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2015 - 2016 Appointments on pages 11-21 Vol. 183 • July 2015 • No. 7
Connecting with the Virginia Advocate The official magazine of the Virginia Conference of The United Methodist Church
FROM THE DIRECTOR P.O. Box 5606, Glen Allen, VA 23058 Phone: 1-800-768-6040 or John Wesley, founder of Methodism, and his brother, 804-521-1100 Fax: 804-521-1174 Charles, established small groups called “Holy Clubs” when E-mail: [email protected] they were students at Oxford. These groups nurtured members Website: www.vaumc.org Detailed guidelines for the following in their Christian faith and held each other accountable for Christian available upon request. living. Subscriptions In the early days of the Methodist Church, this same idea was Print subscriptions are $15/one year; $25/ two years; $36/three years. Special bulk used. “Classes” with about 12 people in each class were formed to rate for five or more copies going to a single address is $12 each for one year. Subscrip- Linda S. Rhodes hold each other accountable and ensure church members were living tions are $20/year for both printed copy and VAUMC Director of a Christian life. A frequent question class members asked each other online access. For online only, cost is $10/ year. Subscribe online at www.vaumc.org, Communications was, “How is it with your soul?” under “Resources>Publications.” From 1776 to 1850 American Methodism spread across the United Deadlines The Advocate is published once a month. States like wildfire. It grew from about 2.5 percent of those practic- The deadline to submit news and ad copy for the August 2015 issue is July 1. For more ing religion in the American colonies in 1776 (the second smallest of information on future deadlines, contact the the major denominations of that time) to more than 34 percent of Advocate office or visit the website. all religious adherents in the United States in 1850 (14 percent more Advertising/Tributes Rates for advertising and tributes are avail- than the next largest religious group). able upon request. Back During this period, hundreds of thousands of people made profes- Local Church News sions of faith in Christ because of the preaching, testimony and minis- Items should be typed (preferably sent via to e-mail) or printed legibly, no more than try of American Methodists. And throughout this period of growth, 100 words, and of conference-wide interest. Complete names of individuals, churches and basics every Methodist participated in a weekly class meeting. districts should be included. Because of space limitations, the Local Church section prohib- Some scholars and historians have argued that the class meeting its news items related to church members’ birthdays (of less than 100 years), wedding was the most important factor in the growth of early Methodism. anniversaries, receptions for moving and/or retiring pastors, photos of traditional Chris- People who had come to faith in Christ were immediately placed in mon trees or Easter trees/crosses, and any a class meeting, where they were helped to grow in their faith and item over two months old. Color photos are encouraged. Photos returned only if learned how to practice that faith. submitted with a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Photos included on a space George Whitefield, an Anglican preacher who helped spread the available basis. The editor reserves the right to edit all copy or refuse publication. Great Awakening in Britain and the American colonies, even said Letters about this practice: “My Brother Wesley acted wisely, the souls that Letters to the Editor are printed on a space- were awakened under his ministry he joined in class, and thus pre- available basis. Letters should be limited to 150 words for space reasons. The Advocate served the fruits of his labor. This I neglected, and my people are a will not print letters addressing a topic beyond two months of the publication of that issue. rope of sand.” The Advocate editor reserves the right to edit all letters. Now, the Virginia Conference is encouraging clergy and laity to ©2015 Virginia Advocate participate in Discipleship Circles, small groups that offer Connection, USPS 660-740 ISSN 0891-5598 Spirituality and Accountability. Published monthly by Virginia United Meth- odist Communications, Inc., an agency of the Small groups that offer Connection, Spirituality and Accountability Virginia Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. Periodical postage paid at are basic to the heritage of United Methodists. Glen Allen, Va., and at additional mailing of- fices. The Virginia United Methodist Advocate Let’s get back to basics. is owned by Virginia United Methodist Com- munications, Inc.
POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to Virginia United Methodist Advocate, P.O. Box 5606, Glen Allen, VA 23058. Editorial and business offices are located at 10330 Staples Mill Rd., Glen Allen, Va. Office hours are 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
2 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTIONS SPECIAL SECTION
4 Letters & Commentary 11-21 2015 Clergy Appointments
5-6, Virginia News 32-33 FEATURE
7 Equipping for Ministry 22-31 Discipleship Circles
8-10 Imagine No Malaria 34-35 Local Church News NEWS 5 New credit union CEO wants to connect 36-37 Events 6 Common Table pilots ‘Ministry Accelerator’
38-39 Living the Word 8 Staunton D.S. kayaks down river for Imagine No Malaria 40 Clergy & Diaconal 32 New director of Ministries with Young People announced
42 From the Bishop
43 One Last Word
The Virginia Advocate Staff Linda S. Rhodes | Virginia Conference Director of Communications Cathryn Huff | Graphic Designer Pam Culler | Administrative Secretary Board of Directors of Virginia United Methodist Communications, Inc.: Keri Marston, chair. The Virginia United Methodist Advocate uses the services of United Methodist Communications and United Methodist News Ser- Scan this code to go vice. The reporting of news regarding any person or event, or the placement of any advertisement within these to the pages, does not constitute endorsement by the Virginia Advocate or any entity of The United Methodist Church. conference website: Opinions of writers are solely those of the authors and not necessarily those of this publication. www.vaumc.org
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 3 COMMENTARY A message from our person, I was confronted new Advocate with the sheer number of people working towards editor the same goal. fter this issue is printed 2 Corinthians 4:16 Aand resting in your, reminds us: “Therefore we the reader’s, hands, Annual do not lose heart. Though Conference will be wrap- outwardly we are wasting ping up for its final day. away, yet inwardly we are Maybe your mind is already being renewed day by day.” thinking about the week (NIV) ahead or considering the Don’t doubt what one best route you should take person can do, but also to get home. don’t doubt how important But Annual Confer- we all are as one United ence is so important to the Methodist body. Together, United Methodist commu- we love one another, nity, let’s not forget what worship as one body and we’ve gained. challenge each other to As the new editor of continue pursuing our best the Advocate, I’m not new selves in Christ. to The United Methodist I hope if you attended Church, but I am still learn- Annual Conference, in ing a lot about the struc- person or through the live Financing For ture of the conference and webcast, you gained this Church Vehicles the amount of work that sense of renewal. Like a goes into building our com- small seedling, take it and munity over and over again let it grow in your faith through new initiatives and and personal ministry. Let goals. its roots spread to those in So that’s why a time to your local churches and in come together as a whole your daily interactions. at Annual Conference feels Until our next issue, so integral. Together, we make big decisions for our Rates as low as faith, celebrate our clergy and worship together. 1.95% APR* Apart, it is so easy to feel Madeline lost and lose our course. on both new & used vehicles. The importance of (model years 2013 & newer). renewal in your life should not be understated. In any season of our lives, we need time to center our- selves and make sure we are still on the right path. Attending Annual Conference in my first few www.vumcu.org weeks was a great way to 804-672-0200 Letters to the Editor are printed on a solidify my start here by space-available basis. Letters may be *Credit restrictions apply and rates are witnessing so many United e-mailed to [email protected] subject to change. by the first of the month. Methodists in one place. In Federally insured by NCUA
4 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA people are unaware that New credit union CEO wants to connect there is a United Methodist Credit Union for them, and with United Methodists across Virginia he hopes that through his connection efforts more By Madeline Pillow people with big problems Eads is already excited people will find out about that are unique to mem- about new offerings the the credit union and its op- n February, the Virginia bers of The United Method- credit union will have for portunities. United Methodist Credit ist Church, a job that he its members. – Madeline Pillow is editor Union (VUMCU) hired has already found fulfilling. VUMCU now offers a of the Virginia United Methodist I Advocate James (Jim) Eads as new Through helping members, new student loan product Chief Executive Officer. Prior whether they are mission- with a lower rate than to his new position, Eads aries living abroad, clergy standard student loans. was a leader with three or laypersons, Eads wears a If a student is attend- Virginia-based financial number of hats to ensure ing seminary or a United institutions where he used that members get the Methodist-affiliated college his strategic knowledge information and services or university, the rate is and management skills they need. even lower. to improve services for “Every day, working Another new feature is customers. people don’t have a lot of the Reward VISA that gives While Eads enjoyed the places that they can go for members an easy way to work, he felt a pull to serve trusted advice. Being that donate rewards balances the church in a larger way resource has been really every year to their home though he has participated rewarding,” Eads said. church or to other United within various committees When he began, Eads Methodist organizations in his local church over the was not only excited about like Heart Havens, UMCOR years. Born a Presbyterian, sharing his talents but (United Methodist Com- Eads’ wife, Karen, convert- also about continuing the mittee on Relief), or UMFS ed him to Methodism and impactful programs already (United Methodist Family the Eads family has been a in place at VUMCU. One of Services). part of The United Method- these programs is the Ju- Currently, as CEO, Eads ist Church for many years. bilee Assistance Fund (JAF) is driven by a need to con- Eads now jokes about the which seeks to protect nect. Though the Virginia conversion, “I guess I was members from preda- United Methodist Credit Jim Eades is the new CEO of the Vir- predestined to be a Meth- tory lending companies. Union has only one brick ginia United Methodist Credit Union. odist.” Through the program, Eads and mortar location, the As a way to satisfy sees a real connection credit union serves mem- the need to serve, Eads between the community bers all across the state of considered missionary and the church. The loan Virginia, the country and work. But it was when he program allows a confer- even around the globe. applied for the CEO position ence church to provide a Through Eads, VUMCU at VUMCU that he knew loan with a low interest is starting to reach out to he found a way to join to- rate through VUMCU to members through e-mail gether both service and his church members. and social media to share gifts. “I found something “It allows members who their new offerings. that I know about and it’s really need a loan to get Eads also plans to travel exciting,” he said. “It’s neat one with a low rate and around the state to share because I found a way to gives them a real chance new programs with United serve that I thought I’d to pay it down,” he said. Methodist-affiliated col- never find.” “I can’t think of anything leges, clergy members and In his role, Eads knows more Methodist than this groups like Heart Havens. the credit union can help program.” He notes that many
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 5
The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA ministry beyond the local Common Table pilots ‘Ministry Accelerator’ church’,” said Marc Brown, director of Connectional through Special and Sustaining Grants Ministries. Each year the Com- retention, long-range plan- By Christopher Bennett mon Table grants nearly ning and other areas that $100,000 through Special contribute to the impact he Grants Subcom- and Sustaining Grants to and sustainability of a mittee of the Com- local church ministries ministry in addition to their Tmon Table is piloting that are innovative, mis- grant award. a “ministry accelerator” sional (beyond the local This pilot experience as part of its Special and church walls) and making is geared to help grant Sustaining Grants pro- a tangible impact on their recipients become self- cess. Special and Sustain- communities for the gospel sustaining more quickly ing Grants are for local of Jesus Christ. and maximize the impact churches with innovative For more information made in addressing a spe- ministry ideas that reach about Special and Sustain- cific community need or beyond the walls of the ing Grants and the pilot of challenge. local church into their com- the “ministry accelerator,” “We believe this pilot for munities. go to the conference web- The “ministry accelera- the grants process helps site at www.vaumc.org/ tor” pilot will give grant re- us continue to live out CommonTableGrants. cipients, who choose to the Virginia Conference’s — The Rev. Christopher Bennett is participate in the pilot, mission, of ‘equipping local associate pastor of Ebenezer UMC, support in finance/budget- churches for ministry and Stafford, and a member of the ing, volunteer recruitment/ providing a connection for Common Table for Church Vitality
$2$2 October 2014 Imagine No The Virginia United Methodist Malaria Conference gets behind malaria eradication effort
May 2014
$2$2 SUBSCRIBE NOW! Go to www.vaumc.org/advocate or call the Advocate office at: September 2014 $2$2 1-800-768-6040, ext. 110, or (804) 521-1110.
● See who benefits from your OUR stewardship of time and HERITAGE money through The United Methodist Church’s local, national and global mission vitalizing Ch Re August 2014 ildr y en’s Ministr work.
$2$2 ● Gain new ideas for your local church from others’ success stories. ● Stay informed with up-to- date information on issues affecting Virginia United 2014 ANNUAL CONFERENCE: Methodists. Washed in theSpirit 2014-2015 Mission Opportunities guide inside
6 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015
EQUIPPING FOR MINISTRY is all it takes to get started. submitted at least three Rethink Church offers grants However, the applying months prior to an event church will have to have a date, and New Church Start s the next evolu- Grants, visit www.um- website for the advertis- Grants must be submitted tion of the “Open com.org/rethink-church/ ing to point to that has an within one year of a new Ahearts. Open minds. rethink-church-event- inviting and welcoming church being active. Also, a Open doors.” welcoming grants. online presence. Churches church can only be award- and advertising campaign, can apply for a Digital ed one grant of any kind RETHINK CHURCH seeks to New Church Start Advertising Grant by going once per calendar year. redefine the church experi- Grants: These recently re- to https://docs.google. ence beyond the church structured one-time grants com/a/vaumc.org/forms/ doors and invite people to to new church planters d/1W3IVKWtTuE586ADM become engaged in the help support the early VCYbKS0d_kqc430dy3UI- world. The campaign aims development of a new faith jQdzGkY/viewform. For to spark a global conversa- community. With this new more information about tion around the question, grant process, there will Digital Advertising Grants, “What if church were a be no set funds promised go to www.umcom.org/ verb?” (To learn about the and grants are not offered rethink-church/digital- RETHINK CHURCH cam- in any monetary form. advertising-grants. paign, go to www.umcom. However, individual grants All grants are awarded org/rethink-church/learn- could possibly include on a first-come, first-served more-about-rethink- promotional marketing ma- basis. Applications are church.) terials or other support. open year round. Event RETHINK CHURCH offers As a first step, approved Grant applications must be resources to local churches, applicants will take one of including three types of our selected training cours- grant awards for churches es, free of charge. To read that meet the criteria: about training opportuni- ties, go to www.umcom. Rethink Church Event org/learn/online-training. Grants: Media and mar- Each applicant will be keting grants are awarded evaluated on a case-by- to clusters of churches case basis. To get started, (three or more working church planters can apply together), districts and con- at https://docs.google. ferences that hold a one- com/a/vaumc.org/forms/ day service event outside d/154bQWeuy2hK8LA_jJ- the walls of the church. 8e9AAKkJptQipqHno0Yi- These events combine EqRQik/viewform. To church and community learn more about New volunteers to create a sus- Church Start Grants, visit tainable ministry in their www.umcom.org/new- area. Churches interested churchstarts. in this type of grant can complete a quick survey, Digital Advertising which will let them know Grants: This brand-new if they qualify for a grant opportunity is for individu- and at what level. To take al local churches who want the survey, go to https:// to raise awareness of their events.rethinkchurch.org/ church in the community grant-qualification-form. by means of digital adver- To learn more about Event tising. A simple application
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 7 IMAGINE NO MALARIA the 83 churches and one extraordinarily generous, Staunton D.S. views God’s mission community of the on a district in which the Staunton District can be median average worship goodness as he kayaks generous when provoked. attendance is below 65. To Since I used to kayak date, gifts have surpassed down river to raise funds (before superintendency!), $15,000, and more are pad- it seemed natural that dling their way in. for Imagine No Malaria I might float my way to As for the trip itself, I inspire others. As I talked recruited old friend and the idea over with Beth fellow kayaker Troy Rapp By Dave Rochford Christian, district director of and his sweetheart, Jen- nspired by Richmond Congregational Resources, nifer Krstolic, to partner District Superintendent it occurred to us that the with me. Jennifer is a USGS ISteve Jones, who ran in concept was obvious: buy hydrologist, which I knew the Chicago marathon to nets, save lives and “send could prove helpful since inspire his district to raise the DS down the river.” she could tell us all the money for Imagine No As gifts rolled in, and places we were about to Malaria, I wondered what I still are rolling in, Beth drown. might do. I do run, but only keeps asking “Wow, what We launched on the when pursued and even did you do to this church?” Bullpasture River from a then not for very long. Evidently, a great many rocky shoal in Williams- Staunton District Superintendent Ted Smith and Alex Joyner United Methodists wanted ville, Bath County, under Dave Rochford and a cardboard cut- played basketball, but my to be certain I went down cloudless skies at 2 p.m. out of Bishop Young Jin Cho prepare jump shot…isn’t. Still, I was to launch a kayak for a trip down the the river. And, indeed, Wednesday, May 13. river to raise funds for Imagine No convinced that I could do some of our smaller Nick Ruxton, conference Malaria. something, because I knew churches have been videographer, drove all the way out to see us off, and he even brought one of our Imagine No Malaria portabishops. Evidently, I dressed “the Bishop” up too realistically, as Face- book commenters have been moved that he came all the way out to paddle the first day with us. Just south of the Will- liamsville bridge is a mildly “technical” stretch, a rock garden. After that, it was choppy water and pleasant riffles past rolling farmlands and occasional limestone cliffs. Shortly we entered the broader waters of the Cowpasture, and almost immediately were joined by an eagle that seemed determined to stay put until we were right below it, then to fly only a short distance downstream. This
8 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 IMAGINE NO MALARIA was repeated perhaps 30 times, which was quite remarkable. I had in mind the Native American motif of a Guardian Spirit to guide your journey, which was more exciting than my later revelation: he was waiting for us to flush fish out of the channel and into the shoals. Eagles know what they’re doing. Close to 8 p.m. and 14.5 miles in, we stopped below a high, eroded limestone cliff, pockmarked with caves that only altitude and fatigue prevented me from exploring. Well, that and bears. Our first camp consisted of a tent (theirs) and hammock (mine) in a small, pine-forest clear- day — and no one at all on 20 miles on Day 2, our Dave Rochford, right, and Jennifer ing. Although only a few the river, as we were. progress hampered by five Krstolic, left, during their kayak brilliant stars could be That said, we cer- low-water farm bridges trip to raise money for Imagine No Malaria. seen through a hole in tainly saw its permanent that necessitated portag- the fir canopy, less than a residents: red-shouldered ing our boats and gear. minute after I lay down I blackbirds, several species The real gem was waiting saw a vivid streak across of heron, red-tailed hawks, at Millboro Springs, one that very spot — a meteor a variety of ducks and of very few hamlets right I sure wouldn’t have seen geese — many supervising on the Cowpasture. There, from the district parsonage. their young, churning along a century-old, eight-foot I made up my mind right between them — and the spillway waits to devour then to tell everybody from aforementioned eagle. We unwary paddlers — with no here on out how great God also saw a weasel, badger warning save a glassy hori- is, all the time. and countless deer. zon and mounting roar. We The Cowpasture is one A couple of miles below scouted both banks before of the major headwaters the I-64 bridge, in a mead- finding a truly ghastly pas- of the James River, which ow beside an abandoned sage through a swampy itself drains nearly a third farmhouse, we saw a large glen, over brush and lawn- of the Commonwealth. bobcat. They are common trimming piles, across a Perhaps because of the in the George Washington high-grass meadow and fi- remoteness of the Cow- National Forest but very nally down a steep, muddy pasture, and the relatively seldom seen. I have always bank. All told, we spent few put-ins and take-outs been told “they see you, the better part of an hour, it offers anywhere above alright - but you’ll never and the boats somehow Clifton Forge, it is a remark- see a bobcat.” Well, this got heavier than their 70 to ably unspoiled and little- fellow’s tradecraft must 130 pounds as the cross- travelled river. Except for a be subpar, because I had ing wore on. There may be few people fishing from the him in full profile, dead to reasons we saw no other shore on the Bullpasture, rights. through-paddlers on the we saw barely anyone all We made just under Cowpasture!
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 9 IMAGINE NO MALARIA At Camp 2, just below region toward Roanoke. going to be enough. When historic Nimrod Hall, we de- Just after the first it seemed bleak, we saw a ployed in a small hardwood railroad bridge, we encoun- man painting the front of a forest and at nightfall were tered the most formidable small river-camp structure serenaded by a whippoor- “technical challenge” of on the south bank. “How will. This led me to forget the trip — a double drop far is it to the Route 220 the pile of bear scat we with a rock garden packed bridge?” we asked. “Pretty came across on the edge into the narrow bal- far,” he replied. “A good 30 of camp, and to recall cony between. Two of us minutes, and impossible that as a child I fell asleep wedged at the precipice. to do in the dark.” Then, a every summer night to the But some grinding twists, way out of our dilemma: call of the whippoorwill. I a few thumps and lasting “you can pull your boats had not heard one for 30 scratches later, we made it out right here. I have a light years, at least. Around 2 beyond and kept paddling. I can turn on so you can a.m., I awoke to the song, It was a long slog, and load them up.” and didn’t begrudge it the it had us crossing beneath Relieved, but inwardly least bit. Plus, it wasn’t a the I-64 bridge after 6 p.m., chagrined to be quitting bear. (There were jokes a bit late. I made us even shy of my promise to “get about my hammock being later when I swamped my the DS down the river and a taco.) boat directly underneath off the district,” I helped Day 3 we crossed from the Rt. 60 bridge. After get- beach the boats and called the verdant, rolling mead- ting past all those hydraulic Rev. Lester Kennedy at Iron ows and smooth limestone nasties, dodging islands, Gate, who turned out to bluffs of Bath County into driftwood strainers, cows be just one mile away. I the drier, pine-dotted shale and even a John Deere had another, even better cliffs of upper Alleghany tractor, I finally bathtubbed surprise when I asked our County. No less beautiful, it in 16 inches of water. Good Samaritan where his certainly, but profoundly Keeps one humble. farm was located. “Well, for different. The day was a While God’s remarkable a long time nobody knew bit overcast but still very providence and abundant and it seemed like no- temperate, and the white- grace had been apparent body cared,” he said. “But At the end of his first day of kayak- water picked up as if on throughout, our Lord saved long about 20 years ago, ing down the river, Staunton District command as our declina- the best for last. The delay Botetourt County claimed Superintendent Dave Rochford makes camp and gets some rest in tion increased, character- at the bridge put us at us. The line is right through his hammock in a small, pine-forest izing the larger drop in the the break-point between here, somewhere.” clearing. ‘Ridge and Valley’ geologic pushing to finish before So, after more than 65 dark and seeking a camp miles on the water, we site. Opting for safety, we were provided safe pas- hunted for a site and ex- sage up a bank, across plored two prospects, nei- the border and “off the ther of which would work district.” God’s sense of (being strewn with detritus humor? “You do your part, and poison ivy). Night was and I will take care of the falling swiftly now, and we rest. When haven’t I?” God knew that several rapids is good — around every were ahead, including bend, in the rough patches the weird cross-currents and on the far and prom- at the confluence of the ised shore. Amen? Cowpasture and Jackson – The Rev. David Rochford is Rivers (the inception of the Staunton District superintendent mighty James). Hard paddling was not
10 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 Appointments CLERGY KEY Sydenstricker: James D. Thomas (5) ALEXANDRIA DISTRICT Associate: Kathy B. Gochenour (2) Listings in italics are charge District Superintendent: Jeffrey P. Mickle (2) Washington Farm: Philip M. Waltz (3) names with pastor and churches on the ALEXANDRIA charge listed below the italicized listing. Wesley: Lydia E. Rodriguez Colon (2) Beverley Hills: Sara L. Manner (22) Designations in bold print indicate the Woodlawn-Faith: Lyle E. Morton (7) Del Ray: Marable F. Southall-Vess (1) first year of appointment. The number FAUQUIER COUNTY Fairlington: Mary Beth Blinn (1) in parentheses ( ) indicates the year of Bethel: Julian H. Martin Jr. (16) current appointment. Ministers other than Associate: Devon M. Earle (1) PE Orlean: James A. Leamon (12) PL Elder in Full Connection (FE) in the Virginia Min. of Congregational Family Life: Christian Warrenton: Michael L. Whaley (1) Conference are indicated by the following S. White Jr. (5) FD Associate: Jiyeon Kim (2) PE symbols listed after years served: Roberts Memorial: James G. Daniely (1) Wesley Chapel: Jose W. Saldana (3) PL AF Affiliate Member Saint Andrew’s: Kitan Petreski (10) MANASSAS CITY AM Associate Member Saint James: James E. Henry (24) Grace: Rudolph E. Tucker (15) DM Diaconal Minister Trinity: William A. Davis Jr. (1) DR Retired Diaconal Minister Associate: Janet P. Salbert (2) Washington Street: Thomas G. James (1) EP Minister Recog. from other Denom. Min. of Music: C. Milton Rodgers III (15) FD FAIRFAX Serving UM Probation Saint Thomas: David T. Forrest (6) Fairfax: David J. Bonney (1) FD Deacon in Full Connection Saint Thomas Haymarket: Edward H. Associate: Amy E. Grant (1) PE FL Full-time Local Pastor Johnson Jr. (2) FAIRFAX COUNTY LM Certified Lay Minister (Assigned by PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY Accotink-Cana: Joo Sup Park (2) OE district superintendent) Asbury: Charles M. Stribula (3) PE Aldersgate: Dennis W. Perry (14) MOD Minister, Other Denom., Bethel: Joseph A. Shoop (3) Associate: Heather M.H. ‘Hedy’ Collver (2) OE Serving Ecumenical Parish Buckhall: Linda H. Monroe (5) Aldersgate Kingstowne: Michelle L. Matthews OA Associate Member, Cokesbury: Clyde T. Nelson (3) (1) PE Other Annual Conf. Dumfries: Dale E. Gillis (3) Annandale: Clarence R. Brown (8) OD Deacon Member, Other Annual Conf. Gainesville: John E. Patterson (19) or Other Denomination Associate: Eduardo A. Carrillo (6) FL Associate: Sean D. Gundry (1) FL OE Elder Member, Other Annual Conf. or Associate for Adult Discipleship: Cynthia D. Ghana Wesley UM Mission: Emmanuel Methodist Denom. Johnson-Oliver (8) OE Nkrumah (6) PE OF Full Member, Other Denom. Burke: Lawrence W. Buxton (9) Associate: John Obeng (2) PL OP Provisional Member, On Loan Associate: Deborah D. Porras (2) Good Shepherd: R. Levi Stroud Jr. (13) OR Retired FE, Other Conference Cameron: Oliver J. Box (3) Associate: Minoo W. Kim (1) FL PD Provisional Deacon Christ: John C. Speight Jr. (24) Nokesville: James L. Johnson III (3) PE Provisional Elder Associate: Monica T. Reynolds (3) PL Old Bridge: Burton C. Robinson (12) PL Part-time Local Pastor Cranford: Lorenzo D. Hill (11) Associate: Ronald T. Lanman (7) RL PM Probationary Member, ’92 Disc. Franconia: Catharine T. Guest (4) Prince of Peace: Larry Jent (1) RA Retired Associate Member Lincolnia: Raymond A. Max-Jones (2) OE RAF Retired Affiliate Member Saint Mark’s: Kurt D. Ludwig (3) PL Messiah: Reginald D. Tuck (2) RD Retired Deacon Saint Paul: Larry E. Craddock (4) Associate: Meghan Roth Clayton (4) RE Retired Elder Spirit & Life Planter, New Site: Matthew A. Associate for Hispanic Ministries: Luz M. RL Retired Local Pastor Meisenhelter (1) Zuleta (1) PL ROF Retired, Other Denomination Spirit & Life Montclair: Matthew J. Benton (1) Mount Vernon: Paulo C. Da Silva (1) ROM Retired, Other Methodist Sudley: Hyo Joong Lee (1) RP Retired Probationary/Provisional New Light: Samuel Eunkwan Kim (1) OE Member Rising Hope: Keary C. Kincannon (21) Saint George’s: Steven B. Wells (3) ARLINGTON DISTRICT SY Lay Supply (Assigned by dist. supt.) District Superintendent: Catherine G. Abbott (3) Saint John’s: Paula P. Werner (3) TBS To Be Supplied ARLINGTON Saint Matthew’s: Neil R. Hough (2) Arlington Forest: L. Michael Southall-Vess (9) Associate: Grace S. Han (2) PE Arlington Temple: Alison Rosner Bass (3) Associate of Senior Adults Min. & Visitation: ROLL OF THE FIRST MILE Calloway: Chenda I. Lee (2) PE Church names in red represent congregations that William E. Moberly (3) PL Calvary: Matthew G. Smith (2) paid 100 percent of their conference and district Saint Stephen’s: A. Mark Mrini (1) Central: Sarah Harrison-McQueen (2) apportionments last year. Churches in blue paid Associate: Abigail E. Foerster (3) Cherrydale: Elizabeth A. Foss (5) 101 percent or more. Those in green represent a Associate: Drew VanDyke Colby (3) PE Clarendon: Tracy McNeil Wines (2) 10% increase in apportionments paid from the Silverbrook: M. Garey Eakes (2) Community: R. Carl Ripley Jr. (24) prior year. Springfield: Jeffry J. Roberts (4) Associate: Martha C. Ringenbach (3) PL
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 11 First Vietnamese-American of Greater Wash.: LOUDOUN COUNTY GREENE COUNTY Hieu D. Phan (3) OP Arcola: Christopher E. Riedel (21) Greene: Christopher S. Fuss (1) FL Mount Olivet: Edward R. Walker (3) Associate: Richard B. Dawson (3) RL Mt. Vernon, South River Associate: Kathleen R. Royston (2) PE Ashburn Korean: Hyunsik Kang (3) OE Stanardsville: Charles S. Winner (4) Associate: Jeffrey H. Goodman (4) PL Crossroads: David A. Norman (27) Westover: Norma J. Dean (12) PL Saint Mark’s: Michelle M. Kim (3) Minister of Congregational Nurture: Jean M. LOUISA COUNTY Walker Chapel: Mark A. Burgess (1) Hankins (7) FD Louisa: David R. Palmer (4) FAIRFAX COUNTY Galilee: Jason B. Duley (2) Macedonia: Stephen M. Hall (3) FL Andrew Chapel: Scott D. Hopkins (4) Associate: Matthew B. Sergent (9) PE Mineral-Mt. Pleasant: Erin Geoffrion (1) FL Bruen Chapel: Ruth M. Burgess (8) Pleasant Valley: Justin S. White (7) Mineral, Mt. Pleasant Centreville: Alan R. Felumlee (10) Associate: Sean C. Devolites (1) FL West Louisa: Judy J. DeBres (2) OF Associate: Jennifer D. Coffey (6) Sterling: Stephen T. Vineyard (1) Ebenezer, Lasley, Mt. Horeb Associate: Kevin D. Havens (1) FL Associate: Marcela M. Jarman (2) PL Zion: David C. Lagerveld (3) Charles Wesley: Livingston S. Dore (2) MADISON COUNTY Chesterbrook: R. Eugene Larkin (5) RE CHARLOTTESVILLE DISTRICT Bethel-Mountain View: James F. Lacy (5) PL Church of the Good Shepherd: Michael D. District Superintendent: Danny J. Kesner (3) Bethel, Mountain View Copeland (1) ALBEMARLE COUNTY Madison: Elizabeth G. Caudill (2) Community of Faith: Robert E. Vaughn Jr. (18) Aldersgate: Scott E. Davis (6) Madison, Rose Park Culmore: Jung Pyo Hong (10) Batesville: Elizabeth A. Buxton (4) FL North Madison: David A. LeFon (3.5) Dranesville: William E. Heinzman (4) Batesville, Bethel, Mt. Olivet Etlan, Mt. Olivet, Oak Grove Epiphany: Robert B. Lloyd Jr. (4) Binghams: William R. Payne (13) PL Rapidan: Alan R. Follett (8) FL First Korean: Sung Ho Chung (12) OE Crozet: James H. Chandler (2) Bethsaida, Mt. Zion, Walkers Floris: Thomas M. Berlin (19) Pastor of Family Ministries: Jessica L. Fuller NELSON COUNTY Associate: Barbara Miner (10) FL (5.5) FD Bethany (Norwood): James D. Siddons (5) RE Associate: Timothy L. Ward (7) PE Ivy Creek: James W. Thornton Sr. (9) Bethlehem: Edwin M. Childress (4) FL Associate: Ashley B. Allen (3) PE Congregational Care and Ministry Nelson: Debra A. Powell (10) Associate: Nadeem Khokhar (2) FL Development: Evelyn Y. Jones (5) LM New Faith: Gregory Payne (10) LM Friendship: Edgar Miranda (1) Mount Moriah: John C. Ward Jr. (3) Rock Spring: Pamela J. Baldwin (6) FL Graham Road: James D. Canody (1) Restoration: Marc W. Rickabaugh (3) Rodes: Lowell D. Petry (2) FL Great Falls: Denise M. Childers (3) Southern Albemarle: Bruce N. Lugn (5) PE ORANGE COUNTY Herndon: Gary L. Robbins (3) Mt. Zion, Scottsville Gordonsville: Charles W. Townsend (1) Korean of Greater Washington: Young Bong Trinity (N. Garden): Timothy L. Worley (1) PL Barboursville, Gordonsville Kim (11) West Albemarle: Benjamin F. Houchens (16) PL Orange Circuit: Peter Geoffrion (1) FL Associate: Keon Huh (5) PE Browns Cove, Gentry Bethlehem, Salem Associate: David Ryu (4) FL AMHERST COUNTY Trinity: Craig C. Newman (1) Associate: Eugene Kim (3) Bethany-Sardis: Shin Woo Hong (6) RAPPAHANNOCK COUNTY Associate: Kookjin Yun (3) OE Bethany, Sardis Amissville: Maxine C. Crenshaw (5) Associate: Chang Hwan Lee (1) OE Mount Pleasant: Judy G. Morris (7) FL Rappahannock: Sara Porter Keeling (5) Associate: Hung Su Lim (1) Mt. Horeb, Mt. Pleasant, Poplar Flint Hill, Sperryville, Willis Chapel Associate: Daniel D. Park (1) OE Wesleyan: Adam J. White (1) Minister of Young Adults: Eoi Kyung CHARLOTTESVILLE Hwang (3) FD DANVILLE DISTRICT First: Alvin J. Horton (7) District Superintendent: Janine W. Howard (5) Oakton: Dawn-Marie Singleton (4) Hinton Avenue: Robert D. Lewis (4) DANVILLE Pender: Kenneth W. Newsome (15) Wesley Memorial: Janice M. Rivero (1) Fairview: Kathleen M.R. Monge (6) Associate: Daniel E. Elmore (1) CULPEPER COUNTY Grace Design: Jay Summerlin (1) SY Saint Luke’s: Aslam Barkat (2) OR Culpeper: J. Randall Orndorff (12) Moseley Memorial-Stokesland Cooperative Sleepy Hollow: Pamela Clark Egan (13) Associate: Norma Jean Fellows (7.5) OR Parish: Elizabeth A. Nordan (2) PL Associate: Jennifer L. Ailstock (11) PL Associate: Jessica Squires Colwell (3) Moseley Memorial, Stokesland Smith Chapel: David J. Zuchelli (21) East Culpeper: Stanley H. Mulford III (7) PE Mount Vernon: Barry S. Foster (8) Trinity: James C. Sprouse (19) Hopewell, Richardsville St. Luke’s: (1) Associate: Eileen F. Gilmer (3) FL Susan M. Hannah Little Fork Circuit: Kang Uk Lee (2) Trinity: Charles W. Wickham (13) Associate: Ki Cheon Lee (1) Jeffersonton, Oak Shade, Woodland United Christian Parish: Joan L. Bell-Haynes FLOYD COUNTY FLUVANNA COUNTY Harris Chapel: Marcus C. Wood (9) PL (11) MOD Byrd Chapel: Neil W. McLaughlin (2) FL Vale: Jeffrey J. Haugh (2) FRANKLIN COUNTY Cunningham: Thomas E. Frost (7) Bethlehem: D. Chris Bennett (7) FL The Vine: D. Todd Schlechty (7) Haden Chapel: George E. Gorman (3) AM Wesley: Ray S. Brill Jr. (11) East Franklin: Judith E. Short (15) Palmyra: George E. Gorman (3) AM Crafts, Penhook Associate: Young Sung Ryu (1) OE Salem: Andrew B. Willson (5) FALLS CHURCH Epworth: Joshua D. Munnikhuysen (10) FL South Fluvanna: Gregory E. Miller (4) PL Fork Mountain: Lynn Bechdolt (1) OF Christ Crossman: M. Mochel Morris (15) New Bethel, Seays Chapel, Wesley Chapel Dulin: M. Davies Kirkland (16) Franklin: Douglas R. Sasser Jr. (4) Galloway: James E. Page Jr. (2) FL Burnt Chimney, Flint Hill
12 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 Gogginsville: Kathryn C. Budzik (2) FL Oakland: Jon M. Woodburn (3) FL NORTHAMPTON COUNTY Callaway Cooperative Parish: Amy E. Pannell (1) Swansonville: Linwood G. Cook (5) RE Cape Charles-Capeville: Elizabeth A. Lutz (7) Highland, New Hope Watson Memorial (Chatham): William Capeville, Trinity Oyler’s Chapel- Rehoboth Cooperative Parish: Mackey-Wisor (2) OE Cheriton: Janet C. Allen (2) FL Richard L. Barton (5) Wesley Chapel-Rock Springs: Steven W. Cheriton, Travis Chapel Oyler’s Chapel, Rehoboth Weedling (3) PE Epworth (Exmore): Mikang Kim (3) PE Pleasant Hill: Gustavo A. Segovia (2) FL Rock Springs, Wesley Chapel Franktown: Judith G. Worthington (2) Red Valley: Joshua S. King (5) PE Whitmell-St. John’s Cooperative Parish: Johnsons: Clarence W. Bowen Jr. (17) RE Redwood: Bradley S. Dulaney (7) Wayne C. Moore (1) New Mission: Harold E. White (11) FL Minister of Community Outreach: Susan Saint John’s, Whitmell M. Hughes (3) PD ELIZABETH RIVER DISTRICT Rocky Mount: Bruce D. Tuttle (5) RE EASTERN SHORE DISTRICT District Superintendent: M. Wayne Snead (2) Dir. of Music MInistries/Organist: Lynn District Superintendent: Alexander B. Joyner (2) CHESAPEAKE Meeks (20) DM ACCOMACK COUNTY Chesapeake Avenue: Janice P. Commander (1) St. James (Ferrum): Mary S. White (8) RE Accomack Cooperative Parish: William A. Covenant: Franklin T. Jennings (15) West Franklin: BaeSick ‘Peter’ Choi (3) Greer (1) FL Deep Creek: Michael W. Plasters (3) Bethany, Maple Grove Drummondtown, Metropolitan Good Hope: Mark E. Christian (19) HENRY COUNTY Adams-Bloxom Mission Cooperative Parish: Great Bridge: Timothy P. Craig (3) Anderson Chapel-Granbery: Timothy V. Gregory L. Duncan (1) PL Associate: Amanda S. Webber (2) PE Satterfield (2) FL Adams, Bloxom Mission Hickory: Thomas L. Mercer Sr. (27) Anderson Chapel, Granbery Atlantic-New Church: Arum Kim (1) FL Indiana: Frances C. Craig (7) PL Axton: Anne M. Sisson (8) FL Atlantic, Berea Jolliff: Waverly C. Smith III (12) FL Beckham, Carroll Memorial, Irisburg Belle Haven-Bethel: Paul Donghwan Oh (2) FL Assistant to Pastor: James W. Jones (2) LM Bassett Memorial: E. Russell Gresham IV (4) Belle Haven, Bethel Messiah: Ellen W. Comstock (6) Fieldale: Thomas E. Durrance (6) PE Calvary: TBS Mount Pleasant: Robert M. Pihlcrantz (10) FL Mount Bethel: Anthony C. Budzik (1) FL Cashville: JoLynn B. Hart (3) FL New Creation: C. Randolph Duncan (1) Pleasant Grove: Ian J. Hackmann (4) PE Andrew Chapel, Leatherbury, Riverview Associate: Stephanie L. Kimec (3) PE Ridgeway: James L. Wilson (2) OR Christ (Chincoteague): Travis L. DeLoach (15) Oak Grove: H. Frank Holley (4) Smith Memorial: Kameron M. Wilds (1) PE Craddockville: Robert I. Kelly (4) FL Oaklette: Timothy D. Hazlett (5) Stanleytown: David A. Westmoreland (2) FL Grace (Parksley): Donald A. Jamison (5) Portlock: Robert G. Robinson (10) MARTINSVILLE Greenbackville: Derek E. Tomek (6) FL Saint Paul’s: Sandra Benton Plasters (1) Chatham Heights: Marshall L. Banks (5) PL Signpost, Union CURRITUCK COUNTY, NC First: Keith E. Ritchie (4) Guilford: Hyeon Ho Lee (1) Knotts Island: Diana L. Johnson (4) PL Wesley Memorial: Timothy W. Gearheart (1) FL Guilford, St. Thomas NORFOLK PATRICK COUNTY Hallwood: James R. Maddox (4) RE Aldersgate: Walton C. Forstall II (6) East Patrick: W. Mark Clayton (12) FL Horntown: Barbara A. Cousar (4) FL Christ: Derrek P. Koolman (4) Concord, Nettle Ridge Deas Chapel, Friendship, St. Mark’s Epworth: Luis E. Alderman (2) Fellowship: Monte Mitchell (4) MOD Market Street: J. Barton Weakley (2) Fairmount Park: Linda S. Young (5) PL Meadow: Mark R. Collins (6) PL Melfa: Glenda T. Turlington (5) PL First: Michael A. Eisenman (2) Mountain View: Terry F. Martin (11) PL New Hope: Barbara L. Parker (3) FL Ghent: Melody P. Tanner (1) North Patrick: Sandra L. Wright (6) FL Evergreen, Harborton, Mears Memorial Ignite: Brandon P. Robbins (2) Ross Harbour, Woolwine Oak Grove: Robert E. Green (3) RL Larchmont: Scott M. Rimer (9) Associate: Sarah R. Wastella (6) PE Providence: Keith L. Vernon (2) FL Oak Hall: Donald L. Blagg (6) FL McKendree: Michelle D. Louk (11) PE Salem: John B. Franklin (4) FL Assawoman, Downings Miles Memorial: John B. Haynes Sr. (6) Stuart: Thomas B. Shepherd (9) Ocean View: Sallye H. Bowen (11) RE Norfolk: Sherry L. Daniels (10) West Patrick: Tammy P. Franklin (3) PL Onley: Charles W. Parks III (16) AM Associate: Carolyn J. Graves (5) PL Creasey’s Chapel, New Hope Painter-Quinby: Steve B. Doan (2) ROF Norview: W. Joseph Shepherd (13) RE PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY Donna J. Doan (2) ROF Park Place: Stephen B. Wall-Smith (5) OE Bethel-Cascade: Amanda Barbour-Johnston Painter-Garrisons, Smiths Chapel Saint John’s: Christa M. Springstead (1) PE (2) SY Pittsville-Pocomoke-Wattsville: W. Maury Wesley Mem.-Zion-Grace: Scott A. Beck (4) PE Bethel, Cascade Enright (2) RL Wesley Memorial, Zion-Grace Brosville: Faith M. Weedling (5) Pittsville, Pocomoke, Wattsville PORTSMOUTH Calvary-Kerns Mem.: Ralph K. Hawkins (3) PE Saint John’s (Atlantic): Gary C. Miller (29) AM Broad Street: Frederick C. Brockhausen III (1) FL Calvary, Kerns Memorial Sanford-Saxis: William C. Jefferson (5) PL Centenary: John W. Cole II (2) Concord-Mt. Pleasant Cooperative Parish: Sanford, Saxis Community-St. Mark: R. Kirk Culpepper (14) FL Tobias Lutz (1) FL Snead Memorial (Wachapreague): James S. Community, Saint Mark Concord, Mount Pleasant Nock (10) PL Cottage Place: Daniel P. Abbott (2) RE Floral Hills: Winston L. Crichlow (3) RE Swain Memorial (Tangier): John E. Flood Sr. Monumental: Joseph J. Cailles (5) Harmony: Robert F. Hardy IV (16) FL (3) FL Park View: Roderick L. Clayton (2) PL Hopewell: Timothy J. Barth (2) PL Woodberry: Albert L. Crockett (6) RA Mount Olivet: Jimmy D. Calhoun (2) OF Saint Andrew’s: Jae Woo Park (2) OE
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 13 West End: Lynda D. Moore (4) Prospect: Kenneth L. Thrasher (9) FL Providence-Trinity: Jody R. Jessup (1) OR SUFFOLK South Brunswick: Randall S. Williams (1) FL Providence, Trinity (South Hill) Beech Grove: Keith D. Moore (6) Olive Branch, Rock Rehoboth: Ralph ‘Red’ L. Moore (3) LM Ebenezer: Carl J. LeMon (23) West Brunswick: Jennifer L. Fletcher (4) PE Sardis: Linda K. Betit-Buck (1) SY Associate: Brent M. Seusy (10) Bethel, Macedonia South Hill: Brian D. Siegle (1) Virginia Korean: Stephen Kwang-hoon Lee (3) BUCKINGHAM COUNTY Union Chapel: John E. Conner (3) RE English Pastor: Bonnie J. Whitehurst (2) SY Buckingham: Rebecca L. Trovalli-Cook (2) FL West Mecklenburg: Randal L. Baisey (9) PL Wesley Chapel: Brandon T. Nichols (1) PE Browns Chapel, Hanes Chapel, Rocky Mt. Ephesus, Fields, Friendship VIRGINIA BEACH Dillwyn: Billy E. Swan (9) FL NOTTOWAY COUNTY Baylake: Clark D. Cundiff (1) Bethel, Salem, White Hall Burkeville: Lisa S. Meyers (2) FL Associate: Deborah S. Clark (9) FL James River: Betty D. Marshall (1.5) RL Bethel, Wards Chapel Bethel: Barbara J. St. Jean (2) PL Arvonia, Centenary, Glenmore Crenshaw: H. Celeste Heath (1) Charity: Robert J. Robertson III (6) West Buckingham: Donald L. Collins (2) RA Crewe: Christina M.H. Perkins (2) Community: H. Leroy Seibert (5) Mt. Tabor, Trinity, Woodland East Nottoway: J. Randall Kiel (2) PE Associate: Brian T. Boettcher (1) FL CHARLOTTE COUNTY Butterwood, Grace, Rocky Hill Courthouse Community: J. Randall McMillen (4) Charlotte: Justin A. Hicks (1) FL Nottoway: John B. Covington (20) PL Foundry: Patricia A. Riggs (7) Charlotte C.H., Hebron, Lebanon, Mt. Calvary Bethel, St. John’s Francis Asbury: Edward S. Martin Jr. (7) Keysville: Loretta A. Benninghove (4) Nottoway-Lunenburg: Michael A. Johnson (3) FL Haygood: Tammy L. Estep (2) Mt. Carmel-Phenix: Michael W. Teixeira (13) FL Laurel Hill, St. Mark’s, Thrifts Chapel Associate: Patricia S. Money (2) PE Mt. Carmel, Phenix PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY Heritage: Alexander Duncan Jr. (2) FL New Hope-Southall Memorial: Allan T. Farmville: Michael P. Kendall (3) Lynnhaven: Ronald K. Morris (3) Murphy (5) FL Min. of Discipleship (w/Youth Emphasis): Memorial: Larry J. Edmonds (2) New Hope, Southall Memorial Lyndsie N.K. Blakely (4) FD Nimmo: Brandon L. Gilmore (1) CUMBERLAND COUNTY Meherrin: Larry A. Lehman (4) PL Princess Anne Plaza-Resurrection: Angelito Antioch: Richard L. Meiser Jr. (2) Prince Edward: Nona F. Allen (4) FL G. Samson (16) Cumberland: G. Michael Huffman (1) FL Beulah, Mt. Harmony, Mt. Pleasant Princess Anne Plaza, Resurrection Centenary, Hobsons Chapel, Payne Mem. Prospect: George K. Schaefer (3) PL Saint Andrew’s: S. Wayne Rickman (3) Oakwood: Giani Manieri (2) PE Olive Branch, Prospect, Smyrna Saint Luke’s: David L. Cunningham (6) Thomas Chapel: Richard L. Bucher (10) PL Salem: William L. McClung Jr. (3) HALIFAX COUNTY FREDERICKSBURG DISTRICT Sandbridge Community Chapel: Clyde M. Cherry Hill: Patricia L. Neilsen (3) RL District Superintendent: Theodore Smith (5) DeLoach (4) East Halifax: Kerry L. Halbert (2) OF CAROLINE COUNTY Scott Memorial: Vickie R. Seibert (5) Clover, Scottsburg Bethel: Ellen Heatwole (6) FL Tabernacle: Jack E. Davis (20) Glenwood: TBS Bowling Green: Ralph Harris Jr. (1) Thalia: David A. Goodpasture (6) Glenwood, Olive Branch Bowling Green, Shiloh Minister of Senior Adults: Joan B. Averette Halifax: Kenneth T. Decker Jr. (1) FL Caroline: Mark A. Lawrence (3) PL (8) LM Main Street: Edward F. Rigg (10) Mt. Vernon, St. Paul’s The Gathering: Rachel M. Gilmore (7) McCanless Memorial: Joe D. Trickey Jr. (3) PL Hopewell: Lou Woolner (8) PL Virginia Beach: Ralph W. Rowley (2) McKendree-Asbury: James F. Brown (2) FL Rehoboth: Christopher Watson (1) FL Associate: J. Benson McGlone (2) PE Asbury, McKendree Wrights Chapel: Charles Tillapaugh (24) Mount Cana: A. Randolph Holmes (11) FL ESSEX COUNTY FARMVILLE DISTRICT Mount Laurel: Don R. Pizzeck (14) Essex-King & Queen: George M. Warner Sr. (1) District Superintendent: Robert J. Parks Jr. (5) Shady Grove: Shayne V. Estes (1) Lebanon, Providence, Trinity AMELIA COUNTY Tappahannock Memorial: Carla Stearns (4) Amelia: Dan E. Walker (3) PL South Halifax: Bonnie G. Pizzeck (5) PL Cedar Grove, Harmony FAUQUIER COUNTY Latino Ministry Associate (Trinity): Raciel Union: S. Tony Johnson (2.5) SY Cedar Run: J. Stephen Little Jr. (5) FL Q. Fernandez (1) PL LUNENBURG COUNTY Trinity, Wesleyan Tabernacle, Trinity Grace (Hartwood): Brenda Lee Pusso (6) Journey: Michael T. Davis (5) AM Kenbridge: Timothy A. Beck (8) Lunenburg: C. Alan Layman (4) PE Liberty: Barbara H. Jamieson (3) PL North Amelia: June C. Carpenter (5) PE Midland: Barbara H. Jamieson (3) PL Epworth, Jetersville, Salem Antioch, Williams Plantersville: Ralph ‘Red’ L. Moore (12) LM Morrisville: Elizabeth S. Glass (2) OE APPOMATTOX COUNTY Mount Horeb: Gayle D. Porias (6) Memorial: Russell M. Cheatham (6) Victoria: Kyungsuk Cho (4) MECKLENBURG COUNTY Remington: Walter W. Westbrook (4) Pamplin: Herndon P. Jeffreys III (5) FREDERICKSBURG Centenary, Evergreen, Pamplin, Piney Rdg. Boydton: Sandra A. McMillen (2) Boydton, Easters Fredericksburg: Brenda J. Biler (3) BRUNSWICK COUNTY Centenary (Chase City): Marsha L. Davis (3) FL Associate: Won Gyu Lee (4) Brodnax: Co-Pastor, Paul A. Beighley (4) RE Jamieson Memorial: John A. Bright (3) Pastor of Congreg. Care: TBS Co-Pastor: Pamela G. Pickard (2) PL LaCrosse: Jerry B. Malone (1) SY Hillcrest: Justin L. Williams (6) FL Bethany, Brodnax KING AND QUEEN COUNTY Lawrenceville: John R. Jones Sr. (4) Lakeland: Michael G. Day (7) FL Kingswood, Rehoboth Mizpah: Betty Jo Sims (10) PL North Brunswick: Benjamin H. Taylor III (3.5) PL Shepherds: Debra A. Straughter (2) PL Antioch, Lebanon North Mecklenburg: R. Kent Wise (9) Salem, Shiloh, Zion 14 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 KING GEORGE COUNTY Mount Crawford: Russell L. Heinrich (4) PE Dahlgren: Thomas G. Lee Sr. (1) HARRISONBURG DISTRICT Mt. Crawford, Mt. Sidney District Superintendent: Ernest T. ‘Tommy’ Fletchers Chapel: Michael B. Reaves (4) Mount Horeb: Isaac E. Harper (11) PL Herndon Jr. (6) Trinity: Susan M. Reaves (4) Mount Tabor: Kay Barstow Gentry (2) AUGUSTA COUNTY KING WILLIAM COUNTY Mountain Valley-Cedar Grove: Valerie W. Annex-Crimora: Gayle Thornberry (1) PE Epworth: Jonathan B. Baker (4) PL Ritter (5) Annex, Crimora McKendree: Chad T. Beck (2) PL Cedar Grove, Mountain Valley Bethany: Bradley A. McMullen (7) LANCASTER COUNTY Port Republic: James W. Joyner (2) Harriston-Mt. Bethel: I. Cameron Carte (1) PL Asbury: Jack T. Bailey (2) PL St. James (Pleasant Vly): Carrie L. Talbott (3) FL Harriston, Mt. Bethel Bethel-Emmanuel: Rachel Gordon Plemmons Singers Glen: Edward F. Wilkins (2) Mount Pisgah: John Crawford III (11.5) RE (2) FL Cherry Grove, Donovan Memorial Congregational Care & Visitation: P. Mardy Bethel, Emmanuel Sunset Dr. (Broadway): H. Donald Hawks Jr. (4) Marston (5) LM Irvington: A. Ray Massie (2) PL Vision of Hope: David M. Burch (10) Mount Zion (Mt. Solon): Darin M. Buse (2) PL Kilmarnock: Penny P. Cory (3) SHENANDOAH COUNTY New Hope: E. Thomas Murphy Jr. (2) RE White Stone: L. Bryan McClain (8) Dir. of Discipleship & Spiritual Formation: Christian Newcomer: Luther Edwin ‘Nip’ NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY A. Alan Tuten (6) LM Crites Jr. (7) OE Bethany (Reedville): Susan F. Brack (5) Min. of Music: Courtney C. Joyner (6) FD Christian Newcomer, Mt. Hebron Bluff Point: Jack T. Bailey (2) PL Parnassus: Victoria L. Barb (4) PL Columbia Furnace-Union Forge: W. Glen Galilee: Carl L. Perez (1) Sangersville: Gary M. Monroe (5) PL Early (1) AM Heathsville: Rebecca L. Minor (5) Verona: Robert J. Weeks (5) Columbia Furnace, Union Forge Henderson: Esther N. Agbosu (3) FL Weyers Cave: Margaret M. Packard (6) FL Edinburg: Robert O. Jones Jr. (4) Melrose: Janet F. Grissett (6) HARRISONBURG St. John’s, Wesley Chapel Mila-Wicomico: Donna M. Blythe (8) PL Asbury: Stephen D. Hay (3) Fort Valley: Larry Aikens (3) OF Mila, Wicomico Associate: Robert E. Talbott (7) FL Oak Level, White Chapel Northumberland: Kwon Hong Min (2) PE Min. of Music: Laura B. Douglass (16) FD Manor Memorial (New Market): R. Bruce Afton, Fairfields John Wesley: Faith E. Evans (2) PL Johnson (6) Rehoboth: Donna M. Blythe (4) PL Otterbein: Adam L. Blagg (2) PE Mount Jackson: Michael A. Dettmer (5) PE RICHMOND COUNTY RISE: Amanda Miller Garber (6) Mt. Jackson, Quicksburg Richmond: Kenneth E. Hanson (1) FL PAGE COUNTY Mt. Olive-Shiloh: Kathleen W. Haynes (2) Calvary, Hopewell, Oakland Luray: Erich D. Bennett (5) Mt. Olive, Shiloh Warsaw: Emily A. Moore (3) PE Page: Laura Whittle Stratton (3) PE Mount Pleasant: F. Darlene Wilkins (1) FL SPOTSYLVANIA COUNTY Shenandoah: Stephen R. Creech (19) Assistant: Lisa Coffelt (1) SY Eastland: Craig A. Muffley (5) Christ, Fields Hawkinstown, Mt. Clifton, Mt. Hermon, Peace: Bradford L. Phillips (2) Shenandoah Circuit: Ellen H. Martin (7) PL Otterbein Chapel Shady Grove-Olivet: Hae Rin Lawson (4) Grove Hill, Oak Grove Shenandoah Valley: Alvin West (1) SY Olivet, Shady Grove Stanley: Richard P. Grendahl (3) FL Mt. Zion (Strasburg), Mt. Zion (Woodstock) Tabernacle: Barry R. Throckmorton (1) ROCKINGHAM COUNTY Strasburg: John B. Haynes Jr. (2) Wilderness Community: Keith D. Boyette (18) Blue Ridge: Kevin C. Poeckert (4) FL Toms Brook: Stanley A. Thompson (1) Zion: Kimberly Barker-Brugman (1) Assistant: Samuel Plymale (1) SY Woodstock: Robert N. Hoskins Jr. (3) STAFFORD COUNTY Furnace, Hensley, Jolletts, Mt. Pleasant Andrew Chapel: Thomas L. Swingle (1) SY Bridgewater: James M. Tongue (5) JAMES RIVER DISTRICT Antioch: Christopher Fair (11) PL Associate: James A. Harris (6) RE District Superintendent: Robin L. Colwell (3) Ebenezer: Mark A. Miller (21) Clover Hill: Edward S. Barnett (1) BRUNSWICK COUNTY Associate: Mark Montgomery (1) Dayton: Steven L. Bird (13) Brunswick: Ruth A. Collins-Dinger (4) RL Falmouth: Robin BeMiller (2) PL Elkton: David T. Reynolds (24) Edgerton, Pelhams, Pleasant Grove New Hope: Teresa S. Smith (6) Evangelical-St. Paul: David F. Vaughan (3) Philadelphia: R. Shaun Smith (1) FL Regester Chapel: Sung Il Yoo (3) Assistant: Sarah Bailey (2) PL Ebenezer, Matthews Chapel, Philadelphia Saint Matthias: Patsy B. Tony (4) Evangelical, St. Paul CHESTERFIELD COUNTY Salem: Robin BeMiller (2) PL Fellowship-Linville-Edom: Marlene A. Bermuda Hundred: Elizabeth S. Anderson (4) WESTMORELAND COUNTY Chandler (2) FL Bethia: James H. Carey Jr. (18) Andrew Chapel: Kevin F. Elmore (1) FL Edom, Fellowship, Linville Associate: R. Jason Elmore (8) PL Carmel-Coles Point: Reginald G. Rumburg (8) AM First (Broadway): Debra C. Cline (1) Centenary: Pennie M. Foy (3) PL Carmel, Coles Point Chester: Sylvia S. Meadows (3) Colonial Beach: Yunho Eo (5) Fulks Run: Benjamin C. Lalka (2) FL Caplingers, Mt. Carmel, Riverside Associate: Patrick S. Pillow (1) FL Edgewater: Jon B. Davis (3) SY Ettrick: Bobby H. Lamb (6) RA Ebenezer: Rebecca L. Rumburg (3) Grottoes: Brian E. Posey (2) PE Keezletown: T. Joel Robinette (4) Hopewell: Mark D. Richardson (2) Grace (Oak Grove): Jesse C. Blythe (1) PL Massanutten: Richard R. Robertson (3) FL Ivey Memorial: James M. Smith (1) Montross: Julie Ann Larch (3) Matoaca: Richard S. Gordon (5) Lebanon, Providence East Point, Mt. Zion, St. Peter’s, Trinity McGaheysville: James R. Wingert (3) Trinity: Teresa M. Keezel (5) Mount Clinton: Andrew Peck-McClain (2) OE Wesley Chapel: Michelle E. Lindsey (6) Woods: Joseph T. Carson III (6)
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 15 COLONIAL HEIGHTS SUSSEX COUNTY CAMPBELL COUNTY Highland: Dorothy McNeer O’Quinn (4) Fort Grove: Alexander Davis (1) SY Bethany: Jennifer V. Moore (1) FL Associate: Michael Tolbert (5) FL Rocky Hock-Ivor: Clifton D. Fritzinger (6) PL Bethlehem (Concord): Daniel R. Dibble (6) PL Wesley: L. Raymond McGarr (3) Ivor, Rocky Hock Brookneal: Robert W. Ford (1) DINWIDDIE COUNTY Concord: Brian J. Simmons (3) PE Calvary: Michael W. Miller (7) PL Carson: Joseph E. Hammond Jr. (6) AM Lebanon: Donna B. Smith (1) PL Indian Hill: James D. Stevens (2) OF Crawford: Thomas F. Lester (12) PL Sharon: James H. Harrison Jr. (1) PL Lane Memorial: Daniel A. Wray (1) Kenwood: Mary K. Dadisman (3) PE Wakefield: Curtis Dearman Lucy (3) FL Long Mountain: Kevin M. Holt (2) OF Lebanon: Steven E. McMillion (1) Waverly: Steven C. Snodgrass (1) PL Earlys Chapel, Mt. Olivet, Mt. Zion McKenney: Karen Workman (9) FL SURRY COUNTY Mead Memorial: Jack S. Turner (2) FL Asbury, Rocky Run Claremont: Mary Alice Colwell (1) PL Mount Hermon: Dawn Compton (1) OD Ocran: R. Lawrence House (7) Surry: Raymond G. Rowland (26) New Bethel: James D. Stevens (1) FL South Dinwiddie Hope: S. Ray Watson (1) PL Carsley, Dendron, Oak Grove, Surry New Hope-Sharon: Richard A. Daily (1) RE Mansons, Mount Olivet New Hope, Sharon Twin Grove: Andrew Ware (2) FL LYNCHBURG DISTRICT Providence-Whites: George Jack Davis (2) FL Oak Grove, Smiths Grove District Superintendent: Larry E. Davies (8) Providence, Whites West Dinwiddie: James G. O’Quinn (3) AMHERST COUNTY Rustburg: Sung Woon Yoo (4) PE Corinth, Trinity, White Oak Amelon: Lawrence A. Erbin (2) Salem: Charles E. Schooler (18) FL EMPORIA Emmanuel: Nancy Coleman Johnson (3) FL Timberlake: M. Lynne Alley-Grant (3) Main Street: A. Bruce Carper (4) Monroe: George S. Riggins III (9) Twin Lakes: Byung-Chul Sung (2) OE Monumental: Gerald L. Wicker (6) PE Mt. Tabor-Smyrna: Joyce Austin (8) LM Huddleston, Leesville, Mt. Horeb GREENSVILLE COUNTY Mt. Tabor, Smyrna Wesleybury: William A. Smith (4) SY Centenary (Jarratt): Richard C. Franklin Jr. (1) PL St. James-Beulah Retreat Center: Norma J. West Campbell: Marcia K. Huntsman (1) PE Greensville: Joellen M. Simmons (3) FL Dean (1) PL Evington, Lambs Independence, Mt. Pleasant APPOMATTOX COUNTY LYNCHBURG HOPEWELL Appomattox Circuit: Larry F. Mann (5) AM Boonsboro: Ronald A. Litten (5) First: J. Christopher Andress (2) Mt. Comfort, Trinity Centenary: R. Douglas Gunsalus (2) Wesley: Steven Vornov (3) Bethel: Janet C. Burton (4) SY Chestnut Hill: Becky J. Cloud (7) PETERSBURG BEDFORD Christ’s View: Phillip C. Showers (9) FL Petersburg Cooperative Parish: Gretchen Main Street: Richard H. Ecklund (2) Christ’s Community Fellowhsip, Fairview O.S. Nelson (3) BEDFORD COUNTY Court Street: Mark A. Tinsley (1) SY Associate: T. Todd Smith (2) Bedford Springs: William Turner Burleigh (8) FL Forest Road: Ray A. Buchanan (2) Saint Mark’s, Washington Street Forest, Marsh Memorial Fort Hill: Elizabeth W. Ecklund (3) Trinity: Gerald M. Miller (10) RE Bellevue: H.O. ‘Tom’ Thomas Jr. (9) Minister of Music and Congregational PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY Bethany, Oakland Care: Janet D. Hawkins (16) FD Blandford: Jacob H. Sahms (8) Bethesda: Susan W. Keen (5) PL Heritage: William B. Montgomery (5) Garys-Salem: Michael Baugham (1) FL Bethlehem (Moneta): David W. Lord (9) Associate: Megan J. Saucier (5) Garys, Salem Minister to Children and Youth: Heather Jackson Street: Reason A. Chandler (3) FL Prince George: Gilbert M. Elder (3) FL L. Wray (1) PD Peakland: John N. Vest (3) Newville, Salem Big Island-Cove: Minister of Youth and Education: Jason C. Sycamore: DeWayne A. Duncan (3) Big Island: TBS Stanley (4) FD Trinity (Disputanta): Stephen P. King (2) Cove: Lisa S. Dibble (1) SY Tyreeanna-Salem: James W. Martin (16) RL SOUTHAMPTON COUNTY Center Point-Salem: William R. Clark (4) PL Salem, Tyreeanna Boykins: Heewon Cho (1) OE Center Point, Salem PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY Boykins, Branchville, Persons Ebenezer-Otterville: Mark A. Wilkerson (11) LM Anderson Memorial (Gretna): Sharon L. Capron: Nancy A. Palmer (3) FL Ebenezer, Otterville Forbes (2) Associate: David Everett (1) SY Epworth (Thaxton): Jeane D. Dunkum (3) Fowler Memorial: Floyd A. Archie (2) SY Capron, Drewryville, Joyner, Vincents Grv Kelly Circuit: Kelvin A. Edwards (4) PL Bethany-Ebenezer, Mt. Airy Courtland: Andrew H. Book (2) Hales Ford, New Hope Hurt: Robert J. Thorne (4) RA High Street: Nathan A. Decker (1) Mt. Zion: Mark W. Tucker (2) PL Mount Airy: Kyle Uselton (1) SY Newsoms: Darwin G. Edwards (9) PE Lebanon: Steven D. Parker (6) RA Providence, Republican Grove, St. Andrew Barnes, Newsoms Mountain View: Steven L. Propst (7) New Bethel-Motley: Harold E. Thornton (1) RE Trinity Circuit: Rita A. Kanten (6) FL Otter: Jerry O. Viemeister (4) PL Motley, New Bethel Grace Memorial, Sebrell Ephesus, Nicopolis Payneton-Siloam: M. Stephen Morris (1) SY SUFFOLK Patmos: Riley R. Smith Jr. (5) RE Payneton, Siloam Magnolia: Michael W. Harrington (2) FL Peaksview: Joshua E. Dalton (1) SY Smith Mountain: Main Street: Myrtle F. Hatcher (5) Hickory Grove, Mt. Olivet, Wilsons Mt. Zion: Thomas W. Motley (1) SY Oxford: Glenn Riggs (1) PL Shiloh: Charles E. Johnson (4) PL New Ridgeway: Ricky R. Scott (1) SY Providence: Garland K. Hines (6) RE Emmaus-Union: Edward F. Sheehan (3) FL Zion: David P. Edinger (1) FL Somerton: James Bowers (1) OF Emmaus, Union Whaleyville: John E. Meservey (3) PL
16 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 Laurel Hill: Norman L. Ramsey III (5) CRAIG COUNTY RICHMOND DISTRICT River Road: Darcy G. Johnson (1) Foothills: Rodney Longmire (2) SY District Superintendent: Peter M. Moon (1) Saint Andrew’s: Amy Beth Hougland (4) Hebron, Mt. Pleasant, Pierce Chapel CHESTERFIELD COUNTY Shady Grove: David L. Adkins (11) Asbury Memorial: Benjamin E. Horrocks (4) New Castle: Willie B. Guill Jr. (3) Associate: Anne B. ‘Beanie’ Kelley (1) FL Beulah: Keith A. Mottley (6) Bethel, New Castle Skipwith: Teresa K. McRoberts (2) Associate: William J. Waller (4) PE FLOYD COUNTY Trinity: Larry E. Lenow (3) Bon Air: N. Burton Brooks Jr. (1) Floyd Parish: Darren E. Landon (8) FL Associate: M. Thomas Lott (4) PE Associate: Jennifer L. Day (2) Copper Hill, Havens Chpl, Huffville, Stonewall Minister of Discipleship: Judith Clegg Brandermill: John G. Briggs Jr. (1) RA FRANKLIN COUNTY Oguich (16) FD Associate: Edward Kross (4) MOD Boones Mill: Warren R. Carswell (2) Welborne: F. Elizabeth Givens (4) Mount Pisgah: Robert E. Cooper (4) Mount Olivet: Connie Ray Lee Sr. (33) RL Willis: Mark V. Rooks (6) Associate: Anita E. Mays (3) PE GILES COUNTY Worship and Praise: Timothy J. Kirven (5) FL New Life: Michael T. Maxwell (8) Newport-Mt. Olivet: Morris V. Fleischer (8) FL LOUISA COUNTY Providence: Derrick Parson (1) Pembroke: Laney S. Spigener Jr. (1) Gum Spring: Lauren E. Lobenhofer (2) Saint Luke’s: Lisa K. Sykes (5) First, Mt. Lebanon NEW KENT COUNTY Saint Mark’s: Francis T. Cooper (1) MONTGOMERY COUNTY Providence: William H. John Jr. (2) Associate: E. Joseph T. Varner (2) PE Asbury (Christiansbg): J. Robert Berghuis (1) POWHATAN COUNTY Sherbourne: Pamela H. Culler (10) PL Belview: Bobbie Jo Henley (4) Powhatan: John T. Hemming (4) Woodlake: Gordon K. Pruitt (1) Blacksburg: Joseph D. Carson (2) Min. of Discipleship: Kiok Chang Cho (1) FD Associate: Paul S. Baker (4) Associate: Christina R. McLain (5) RICHMOND Associate: Erin M. Reibel (7) PL Associate: Darryl W. McCallum (3) FL Asbury (Church Hill): Marilyn A. Heckstall (11) GOOCHLAND COUNTY Associate: Kelly A. Shushok (3) PL Belmont: Larry J. Cochran (5) Bethel: John R. Hall Sr. (18.5) AM Min. of Music: Leigh Anne Taylor (15) FD Associate: Julio Serrano-Perez (3) PL Corinth: Robert L. Jennings (1) PL Calvary (Christiansbg): Sebert W. Rorrer (14) RE Boulevard: Rachel G. May (4) St. Matthew’s: Christopher M. Bennett (1) Crockett Springs: Milton E. Marks (1) RE Calvary: Timothy M. Farabaugh (1) HANOVER COUNTY Fieldstone: Jonathan J. Page (2) Centenary: Matthew D. Bates Jr. (5) Duncan Memorial: Timothy R. Gerde (1) Goodwin Memorial: Joseph Gregory Kropff (1) SY Central: Thomas W. Sweat (8) Associate: TBS Halls: Brenda Sternfeld (2) PL Emmaus at Stratford Hills: Chul Ki Kim (3) Dunns Chapel: William R. Freeman (4) RE Lafayette: L. Wayne Carter (2) RE Ginter Park: Dennis Lipke (4) RE Enon: ReNe’e R. Teague (2) Mt. Elbert: Bobbie Jo Henley (2) Huguenot: Peter R. Falbo (4) OR Forest Grove: Linda E.F. Crabbs (3) PE Mt. Tabor: Kenneth D. Farrar (6) PL Ramsey Memorial: Deborah Ann Koontz (3) Kenwood: Daniel Kim (1) PE Park: Patricia A. Jones (2) RE Associate: Norma E. Aguilar (9) PL Lebanon: R. Spencer Broce (11) Prices Fork: Michael Hill (2) SY Reveille: J. Douglas Forrester (2) Mechanicsville: Kerry D. Boggs (16) Saint Paul (Christiansbg): Moonsup Paul Song (1) Associate: Katherine B. Anthony (4) Mount Hermon: Keith A. Lauer (7) PL Trinity (Christiansbg): Russell Shepherd (4) PL Associate: Stephen A. Coleman (6) FL New Song: Chad M. Herndon (8) Wesley Memorial: Charles W. DeHart (2) RL Dir. of Adult Discipleship: Kelley Lane (2) PD Associate: Mark A. Roscoe (2) PL White Memorial: Herbert C. Williams Jr. (8) Dir. of Youth Ministries: Amy L. Crisp (2) PD Prospect: TBS ROANOKE Walmsley Boulevard: Denise B. Watkins (3) Saint Peter’s: Debra Ruth Lucas (7) Fairview: Donald W. Baldwin (7) FL FL Shady Grove: John J. Kelchner Jr. (6) Grace: E. Eugene Jones (11) RE Wesley Memorial: Rodney M. Hunter (30) RE Associate: TBS Greene Memorial: Gary E. Heaton (3) Westhampton: Christina Haga Turner (7) Min. of Discipleship: Cynthia A. Lee (11) FD Huntington Court: Jeffrey D. Wilson (6) Westover Hills: Donna C. Holder (6) Shiloh: Sarah G. Sealand (2) Raleigh Court: Seungsoo Jun (1) West Hanover: Claudia H. Stallings (13) Saint Paul: Carroll C. Carter (5) Beaverdam, Rouzies Chapel ROANOKE DISTRICT South Roanoke: L. Stanley Wright Jr. (7) District Superintendent: Kathleen Overby Southview: David V. Ford (2) HENRICO COUNTY Webster (3) Brookland: Lynne B. Caldwell (8) OE Trinity: William C. Logan (12) RE BEDFORD COUNTY Chamberlayne Heights: Linda Driver Ray (2) West End: Jeffry K. Yoo-Hess (1) PL Mays Memorial: Stephen T. Claris (2.5) SY Christ: Karen B. Hittel (2) Windsor Hills: Douglas B. Paysour (1) Parrish Chapel: Troy M. White (12) RL Corinth: W. Joseph Winfree (3) Woodlawn: John B. Snyder (2) Three Oaks Fellowship: Marianne M. Bird (1) RE Discovery: James E. Lavender Jr. (33) ROANOKE COUNTY BOTETOURT COUNTY Bonsack: Timothy F. Tate (8) East Henrico Cooperative Parish: Lorena E. Andrew Chapel: Morris A. Bennett (9.5) RE Beach (3) FL Youth Minister: Timothy Craft (3) PD Buchanan: W. Douglas Mitchell (3.5) FL Bishop Memorial, Fairmount Catawba Circuit: Melanie D. Franklin (8) PL Lithia, Trinity Good Shepherd: Steven J. Summers (3) Catawba, McDonalds Mill, Shiloh Eagle Rock: W. Raysor Sandifer (13) PL Min. of Discipleship & Communications: Cave Spring: Denise P. Bates (1) Bethel, Eagle Rock, Glen Wilton, Shiloh Lisa M. McGehee (6) FD Associate: Joanna M. Paysour (4) Ebenezer: John Preer (5) OR Greenwood-Laurel Park: Barbara D. Lewis (4) PE Lawrence Memorial: Terry A. Ross (5.5) PL Fincastle: Jae-Haeng Choi (2) OE Greenwood, Locust Grove: Benjamin F. Lockhart Jr. (7) PL Laurel Park Saint Mark’s: Robert D. Lough (3) Highland Springs: Douglas E. Crockett (5) OE Mount Pleasant: Robert G. Stutes (3) OE Lakeside: Rita A. Callis (5) Northview: Joseph H. Klotz Jr. (5)
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 17 Rockingham Ct: Seung Hae Yoo-Hess (1) PE COVINGTON St. Mark’s: Herbert E. Drake (1) SY Thrasher Memorial: Walter B. Failes Jr. (5) Christ: Christina R. Bowen (1) SY FREDERICK COUNTY Associate: Jaeyong Song (3) PE Granbery Memorial: Russell T. Urban (1) Brucetown: Yun Chol Kim (5) PE SALEM Mt. Carmel: Douglas E. Hollenbeck (14) FL Burnt Factory: C. Steven Melester (10) AM Calvary (Salem): Jason L. Bryant (1) FL Parrish Court: Deborah D. Washer (3) FL Cedar Grove: Penny L. Matheson (1) FL Central: Bryan K. Buckles (1) HIGHLAND COUNTY Little Mountain, Mt. Pleasant, Pleasant Vly. First: Bass M. Mitchell (1) Blue Grass: W. Andre Crummett (16) FL Emmanuel: Barry L. Burkholder (1) Associate: Jeffrey L. Dorsey (19) Blue Grass, Hightown Fairview-Refuge: John E. Lock (10) McDowell: David R. Boger (15) RE Fairview, Refuge STAUNTON DISTRICT Doe Hill, McDowell, McKendree, Totten Francis Asbury: Anthony A. Wadsworth (3) RE District Superintendent: David J. Rochford III (3) Monterey: Bobbi Jo Gardner (2) SY Chestnut Grove, Howard Chapel ALLEGHANY COUNTY Asbury, Green Hill, Monterey Gainesboro: Saundra A. Nottingham (3) RE Alleghany: Shannon Cox (3) SY LEXINGTON Grace (Middletown): Thomas H. Keithley (6) Callaghan: James R. Rodden (7) Trinity: Norman Tippens (6) Greenwood-Montague Avenue: Andy L. Fletcher Chapel, Hoke Chapel ROCKBRIDGE COUNTY Brock (3) PE Epworth: Nathan R. Colwell (1) FL Collierstown: James A. Bollinger (3.5) FL Greenwood, Montague Avenue Iron Gate: William D. Bearden (1) FL Collierstown, Mt. Horeb Kernstown: Aaron W. Fitch (2) Iron Gate, Longdale, Walton Mem. Ebenezer-Marvin: R. Michael Long (2) SY Macedonia: Michel Q. Mayton (2) Mountain Valley: Howard Ray Tucker (1) RL Ebenezer, Marvin North Frederick: Thomas W. Reynolds (3) FL Associate: Christina Bowen (2) SY Fairfield: Elizabeth von Trapp Walker (4) Rest, White Hall Mt. Pleasant-.S. Covington: Charles H. Cole Jr. (5) PE Emory, Fairfield Old Bethel-Welltown Cooperative Parish: Mt. Pleasant, South Covington Rockbridge: Lucy Jackson Hughes (2) RL Carl M. Chapman (1) FL Potts Valley: David C. Brown (14) FL Beth Horon, Elliott’s Hill, Mt. Zion Old Bethel, Welltown Humphrey’s, Persinger Mem., Pinnell STAUNTON Pleasant View: Haley E. Mills (2) FL AUGUSTA COUNTY Central: Won Un (3) Mt. Pleasant-Lamps, Mountain View Bethlehem-Jollivue: Janet C. Knott (5) AM Cherryvale: Clayton W. Payne (2) FL Redland: Melissa D. Porter-Miller (3) Bethlehem, Jollivue Christ: Sarah D. Locke (2) PE Relief-Hites: J. Richard McDowell (2) Calvary: Charles F. Reynolds (1) Marquis Memorial: Robert W. Sharp (6) Hites Chapel, Relief Associate: Nancy M. Vaughan (2) FL Saint John’s: Taylor C. Mertins (3) PE Round Hill: Penny L. Wilson Jr. (3) Churchville Cooperative Parish: Lester W. Saint Paul’s: T. Bryson Smith (2) Shockeysville: TBS Kennedy (1) FL Staunton-Grottoes: John Benson (3) SY Stephens City: Robert W. Gochenour (2) Glossbrenner, Saint James Augusta Street, Mt. Moriah, Mt. Tabor Wesley Chapel-Pine Grove: Philip H. Fishersville: Charles F. Bates (1) WAYNESBORO Brumback (2) PL Associate: Ryan Oswald (5) FL Basic: Donald Gibson (12) PE Pine Grove, Wesley Chapel Greenville: Kevin W. Haynes (12) Glovier Memorial: Ryan M. Schaeffer (2) PE LOUDOUN COUNTY Lyndhurst-Oak Hill: Michael W. Pettry (5) FL Main Street: W. Clay Knick (2) Bethany (Purcellville): Michael D. Finn- Lyndhurst, Oak Hill Certified Lay Minister: Harold E. Baldwin Jr. McKenzie (4) McKinley: Donald L. Long (16) RE (11) LM Evergreen: F.W. Giessler II (17) Mint Spring: Terry L. Clark (7) Pleasant View: Eric Strother (3) SY Harmony (Hamilton): David R. Drinkard (1) Rankin: Charles E. Carroll (8) ROM St. Mark’s-Wayne Hills: Mi Sook Ahn (1) PL Leesburg: James N. Wishmyer (9) Associate: Don Duty (1) SY St Mark’s, Wayne Hills Minister of Administration: Wayne R. St. Paul’s-Goshen: Mary Pysell (2) SY Reynolds (8) LM Goshen, St. Paul’s (Craigsville) WINCHESTER DISTRICT Loudoun: J. Robert Schoeman (5) PE Shenandoah: Reginald A. Early (1) RL District Superintendent: Lawrence R. Aldie, Unison, Upperville Asbury, Community, Lawson, Randolph Street Thompson Jr. (6) Lovettsville: Eugenie Finn-McKenzie (4) Sherando: Sarah Payne (2) PL CLARKE COUNTY Bethel, Mt. Pleasant Stonewall-West View: David Coffey (1) SY Boyce-White Post-Millwood: Geraldine R. Mt. Olivet: Lee J. Crosby (8) FL Stonewall, West View Burkholder (1) PL Mt. Zion (Leesburg): Melbourne H. Bailey (7) RE West Augusta: W. Robert Nash (3) SY Boyce, Millwood, White Post Purcellville Circuit: Alphonso L. Irving (9) FL BATH COUNTY Crums: Thomas R. Barnard (1) Austin Grv, Grace Annex, Powells Grv Bath: Lorrie Aikens (4) FL Duncan Mem. (Berryville): J. Jeffrey Butcher (2) Rehoboth: Eunji Kim (1) SY Burnsville, Eden, Starr-Bolar, Va. Chapel Marvin Chapel: Kenneth K. Patrick (13) RE Round Hill: Jeffrey A. Witt (15) Hot Springs: Vivian M. Utz (2) FL Paris Mountain: Karen D. M. Adams (11) PL Short Hill: Marcellus H. Jagoe IV (1) PL Ashwood, Emory Mt. Carmel, Providence Chapel Ebenezer, Hillsboro BOTETOURT COUNTY FAUQUIER COUNTY West Loudoun: Wesley S. Corber (5) PL Mount Olivet: Doris T. Hedrick (4) PL Cool Spring: Janet L. Martin (7) RL Bluemont, Roszell Chapel BUENA VISTA Linden-Markham: Terry L. Hendricks (1) FL Willisville-Hamilton Cooperative Parish: Saint John’s: Sonja Flye Oliver (1) FL Linden, Markham Wilhelmina Sumpter (1) People United in Christ: Danta Thompson (2) SY Marshall-Middleburg: Leah A. DeLong (2) Mt. Zion (Hamilton), Willisville Chapel CLIFTON FORGE Marshall, Middleburg WARREN COUNTY Central: J. Lynn Wright (2) FL Rectortown: Thomas W. Crosby (1) Bethel: Ralph H. Crabill (1) RE
18 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 Front Royal: Alan T. Combs (1) Wellspring: Edward A. Hopkins (6) Chestnut Memorial: Robert M. Chapman (2) Howellsville: Francis P. Bertrand (4) PL KING & QUEEN COUNTY Christ: Thomas G. Tipton (4) John Wesley: Mary L. Marshall (3) RL Shackelfords Chapel: Charles J. McHose (6) RE First: Robert L. Haley (4) Reliance-Ridings Chapel: Linda H. Lowe (2) KING WILLIAM COUNTY Grace: Forrest H. Teague Jr. (1) Reliance, Ridings Chapel West Point: Gordon K. Meriwether (1) FL Holy Cross International: Yoon Seok Choi (6) OE Riverton: C. Marc Roberson (2) MATHEWS COUNTY Trinity: Valerie V. Duncan (2) PL Warren: Sherry L. Waddell (3) FL Bethel-St. Matthew: Ralph G. Satter (2) RE Parkview: Timothy M. Porter (4) PL Asbury, Bennetts Chapel, Limeton Bethel, St. Matthew Warwick Memorial: WINCHESTER Beulah-St. Paul: Delia M. Parrish (5) Co-Pastor: Regina Anderson-Cloud (3) Amor y Paz-Mt. Olive Cooperative Parish: Beulah, St. Paul Co-Pastor: Bert Cloud (3) Victor R. Gomez (5) Central: Ji Hoon “John” Choi (1) POQUOSON Amor y Paz, Mt. Olive Mathews Chapel: Lisa R. Blackmonson (1) Tabernacle: James N. Earley II (1) Braddock Street: G. Kirk Nave (4) Salem: Brian W. Johnson (2) Associate: Brenton A. Staul (1) PL Associate: J. Adam Sowder (3) West Mathews: Jeongin Kim (2) OE Trinity: Charles R. Stacy (4) Min. of Serve Min.: Joanna S. Dietz (2) FD Emmanuel, Grace-Providence WILLIAMSBURG First: William M. White (7) MIDDLESEX COUNTY Williamsburg: Matthew W. Jones (6) John Mann: Laetitia Schoeman (1) PL Clarksbury: Kenneth E. Cleveland (2) FL Associate: Kirsten ‘Kay’ Barré (3) Market Street: Eric C. Song (3) Lower Church: Ileana Rosario (1) Min. of Congregational Care: Helen Casey- Wesley: R. Douglas Geeting (2) Middlesex: Timothy R. Earnhardt (1) FL Rutland (3) Forest Chapel, Old Church YORK COUNTY YORK RIVER DISTRICT Urbanna: Hyung Il Moon (5) Crooks Memorial: Lisa A. Barbery (3) District Superintendent: Seonyoung Kim (2) NEW KENT COUNTY Providence: C. Douglas Akers (6) CHARLES CITY COUNTY New Kent: Lawrence S. Brayton (4) FL Saint Luke’s: Douglas D. Gestwick (10) Memorial: Steven D. Barbery (1) PE Pamunkey, Tabernacle Associate: Clara P. Gestwick (10) GLOUCESTER COUNTY NEWPORT NEWS Zion: David C. Magruder (2) PE Bellamy: Kenneth Stephen Waclo (7) Asbury: C. Leon Basham Jr. (1) PL Bethany (Gloucester Pt.): Deborah T. Marion (3) Bethlehem: Carol I. Bookwalter (3.5) RE Gloucester-Mathews: Paul F. Gillespie (2) FL Locust Grove, Mt. Zion EXTENSION MINISTRIES AND New Hope: Chong Ho Yang (1) Salem-Olive Branch: Rita L. Staul (13) OTHER APPOINTMENTS Olive Branch, Salem Singleton: Calvin J. Griffin (6.5) ALEXANDRIA DISTRICT Pamela G. Meeuwissen (PL)—Chaplain/ Susanna Wesley: J. Garrett Livermon (7) Lindsey Baynham—Min. Dir. of Arise, Spiritual Care Counselor, Mary Washing- HAMPTON United Campus Ministries in NoVa ton Hospice (Christ) Bethany: Suzanne D. Gibson (1) Keiko Foster—Bi-District Program Coordi- Marianne K. Nassef—Chaplain, US Air Force East Hampton: Edward H. Merry (12) PL nator (Fairlington) First (Fox Hill): Brian K. Sixbey (6) Morgan Guyton—Director, NOLA Wesley James A. Noseworthy—Vice President First (Hampton): Candace L. Martin (1) Foundation, Tulane and Loyola Universi- for Administration, Garrett-Evangelical Fox Hill Central: Eric J. Vaudt (2) PE ties (Burke) Theological Seminary (Rising Hope) Kecoughtan: Jennifer A. Mercer (2) FL J. Denise Honeycutt—Deputy General Sec- Lemuel E. Pearsall Jr.—Chaplain, US Army Aldersgate, Central retary, UMCOR, GBGM (St. Matthew’s) (Good Shepherd) Phoebus: Robert E. Rough (5) PL Lucretia Hurley-Browning—Director, R. Kendall Soulen—Professor of Systematic Saint James: Dwight A. Hughes (6) Theology, Wesley Seminary (Annandale) Saint Mark’s: Gay Brown Hall (2) Juniper Tree Pastoral Counseling Center and Chaplain, Joan Karnell Cancer Center, Ann On-Lin Tang—Chaplain, US Army Wallace Memorial: Herbert Brynildsen Jr. (1) FL (Messiah) Wesley: Jason W. Snow (4) Philadelphia (Aldersgate) J. Pat Watkins—Ministry with God’s ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY Amy Dawn Johnson—Staff Chaplain, Renewed Creation, Missionary, General Benn’s: Orville H. Burton (8) INOVA Fairfax Hospital (St. Thomas) Board of Global Ministries (St. Matthew’s) Bethany: Michael T. Frank (2) Karla M. Kincannon—Director of Field Edu- Susan E. Willhauck (FD)—Associate Profes- Oak Grove-Riverview: Michael D. Guminsky cation and of Vocational Formation and (1) PL Church Leadership, Garrett-Evangelical sor of Pastoral Theology, Atlantic School Oak Grove, Riverview Theological Seminary (Rising Hope) of Theology (St. Matthew’s) Trinity: Jeffery Lee Cannon (5) David F. McAllister-Wilson— President, Associate: Andrew S. Ensz (2) PE Wesley Seminary (St. Matthew’s) ARLINGTON DISTRICT Uzzell: Rebecca W. Gwaltney (4) PL Drema McAllister-Wilson—On loan: Minis- Sandra L. Boone—On loan: Water’s Edge Woodland: Amanda H. Newman (2) FL ter of Congregational Care, Metropolitan UMC, Baltimore-Washington Conference JAMES CITY COUNTY Memorial UMC, Baltimore-Washington (Pender) Mount Vernon: Ann On-Lin Tang (1) Conference (St. Matthew’s) New Town: J. Michael Derflinger (2)
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 19 Sarah L. K. Calvert—Bi-District Coordinator for Church Revitalization and Leadership ELIZABETH RIVER DISTRICT JAMES RIVER DISTRICT Frank P. Decker—Vice-President, Member Kevin A. Anderson (PD)—Special Education Development (Floris) Care and Development, The Mission Teacher, Marguerite Christian Elementary Tammie E. Crews— Brigade Chaplain, US Society (GA) (Community, Portsmouth) School (Bermuda Hundred) Army (The Vine) James R. Driscoll—Operations and Mobili- Delano Douglas (FL)—James River District Melissa R. Dunlap—Bi-District Coordinator zation Chaplain, Army Chief of Chaplains VSU Campus Minister and “The Flow” for Church Development (The Vine) Office (Baylake) (Highland) Kotosha Seals Griffin (PE)—On Loan: Pastor, Joseph T. Eldridge—University Chaplain, J. Stanley Hargraves—Registrar, Union St. Matthews UMC, Metairie, Louisiana American University (Epworth) Presbyterian Seminary (Chester) Conference (Galloway) Pamela J. Gable—On loan: Pastor, Moga- Robin C.M. Jones (FL)—Director of the Spiri- Gary L. Hulme—President/CEO and Pastoral dore UMC, E. Ohio Conference (Great tual Care Program, Jackson-Feild Homes Counselor, Pastoral Counseling of North- Bridge) (Salem) ern VA (Mount Olivet) Anne West Kesner (PD)—Chaplain, The James G. O’Quinn—James River District Sangkeun Kim—Professor of Mission Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daugh- Director of Congregational Excellence Studies, Theology Department, Yonsei ters (New Creation) (West Dinwiddie) University, Korea (Korean UMC Greater Joel M. LeMon—Associate Prof. of Old Timothy Todd Smith—Counselor, Pathways- Washington) Testament, Candler School of Theology, VA, Inc. (Bethia) Paul A. Nixon—New Church Development Emory University (Ebenezer) John D. White (FD)—Autism Teacher, Strategist, GBOD and CEO, Epicenter Charles E. Rowley—Chaplain, U.S. Navy Chesterfield County Schools (Trinity/ Group (Arlington Temple) (New Creation) Chesterfield) Martha M. Real (FD)—Executive Director, Gregory B. West—Chaplain, Virginia Wes- GRACE Ministries of The UMC (Floris) leyan College (Ebenezer) Charles K. Tran—On loan: Pastor, Vietnam- LYNCHBURG DISTRICT ese Fellowship, San Jose, CA, Cal-Nev Ashley Abarca-Mitchell—On loan: Min. of Conference (First Vietnamese) FARMVILLE DISTRICT Comm. Outreach and Evangelism, Frank- Charles F. Baber Jr. (FD)—On loan: Minister lin First UMC, Tennessee Conference to Youth and Families, Highland UMC, (Main Street, Bedford) CHARLOTTESVILLE DISTRICT Raleigh, North Carolina Conference Dori Baker—Dir. of Spiritual Life/Chaplain, Christopher R. Donald—College Chaplain (Oakwood) Sweet Briar College, and Research Fellow, and Director of Religious Life, Millsaps George H. Donigian—On loan: Pastor, New Forum for Theological Exploration (Lane College (Crozet) Hope UMC, Anderson, SC, South Carolina Memorial) Barry Penn Hollar—Professor of Religion Conference (Jamieson Memorial) Ray A. Buchanan—Founder and Interna- and Philosophy, Shenandoah U. (Madi- Richard L. Meiser Jr.—Campus Minister/ tional President, Stop Hunger Now, Inc. son) Director, Wesley Foundation, Longwood (Bedford Circuit) Deborah E. Lewis—Director & Campus Min- and Hampden-Sydney (Antioch) ister, Wesley Foundation, UVA (Wesley T. McKennon Shea—Major Gifts Officer, Memorial) Duke Divinity School (Farmville) RICHMOND DISTRICT Thomas W. Sherrod—Director of Pastoral Marc D. Brown—Director of Connectional Care, Iredell Hospital, Statesville, N.C. Ministries, Virginia Conference (Trinity) (Mt. View) FREDERICKSBURG DISTRICT David E. Carl Jr.—Ex. Dir. of Spiritual Care & Adam James White—Chaplain, Director Robert A. Almy—Director, ChurchIngenuity. Education, Carolinas Health Care System, of Service Learning, and Religion Dept. Com (Fredericksburg) Charlotte, NC and On loan: Pastor, Big Chair, Virginia Episcopal School (Wesley Jarvis Bailey (PL)—Fredericksburg District Spring UMC, WNC Conference (River Rd.) Memorial) Program Director (Irvington) Allen E. Gunther Jr.—Battalion Command Teresa Signer Smith—Director, New Path- Chaplain, US Army (Skipwith) ways Ministries (New Hope) Lynda W. Harding—Clinic Manager/Chap- DANVILLE DISTRICT lain, Crossover Healthcare Ministry (New Brenda L. Rose—Pastoral Counselor, Song) Chrysalis Counseling and Consultation HARRISONBURG DISTRICT M. Jan Holton—Assistant Prof. of Pasto- Center, Inc. (Smith Memorial) Benjamin D. Burks—Executive Director, ral Care and Counseling, Yale Divinity Virginia Baptist Homes (Asbury) School (Reveille) Julie Ann Haushalter—Director, Lavender Stephen C. Hundley—On loan: Executive EASTERN SHORE DISTRICT Center for Education and Retreats (Vision Brenda Lee Laws (FD)—Case Manager, Intel- Director of Connectional Ministries, Cal- of Hope) lectual Disabilities Services, ESCSB Pac Conference (Corinth) Paul Ritter (PL)—Correctional Chaplain, Peter Surran (PD)—Fire Medic and Chaplain, Virginia A. Lee (FD)—Associate Professor of Augusta Correctional Center, Chap- Accomack County Fire Dept. and Eastern Christian Education and Dir. of Deacon lain Service Prison Ministry of VA, Inc., Shore Community College (Franktown) Studies, Garrett-Evangelical Seminary (Mountain Valley) (Reveille) Amy V. Lenow (FD)—Pastoral Counselor, VIPCARE (Trinity)
20 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 Meredith L. McNabb—Director, Center for Clergy Excellence, Virginia Conference DIACONAL, (Boulevard) Mark V. Ogren—Dir. Of Congregational Excellence, Virginia Conference (Duncan DEACONESS Memorial) Jinwook Oh (PD)—Director/Minister, Milal & HOME Mission (Shady Grove Short Pump) Nancy Robinson (FD)—Continuing Educa- tion Coordinator, Sierra Leone, Mission- MISSIONER ary, General Board of Global Ministries (Lakeside) ALEXANDRIA DISTRICT Kendra G. Swager—Chaplain, Randolph- Brenda Romenius (DC)—Director of Chris- Macon College tian Education, Saint John’s UMC (Saint Kathryn F. Talley—Deputy Exec. Dir., VA John’s) Supportive Housing (Centenary) Michelle Renee Thorne (PE)—On loan: Community UMC, Annapolis Southern DANVILLE DISTRICT Lynn Meeks (DM)—Rocky Mount UMC, Region, Baltimore-Washington Confer- Director of Music Ministries/Organist ence (Asbury Memorial) Elizabeth “Lisa” Nichols (DC)—Exec. Dir./ Joseph Torrence (FD)—Minister to Youth Church and Community Worker, Henry and Church Relations, UMFS (St. Mat- Fork Service Center (Redwood) thew’s) Dorothee Tripodi—Assoc. Dir. of Supervised Ministry and Vocational Planning, Union ELIZABETH RIVER DISTRICT Presbyterian Seminary (Westover Hills) Laarni S. Bibay (DC)—Children Health Ad- vocate/Medical Mission Project Coordi- nator, Tidewater Pediatrics, Portsmouth ROANOKE DISTRICT (Resurrection) Stephen Darr—Campus Ministry Dir., Com- Haniel Garibay (HM)—Cross Cultural Com- munity College Ministries (Blacksburg) mon Witness Coordinator, Methodist Bret-Ashton G. Gresham—Director/Campus Federation for Social Action (Resurrec- Minister, Wesley Foundation at VA Tech tion) (Blacksburg) Olma Eleanor Garibay Olay-May (DC)— Jeffrey C. Pugh—Professor of Religious Multi-Ministry Director, Resurrection Studies, Elon (South Roanoke) UMC (Resurrection) Anselma “Emma” Samson (DC)—Coordi- WINCHESTER DISTRICT nator for Leadership Development for B. Justin Allen—Dean of Spiritual Life and Church and Community, Resurrection Director of The Institute for Church UMC (Resurrection) Professions, Shenandoah University (Braddock Street) Rhonda VanDyke Colby—Vice-President FARMVILLE DISTRICT Diane W. Hassell (DC)—Leave of Absence for Student Life, Shenandoah University (Braddock Street) Joshua R. Orndorff (PE)—Chaplain, FREDERICKSBURG DISTRICT Randolph-Macon Academy (Riverton) Susan Lewandowski (DC)—GED Instruc- Sara E. Pugh Montgomery—On loan: Pastor, tor, Rappahannock Area Regional Adult Coweta First UMC, Muskogee District, OK Education (Fredericksburg) Conference (Braddock Street) Cynthia I. Zirlott (FD)—Protestant Chaplain, United Campus Ministry, Frostburg State University (Secondary appt.: Frostburg UMC; Charge Conference: First) YORK RIVER DISTRICT Koren B. Robins (PE)—Registrar, Duke Divin- ity School (Williamsburg)
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 21 DISCIPLESHIP CIRCLES
Equipped and Individual Trust Accountability Interdependent Spiritual and for Clergy and Lay Vitality Collaboration Effectiveness Leadership
22 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 CONNECTED DISCIPLESHIP CIRCLES ACCOUNTABLE
The Virginia Conference has held two Discipleship Circles facilitator training events, and more than 50 facilitators are SPIRIT-LED now equipped to help form Discipleship Circles.
iscipleship Circles are a new move- ment with a new purpose: new Dopportunities that will help leaders throughout the Virginia Conference sup- port each other spiritually, collaborate with each other for increased fruitfulness, and hold each other accountable for con- stant improvement. Actually, this is not a new movement, but a new commitment to live out the model of accountable discipleship offered to us by John Wesley: sharing our spiri- tual journeys to encourage us as we grow stronger in our obedience to Christ, dis- cerning God’s vision for our faith commu- nities, and joining the movement of the Holy Spirit to transform the world. Discipleship Circles, first and foremost, are about spiritual vitality – your own and within your local church. The practice of spiritual disciplines is the foundation for mutual support and accountability. The vitality of the local church will rise from this foundation as church leaders (clergy and laity) faithfully respond to Jesus’ call to make disciples. Through collaborative learning and strengthened partnerships in ministry, clergy and lay leaders will be energized and empowered to lead our churches into a new future of effective disciple making.
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VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 23 Discipleship Circles focus on rela- What are Vital Signs? CONNECTED tionship: relationship with God and The United Methodist Council of Bishops issued a “Call relationship with each other. Once to Action” in 2011 in response to research that indicated trust takes hold, the members will a lack of measures and accountability within The United begin to focus on tasks, effectively Methodist Church. The ultimate goal of the “Call to Ac- collaborating and sharing ideas. tion” is to help congregations faithfully respond to Jesus’ call to make disciples and increase vitality. Thus, the Vital “Accountability helps keep those willing to engage in Congregations initiative was born. Vital Congregations has it moving forward with Christ.” (Steven W. five areas of focus that are being prayerfully implemented Manskar, Accountable Discipleship: Liv- throughout The United Methodist Church through goal-set- ing in God’s Household, Discipleship ting at each local church and development of action plans Resources, 2000) Discipleship Circles to reach the vision of becoming a more vital and healthy will keep us accountable to one ACCOUNTABLE congregation. The data gathered in each area is appropri- another for our personal disciple- ately called “Vital Signs.” ship and for the work of Christ in ● Disciples worship – Worship attendance the world today through our faith communities. ● Disciples make new disciples – Individual professions of faith Discipleship Circles call each of us to ● open ourselves once again to receive Disciples engage in growing their faith – Participa- the power and gifts of the Holy Spirit. tion in small groups SPIRIT-LED Our work together through Discipleship ● Disciples engage in mission – Participation in service Circles calls us to greater sensitivity to and outreach God’s leading and allows the Spirit to work among us in worship and mission, ● Disciples give to mission – Giving toward mission evangelism and faith-sharing, stewardship and priorities growth. “All Things new – Equipping Vital Congregations” is the Virginia Conference initiative designed to implement the denomination’s Vital Congregations measurement system Who are Discipleship Circles for? in a way that promotes collaboration, support and contin- ued improvement among all conference churches. Discipleship Circles are a resource for church leaders (clergy and laity) who want to draw closer to God through collaboration with peers for spiritual growth, relationship How are Discipleship Circles formed? and learning. There are many ways for a Discipleship Circle to form. Discipleship Circles involve: Church leaders (clergy and laity) may decide to: ● Individual commitment to personal spiritual develop- ment and to a group practice of accountable dis- ● Find others with common interests in their local cipleship in order to grow as disciples. area, between districts, or within same size church categories. ● Willingness to enter into a new level of trust and collaboration: clergy and laity partnerships in minis- ● Work with others who have proven successes in a try and church-to-church interaction centered upon particular area of focus. earnest prayer, spiritual renewal and supportive ● Work with specific other church leaders. relationships. ● Accept an invitation from a District Superintendent ● Sharing of local church data through fact-based dis- or Conference ministry area. cussions around each church’s Vital Signs and mutual accountability for work toward established goals to ● Morph a current group into a Discipleship Circle. better equip the church in making disciples. ... all with spiritual vitality at the core.
24 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 Exploratory Meeting
Commit? no yes Discipleship Circle Stages
Formation Connection Holy Ending Stage Stage Stage What are characteristics of a (4-6 meetings) (as long as you like) (1-2 meetings) Discipleship Circle?
● Membership is a mixture of clergy and laity. How do Discipleship Circles work? ● A Discipleship Circle will have at least six and no more than 12 members. The first stage will be FORMATION of the Discipleship ● Members commit to the disciplines and practices of Circle. Facilitation can be provided in these first four to six Discipleship Circles. meetings to assist participants in: ● Members must be willing to hear, share and encour- ● Forming relationships founded upon trust and mutual age one another. respect for one another. ● Developing and practicing individual and corporate What covenants are made by spiritual disciplines. participants? ● Learning and practicing communication and decision- making skills to assist the Circle in its work. There are core areas of covenant for Discipleship Circles which will provide a spiritual, safe and fruitful environ- ● Determining meeting times and place. ment. Individual Circles may decide as a group to add to this list. CONNECTION will be the focus of the second stage. This will be the period of time, with the length to be de- ● Daily spiritual practice of each person’s choice cided upon by the group, during which collaborative learn- focused around a spiritual accountability question ing and visioning take place around a shared area of focus discerned by the Discipleship Circle. As an example, related to Vital Signs. members of the Circle may adopt Bishop Young Jin Cho’s “Covenant for Spiritual Discipline” and engage ● Shared leadership will be practiced. “one hour daily” in spiritual disciplines. ● ● Commitment to the local church and its vitality. Data gathered from Vital Signs will be shared and discussed. ● Commitment to work within the purpose and struc- ● ture of Discipleship Circles. Collaboration and mutual accountability are learned and practiced. ● Presence, participation and attentiveness with the group. In the HOLY ENDING stage, ● Confidentiality of personal information. ● Preparation and reflection throughout the time be- ● Readiness to end the Discipleship Circle is collec- tween meetings. tively discerned. ● Encouragement of one another and unusual ideas. ● A concluding worship service is designed and con- ducted. ● The life of the Discipleship Circle is celebrated. ● A re-commitment to being attentive to God, to cre- ation, to one another and to the vitality of congrega- tions is made.
For more information, visit www.vaumc.org/disciple- shipcircles or contact the Virginia Conference Center for Lay Leadership Excellence at 1-800-768-6040 or (804) 521-1154 or [email protected].
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 25 John Wesley’s self-examination questions help Discipleship Circle grow in faith By Beth Christian
eing one of the first Discipleship Circles, our group are. We have grown because we are willing to respond to wrestled with several questions. What should our the admissions of our peers, and it has allowed all of us to Bmeetings look like? How often should we meet? grow in our faith. What should we talk about? While we were all excited to A few have struggled with how these discussions will start something new and very different in our conference, really make a difference in our own churches and, in all we had no idea how to begin the work of this new cov- honesty, it will take some time for a trickle-down effect. enant type group. Our initial meeting was a small group of But a lay person in the group recently admitted that she people brought together from an invitation by our district had no idea the obstacles and dissention that clergy face superintendent. We are a group of seven people, both within their own congregations. It is clear that church laity and clergy, representing six churches in the Staunton work is not always easy and it sometimes gets messy. District. In response, clergy in our group shared that they have Everyone felt that it was important to begin our time been inspired by some of the thoughts, ideas and actions in prayer and by celebrating the Eucharist. Doing so helped of the laity. We have seen where we are united through separate this time from all of our worldly obligations. Christ and that we shouldn’t remain tucked away in our Through serving each other communion, we are reminded own ministry bubbles within our own churches. We are a of our connection through Jesus Christ. connectional church and have much to gain by listening to When it came time to figure out which topic or theme each other and holding up each other’s ministries. we wanted to pursue as a group, we included social justice Our group has met once a month for over a year. We issues, local missional needs, church attendance decline will conclude our Discipleship Circle in August. Some have and personal faith development. We found we needed already expressed sadness that the group will end because to have a group where we could safely articulate our it is the first time they have had sincere discussions about thoughts and feelings and receive feedback so that we faith outside of a local church small group. I believe a few could be better leaders within our own churches. of us will find ourselves in a new Discipleship Circle where After reviewing several books and other resources, we we will continue to grow with others in our walk with decided we would spend our time together going through Christ. John Wesley’s self-examination questions randomly: Do – Beth Christian is director of Congregational Resources I pray about the money I spend? How is it with my soul? for the Staunton District Do I harbor any ill will toward others? etc. Every month we face a question or two that we cannot prepare for and we, therefore, allow the Spirit to move in us while we wrestle A Discipleship Circle in the Staunton District includes, left to right, Rev. Clayton Payne, Beth Christian, Rev. Taylor Mertins, Angie Nash and Pastor Rob Nash. with the questions. Everyone takes a turn answering, and Not pictured are Pastor John Benson and Chris Pettyjohn. then we have a brief discussion on how this can affect us personally and our influence on those around us. We have benefited from this practice on a number of levels, but two of the greatest gifts are: 1) We get to respond honestly about our faith. There is a sincere trust that has developed within our group. Sometimes we share things that we have not shared with anyone else. Speak- ing these truthful thoughts and feelings out loud allows us to admit to ourselves where we have fallen short of God’s glory and begin working toward a better understanding of how we can follow Christ today. 2) We hear advice and reflective thoughts from our trusted brothers and sisters. Whatever we wrestle with as individuals is respected and addressed by others in the group. They act as a mirror so we can really hear and understand who and where we
26 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 Did You Know? (Over 30 facts about Discipleship Circles)
1. Spiritual growth is a key component of Discipleship work of Discipleship Circles so that our churches are Circles. renewed. 2. There are more than 50 clergy and laity trained to 18. Like Class Meetings of early Methodism, Discipleship Circle facilitate Discipleship Circles throughout the Virginia meetings begin with a spiritual accountability question Conference. discerned by the group, such as “How is it with your 3. A Discipleship Circle consists of six to 12 clergy and laity soul?” or adopting Bishop Cho’s Covenant for Spiritual Discipline and engage “one hour daily” in spiritual from various churches. disciplines. 4. Facilitators eventually leave the Circle so that shared Unlike Class Meetings of early Methodism, Discipleship leadership may develop. 19. Circles are not required. 5. The growth of the Discipleship Circles movement has been A four-minute award-winning Discipleship Circles described as a “gentle rain.” 20. video is available on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ 6. Discipleship Circles were created by the Bishop’s Steering DiscipleshipCircles and the conference website at www. Team for implementing “All Things New—Equipping Vital vaumc.org/discipleshipcircles. Congregations.” 21. A Discipleship Circles brochure is available on the 7. “All Thinks New—Equipping Vital Congregations” is a conference website. Virginia Conference initiative designed to implement 22. A PowerPoint presentation on “All Things New—EVC” is the denomination’s Vital Congregations measurement available on the conference website at www.vaumc.org/ system in a way that promotes collaboration, support and discipleshipcircles. continued improvement among all conference churches. 23. A comprehensive Training Manual is provided for The Bishop’s Steering Team, named by Bishop Charlene 8. facilitators. Kammerer and continued under Bishop Young Jin Cho, included seven work teams made up of more than 75 24. There are currently five Discipleship Circles meeting and clergy and laity from across the Virginia Conference. several others planning to meet soon. 9. These work teams met to discern, organize, design and 25. The goal of Discipleship Circles is to tap into the power of resource implementation of a systemic response to the the Holy Spirit for growth in spirituality, connections and denomination’s Vital Congregations initiative. disciple-making. 10. The Design Team worked for approximately 18 months 26. Discipleship Circles stages include a “Holy Ending” to be to design a Spirit-led approach to connection and determined by the group. accountability through Discipleship Circles. 27. New Circles are currently forming in the Eastern Shore 11. Implementation Team members continue working to train District with “Race Relations” as the area of focus. facilitators and assist in formation of new Discipleship 28. The ultimate goal of Discipleship Circles is a refocused Circles. commitment to help local churches “make disciples of 12. The Prayer Team continues to meet and pray for Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.” the Discipleship Circles movement and the Virginia 29. Visit the Discipleship Circle Facebook page at www. Conference. facebook.com/DiscipleshipCircles for a list of possible 13. The next facilitator training event is planned for late topics and “like” the page to receive regular updates. summer or early fall of 2015. 30. For information regarding available facilitators, how you 14. Discipleship Circles are designed to meet at least every can begin a Discipleship Circle, or leading your existing other week. Circle to fruitfulness, contact Cheryl Edley-Worford at [email protected] or 1-800-768-6040 or 15. Discipleship Circles goals towards Equipping Vital (804) 521-1154. Congregations directly relate to goals of the 5 Talent Academy. 31. For more information about Discipleship Circles, visit the Discipleship Circles Facebook page at www.facebook. 16. Circle members choose an “Area of Focus” (topic) that can com/DiscipleshipCircles or the Virginia Conference website be related to one or more of the Vital Signs: worship, small at www.vaumc.org/discipleshipcircles or contact the groups, professions of faith, outreach and mission giving. Virginia Conference Center for Lay Leadership Excellence 17. The Prayer Team is praying for a “Breakthrough” in the at [email protected].
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 27 Discipleship Circles provide tool for church leaders to live out accountable discipleship
By Larry Davies So, what would help us face our reality in a way that offers no quick fixes but opens he 2012 United Methodist Book of Discipline describes ourselves to honest sharing of the challenges one duty of the district superintendent as chief mis- we face and enables us to work together to Tsion strategist of the district. Chief mission strategist discover spirit-filled answers? is an especially tough assignment when The United Meth- odist Church is declining nationwide. Increasingly, aging Since 2012, the Bishop’s Task Force on All Things New- members face the difficulty of reaching younger families Equipping Vital Congregations, made up of clergy and who are less likely than ever to attend the churches of lay leaders throughout the conference, has prayerfully their parents. searched for answers as they apply toward our mission: To The role of chief mission strategist calls for a willingness make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the to somehow provide creative leadership in the midst of the world. rapidly changing cultural reality. In his book Seven Levers, Using five key indicators, we asked first, how could we Bishop Robert Schnase writes about three leadership strat- provide realistic and relevant data in order to guide our egies that don’t help: decision making as mission strategists and leaders of the church. Those five indicators are: ● “All is in God’s hands.” This puts everything on God and leaves no role for us. We were meant to be in- 1. Disciples worship volved in the work of God. 2. Disciples make new disciples ● “Analysis, Statistics, Metrics.” These may be excel- lent tools, but metrics alone will not fix what ails us. 3. Disciples grow their faith ● “Purveyor of despair.” Fostering a constant sense 4. Disciples engage in mission of calamity defeats the spirit. This can leave people paralyzed and feeling helpless. 5. Disciples share their resources for mission
Accurate and timely data provides realistic and honest measurements of church vitality. The question then be- comes: How can we use the measurements in a way that provides an atmosphere of improvement and encourage- ment instead of judgment? How can a district superinten- dent as chief missional strategist provide leadership that will help our churches increase fruitfulness and hold each other accountable for constant improvement? Discipleship Circles were prayerfully designed to pro- vide a tool for district superintendents, pastors and other church leaders to live out the model of accountable discipleship offered to us by John Wesley. The key is a commitment to spiritual growth, honest collaboration with others and a willingness to hold each other accountable in The North Accomack Discipleship Circle on the Eastern Shore includes, left to right, the Rev. Don Jamison, facilitator; Robin Lewers, Atlantic UMC; the Rev. working toward established goals. Gary Miller, St. John’s UMC; Vicky Ward-Wharton, St. John’s UMC; Joslyn King, First, Discipleship Circles are about connection, with God St. John’s UMC; the Rev. Don Blagg, Oak Hall Charge; Larry Thornton, Downings and with each other. Second, Discipleship Circles will keep UMC; Milton Christian, Friendship UMC; and the Rev. Barbara Cousar, Horntown us accountable to one another and to God. Third, Disciple- Charge. Not pictured are the Rev. Rebecca McGee, Atlantic-New Church Charge; ship Circles call for us to open ourselves to the movement the Rev. Derek Tomek, Greenbackville Charge; Debbie Staufenberg, Union UMC; and Alice Conquest, Friendship UMC. of the Holy Spirit to work among us.
28 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 More than 50 facilitators have been trained at Discipleship Circles facilitator training events and are now equipped to assist in formation of Discipleship Circles.
What makes a Discipleship Circle unique? “The discussions went well and have spawned two Dis- The members of the circle are usually from two or more cipleship Circles. Both are a collection of Anglo and African- churches sharing and working together. They are a mixture American congregations with laity and clergy participating. of clergy and laity. Members of the circle must be willing to The first group has been meeting in the formation phase hear, share and encourage one another. where they are learning about spiritual disciplines and the Over the last few months, Cheryl Edley-Worford, Virginia idea of inviting God into the discussion first. The group is Conference director of Inclusivity and Lay Leadership Excel- very receptive to this idea and has embraced the idea of lence, provided two Discipleship Circles facilitator train- sharing sacraments at each gathering, at being in various ing events which resulted in over 50 trained facilitators types of spiritual discipline and being in prayer between equipped to assist in the formation of Discipleship Circles. sessions in order to ask God what we should do.” Beta groups formed in 2014 continue to meet and assist There are many ways for Discipleship Circles to form in the development and implementation of Discipleship whether the issue is improved race relations, increasing Circles. worship attendance or improving missional outreach to the Rev. Alex Joyner, Eastern Shore District superintendent, poor. used Discipleship Circles to provide a setting for conversa- As a district superintendent and chief missional strate- tion around race relations. gist, I see the formation of Discipleship Circles as an invalu- “Discipleship Circles are being used to explore ques- able tool that will help our Lynchburg District explore any tions of race and how churches can be a witness to the important issue involving church vitality in an atmosphere gospel in the midst of tension,” Joyner said. “Following a of trust and mutual accountability. Through a commitment fall in which the issue of race and policing arose across to spiritual growth, increasing relationship and trust, work- the country and in the aftermath of some racially-charged ing in collaboration and mutual accountability to better events on the Shore, clergy from the district met to have equip the church in making disciples of Jesus Christ for the some holy conversation. The gatherings used a Discipleship transformation of the world. Circle format of spiritual disciplines and invitational sharing. For more information about Equipping Vital Congrega- The conversation has been expanded to include laity and tions and Discipleship Circles go to www.vaumc.org/ now is meeting in two circles. A second group is exploring discipleshipcircles. For information on how to form your the creation of a second circle in the southern end of the own Discipleship Circle, contact Cheryl Edley-Worford at Shore.” [email protected]. “There are deep issues here on the Shore surrounding – The Rev. Larry Davies is Lynchburg District superintendent and chair of challenges of diversity and race,” said the Rev. Don Jamison, the All Things New-Equipping Vital Congregations Bishop’s Steering Team a facilitator for Discipleship Circles on the Eastern Shore,
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 29 Lynchburg. Most of our circle dances were repetitive, long- It’s All Coming Together: lasting and meditative—helping participants experience the presence of the Holy Spirit and thus feel closer to God and Discipleship Circles each other. Discipleship Circles involve a similar process by Cheryl Edley-Worford and outcome—joining together in Circles in order to create a Spirit-led ‘dance’ of harmony with the Holy Spirit, one f you could benefit from a growth spurt in the areas another and God’s will for our lives and our churches. of spiritual life, partnerships in ministry and effective Discipleship Circles, like the latest dances, can be de- Idisciple-making, a Discipleship Circle may be just where scribed as a “new movement.” However, our Discipleship the Spirit is leading you. Circles are actually based on John Wesley’s Class Meetings Imagine collaborating with fellow church leaders (clergy of the early Methodist movement. These class meetings and laity from various churches) in a small group focused contributed to the explosive growth of Methodism across on a particular area of ministry as you intentionally seek the United States. My hope is that the addition of Disciple- God’s guidance regarding spiritual growth and church ship Circles as a “new movement” in the Vital Congrega- vitality. Imagine establishing trusting, supportive relation- tions “dance” already in progress in the Virginia Conference ships as your Circle taps into the transformative power of will provide another important step towards completing the Holy Spirit in order to help steer members’ lives and the challenging and sometimes puzzling dance called churches to greater fruitfulness. church revitalization. In Discipleship Circles, church leaders grow closer to God Discipleship Circles are now forming within our districts and to each other through spiritual disciplines, supportive offering a unique twist on small groups. Like early class collaboration, mutual learning and accountability related meetings, Discipleship Circles focus on the “state of our to church vitality. Because church renewal begins with souls” through a spiritual accountability question chosen personal renewal, personal growth between an by the group—yet, these Circles go beyond the purpose of individual and Christ provides a a class meeting. Trusting relationships and mutual sup- first step towards church re- port represent key components of Discipleship Circles, yet vitalization. Strengthened these Circles go beyond the mission of a support group. relationships with God and While Circle members hold each other accountable for ef- fellow church leaders help fective disciple-making, Discipleship Circles go beyond the equip participants and their work of typical accountability groups. Discipleship Circles churches to grow in spiritual are designed to first ignite us spiritually so that we grow vitality and accountability in relationship to God and each other and become more through Discipleship Circles. equipped to lead our churches in fulfilling The Great Com- My Introduction to mission to make disciples and transform the world. Circle Dancing oc- What might this effort to equip our churches in making curred years ago disciples look like? Imagine a Discipleship Circle focused when I joined The on strengthening older adult ministries by working to help Sacred Dance En- connect residents of Virginia United Methodist Homes semble of Cen- with nearby churches of the Virginia Conference. Imagine a tral Virginia in Discipleship Circle addressing race relations on the Eastern Shore or equipping youth ministries in Staunton. Does your church seek help in equipping youth ministry, small groups, vital worship, mission work, evangelism? These are a few of the many possibilities for exploration and study in a Discipleship Circle with the ultimate goal of increasing spiri- tual vitality through prayer and other spiritual disciplines
Cheryl Edley-Worford (left), conference director of Inclusivity and Lay Leader- ship Excellence, leads a training session for Discipleship Circle facilitators.
30 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 and increasing fruitfulness through collaborative learning and sharing. Including spiritual disciplines in During the recent Bishop’s Convocation on prayer, I Discipleship Circles improves discussion was intrigued by the teaching on prayer walks and break- through prayer—described as praying for a miracle. The By Don Jamison Prayer Team (often seen walking the halls of the Virginia t has been my honor over the last two years to be part United Methodist Center seeking prayer requests and of- of the implementation team and facilitator for Disciple- fering prayers) has held the Discipleship Circles movement Iship Circles. As part of that team it was rewarding to in prayer since its conception and continues to pray for listen and interact with others who truly want to see a breakthrough of the Holy Spirit so that our lives, churches, revitalization of the local church at every level within our communities and world might be transformed. conference. As Discipleship Circles form throughout the Virginia My own experience with Discipleship Circles has been Conference, I ask that your breakthrough prayers be with formulated in that the implementation team used the the Discipleship Circles movement as we work to increase format to conduct every meeting we had as well as trying spiritual vitality, establish trust and true collaboration, and new things to see what might work and ultimately what remain accountable for effectiveness resulting in equipped needed to happen to make it successful. Not all of our ideas bore fruit, but we tried to ensure that when groups and interdependent clergy and lay leadership within all began the process their efforts might be fruitful. churches of the Virginia Conference. I have also been involved with several groups enquiring – Cheryl Edley-Worford is conference director of about or beginning Discipleship Circles. The folks involved Inclusivity and Lay Leadership Excellence with these groups truly desire to invite God in as they work through Vital Congregations challenges that face us all. What I have found to be true is that having spiritual disciplines as part of the discussion opens up new ways of Discipleship Circles (Continued on page 33, “Circles”) A place where... Each participant is first attentive to his/her relationship with God. Discipleship Circle disciplines focus on personal spiritual development and vitality.
Participants are committed to developing relationship with each other –– resulting in shared trust. Discipleship Circles disciplines facilitate relationship development. Personal Spiritual
T Vitality Participants utilize data to inform reality. They work r R t g together and openly share experiences to help each u e s n e l u i other become more effective leaders in the church. C a Tr rn o tio d a Discipleship Circle disciplines create a mandate for ll nship an e true collaboration. ab l L o ua E rat ut ff ion and M s) ec es tiv ln enes ruitfu The outcome of spiritual vitality, relationship s (F formation and collaboration is increased fruitfulness of the WHOLE.
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 31 The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA ter of Youth, Young Adults resulting (currently) in Paulo Lopes named and Family Life Center Min- 11 partnerships called istries at Surfside UMC in “Kingdom Stations.” director of Ministries with Surfside Beach, S.C. In this v Co-Founder/Executive ministry, he has developed Director of Bridge Inter- Young People an evangelism and disciple- national in response to ship pathway to establish needs of the Brazilian . Paulo Lopes has been campus, young adults and Methodist Church. Led selected as Virginia Con- family ministries. He has the organization from Jference director of Minis- launched an E-group (evan- its founding (board tries with Young People. He gelistic small group) initia- member recruitment, will begin his duties Aug. 1. tive and has built a youth mission, vision, accredi- “Paulo is a gifted inspi- leadership team to transi- tation, etc.) to ministry rational leader who has a tion to a model targeting fulfillment. Developed demonstrated ability to families. He also leads a partnerships ben- motivate, influence and mid-week contemporary efiting more than 500 structure transformational worship service. children living below change,” said Marc Brown, A native of Brazil, he poverty level, three director of Connectional has lived in both Brazil and evangelistic outreach Ministries. “His ministry the United States, and his programs, rehabilitation experience and his ability ministry experiences span center, orphanage and to envision a conference both countries. Among his conference-wide holistic ministry of disciple-making ministry experiences are: outreach ministry. systems for young people v Training as a Leader- v were primary reasons Paulo The Inner City Devel- ship Coach with Spiritual opment Project. Co- was invited to this crucial Leadership, Inc. (SLI) and staff position.” initiated conversations J. Paulo Lopes is the new director of co-leading leadership in- between Asbury Theo- Ministries with Young People. Lopes is currently minis- cubators. Training areas logical Seminary and include spiritual leader- ministry leaders in Lex- ship, coaching, change ington to find ways for leadership and ministry the seminary to become team development. more involved in the v Director of International Lexington community. Partnerships for Bridge Organized a colloquium International – Life En- for ministry leaders and richment Institute. student representatives v Trained and led sev- to build relationships eral mission teams and develop partner- to Brazil focused on ships. ministry to families v The Acts Movement. Co- in poverty. Developed founded a young adult long-term partnerships Christian movement with numerous projects to advocate for social including the construc- justice in Curitiba, Brazil. tion of an orphan- At its peak more than age and an economic 500 young adults and development project in youths from more than a small fishing com- 20 denominations were munity. Co-developed a mobilized. model for partnerships with American churches
32 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 Lopes graduated with a (“Circles,” continued from page 31) personal agendas. Disciple- BA in International Rela- ship Circles are not meant tions from UniCurtiba in of thinking, causes us to to replace valid ministries 2006, studied Intercultural look at issues with God in already in place, but rather Studies at Asbury Theo- mind and creates an atmo- to enhance our ability to logical Seminary and is cur- sphere where we enter into discuss issues and chal- rently pursuing a Master of a sacred space during those lenges we face. Discipleship Arts for Christian Ministry discussions that assures all Circles are meant to foster at Crown College. the participants receive the collegial relationships “I am both excited compassion and love God among churches within and humbled to join the requires of us. a geographic region and Virginia Conference team as Much discussion about enhance the role of both director of Ministries with Discipleship Circles has clergy and laity in those Young People,” Lopes said. filtered across the confer- discussions. Cooperative “I’m excited because God ence at this point. Some relationships are a goal of is clearly up to something has been good; some has Discipleship Circles. Spiri- new in this conference, been less than positive; tual renewal is a goal of and because anytime God some has been misinfor- Discipleship Circles. Allow- moves God seems to take mation. Discipleship Circles ing the Holy Spirit to work great pleasure in using are meant to answer the within the Body of Christ young people as powerful proclamation of Bishop Cho and provide guidance is a catalysts for God’s work. that no church vitality can goal of Discipleship Circles. I’m also humbled that the happen without spiritual vi- I look forward to fa- Lord would allow someone tality. I believe this to be a cilitating more Circles and like me to be in ministry foundational building block enjoying the conversations with such a great group of of Discipleship Circles. that will come out of put- staff and leaders. What a Discipleship Circles are ting God first, developing privilege it is to be called meant to be a place where our spiritual disciplines and for such a time as this! My three or four churches can tackling the hard challeng- family and I look forward come together to discuss es of Vital Congregations to meeting everyone and an issue or focus generated as we move toward church serving with you.” out of Vital Congregations. revitalization. As director of Ministries On the Eastern Shore, we – Rev. Don Jamison is incoming with Young People, Lopes have several groups focus- chair of the Virginia Conference Board of Discipleship will provide oversight for ing on the issue of race conference children, youth, relations. Other groups young adult and campus are dealing with women’s ministries including the Re- challenges in ministry, and gional Schools of Children I am aware of an interest in Ministries, All God’s Children youth ministries as a focal Camps, Conference Council point. on Youth Ministries, Confer- Discipleship circles are ence Young Adult Council designed to put us in a and Board of Higher Educa- spiritual place, a safe sanc- tion and Campus Ministries. tuary where discussion can Lopes is fluent in Portu- happen and the Holy Spirit guese and English and has can work through the Body basic conversational and of Christ. Discipleship Circles reading fluency in Span- are not accountability ish and German. He and groups, nor are they gripe his wife, Juliana, have three sessions or places to voice daughters (ages 7, 5 and 3).
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 33 DISCIPLES HELPING TO TRANSFORM THE WORLD the deck outside. Inside, the team mudded, sanded and painted. Danny’s son kept telling the Rev. Nathan Decker how grateful he was that folks like us would help out, especially since he is so far away (he lives in Georgia). While we didn’t get to finish it all, we can tell we were a part of God’s grace building a Kingdom of peace, justice and mercy in a broken world.
▲ On April 13, to commemorate the The James River District recently 150th anniversary of United Method- sent a United Methodist Volunteers In
ist Women, the women of Bethany Mission (UMVIM) team to North Caro- UMC in Forest, Lynchburg District, lina to help rehab and rebuild homes▲ planted “Vivian’s Roses.” The roses are destroyed by last year’s tornadoes. named for Vivian Wilson Overstreet, ▲ Scott Phillips, a member of Main a dedicated member of years gone Street UMC, South Boston, Farm- by who always stood at the church ville District, dedicated his race car to door on Mother’s Day with her basket his church by having the hood painted of roses. Carol Lee had each member with the United Methodist cross and bring soil from her home. Vivian’s roses flame and the name of the church. were dug up at the home of Edith O. Scott races at the South Boston Shelton and Betty H. Arrington. As all Speedway and is an active member of gathered around the garden in front of the Main Street congregation. the church, 100-year-old Ralphine Cof- fey Overstreet and 94-year-old Annice Martin Williams shoveled and graveled Pictured are Debbie Reckart, Angie the soil to plant the roses to assure Reckart, Brenda Chandler, Iris Hoye, that Bethany UMW will create a legacy Jaylen Pumphrey, Nathan Decker, of spirit to continue to put faith, hope Elijah Decker and Ethan Decker from and love into action for women, chil- Ivey Memorial UMC; and David and dren and youth. The poem, “Vivian, Linda Roane from Matoaca UMC. Our Sister in Christ,” was written by At one location the team assisted Edward M. Hawkins, c. 1950: in plumbing, insulating and decking Now that Vivian has gone to rest, Leon’s home. Leon, an elderly gentle- In our memory’s eye we can see her man, was there each day telling us the best, story of his and his families homes. As she stood by the threshold of God’s Out of 11 houses on that street, only ▲ On April 19, members of Main Holy Place, one was left standing. While everyone Street UMC, Suffolk, hosted a Home- With a basket of roses and a smile was home and all the homes had to coming event. Former Pastor Bob on her face, be rebuilt, no one was hurt. Leon said Parks was guest preacher, and more “Wear a rose for your mother,” she “thank you,” so many times we were than 300 people attended. Main Street would softly say, embarrassed. At Danny’s house, the is in the middle of a two-year celebra- As she gave us her roses on other work site, the team finished a tion commemorating 215 years of Mother’s Day. deck and helped level the dirt under ministry in Suffolk and 100 years in
34 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 To have your church or church organization featured in the “Disciples helping to transform the world” section, e-mail your story and photos to [email protected] by the first of the month. Stories should be approximately 100 words, and photos should be 300 dpi jpgs.
service, there is at least one waiter for every two guests. After dinner, the widows are each given a gift bag and one of the flow- ers that adorned the dining tables. The widows say they look forward to its present sanctuary. Several other ▲ this event each year, and committee events will be held until the culmina- members say they are truly blessed by tion in June 2016. being allowed to provide this service (pictured bottom left) The Rev. to such a wonderful group of ladies. Myrtle Frances Hatcher and the Rev. Bob Parks 1800 baskets. 180 minutes. 1800 dollars. These were the goals for our Free-Throw-a-thon to benefit Imagine No Malaria. In the middle of March Madness, the youths at Skipwith UMC, Richmond, led the way on this ▲ The Fellowship Committee at Leb- active, fun project to promote aware- anon UMC in Dinwiddie County re- ness and raise money. cently hosted its 13th annual Widow’s On Saturday, March 21, kids from Night Out event, a special dinner for 8 to 80 shot baskets in the parking lot, about 12 widows who are members of baked goods were sold outside fellow- the three churches that made up the ship hall, and chili cooked in a giant former Dinwiddie Charge. The event pot near the front. All kinds of folks starts with special entertainment, and stopped by to buy chili and baked then participants are treated to a fine goods, and to shoot a few baskets. dining experience with china, crystal, Our small church, led by the nice napkins and tablecloths, fresh youth, met the goal and ultimately
flowers, candlelight and personal raised $2,417.96 for Imagine No Ma- ▲ For Lent, Great Falls UMC, attention from the waiters (men of laria, raised awareness, and had fun▲ Arlington District, borrowed an idea the church dressed in white shirts and together fulfilling God’s purpose. from the Holy Name of Mary Catholic black pants). To ensure high quality Church in New York. A cross was con- structed, and each Sunday Pastor De- nise Childers invited the congregation to write their prayers on small purple crosses and pin them to the cross. By Palm Sunday, there were more than 500 prayers on the cross. The cross was draped in white on Easter Sunday, and the prayer crosses were placed in a bowl at the base of the cross. This focus on prayer created a connection within our congregation and started a meaningful tradition for our church.
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 35 EVENTS
July hands-on missions in the Richmond area. Participants have the option of early-bird registration which includes three on-site mission opportunities or regular registration which Small Membership Congregation Pastors-Only includes two on-site mission opportunities. For more infor- Training Day mation, contact MaryKaye Cochran at (804) 639-8872 July 11, Virginia United Methodist Assembly Center, or [email protected] or go to the conference Blackstone website, www.vaumc.org, click on “Conference Calendar” All Virginia Conference pastors of small congregations and the date. (fewer than 150 in worship) are invited to a training event specifically designed around opportunities and challenges Mission Encounter of the small congregation. This event will be 9:30 a.m. to July 24-26, Virginia United Methodist Assembly 4 p.m. Saturday, July 11, at the Virginia United Methodist Center, Blackstone Assembly Center in Blackstone. Dr. Lew Parks, professor Mission Encounter is an opportunity for clergy and laity, in- at Wesley Theological Seminary who has specific interest cluding men, women and youths, to learn about being part- in the small congregation, will be featured speaker. Bishop ners in God’s global mission and to grow spiritually through Cho will lead worship to close the day. Cost is $25 and in- study and worship. Participants may attend one of three cludes lunch. 0.5 CEU will be offered. Registration deadline workshops: Geographic study on “Latin America;” Spiritual is July 1. Register at VAUMC.org/SMC-Training or go to the Growth study on “Created for Happiness;” or Issue study conference website, www.vaumc.org, click on “Confer- on “The Church and People with Disabilities.” For registra- ence Calendar” and the date. tion questions, call JoAnn Liskey at (540) 434-2997. For scholarship information, call Nancy Yarborough at (757) Helping Hands 877-2155. For more information, go to the conference July 16-17, Christ UMC, Staunton website, www.vaumc.org, click on “Conference Calendar” This exciting two-day mission experience is for rising 4th and the date. through 6th graders, parents and adult leaders of all mem- ber churches of the Virginia Conference. Come and learn about mission opportunities and the importance of being September a caring Christian. Cost is $36 per person which includes School for Children’s Ministries t-shirt, meals, snacks and overnight stay. Participants will Sept. 12, Timberlake UMC, Lynchburg sleep on the floor and will not have shower facilities. The School for Children’s Ministries is on the road again Registration deadline is June 10. For more information, featuring the same school at four different locations on contact Beth Christian at (540) 932-1055 or bethchris- four different dates. The second will be 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. [email protected]. Or go to the conference website, www. Saturday, Sept. 12, at Timberlake UMC, 21649 Timberlake vaumc.org, click on “Conference Calendar” and the date. Rd., Lynchburg. Learn “Extraordinary Lessons from Ordinary Objects” plus three more workshops. A .5 CEU offered. LAUNCH: Explore Your Call to Ministry Only $20 per person. For more information and to register July 20-22, Shenandoah University, Winchester online, go to the conference website, www.vaumc.org, The office of Spiritual Life at Shenandoah University and click on “Conference Calendar” and the date. the Virginia Conference Board of Ordained Ministry invite rising high school sophomores, juniors and seniors to ex- Goodson Preaching Academy plore their calls to ministry while discovering their spiri- Sept. 21-24, Virginia United Methodist Assembly Center, tual gifts from God. Participants live on the Shenandoah Blackstone University campus and meals are provided. Cost is $50. For The Bishops’ Foundation will sponsor the 2015 Goodson more information, contact the Rev. Dr. Justin Allen, dean Preaching Academy, “Craft and Creativity: Preaching in the of Spiritual Life at Shenandoah University, at jallen3@ Context of a Rapidly Evolving World,” Sept. 21-24 at the su.edu or [email protected]. Or go to the conference Virginia United Methodist Assembly Center in Blackstone. website, www.vaumc.org, click on “Conference Calendar” Presenter will be Dr. Paul Scott Wilson, professor of Homi- and the date. letics at Emmanuel College, Toronto, author of many books on preaching and past president of the Academy of Homi- Helping Hands letics. This ministry venture for clergy seeking excellence in July 23-24, Woodlake UMC, Midlothian the craft of weekly preaching was modeled after the former This event gives rising 4th-6th graders the opportunity to do Goodson Academy for Preaching and approved by the
36 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 Bishops’ Foundation which is assuming most of the costs of the event. The event is designed to energize your preaching and help you find creative ways to build disciples in your church. 1 CEU will be awarded. For more information and to register, go to the conference website, www.vaumc.org, click on “Conference Calendar” and the date.
October
Five Day Academy for Spiritual Formation Oct. 4-9, Roslyn Retreat Center, Richmond The Five Day Academy for Spiritual Formation is a pro- gram of Upper Room Ministries, providing an opportunity for clergy and laity to deepen their relationship with God through a daily rhythm of prayer, worship, learning and reflection. Each day will include teaching by Dr. Robert Mul- holland and Dr. Roberta Bondi. It will also include periods of silence, morning and evening prayer, Eucharist, covenant groups and community time. Focus of this academy is Sa- cred Journey: Shaped by the Spirit. A $100 non-refundable registration fee is required to reserve your academy space by July 25. This amount will be applied to your total cost. Early registration is recommended as space is limited. For more information and to register, go to the conference website, www.vaumc.org, click on “Conference Calendar” and the date. Be equipped to answer Annual ARMS Retreat Oct. 7-8, Virginia United Methodist Assembly Center, God’s call on your life. Blackstone “Journey of a Lifetime” will be the theme of the Association of Retired Ministers and Spouses (ARMS) annual retreat Oct. Wesley Theological Seminary. 7-8 at Virginia United Methodist Assembly Center in Black- stone. Dr. Joseph Eldridge, chaplain at American University, will speak on “Looking Back/Looking Forward: Viewing Jus- Offering customizable master tice Inter-Generationally.” Dr. Kenneth Patrick, chaplain at of divinity and master of arts Blue Ridge Hospice, will speak on “Journeying through the degrees and ministry-growing Winter of Life with the Lord.” Fee is $50 per person ($25 if this is your first ARMS retreat.) For more information, e-mail doctor of ministry degrees. Harry Kennon at [email protected]. Learn more at WesleySeminary.edu
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VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 37 Devotions from International Lesson Series LIVING THE WORD faiths responded in throngs. July 5, 2015 Although we were successful in throwing No rest for the wicked out our dictator, one wonders why it took us Micah 2:4-11 20 years to do so. Is it because nobody dared ice is the main food for half the popula- speak up and go against the current power? tion of the world. It is the predominant It is said that the only thing necessary for the Rstaple in 17 Asian, nine American and triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing. eight African countries (according to RiceFacts/ And if we look hard enough and are honest, we usriceproducers.com). Americans eat twice as will find unjust and unfair dealings amongst us. much rice now as they did 10 years ago. With so Do we dare speak up about it? Or do we take an Dr. Elma T. Jocson is a many people in the third world consuming rice, unusually long time to investigate, then rational- Pediatric Surgeon from it is not surprising that the rice trade has been ize, then forget. the Philippines. She controlled by rice cartels. Importation, distribu- We are called by God to speak up and has been a commis- tion and retail sales at grass roots levels are all sioned General Board against wrong doings. We are called to stand up of Global Ministries infiltrated by evil men. Poor people suffer be- for truth and justice. The Spirit of the Lord will missionary since 2001, cause of ever-increasing prices. Even when they enable us. but she is now in her are able to buy, the market scales are tampered second year of sabbat- -- so much so that people suffer injustice twice ical leave. She served over. July 19, 2015 at the United Mission Justice, Love and Humility As children of God, how are we to respond Hospital Tansen in ru- Micah 6:3-8 ral Nepal for six years to such injustice? Our United Methodist Church and at Ganta Hospital has business people as members. I can vividly come from an amazing place with very in Liberia for three remember our pastor preaching about accurate resilient people. The Philippines is visited by years. While currently scales. He said honesty in business honors the an average of 20 tropical storms per year. We in her home country I also have active earthquakes, fault lines and we she works in a govern- Lord Jesus Christ. As I grew older and read more ment hospital and is of the Scripture, I discovered Proverbs 11:1 that sit on the Ring of Fire, a collection of countries a companion to her says the Lord abhors dishonest scales. with active volcanoes. Because tragedies and 80-year-old mother. Whether it’s rice or something else, don’t calamities are regular occurrences, our faith in Before her tenure with we sometimes use dishonest scales when we God is real. Or so we say. We boast that we are Global Ministries, she the only Christian country in Asia. But if we look worked in Good News deal with people? We favor special friends or Clinic and Hospital in people belonging to the same group or church. I closely and are honest with ourselves, we do Banaue, Ifugao. She is remember during a bad storm in the Philippines, not live out our faith. an active member of a lot of people needed evacuation. A church Our top level national leaders are repeatedly the Marikina United was said to have refused to open its doors to accused of corruption, building political dynas- Methodist Church ties and amassing wealth. And the corruption in Marikina City, non-members. Our ‘scales’ -- are they accurate Philippines, where or tilted? permeates to all levels of society. Honesty, fair- she teaches Sunday ness and integrity are rarely found. But there is school, is Youth hope! Followers of Jesus are boldly encouraging Coordinator and chairs July 12, 2015 fellow Christians to take a stand for God’s call for No tolerance for corrupt leaders and prophets Health and Welfare. justice and love. Christians are living out what Micah 3:5-12 God demands God’s children. met a Congolese surgeon when I was serving We honor God by following God’s commands, in Liberia. I was introduced as the surgeon and God tells us to do justice, love kindness and Ifrom the Philippines. I was taken aback by walk humbly with Him. I am reminded of what his getting-to-know you question. He asked, Jesus himself said, “that all men will know that “So who is your dictator?” To that I answered you are my disciple.” Ferdinand Marcos. The Marcoses ruled the Philip- pines for 20 years, but they were ousted in 1986 through a bloodless People’s Revolution. A lead- er of the Catholic Church called on the people to take to the streets and protect the military who had defected against the regime. People of all
38 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 July 26, 2015 God shows clemency Micah 7:14-20 here are nine people sitting on death row in Bali, Indonesia, for Tdrug trafficking: eight men and one woman. There were two Austra- lians, four Nigerians, one Indonesian, one Brazilian and one from the Philip- pines. Mary Jane Veloso, the lone woman, was convicted when she was arrested in April 2010 for possession of 2.6 kilograms of heroin in her lug- gage. She denied being a drug courier, saying she was tricked into bringing the luggage to Indonesia by a Filipino friend who is also her recruiter. When I first heard of the story, the skeptical me thought, “that’s a lie, one cannot be totally clueless.” Most Filipinos who are arrested for traffick- ing are poor, therefore vulnerable to the promise of quick, big money. And so I remain detached from the person of Veloso and the people she repre- sents. As the execution drew near and her requests for reprieve were con- tinuously denied, my country started uniting in prayer for this woman. It was like people from all walks of life asked God for mercy, even as Presi- dent Joko Widodo chose to pursue the death penalty by firing squad. Me? I remained level-headed. April 28 came, and I was surprised by the news. Only Veloso was spared temporarily, the eight others were executed. The official reason is that new evidence has surfaced that can be pursued to get to the drug ring. But I believe that the real reason is that God showed mercy. God chose to display kindness to Mary Jane Veloso and to my people. God showed me that God is equally just and merciful. Praise, praise to our loving God!
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 39 CLERGY & DIACONAL DEATHS Inis Blair, mother of Janet Pittman and mother-in-law of the Rev. Dean The Rev. Darreld Pittman, died on Saturday, June 6. A R. Shoop, retired, memorial service was held at Green- died May 28, wood UMC, Richmond District. 2015. He served as an associate member of the Virginia Confer- ence beginning in 1969 and became an Elder in Full Connection in 1973. In Virginia, he served South Bruns- wick, Prince George, North Garden, St. 11561 Edmonston Rd, Beltsville, MD 20705 Matthias, Fairmount, Trinity (Ashland District), and Mechanicsville churches and was also director of Westview, Inc., from 1974-1977. He retired in 1988 but served at Thomas Chapel on the Farm- ville District in 2002. He was living in Staunton at the time of his death. The Rev. Darreld Shoop is the father of the Rev. Joe Shoop, senior pastor of Bethel UMC (Woodbridge).
Mrs. Mary Cora Lee Davis, a resident of Sentara Village Norfolk, died May 23, 2015. Her husband of 50 years, the Rev. LeRoy W. Davis, died in 1990.
Mrs. Betty Jo Rice, 78, died April 15, 2015. She was preceded in death by her husband, the Rev. Albert Rice III. She is survived by her children, Keith Boseman (JoAnn), Paula Beverley (Devon) and Richard Barkley; stepsons, Albert Rice IV (Violaine), Tim Rice (Margaret), David Rice; and 11 grandchildren.
Mrs. Rosie Newsome, mother of the Rev. Kenny Newsome, died May 21, 2015. She was a member of Melrose UMC in Lottsburg where she sang in the choir and served as treasurer of the cemetery fund for many years. Kenny is senior pastor at Pender UMC, Arlington District.
Mrs. Susan Long, 74, mother of the Rev. Michelle Louk, died May 14, 2015. Michelle is pastor of McKendree UMC in Norfolk.
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VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 FROM THE BISHOP needs. In today’s world, membership seek saving their life, but disciples seek means seeking maximum benefit with losing their life for the Lord. I think this minimum investment. It is important is a fundamental difference between to members whether the church will members of the church and disciples meet their needs or not. I do not think of Jesus Christ. But in today’s church, it is wrong for the church to work to “Cross” is not a popular word. Bearing meet the needs of its members. We the cross is the thing we want to avoid. need to provide care and love that We like to follow Jesus without bearing members need. the cross. Many people want to follow But if the ministry of the church Jesus as long as they feel comfortable only stays there, meeting the needs while doing so. of its members, we cannot be faith- This is one of the reasons we are ful to our mission. Being and living as losing the vitality and authenticity of disciples of Jesus Christ is a life-long our faith. This is also a reason people journey. We need to help our mem- outside the church criticize us as bers grow to become disciples of Jesus hypocrites. We need to rediscover a Christ. Growing into disciples of Jesus is biblical and authentic discipleship. We more than taking a class and learn- need to get out of our comfort zones ing about Jesus’ life and teaching. It is and follow our Lord, although that road related to our values, our priorities and has many challenges. Even though that lifestyles. The call to discipleship is a road asks us to die for the Lord, we very serious challenge for us, although need to say, “Yes” to the Lord because No cross, it is what the Christian life is. by dying we live in Christ. We need to In his book, Shift, Phil Maynard remember, “No Cross, No Discipleship.” no discipleship defines discipleship as follows: It is still true, even in today’s IT era, v Discipleship is not just about learn- what Thomas A Kempis said in his Dear Friends, ing about Jesus. It is about becom- book, The Imitation of Christ: ing like Jesus. Jesus has now many lovers of His May the grace and peace from our risen heavenly kingdom, but few bearers of Lord be with you. v Discipleship is not just about educa- His cross. tion. It is about transformation. Many He has who desire consola- he 2015 Annual Conference ses- v Discipleship is not just about knowl- tion, but few tribulation. sion is over! We are now in a new edge. It is about behavior. Many He finds who share His table, conference year. During the sum- but few are willing to endure anything T Meditating on the meaning of disci- mer months the conference office will for Him. pleship, I found that one word is a key be a little slow, but we will continue Many follow Jesus to the breaking for our discipleship. It is the “Cross.” In to work for our mission of making of bread, but few to the drinking of the growing from members of the church disciples of Jesus Christ for the transfor- cup of His passion. to disciples of Jesus, the most critical mation of the world. Many revere His miracles, but few decision we have to make is whether I thank God that this Annual Confer- follow the shame of His cross. we are willing to bear the cross to ence gave us a chance to think about Many love Jesus so long as no adversi- follow Jesus or not. Our Lord Jesus our mission more seriously. What does ties befall them. Christ made it clear to his disciples: “If it mean to be a disciple of Jesus Christ? Where will we find a person willing to any want to become my followers, let What are the differences between serve God without receiving something them deny themselves and take up members of the church and disciples in return? their cross and follow me. For those of Jesus Christ? How can we develop a who want to save their life will lose it, system or a road map to make Jesus’ In our Lord, and those who lose their life for my disciples? We were challenged and sake, and for the sake of the gospel, learned that the time has come for us Young Jin Cho will save it.” (Mark 8:34-35) to move from members to disciples. Members seek self-satisfaction, but As we heard and learned, members disciples seek self-denial. Members are concerned about “me” and my
42 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 ONE LAST WORD Patmos UMC sends two couples on mission trip to Tanzania, Kenya
onths before two couples from Patmos UMC, in Huddleston M(Lynchburg District), went to East Africa, the entire congregation helped make preparations for the mission trip. Tweets heard ‘round The trip was arranged for the last week of May and the missionaries, Mitch the conference and Suzanne Hooper and Wayne and Carroll Brown, would visit both Tanzania Alan Combs @thricemantis and Kenya. I just don’t think any of these guys see In order to prepare, the church’s the world through the eyes of children weekly knitting group and other ladies #TheBachelorette hand-crocheted 200 cotton washcloths for the children at the New Mercy Care Morgan Guyton @MAGuyton Centre Academy in Kenya’s Mathare The laziest way to “glorify” God is slums of Nairobi. Other items were made by taking a stance on someone else’s and sold at the annual bazaar to help sexuality. Discipleship is much harder buy malaria medicine and basketballs for where they stayed at the Methodist and much more useful to God. the Maasai school in Tanzania. Guest House in Nairobi. Here, they visited The mission trip opportunity came the New Mercy Care Centre Academy. McKennon Shea @McKennon from Ole Kuney, a Maasai chief oversee- The Academy is located in the Mathare Does the Virginia Conference have the ing 2 million Maasai in Tanzania and slums in Nairobi, slums where over 1 most resolutions this year? 8 res. + 16 Kenya. Kuney, a Christian doctor, is a million people live in a two square mile for GC. = 24! #vaumc #umc longtime friend of the Browns. The area with huts made of cardboard, mud, couple met Kuney when they served at and tin. Alan Combs @thricemantis Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center as The oldest slum in Africa, the Mathare Seriously #vaumc? It is a voting year missionaries while he studied there for slums are no stranger to crime, disease and there are EIGHT resolutions and his doctorate. and despair. In an effort to stem this SIXTEEN GC petitions. The missionaries’ trip began in Tan- hopelessness, a small Christian school Pastor Jason Elmore @PastorJasonE zania among the Maasai, tribesman that was founded to feed children and offer #WCWS going into extra innings is wander the plains of Tanzania and Kenya education nearly 20 years ago. The Acad- causing me to stay awake longer than raising cattle. Though there are many emy, now a school to nearly 200 children, expected! #stillgottapreachtomorrow chiefs among the Maasai people, Kuney welcomed the Patmos visitors, and the is a chief that oversees nearly 2 million children entertained them with plays, Bert Cloud @bertcloud people in Kenya and Tanzania. To wel- skits and songs. Many of the teachers What joy it was to spend time with come the couples from Patmos, Kuney at this school have been there since the a great group of new and transition- invited over 30 chiefs who presented beginning which deeply touched Carroll ing colleagues at the Va UM Licensing them with native costumes as gifts and Brown, who has been involved with the School. Makes me hopeful. a cake made by Kuney’s daughters. school for more than 15 years. While in Tanzania, the Patmos The whole experience left the Patmos Courtney Layman @CML1133 couples visited the Maasai high school visitors with a profound sense of hope. Found it appropriate that @VAUMC that was built by the Maasai and other From the teachers of the New Mercy Care hired a creative writing major as Editor Christian groups. There the missionaries Academy to Maasai tribe, the couples of the Advocate. #vaumc #UMC #got- presented basketballs and medicine to witnessed significant strides by people tobecreative the school. who are improving the world around After touring more of Tanzania, the them in large ways with a small amount missionary group traveled to Kenya of resources.
VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | JULY 2015 43 and
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