindy Hull...... UMW President Chuck Stewart...... Conf Lay Leader Representative, COSROW Representative, Religion & Race Representative, Young Adult Ministry Council Conference youth chosen by CCYM All Exec Senior Staff of AC without vote 8 District Superintendents 8 District Lay Leaders

Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 85 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 www.okumc.org

Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 86 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 www.okumc.org INDEX General Information Agencies and Trustee / Directors Reports Oklahoma City University Map...... 2 Africa University...... 61 Oklahoma City University Map 2...... 3 Annual Conference Corporation...... 62 Clergy & Lay Delegate Seating...... 4 Lydia Patterson Institute...... 62 Floor Plan of St. Luke’s UMC...... 5 Mount Sequoyah Center...... 63 Daily Schedule...... 6 Neighborhood Services Organization INC...... 63 Perkins School of Theology...... 64 Southern Methodist University, Dallas...... 64 Administrative Services Saint Paul School of Theology...... 65 Administrative Services...... 8 South Central Jurisdictional Conference...... 65 Council on Finance and Administration...... 9 Resolutions and Documents Committee on Episcopacy...... 15 2013 Report on Vital Congregations...... 16 Standing Rules and Structure...... 66 Commission on Equitable Compensation...... 18 Church Discontinuances...... 74 Commission on Archives & History (CAH)...... 29 Committee on Nominations...... 78 Conference Board of Trustees ...... 30 Agency Emergency / Capital Fund...... 31 Board of Pension & Health Benefits, INC...... Report 1...... 32 Report 2...... 35 Report 3...... 41 Report 4...... 43 Report 5...... 44

Connectional Ministries Annual Conference Council...... 46 Discipleship Ministry Team...... 46 Discipleship for Small Membership Churches...... 46 Camp and Retreat Ministry...... 46 Board of Higher Education & Campus Ministry...... 47 Campus Ministries...... 48 Oklahoma City University...... 52 Council on Older Adult Ministries...... 52 Small Membership Church Commission...... 52 Council on Young Adult Ministry ...... 53 Leadership Development Ministry Team...... 53 Commission on Religion and Race...... 54 Commission on the Status and Role of Women...... Board of Laity...... 54 Mission and Service Ministry Team...... 55 Cookson Hills Center ...... 56 Criminal Justice & Mercy Ministries...... 56 Circle of Care ...... 57 Restore Hope Ministries, Tulsa...... 57 Skyline Urban Ministry, Oklahoma City...... 58 United Methodist Women, Oklahoma...... 58 The Office of Mission...... 59 Department of Communications...... 60 Department of Congregational Development...... 60

Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 87 Pre-Conference Workbook 2015 Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church 1501 N.W. 24th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73106-3635 www.okumc.org