70802-5700 LA Rouge, Baton Blvd. North 527 EMT#575 # PERMIT ..POSTAGE U.S. NON-PROFIT OG,LA ROUGE,

PAID VOL. 9, NO. 4BATON ROUGE, LA FEBRUARY 22, 2008 BATON Gates Foundation invites church to apply for grant The has been campaign would aim to raise $100 million through the United Nations Foundation, invited to apply for up to $5 million from over three years and especially would sup- which is helping to facilitate the grant the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and port the church’s efforts to eradicate malar- process. the United Nations Foundation to under- ia and other diseases of poverty in Africa. The development was announced Jan. 2008 write a campaign to strengthen its global Janice Riggle Huie, president of 26 by Bishop Felton E. May, interim chief Louisiana Annual health ministries. the United Methodist Council of , executive of the United Methodist Board of The fundraising, education and outreach received the invitation in mid-January Conference See Gates, page 3 June 1-4 Centenary College Shreveport, La. Hispanic Ministry Theme: Sanctifying Grace

Leesville Korean UMC /4

Rev. Sam Calvo, pastor of El Mesias in Kenner, is shown during a recent Baptism at the church. El Mesias, mainly an Hispanic/Latino congregation, is part of a growing Hispanic ministry in the Louisiana Annual Conference.The state has experi- enced a significant increase in its Hispanic/Latino population due to Hurricane Katrina and other factors. Conference outreach to Hispanics/Latinos expanded

Icons /5 Hispanic Ministries in the Louisiana tion services center is forming and will Sunday morning worship services at 9 Annual Conference are growing and be located in Alexandria. Rev. Juan a.m. in English and at 11 a.m. in Spanish. expanding, said Pete Aguila, chairperson Huertas, assistant pastor for Horseshoe First Grace UMC holds its traditional for the conference’s Hispanic Ministries UMC, will be spearheading this effort. service in English, followed by an 11 task force. The community centers are providing a.m. service which includes bi-lingual Until recently, efforts to minister to a variety of services, such as ESL components. “A Bible study in Spanish is Spanish speaking persons have been cen- (English as a Second Language), citizen- held every Wesdnesday,” added Rev. tralized at El Mesias United Methodist ship and GED classes. “We also offer Oscar Ramos. Ramos and his wife Rev. Church in Kenner. Now, community cen- mentoring and immigration assistance,” Juanita Ramos are GBGM missionaries ters serving the Hispanic population of said Maribel Calvo, a GBGM lay mis- to the Louisiana Conference working our conference are located at El Mesias sionary who works at El Mesias UMC with the expansion of Hispanic Ministries as well as First Grace UMC in New with her father-in-law and church pastor throughout the state. Orleans and Covenant UMC in Rev. Sam Calvo. Covenant UMC in Chalmette holds a Chalmette. El Mesias UMC, mainly an In addition, an ecumenical immigra- Hispanic/Latino congregation, holds See Ministry, page 7 St. Paul’s UMC /8 2 Louisiana Conference Now! FEBRUARY 22, 2008

ON THE JOURNEY Bishop leads tour to the Holy Land Quite a Week My heart is full of joy. My eyes are Orleans and assess- full of tears. My spirit is full of hope. ing their needs for My emotions are wrung out. It’s been next year. It is so quite a week and an even greater week- moving to hear how end! they are making Last Sunday Kay and I attended the progress and how launch service of one of our new church- they are recovering es, New Song United Methodist Church. from the ravages of This is the church being planted in the Katrina. The atti- Prairieville area and currently meeting in Bishop William W. tude of everyone we a theatre workshop building just outside Hutchinson talked with was Gonzales. Trey Harris is the pastor. It upbeat, positive and was an exciting morning, with some 140- hopeful for the future. My heart is full of 150 in attendance. Trey preached a mov- joy. ing sermon. The congregation was filled This morning, Sunday, I had the joy with people of all ages. It is apparent of preaching at the rededication services there has been much work done to come at First UMC, Slidell. The beautiful to this point in this young church’s life refurbished sanctuary, which was seri- and I believe they are off to a great start! ously damaged by Katrina, was a delight My heart is full of joy. to behold. The atmosphere of worship A group from the Louisiana Annual Conference recently traveled to the Holy Monday began with my reporting for was filled with the Holy Spirit. In spite Land with Bishop William W. Hutchinson and his wife Kay.The Bishop is shown Jury Duty. Yes, Jury Duty! I had been of a rainy day, happiness filled the room. in the above photo sprinkling water from the Jordan River in a “Remembering excused two times before and I just My heart is full of joy. Our Baptism” service in which the traveling group participated. couldn’t be excused another time. So, I Early this morning I learned that a showed up at the courthouse, along with dear friend and former staff member in hundreds of others who had been sum- New Mexico had succumbed to the per- moned, and went through the paces of sistent invasion of cancer in her body. 2008 Pre-Conference Meetings becoming assigned to a panel that would My eyes are full of tears. be used to supply jurors if needed. After All afternoon today and into the the orientation, we were sent to the city evening we continued our meetings in Acadiana Sunday, May 4 3:00 pm 1st UMC, Lafayette library where we spent the remainder of New Orleans with churches that are in Monday, May 5 6:30 pm Pharr Chapel, the day just sitting and waiting. Nothing the Mission Zone. While their spirits Morgan City happened and we were dismissed until were good and their outlook positive, our Alexandria Tuesday, May 6 6:30pm 1st UMC, Pineville the next morning. brothers and sisters in the New Orleans On Tuesday I showed up at 8:00 am East Cooperative Parish (Cornerstone, Baton Rouge Sunday, May 18 4:00pm 1st UMC, to begin yet another day of sitting in the Hartzell, and Covenant Chalmette) are Baton Rouge library and waiting. One thing I did still enduring tremendous hardships. Lake Charles Tuesday, May 6 7:00pm St. Luke Simpson accomplish is I finished my latest Tony Their shoulders are broad and their Monroe Monday, May 12 6:30pm McGuire UMC, Hillerman novel, The Shape Shifter. I minds focus upward, but they are hurting West Monroe worked for a while on possible pastoral in the midst of recovering. My eyes are appointments, and I began an Alan Alda full of tears. My spirit is full of hope. New Orleans Sunday, May 4 3:00pm St.Timothy UMC book entitled Things I Overheard While I had a wonderful dinner meeting Shreveport Monday, May 12 6:00pm Asbury UMC, Talking to Myself. In late morning I was tonight on my way out of New Orleans Bossier dismissed permanently and I went back with one of our pastors. He is doing to my office to tackle many administra- great work at his church and he wants to tive things that needed my attention. My do more for Christ’s Kingdom. My heart heart is full of joy. is filled with joy. My spirit is filled with Wednesday afternoon and evening I hope. Louisiana Conference Now! joined the District Superintendents, Now here I sit at the computer, hop- Provost and VIM Director in hosting the ing to say a word to you that is helpful. William W. Hutchinson Resident Bishop Oklahoma Cabinet at Sager-Brown, the My emotions are wrung out! But as I Don Cottrill UMCOR Depot. The Oklahomans had count my times of joy as opposed to the Provost come as a work team to Dulac and were time of tears, I rejoice. As I realize the Betty Backstrom Editor visiting Sager-Brown for an information- signs of hope outnumber the times of al tour. It was a joy to welcome them tears, I celebrate. It’s really been a great and thank them for their participation in week and an even greater weekend! My, Louisiana Conference NOW! is the newspaper of the Louisiana Annual Conference of the massive storm recovery effort we my, my! What a journey we have as fol- The United Methodist Church and is published twice a month. Subscriptions are $15 for one year, $25 for two years. have underway in Louisiana. My heart lowers of Christ! “To God be the glory, (Please make checks payable to Louisiana Annual Conference.) is full of joy. great things He has done.” Send subscriptions, news and information to: Thursday and Friday were back to the grind in the office. So many things had In Christ’s love, Editor stacked up and it was good to have two 527 North Boulevard days to try and address them. My heart Baton Rouge, LA 70802 is full of joy. Bill Hutchinson E-mail: [email protected] All day Saturday Dr. Ralph Ford, Dr. (888) 239-5286 ext. 227 Martha Orphe, and I spent twelve (225) 346-1646, (225) 383-2652 fax straight hours hearing the stories of churches in the Mission Zone in New You can find the Louisiana Annual Conference on the Internet at http://www.la-umc.org FEBRUARY 22, 2008 Louisiana Conference Now! 3 2008 General Conference to encourage ‘Holy Conferencing’ BY BUZZY ANDING same amount of business conducted at the agenda, with the overarching goal of “mak- business world already follows. Church LA.CONFERENCE LAY last such assembly. Petitions filed for con- ing disciples of Jesus Christ for the trans- agencies were also asked to shape their LEADER sideration and action by delegates cover a formation of the world.” The new agenda funding requests around the four new areas United Methodists wide range of topics, including such issues includes four areas of major focus to guide of focus. Also for the first time, the General worldwide will gather as global warming, the death penalty, the future work of the denomination: devel- Council on Finance and Administration this spring for the divestiture of church investment in compa- oping principled Christian leaders for the shared the budget-building process with the quadrennial General nies lending support to conflict in the church and the world; creating “new places Connectional Table. Conference, opening at Middle East and Sudan, abortion, transgen- for new generations” by starting new The $642 million budget represents a the Fort Worth derism, homosexuality, the size and make- churches and renewing existing ones; 1.2 percent annual increase for a total Convention Center on up of General Conference, and term limits engaging in ministry with the poor; and increase of 4.8 percent over four years. It George‘Buzzy’ and retirement age for Bishops. fighting the killer diseases of poverty such was noted at the briefing that this budget April 23. As the top Anding policy-making body of Rev. Bob Burgess and I, Louisiana’s as malaria, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. It represents only 1 percent of the net spend- the international United Methodist Church, lead lay and clergy delegates, recently is hoped that this new direction will help ing of the entire denomination. General Conference is the only body that attended the United Methodist Pre-General United Methodists unite to address the With United Methodist membership on officially speaks for the denomination. Conference News Briefing in Fort Worth, world’s core needs, reclaim the church’s the decline in the United States, while During the 10-day session, 992 delegates and reported that delegates to this General Wesleyan heritage, and begin a movement growing in Africa and the Philippines, the (including 10 from the Louisiana Annual Conference can expect wider international toward more active discipleship and church makeup of General Conference delegates Conference) will revise the Book of representation, a denominational budget growth. will reflect those trends. Central conference Discipline, which regulates the manner in built around four new areas of focus, and To further promote harmonious and delegates (those in annual conferences out- which local churches, annual conferences opening sessions aimed at fostering unity productive debate, church leaders have also side the United States) will have 278 dele- and general agencies are organized, and through common ministry instead of grid- endorsed the concept of, and promulgated gates, 100 more than in 2004. Annual con- which also contains the policies regarding lock over divisive social issues. In addition guidelines for, “Holy Conferencing.” The ferences in U.S. jurisdictions have elected church membership, ordination of clergy, to the traditional Episcopal and lay address- guidelines are a set of 10 principles which 714 delegates. administration, social issues and judicial es, delegates will also hear the first-ever encourage respect, civility and mutual Additional information about General procedures. Delegates will also adopt reso- Young People’s address, delivered jointly understanding, as well as seek to ensure Conference can be found on the denomina- lutions on current social, moral, public pol- by six teens and young adults who promise that diverse voices can be heard in the con- tion’s web site, at www.umc.org, with digi- icy and economic issues, as well as a presentation “different from anything sideration of legislation and resolutions. tal recordings of the pre-conference brief- approve plans and budgets for denomina- that’s ever before been presented to The pre-conferencing briefing featured ing sessions available at www tion-wide programs for the next four years. General Conference.” a review of the $642 million, four-year Leader.gc2008.umc.org. Laity and clergy The 2008 General Conference will meet In an effort to change the focus of spending plan for the denomination begin- alike are encouraged to send messages of for 10 days – two fewer than the 2004 debate from divisive social issues to posi- ning in 2009––and the new processes and concern, inquiry or support to the gathering in Pittsburgh and with no break – tive opportunities for mission and ministry, criteria for developing the budget proposal. Louisiana delegation at to consider and take action upon more than the Council of Bishops and other denomi- For the first time, the plan was built on an [email protected] 1,500 petitions, which represents about the national leaders have formulated a new “outcome-based” model that much of the

Episcopal candidates interviewed by general and jurisdictional conference delegates

Every four years, before General Conference begins, each delegation in the 15 conferences of the South Central Jurisdiction interviews each candidate for the office of Bishop sepa- rately. The delegation from the Louisiana Annual Conference held these interviews at the conference office in Baton Rouge on Feb. 8. In preparation for these interviews, each can- didate provided written responses to a series of questions that were provided by the jurisdiction. Not all jurisdictions follow this process. Some other jurisdictions wait and inter- view candidates just before their jurisdictional conference in the summer when Bishops are elected.The South Central jurisdictional candidates for the episcopacy have entered a grueling round of interviews that stretch over six weeks from Feb. 1 to March 15. The candidates, pictured above right, are Earl Bledsoe, endorsed by the Texas Conference and Black Methodists for Church Renewal (BMCR);Jim Welch, endorsed by the Texas Conference;Tim Bruster, endorsed by the Central Texas Conference; Roberto Gomez, endorsed by the Rio Grande Conference and Methodists Associated for the Hispanic American Cause (MARCHA); Jim Dorff, endorsed by the North Texas Conference; Cheryl Bell, endorsed by the Kansas West Conference, the Kansas East, Conference, Black Methodists for Church Renewal and the Women’s Leadership Team (WLT); Rodney Steele, endorsed by the Arkansas Conference and Black Methodists for Church Renewal ;Mike Lowry, endorsed by the Southwest Texas Conference; Steve Rankin, endorsed by the Kansas West Conference.

Gates, from page 1 the campaign, and ministries that will be ple of the church in support of eliminating ing operated hospitals, clinics, schools and Global Ministries, and the Rev. Larry supported by the campaign. malaria,” Gore said in a Jan. 15 letter to mission centers across Africa for more than Hollon, chief executive of United The invitation to apply for a Gates Huie. “It is our goal to work in partnership 160 years. Methodist Communications. Foundation grant represents “an extraordi- with you and executive leadership over the In recent years, the denomination has The denomination plans to submit a for- nary opportunity” for the people of The coming years to save lives and inspire the increasingly sought ways to partner with mal grant proposal in a process that began United Methodist Church, said Elizabeth launch of an inspirational movement within other organizations—particularly in its last May with a letter of inquiry. Both May Gore, executive director of partnership the church.” global health initiatives—to leverage fund- and Hollon said many details must be alliances for the U.N. Foundation. The United Methodist Church has long ing and gain greater access to networks and worked out regarding the grant, operating “The immediate success of Nothing But been a key player in the fight against knowledge that can contribute to substan- Nets has built momentum among the peo- malaria and other diseases of poverty, hav- tive global change. 4 Louisiana Conference Now! FEBRUARY 22, 2008

Bayou Blue UMC

The winners of the 2007 Edward Askew Memorial Missions Run/Walk, sponsored by Pharr Chapel United Methodist Church in Morgan City, proudly display their medals. The 2008 event is scheduled for Saturday, March 15. Bayou Blue UMC recently celebrated UMW Sunday. Pictured are guest speaker Rev. Regina Hickman,Vickie Bollinger, UMW president, and Michelle LeBoeuf. Pharr Chapel UMC Bayou Blue United Methodist Church and Rev. Regina Hickman of Golden in Houma celebrated United Methodist Meadow and Grand Isle UMCs delivered Pharr Chapel United Methodist Church For a registration form, visit phar- Women’s Day on Feb. 10 during a service the message. Michelle LeBoeuf, UMW in Morgan City invites all interested parties rchapelumc.org, call the church office at planned by UMW President Vickie Woman of the Year, was presented with a to participate in the 10th Edward Askew (985) 384-7984, or e-mail Rev. Lamar Bollinger. The congregation enjoyed an pin at this service. Memorial Missions Run/Walk to be held Oliver at [email protected] All anthem performed by an all-ladies’ choir, on Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 9 a.m. proceeds go towards supporting the mis- There are prizes given for all age groups sion’s ministry and teams of Pharr Chapel and many other categories. Post-race fel- UMC. Leesville Korean UMC lowship includes a complimentary lunch.

Members of Leesville Korean United Methodist Church, a multicultural congregation in the Lake Charles District, are pictured during fellowship time.The congregation is grow- ing in its ministry to persons of Korean descent. A Korean Christian song and dance group was featured during a service where four persons were baptized.

Leesville Korean United Methodist service was offered last year, during which Church, a multicultural congregation in the four persons were baptized. Haven-Trinity UMC Lake Charles District, is growing in its The church is badly in need of repair of ministry to persons of Korean descent. the roof, which was damaged in Hurricane Haven-Trinity United Methodist Adrela Upshaw and Althea Childress Sermons are offered in Korean and Rita. The cost of repair is more than the Church celebrated United Methodist joined keynote speaker Phyllis Jefferson, English in Sunday morning worship, which insurance settlement, and members of the Women Sunday with an installation of who spoke on the theme “Go Forward: has an average attendance of 20 people. congregation are tithing to a building fund officers, conducted by Evelyn Martin. Resurrection Women.” The service was Bible study is offered every Wednesday to pay for the repair and future repairs that Martin, the dean of the 2008 School led by Rev. Charles Washington, pastor. evening, and members are encouraged to may be needed. of Christian Mission, is a member of The 2008 School of Christian Mission read the Bible every morning at the church Plans to start a Bible study in English Haven-Trinity UMC. is scheduled for July 23-26 at The at 6 a.m. are slated for 2008. During the Sunday service, soloists Wesley Center in Woodworth. A Korean Christian song and dance FEBRUARY 22, 2008 Louisiana Conference Now! 5

Artist creates icons of the civil rights movement BY JOHN GORDON Spirit moved ordinary people to do very When artist Pamela Chatterton-Purdy extraordinary things. began working on her latest project depict- "So many of these people gave their ing heroes of the U.S. civil rights move- lives for freedom." ment, she drew on her own experiences-- Both of Purdy's latest artistic projects beginning as a civil rights activist herself in are shaped by dark days in U.S. history. the 1960s. Her first icon series dealt with the 9/11 ter- Purdy and her husband, David, a retired rorist attack. A lifelong United Methodist, United Methodist pastor and district super- she struggled with her own questions about intendent, were among white people who the tragedy. marched hand-in-hand with African In her latest project, some of the icons Americans fighting for racial equality. Her note the role of children in the civil rights first job was with Ebony magazine. The movement-the Ku Klux Klan's brutal mur- couple's experiences grew even more per- der of 14-year-old Emmett Till in sonal after they adopted an African- Mississippi in 1955 and the arrest of hun- American son and another son of African- dreds of young demonstrators who partici- American and Vietnamese descent. pated in the 1963 children's campaign in She "connected the dots" of her experi- Birmingham, Ala. ences and her passion for civil rights in her She hopes her audience includes young Icons of the Civil Rights project in time for people today "who take it for granted that A volunteer helps clear away fallen trees in Atkins, Ark., one day after a Feb. 5 tornado struck the area.The twister killed four people in the town and caused extensive dam- Black History Month and the 40th anniver- blacks have as many rights as whites. They age. Tennessee, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi and Alabama also reported deaths and sary of the assassination of the Rev. Martin shouldn't take it for granted," said Purdy, "because that prize was won with a lot of destruction from a rare, midwinter storm that spurred dozens of tornadoes. A UMNS Luther King Jr. The images took her three- photo by Billy Reeder. and-a-half months to create. blood." Her 16 wood and gold-leaf icons are Till's murder was the "dawn of my own being displayed at schools, churches and awakening" of the civil rights movement, Update: United Methodists respond to storms the Boston Statehouse. said the Rev. Wesley Williams, pastor of Orleans United Methodist Church in NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) - United wife, Betty, were hospitalized for carbon "I did them from a very religious stand- Methodists are helping communities in monoxide poisoning from a generator they point, in that I really see the civil rights Orleans, Mass., where the icons were shown. "I was about 9 years old when that four states recover from a series of torna- were using after the storms knocked out movement as God present in the Holy does that killed nearly 60 people in one electricity. Both were expected to be Spirit," said Purdy, 67, who lives in happened. And I think it was my first expe- rience with having to consider death." night. released from the hospital Feb. 7, Carr Harwich Port on Cape Cod. "The Holy A rare midwinter storm spawned the said. tornadoes that struck the U.S. South Feb. 5, In Alabama, Upper Sand Mountain flattening homes and businesses. Alabama, Parish Director Teddy Crum reported that Arkansas and Kentucky all suffered fatali- “at least 16 families in our area lost their ties, with Tennessee experiencing the high- homes completely while others suffered est death toll at 32, according to news major damages to homes.” reports. The Rev. Charlie Douglas, who inspect- Bethpage (Tenn.) United Methodist ed the hardest-hit areas in Kentucky, said Church is collecting donations to help pay all the damage is centered in four counties, for the funeral of a young mother, Karey with Muhlenberg reporting the worst dam- Beth Stowell, whose infant was ripped age. Douglas said 150 to 175 homes in from her arms during the deadly rampage. three communities in that county were The infant was found and taken to the hos- destroyed. pital and is doing well, according to the First United Methodist Church in Rev. James R. Hewgley. Another family in Central City, Ky., is serving as a distribu- his congregation lost grandparents in the tion point for a shelter close to the church. storm. “Right now, we just need help removing The church is also serving as a drop-off debris,” Douglas said. site for donations to storm victims. “We Injuries and extensive property damage have a big parking lot, 22 acres, and we were reported in 10 Arkansas counties. The can handle big trucks while many other hardest hit communities were Atkins, areas are blocked by debris,” Hewgley Cleveland, Clinton, Ash Flat, Highland, said. Mountain View, Zion, Junction City and Two United Methodist churches in Gassville. Tennessee were damaged, but Bill Carr, The United Methodist Committee on disaster relief coordinator in the Memphis Relief issued a $10,000 emergency grant to Annual (regional) Conference said the help with the Arkansas Conference’s initial church was “so blessed.” response. President Bush declared Macedonia United Methodist Church in Arkansas a major disaster site and ordered Arlington, Tenn., suffered minor damage, federal aid to supplement state and local and Andrews Chapel United Methodist recovery efforts. Church had moderate damage, Carr said. Churches across the state are serving as United Methodist-related Lambuth collection sites for supplies such as water, College in Jackson, Tenn., reached out to blankets, ready-to-eat foods, personal care students and faculty from Union. items and cleaning products. “I want to thank all our faculty, staff and UMCOR is working with the areas students who have volunteered to help affected by the storm and has sent out Union,” said R. Fred Zuker, president of some emergency grants, said the Rev. Tom Lambuth. “I am especially grateful to those Hazelwood, the agency’s domestic disaster students who prepared rooms and stood by coordinator. The Rev.Wesley Williams, pastor of Orleans (Mass.) United Methodist Church, views an to welcome any Union students who Christy Smith of Brownsville, Tenn., icon of Jimmie Lee Jackson, one of 16 heroes and events highlighted in the Icons of the sought refuge on our campus. This effort is near Jackson, is coordinating UMCOR’s Civil Rights Movement project by artist Pamela Chatterton-Purdy, top. A lifelong United indicative of our students’ character and response to the tornadoes. Methodist, Purdy created the 16 wood and gold-leaf icons to mark the 40th anniversary their generosity of spirit.” Checks for relief can be dropped in of the assassination of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Black History Month.The exhibit, shown here at Williams' church, is being displayed at schools, churches and the The Rev. Thomas Bullock, pastor of church collection plates. Write “UMCOR Boston statehouse. A UMNS photo by John Gordon Dyer United Methodist Church, and his Advance #901670, Super Tuesday.” 6 Louisiana Conference Now! FEBRUARY 22, 2008

Bishop’s Laity Retreat set for March 14-15 Umpact meetings set Feb. 24-29 “Making a Difference in Your Church’s ident of St. Paul School of Theology in Future” is the theme of the biennial Kansas City, Missouri, and for three years The Conference Board of Trustees is ence sharp increases in property insur- Bishop’s Laity Retreat to be held March as vice president of Wesley Theological exploring the possibility of comprehen- ance premiums due to the catastrophic 14-15 at The Wesley Center in Woodworth, Seminary. For 20 years he served as a pas- sive insurance coverage for the churches losses and the risk associated with La. Sponsored by the Louisiana tor and administrative leader in The United of the Louisiana Conference with potential future attacks. The Conference Conference Board of Laity, the retreat will Methodist Church, including service on UMPACT (United Methodist Property Council on Finance and Administration feature keynote speaker Rev. Dr. Lovett multiple occasions as a delegate to General and Casualty Trust). UMPACT is a cap- met with leaders of UMPACT in August Weems, Jr., Distinguished Professor of and Jurisdictional Conferences. He is a past tive insurance program of The United 2005 to explore our participation. A Church Leadership and Director of the G. president of the Association of United Methodist Church with approximately week later, Louisiana was hit with the Douglass Lewis Center for Church Methodist Theological Schools in the 20 of the 63 conferences participating in devastation of Hurricane Katrina. A Leadership at Wesley Theological United States. this coverage. UMPACT informational month later we were hit by Hurricane Seminary in Washington, D.C. . Check-in registration will begin at the meetings for pastors and lay leadership Rita. Weems will join Bishop William Wesley Center at 4 p.m. on Friday, March will be held in each District from Feb. The CFA voted to place the Hutchinson in facilitating the exploration 14, with the first presentation to begin at 7 24-29. At these same meetings, discus- Conference insurance coverage with and discussion of crucial issues facing our p.m., after dinner. The retreat will end fol- sions will be held regarding “Safe UMPACT, which in turn opened the church, as well as the critical role of the lowing lunch and a communion worship Sanctuaries” policies. Prior to these door for the churches of the Conference laity in leading the church into the future. service at approximately 2 p.m. on meetings, each church will complete a to get quotes from UMPACT for their Presentation topics will include Saturday, March 15. survey that has been sent digitally coverage. Several churches have already “Provocative Questions for the UMC,” For those staying at The Wesley Center, through the District offices in regard to placed their business with UMPACT. “Leading Lasting Change in the Church,” the individual fees for the retreat, inclusive the UMPACT matter. Churches are Dates, times and venues for the and “Congregational Leadership in the of registration fee, one night’s lodging at asked to return the completed survey to UMPACT/Safe Sanctuaries meetings Wesleyan Spirit.” the Wesley Center, three meals, snacks, our Conference insurance agent. This are as follows: Rev. Dr. Weems is a popular and high- coffee and beverages, are as follows: may be done by email to Acadiana, Feb. 25, 6-9 p.m., ly-sought-after writer and lecturer on the Single room (single occupancy) - $100; [email protected], by fax Covenant UMC in Lafayette; subject of church leadership. A prolific Double Room (double occupancy) - $85; to the attention of Melinda Comeaux at Alexandria, Feb. 27, 6-9 p.m., author, he has more than 250 published Triple Room (triple occupancy) - $80. For (225) 923-3418 or by mail to McInnis First UMC in Alexandria; articles and books on various aspects of those lodging elsewhere, the registration Tyner, 7814 Office Park Blvd., Baton Baton Rouge, Feb. 24, 2-5 p.m., First leadership theory and practice, including fee for the retreat, including meals and Rouge, LA 70809. If you have any UMC in Gonzales; Take the Next Step: Leading Lasting snacks, is $50. questions regarding the survey, please Lake Charles, Feb. 26, 6-9 p.m., First Change in the Church, Leadership in the For advance registration contact Cathy call Melinda Comeaux at (225) 215- UMC in Lake Charles; Wesleyan Spirit, Church Leadership, and Wimberly at The Wesley Center. Call 4975. We would like to receive this Monroe, Feb. 29, 6-9 p.m., Lea ’s Message Today. Many of (318) 449-4500; or by e-mail at completed survey by Feb. 15. This data Joyner Memorial UMC in Monroe; his books on leadership are used regularly [email protected]. Please will help to establish a comprehensive New Orleans, Feb. 24, 3:30-6:30 as seminary textbooks. get in touch with Cathy soon, to ensure premium rate which should be available p.m., First UMC in LaPlace; Before becoming Director of the Lewis your place. by April 1 in time to guide our decision Shreveport, Feb. 28, 6-9 p.m., Center, Weems served for 18 years as pres- at the June Annual Conference session. Broadmoor UMC (Pearce Hall) in Following the terrorist attack of 9/11, Shreveport. churches in Louisiana began to experi- Duffy Robbins to speak March 14-15 Duffy Robbins, a who works with youth at your church. youth ministry veteran, Trinity UMC is located at 1000 West Igniting Ministry grants awarded is coming to the Woodward in Ruston, La. Louisiana Annual Light refreshments will be provided Friday Over $68,000 in television ads will air matching funds grants from UMCom for Conference March 14- evening, with breakfast and lunch served from March 12-22 in seven Louisiana their respective campaigns. 15 at Trinity United on Saturday. Special arrangements have broadcast markets during a Lenten Igniting These churches are: New Song on Old Methodist Church in been made for housing at the Sleep Inn & Ministry campaign sponsored by United Perkins Road UMC in Prairieville, receiv- Ruston. Suites, 106 South Service Road, East Methodist Communications (UMCom). A ing $8,928 for their portion of a cinema Robbins will Ruston, La 71270, (318) 232-1100. matching grant from UMCom, in addition and direct mail campaign; First UMC in inspire, invigorate and Lodging will be $70 each for 1-4 persons to communications funds from the seven Hammond, receiving $2,570 for their por- inform participants dur- Duffy Robbins per room. Participants will need to call to districts, will underwrite the cost of the tion of a radio and cinema buy; Oak Park ing the two-day event, focusing on youth make their own reservations. Ask for advertising which builds up to Easter UMC in Lake Charles, receiving $2,033 ministry “how to’s” and “what if’s”. “Group Reservation: Adult Workers with focusing on the Igniting Ministry theme— for their half of a radio campaign; and This training will benefit anyone who Youth—Trinity UMC.”For more informa- “Open hearts, open minds, open doors.” Aurora UMC in New Orleans, receiving works with youth in the church. Whether tion call Brian Mercer at (318) 251-0750 The campaign will be conducted in tan- $2,225 for their portion of a cinema cam- you are a volunteer youth director/coordi- or Tom Dolph at (225) 346-1646. dem with a national television advertising paign. nator, youth counselor, Sunday School Registration can be completed online by campaign in late March that will broadcast Broadmoor UMC in Shreveport teacher or full-time staff, there will be visiting the Conference website at www.la- on 15 cable networks. received a grant of $15,107 for a $30,000 something here for you. Bring every one umc.org In addition to the conference buy, five plus LED sign. local churches in the Louisiana Annual Conference have been awarded separate Academy for Spiritual Leadership reunion slated Rev. Carole Cotton Winn, director for ing old friends and making new ones. Why The Academy for Spiritual Leadership, not contact that good buddy you met at the invites Sojourners to attend the 10th Academy and encourage him or her to join The following churches were inadvertantly Anniversary Reunion Retreat April 17-19, you? Or get some of the individuals from 2008 at The Wesley Center in Woodworth. your Covenant Circle to meet you there! left off of the list for those congregations The retreat leader is Academy favorite Rev. Rates for the event are single occupancy that paid 100% of their apportionments. Jane Vennard from Illiff School of for $160, and double occupancy for $126. Theology. Continuing education credits will be given. The retreat will follow the familiar Register online at www.la-umc.org . “rhythm” of Sabbath rest, covenant groups, Select Spiritual Formation from the menu, Shreveport District Monroe District music, morning and evening prayers, and and scroll down the Academy’s web page Shady Grove UMC Memorial UMC the book sales table. The entire event will to the Reunion Retreat. You may also con- be “seasoned” with good and abiding fel- tact Linda Gregg at [email protected] Rev Joe D. Connelly Rev Paul E. Sabin lowship. or (225) 346-1646. We’ll save a place for Participants will feel like they have you at “the Inn”. stepped back into an Academy retreat, see- FEBRUARY 22, 2008 Louisiana Conference Now! 7

Ministry, from page 1 “Many suffered violence and have been bi-lingual worship service at 4 p.m. on taken advantage of by employers and land- Sundays, in addition to English services in lords. As we seek to help these groups, the the morning. “We invite people from the church must develop and practice programs morning service to come and participate in that promote justice for our neighbors. afternoon worship, intentionally trying to Many are poor and have experienced trau- reach new people in the community,” said ma,” said Calvo, who added that the Rev. Juanita Ramos. church must promote government change El Mesias UMC is located in Kenner, in immigration laws. which is the hub of the Hispanic/Latino A major thrust of Hispanic Ministries is immigrant community in the city. Those to improve and increase efforts to reach attending services are primarily from and welcome the Hispanic/Latino commu- Guatemala, Nicaragua, Honduras, Puerto nities of Louisiana through advertising and Rico, Costa Rica, and Cuba. Most are public relations, said Oscar Ramos. “We working class immigrants, employed in are reaching out through radio and TV pro- construction and domestic jobs. gramming and using banners printed in “We have grown from an average Spanish. We are also making contacts by attendance of 10-15 in 2000 to an average visiting neighborhoods and communities.” attendance of 65 in 2008. Attendance Creating a welcoming community gives would likely be higher if not for space con- the church the real possibility of having straints in the church’s sanctuary,” said diverse congregations, added Ramos. “We Calvo. The church is working toward should be in the process of embracing the building a new, larger sanctuary in the next things we have in common. We should also five years on the church’s existing proper- appreciate our differences because they ty. serve to enrich our lives. People every- Other community outreach services where have the same dreams, same hopes offered include health fairs and semi-annu- and expectations. There is no such thing as al health surveys. Translation services are a perfect culture or way of life. Once we also available on an as-needed basis. are followers of Christ, we are part of the Individual and family counseling are avail- whole, universal church.” able at the church, and food and clothing Multi-cultural trainings are being are provided to anyone in need. offered in local churches in New Orleans Rev. Sam Calvo hosts a weekly radio by the GBGM missionaries and Rev. program in Spanish, sharing the gospel Orphe. Efforts are also being made to train with listeners and answering their phone-in clergy and laity to lead Hispanic/Latino questions. Maribel Calvo, Oscar Ramos ministries throughout the state, which is and Juanita Ramos will share the hosting experiencing an increase in these popula- duties of the radio program in 2008. Once tions as a whole due to Hurricane Katrina and other factors. “Many of the people Maribel Calvo, GBGM missionary, is shown top right as she awards Lay Speaking a month the program, will be offered in Certificates to members of El Mesias UMC in Kenner. In the bottom photo, Rev. Oscar Portuguese by Maribel for the growing serving on the construction teams rebuild- ing the state are immigrant workers,” said Ramos, left, and Rev. Martha Orphe lead a recent conference on multi-culturalism at Brazilian community in the New Orleans First Grace UMC in New Orleans. area. Calvo. Maribel Calvo, Rev. Juanita Ramos and Another important focus of Hispanic Rev. Martha Orphe (Mission Zone Director Ministries in the conference is the develop- Advertising favorably impacts perceptions for the conference) recently returned from ment of other Faith Communities. Plans a consultation addressing the problems are in place to start one in Baton Rouge NASHVILLE, Tenn.: New research percent in 2002 faced by immigrants in the United States. and to re-start one in LaPlace. indicates that the “Open hearts. Open 41 percent said United Methodist help minds. Open doors.” advertising is proving you find deeper meaning and purpose in to be effective in communicating key char- life, compared to only 26 percent in 2002 acteristics of The United Methodist 51 percent said United Methodists help Group travels to Africa University Church. people facing personal difficulty, up from “One of the challenges that denomina- 38 percent in 2002 tions typically face is that people don’t The survey showed that those exposed really know that much about them,” said to the advertising campaign were much the Rev. Larry Hollon, chief executive of more likely to hold favorable views of The United Methodist Communications. “The United Methodist Church than those who survey data gives us an indication that the did not recall the advertising. campaign has helped to reframe people’s The campaign was started in 2001 with indistinct perceptions about the church into a threefold purpose: to increase awareness something more positive.” and recognition of The United Methodist The study assessed ten different state- Church’s basic beliefs, to promote willing- ments about The United Methodist Church ness to visit a United Methodist church, that reflect the intended communications and to renew a sense of commitment within the advertising messages developed among United Methodists. Independent for the campaign. More than 1,200 respon- research is conducted annually to deter- dents from six test markets were inter- mine if the campaign is reaching those viewed by the Barna Research Group in goals. order to better understand how the denomi- Other highlights of the 2007 research: nation is positioned among the target audi- 42 percent of respondents surveyed said ence (adults ages 21-60 who do not attend their impression of The United Methodist a United Methodist church and are search- Church was very or somewhat favorable, ing for something spiritually). up from 37 percent in 2006 Among the findings: 54 percent of those surveyed expressed 58 percent of respondents agreed that a willingness to visit a United Methodist United Methodists care for and support Church, up from 47 percent in 2006 A group from the Louisiana Annual Conference visited Africa University for a fact- each other, compared to 43 percent sur- 59 percent of respondents recalled the finding tour in the conference’s effort to assist the university with an upcoming veyed in 2002 tagline: “Open hearts. Open minds. Open capital campaign.The group was led by Rev. Martha Orphe, Mission Zone Director 57 percent believed United Methodist doors.” for the conference. Orphe is pictured fourth from the left. accept you for who you are, up from 45 The complete survey is available online. 8 Louisiana Conference Now! FEBRUARY 22, 2008

St. Paul’s UMC holds a ‘Blessing of the pets service’

St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Harahan held its first Blessing of the Animals service Nov. 17, 2007. “I have been wanting to do this service for some time now and it was wonderful,” said Rev. Sheri Zehner, pastor.“I asked Rev. Jon Lord (Carrollton/Metairie) to assist me. It was his first animal blessing service as well.” A total of 16 dogs and 4 cats of all shapes and sizes were blessed. One of the cats was a rescue ani- mal fom Hurricane Katrina. Rev. Zehner is shown holding an expectant pup, left, and blessing a standard poodle, right.

Job Opportunities Your United Methodist Church: Aldersgate UMC DIRECTOR OF ADULT MINISTRIES Full time position. Minimum of ou’ve grown up there, learned about Associate Degree with four year degree preferred. Experience in religious educa- God, and worshipped weekly in tion preferred. Excellent written and Y oral communication skills required with ability to motivate others and maintain its sanctuary. You support it with your a flexible schedule. Send resume to Aldersgate United Methodist Church, annual pledge because you love it and 360 Robert Blvd., Slidell, LA 70458 care about its future. But what will DIRECTOR OF MUSIC MINISTRIES Full time position. Bachelor's degree happen after your lifetime? with music emphasis or equivalent. Previous choral direction experience desired. Excellent written and oral com- munication skills required with comput- $100 $5,000 er competency in PowerPoint. Ability to You can motivate others and maintain a flexible $200 $10,000 schedule a must. Send resume to If your perpetuate Aldersgate United Methodist Church, $300 $15,000 360 Robert Blvd., Slidell, LA 70458. annual $500 them with a $25,000 gifts Horseshoe UMC $1,000 bequest of $50,000 total: Director of Children & Youth Ministries at least: $100,000 Horseshoe Drive UMC in Alexandria, La $2,000 is seeking a full time Director of $5,000 $250,000 Children and Youth Ministries. We are looking for a person with a commitment to Christian formation of children and youth, communications skills, and working knowledge of UM theology and Memorialize your gifts with a bequest or practice. A bachelor degree in Christian education, elementary or secondary education required. Candidates with a EHQH¿FLDU\ GHVLJQDWLRQ WR \RXU FKXUFK degree in a related field or equivalent experience will be considered. For more 8337 Jefferson Hwy. information please contact church office 318-442-1984, horse- Baton Rouge, LA 70809 [email protected], Or www.hdumc.org 225.346.1535 or 800.256.9317 www.umfgiving.org