Summer 2016 Archived at www.memphis-umc.org • FREE to print in any quantity

‘Offering Christ: One Neighborhood at a Time’ was theme of 2016 Memphis Annual Conference By Lane Gardner Camp, Memphis Conference Director of Communications [First published on website 7/5/2016] “Offering Christ: One Neigh- ing the global United Methodist Of the 19 who were borhood at a Time” was the Church. remembered, she said, theme for the 2016 Memphis McAlilly stated he is looking “Each caught a glimpse Annual Conference of The for “people who will see what of God’s world made United Methodist Church that is possible, not impossible,” and real here on earth.” took place June 19-22 in Jackson, added, “In the next four years, Those remembered in- Tennessee, with Bishop William we are going to build on the cluded Monta Ann Bled- T. (Bill) McAlilly presiding. work God is doing.” soe, Dorothy S. “Scot- McAlilly is the resident His message included several tie” Wilson Brafford, bishop for the Nashville examples of churches doing Richard Taylor Carruth, Episcopal Area of The United work that speak of a “thriving Jerry F. Corlew, Norman Methodist Church that includes church,” not the “dying church” L. Crittenden, Martin N. the Memphis (West Tennessee that receives so much attention. Crockett, Sr., Earl C. Da- and Western Kentucky) and McAlilly reminded delegates, vid, William E. Elkins, Tennessee (Middle Tennessee) “Your church is a mission Mary Jane Granberry, Conferences. station. You need to take the William H. Granberry, emphasis off missionprojects .” Larry B. Jarvis, Wil- To engage the mission field, he liam R. McClarin, W.A. said, “Turn missional gestures Nance, Alma C. Napier, into missional encounters.” Owen Everett Roseber- “We’ve never done it that ry, William B. Springer, A group of 17 college-age young adults way” is a phrase churches must Charles E. Stewart, Lena serving as summer interns with Project eliminate to be agile and cre- Gail Haley Stewart and Transformation Memphis were com- ative for the future, he said. William M. Vaughn, Jr. missioned during the June 19 opening “How am I going to give love A group of 17 college- worship service of the 2016 Memphis away in my neighborhood?” age young adults serv- Annual Conference at Northside United was a question McAlilly asked ing as summer interns Methodist Church in Jackson, Tennessee. all Memphis Conference clergy with Project Transfor- Bishop William T. (Bill) McAlilly, top and laity to contemplate. mation Memphis were right, addressed the group. (Photo by Lane Worship Services commissioned during Gardner Camp). the Opening Worship Memphis Conference clergy on Sunday evening. “You cannot say what God is and clergy spouses who died In response to one of its four up to if you stay inside the walls in the previous year – 19 in areas of focus to “invest in of your church,” said McAlilly. New Location all – were memorialized in a young people,” the Memphis Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey, For the first time ever, North- Sunday afternoon Service of Conference is partnering for resident bishop of the Louisiana side United Methodist Church Remembering. the first time this summer with Conference of The United Meth- hosted the conference. Dele- Retiring pastor Rev. Emily S. Project Transformation. By liv- odist Church, was the preacher gates, along with family, friends Matheny, associate pastor and ing in intentional community for Monday evening’s Service of and special guests, gathered to executive director of congre- and building relationships with Commissioning and Ordination worship, learn, conduct business gational care at Christ United children and youth from low- of Deacons and Elders, with and celebrate accomplishments. Methodist Church in Mem- income communities, the interns Licensing of Local Pastors. phis, Tennessee, delivered the State-of-the-Church are exploring a call to ministry “Know Who You Are” was sermon, “Common Bonds of Address and service. the title of Harvey’s sermon Remembering.” “Change is here, friends,” “One Neighborhood at a that she began by saying to the Matheny reminded attendees said Bishop McAlilly during Time” was the title of Bishop group being ordained, com- that annual conference is about his Monday state-of-the church McAlilly’s sermon that un- missioned and licensed, “You building and sustaining rela- address. packed the questions: “Who are at an incredible threshold… tionships. “By recalling the lives He used the acronym VUCA are my neighbors?” and “Do I It’s not an easy path, but it is a of colleagues and friends, we to describe a world that is know them?” and “Who should privileged path. You will never honor their faithful work. …We volatile, uncertain, complex and I love?” be the same.” keep our conferencing in holy ambiguous and is greatly affect- perspective,” she said. Continued on page 6 Page 2 / Summer 2016 ‘Coupled in Christ’ Sunday Amanda Crice is new Memphis School class at Christ Conference coordinator of youth ministries UMC in Memphis serves [First published on website 6/13/2016] breakfast to area police Amanda Crice assum- Geary, is another way ed the duties of Memphis the Memphis Conference [First published on website 7/18/2016] Conference coordinator is living into its mission On Friday, July 15, members of the “Coupled in of youth ministries, effec- with a focus (one of four) Christ” Sunday School class at Christ United Methodist tive July 1. of “investing in young Church in Memphis, Tennessee, spread out across Mem- The announcement people.” phis, Germantown, Collierville and Bartlett to serve came from Dr. Joe Geary, Born and raised in breakfast to more than 600 police officers. director of Memphis McLeansboro, Illinois, An article in the July 18 eNews from the church Conference Connectional Crice graduated from described the police as those “who put their lives on the Ministries. Murray State University line to protect us every single day.” Crice, a 2016 graduate in Murray, Kentucky, The article of the Candler School in 2006 with a degree in said, “We are of Theology at Emory middle school educa- so thankful for University in Atlanta, tion. There she served in each of you Georgia, is taking her ministry leadership roles and pray- first appointment with with the Wesley Founda- ing over you the Wesley Foundation tion. (campus ministry) at the “It was the Wesley today!” Beginning July 1, Amanda Local busi- University of Tennessee Foundation that brought at Martin, Tennessee, me to the United Meth- Crice is new Memphis nesses donated Conference coordinator of food. V that also began July 1, ac- odist Church,” said cording to appointments Crice, “and first opened youth ministries, in addi- announced by Bishop Bill my ears to hear the call tion to her appointment McAlilly. to ministry that God had to the Wesley Foundation In addition to her work placed on my life.” (campus ministry) at the with the Wesley Foun- Over the next ten years University of Tennessee at dation in Martin, Crice Crice had employment Martin. (Submitted photo) will give extra hours of that gave her “oppor- those who feel excluded leadership and focus to tunities to work with or disenfranchised by the »»This quarterly publication is distributed electronically Memphis Conference people of all ages and in church,” said Crice. to print and email in any quantity at user’s cost. No youth ministries as an all stages of their faith Seminary helped Crice permissions are needed to redistribute in any form. This adjunct member of the development.” learn she is “particu- revised publication now includes only articles about Connectional Ministries After three years of larly passionate about mission, ministry and transformation inside the Memphis team, said Geary. teaching seventh grade empowering youth and Conference of The United Methodist Church which in- cludes West Tennessee and Western Kentucky. Hard news Crice replaces Rev. and four years of full- young adults to claim the and upcoming events are communicated via the Memphis Kristofer (and wife time youth ministry, gifts God has given them Conference website at www.memphis-umc.org, the Alyssa) Roof of Peace she said she knew her for their ministry in the conference’s free weekly eNews and social media. Tree United Methodist next step was to go to world and creating space »»MISSION of the Memphis Conference is to discover, Church in Collierville, seminary and begin the in the church to foster equip, connect and send lay and clergy leaders who shape Tennessee, whose term ordination process. those gifts.” congregations that offer Jesus Christ to a hurting world, ended June 30. “God had made it clear Crice and husband one neighborhood at a time. »»VALUES include unrelenting love for all people, integrity, The youth ministries to me that I have a call on Justin have relocated to excellence, faithfulness & fruitfulness, innovation. position, explained my life to minister with Martin. V Editor: Lane Gardner Camp, Director of Communications Layout: Lisa (Ogle) Smithey Contributing Writers this issue: Lane Gardner Camp, ‘Peace with Justice – Memphis Kathryn Crawford, Bobbie Mays, Kristi Henson Owens, Ruth Ann Ray, Casey Northcutt Watson, Amanda Wiley Conference’ is new Facebook page To submit news or ask questions about content: Email [email protected] with resources and event info Call 731-664-8480 Fax 731-660-5712 [First published on website 7/19/2016] Write Communications, Memphis Conference, 24 Corporate Blvd., Jackson, TN 38305 "Peace with Justice - Find the Facebook Other FREE Memphis Conference news sources: Memphis Conference" is page and “like” it at • Website: www.memphis-umc.org the name of a new Face- www.facebook.com/ • Mobile App: m.memphis-umc.org book page launched this PeaceWithJusticeMem- • Bishop’s Blog: bishopbillmcalilly.com summer by Rev. Larry phisConference. • Talking Tech Blog: memphis-umc.org/talkingtech Chitwood, the Memphis The purpose of the • eNews (weekly): Sign up on the Website or email [email protected] Conference’s new Peace page, according to • Facebook: facebook.com/memphisumc with Justice advocate. Chitwood, is to pro- • Twitter: twitter.com/um_memphisconf Chitwood serves vide churches access • Instagram: Instagram.com - @um_memphisconf Bolton and Macedo- to resources and event • The Clarion (United Methodist Women): nia United Methodist information on Peace For more information, www.memphis-umc.org/unitedmethodistwomen Churches in Arlington, with Justice initiatives in contact Chitwood at LM- • News N Views for retirees: Read online at Tennessee, in the Metro the Memphis Conference [email protected] www.memphis-umc.org District. and The United Method- OR 901-240-5682. V ist Church. Page 3 / Summer 2016 ‘Stitch of Love’ group crochets to help others By Kristi Henson Owens, Executive Director, Golden Cross Senior Residents Fund [First published on website 6/14/2016] For a group of 11 senior crocheters living Arnethi Brown and at Wesley Graceland Gardens, receiving Geraldine Williams enjoy a bag of donated yarn feels like children crocheting scarves, hats receiving their favorite toys on Christmas and blankets, while Deliah morning. Griffin likes to crochet Wesley Graceland Gardens is a Wesley baby blankets and hats. Living community in Memphis, Tennessee. One year the group The group of ladies, called “Stitch of donated handmade hats to Love” crochet group, meets every Thurs- a men’s homeless shelter. day in the community room to work on Later, some of the ladies handmade items using yarn donated to saw a man wearing one of Golden Cross Senior Residents Fund. their hats and said their Belle Artis, one of the instructors, began hearts were full knowing teaching mentally challenged students they were doing some- how to crochet back in Chicago. When she thing for others. moved to Wesley Graceland Gardens, she Jessie Thomas likes "Stitch of Love" crochet group at Wesley Graceland Gardens wanted to continue teaching others how to to crochet blankets and in Memphis, Tennessee, makes blankets, animals, dolls, hats, crochet. scarves, while Patrica Brod- booties, wraps, scarves and more to give away to others. Artis loves to make clothing for stuffed nax likes to make blankets. (Photo by Kristi Henson Owens) animals and dolls. This year, the “Stitch of Every year, this group creates beautiful- Love” group crocheted and donated baby lap blanket left to donate and it was lime ly-designed items such as baby blankets and other items to a women’s homeless green. Later, upon returning to the nursing and hats, booties, scarves and wraps for shelter. home to donate more handmade items, others in need. Other members of the group include one of the doctors told the “Stitch of Love” Alta Henry enjoys making scarves and Daise Williams, LaPaula Turner and Nancy group that the 99-year-old woman had hats, while Georgia Clark likes to make Taylor. taken her lime green lap blanket with her clothes, including suits and dresses. It doesn’t take a lot of talent to crochet, everywhere. Not one strand of yarn is left unused; the ladies say, just a lot of faith and love, as Every item the “Stitch of Love” group the creative bunch uses all of the yarn, no well as faith in your ability to do for others crochets has love sewn in one stitch at a matter how small to make sure each item is and love in the gratification of knowing time. finished with love. you are helping. Donations of yarn are greatly appreciat- One year the group was able to make While taking lap blankets to a nurs- ed and may be sent or delivered to: Golden and donate nearly 1,000 items to a nursing ing home, the “Stitch of Love” group was Cross, 1615 Appling Road, Cordova, TN home and another year 80 baby blankets talking with a 99-year-old woman who 38016. were made and donated to a hospital ma- mentioned that her favorite color was For additional information, call 901-213- ternity ward. lime green. One of the crocheters had one 1930 or visit www.goldencrossfund.org. V Jackson First United Methodist Church reached out to its city on April 9 with ‘Great Day of Service’ By Bobbie Mays, Communications Director, Jackson First United Methodist Church [First published on website 6/13/2016] More than 150 men, women, youth and children from Jackson First United Methodist Church in Jackson, Tennessee, went out into their city in teams on Saturday, April 9, for a “Great Day of Service.” The church’s missions team, under the leadership of Heather Taylor, coordinator, organized 14 service projects around the city. After a light breakfast, prayer and brief commissioning service with ev- eryone singing “We Are the Church,” the teams headed out into the city. Projects included: • doing art projects with shut-ins, hospital patients, and military personnel • assembling care packages for homeless and others who come to the church in need • painting, landscaping and repair projects at numerous locations around city, including social service agencies and two schools • singing at nursing and assisted living homes • knitting and crocheting preemie caps for local hospital Singing for residents of local nursing and assisted living This memorable day was filled with so many blessings of the church homes was one of 14 service projects by Jackson First United working together, caring for others, helping our neighbors and sharing Methodist Church on its Great Day of Service on April 9. Christ’s love! V (Submitted photo) Follow us on Twitter Looking for more news? Twitter.com/UM_MemphisConf Visit www.memphis-umc.net/news Page 4 / Summer 2016 Delegates to 2016 General Conference share thoughts and impressions of time in Portland

Compiled by Lane Gardner Camp, Director of Communications [First published on website 6/7/2016] Memphis Conference del- • Isabelle Dillard, St. John’s rapidly-dwindling membership, I was privileged to serve on egates returned from the 2016 UMC, Memphis, TN - second there seems to be an epidemic the Global Ministries Legisla- General Conference of The lay alternate delegate of selective rejection of United tive Committee during the first United Methodist Church with Clergy Delegates Methodist theology and new week, processing petitions and an array of thoughts and im- interpretations of the Holy resolutions received from mem- • Sky McCracken, first clergy pressions. Scriptures. bers around the world. It gives delegate, Purchase District Meeting May 10-20 in Port- To put the lasting effects of new meaning today as I read superintendent, dean of the land, Oregon, General Confer- such cultural and theological The Book of Discipline and The Memphis Conference cabinet, ence is the top legislative body diversity into perspective, the Book of Resolutions to know 2016 episcopal candidate of the United Methodist Church. North Georgia Conference lay each word was prayed over and • Eddie Bromley, Milan First It meets once every four years leader offered me a stunning analyzed to express the exact UMC, Milan, TN – second to work through legislation statistic: He said there are now content, seeking to understand clergy delegate submitted by individual mem- more members of The United intended and unintended conse- • Autura Eason-Williams, Ca- bers, groups and organizations Methodist Church in one district quences. pleville UMC, Memphis, TN - to revise portions of The Book in the North Georgia Conference As I sat around the table with first clergy alternate delegate of Discipline and The Book of than in the entire state of Cali- our discussion group, I couldn’t • Jonathan L. Jeffords, St. John’s Resolutions. fornia. That is hard to compre- help but feel the spirit on the UMC, Memphis TN – second General Conference is the hend. If not factually accurate, it day of Pentecost. One member clergy alternate delegate only entity that speaks for The is representative of the problem. spoke English, one French, one United Methodist Church. Below are the delegates’ Spiritual energy and new Portuguese and two Kiswahili. For full coverage of the 2016 answers to four questions about disciples come from the birth of All spoke of love for God and General Conference, visit www. the 2016 General Conference. new faith communities. Unlike their neighbors. Any missing answers were not umc.org/who-we-are/gc-2016- most of the mainline protestant Burnett: provided. news-archives. denominations that are strug- The 2016 General Conference The Memphis Conference Q. What was your most gling within the United States, had some very inspirational and delegation joined 864 delegates meaningful experience at 2016 The United Methodist Church is challenging worship services. from around the world. They General Conference? rapidly becoming a truly global They were the most meaningful debated and processed legis- church which will continue to Reed: times for me. Another meaning- lation, worshipped together thrive if we but honor and sup- ful experience was seeing and and learned about the work of I have a new appreciation port that which God is blessing, for the tremendous spiritual greeting friends from around The United Methodist Church wherever in the world that such the world, some of whom I had throughout the world. energy and stabilizing impact exciting growth is taking place. on the “global United Methodist not seen for four years. Membership in The United Bell: Methodist Church worldwide Church” (that is) coming from McCracken: the church’s explosive growth As a person of faith called The worship was incredible. grew to more than 12.3 million by God to be in mission and in 2014, due predominantly to outside the United States. Meeting people from all over Within what I would call ministry with my community, the world reminded me that increases in Africa, Europe and region, nation and world, it was Asia where membership rose the “inherited United Method- the Church goes far beyond my ist Church” in North America, through General Conference I own experience and context. from nearly 4.4 million in 2009 experienced the beauty of mov- to 5.1 million in 2014. U.S. mem- entire regions are experiencing Bromley: a precipitous loss of member- ing from a United Methodist bership declined in the same Church of the United States with General Conference was one period, from nearly 7.7 million ship – even a loss of belief in the of the most spiritual experiences Triune God. In these regions of global outreach to a truly global to slightly more than 7.2 million. United Methodist Church. of my entire life. The whole The Memphis Conference thing is bathed in prayer. Wor- delegation, elected at the 2015 ship, prayer and devotion are Memphis Annual Conference, the order of the day. The three included clergy and lay mem- are the structure in which the bers, each one assigned to a church’s business is done. legislative committee for the first Those who have not expe- week of General Conference. rienced General Conference Here are the members of the would probably have a hard Memphis Conference delegation time understanding just how to 2016 General Conference: Christ-centered the whole thing is. Media posts tend to highlight Lay Delegates only what is “wrong” with • David R. Reed, Martin First General Conference. The experi- UMC, Martin, TN – first lay ence of being there is almost the delegate and head of delega- complete opposite of what many tion of these kinds of posts portray. • Elyse Bell, Paris First UMC, Paris, TN - second lay del- Eason-Williams: egate My most meaningful experi- • Sandra Burnett, Lone Oak Bishop Bill McAlilly (standing) visits with delegates from the ence was the time spent listen- UMC, Paducah, KY - first lay Memphis Conference on May 18 during 2016 General Conference in ing and telling stories about the alternate delegate Portland, Oregon. Seated, from left, are Rev. Sky McCracken, Rev. issue of homosexuality. There Eddie Bromley and David R. Reed. (Photo by Lane Gardner Camp) were six people in my group. Page 5 / Summer 2016

General Conference Delegates share thoughts continued

Everyone spoke at their level of Reed: comfort and the stories ranged This was my third General from no personal experience Rev. Sky Conference. However, this was with the issue to one who has McCracken, my first time to serve as a del- come out as one of the 111. right, enjoys egate. I was honored to lead our a laugh with delegation, along with Bro. Sky Jeffords: Alfred Erickson, The most meaningful experi- McCracken. Eight years ago I a delegate attended General Conference in ences overall were the worship from Sweden. services. Each brought some- Texas at my own expense as an (Photo by Lane alternate to the Southeast Juris- thing that praised God while of- Gardner Camp) fering a word we needed to hear. dictional Conference. Four years I was also reminded of what can ago I attended General Confer- do through The United Method- ence in Florida as an alternate ist Church when watching the delegate. Imagine No Malaria report. In addition to General Confer- for the next quadrennium. Bromley: ence, the conference lay leaders Q. What was your most surpris- There were occasions when For me the most challenging held our annual meeting prior ing and/or challenging experi- being fully engaged could be a experience was when our bishop to General Conference, so I was ence at 2016 General Conference challenge and even exhausting (Bill McAlilly) was accused of in Portland for 15 days. The – and why? at times on many levels: men- trying to sway votes. Emotions physical, mental and spiritual Reed: tally, physically, emotionally were running high that day, demands over that two-week One of my disappointments and even spiritually. and we were not at our best as a period were immense. The was budget-related. There are The days were long, the dis- group of Christians. Many con- amount of work one must do sound economic models of The cussions often intense; and emo- flicts threaten the health of The before and after you arrive at United Methodist Church in tions ran high. Wading through United Methodist Church and I General Conference, to be prop- North America which show all the levels of parliamen- was reminded of just how much erly prepared for each day’s that we have less than 20 years tary procedure while debating work we have to do to work work, can be staggering. to turn around our decline Roberts Rules of Order became through our differences. I was blessed to room with Dr. Eddie Bromley. At night in membership to prevent a wearisome at times. But through Eason-Williams: financial collapse of the general it all, God’s spirit prevailed. we read scripture and prayed My most challenging experi- for all involved with General church. I was grateful to my African ence was watching my bishop Bold legislation was submit- friends who began singing for Conference. We also prayed to be disrespected from the floor be clothed in the full spiritual ted and passed in the Finance the presence of the Holy Spirit of General Conference basically Legislative Committee by a vote to come into the convention cen- armor of God. because he is from Mississippi Bishop James Swanson, Sr., of 44 to 8 to reduce the budgets ter in Portland, Oregon, to bring and talking with some people of the General Commissions and unity to a group of people called may have best explained why during the recess who felt like the we did this in his sermon during General Agencies by 5% (from United Methodists. We have disrespect was justified. I am very a $600 million budget over the much to learn from our African the May 18 opening worship: proud of the way Bishop (Bill) “If you are going to go, there next 4 years) with those funds friends. It was truly amazing to McAlilly handled the situation. going back to local churches to see the sudden change in tone is a shadow figure that follows be used to implement proven and mood throughout the con- Jeffords: you also. You need to know that, methods of church growth for vention center. There is great tension in The while you go, evil is going also.” United Methodist Church about increasing church vitality and Burnett: Bell: for new church starts. how to be “of one heart,” even Having prepared in advance The most surprising experience if we are not “of one mind.” The leaders of a few of these was when the delegates requested by reading hundreds of pages bureaucracies blocked this Watching that on display as con- from the Daily Christian Ad- that the Council of Bishops show stituencies and caucuses maneu- initiative without acknowledg- leadership and help guide the vocate, I found my experience ing the fact that they have spent vered on the floor was difficult/ much richer. As a first-time del- denomination in a time of turmoil painful. My sense is that some hundreds of millions of ap- and crisis. This was such a sur- egate I was prepared with my portionment dollars from local are content to worship the Gos- books in hand. What I was not prise to me because I do not know pel of Roberts Rules of Order churches without changing the of a previous General Conference prepared for was the richness of trajectory of The United Meth- than be open to what the Spirit worship, the beauty of music, where such a request was made is saying to us now about who odist Church. of our bishops. the depth of each message re- It should be noted that it had we shall be and how we shall be minding us to stay humble and been proposed by the author McCracken: a witness to a broken world. to serve others, and the celebra- of this legislation to exclude (The most surprising and/ tions of recent accomplishments. challenging experience was) Q. What are your observations United Methodist Men from as a first-time delegate (impres- As we gathered as the body these cuts because that agency seeing the increased venom of Christ – young and old, men and tactics of the extremes and sions) or returning delegate raises most of its own funds and (comparisons to past)? and women, black, brown and only gets a tiny percentage of special interest groups in our white – I could feel we were World Service Funds compared denomination. united for a common purpose as to all other General Commis- those called to make disciples of sions and Agencies. See more photos of Memphis Conference Jesus Christ for the transforma- Bell: delegates and others at 2016 General Conference tion of the world. I was truly blessed to be a I was moved to tears by the part of the discernment process on the Memphis Conference website at commissioning of 29 new mis- in concert with other United www.memphis-umc.org sionaries from 11 countries to Methodists as plans were made Continued on page 10 Page 6 / Summer 2016

Annual Conference Offering Christ continued from page 1 Talking about the “ever- over “authority of scripture,” he The group of 22 vocalists changing world” and “ever- lamented, are “amidst ignorance (a portion of the full choir), changing church,” she said more of scripture.” mesmerized concertgoers with a than once that today’s church “You can’t teach someone to repertoire that included hymns, is not the church of previous be a Christian in one hour per spirituals and gospel music. Ver- generations. week,” he said, to draw atten- non L. Jones directed the choir. During the “wilderness tion to learning priorities that, “Has this not been a glori- times” of every life, she re- for instance, emphasize spend- ous day?!” Bishop McAlilly minded, “God is a god of the ing more time per week playing exclaimed, referring to Tues- future who brings hope out of a sport than grappling with the day’s teaching sessions and the desperation and makes a way challenges of being a Christian. concert. when there is no way.” Church-led social innovation Offerings for ‘Churches Noting that “tomorrow, today is possible, Jones said, when will be yesterday,” she stressed, churches “rise out of (their) Reaching Neighbors’ and “God is doing a new thing today.” pettiness and infighting” and ‘The Jerusalem Fund’ Addressing laity in atten- become inventors “in a way Offerings during annual con- dance, Harvey said, “I remind that bears witness to the love of ference benefitted two initiatives: the rest of you that clergy are God.” • Churches Reaching Neigh- not the only ones with creden- Citing Ephesians 3:20-21 bors is a new program of the tials. “You, too, by your bap- Dr. L. Gregory Jones (RSV: Now to him who by the Memphis Conference that will award grants to local churches tism,” are called of God. Gregory Jones, author of a book power at work within us is able that develop ministry action “Our life’s work,” Harvey on the same subject released in to do far more abundantly than plans that connect churches preached, “is to share the love May 2016 by Abingdon Press, all that we ask or think, to him be to community neighbors and of God. …God does not call us Christian Social Innovation – glory in the church and in Christ make disciples, as well as once and for all. God calls us Renewing Wesleyan Witness. Jesus to all generations, for ever develop strategies to increase again and again and again.” Jones is executive vice and ever. Amen.), Jones called for numbers of baptisms and • Ordained as elder was Jeffrey president and provost at Baylor churches to: “professions of faith.” Martin Rudy University in Waco, Texas. Pre- • Adopt a mission that has • The Jerusalem Fund is a • Ordained as deacons were Ca- viously he was at Duke Univer- great value confidential ministry that mille Waggaman Bradley and sity in Durham, North Carolina, • Align everything in service to provides assistance to Mem- Jonathan Chambers Lewis where he was most recently vice that mission phis Conference clergy facing • Commissioned as elders were president and vice provost for • Adapt, innovate, renovate and short-term financial hard- Amanda Leigh Crice and global strategy and programs, discard ships. Amanda Hartmann Westmo- and before that dean of Duke's • Act boldly using resources at Special collections also were reland Divinity School. hand received for Project Transfor- • Commissioned as deacons Jones believes churches • Account for outcomes and mation and the Rust College were Eric Joseph Soard and today must take innovative lessons learned A’Cappella Choir. Janean Lee Tinsley approaches through social entre- Bishop McAlilly said Jones’ As of July 1, the Memphis • Licensed as local pastors were preneurship to provide renewal, message “has stirred up in us a Conference Treasurer’s Office Kyle Bomar, Matthew Emison, re-establish trust and cultivate desire to be more.” He asked cler- reported monies received as Robert Field, Lisa Harper, sustainability. He stressed that gy and laity to pray about how follows: Dallas Pfeiffer, William F. a faith-based organization must love can make them inventors. • Churches Reaching Neighbors Simms and Roger South avoid becoming “just another A’Cappella Choir Concert The Service of Sending $18,232.52 social service agency” and At the conclusion of the last Forth and Setting of Appoint- • The Jerusalem Fund “must not let the past get in its teaching session on Tuesday ments on Wednesday afternoon $4,966.14 eyes.” afternoon, delegates and guests included a message from Bishop • Project Transformation “Isn’t that what weighs us experienced a sacred concert McAlilly, meditations on differ- $600.00 down?” he asked – referring to by the A’Cappella Choir of ent ways churches are offering • Rust College A’Cappella the past. Rust College in Holly Springs, Christ in their neighborhoods Choir $2,983.00 “If we don’t know why we Mississippi, a United Methodist and the setting of 2016 clergy are doing something, we should educational institution. Continued on page 8 appointments. stop,” he stated candidly. Looking to the future, Rather than being part McAlilly asked, “What’s going of the “broken institutional to become of the church if we landscape,” Jones advocates don’t move in a different way?” for churches and Christians to He emphasized that “any embrace “social innovation” and good idea for the body of Christ “social entrepreneurship.” can come from anywhere.” Too many Christian churches, Among other parting words, he said, are guilty of an inward McAlilly told clergy and laity, focus, a “failure of imagina- “I believe The United Methodist tion,” “mediocrity that parades Church is one of the best-kept as faithfulness” and a mindset secrets in the world.” rooted in scarcity, rather than Teaching Sessions God’s abundance. “Traditioned Innovation” Jones pointed to what he was the theme of three teaching termed “Biblical illiteracy” in The A’Cappella Choir of Rust College, directed by Vernon L. Jones, sessions on Tuesday by Dr. L. some churches. Many fights center, performed a sacred concert. (Photo by Lane Gardner Camp) Page 7 / Summer 2016

Assorted photos from 2016 Memphis Annual Conference. Find more photos in the “Photo Albums” section of the Memphis Conference website at www.memphis-umc.org. Photos by Lane Gardner Camp. Page 8 / Summer 2016 Annual Conference Offering Christ continued from page 8 Episcopal Candidate: Conference Board of Pension four Hispanic congregations. This Rev. Sky McCracken ➧ and Health Benefits. was accomplished with equip- Memphis Conference del- • Retirees will access their ment from the United Methodist egates unanimously nominated Medicare supplemental General Board of Global Minis- Rev. Sky McCracken for the coverage through the One tries and volunteer interpreters. office of bishop in the Southeast- Exchange program. Awards • Retirees and their spouses will ern Jurisdiction of The United Three individuals were each receive $250 per month Methodist Church. Last year named recipients of the 2016 in a Health Reimbursement delegates endorsed his candi- Memphis Conference Harry Account (HRA) to fund their dacy, along with delegates of Denman Evangelism Award: coverage premiums. Future the Tennessee Conference. • Clergy: Rev. Mark Carrigan, retirees will have to have McCracken currently serves Huntingdon First United served 20 years to qualify for as dean of the Memphis Confer- Methodist Church, Hunting- this subsidy. ence cabinet and superintendent don, Tennessee • Clergy under the age of 60 on of the Purchase District in West- • Laity: Jim Hathcock, Bartlett July 1, 2016, will no longer re- ern Kentucky. United Methodist Church, 2017 Budget ceive a medical subsidy upon For election results, see juris- Bartlett, Tennessee The annual conference ap- retirement. dictional conference story on • Youth: David Gerle, Trinity proved a budget of $8,134,256 • Full-time active clergy and page 15. United Methodist Church, for mission and ministry in 2017. conference lay employees will Paducah, Kentucky Youth Participation This is a $521,136 (six percent) be enrolled in the Health Flex Sponsored by the Foundation In addition to young people decrease from 2016. insurance program offered by for Evangelism, the Denman who led prayers during busi- Bethany K. Huffman, presi- Wespath. Award honors persons who ness and teaching sessions and dent of the Memphis Conference Davis said workshops will have made outstanding efforts participated in worship as musi- Council on Finance and Ad- soon be announced to assist re- in Wesleyan evangelism by cians, vocalists and dancers, ministration (CFA) stressed the tirees and active clergy in transi- helping to bring others into a speakers included: group’s ongoing work to align tioning to the new program. • Hope Cody from Bolivar First the conference’s budgets and personal relationship with Jesus United Methodist Church resources. Resolution Vote Christ. in Bolivar, Tennessee, who By a significant margin, Four churches, one from each Conference Health delegates did not pass the one district, were presented the One delivered the “Young People's Insurance Address,” sponsored by the resolution that was submitted Matters Discipleship Award: Delegates affirmed the recom- Memphis Conference Board by William (Will) R. Clark, a • Bemis United Methodist mendation of the Clergy Well- of Laity. She answered the member of Lambuth Memorial Church in Jackson, Tennessee, ness Commission to move from question, “How is God calling United Methodist Church in in the Tennessee River District its longtime, self-funded plan you to offer Christ to those in Jackson, Tennessee; a member of • Edith United Methodist to plans offered by Wespath your neighborhood?” the Duke Divinity School (Dur- Church in Ripley, Tennes- Benefits (formerly known as the • Black College Fund Ambas- ham, North Carolina) class of see, in the Mississippi River General Board of Pension and sador Jacob Cogman, a 2016 2017; and a certified candidate District Health Benefits). graduate of United Methodist- for ministry in the Memphis • El Redentor United Methodist Speaking after annual confer- affiliated Claflin University in Conference. Church in Memphis, Tennes- ence, Larry Davis, Memphis Orangeburg, South Carolina, The resolution proposed an see, in the Metro District Conference treasurer, said, “This who thanked the Memphis addition to the conference’s • Trinity United Methodist change affects all of our retirees, Conference for its support of standing rules: “guaranteed Church in Paducah, Kentucky, full-time clergy and conference the Black College Fund of the voice, but not vote” on the floor in the Purchase District lay employees.” United Methodist General of annual conference for “cur- Sponsored by Discipleship Davis provided these sum- Board of Higher Education rent enrolled seminarians and Ministries of The United Meth- mary points of the changes: and Ministry. candidates for ministry.” Visit odist Church, the One Matters • The Board of Pensions and Memphis Conference website at award recognizes churches that Clergy Wellness Commission www.memphis-umc.org for full have moved away from zero are now combined to form the full text of submitted resolution. professions of faith and baptism Memphis Conference Lay to positive numbers. Each award Leader David R. Reed, chair included a $1,000 gift. of the resolutions committee, The Bishop’s Award of said the committee supported Excellence in Scouting from the the “spirit” of the resolution, General Commission on United but committee members said Methodist Men was presented they could not remember a time to Arlington United Methodist when anyone who wanted a Church in Arlington, Tennessee. voice at annual conference did Rev. Larry Woodruff received not receive voice. The committee two plaques (one each) on recommended non-concurrence behalf of Cub Scout Pack 452 of the resolution. and Boy Scout Troop 452, both Language Translation chartered by the church. For the second year, language Prayer translation interpretation services The chapel at Northside Unit- The youth of Northside Methodist Church sold box luncheons and were provided to Spanish-speak- ed Methodist Church was trans- snacks to delegates and visitors to raise money for their missions ing delegates and guests from formed into a “prayer room” – a and ministries. Page 9 / Summer 2016 Annual Conference Offering Christ continued place for delegates and visitors to go who “Foundation” status with the Memphis More Information needed a quiet place for prayer. Morning Conference More information – including video, prayer services with communion took place »»Learned about a July 2017 mission trip photos, a list of 2016 clergy appointments in the prayer room on three mornings. opportunity to travel to East Congo with and more – about the 2016 Memphis Annual Clergy Retirements Bishop McAlilly to, among other things, Conference is available on the Memphis build a center for women victimized by Monday’s clergy retirement recognition Conference website at www.memphis-umc. ongoing wars and conflicts service celebrated the Memphis Confer- net/2016AC or by emailing communica- »»Heard a report and watched a video about ence’s 13 retiring clergy: William Barnard, [email protected]. V the 2016 General Conference of The United Steven Callicoatt, J. Steve Cavitt, Harry Methodist Church that took Durbin, Stephen Mark Earheart, Larry Ken- place in May 2016 in Portland, drick, William Lawson, Paul Lynn, Emily Oregon Matheny, Tony Meek, Terry Presson, James »»Approved charge line changes Roper and Stanley Waldon. and church discontinuances “For everything there is a season, a time »»Learned about changes in the for every matter under heaven,” said Bishop Nashville Episcopal Area office McAlilly. “So, too, there is a time for move- staff in Nashville, Tennessee, ment, new adventure, fields of service not yet that took effect July 1 touched. With love, we send you forth in the »»Received reports from many spirit of John Wesley: May the world be your different committees, boards, parish.” agencies and affiliated -or Exhibits and Displays ganizations of the Memphis More than 40 organizations with ties to Conference Delegates joined hands to close 2016 Memphis Annual the Memphis Conference and The United Conference. (Photo by Lane Gardner Camp) Methodist Church had displays and exhibits in the gym at Northside United Methodist And then there were 4: Memphis Conference has Church. Streaming, Social Media reduced from 5 to 4 districts after Annual Conference and Mobile App By Lane Gardner Camp, Director of Communications [First published on website 6/6/2016] 2016 marked the fourth time the Memphis And then there were four. Annual Conference was streamed, allow- At the conclusion of the ing non-attendees to watch live from their 2016 Memphis Annual homes, churches and offices. Conference, the Memphis Using hashtag #2016mac, social media Conference of The United provided a way for conference attendees to Methodist Church reduced participate in online discussion before, dur- from five to four districts ing and after the event. in keeping with the district A new mobile app allowed delegates and alignment plan announced others access to annual conference informa- in April 2015. tion and materials in electronic and digital The Memphis Conference formats. is an area that includes ap- 2017 Memphis Annual Conference proximately 420 churches in West Tennessee and Western Delegates voted to meet June 4-6, 2017, Kentucky. at Collierville United Methodist Church in The remaining piece of Collierville, Tennessee, for the 2017 Mem- the new district alignment phis Annual Conference. was the merger after the Other Business 2016 Memphis Annual Con- Delegates and attendees also: ference (June 19-22) of the »»Participated in a Sunday afternoon Open Metro Asbury and Metro House at the nearby office of the Mem- McKendree Districts into phis Conference that included tours and a single district called the refreshments Metro District. »»Were welcomed to the city of Jackson on Rev. Tim Carpenter, pre- Monday morning by its mayor, Jerry Gist viously superintendent of »»Recognized the 60th and 20th anniver- the Metro Asbury District, is saries of the ordination of women and now superintendent of the new Metro Dis- 3476 Summer Avenue, Suite 201, Memphis, deacons, respectively, in The United Meth- trict as announced by Bishop Bill McAlilly, TN 38122. Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to odist Church resident bishop of the Nashville Episcopal 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday. The »»Remembered Bishop William Morris, who Area. phone number is 901-590-4820. died in January 2016. He served the Mem- “We ask everyone to be patient in the next Rosie Holland, current Asbury District phis Conference from 2000 to 2008. year as we experience the larger district and administrative assistant, is the administra- »»Recognized the Memphis Conference’s make decisions along the way in terms of tive assistant for the new Metro District. Her newest Wesley Foundation at Bethel needed additional staffing, creating strate- email is [email protected]. University in McKenzie, Tennessee. Previ- gies, merging ministry efforts, etc.,” said The Memphis Conference’s other three ously, it was a Wesley Fellowship, but Carpenter. districts are the Mississippi River District, was granted official recognition by Bethel The Metro District office is located at the Purchase District and Tennessee River University in January, paving the way for former Asbury District office location at District. V Page 10 / Summer 2016

General Conference Delegates share thoughts continued from page 5 serve in 16 lands. I was proud barriers, cultural differences, but with a thankful heart that Delegate Autura to have been a part of rais- different theological perspec- we have graced each other with Eason-Williams ing funds for the Imagine No tives, and speeches for and the time and space and the spiri- Malaria initiative. I was proud against... God graciously holds tual leadership to facilitate such to see mission and ministry us together in worship and change. We do not have to agree being shared from Angola to ultimately as the body of Christ. with each other, but we have to Zimbabwe, American Indians to Thanks be to God! love each other. Pacific Islanders, and Koreans to Jeffords: I know that God will shep- Hispanics. I became aware very quickly herd our efforts moving forward Each conference was given that while the General Confer- if we will but invite Him to the a Korean “peace cross” as a ence speaks for the Church, table. And we must after all; it is reminder of the peace and the way it behaves toward one His Table. reconciliation needed on the another is not indicative of any Bell: Korean peninsula. church I’ve served. The discon- As I prepared for General Burnett: nect between the General Church Conference, it was my constant The adjustment of the sched- issues and what we deal with on and abiding prayer that God ule from previous conferences the local level is significant. would bring clarity to the dif- meant that delegates were not ficult questions we face as a worshiping or meeting in the Q. Is there anything you would denomination regarding human Eason-Williams: evenings. This made the event like members of the Memphis sexuality. I have remained hope- I am in awe of the many lay- a much less tiring conference, Conference to know about Gen- ful throughout the process that ers of participation in the pro- but also meant some petitions eral Conference not covered by we might find common ground. cess of General Conference (be- were not considered by some the other questions? At General Conference, we fore, during and after) and the legislative committees and other Reed: asked our bishops to give lead- many people who care deeply petitions were never presented I arrived home physically and ership. Late afternoon on May about the future of the church. I to the conference. emotionally spent, but carry- 18 delegates voted to accept the am grateful to the many, many McCracken: ing with me a renewed spirit recommendation of the Council volunteers who give of time and As opposed to past General and a fresh awareness of the of Bishops to delay a debate on resources to serve this process Conferences, some of our best love, power and presence of the homosexuality and let a pro- as greeters, marshals and pages. leadership was conspicuously Holy Spirit in my life and in our posed commission study church One volunteer from Ohio met absent. What I suspect is that shared lives together as the fam- regulations. Delegates on both me and others at the airport and fewer United Methodists see ily of God. sides had mixed emotions to the not only told us how to ride General Conference as a relevant In the midst of the intense decision to refer. The bishops the train, but carried bags and part of the work of the Church. struggles and passions about suggested they might call a escorted us to our hotels. the future of this part of God's special General Conference in Eason-Williams: Jeffords: church, God's presence was 2018 or 2019 to deal with such I was honored to go and I have been to General on full display in small and proposals. Conference several times as an participate in the varied ways extravagant ways. I continue to be in prayer as I could as a reserve delegate. observer, but this was the first While our tribe known as we love one another and find our time as part of the delegation. I was especially thankful for United Methodist did not dis- way forward while maintaining a chance to work with Sky I was a reserve (delegate) and cover a way to agree on a very the unity of the body of Christ. grateful that the delegates let me (McCracken) and help prepare important matter that divides I am privileged to be part of the him for his introduction to the have experience on the floor all us, we did discover Christ was connection called United Meth- day Monday. The work of being Southeast Jurisdiction delegates. with us at the center of our dis- odists and to serve the Memphis We were/are so proud of how he a delegate is stressful, but even cussions and is still the One who Conference as a lay delegate to in the midst of voting on legisla- did, and even more so for who unites us in the family of God. General Conference. I thank you he is. V tion there is God who brings all I left General Conference with for your prayers as we move for- of us to the table with language the belief that change will come, ward through this process. God is not finished with the people called United Methodists! Burnett: Bishop (Bill) McAlilly presid- ed effectively during a stressful session. He handled his duties with dignity and grace, even amid false accusations. McCracken: There are some awesome peo- ple in our denomination who dearly love Jesus Christ and the Church. Their witness gives me hope and confidence that The United Methodist Church is Rev. David Atkinson of Collier- going to regain its method and ville United Methodist Church passion to make disciples. We Delegate served on the Marshal and Page are more than the issues that Isabelle Delegate Coordination Team at General gain the most press, but aren’t Dillard Elyse Bell Conference. the most pressing. Page 11 / Summer 2016 Two ‘young clergy elders’ reflect on time spent at recent leadership forum in Washington, D.C. [First published on website 5/1/2016] Two young clergy elders D.C., gave me the unique experi- represented the Memphis ence of seeing familiar faces at the Conference at the 2016 Young Forum and around the city. One of Clergy Leadership Forum,that the presenters, Giovanni Arroyo, took place Jan. 25-27 and was is a former seminary colleague of sponsored by the General Board mine, and now works at the United of Church and Society (GBCS) of Methodist General Commission The United Methodist Church. on Religion and Race. We reunited Rev. Dr. Angela Harris of and joyfully reflected on a mission Bolivar First UMC in Bolivar, trip we had been on together eleven Tennessee, and Rev. Jason W. years prior where we were learn- Jones of Lone Oak UMC in Pad- ing from and living with homeless ucah, Kentucky, joined young individuals living with HIV/AIDS clergy elders from around the in Bermuda. world on Capitol Hill in Wash- Another familiar face was recent ington D.C. for the event. Jones Wesley Theological Seminary served McKenzie First UMC graduate Laura Kigweba – a young in McKenzie, Tennessee, at the woman I had mentored through the time he attended the forum. initial steps of the clergy process, GBCS invited each annual and who is now serving a church From left, Rev. Dr. Angela Harris and Rev. Jason W. Jones attended conference to send two young in the Baltimore-Washington the Young Clergy Leadership Forum in Washington, D.C., in January. clergy elders currently serving Conference of The United Method- shared that, from a very young truly hospitable atmospheres in full time to learn about GBCS, ist Church. age, it was evident that he had our churches and ministries: those share ministry knowledge and The Forum also allowed time to problems hearing. And one of his wherein all persons are genuinely experience, create foundations get to know fellow Memphis Con- earliest memories is of sitting in a included. for future collaboration and ference clergy Jason W. Jones and doctor’s office with physicians and It was also wonderful to meet, build relationships with one other clergy from across the globe. his parents discussing whether he converse with and form connections another. All in all, I am thankful to have could be “fixed.” He said the experi- among other United Methodist Harris and Jones offered the had the experience to engage in ence was formative for his identity clergy from around the globe. From following reflections on their holy conferencing with new and as his reality was always framed Florida to the Philippines, Alabama 2016 Young Clergy Leadership old colleagues and friends, and to as losing his hearing; no one ever to Africa, there was a beautifully- Forum experience: hear about some of the engaging spoke of his gaining his deafness. diverse group gathered. And the Harris ways the Holy Spirit is moving in In other words, he said, he grew up opportunity to find similarity in and through The United Methodist I was honored to represent the believing he was incomplete or less- our contexts, experiences, and Church. Memphis Conference in tandem than; it’s been his faith that’s helped beliefs—as well as to sit with and with Rev. Jason W. Jones. A record- Jones him to comprehend the difference literally embrace one another amid making blizzard blanketed the city The three-day event featured pre- between cure and healing, and our sometimes-significant differenc- in the days before the Forum began, sentations and conversations that what it means to be a whole person. es—was for me nourishing in ways V closing airports and making travel helped attendees think deeper about Moreover, he helped us to ask I don’t often encounter. to the city, and around it, challeng- how we can be engaged in transfor- questions about how well we create ing. Three flights were cancelled mative mission and help to turn our before I was able to make it into the ministry contexts—which for most city a day late. More than a third of of us are congregations—toward a Get news and event info the speakers and participants never more deliberately-outward focus. made it in due to weather-related We heard from a number of about the Memphis Conference travel cancellations. speakers, including Dr. Susan Once I was able to join the group, Henry-Crowe who reminded us Website at it was a wonderful opportunity that “all ministry is standing in the of holy conferencing with young tension [that’s] never over.” Shane www.memphis-umc.org clergy from around the U.S. and the Claiborne brought the challenging globe. Conversations were shared word that movement “out of fear” about calling, our own context for leads to our “mak[ing] decisions eNews Free! Weekly ministry, and our hopes and dreams and act[ing] devoid of love.” And Sign up on Website www.memphis-umc.org for our own local churches, as well Dr. Sayyid Syeed of the Islamic as The United Methodist Church as Society of North America helped a whole. us to understand that while “faith Follow us on Facebook There were engaging and is sometimes misused,” for too informative speakers and break-out long “we’ve built not bridges but Facebook.com/memphisumc sessions for small group discus- mountains”—formed by ignorance, sion where we learned more about prejudice and hate. Follow us on Twitter GBCS, what they do, and how they Still, for me, the most meaning- Twitter.com/UM_MemphisConf would like to network with rising ful and thought-provoking message leaders around the connection. came from Dr. Kirk VanGilder of Follow us on Instagram Growing up in Tennessee and Gallaudet University, one of only Mississippi, and completing my two non-hearing, Ph.D. profes- Instagram.com@um_memphisconf seminary education in Washington, sors of religion in the world. He Page 12 / Summer 2016 Faith UMC in Oakland joins with two churches of other denominations to offer community VBS By Amanda Wiley, Faith UMC, Oakland, TN [First published on website 7/20/2016] Faith United Methodist terian and Colleen Pulliam of services to benefit Church (UMC) in Oakland, Faith UMC. local schools. It Tennessee, was bursting at This multi-denominational then became more the seams with Vacation Bible collaborative VBS has just personalized School (VBS) activity, June finished its third year at Faith as the churches 27-30. UMC by providing summer fun joined to share Outside on the lawn, two and learning to the children of special worship volunteers from Faith UMC, all three churches, as well as times, such as an along with two volunteers from children from the community. Ash Wednesday Cleaves Memorial Christian All three small churches ben- service and a Methodist Episcopal (CME) efit from combining resources, Tuesday night Church, also in Oakland, led a staff and children to produce Lenten series that mix of first and second graders a greater program than any is a tradition at in games. church might create by itself. Cleaves. In the Bible room, Faith This summer’s VBS, built In this past year, UMC’s pastor, Rev. Don Park, upon the deepening relationship Cleaves Memo- assisted Jakayla McCray of between the churches, proved to rial CME and Cleaves Memorial CME in expe- be the best attended and highest Faith UMC have riencing “walking on water.” spirited week the churches have begun a tradition Three small churches in Oakland, TN, part- Meanwhile, a host of volun- ever experienced. of “pulpit swap- nered this summer to offer Vacation Bible teers from Faith and Cleaves Faith UMC and Cleaves ping” – a Sunday School in their community. One of the three and Oakland Presbyterian Memorial CME have existed less morning worship churches was Faith United Methodist Church. Church were abuzz in the pro- than a mile from one another where each pastor (Photo by Amanda Wiley) duction of snacks for the VBS for years with little interaction. preaches at the participants and light meals for However, in the past several other’s church. churches and has expanded to the volunteers. years, a relationship has begun Perhaps the biggest coopera- serve the entire community. The snacks were carried to build between these two tive effort is the joint VBS that Members of Cleaves and Faith no outside to a group of preschool- congregations that supersedes the churches collaborate on each longer look upon each other as ers who ate while learning about differences in styles of worship. year. It began as an attempt casual acquaintances, but as ex- hunger and food pantries from The partnership began with to build bridges between two tensions of one church family. V Lynn Palmer of Oakland Presby- community-wide Thanksgiving United Methodist Women of Troy Cards available to educate and UMC sew and donate children’s answer questions about Memphis clothes to Reelfoot Rural Ministries Conference communications [First published on website 1/28/2016] [First published on website 6/6/2016] "The single biggest problem in communications is the illusion that The United Methodist Women (UMW) of Troy United Methodist it has taken place." – George Bernard Shaw. Church in Troy, Tennessee, recently donated children’s clothes they Do you wish your church members knew more about how made to the daycare center at Reelfoot Rural Ministries, an agency the Memphis Conference communicates with its churches and of the Memphis Conference of The United Methodist Church. members? Do you want to encourage them to be informed The garments included 12 pillow case dresses and 12 pairs of shorts. about Memphis Conference news, events and resources and With the help of their local Walmart, the UMW also donated 24 know how to submit story ideas or stories for publication? V t-shirts to go with the outfits. The Memphis Conference communications card (designed to be placed in a literature rack) includes a quote about the conference’s mission from Bishop Bill McAlilly of the Nashville Episcopal Area and provides information about how to access: • Memphis Conference website • Memphis Conference weekly eNews • Bishop’s Blog • Memphis Conference Facebook page • Memphis Conference Instagram • Memphis Conference Twitter • Circuit Writer (printable quarterly publication) • News N’ Views (retirees) • The Clarion (United Methodist Women) To receive some cards or for a PDF file to United Methodist Women of Troy United Methodist Church include, print a supply of cards, email communications@ from left, Ann McEwen, Novella Little, Ann Sampson, Anita Graff, memphis-umc.org or call Memphis Conference Barbara Eller, Monya Sanders and Paula Smith. Not pictured are Nan- Communications at 731-664-8480. cy Solmon, Barbara Buchanan and Mary Plummer. (Submitted photo) If unable to print, contact the Memphis Follow Bishop McAlilly on his Blog: Conference communications office at 731-664-8480 or communications@memphis- k www.bishopbillmcalilly.com k umc.org to request a card supply. V Page 13 / Summer 2016 A smile in El Salvador: member of Concord UMC in Paducah offers Jesus, aid in Central America By Casey Northcutt Watson [First published on website 7/18/2016] The music pulses, blaring violence. She hands bologna so loud Claire Douthitt has to sandwiches and apples to scream for her dance partner to children who huff glue to stave hear her over Bruno Mars’ “Up- off hunger. But the Salvadorian town Funk.” smile—the one that flits across Her partner doesn’t listen. The the faces of the hungry and the sun is shining, the song is fast destitute—keeps her flying back. and loud and he’s in the throes The resilience in these people of happiness. In his home, a attracts her. facility for handicapped adults Douthitt, and her teammates in San Salvador, El Salvador, at Starfish, want to infuse that dance parties are savored. This resilience with joy—the kind that dancer is completely present in comes from Christ. She believes this moment—moving, dancing, if these people meet Jesus, He’ll grinning. help bear the hardships of living Douthitt laughs and keeps in a developing, gang-ridden his left hand gripped in her nation. Salvadorians might be re- right. She notes his exuberance. silient, but they still need Christ. She’s seen it before during her “I’m not as concerned where previous trips to San Salvador. they’re living as [whether] they She’s met several locals through know that Jesus loves them,” conversations about the Gospel. Douthitt says. “Do they know Claire Douthitt,right, dances with a handicapped adult in San Sal- “We see people who are crazy that he hasn’t forgotten about vador, El Salvador. Douthitt, a member of Concord United Method- poor and are happier than people them?” ist Church in Paducah, Kentucky, has traveled to El Salvador six in the States who just have so This desire to spread the times, both with her church and with Starfish Orphan Ministry. She much,” she says. Gospel has been growing in has grown to love the people there. (Photo by Casey Northcutt Watson) Douthitt, 22, is a member Douthitt for years, encouraged of Concord United Methodist by her spiritual environment for this handicapped man in San resident, Jesus is standing by Church in Paducah, Kentucky. in Paducah. She says her small Salvador—the one who can’t him. Douthitt wants him to feel She’s visiting El Salvador with church of roughly 250 peopl, has stop moving to “Uptown Funk.” enveloped, covered and swept up Starfish Orphan Ministry, a helped foster her love for other She wants him to know whether in Christ’s love. She wants that to Paducah-based nonprofit orga- people and her passion to tell he’s dancing to Bruno Mars or be the source of his smile. V nization. The ministry strives to them about Christ’s message. sharing a filthy bed with another bring awareness to the plight of “We [at Concord United orphans and to adoption issues Methodist Church] have always while also providing easy ways been very mission-minded, and United Methodist Women of St. for people to serve others in I wouldn’t be in El Salvador need. without the United Methodist Stephen UMC in Memphis host This is Douthitt’s sixth time Church,” she says. Then, she ‘Friendship Dinner’ on June 14 visiting El Salvador. In the past, adds, “They have just been more she has traveled there with her supportive than I could have By Ruth Ann Ray, St. Stephen UMC church and worked in conjunc- every imagined. They rallied [First published on website 7/18/2016] tion with Starfish and a San around, not just the youth, but A United Methodist Women Friendship Dinner was held at Salvador-based nonprofit called everyone who wanted to do out- St. Stephen United Methodist Church in Memphis, Tennessee, Sus Hijos. She’s helped build reach in missions. … I wouldn’t on June 14. houses and run special events change my church family for the Everything from the decorations to the food was patriotic- for orphans and handicapped world.” themed in celebration of Flag Day. The food was picnic fare adults—people who don’t often If God’s will follows Douthitt’s and delicious down to the All-American Apple Pie! get to enjoy special activities out- own desires, she’ll return peri- The somber display of an empty table, representing the side their rundown facilities. odically to El Salvador and even- fallen soldier, brought a tear to many an eye and the number of This party is a treat for tually move somewhere overseas people who stood when their service branch music was played Douthitt’s dance partner. so she can tell even more people was stunning! The walls displayed pictures and memorabilia As the young woman dances about their Creator. shared by church members of those who served in the military and visits with residents, Spanish That plan will have to wait, or as first responders. rolls off her tongue. She laughs though. Douthitt, a recent Pastor Deb Christiansen opened the dinner with prayer. and jokes with the other facility University of Kentucky gradu- UMW President Ruth Ann Ray and member Wendy Pannell residents around her. She says ate, has just become a registered paid special tribute to the military veterans and several Mem- she has fallen in love with the nurse and will soon begin work phis Police officers who were in attendance. people living in this small, Cen- at the University of Kentucky’s St. Stephen’s most distinguished Army veteran, Eddie tral American nation. Albert B. Chandler Hospital. Spencer, was proudly dressed in his military uniform for the But, life in San Salvador isn’t She’ll work there for a while, evening. Yes, he is still able to wear it at age 95! all dance parties and happiness. and then ask God about her next The highlight of the night was the music presentation by On trips with Starfish and steps. Those could include a guests, Alicia Butler and Lisa Machen. Hearts were warmed Concord United Methodist missionary’s life in The United and faith in God and our country was renewed by this well- Church, Douthitt sees crushing Methodist Church. planned event. V poverty and hears stories of gang For now, all she can do is pray Page 14 / Summer 2016 Civil Rights activist James Meredith visited Centenary UMC in Memphis in June for event to mark 50th anniversary of his 1966 ‘March Against Fear’ By Kathryn Crawford, Centenary United Methodist Church, Memphis, TN [First published on website 7/18/2016] Centenary United Methodist Rev. James Lawson, then pastor of Memphis, only 25 percent be bold against the fight against Church, in collaboration with of Centenary United Methodist of registered voters chose to violence, fear and voter disen- Germantown United Methodist Church, along with Dr. Mar- participate. franchisement. Church, hosted an event on June tin Luther King, Jr., Stokely • Archie Willis, III, founder Meredith and both pastors 25 to mark the 50th anniversary Carmichael and others visited and president of Community reminded everyone of the of James Meredith’s March Meredith at Bowld Hospital and Capital in Memphis. Willis’ fa- teachings of John Wesley, one Against Fear. vowed to continue the March. ther, A. W. Willis, represented of the founders of Methodism. “A Call to Courage: Com- Centenary United Method- Meredith during his fight for The audience was left with the memorating James Meredith’s ist Church became the strategic enrollment in the University of Covenant Call to Courage and March Against Fear 50 Years headquarters. Members and Mississippi. He was a member Faithfulness, which included the Later” was the name of the others from the community kept of Centenary and present dur- charge to “readily acknowledge event that took place at Cente- the church open 24 hours a day ing the strategy sessions at the that racism, intolerance and hos- nary and highlighted the fact to house, feed and transport church in 1966. tility can permeate our lives, our that the community continues to marchers. Some members took • Vanecia B. Kimbrow, an culture and even our churches. grapple with the same shame- marchers into their homes. On attorney in Memphis who We speak compassionate inclu- ful and fearful events that were June 8, King led a group of 21 specializes in real estate and siveness, but far too often we taking place 50 years ago and to from Centenary to continue the community development law settle into patterns and practices enlighten a new generation. March. Meredith rejoined the in the nonprofit and govern- which defy this call of Jesus and Meredith was the honored March on June 25, 1966, after ment sectors. She charged his desire that we model how to guest and gave poignant remarks. celebrating his birthday with his upcoming generations to take live and how to love.” First, Meredith challenged the mother who had baked him a their place at the head of the Following in the footsteps of African American population homemade birthday cake. line to change their communi- James Meredith, who started to get behind making changes The Withers Collection Mu- ties. She admonished them to out alone, fear must be replaced in its own community. Accord- seum and Gallery in Memphis not just take advantage of the with enough courage to take the ing to Meredith, studies have shared an exhibit of the 1966 opportunities to improve their first step. Meredith started with shown that if every woman over March Against Fear. Cente- own lives, but to reach back five, but ended the march at the the age of 30 agreed to become a nary members, Rev. W. Frank and help someone else. capital in Jackson, Mississippi, godmother to a child, problems Jones, Mattie Jones and Vivian Because of the continued need with more than 15,000 followers, plaguing the African American Holmes shared reflections of for “a call to courage,” the ques- 220 miles later. V community could be reversed their life experiences during the tion was raised by Meredith: within 15 years. tumultuous 1960s in the South. “What are we afraid of?” He also emphasized the Dr. Marie Milam created a col- Meredith declared that if importance of teaching children lage reflecting the 1966 March we need “a call to courage,” the Ten Commandments and Against Fear, from beginning there is obviously the pres- “The Golden Rule” before the to end. ence of fear. These topics age of five. The correction to a There was also a panel discus- were explored during the community’s problems, accord- sion moderated by Dr. Charles panel discussion and the ing to Meredith, still lies within McKinney, Neville Frierson signing of the Covenant for the home. The family is the most Bryan Chair of Africana Studies Social Justice – signed by important piece of a child’s and an associate Professor of Dr. Deborah B. Smith, cur- development. History at Rhodes College in rent senior pastor of Cen- Congressman Steve Cohen Memphis. McKinney’s area of tenary United Methodist from the 9th Congressional scholarship includes the Civil Church, and Rev. Richard District made inspiring remarks Rights Movement. Smith, current senior pastor and commented on the fact that Panel participants included: of Germantown United Congress has failed to allow a • Dr. Maxie Dunnam, fifth Methodist Church in Ger- vote on the continuance of the president of Asbury Theo- mantown, Tennessee, east of 1965 Voting Rights Act. District logical Seminary in Wilmore, Memphis. 29 Tennessee State Senator Lee Kentucky, and pastor emeritus Both pastors expressed Harris, was also present. Ten- of Christ United Method- their disdain that we con- nessee State Representative John ist Church in Memphis. He tinue to discuss and fumble Deberry and Shelby County stressed the importance of the with issues that were Commissioner Willie Brooks church’s commitment to social present 50 years ago and proclaimed the day as a Day of action. He stated that the com- that continue to plague our Courage. munity cannot change without community. It is important Dr. Aram Goudsouzian, chair the church partnering with for the children of Christ to of the Department of History at leadership and taking a lead- TOP PHOTO: James Meredith, seated in front with his wife Judy, the University of Memphis and ing role as the moral compass. spoke at Centenary United Methodist Church (UMC) in Memphis, author of Down to the Cross- • A.C. Wharton, former mayor Tennessee, on June 25 to mark the 50th anniversary of his 1966 “March roads: Civil Rights, Black Power, of Memphis and Shelby Coun- Against Fear” in Jackson, Mississippi. Standing, from left, are Dr. and the Meredith March Against ty Tennessee. He reminded Deborah Smith, senior pastor of Centenary UMC, and Rev. Tim Car- Fear, was the guest speaker. attendees that, in Shelby penter, superintendent of the Metro District of the Memphis Confer- Goudsouzian spoke on the County, registering to vote is ence of The UMC, where Centenary is located. BOTTOM PHOTO: significant role Centenarians not the crux of the problem. From left are Rev. Richard Smith of Germantown UMC in German- played following Meredith be- Over 400,000 voters are on the town, TN, and Dr. Maxie Dunnam, pastor emeritus of Christ UMC in ing shot on the second day of roles; however, during the last Memphis, who participated in the event. (Submitted photos) the 1966 March Against Fear. mayoral election for the City Page 15 / Summer 2016 Here are Memphis Conference highlights from 2016 Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference

By Lane Gardner Camp, Director of Communications [First published on website 7/18/2016] “Lynn and I are delighted to The five bishops elected (in David R. Reed, Memphis be reassigned to the Nashville order of election) are: Conference lay leader and first Episcopal Area.” »»Sharma Lewis from the North elected lay delegate from the That was the message Bishop Georgia Conference assigned Memphis Conference to the Bill McAlilly posted on his blog to the Virginia Conference SEJ Conference, said after the a day after the conclusion of the (Lewis is the SEJ’s first African election, “While we are disap- 2016 Southeastern Jurisdictional American female bishop.) pointed that Sky was not elected (SEJ) Conference that ran July »»David Graves from the Hol- and certainly would have been 13-15 in Lake Junaluska, North ston Conference assigned to sad to lose him to the episcopa- Carolina, for which the theme the Alabama-West Florida cy, we rejoice that he will still be was Hope and Unity in Christ, Conference among those who ably lead our based on Hebrews 6:18-19a. »»Leonard Fairley from the Memphis Conference. He has McAlilly is the resident bish- North Carolina Conference such a wide range of leadership op of the Nashville Episcopal assigned to the Kentucky and gifts for the many opportunities Area that includes the Memphis Red Bird Missionary Confer- ahead.” and Tennessee Conferences. He ences McCracken’s vote count was elected bishop in July 2012 »»Lawson Bryan from the Ala- started with 106 on the first and assigned to the Nashville bama-West Florida Conference ballot and decreased with each Episcopal Area, beginning in assigned to the South Georgia succeeding ballot. September 2012. Conference If McCracken had been To read Bishop McAlilly’s »»Sue Haupert-Johnson from the elected, he would have been the Rev. Sky McCracken full mssage on July 16 about his Florida Conference assigned to first United Methodist bishop reassignment for 2016-17, visit the North Georgia Conference ever elected from the Memphis see Conferences gathered for a his blog at www.bishopbillm- Rev. Sky McCracken from the Conference, according to Ann reception on Thursday evening, calilly.com. It’s titled “Four Memphis Conference withdrew Phillips, archivist and historian July 14, to celebrate McAlilly’s More Years.” his candidacy for the episcopacy for the Memphis Conference, reassignment to the Nashville The SEJ Committee on Epis- before the ninth ballot. McCrack- and Dr. Joe Geary, director of Area, McAlilly said he was copacy announced 2016-2020 en was endorsed and nominated Connectional Ministries for the “deeply blessed” by the affirma- episcopal assignments and reas- by the Memphis and Tennessee Memphis Conference. tion he received from delegates signments on Thursday evening, Conferences. To read the text Phillips said there (have been) to the 2016 SEJ Conference. July 14, in Stuart Auditorium at of McCracken’s presentation to several bishops who started out Human sexuality Lake Junaluska Conference and the SEJ Conference’s delegates, in the Memphis Conference, but On July 12, the day before Retreat Center where the SEJ find this story on the Memphis Geary explained they were elect- the start of the SEJ Conference, Conference took place. Conference website at www. ed through other conferences the SEJ College of Bishops is- Episcopal elections memphis-umc.org. where their memberships were sued a statement that calls on McCracken, superintendent of at (the) time (of election). To the surprise of many, even United Methodists in the SEJ to the Purchase District and dean though two days and many bal- Standing ovation follow processes the denomina- of the Memphis Conference lots were anticipated for election At the opening of the late tion’s polity has in place while cabinet, posted on his Facebook of five bishops to fill the five afternoon business session on working to change or maintain page on July 13: “Thanks to all openings (created by five retire- Wednesday, July 13, Bishop the church’s current position of you for your affirmation and ments) in the SEJ, all five bishops McAlilly received a standing on human sexuality. To read support. I am a blessed man. were elected in ten ballots on ovation from the assembled SEJ the full statement, visit Bishop And we have elected five great one day by 375 delegates from 15 delegates in appreciation for his McAlilly’s blog at www.bishop- folks as our episcopal leaders.” conferences in nine states. calm episcopal leadership dur- billmcalilly.com. ing a difficult period at the 2016 Missional initiative General Conference in May in During the SEJ Conference, Portland, Oregon. the SEJ College of Bishops re- At General Conference, leased a statement of missional McAlilly was called to preside initiative for 2016-2020 that during a business session of con- Bishop McAlilly posted on his tentious debate about the United blog on July 14. Read it at www. Methodist Council of Bishops’ bishopbillmcalilly.com. “Way Forward” proposal that outlined steps for the church to Sej budget deal with issues of human sexu- The SEJ voted to reduce its ality. At one point, McAlilly’s 2017-2020 budget by 60 per- fitness to preside with fairness cent. The Memphis Conference and impartiality was questioned apportionment will be $53,009 by a General Conference del- ($13,252 per year). egate from another jurisdiction. The $1,774,000 budget passed After a recess, McAlilly returned as recommended by the SEJ to the chair and completed the Committee on Finance and Ad- session. ministration (CFA), chaired by As delegates and attendees Jim Allen, director of Adminis- From left: Liz McCracken, Larry Davis and Joe Geary from the Memphis and Tennes- Continued on page 16 Page 16 / Summer 2016 From Tanzania to Tennessee, Soard traveled over 8,000 miles to attend Memphis Annual Conference By Lane Gardner Camp, Director of Communications [First published on website 7/8/2016] Eric Soard probably said it best on his Facebook page with this Soard and his wife, Elizabeth (Liz), journeyed more than 8,000 June 14 post: “If this was camp and they gave awards (for) who miles from Tanzania, Africa, for his commissioning as a deacon dur- came from farthest away, I bet I would win.” ing the Service of Commissioning and Ordination. He was referring to how far he traveled to attend the 2016 Mem- The Soards had to take four planes and were 35 hours in transit. phis Annual Conference, June 19-22, in Jackson, Tennessee. One way. Eric was commissioned by Bishop William T. (Bill) McAlilly, Eric Soard, far right, resident bishop of the Nashville Episcopal Area that includes the traveled more than Memphis and Tennessee Conferences, and Bishop Cynthia Fierro 8,000 miles to attend Harvey, resident bishop of the Louisiana Conference, who was the his commissioning guest preacher for the service. as a deacon on June Soard lives in the Lake Zone of Tanzania, Africa, where he is 20 during the 2016 assigned and serves, along with Liz, as a United Methodist mission- Memphis Annual ary with the General Board of Ministries. Follow their blog at http:// Conference. (Photo by ingodslife.blogspot.com/ V Lane Gardner Camp)

SEJ Conference Memphis conference highlights continued from page 15 trative Services in the Tennessee Methodists were nominated »»Alternate Deborah Conference, who sang “Go Tell and elected to serve on General Watlington, Lam- it on the Mountain” as he deliv- boards and jurisdictional com- buth Memorial ered the CFA report. mittees. They are (in alphabeti- UMC, Jackson, Ever since a restructuring cal order): TN approved in 2008, the SEJ has »»Dr. Cynthia Davis of Christ CLERGY Dele- been trimming its budget. The United Methodist Church in gates (in order of 2012-2016 budget eliminated op- Memphis, TN -- SEJ Commit- election) were: erational funds to agencies, but tee on Investigations »»Sky McCracken, continued to fund debt service. »»Isabelle Dillard of St. John’s Purchase District Debt service payments will end United Methodist Church in superintendent, in 2016 and are not included in Memphis, TN – General Board dean of the Mem- the 2017-2020 budget. of Church and Society phis Conference In memory »»Rev. Autura Eason-Williams of cabinet and epis- Capleville United Methodist copal nominee Bishop William (Bill) Morris From left: Deborah Watlington and Autura Church in Memphis, TN – SEJ »»Eddie Bromley, was remembered Wednesday Eason-Williams Committee on Finance and Milan First UMC, morning, July 13, along with Administration Milan, TN »»Teller Elyse Bell, Paris First other SEJ bishops who have »»Bishop Bill McAlilly – SEJ »»Autura Eason-Williams, Ca- United Methodist Church, died since the 2012 SEJ Confer- Committee on Coordination pleville UMC, Memphis, TN Paris, TN ence. Morris formerly oversaw and Accountability »»Jonathan L. Jeffords, St. John’s »»Page Steven Louis Douglas, the Memphis and Tennessee »»Rev. Kristofer Roof of Peace UMC, Memphis, Tennessee East Trinity-Beech Bluff-Mt. Conferences. He retired from Tree United Methodist Church »»Alternate Cynthia D. Davis, Pleasant Parish, Jackson, TN the episcopacy in 2004 and died in Collierville, TN – SEJ Christ UMC, Memphis, TN »»Teller Autura Eason-Williams, in January 2016. Agenda Committee »»Alternate Steven Louis Douglas, Capleville United Methodist Boards and agencies Memphis conference East Trinity-Beech Bluff-Mt. Church, Memphis, TN During the SEJ Conference, Pleasant Parish, Jackson, TN »»Page Deborah Watlington, delegation Memphis Conference United Pages and tellers Lambuth Memorial United The Memphis Conference Methodist Church, Jackson, delegates to the 2016 SEJ Confer- Individuals from the Mem- TN ence are listed below. They were phis Conference (in alphabetical For more news from the 2016 elected at the 2015 Memphis order) who served as pages and sej Conference visit sejumc.org. V Annual Conference. tellers during the SEJ Confer- LAY Delegates (in order of ence were: election) were: Bishop Bill McAlilly »»David R. Reed, Martin First and wife Lynn UMC, Martin, TN –head of delegation »»Elyse Bell, Paris First UMC, Photos by Lane Gardner Paris, TN Camp. See more photos »»Sandra Burnett, Lone Oak from Southeastern UMC, Paducah, Kentucky Jurisdictional »»Isabelle Dillard, St. John’s Conference on the UMC, Memphis, TN Memphis Conference »»Alternate Delores Smith, Milan website at www. From left: Delores Smith and memphis-umc.org. Cynthia Davis First UMC, Milan, TN