JULY 2014 Passionate Worship — Loving God in Return Adam Hamilton shares advice on worship Annual Conference votes on reducing number of districts horse walks into a bar. The bartender asks, “Why the long face?” I walk into Annual Conference. A pastor asks, “Why the long hair?” I reply, “I’m growing my hair long to appear more relevant to a younger, more diverse population. It’s my own version of being edgy. I like to call it Fredgy. And when I decide it’s not working, it will be a lot easier to get rid of than a tattoo.” A Actually, my hair does have a story behind it. I usually get a haircut right before Annual Conference, so the people who only see me once a year have the illusion that I’m attentive to my personal grooming year round. But last year, two weeks Fred Koenig, Editor before Annual Conference, I got a cancer diagnosis. My oncologist told me that the Missouri Conference chemotherapy might cause all my hair to fall out, but it would probably take a few Publications weeks. Well, I wasn’t about to waste $7 on a haircut if my hair was going to fall out anyway, so I decided to wait and see. Published by The Missouri Those few weeks came and went with no hair loss, at least no more than I’ve been Conference of the United Methodist Church experiencing in the past few years anyway. But my next MRI scan was scheduled for 3601 Amron Court August 7. The results of that scan would determine if I needed more chemotherapy. Columbia, MO 65202 So I decided to put the haircut off for another month or so. By the time my August 7 scan rolled around, my hair was longer than it has Phone: 573-441-1770 been since high school. That scan came back clear. My next scan wouldn’t be until For inquiries February. I then hatched my plan – I would keep growing my hair, and then donate it regarding content: to one of those “Locks of Love” types of organizations that make wigs for kids with [email protected] cancer. It would be my way of being thankful for my own health, helping those who For inquiries aren’t as fortunate, and feeling self-righteous and extravagantly generous without regarding circulation: giving up one thin dime. Plus, unlike the people who only cut the end off of their [email protected] long pony tails, I am willing to cut my hair down to the scalp, so it shouldn’t take On The Cover: that much longer to meet the required eight-inch length. Renaldo (Mole) Cardoso I figured by this Annual Conference my hair would be very short rather than long, of the M’punzu Trio from having learned via the internet that hair grows about ½ inch per month. But I failed Mozambique provides music for passionate worship at to use basic geometry to calculate how, although you can add six inches to a single Annual Conference session. hair’s length in a year’s time, it takes much longer to pull those hairs together into an Photo by Eric Mattson. eight-inch pony tail. I knew my hair would cause a reaction at Annual Conference with people who hadn’t seen me since last year. On the plus side, I figured at least Annual Conference is one place I could go where having long hair doesn’t lead to a lot of people asking me if I know where they can buy some weed. Last year at Annual Conference I had a fresh incision several inches long at my waistline, this year it has healed to the point that it doesn’t look much different than the 35-year-old appendix scar that it mirrors on the other side. The effects of the chemotherapy have all but disappeared from my blood tests. I’m in a better place. In a much broader sense, I think most of the Missouri Conference feels the same way. Annual Conference is a time that we look back on the past year, while making plans for the future. Some of us have encountered unexpected challenges, but as Rev. Mark Sheets put it in Sunday morning worship, we can take faith in the fact that the best is yet to come.

Fred Koenig, Editor Missouri Conference Publications

2 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists JULY 2014 CONTENTS

IN THIS ISSUE A special thanks 4 Opening Worship: This is the Place to the Annual 6 Bishop Schnase Reviews Year of Progress Conference writers 8 Congregational Excellence: Keep Ringing the Bell listed below and to 9 Hayden Highlights Progress in Pastoral Excellence Eric Mattson, who 10 Hamilton: Listen to the Holy Spirit shot most of the 12 Mark Sheets Raises Hope by Expecting the Best Is Yet to Come photographs for 13 Districts Merged to Reduce Number from 12 to 9 this issue. 14 Worship Slam Tickles the Spirit EDITOR 16 Retirees Honored, News Leaders Commissioned Fred Koenig 18 Living Beyond the Walls: It’s All About People 19 Sunday School with Adam Hamilton WRITERS 20 Mission, Evangelism & Methodism Laura Blevins 21 Why We Build an Altar Pamela Dilmore 22 Estamos Juntos: We Are Together Pam Ekey 23 INM Giving Tops $1 Million Linda Gastreich 24 Pathways Partners Report Joy Jenkins 25 Laity Set Goals on Connecting & Learning, Missouri United Methodist Fred Koenig Foundation Supports Churches & Scholars Pat Marsh 26 Laity Session Calls for Focus on Disciple Making Susan Sneed 27 Bishop Schnase Encourage Clergy to Improve Worship 28 Making Faith Development Intentional PHOTOGRAPHY 29 Catalyst for Next Generation Ministries Reaches Out to Local Church Ministries Eric Mattson 30 Church Planters Meet Before Annual Conference Fred Koenig 31 Clergy Support Team Offers Changes to Equitable Compensation 32 UMW Reports on Mission 33 Missouri Conference Reduces Budget by .7 Percent 34 Denman Awards 35 Marble Mission Award & Social Justice Award 36 CMU Plans Linn Memorial Church Improvements 37 CMU to Start Center for Faith & Service 38 Demystifying the Appointment Process 40 2014 Missouri Conference Appointments 47 Calendar of Events

www.moumethodist.org 3 Opening BY PAMELA DILMORE Worship 4 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists THIS IS THE PLACE asked God to fill people with love, Jones. She greeted everyone who shake them up, wake them up, and arrived for worship by shaking s church the place where walk with God. their hands and saying, ““Good we truly experience and Collier invited the Conference morning, I’m prayed up and I’m passionately worship God? to consider a story about the song ready. Are you ready?” How did Where lives are changed? of musician Ken Medema, who she bring her joy to worship? By Where people can fly? wrote a song called “If This is Not praying and reading the Bible Where people can cry? the Place.” The song emerged from BEFORE worship. “Worship IWhere people can seek? These a worship experience that led him is not about ourselves but about questions resonated throughout to ask: “Does anybody know my God, Collier reminded us. “Do the opening worship experience at name?” The song was written for more than coffee and doughnuts. Annual Conference Session. The the one named Struggler, a person Do some pre-worship prayer praise band, Arisen, from Woods who was struggling and hoping and Bible reading. Bring a Sister Chapel UMC of Lee’s Summit, someone would just open to him. Jones spirit!” Help people fly in a stirred enthusiasm as well as “If This is Not The Place” raised spirited, joyful church! memories for many boomers with three questions around which Where Can I Go to Cry? People the song, “Jesus is Just All Right Collier challenged and inspired who experience loss and pain need with Me.” the conference. Where can I go to a place where they feel as though Praise music, with its fly? Where can I go to cry? Where they can start again. Folks come to connections to worship songs in can I go to seek? church with tears, and sometimes the Psalms, lifts us by lifting up Where Can I Go to Fly? People church needs to be a place to cry. God’s nature and actions. are searching for passionate worship We never know what is happening. They name and celebrate who that is authentic, alive, creative, and We need to feel their tears and cry God is and what God has done engaging, where they experience with them. for us. Arisen’s music stirred the life changing presence of God Where Can I Go to Seek? the conference to passionate in the presence of others. Collier Folks come with questions that celebration and love for God. The shared that much too often we ultimately should help them move theme for the Missouri Annual try too hard to “order” worship. to faith. Questions need to be Conference is “Loving God in Or musicians in the praise band heard. Years ago, Collier counseled Return: Practicing Passionate are too focused on what they are with a man who had problems Worship.” The Conference sang doing rather than on God. We with alcohol and drugs. together, “Here am I to worship, wonder why worship becomes He asked, “Does God still love here am I to bow down, Here am I routine. We need passion. We need me?” Collier encouraged him to be to say that You’re my God.” to experience the Holy Spirit. He a part of an imperfect church., but Rev. Cody Collier, Special challenged the Conference to invite it was a member who ultimately Assistant to the Bishop for the Spirit to move in us so the spirit succeeded in getting him there. Leadership Development, stirred can move through us to others. The member picked him up and our hearts with a passionate set of Collier’s biblical text, Psalms brought him to church. His wings questions about worship and about 42 1-5, 8, and 11, begins with took flight. He began to cry. He churches. He asked “Are you a psalmist’s struggle with a became a part of the church. He happy?” He acknowledged that we longing for God, asks where God said, “I’m here.” may be tired and we may wonder is, and questions the feeling of When someone asked him later why we came. He reassured us, “If being downcast as he anticipates what he wanted to do, he said, we are tired, it’s all right, because worshipping God. Yet, the “I want to join the choir. When God is here. We are here. We psalmist ends with “Hope in asked if he could sing, he said, give thanks to God because God God; for I shall again praise him, “No, but I got a song.” The man is happy you are here!” Then he my help and my God.” Collier was left with the name “Disciple” challenged people to return God’s reminded us that we are like the not “struggler!” It happened at love in worship and to get out psalmist who longs for God’s church. Collier celebrated and of their seats and offer the love presence. He asked us if we bring challenged us with these words: of God to our world. His prayer our joy to church like Sister “This IS the place!”

www.moumethodist.org 5 5. Collaboration: We do not work in silos, we work together, church to church, district to district in creating ministry that works. “Our Five Practices are guiding our local congregations,” continued Bishop Schnase, referring to Radical Hospitality, Passionate Worship, Intentional Faith Development, Risk-taking Mission and Service, Extravagant Generosity. “Who we are is illustrated in how we function under each practice. These are the principals and practices that drive us and define our United Methodist culture in Missouri.” A focus on Congregational Excellence and Pastoral Excellence developed in the restructuring process. These, said Bishop Schnase, are two are fundamentals in insuring our mission as a Conference will be successful. “This year, I will spend time teaching the Seven Levers book in other conferences,” said Bishop Schnase. It tells the story of the Missouri conference and its transformation over the past 10 years. There has been seven strategies essential to a conference to fulfill its mission. “They have been hammered out here by all of us on a day by day basis.” Those strategies include a strategy for: 1. Starting New Congregations: issouri Bishop Robert mission: Leading congregations They reach younger, unchurched Schnase once again to lead people to actively follow people better and have multiple Mwelcomed all to the 2014 Jesus Christ. This is the purpose of impacts on every level. All Annual Conference. He lifted up this the annual conference, to lead the congregations were new once and year’s count of 850 congregations, congregations. were supported by others. 2. Clergy Peer Learning: Clergy are 1,000 active and retired clergy A part of acting on that mission is more likely to be shaped by peer 170,000 members and 80,000 in the Five Expectations: learning more than any other way. attendance on any given Sunday. 1. Christ-Centered: Our work 3. For Congregational Intervention: “This is my 10th annual conference begins and ends in Christ and we HCI is one way of dealing with with you,” Bishop Schnase said. are to treat each other in a Christ the 85 percent of churches “I celebrate what an extraordinary like manner. growing older and smaller. year it has been in what we’ve been 2. Fruitful: Focused more on the 4. Cultivating Clergy Excellence: learning and doing.” outcomes and results than what Review and continually improve Since the 2013 annual conference we put into something. the whole system. What works, there has been an emphasis on finding 3. Excellence: never accept or what doesn’t, what needs to new ways to create and strengthen allow mediocrity. change, and what are the congregations and clergy. 4. Accountability: We are willing to obstacles. The Missouri Conference has a evaluate and correct each other in 5. Aligning Budgets and Resources: very distinct focus on a well-defined all our ministries. Being intentional about returning

6 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists resources to the local church; “Our merger (of the Missouri East no one knows or likes, hissing or putting clergy and congregational and Missouri West Conferences) inoperable sound system, ushers excellence first. was still new when I came,” said milling around, worship leaders 6. Creating Technically Elegant Bishop Schnase. “This year the not speaking to each other, choir Governance systems: Reducing conference trustees broke ground members doing crossword puzzles, the number of committees and on the conference building’s new pastors telling self-congratulatory members to be more streamlined; expansion. This feels like the final stories, etc. In worship, congregations doing actually ministry, not just step in the merger.” should offer their best, utmost and going to meetings. Another change this past year highest. It should be clear that very 7. Reconfiguring Annual was the launch of The Missouri intentional preparation has gone on to Conference Sessions: Less Methodists magazine. It was create a space for worship people can’t time on business and more initiated by Fred Koenig, Conference wait to attend and come willing to worship, reconnecting, learning, publications editor, when the regular be shaped by the Holy Spirit. It takes reinforcing who we are and Conference newspaper partner UMR careful preparation and cooperation what we do. Communications ceased publication. with all the leaders involved. It Bishop Schnase commended “We have really stepped up in is the most important ministry a the book to the membership in quality with this magazine,” said hopes it will help congregations Bishop Schnase. congregation can offer to understand the Annual Conference Roger Drake has begun his tenure a community. and its people. This is a reflection of as the new president of Central “The people of this room should act what the Conference has done and Methodist University. He is looking as if worship is the most important continues to do. forward to expanding spiritual hour of the week,” said Bishop The Bishop continued by lifting direction and formation for the CMU Schnase. “If they don’t, no one up the ministries that have been student body. Saint Paul School of attending will believe worship is hallmarks of the Conference. Imagine Theology has sold its campus, moved important at all.” No Malaria , led by Jill Wondel and in with Church of the Resurrection Clergy and laity should always Jennifer Long, had raised $934,029 and reoriented its curriculum more working to be the best. That includes prior to Annual Conference Session. toward the practice of ministry. learning together through reading This was been done through the Converge, the annual gathering of and conferences, evaluating each efforts of youth groups, UMW and clergy for learning and renewal, will other, and being willing to be held UMM, and whole congregations. be September 8-10. SERVE had over accountable. Worship should be a part Palmyra UMC inspired the Missouri 300 congregations participate last of every activity. Men and women campaign by pledging $10,000 last year, impacting over 90,000 lives. together, should plan and pray. Laity year, and the church paid off that Other ministries congregations have should be trained and anxious to be pledge in April. It has been a cause participated in include things like a part of taking part in worship, and passionately embraced by the whole Haiti Water Project and Ludianna taking it out into the world. “People Conference. An offering taken later Christian Medical College and should be changed by worship, and in Annual Conference Session pushed Hospital. there should be evidence of the Holy the total to more than $1.2 million “Practicing Passionate Worship Spirit working in their lives.” is our focus of this year’s Annual (see page 23). The challenge of strengthening In the Mozambique Initiative, 200 Conference,” said Bishop Schnase. worship should be an ongoing effort pastors are receiving support from “To worship speaks of devotion to in every congregation. That should Missouri congregational partners. God and passionate speaks of an extend to the surroundings where The ministry highlight this year emotional connection beyond the people worship: the hallways, the has been the opening of Gondola intellect, to offer the best. Whether Training Center. 15 or 1,500, people are anxious to coffee fellowship area, the parking Another development in the come and be a part of the service.” lot and the class rooms. The whole Conference is the announcement Bishop Schnase spoke of his own church should be immersed in prayer that an addition will be built onto impressions of congregations when he for the sake of worship excellence. As the Conference Center in Columbia visits. He learns a great deal about the Rev. Cody Collier said earlier, there so that the office of Mission, Service pastor and church, and their standard should be a practice of pre-worship as and Justice ministries can move from of excellence. He wonders, however, a regular practice in the church, with its current space it is renting into the if these are all the preparations for everyone praying for the service and Conference Center. The Missouri his visit, what is it like on a regular its participants. Passionate worship United Methodist Foundation also Sunday? Things stand out for Bishop begins with our love of God and intends to move its office to the Schnase as signs of lack of passion willingness to set ourselves aside to let Conference Center. for worship: a cluttered altar, hymns God in, said Bishop Schnase.

www.moumethodist.org 7 Congregational Excellence: Keep Ringing the Bell

BY PAMELA DILMORE

ev. Bob Farr, a Director of Congregational Excellence, stirred conference enthusiasm with his presentation of the work and efforts of creating R excellent congregations in Missouri. The strategies include the Healthy Church Initiative, Small Church Initiative, Hispanic Ministries, and New Church Starts. He recalled that when he went to church as a boy, his job was to ring the bell. Sometimes the bell got stuck. He used the memory as an image for congregational excellence. “The job of Congregational Excellence is for churches to ring the bell as often and hard as they can. Sometimes it gets stuck!” he said. Healthy Church Initiatives deals with transforming existing churches. Ten years ago, he asked “What would it look like to transform our churches?” HCI set a goal of 100 church consults over ten years. He reported that the team has been in 114 churches. HCI has been in every district and consulted with churches that want to work for transformation. He challenged the conference by saying, “If you haven’t done anything. TRY SOMETHING.” The challenge was a loud ring of that bell he described at the beginning of his presentation. In the work of New Church starts, the ten year goal was 30 new churches. In the past 8 years, Missouri has started 35 new congregations. Of these 35 starts, 21 have been successful. The new churches have brought in 3,500 new worshippers. Missouri has been placed in the top five conferences in the nation for new church plants. Several restarts and second campuses are underway in 2014. In the work of Hispanic Ministries, they have discovered the bilingual congregations bring in more people. He praised the ministry of a bilingual congregation in Carthage. He expressed gratitude for the work and ministry of Geovanna Huffman, who has moved to do ministry in Texas. Suzanne Nicholson is beginning as the Associate in Congregational Excellence. Missouri has more multicultural churches than any conference in America. A new Islander congregation with several groups of people from Pacific islands has begun in Independence. It is the only Islander church in the Midwest. Many churches have been planted by people who are laity, and a program is being developed to certify and empower more laity in the ministry of new church starts. Leadership development and workshops provide inspiration and training for starting and restarting new congregations. Farr told us how proud he is to “fly home” to the churches in Missouri after he has been in other conferences. In all these ministries of Congregational Excellence, Farr said, “We are trying to ring the bell!”

8 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists BY PAM EKEY

aren Hayden, Director of their baptisms and understanding that November 3-4 at Cross Pointe Camp Pastoral Excellence, was asked they are all ministers seriously. Eight and Retreat Center. Kto count the number of exterior college students will be interning After a one-year pause in the doors to her church a number of years in ministry settings throughout the Pastoral Leadership Development ago. She recalls that her congregation conference this summer. program, Pastoral Excellence is ready was humbled to learn all the ways that One additional student, Kris Keller to unveil the new Compass program. could be found to get into the building. of Springfield, is a Cole Summer Hayden said it is designed to promote Likewise, it is surprising to think about Seminary Intern. In partnership with resources to strengthen a pastor’s all the ways to invite people to enter the Missouri Methodist Foundation, spiritual life and pastoral effectiveness. into ministry. Keller will be an intern at King’s Way Over a two-year period, participants She led her report with a summary UMC in Springfield. will participate in eight large-group of the ways people are invited into Missouri Fellows is a new program gatherings. Pilot testing for the ministry in the Missouri Annual developed in partnership with new program is now underway. It is Conference. Through the Board of the Missouri United Methodist anticipated that the program will be Ordained Ministry and the Call Foundation. Two persons have been opened to interested clergy in 2015. Culture Commission, Pastoral selected to receive two-year fellowships The Office of Next Generation Excellence offered two Candidacy to work as a staff member with an Ministry has been formed through Summits for persons entering the experienced pastor and a committed Pastoral Excellence in order to bring candidacy process. There, participants congregation. They are Chris Abel, together youth-age ministry, college- share in worship, relevant workshops serving at The Gathering in St. Louis, age ministry and camping and retreat and covenant groups as they work with and Jennifer Moxley, who will be on ministry under one umbrella, allowing a mentor to prepare to meet with their the staff of First UMC in Sikeston. the ministries for persons between 12 particular district Board of Ordained Fellows may be Missouri-certified and 25 years of age to be directed by Ministry. In August 2013, 34 attended candidates in seminary, seminary one person. Garrett Drake is directing the Candidacy Summit, and 27 graduates, or licensed local pastors. The the new office. attended the January 2014 session. program is intended to cultivate leaders Hayden also said that Pastoral The Hannah Project encourages who would not otherwise have such a Excellence and the Board of Ordained laity to help with the recruitment and ministry experience, she said. Ministry have asked Wade Giffin nurture of candidates for ordained There are a number of opportunities and Sue Nilson Kibby to serve as ministry. Four ways a congregation to foster excellence among clergy consultants to examine the entire can participate in the Hannah Project throughout the conference. The first is clergy ordination process. A task include: celebrate Ministry Sunday, the 48-hour Converge seminar which force also has been formed to make sponsor a seminary student, sponsor will be held in Joplin this year. Clergy recommendations for future Pastoral an exploration of ministry event and also may participate in a renewal Excellence changes and initiatives. support seminary scholarships. “I do leadership weekend not know of a single pastor, that even through the Soderquist after accepting their call to ministry, Center. Soderquist who did not get nervous and question weekends are offered in that call,” Hayden said, “While I think Arkansas, Texas or New that is healthy, we need persons ‘at the Mexico. Information door’ skilled in supporting persons in about the weekends may their vocational discernment.” be found at soderquist.org. Pastoral Excellence also sponsors Another new initiative college-age interns. “If you have ever is the development of doubted that there is a future for the Soul Connections, a United Methodist Church in Missouri, 24-hour opportunity for I want you to meet our 2014 college spiritual renewal. The interns,” she said. These persons take first is scheduled for

www.moumethodist.org 9 Hamilton: Listen to the Holy Spirit BY FRED KOENIG

hen Adam Hamilton was ordained in week of prayer, praying really fast up and down the aisles. Missouri, Annual Conference Session was The first couple of services, I felt dead and hollow. Then, at Central Methodist University in Fayette, when I was praying before the next service, I heard the W and ordination was at Linn Memorial Holy Spirit say, ‘I’m going to show you what it’s like when UMC. That was 27 years ago, and he was 22 years old. He I help you’,” Hamilton said. graduated high school and college early, and was enrolled His wife attended the first and last service. After the in seminary. last service, she asked how he had found time to change “I wanted to save the world, but I wasn’t sure how,” sermons between the two. The last sermon was moving Hamilton said. “The bishop asked about three general people throughout the sanctuary. After the first sermon rules. I couldn’t remember what they were, but I agreed to people only commented on liking the music. practice them. Bishop Handy and Bishop Frank laid hands “The New Testament says the spirit will give you on me, and pressed down hard. Bishop Handy had this power,” Hamilton said. “The spirit speaks all the time. The bellowing voice that sounded like the voice of God.” problem is, I’m usually not listening.” This year Hamilton was the preacher for the ordination Hamilton told how once when he was changing flights service in the Missouri Conference. He’s well known as in the Atlanta airport, he saw a man on the ground who pastor of Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas, had just experienced a heart-attack. At first he just said a 20,000 member church that is the largest church in the a prayer for him and went on, but he felt nudged by the Kansas City area and the largest United Methodist Church spirit, so even though security made him stay back, he in the world. returned to the man and prayed for him at a distance until Hamilton reminded the ordinands that it is the Holy the emergency medical technicians took him away. Spirit that does the work, relaying how the day before That next Sunday after church, Hamilton was when he flew home from the Dakotas, he tried to call his approached by a member who said he was having a very wife from the airport, but his phone was dead. rough week. His father had a heart attack at the airport “My iPhone can do amazing things, but without power it in Atlanta that week and died. He couldn’t get over the is worthless,” he said. “If you don’t have the spirit’s power, thought of him dying on the floor of the airport alone. all the degrees and certificates you have mean nothing. Hamilton shared that he was with his father, praying for Our own power is grossly inadequate for the task we have him, when he passed. at hand.” “It was a God moment, and I almost missed it,” he said. He told the story of a big Christmas Eve service he had In another instance, Hamilton had been out to a coming up at Church of the Resurrection, and as he was restaurant before church, and the waitress ended up sitting walking into the church, he heard the Holy Spirit say, down with him for half an hour, talking to him about faith. “You didn’t pray much this week, did you?” He shared this with the congregation as an illustration of “So I ran into the church and tried to make up for a how they can share their faith wherever they go.

10 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists A few days later he was at a different restaurant, needing to do some work on a manuscript of his book, and a couple of women from his church saw him, and asked them to join them for dinner. At first he declined the offer, because he needed to work on his book. But then he felt nudged by the spirit again, so he did join them. One of the women shared how she had only started attending church again a few weeks ago, having quit three years prior when she had gotten divorced. When Hamilton told the story about sharing his faith with the waitress the previous Sunday, she had prayed, “Jesus, I wish he would sit down to talk with me sometime.” A couple of weeks later, the woman’s adult sons were in church, and they approached Hamilton and told him that he wouldn’t believe the impact that sharing that one dinner with their mother had on her life. Hamilton concluded with the Robert Louis Stephenson story about the young boy watching the lamplighter work his way down the street, who, when asked what he was doing, replied, “I’m watching that man knock holes in the darkness.” “That’s what you are to do with the power of the Holy Spirit, knock holes in the darkness,” he said. Those who were ordained elder in full connection were Ronald James Beaton, Adam K. Caldwell, Emily Lorraine Carroll, Michael D. Costanzo, Trevor Dancer, Lucas Endicott, Alice Frescoln Fowler, Trista Denae Soendker- Nicholson, Keith Vessell, and Bryan Wendling. Missouri Bishop Robert Schnase was presiding Bishop. Bishop Ann Sherer-Simpson, who was Bishop of the Missouri Area from 1992 – 2004, also participated in the service. Music was provided by First UMC of Salem in the Ozarks North District.

www.moumethodist.org 11 Mark Sheets Raises Hope by Expecting the Best Is Yet to Come BY PAM EKEY

“The best is yet to come,” on the table. Sheets tried to get the is yet to come? Aren’t you the ‘heaven Mark Sheets declared at the Sunday waiter to take the fork, but the waiter is for real’ people? Doesn’t it get morning service of worship and said, keep the fork, the best is yet to better? they ask.” remembrance. He suggested that come. Soon the waiters brought out Sheets said the Bible tells us the sometimes we set our expectations great trays filled with Baked Alaska best is yet to come. Revelation 21 too low and forget that God has for each diner. describes a new heaven and a new promised the best is yet to come. Too often in church we are willing earth, a description of the best that Sheets, pastor at Good Shepherd to settle for what we know and are is yet to come. In verse 4 it says United Methodist Church, delivered comfortable with – the hot dog and that God will wipe every tear from the sermon in a service that was French fries – rather than trust God our eyes, death will be no more. inspiring and uplifting. that the best is yet to come. Mourning and crying and pain will He recalled that as a boy of 12, he “Why don’t we say that more be no more. “If that reading doesn’t accompanied his family on an ocean often?” he asked, “Why don’t we help us believe the best is coming cruise. During the day, he and his think the best is yet to come? Is life so in the next life, I don’t know what brother were allowed to run all over good we can’t expect any better?” will. It gives me hope that we will be the ship, but the family gathered Maybe pastors are in the dream reunited with those who have gone each night for dinner together. The appointment and can’t think that it from this life to the next,” he said. menu had many delicious entrées can get any better. Or the church is As a people of hope, we can to choose from, and it was possible doing well, growing, with vibrant expect that the best is yet to come to order things that were not on the groups and outreach, and you think now, in the present, he said. The menu, as long as the ingredients were it can’t get any better. Or at the Bible records many instances of available in the kitchen. Faced with other end of the spectrum, a church God’s active presence in the world. that extensive menu of possibilities, is struggling with problems and “The best is yet to come is a right Sheets recalled that every night he declining membership, and it wonders now thing. God has been actively ordered a hot dog, French fries and if the best is yet to come. “I can’t help involved in the present since before cold milk. On the last night, as the but wonder if the people who haven’t I was born,” he said. “We have to waiter whisked away his empty plate met Jesus are just as confused,” Sheets ask ourselves if we truly believe in a and silverware, he placed a fork back said, “How can you not think the best future with hope,” he added.

12 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists We set our expectations for Dennis Carroll Bowling, Gary K. worship too low when we do not Brown, Peter T. Burks, William expect that the best is yet to come. Butts, Jr., James S. Kabler, Carroll “If we can’t figure out something,” Clark, Gene E. Cole, Dennis R. he said, “It is because we haven’t Craft, Robert E. Darby, Paige Morris seen it, we haven’t heard it yet. But Detlefson, Sharon Kay Garfield, the God who has seen it all from the John E. Gregory, Sr., Lawrence L. beginning can see that the best is yet Holt, James S. Kabler, William R. to come.” Radford, Hubert G. Robertson, “If I allow myself to narrowly Edward D. Robertson, Eloise Marx define passionate worship so that all Shoults, Frank Stever, Daniel Edward the details line up, I wonder who I Stratmann, and David A. Wyatt. am hurting,” he asked. “I wonder Deceased spouses in the past year if it is what we bring to the table, include Melba D. Akers, Margaret rather than what we get from worship Allen, E. Wayne Asher, Maxine Nora that makes passionate worship,” he Breeden, Audra Warren Browne, continued. Perhaps my focus should Martha Lee Butts, Judith T. Darby, shift to what God is going to receive Bessie Alice Eisenhauer, Judy Carol from me rather than what I am Hafley, Velma Susan Harmon, going to receive from God so my Leonard L. Jamerson, Cyrus S. Keller, expectations about worship are raised. Helen Pinson, Phyllis Geraldine As a people of hope we can assert White, James Bliss Wilder,Jr., Gloria that the best is yet to come and God Gene Williams, Fern B. Wright, and has got it under control. Doris Blanche Zacher. During the service the names of From the Mozambique Annual Missouri Conference clergy who Conference, Rev. Titos Panzela have died in the past 12 months were Nhancale and a clergy spouse, read as a bell tolled for each one. Regina Simelane Mabunda, were Clergy included: C. Richard Blount, also remembered.

he Missouri Conference now three times,” Collier said. “So with nine Council also took up the issue, and Thas nine districts rather than 12, district superintendents and 12 districts, approved of reducing the number of approved by a nearly unanimous vote there have been some questions about districts to nine. with no debate. whether Bishop Schnase might lead us “It is formalizing what we are already “I wonder if there has ever been a time into redistricting before he moves to doing,” Hammons said. in the history of United Methodism that another assignment.” Before the vote, Hammons presented a Conference voted that smoothly and Mid-State District Superintendent an amendment to the proposal, giving quickly on reducing districts,” Bishop Lynn Dyke said the cabinet has the United Methodist Women and Robert Schnase rhetorically asked after considered the idea, discussing number United Methodist Men until 2016 to the vote. of churches, population and driving restructure their officers and budgets Preceding the vote, Special time. They also looked at financial to fit the newly aligned districts. The Assistant to the Bishop for Leadership implications. amendment was adopted. Development Cody Collier explained “We talked about money, and our Beginning July 1, the Pony Express how since Bishop Schnase would belief that the Conference would and Heartland North districts merged, only be in Missouri two more years, not want to go back to having 12 the Ozarks North and Ozarks South it is time to finalize some of the district superintendents, as this would districts merged, and the Heartland experiments that have been started. add approximately $450,000 to the South and Heartland Central Districts “One of the experiments Missouri has Conference budget,” Dyke said. merged. In the coming year district tried is having one superintendent serve Missouri Conference Lay Leader boundaries will be adjusted to best two districts – and we have done that Brian Hammons said the Mission impact ministry. www.moumethodist.org 13 Worship Slam Tickles the Spirit

BY LINDA GASTREICH

teve Jones, master Missouri United Methodist Church in group delivered more music with of ceremonies Columbia, said the goal of the event Bollinger once stepping up to the of Friday night’s was to offer something different— microphone to sing in Xitswa, a “Worship Slam” something “not on everyone’s normal Mozambican dialect. said he hoped palette” and to help churches think The worship offerings were widely church members about “creating their own new mixture varied and included blues, rap, prayer and pastors would of worship.” as poetry, mime, readers’ theatre and leave the event The M’Punzu Trio, a jazz ensemble an interactive reading of the story in contemplating from Mozambique, and Sarah a series of 5-minute presentations. worship in new ways. “Hopefully, Bollinger, Mozambique Initiative While the worship elements were Sit will tickle their spirits,” said the Director and professional musician, diverse, the evening was unified former actor, now attorney and set the tone for the evening, playing by the parable of the lost sheep as soon-to-be appointed Licensed as conference delegates arrived for found in the Gospel of Luke. Each Local Pastor. Jones, who attends dinner. Later in the evening, the element provided a different reading

14 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists or reflection on the parable. Said Jones, “Tonight we are sharing just a small selection of ways to enter into worship creatively and energetically.” Jones said he was hoping the evening was more than just an experience of sight and sound. “I hope people leave here tonight thinking about the Scripture in a different way. What we are offering this evening can tickle the spirit—but then it ought to tickle the brain and prompt us to find fresh understanding of a familiar passage.”

www.moumethodist.org 15 The highlight of every retirement service is the words of encouragement, thanks and humor shared by retiring clergy. This year was no different. The service music was provided by Psalm 100 of Fredericktown UMC with Scripture reading by Rev. Mamie Pero. The offering was designated for Heifer Project International.

16 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists Mary Beth Anderson Ron Brooks Paul Catteron Gail Davis Jack DeWees

Remel Grey Bob Howard Michael Kelp Julius Ketsenberg David Maggi

Richard Parker Mamie Pero Ann Rathert Rodger Rice Paul Zimmerman

etirees included Diaconal Minister Mary Beth me to be a better pastor, both in administration and Anderson who noted that “God has forgiven the in pastoral care. My passion for justice has been bet- wrongs and blessed the right. AND no more ter served in the church than the courtroom. Rpaperwork!” Deaconesses Shay Blackwell and Gail • Mamie Pero: God sent me as a stranger to you and Davis were noted for the ministries with the poor and you welcomed me. with families. Deacon Janice Tucker gave thanks for the • Roger D. Rice: Love is what it is all about. ministry she was blessed to do and the people she was • Paul Zimmerman: I have seen the very best in me able to meet. and the worst in me...and Christ has been in the Pastors retiring included David C. Belt, Thad Carter, midst of it all. Arthur Ellsworth ,Peggy Eshelman, Gloria Jones, Greg Of special note was the retirement of Rev. Ann Mathis, Richard McGehee, Ron McIntier, Loretta Rathert, district superintendent of the Gateway Regional Stone, Daniel Musgrave, and Vickie Taggart. Others District. She walked across the stage on the arm of her retiring with special words for the Conference were: husband Roger. They will be retiring to their home state • Ron Brooks: It has been an exciting life. I’m moving of Wisconsin. on to my next destination with no regrets. “I have left part of my heart here in Missouri,” she • Paul Catterton: Every appointment was its own said. “I have learned so much from all of you. I know adventure. It’s time for a new adventure, a new career what it means to be the church…Missouri style.” Bishop outside the walls of the church. Schnase gave special recognition to Rev. Rathert for her • Jack DeWees: When God calls you, better listen. service on the Cabinet as the Gateway Regional District • Remel Gary Gray: We have our issues but we tend to Superintendent. talk and not separate. The passion for truth is a place Passing of the Mantle is a ritual illustrating the where I find peace. I am so thankful that I got to here. continuation of ministry, from the retirees to the • Harold Gold: It. Goes. On. provisional clergy. Representing the retirees, Rev. • Bob Howard: If you love them, they will love you back. Rathert, and representing the provisional members, • Michael Kelpe: As I retire, I feel called into another Chris Abel. ministry, wild and free. Rev. Mark Dumas presented the candidates being • Julius Ketsenburg: It has been an amazing journey, commissioned as Elder: Chris Abel, Andy Blachsher, where God did an amazing ministry, mainly in me. Jennifer Moxley, Laura Murphy and Leanna Van Zandt. • David Maggi: I did not choose to enter the ministry, Those presented as candidates to be commissioned as I was chosen by a God with a great sense of humor. Deacon: Kasey Beaton, Hank Jenkins, Jennifer Long, • Richard Parker: What I learned as a lawyer helped and Meghan Riegerix.

www.moumethodist.org 17 ev. Adam Hamilton began his emphasized the need for leaders to R first session of “Leading Beyond seek out and listen to feed back from the Walls” with the Missouri Annual their congregations. Even if the feed Conference Saturday afternoon by back is difficult to hear, it is needed helping clergy and laity understand for each leader to be successful. how important it is for leaders to “One of the things that leaders “know what they do and why.” don’t do, is give up. Leadership is According to Rev. Hamilton hard, and if you are a leader everyone leaders set the tone of the organization; has a way of doing it better, but the clarify and champion the mission truth is, you need to hear some of that and vision; hold the organization stuff,” said Hamilton. accountable to accomplish the mission; Hamilton also spoke to the pastors Hamilton urged pastors and laity and are responsible for preparing the who may be struggling in their current alike to discern what needs to be done organization for the future by leading setting. He advised that all leaders in their setting to make the change to change. create a situation where they can do more to become the body of Christ. Hamilton encouraged the leaders learn and not be defensive. He also “Successful churches/pastors/ of the Missouri Annual Conference reminded laity to support their pastors leaders, are willing to do what to take some of these principles by cheering them on when something unsuccessful churches/pastors/leaders back to their own churches. He good happens. are unwilling to do,” said Hamilton.

18 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists for the worship service and to remember their baptisms, asks icebreaker questions Hamilton’s church provided before the greeting time to them with prayer tags to hang help people connect. in their showers. To ensure that communion • Sermons should be interesting and and baptism hold meaning, intriguing. Hamilton encouraged Hamilton explains their churches to offer sermons that significance each time he capture congregations’ attention. confers them. This practice He described a sermon series was particularly meaningful focused on restoring cars as a for one of Hamilton’s church metaphor for how God works members. She said her friend through people. To illustrate his Sunday School called one day and said she wanted to go point, on the first Sunday of the with Adam Hamilton to church. They attended together, and series, he displayed a broken- the member was surprised at the passion down Mustang on the chancel. with which her friend sang, prayed, The last Sunday featured a new tithed and participated in communion. Mustang that had been restored That night, the woman’s friend was from the inside out, which he he Rev. Adam Hamilton knows driving with her boyfriend when they drove off the stage. that people attend worship collided with a stalled semi truck. • Sermons should be deeply biblical. Tservices for different reasons. Half Both were killed. The member later Sermons should be “rooted and come to learn about their faith and to told Hamilton that she was glad he grounded in our sacred text,” encounter the living God, the other explained what communion meant Hamilton said. This can include half come to see friends, sing songs and because her friend knew why she was two approaches: sermons that begin maybe hear an interesting sermon. going forward. One of the last things with a question about life and For Hamilton, this isn’t enough. He the woman said was, “I’m a follower of move to the Bible to answer it and said churches should strive to create Jesus Christ, and I need him in my life.” sermons that begin with the answer worship services where all experience For Hamilton, this is just one of many by exploring the Bible. God in a profound way and increase the reasons why church services should be Ultimately, these techniques can expectation that the Holy Spirit will planned intentionally. help churches see that “Preaching has move in their hearts and lives. “When people come forward for power,” Hamilton said. “It’s not just picking a few hymns,” the Eucharist at your church, do they The Rev. Mike Costanzo, newly Hamilton said of planning for understand what they are doing?” he ordained pastor at Lake Lotawana passionate worship. “It’s really asking asked. “Have you in any way prepared UMC, said he looks forward to the question, ‘What’s the journey we’re them for an encounter with God?” implementing the ideas Hamilton leading people on this weekend?’” The sermon is also a key element shared. Leading congregation members on a of the worship service, and Hamilton “These are some practical but also journey involves prayerfully considering offered five components of preaching so well theologically grounded ways to all aspects of the worship service. He that connect with worship attendees: approach this,” he said. “Every time I addressed this at the Bishop’s Learning • Teach them something they didn’t hear him, I’m just always so impressed Time Sunday morning of Annual know before. People like to learn, with the language he uses to introduce Conference Session, sharing examples and if they leave church with a things...The bigger meaning is always in from his church, Church of the new piece of information to share, just a few little sentences to introduce Resurrection in the Kansas City area. they will feel church was worth what’s next.” Hamilton begins worship by kneeling attending. For Kay Jones, a lay delegate from and praying at the chancel, which shows • Inspiration comes through stories. Mount Zion UMC in Deepwater, the congregation they should “expect Sermons should touch hearts in Hamilton’s message served as an something to happen today.” some way. invitation and an opportunity. The way churches welcome visitors • Include a call to action. Sermons “I like the way that he portrays Christ also establishes expectations for should offer an opportunity for and his teaching and encourages other worship. Hamilton has worship leaders people to respond. For example, to people to live out their faith genuinely,” introduce themselves, provide an outline encourage congregation members she said.

www.moumethodist.org 19 n the third and final teaching session of Annual pictures of the building to find what needs to be fixed. IConference Rev. Adam Hamilton, senior pastor Greeters and clear signage in the building are also ways to and founder of the United Methodist Church of the make things easier for first time visitors to the church. Resurrection discussed how United Methodist Churches Preparing the building is one step in the process of must understand their “Mission, Evangelism and reaching outside the walls of the church. Hamilton Methodism.” Each church must answer three essential explained that Social Justice and Evangelism are two questions: Why do people need Jesus Christ, Why do people halves of one Gospel, and that the United Methodist need the Church, and Why do people need this church? Church has a unique way of doing both. According to Rev. Hamilton a lot of United Methodist “When people are broken and lost, we [the Church] are Churches struggle with low self-esteem, and it’s up to the to be the presence of Christ in the world” said Hamilton. pastors and laity to find what each church does well and The Social Justice issues in each community can differ, expand on those areas. Hamilton went on to say that it is but through the mission of helping the least, last and important that churches only do things with excellence. lost the un-churched can be introduced to a community “The future of Methodism in the State of Missouri rests of believers. on you,” said Hamilton to the Annual Conference session. “The Social Gospel is the key to proving Jesus Christ to Churches must then prepare themselves for visitors people who don’t believe” said Hamilton. Hamilton went by looking at their church through the eyes of the un- on to say that once people are in the door of the church churched. Hamilton shared how the Trustees at Church that it is important that they understand the importance of the Resurrection go around with a camera taking of Evangelism and the theology behind their beliefs.

20 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists Why We Build an Altar

“I know what life is like with God, and what life is like without God. I don’t want to go back.”

ownley is a deacon in the Minnesota Conference and has worked as a consultant helping with new T church starts. She led a learning time at Annual Conference around the theme of “Why Do We Build an Altar?” based on Joshua 22, verses 26 -27. Therefore we said, ‘Let us now build an altar, not for burnt offering, nor for sacrifice, but to be a witness between us and you, and between the generations after us, that we do perform the service of the Lord in his presence with our burnt offerings and sacrifices and offerings of well-being; so that your children many never say to our children in time to come, “You have no portion in the Lord.” “Building an altar is creating a worship environment in which we teach regulars to reach out into the Worship, she said passionate worship requires authenticity, neighborhood to bring others to experience God with us,” transparency, openness, truth-telling. She then asked the she said. “God will lead us outside our doors where people audience some questions that they could use their cell live who have no part with God. If we don’t take the steps phones to answer via text. to build this kind of altar, we will never pass our faith on Is our church regularly using contemporary cultural means to to future generations. Without passion there is nothing to engage non-regulars and non-members in worship? This vote pass on.” was an even split. Isolation is the plight of the church in the 21st century, Can I articulate my faith story when God gives me the Townley said. Churches aren’t counter-cultural, they are opportunity to share it? 300 yes, 50 no. isolated. To be counter-cultural you have to connect to the Do I pray for God to lead me into conversations about faith culture in some way. with others? Even split. Townley advised people to focus on God, and follow him Are we convinced that newcomers would attend existing right outside their doors, developing relationships with worship in our church? Only a few more yes responses than no. their banker, massage therapist or baby sitter. Townley discouraged using worship time on Sunday “This isn’t random activity if you’re building an altar,” morning for announcements to recruit volunteers to she said. “We follow God by intention, and that is not struggling ministries. about the head, it’s about the heart. It’s a bold prayer to “When did worship become about keeping the machine ask God to lead you into the mission field, because God alive?” she said. actually answers it.” She advised engaging people through music, but not Townley said if people will ask God to combine worship singing too many verses, noting that the average song on and witness in their lives, the prayer alone will stretch the radio is just over three minutes long. them, let alone what comes after. Townley said every worship service should end with a “You can grow comfortable in your own skin, and talk Call To Action, and she closed her learning time with this about life and faith in a way that goes deep,” she said. one: “What will be the first thing you do to build your Speaking to the Annual Conference theme of Passionate altar of worship and witness when you leave this place?”

www.moumethodist.org 21 Estamos Juntos We Are Together BY PAMELA DILMORE

he M’punzu Mozambique routinely walk four T Trio opened miles to get water that is often the report from not safe for drinking. This year the Mozambique saw the completion of 23 wells, Initiative of and 11 more are in progress. the Missouri The Mozambique Initiative offers Conference. micro loans to churches to help Sarah Bollinger, Associate people develop ways to earn money. Director of the Mozambique Bollinger believes that the Initiative, shared a joyful report most salient fruit is relationship. of a successful year. The theme Estamos Juntos. We are Together. of her report was Estamos Juntos This theme expresses the which means We Are Together. Great Commandment to love This year, the Gondola God and love neighbor and to Training Center opened with the be with and for one another. mission of training and equipping She believes radical, active, pastors in Mozambique. In passionate love draws us March, the first group of pastors together, and she challenged the finished the first module of conference to continue to find training. A second module ways to be together through the begins in September. Women in Mozambique Initiative. 22 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists One of the fundraisers Culbertson Chapel UMCs did to support Imagine No Malaria was refilling M&M tubes. On one side of the church was tubes of M&Ms that they had available to the children. They could take their first tube, but if they wanted another, they needed to bring back the empty tube filled with quarters for Imagine No Malaria, which equaled $20. These were left on the other side of the church. From October to June the children and the congregation did a great job in eating candy and filling tubes. In the end they raised more than $2, 400 for mission which included 35 quarter- filled tubes ($700). That’s 35 pounds of quarters. About 20 children and youth, from ages two to 17, participated in the project. INM Giving Tops $1 Million BY PAMELA DILMORE he report nets, health campaigns, and education The report culminated with an Tfrom programs are critical resources that offering and with a prayer from Bishop Imagine have made a difference. They reported Ann Sherer. Bishop Sherer began No Malaria a number of extraordinary and her prayer with a poignant memory given by Jill passionate UMC responses. of a trip to Mozambique. She took Wondel and One of these came from the WOW pictures of her guide’s child, and when Jennifer Long, event. Youth gave “wadded up” dollar she brought the pictures to him on a Coordinators bills at the event that helped save 2,000 second trip, learned that his child had of the lives. Such responses help people with died from Malaria. Imagine No names, faces, and families and turn She prayed for children, for efforts Malaria campaign, was essentially an mourning into joy. At the time of the to offer healing, and for the offering. expression of gratitude. The opening report, new nets were being distributed At the end of the business session, video noted that the number of deaths in Sierra Leone. The vision of Imagine Bishop Schnase reported that offerings from malaria has been cut in half since No Malaria is no deaths from malaria, for Imagine No Malaria now stand at 2010. The gifts of treated mosquito a preventable disease. $1,120,000. www.moumethodist.org 23 athways Partners is a vision that started in 2005 with the aim of providing resources for new P churches and assisting churches in reaching the next generation of youth. In the last four years Pathways Partners has provided $600,000 that has helped to support 25 new church starts. The program is guided by Rev. Clayton Smith, Missouri Conference elder and executive pastor of generosity at Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas. He addressed the Conference by saying he first started coming to Annual Conference Session 42 years ago, and has served churches in a variety of ministry settings since then. Many congregations have members who have accumulated wealth over the course of their lives, and are at a point where they want to make financial gifts that will make a difference. If there isn’t a great need in their local churches, they may choose to make their gift to an institution like a university or hospital. If they were introduced to the Pathways Partners program, they may be excited to learn of an opportunity to be able to share their faith through their generosity. “Pathways Partners offers a compelling vision for United Methodism in Missouri, that it might not just survive, but thrive,” Smith said. Pathways Partners is focusing its resources on three key areas. Planting New Congregations This is one of the most effective ways to reach new people for Jesus Christ and to relate to younger generations. The Conference goal is to start three new congregations a year and in ten years see the growth and development of thirty churches that did not exist before. Pathways Partners wants to help with this goal. Clergy Leadership Excellence Pastor Leadership Development Groups (PLD), Catalyst Events, Small Church Initiative, and the Healthy Church Initiative are but some of the means being used to encourage leadership excellence in our clergy.

Reaching Young People The Millennial generation will be the next dominant generation. Millennials are instantaneously connected to other students, friends, and parents in ways unknown to older generations. The way local churches interact and connect with Millennials is key to our present and future health and vibrancy. Smith encouraged those attending Annual Conference Session to refer to pages 44 – 47 in Bishop Robert Schnase’s book, Seven Levers, for a more thorough explanation of how giving through Pathway Partners can make a real difference in the United Methodist Church in Missouri.

24 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists Missouri United Laity Set Goals Methodist Foundation on Connecting & Learning Supports Churches BY PAT MARSH & Scholars BY SUSAN SNEED

n his 6th annual Laity Address, I Conference Lay Leader Brian Hammons not only reported on the goals of the laity team and development of a simpler training program, he also offered challenges and encouragement to laity and pastors. Hammons noted the laity leadership vision is clarified as “Spiritually engaged laity leaders partnering with pastors to lead congregations to fruitfulness in our mission: making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.” To accomplish this vision, goals have been set in two areas - Connecting and Learning. he United Methodist Foundation enables Connecting: The emphasis is to help connect laity leaders with T congregations to grow and explore new resources and with other laity leaders in the Conference. He ministries, to be more excellent in worship and encouraged those present to write down one way to personally to assist people to reach educational goals. David connect with a resource or folks beyond their own congregations. Atkins, the executive director, highlighted the Learning: “I’m happy to report that under the leadership of Ken connection the Foundation has with many of the Willard and Jeff Fothergill, your Lay Ministry Team and District Conference’s other ministries. Directors of Lay Servant Ministries are developing a simpler “In our 47 years of ministries, nearly $50 program incorporating the best of our training courses,” he said. Still million has been invested and nearly $40 million under development, the program will better coordinate Lay Servant has gone out to ministry,” said Atkins. The Ministries and Lay Leadership Development to provide high-level Foundation is a dynamic engine sustaining learning opportunities. and creating ministry across the state. “Over The basic Lay Servant Ministries course is encouraged for every $1,091,350 has been awarded in scholarship laity leader. After that, two learning tracks are planned: Lay in the last 10 years. Planned gifts is a division Speaking and Congregational Leadership. The focus is preparation including trusts, endowments and a variety of for leadership and effectiveness – not upon certification or status. special funds individuals and congregations can “It’s about strengthening skills to be effective,” he said. invest in to support a variety of ministries. Hammons also shared observations of effective leaders in growing The Foundation has a 24-year track record congregations. In addition to the Five Practices, these leaders focus of investing that is one of stability for churches on three areas, he noted. despite changes of personnel. Atkins, the staff Clarity of an intentional process for making disciples of Jesus. He and board are available for workshops and encouraged laity to talk with their pastors about how to better define a variety of literature is always available to the discipleship process. congregations. Leadership Development. Pastors of growing congregations focus One of the important functions of the on developing leaders in several ways - discovery and use of ministry Foundation is to provide funds for seminary gifts, retreats on leadership ideas, praying and planning together, students. Seminary scholars for 2014-2015 attending workshops, etc. include 26 persons in over 10 seminaries. Dollars Preach and teach both grace and truth. “Our culture cries out for Scholars is a matching scholarship program today for truth – scriptural truth that’s conveyed through Jesus’ life for churches that have students attending and teaching,” Hammons said. either Saint Paul School of Theology or Central Hammons closed with a call to persevere. “Let’s keep going, Methodist University. keep the focus and be part of a ‘new thing’ that God continues to Atkins concluded by recognizing Allen do through the United Methodist people in Missouri,” he said. He Herndon, director of development. Mr. Herndon also thanked all who give of their time, energy and resources for the is leaving the Foundation to head the Kansas mission God has for us. United Methodist Foundation.

www.moumethodist.org 25 Laity Session Calls for Focus on Disciple Making BY FRED KOENIG

issouri Conference Lay Leader Brian issue in our churches, but three years ago he came to Hammons opened the laity session on realize that the biggest issue is discipleship. Friday afternoon by offering appreciation Willard quoted Barna in defining discipleship as an and encouragement. “You are key people in intentional process that provides next steps in spiritual God’s plan in your communities. journey – moving from unbelief to belief in every aspect We’re really glad you’re here, because you are investing of life. time to make a bigger difference in your community. We “If you make disciples, you always get the church, but if pray that you will be getting spiritually filled here, and you make a church you rarely get disciples,” Willard. “The going out in a more sent way. We’re here to connect with mission I really care about is the one that Christ gave us, each other, and to learn.” Matthew 28.” He introduced Jeff Fothergill, the Missouri Conference Churches should consider the question: What does a director of Lay Speaking Ministries. Fothergill encouraged disciple look like? Willard said that for too long churches people to be excited, and to do something with their were too concerned about increasing members rather than excitement. He invited the laity to the School of Lay making disciples. Ministry August 1 – 3 at Wood’s Chapel in Lee’s Summit. “Mature disciples are worshipping God, and want to be “The school will be focused on Passionate Worship – if around others who are worshipping God. They are coming we’re going to get good at this, we can’t contain it to three to church,” Willard said. “The number one thing causes days in Springfield,” Fothergill said. “We’re going to talk you to move from where you are today and growing as a about big churches and small churches. Even if you’re at disciple is reading and reflecting on God’s word.” a small church, you’ll feel at home here. We want to leave Rev. Kim Jenne shared that the Missouri Conference you with specific, solid things that you can go back to your Core Practices Team has been focusing on International churches with immediately, things you can apply today.” Faith Development, and has compiled resources on Ken Willard, associate lay leader, said five years ago, Missouri Conference website at www.moumethodist.org/ he had the belief that mission and vision was the biggest growingdeeper.

26 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists Bishop Schnase Encourages Clergy to Improve Worship BY PAM EKEY

pen yourselves to the possibility of the difference “I realized that every single week has a Sunday and you can make in worship if you focus a little every single Sunday has a worship service and every O more, if you improve a little more, Bishop Robert single service has a sermon, and I realized I had to Schnase told those who assembled for the clergy session become good at this,” said. It is our responsibility as Friday afternoon. clergy to provide meaningful worship every Sunday. Those who are in a professional ministry role struggle to He asked clergy to discuss four questions: What is experience grace in worship as they are involved in leading your earliest memory of worship? What is your earliest the details of worship. Too much focus on attending to experience or memory of being asked to lead worship? God can lead to unfocused, poor quality worship. But What worship service has had the greatest impact on too much focus on the mechanics of worship can lead to your life? And what learning experience has had the methodical, uninspired worship. greatest positive impact on your leadership of worship There is reluctance on the part of ministers and worship or preaching? leaders to receive feedback from their congregation or The theme of this Annual Conference is Loving from their peers, he said. That reluctance is rooted in a God in return, practicing passionate worship. He reluctance to admit there is room to improve the skill and encouraged clergy to see the gift they have been given craft of worship leadership. “I admire those who go out of in preaching and worship leadership, and see how their way to improve,” he said. it can be used to deepen the faith of others. “If you Schnase recalled when he was new to ministry he get stuck preaching the next sermon, take a moment sought out a pastor, Janice Huie (now Bishop Huie), and realize the extraordinary impact your words have and spent three days delivering sermons and receiving on other peoples’ lives. Your words can lift people to feedback from her in order to improve his preaching skills. heaven,” he said.

www.moumethodist.org 27 Making Faith Development Intentional BY FRED KOENIG

aking disciples of Jesus Christ is at individual ways churches relate to this mission. the core of the mission of the United To define what a disciple is, the Core Practices Team Methodist Church. But what is a disciple, offered the following scriptures: M and how is one made? The Missouri • John 13: 34-35 - I give you a new commandment, that Conference Core Practices Team invited those gathered you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also for Annual Conference to enter into a conversation about should love one another. By this everyone will know that discipleship making and Intentional Faith Development you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. on Thursday evening. • John 8:31 - Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed Rev. Kim Jenne explained that the Core Practices in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my Team has been focused on the Five Practices, and disciples. has recognized the need for churches to refine their • Luke 14:33 - So therefore, none of you can become my discipleship process. Rev. Chris Dumas reported that 70 disciple if you do not give up all your possessions. percent of churches participating in the Healthy Church Initiative have prescriptions related to intentional faith Discipleship tends to have four components: development. A recent survey of churches revealed several 1. Invitation issues related to this: 2. Education • Confusion about difference between mission and 3. Formation vision 4. Mission • A majority were unable to identify their discipleship process or characteristics of mature disciple During the table discussions, many groups said they • Inconsistency in use of language faith development have clearer practices related to mission than any other • Children were not involved aspects of the church. Jenne said she hopes people leave Annual Conferences realizing they aren’t alone in having All United Methodist Churches carry the same mission difficulty in the disciple making process, but also don’t of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation have too high of expectations in thinking they can make of the world. Vision statements describe the various big changes over night.

28 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists Catalyst for Next Generation Ministries Reaches Out to Local Church Ministries

BY PAMELA DILMORE

ev. Garrett Drake is the became part of the church, Drake program will be helpful to the entire R new director of Catalyst for told the story of a woman who came conference. Next Generations Ministry, and to his office. She told him that she They have developed a new two words resonated again and needed his forgiveness. She told partnership between Central again in his report. Discipleship him that although she would never Methodist University and the office and local churches. He gave an leave the church, for 20 years she of Next Generation Ministries overview of how ministries to the gave her tithes to a church across in order to provide an intentional Next Generation will strengthen the street. “I just gave up hope this process to equip staff and to navigate congregations to lead people to church was going to stay alive and the cultural shifts. These efforts actively follow Jesus Christ. The be effective, but now I see these kids include a certification through the ministries have begun by placing and youth everywhere and I need to General Board of Discipleship. youth-age ministry, college-age say I’m sorry for giving up.” People Camp & Retreat Board and Staff ministry and camping and retreat wonder if there is really any hope for are also asking how to help local ministry under one umbrella. ministries to the next generation. congregations in their discipleship He celebrated existing ministries He hears time and time again the efforts. Each camp and retreat site for young people and pointed to groans of how the next generation will make it a priority to go into the the need to help local churches has given up on the church. He also local churches and help facilitate the strengthen their ministries to the hears the groans of young people in needs of those located at each site. next generation. the next generation who feel that the Drake concluded with a very hopeful He shared with the conference local church has given up on them! vision. The next generation is still a poignant and all too familiar Drake reported, “As the office open and still seeking to be part of a story of his experience in an early of Next Generation Ministries community of faith. appointment. When his daughter continues to develop over the next and only one other child came few months...we must develop a forward for Children’s Sermon, his strategic plan that looks at how are heart sank. Parishioners there talked we leading congregations to lead about good ol’ days when more children, youth and college age than 50 kids would come forward young people to actively follow for children’s time. They once had Jesus Christ.” Currently, these a children’s choir. As he listened strategies include several to stories of the good ol’ days, he areas of action and they realized that the once vibrant church target local churches. was now struggling just to maintain Next Generation the building. Ministries is currently Change did happen. They decided working with a to develop strategies based on target group of local what was best for the church. They churches on a pilot looked at every ministry, including program to partner infants in the nursery, as serving with each local the mission of the church. Things church. They will began to change and so did their look at results to fruitfulness! Hope was now alive. determine whether As more children and young people the pilot

www.moumethodist.org 29 Church Planters Meet Before Annual Conference

ome people started their to support a pastor. Strategies must conferencing a little early be employed to keep growth from Ten Essentials S in Springfield this week. slowing down before a church reaches for Transformational Missouri Conference Director of self-sustainability. Leadership in Existing Congregational Excellence Bob Farr, Farr said his approach may be & New Churches along with consultant Cathy Townley, considered old-school, but he believes led a New Church Leadership that first time visitors should be 1. Are you compelled to Institute “boot camp” for church contacted within 24 hours of visiting reach people? planters at Schweitzer UMC from the church. 2. What is your outwardly Tuesday through Thursday. “If you’re at a church of under focused events/missional About 25 people participated in 300 people, the person making that outreach plan? the event. It concluded on Thursday contact should be you,” he said. “After 3. Are you multiplying? with Farr making a presentation on you make that initial connection, then 4. What is your plan to network Ten Essentials for Transformational you can work on getting that person and connect people together? Leadership in New and Existing connected to your caring system.” 5. What is your plan a for a Churches (see sidebar). The planters were encouraged to worship experience? For great Farr advised those attending to look have a clear discipleship plan, which music, preaching, hospitality for ways people in their new churches spells out “What comes next” at every and children’s ministry? can experience small, medium and step in the process. It’s the pastor’s job 6. What is your follow up plan? large groups. For people who have to maintain focus on the vision, but 7. What is your discipleship plan? never been involved in church, sharing the pastor must also be developing 8. How are you building leaders with others around kitchen table in leaders, not just doers. among your laity? 9. What is your generosity plan? the first week during a Bible study “You can start with our Lay 10. Are you coachable? may be too much. Conference events, Leadership Development (LLD) like the WOW youth rally, give small course, but then you should build your congregations the opportunity to own leadership development program, experience large events. based on the culture in your church,” launch team, and leaders should be Farr cautioned the planters that it Farr said. asked to fully tithe. If this doesn’t is natural for a new church to grow to In the area of generosity, Farr said happen, a gap will develop which will the size of 60 – 80 people and plateau, offerings should be taken from the make it difficult for the church to later but that size isn’t enough giving units first small group gathering of the achieve self-sustainability.

30 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists Clergy Support Team Offers Changes to Equitable Compensation

BY SUSAN SNEED

he support of clergy can will be given a higher be a complicated matter, priority consideration. T but Rev. Nate Berneking, The Clergy director of Conference Finance Retirement Security and Administration, Tom Ventura, Plan (CRSP), June Deweese, and Rev. Steve billed directly to Pinnell, chair of the Clergy the churches, will Support Team gave a report that see an increase in explained things well. “Clergy what churches are support” includes salary standards, responsible for equal continuing education, professional to 12.22 percent of reimbursement, death benefits, a full time clergy’s disability, health insurance, compensations. Healthflex is the health insurance parsonages and housing allowances, At the same time, the of choice and covers medical, dental moving costs and pensions. Pinnell Comprehensive Protection Plan and optical. Deweese was met with lifted up the expertise and care of (CPP), another piece of clergy applause when she announced a the team and conference staff, and pension, will also be billed 0 percent increase in 2015. There commended them for their hard directly to the churches in 2015, is a wellness incentive program work on behalf of the clergy. and increased to 3 percent of that actually earns participants “The most significant changes compensation. Clergy need to money, and all are encouraged to this year are in the area of equitable contribute 1 percent of their participate. A part of the Incentive compensation,” said Pinnell. The compensation to be eligible for the 1 program requires completion of entire set of guidelines has been percent matching UMPIP account. the HealthQuotient. This will save replaced with expanded and more Currently 83 percent of clergy families and individuals considerable comprehensive guidelines. participate. surcharges on deductibles. The Equitable compensation is a The most significant change in allowance for supplemental insurance valuable resource of congregations housing is the new policy impacting paid to retired clergy has been who struggle financially to properly the sale of a parsonage when there increased in 2015. compensate clergy. Congregations is a full time pastorate. This most Pinnell moved that the increase of may apply for financial assistance but often occurs when it is agreed by the annuity service rate for 2015 be must meet specific criteria in type the charge and pastor that a housing increased to $570/year, an increase of community served, ability to pay allowance will be paid out. The funds of $17 per year over 2014. The a 65 percent of the minimum salary from the parsonage sale will be used motion passed. Motions to accept requirement, and evidence of “a clear to establish a restricted fund for the the sections encompassing minimum desire to meet the missional needs purpose of buying a new parsonage pay levels and the new parsonage of their communities, as well as in the future. This fund should be no sale policy were put forth. These the missional desires of the Annual less than 20 percent of what a home motions passed, as well as the motion Conference, including the payment of conference standards would cost in to accept the report of the Clergy of the Conference and District the church’s community. This fund Support Team as a whole. apportionments. Congregations must be maintained for at least 10 Pinnell stressed the importance of experiencing an increase in years, if the charge remains full time. reading the full clergy support team attendance that requires a move from In cases of a sale for a less than full report in the Conference handbook. a part-time to a full-time pastorate, time charge, the proceeds must be but are still struggling financially used per the Discipline.

www.moumethodist.org 31 UMW Reports on Mission BY PAT MARSH

ission is the heart of The study areas are Missouri’s United The Roma of Europa, M Methodist Women reported How It Is with Your Kathy Rolen, president, as she Soul, and The Church outlined the year’s events. and People with The first mission project of the Disabilities. There are year focuses on sponsoring awareness activities for all age activities to fight human trafficking, groups – women, men, “a horrible human rights disease,” she youth and children. explained. Applications are This is followed in March by the available on-line or at Legislative Training event designed to the UMW booth here. foster learning and enrichment about Another area of the legislative system and promote mission focus is the adequate laws for women, children Green Team which and youth. encourages recycling In April, several from Missouri and other “green” attended the UMW Assembly in activities. Louisville, KY, which brings together The annual UMW women from around the world for Mission Walk was fellowship and spiritual formation. Sunday morning, rain Registration is still open for this or shine, to raise funds Bates Center, and Spofford Home year’s Mission U, planned July 24- for mission. Mission outreach projects and Susanna Wesley Center. 27 at Central Methodist University. include Midwest Mission Distribution In addition the group collects Learning Together for Transformation Center, Project Patricia, Food prayers shawls to be sent all over of the World is based on 1 John 3:18. Pantries, Della Lamb Epworth, Lessie the world.

32 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists Missouri Conference Reduces Budget by .7 Percent

BY LINDA GASTREICH

hile it came near the end celebrated that last year, 620 Finance and Administration were of his report, Tom Hilton, churches paid 100 percent of presented for final approval. WChair of Conference their apportionments, and 18 A process for apportioning newly Finance and Administration, churches paid over and above established churches has been delivered some welcome news to their apportioned amount. Hilton rewritten and is more comprehensive. delegates on Saturday morning. was pleased to announce that No new church will be required to Conference Finance and the Southeast District had the pay apportionments until chartered Administration (CF&A) asked for highest payout percentage of 95.9 and then on an annually increasing approval of a 2015 budget some percent, just edging out the Mid- basis, increasing by 25 percent, $98,000 or .7 percent less than the State District, which has led the reaching 100 percent by its fourth previous year. Hilton credited much Conference in apportionment year of being chartered. of the decrease to a surprising notice payouts for the past several years. Other changes included noting from the General Church Finance Hilton reminded delegates that that in 2014 the Conference Reserve and Administration that the amount the apportionment formula is fund stood at 9.56 percent of the 10 due for General Church Support had based on what a church spends on percent required, or $1,325,431. All been reduced by nearly $72,000 or itself—salaries, program expenses changes as presented were passed by 1.8 percent. and operating expenses. Not the Conference. Among the Conference budget included in the formula is a church’s Hilton ended his presentation of the changes outlined by Hilton was expenditures on missions, capital proposed 2015 budget by highlighting a 2.4 percent increase in District improvements and the number of an ongoing record of spending Superintendent salaries. In two of the people on the membership roles. controls put in place by CF&A in last five years, superintendents and Hilton also highlighted that recent years. Hilton said, “We feel conference directors have voted to the construction project which is (this budget) properly reflects our take no salary increase. The budget adding to the conference office priorities and aligns our resources has been adjusted to align with will not add anything to the 2015 with the mission of the conference.” the Conference’s highest priorities. apportionments. It is anticipated that Hilton added, “We feel it’s a budget Congregational Excellence has been mortgage and operating costs will be that will allow us to continue given a proposed budget of just under offset by eliminating current office effectively pursuing the mission.” $1.8 million. Pastoral Excellence a rental expenses and outside income The proposed budget was passed recommended budget of slightly more for rental of some of the space in the on Monday morning with no than $800,000. The proposed budget expanded facility. discussion and a vote that was includes a rather dramatic swing Moving policy provides for partial unanimous or nearly unanimous. between Connectional Ministries and reimbursement to churches in the Hilton thanked Rev. Nate Pastoral Excellence. Salary dollars instance of a regular move. This Berneking, director of Financial freed up from Connectional amount is increased for 2014 to Administrative Ministries, the Ministries are being redeployed $1,500. This amount will also be Conference staff and the committee to fund the new Catalyst for Next available for moves required by a members who gave so much time and Generation Ministries initiative. special circumstance. The motion to expertise to this important work of Adherence to the budget depends accept these changes was passed. the Conference. on how well local churches attend Changes made to the Policies to their apportionments. Hilton and Procedures of the Council on

www.moumethodist.org 33 The Denman Award from the Foundation for Evangelism recognizes Christian leaders who help others know the transforming grace of Jesus Christ. Each year an award for a lay person and for a clergy person is given in each Annual Conference. This year the laity award went to Elliot and Joy Gonzalez, directors of student and young adult ministries at Liberty UMC. They were recognized for their work in C2 (college and career) college-age ministry. “They began with three people, now they have 80,” said Director of Congregational Excellence Bob Farr, who was presenting the award. “They are the only ones who come to us (the Congregational Development Team) asking for just a little bit of money, and we say ‘Don’t you need more?’ They do so much with the resources they have.”

The Denman Award for clergy went to Rev. Charlene Dart of Cassidy UMC. “She has the ability to reach many various kinds of people, and is a constant force of energy, creativity and motion,” Farr said. “Last spring when she was sent to Cassidy it was averaging 80 in worship, now the church is averaging 135. Last Sunday they had 178 in worship, and two baptisms.” Michael McIntyre Receives Marble Mission Award: The Robert and Martha Marble Mission Award recognizes a person in the Conference who has achieved a high level of mission work. They have gone above and beyond in their outreach to those who need. Randa Rawlins, chair of the Creative Ministries Team, presented this year’s award went to Rev. Michael McIntyre, Living Word UMC, in the Gateway Central District.

Hegemann receives Social Justice Award: Rev. Kathleen Wilder, chair of the Conference Social Justice Team presented the Social Justice award to Rev. Meg Hegemann, Wilkes Blvd UMC for establishing two homeless ministries: Turning Point, providing basic self-care and resource other services, and Loaves and Fishes, and seven day a week community meals for the homeless. Loaves and Fishes operates in cooperation with 30 other faith communities. PLANS LINN MEMORIAL CHURCH IMPROVEMENTS Renovations to Modernize, Increase Usefulness of 83-Year-Old Icon

he historic Paul H. Linn Memorial United Methodist installed in 1931, and much more will be retained. TChurch at Central Methodist University, one of CMU’s The sanctuary will maintain most of its “feel” and classic and the region’s most iconic and beloved structures, is about look, but several changes will enable greater use by all to get some well-deserved attention. entities. The university is incurring all costs, Sherman said, The aim is to both modernize the steel-and-limestone noting the CMU Board of Trustees has approved funds for structure to improve its utility for both CMU and the the project. congregation. Work will commence in mid-May, with Wooden pews on the main level will be replaced by completion anticipated by late August. individual seats, allowing for adjustments to seating capacity Driven in part by the United Methodist Church’s based on need. The choir loft will be removed from the Healthy Church Initiative, pioneered by the Missouri UMC Chancel Area and that space opened up. The pews will be Conference, CMU officials and Linn UMC congregation retained in the balcony and only cosmetic improvements representatives have been discussing the project for over a year. made to that area of the church. Many needs and wishes were identified by both groups, Carpet down the center aisle will be replaced, the wooden who then came together to chart a mutually beneficial floor refinished and flooring tiles replaced, lighting/sound/ strategy. A similar project at the First United Methodist media will be improved, handicapped accessibility will be Church in Jefferson City was used as a model. improved, glass doors will be installed in the interior foyer “Much thought and consideration have gone into the to brighten up the area, and the dark ceiling panels will be planning of this renovation,” CMU President Roger repainted in a lighter shade. A restroom will be added on the Drake said. “Linn is truly sacred space, in the most literal west side of the main floor. interpretation of the word sacred. At this time, the project does not affect the Assembly “While it is important to meet the needs of the Hall beneath the sanctuary, nor the adjacent Parish House Conference, the congregation, CMU performing arts, and and Swinney Conservatory. During construction, Sunday CMU Campus Ministry, all proposed changes had to be worship services will be conducted in the Kountz Recital tempered with the preservation of the historic beauty of the Hall of the Conservatory. space,” Drake said. “I think we have done that.” The church replaced the former Centenary, which served CMU owns and maintains the structure, with the Linn both college and the community from 1884 until it was congregation paying a usage fee. The University uses Linn for demolished in 1928. The opening of the “new” church was events such as music activities, special programs, speakers, delayed by the economic crash of 1929 and subsequent onset of and spring Baccalaureate. the Great Depression; it was finally completed in 1931. The building is in need of work, noted CMU Vice President The church was dedicated in 1946 to the memory of Dr. for Administration and Finance Julee Sherman. The university Paul H. Linn, an 1894 graduate of Central who became has a growing need for performance space and greater president of his alma mater in 1913. He led the college flexibility, she added. This project addresses both scenarios. through World War I and its resultant drop in enrollment; “Our hope was that the project would meet everyone’s he guided it through its merger with the former Howard- needs, whether it’s for worship services or weddings, band Payne College in 1922; and he is credited with increasing concerts or chapel,” Sherman noted. The massive wooden enrollment and building up the Central faculty, among other trusses, ornate stained glass windows, the Wicks pipe organ accomplishments.

36 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists Central Methodist University to Start Center for Faith & Service BY LAURA BLEVINS

entral Methodist University is beginning a new Kenaston from the West Virginia Conference will live and ministry program this fall to incorporate a cross- work on the CMU campus. disciplinary opportunity for students who want to Willetts and Allman will primarily work with ministry Cconnect their faith with their everyday life. The on the Fayette campus and Kenaston will focus on civic Center for Faith and Service will be led by Rev. Lucas engagement.“This is an exciting new program that will Endicott along with three Global Mission Fellows from enable CMU to integrate faith and service throughout the the General Board of Global Ministries. university. We hope that the developmental models we “This will be an opportunity for students to be a part are creating for students will lead to lasting change in our of on-the-ground ministry and will hopefully be an community, Conference, and world,” said Lucas Endicott. opportunity for students to mature in their faith,” said Dr. For more information please contact Rev. Lucas Endicott Roger Drake, President of Central Methodist University. [email protected] or 660-248-6222. Dr. Drake described this plan to the Missouri Annual Conference in Springfield. According to Drake the Center for Faith and Service will incorporate campus worship, connection with the Methodist movement and civic engagement with the local community. “I’m excited about the way in which God is working on campus through the Center of Faith and Service,” said Drake. Rev. Endicott has already begun the planning process with the fellows on this new way of doing ministry. According to Endicott the fellows are all college graduates and have committed to at least two years service at CMU. Tiffania Willetts from the Florida Conference, Kharissa Allman from the New Jersey Conference, and Connor

www.moumethodist.org 37 Demystifying the Appointment Process BY FRED KOENIG

he United Methodist or stay? The mission of the church to consider how the people in the clergy appointment comes first. During cabinet meetings, community surrounding the church is one of the most the Conference mission statement would feel about the appointment. important processes the of leading congregations to lead “We have an appointment process T denomination engages people to actively follow Jesus Christ that is mission-field focused,” Bishop in, but it is often misunderstood. In is foremost. The Five Expectations Schnase said. an attempt to bring understanding also guide the process: Christ- Information gathering for the to how clergy end up where they are, Centered, Fruitfulness, Excellence, appointment process begins with Missouri Bishop Robert Schnase Accountability and Collaboration. charge conferences, followed by presented a session on Demystifying Bishop Schnase recalls another clergy evaluations in the fall, and the Appointment Process. Bishop telling him that when consultations in the spring. Both the Often called then itinerate system she first became involved in the clergy and the pastor-parish relations or itinerancy, United Methodist appointment process as a district committee fill out forms that include clergy offer themselves as being superintendent, she was mainly the question of whether the clergy called to be sent, and surrender concerned with how the pastor would person should stay or move, and why. themselves to be sent where needed. feel about the appointment. She later Numbers are examined, compared to In the spirit of Christ, they come became more concerned about how the demographics of the surrounding not to be served, but to serve. One the people of the church would feel community, to determine if the question drives the process: Will it about the appointment. Finally she church is growing or declining. further the kingdom more to move learned that it was more important The cabinet meets for three

38 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists long, uninterrupted days for superintendent in assessment week, with each this conference,” district superintendent bringing an he said. assessment packet with a summary of Bishop Schnase the information gathered. noted both the clergy and the local Principles That Drive Process churches have a 1. The mission of the church voice in the process comes first. early on, but later it 2. The appointment process is up to him to make deserves our honesty and a the appointments. view for the good of the whole “When the phone connection call comes in the 3. Reward excellence in the spring, we’re not mission field (not just in local asking your opinion congregations) process is data about it at that supported. point,” he said. “If 4. Four years is the minimum service you are the PPR in area for effectiveness – four chair, when you years under 200, six years 200 – get the call that we 500, 8 years over 500. want to set up time 5. We don’t move pastors during the to introduce a new provisional period, if the pastor pastor, it’s not an requests move, provisional clock interview.” (two years supervised) starts over. The Missouri How do we gather information 6. Plan intentional leadership Conference has more women in large for the appointment process? development for high potential churches than any other Conference • District Superintendents pastors for long-term good of the in the South Central Jurisdiction. • Charge Conferences mission of the Conference. Bishop Schnase said he still 7. Consultations refer to the occasionally gets a request for a male • Vital Signs conversations we have before the pastor. • Visits to local churches appointment is made. “If you’re saying you would rather for worship/meetings 8. We begin with strategic have a less-effective male pastor than • PPR evaluations appointments, not highest a more-effective female pastor, you • Pastor self-evaluations salaries. should consider the signal that you’re • Evaluation with district 9. Work graciously encouraging sending me with that request,” he said. superintendent ineffective clergy to exit rather Bishop Schnase opened up the • PPR Consultation than to appoint them somewhere appointment boards, and then • Pastor’s Consultation where there is no confidence they walked through the process the • Further Consultation can succeed. cabinet goes through in filling a with DS 10. Part-time appointments, student vacancy in a church, which then • End of the year statistics appointments and lay pastors will creates another vacancy in a different • Statistical history be worked out by the DS. church, resulting in a chain of • Demographics 11. Done by mid-May appointment changes. He said 12. Attend to system to further pastors are sometimes “promoted” to mission. a more strategic location where they are needed, even though the salary one question that the Bishop and Bishop Schnase said he expects may be significantly less in the new cabinet have to answer so they know every district superintendent to location. they have done their job: “I have be working for the good of the “This happens is about 30 percent appointed ______to ______so that Conference, not just the good of his of the cases,” he said. ______. or her district. By May of this year, there were 30 “Superintendents don’t hold cards retirements, and 57 full-time clergy For more information on the too close to the chest – that’s the changed appointments. appointment process, go to easiest way to become a former At the end of the process, there is www.7levers.org.

www.moumethodist.org 39 2014 MISSOURI CONFERENCE APPOINTMENTS

The following directory is a listing of persons related to the Missouri Conference as of July 1, 2014. The codes indicate the status of each clergy person’s membership in the annual conference. Names which appear in bold type are new assignments.

AF Affiliate Member OA Associate member of another conference RF Retired from another denomination AM Associate Member OD Deacon member of another conference RI Retired inactive from another conference BI Bishop OE Elder member of another conference RL Retired Local Pastor CL Certified Lay Minister OF Full member of another denomination RM Retired full, associate or probationary member DM Diaconal Minister PD Provisional Deacon RO Retired clergy from another conference DR Retired Diaconal Minister PE Provisional Elder SP Student Local Pastor FD Deacon in full connection PL Part-time Local Pastor SY Supply Pastor FE Elder in full connection PM Provisional Member TBA To Be Appointed FL Full-time Local Pastor RA Retired Associate Member TBS To Be Supplied LA Leave of Absence RD Retired Deacon in full connection LM Lay Minister RE Retired Elder in full connection

GATEWAY CENTRAL DISTRICT North Hills – Daryl L. Meese (PL) (3) Schuermann (FE) (7) Kurt R. Schuermann, District Superintendent (FE) (7) North Park – Cheree Trent Mills (PL) (2) Associate to the Director of Congregational Assistant to the Pastor-Jacqueline Nance (CL) (5) Excellence – Suzanne Nicholson (FE) (1) – Arlington – Barbara J. Phifer (FE) (2) St. Andrew – Monica Jefferson (AM) (8) Effective September 1 Associate Pastor – Don E. Whalen (FD) (5) Associate, Arlington Site Pastor St. Luke’s-Ann B. Mowery (FE) (5) Asbury – TBS: Ivan James (LM) (4) 344.1a (3) Extension Ministries – Without Annuity St. Mark’s-John M. Gregory (FE) (8) Bellefontaine – Glen P. Connoley (PL) (3) Claim on the Missouri Annual Conference: University Salem in Ballwin – TBS: Kenneth W. Gottman (RE) (1) Beloved Community/Unity – Antonio M. Settles (FE) (5) Professor, Wake Forest University, School of Divinity – Salem in Ladue – Terri S. Swan (FE) (7) Bethel – Dan Brown (FE) (3) Thomas E. Frank (FE) (5), CC: University UMC Associate Pastor – Adam K. Caldwell (FE) (4) Concord Trinity – Keith W. Morgan (FE) (5) Associate Pastor, Welcoming & Connecting – Associate Pastor, Discipleship Formation – Laura C. 344.1d Extension Ministries – Without Annuity Claim Sheila N. Bouie – Sledge (FL) (2) Taylor (FD) (4) on the Missouri Annual Conference: Samaritan – Nora S. Jones (FE) (9) Associate Pastor, Older Adult Ministry – Libby ( Jan) Executive Director of the American Community The Connection – Letisha (Tish) D. Green (FL) (5) Reimers (RL) (3) Chaplain Corps (AC3)-K. Llewellyn McGhee (FE) (2), The Gathering – Matthew T. Miofsky (FE) (9) La Trinidad – José Marino Chacón Mayorga (FL) (6) CC: The Village Church of St. Louis UMC Associate, Webster Site Pastor – Christopher P. Elsie Lisbeth Quintanilla Perez (PL) (1) Director of Spiritual Care Services, Christian Hospital/ Abel (PE) (1) Elevation – Daniel W. Taylor (FE) (5) NW Healthcare-Jill G. Walter-Penn (FE) (35, CC: Associate, Clayton Site Pastor – Samuel (Matt) M. Eureka – Duane D. Larson (FE) (10) St. Mark’s UMC Fulmer (FL) (1) Pastor of Discipleship Ministry – Tim G. Schulte Chaplain, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Hematology and Associate – Linda Gastreich (FE) (4) (PL) (3) Oncology- Michelle K. LaGrone (FL) (2), CC: Associate – Yvi M. Martin (FE) (1) Fenton – Debra A. Peebles (FE) (7) Pastor of Discipleship – Deborah P. LeMoine (FD) (6) Union Memorial First (Webster Groves) – Sharon E. Kichline (FE) (4) The Village Church of St. Louis/Christ Community – Chaplain Supervisor, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Spiritual Grace – Yolanda R. Villa (FE) (2) Michelle McGhee (FE) (10) Associate Pastor, Care Services-Lisa Scott-Joiner (FE) (5), CC: Green Trails – Londia Granger Wright (FE) (2) Beloved Community Harmony – Nathan R. Hopping (FL) (1) Community Outreach and Missions – Harold St. Louis Korean UMC – Myeong Gyun Lee (OE) (5) Russell Ewell (PD) (2) The Word at Shaw – Keith Scarborough (FL) (5) 344.4 Affiliate Members: Kirkwood – David G. Bennett (FE) (17) Robert B. Collingwood (AF) (14) CC: Main Street Associate Pastor, Contemporary Music and Union-Dianne M. Cochran (FE) (9) Union Memorial – Kevin M. Kosh (FE) (11) UMC: Bamburg, SC Worship – Rocky Marlowe (PE) (4) Linda Horrell (AF) (20) CC: St. John’s UMC: Lafayette Park/Centenary – Kathleen F. Wilder (FE) (8) University – Diane Kenaston (OE) (1) Valley Park – Steven R. Mitchell (PL) (2) Edwardsville, IL Associate Pastor – Katrina I. Drew (PL) (2) Kristen Leslie (AF) (4) CC: Adrain UMC, Detroit, MI Lewis Chapel – TBS: Maryann Hamer (RL) (17) Webster Hills – Kimberly K. Jenne (PE) (3) Living Word-Michael S. McIntyre (FE) (17) Wellspring at Ferguson – F. Willis Johnson (PE) (5) 346.1 Clergy from Other Annual Conferences: Associate Pastor – Gregory P. Finfrock (FE) (7) Zion – Lee A. Porch (FE) (4) Harold S. Morse (OE) (27) CC: Rochester Hills Associate Pastor – Adam L. Mustoe (FL) (3) UMC: Detroit Conference Associate Pastor, Children’s Ministries – Brenda J. 331.1 Deacons Appointed Beyond the Local Church: Stobbe (FD) (4) Chaplain, Gambrill Gardens – Christine J. Dumas Paul E. Stroble (OE) (3) CC: Vandalia First UMC: IL Manchester – Greg M. Weeks (FE) (5) (FD) (3), CC: Wentzville UMC Great Rivers Conference Pastor of Congregational Care – Stephanie S. Lendt Secondary Appointment: Wentzville UMC Mai-Anh L. Tran (OE) (6) CC: Chinese Community (FE) (7) Consultant for Biblical Discipleship – Stephen P. UMC: Oakland, CA Director of Outreach and Mission – Mary Elizabeth Harbaugh (FD) (7), CC: Manchester UMC (Beth) Elders (FD) (5) Secondary Appointment: Manchester UMC 346.1 Clergy Serving Other Annual Conferences: Director of Children and Family Ministries – Organizer, Metropolitan Congregations United-Susan Kansas UMC, IL Great Rivers Conference – Karen Jennifer I. Finley (OD) (4) E. Sneed (FD) (4), CC: St. Mark’s UMC Blank-Ewell (FE) (2), CC: Manchester UMC Director of Administration – Phillip M. Estes (PD) (2) Secondary Appointment: St. Mark’s UMC Gresham UMC-Oregon-Idaho Conference-Steven Maplewood – Diana Kim Shirar (FE) (7) Patient Relations/Advocate, Mercy Hospital – Karen W. Lewis (FE) (1), CC: Webster Hills UMC Mt. Zion – Keith E. Janis (FE) (6) K. Fields (FD) (8), CC: Sunrise UMC Christ Community UMC-Great Plains New Covenant – Mark C. Harvey (FE) (1) Secondary Appointment: Sunrise UMC Conference-Jill Sander-Chali (FE) (1), CC: New Hope – Steven C. Majdecki (FE) (2) University UMC Normandy – Linda D. Settles (FE) (3) 344.1a (1) Extension Ministries – With Annuity Pastoral Care/Administration, Dutilh UMC, Assistant to the Pastor – Gloria Farr (CL) (5) – Claim on the Missouri Annual Conference: Western Pennsylvania Conference-J.C. Sowers Retiring July 31 Superintendent, Gateway Central District – Kurt R. (FD) (3), CC: Bethel UMC 40 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists 354.2a Leave of Absence: Jonesburg/Pendleton – TBS: John Ray (RE) (1) 354.2.a – Voluntary Leave of Absence Conway B. Briscoe (FE) (8), CC: Grace UMC Leadwood/Irondale – Robert Payne (OF) (9) Stephanie Roth (FE) (7), CC: First (St. Charles) Joanne Davis (PE) (7), CC: Grace UMC Leslie/Casco/Champion City – TBS: Pamella Terry L. Gallamore (FE) (21), CC: Manchester UMC Quigley (RL) (2) 357.1 – Incapacity Leave Libertyville/Doe Run – Brad Dush (PL) (4) Milford H. Gibbs, Jr. (FE) (21), CC: First (Park Hills) 357.1 Incapacity Leave: Memorial (Farmington) – Scott Hall (FE) (3) Julie G. Callaghan (FE) (6), CC: Union UMC, Mineola – TBS: Ken Cleeton (SY) (15) 359.3 – Honorably Located – Retired Belleville, IL Morning Star (O’Fallon) – Evangeline Cannon (HR) (20), CC: Trinity UMC, IN Elizabeth A. Freeman (FD) (2), CC: Green Trails C. Michael Schreiner (FE) (17) Jeffry C. Spaulding (FE) (4), CC: St. Luke’s UMC Executive Pastor – E. Alan Bugg (FL) (2) HEARTLAND CENTRAL Linda R. Strominger (FE) (8), CC: Grace UMC Pastor of Care and Recovery – Keith Langland Kendall Waller, District Superintendent (FE) (2) Betty Sue Watson (FE) (6), CC: Manchester UMC (FL) (2) Pastor of Connections – James Peich (FL) (2) Atherton – Paul Bond (RE) (3) 359.1 Honorable Location: Pastor of Mission and Outreach – Jennifer Long Avondale – Gary Ponder Williams (FE) (9) Terry Barber (HL) (31), CC: Manchester UMC (PD) (1) Blue Ridge Boulevard – Barry Freese (FE)(4) Robert Deckert (HL) (42), CC: St. Mark’s UMC Moscow Mills/Old Alexandria – Mark Spence Centennial (Kansas City) – David Gilmore (FE) (7) Ronald C. White (HL) (24), CC: Manchester UMC (FL) (2) Associate – Jason Bryles (FL)(1) Mt. Olive (DeSoto) – Stephanie Leonard (PL) (2) Central – James A. Simpson (FE) (5) 359.3 Honorable Location Retired: Mt. Olive (Robertsville)/Cedar Grove (Robertsville) – Christ – Christopher L. Williams (FE) (5) Walter G. Storey (HR) (17), CC: Webster Hills UMC Sherri Squires (PL) (6) Associate – Rob Allen (FL) (1) New Florence/Big Spring – Sue Biggerstaff (FE) (6) Country Club – Jennifer Weekes Klein (FE) (5) 313.1a Leave of Absence (1992 Discipline): New Hope (Owensville)/Woollam – Jackie Asher (PL) (11) Fairmount – Renae Watt (LSP) (2) M. Lynn Malone (DM) (3), CC: Webster Hills UMC Open Hearts – TBS Faubion – Steve Elkins (LM) (1) Pacific – Dee Pennington (FE) (7) First (Independence) – Mitchell P. Jarvis (FE) (6) GATEWAY REGIONAL DISTRICT Potosi/Mineral Point – TBS: Judy Jeffery (RL) (2) Associate – Poese Vatikani (LSP) (2) Linda Harris, District Superintendent (FE) (1) Shiloh/Pleasant Hill Memorial (Defiance) – First (North Kansas City) – Stephanie Moore (FE) (4) Christiane Batjer (FE) (4) Garland Avenue – TBS Gashland – Laura Murphy (PL) (1) Arcadia Valley – Marty Blakey (FL) (1) Smith Chapel – TBS Glenwood Park – Deborah Jamerson (PL) (4) Smith Creek/Central Grove – Kim Blackwood (PL) (4) Asbury (Foley)/Makin Memorial (Winfield) – Grand Avenue Temple – Tina Louise Harris(FL) (1) St. Andrew’s (DeSoto) – Darlene Payne (FL) (9) Karla Cunningham (PL) (7) Grandview – Judith Chaney Slimmer (PL) (3) St. Paul (St. Charles) – TBS: Willie James Rivers III Belgrade – Jan Dillard (FE) (2) Keystone/Revolution – Jared Wheeler (FL) (1) (SY) (13) Belleview – TBS: Robert Bullock (RE) (6) Mana Mei Lagi – Poese Vatikani (LSP) (1) St. Stephen (Troy) – J. Steven Pinnell (FE) (4) Bellflower/Olney – Carolyn Hoffmann (PL) (1) McMurry – Joyce Holley (FE)(3) Bethel – TBS SunRise (O’Fallon) – James Blue (FE) (11) Meadowbrook – Nancy Liston (FE) (2) Buell/Middletown – Kim Boone (PL) (6) Associate – Troy Merseal (PL) (4) Mount Calvary – Robert Hickman (RE)(3) Caledonia/Bismarck – Richard Lasley (FE) (3) Transformation – Cherryll Doughty (FE) (2) Mount Washington – Cassie O’Brien (SLP) (2) Centenary (Bonne Terre) – Frank Husted (FE) (1) UMC of St. Clair/Fairview (Grubville) – North Cross – Shawn Franssens (FE) (1) Centennial (Elsberry)-Brenda Cockrell (SY) (15) John Hampton, Jr. (PL) (1) Associate – Dorothy Smith (RE) (3) Church of the Shepherd (St. Peters) – Robyn Miller Victoria – TBS: Nancy Hollingsworth (SY) (9) Northern Boulevard – Sarah Wimberley (FE) (4) (FE) (8) The Way – Jimmy Cooper (FE) (2) Northmoor – Donna McDaniel ((PL) (4) Associate, Evangelism & Outreach – Loren Wellsville UMC Presbyterian – TBS: Bob Frey (RL) (1) One Spirit – William A. “Bill” LaMora (FL) (6) Whetsell (FE) (2) Wentzville – Mark Dumas (FE) (3) Red Bridge – Russell Maggard (FE) ( 8) Ceremonial Rites Pastor – TBS: Carol Meyer (RL) (3) Wesley (Troy) – Henry Brewer (OE) (9) Associate – Terry Clark(PL)(4) College (Warrenton) – Eric Schmidt (FE) (4) Wesley Memorial/Plattin (Festus) – Renaissance/St. Luke’s – Lia McIntosh (FE) (4) Cornerstone (O’Fallon) – Mike Gillen (FE) (1) Carol Blackwell (FE) (1) Associate – Charity Goodwin Rosario (FE) (2) Cuba – Joseph Frana (PE) (3) Wesley-Smith Chapel (Wright City) – TBS: Gloria Resurrection (Downtown) – Scott Chrostek Desloge/Marvin Chapel – TBS: John Swatosh (RE) (3) Jones (RL) (2) Associate – Todd Mayberry Elsberry – Paul Garven (FE) (9) Zion (Mapaville) – Linda Murry (PL) (4) St. Andrew (Kansas City) – Antonio Settles (FE) (1) Emmanuel (Viburnum)/Sligo – TBS Zion (Truxton) – TBS: Carl McCaleb (SY) (6) St. James (Kansas City) – Emanuel Cleaver III (FE) (7) Emory Memorial (New Haven)/Immanuel (Senate Associate – Linda Settles (FE) (1) Grove) – Don Covington (RE) (6) 331.1 Deacon Appointed Beyond the Local Church: St. John’s (Kansas City) – James E. Hoffman (FE) (2) Esther – TBS: Paula Eschenbrenner (RE) (6) Alecia Fischer (FD) (2), Mississippi Conference. St. Mark’s (Independence)/St. Matthew – Paula Smith Faith (St. Charles) – David Fitzmaurice (FE) (3) CC: Labadie (FE)(2) First (Bourbon) – Mary Avizenis (PL) (2) St. Paul (Independence)/Trinity(Kansas City) – R. Patrick Moore (FE) (5) First (Festus-Crystal City) – Andy Blacksher (PE) (1) 344.1 – Extension Ministries Sugar Creek – Bonita “Bonnie” Menough (PL) (11) First (Park Hills) – M. Edward (Eddie) Bone (FE) (20) 344.1a With Annuity Claim Gateway Regional Terrace Lake – Jacquelyn Moore (FE)(4) First (St. Charles) – Robin Roderick (FE) (10) District Superintendent – Linda Harris (FE) (1) Woods Chapel-First Raytown – TBS Associate – Debby Bartley (FD) (7) Director, Conference Congregational Excellence –

First (Union) – Graig Connell (PL) (4) Robert D. Farr (FE) (8) CC: Church of the Shepherd 344.1 Extension Ministries First (Washington) – Marsha West Eichler (FL) (3) 344.1d Without Annuity Claim First UMC-Presbyterian (Montgomery City) – 344.1a With Annuity Claim Edward F. Hankinson (FE) (6) Hospice Chaplain – Stephanie Leonard (PL) (2) Heartland Central District Superintendent, Kendall First (DeSoto) – Steve Richardson (PL) (2) CC: Mt. Olive (DeSoto) Waller (FE) (2) Flucom – TBS Hospice Chaplain – Dena Saip (FE) (14) Grace (Sullivan) – Steve Williams (FE) (10) CC: First (St. Charles) 344.1b Without Annuity Claim Gray Summit/Labadie – Rolando Quiroz (FL) (2) Chaplain, Carondelet Health, Evelyn Summers Hematite – TBS: Nancy Hollingsworth (SY) (9) 344.4 – Affiliate Member (FE) (14), CC: One Spirit Herculaneum – Gene Hinrichsen (FL) (9) Dennis Heck (AF) (30), CC: Cedar Rapids, Iowa: Chaplain, Crossroads, Bruce Bray (FE)(4) CC: Gashland Associate Pastor – Jessica Sahagun (PL) (1) Lovely Lane Chaplain, Good Shepherd, Laura Wilson,(PL)(5) Hermann/Rosebud – Beth Duckworth (FE) (1) CC: St. John’s Highcrest (Otto) – TBS: Tom Sanders (RE) (2) 346.1 – Clergy from Other Annual Conferences- Chaplain, Heartland Regional Medical Center, Hillsboro – David Webster (FE) (9) Douglas K. McGraw (AF) (27), CC: Iowa Conference Sally A. Schwab (FE) (14), CC: Trinity (Kansas City) www.moumethodist.org 41 Chaplain, Kingswood Manor, Kathleen Danforth (LM) (32) Creighton – Betty Wright (PL) (2) (FE) (13), CC: Trinity (Kansas City) First (Marshall) – Sandra (Sandy) Nenadal (FE) (2) CrossRoads (Belton) – Sid Robbins (FE) (4) Chaplain, U.S. Army, Walter Reed AMC, Kristi P. First (Odessa)/Concordia – Samuel (Sam) Fisher, IV Drexel – Dennis Stone (PL) (1) Pappas (FE) (24), CC: Central (FE) (3) Eldorado – Glenda Dethloff (PL) (3) Consultant, Horizons Stewardship, Dustin L. Cooper First (Slater)/Gilliam/Abbott’s Chapel – TBS: Epworth – Shelby R. Seelinger (FE) (7) (FE) (3), CC: Central Matthew (Matt) Arni (LM) (6) First (Sedalia) – James R. Downing, Jr. (FE) (19) Director of Lewis Center, Wesley Seminary, Lovett Good Shepherd – Mark Sheets (FE) (4) First (Warrensburg) – Louis Lowe (FE) (5) Weems (RE) (12). CC: Central Associate – George Roath, III (OF) (2) Associate – Jackson Short (RL) (1) Associate – Bryan Rezen (FL) (1) Florence/Goodwill Chapel – Jorge Arvelo (OF) (2) Lead Editor-Adult Resources, UM Publishing House, Grace (Higginsville)/Lexington – Terry Cook (FE) (2) Garden City – Darren Rew (PL) (2) Pamela W. Dilmore (FE) (13) CC: One Spirit (KC) Hale – Randal (Randy) DeMasters (FE) (5) Georgetown – Kenneth Cripe (PL) (14) Professor, Saint Paul School of Theology, Henry “Hal” Henrietta – Robert (Bob) Buck (OF) (3) Grace (Lee’s Summit) – Jeremy T. Vickers (FE) (11) H. Knight III (FE) (17) CC: Red Bridge Holt/Turney – Chad Cooper (OF) (1) Harrisonville – Kevin Shelton (FE) (1) Professor, Saint Paul School of Theology, Jeanne Lathrop – TBS: Richard Ogden (RE) (7) and TBS: Holden – Steve House (RE) (4) Hoeft (FE) (7) CC: Trinity (Kansas City) Theodore (Ted) Hepner (RO) (7) Hope – Creighton C. Cox (PL) (5) Professor, Shaw University, C. Jarrett Gray, Jr. (FE) (6) Lawson – Homer Davidson (AM) (7) Houstonia – Jackson Short (RL) (2) CC: One Spirit (KC) Liberty – Allen Zugelter (OE) (2) Ionia – Donna Nichols (RL) (9) Dean, Wesley Seminary, Robert Martin (FE) (2), Malta Bend/Grand Pass – Sue Reames (PL) (2) Knob Noster – Bryan Wendling (FE) (4) CC: Trinity (Kansas City) Millville/New Hope – Zephry Bingham (PL) (3) Lake Lotawana – Michael Costanzo (FE) (3) Professor, Wesley Seminary, Douglas Powe (FE) (2) Mt. Tabor – TBS: John Churchill (RL) (8) LaMonte – Debbie Arvelo (FE) (3) CC: Centennial Napoleon – Curtis Wilhelmsen (PL) (3) Lee’s Summit – James Preisig (FE) (13) Vice-President for Development, Wesleyan North Star – Tony Blevins (FL) (2) Associate – Angie McNeil (PL) (1) Homes (Texas) North Street/Elmwood – Robert (Rob) Stewart (PL) (3) Leeton – Harvey Beach (PL) (3) Daniel E. Bonner, Jr. (FE) (10) CC: Gr. Ave Temple Oak Grove – Rodney (Rod) McNeall (FE) (1) Lincoln/Hickory Chapel – Richard Dimond (RO)(Interim) Oakland (Buckner) – Gwyndelyn (Gwyn) Lucas – Marilyn Niemeyer (FE) (4) 344.4 Affiliate Members Roberts (PL) (3) Medford/Wesley Chapel – Bobby Kent (PL) (4) President, St. Paul School of Theology – TBA Orrick – Robert (Bob) Buck (OF) (3) Mt. Olivet (Archie)/Mt. Zion (Butler) – Eldon L. Paradise – TBS: Larry Linville (RE) (7) and TBS: Allen (RL) (10) 346.1 Clergy Serving Other Annual Conference: Judith ( Judy) Frost (RL) (2) Mt. Zion (Deepwater) – Cindy Dubovich (PL) (4) St. Paul UMC (State College, Pa) Susquehanna Platte City – Katherine (Katie) Trinter (PE) (2) New Bethel/Pleasant Hill (Sedalia) – Mary L. Conference-Neal Lassinger (FE) (1), CC: North Platte Woods – Stephan (Steve) Breon (FE) (10) Biesemeyer (RA) (10) Cross UMC Associate – Kyle Butler (OE) (1) Ohio Street – Sandra Schaller (FE) (1) Associate – Ginger Pudenz (FL) (7) Peculiar – James Stanfield-Myers (FE) (6) 354.1 Leave of Absence Associate – Jessica Richard (FD) (3) Pleasant Hill – David Owsley (FL) (1) Kevyn Amos (FE) (2) Associate – Jacob Schneider (FL) (1) Rich Hill – Mark Kailbourn (PL) (7) Associate – Christine Tucker-Key (FE) (4) Rockville – Kasey Beaton (PL) (1) 357.1 Incapacity Leave Polo – James ( Jim) Gubser (RO) (4) Smithton/Lake Creek – Jason P. Veale (PL) (6) Kathryn Bray (FE) (11), CC: Gashland Richmond – Donald R. (Don) Smith (FE) (11) St. Paul’s (Raymore) – Monty Stratton (FL) (1) Lisa Stevens (FE) (18), CC: Central Richmond: Proctorville – TBS: Michael McCalley Taylor Chapel – Calvin Pritchard (PL) (10) John Taylor (FE) (7)), CC: First (Independence) (LM) (21) Virginia – Julie Nelson (SY) (1) Jodi Ponder Williams (FE) (24), CC: Avondale Smith Chapel (Napton) – Barry Baugh (FL) (8) Warsaw – D. Eric Derks (FE) (8) Smithville – Kathy Harmon (FL) (5) Wesley (Sedalia) – Richard Adams (FE) (7) 359.1 Honorable Location St. Peter – Jeffrey B. (Jeff ) Long (FE) (4) Windsor – Melvin Hill (OD) (4) Aaron Royer CC: Grandview Wellington/Hardin – TBS Woods Chapel (Lee’s Summit) – Jeffrey S. Brinkman Waverly/Wesley (Sweet Springs)/Norborne – (FE) (21) 435 Appointment of Deacon in Full Connection Matthew (Matt) Riley (FL) (1) Associate – Dave Hackett (RL) (1) Kristen L. Schmitz (FD) (5), Avondale UMC Weston – Kathleen Schmidtke (FE) (2) Associate – Wendy Minshall (PL) (2) Associate – Sherri Swanson (PL) (8) 590.3 Mission Appointment 344 Extension Ministries Woods Chapel (Odessa) – Robert Jeppson (PL) (7) 344.1a With Annuity Claim 1313.3b Deaconess Heartland North District Superintendent – 344 Extension Ministries Amanda Caruso-Yahne , CC: Trinity Stephen L. Cox (FE) (5) 344.1a With Annuity Claim 344.1b Without Annuity Claim Heartland South District Superintendent – Diaconal Assignments Director of Pastoral Care, Liberty Hospital – Kendall Waller (FE) (2) Lynn Arnold (DM) (13), CC: Christ Carmen Lile-Henley (FE) (1), CC: Liberty 354.1 Leave of Absence HEARTLAND NORTH DISTRICT 354.1 Leave of Absence Shelby R. Seelinger (FE) (7), CC: First UMC (War- Stephen L. Cox, District Superintendent (FE) (5) Michael Davidson (FE) (11), CC: Platte City rensburg) Melvin (Skip) Stanley (FE) (3), CC: Liberty Sarah Hamilton (FE) (2), CC: Wesley (Sedalia) Arley – TBS: John Roeder (RE) (6) 357.1 Incapacity Leave 354.2b Family Leave Bogard/Mandeville – TBS: Dennis Estes (LM) (10) Kathryn Leclere (FE) (10), CC: First Blue Springs 357.1 Incapacity Leave Broadway (Plattsburg) – Crystal Brinnen Karr (PE) (2) Lawrence Kasl (FL) (19), CC: Archie UMC Buckner – Linda Wansing (PL) (1) Brent Mustoe (FE) (3), CC: Aldersgate Camden – TBS: Russell Standlee (RE) (3) HEARTLAND SOUTH DISTRICT (Lee’s Summit) Carrollton – Keith (Anselm) Williams (FE) (4) Kendall Waller, District Superintendent (FE) (2) Church of the Resurrection-Blue Springs – 359.3 Honorable Location Penny Ellwood (OE) (5) Adrian/Passaic – Chris K. Snyder (FE) (5) A. Lee Edwards CC: Hope Corder/Alma Federated – TBS: Ralph Varner (LM) (3) Aldersgate (Lee’s Summit) – Robert Sefrit (FE) (3) C. Marcellus Hibbard CC: First UMC (Sedalia) Cowgill – TBS: Ray E. Anderson (CL) (6) Associate – Karen A. Bordner (PL) (15) Steven L. Turner CC: First UMC (Sedalia) Dearborn – TBS: Sharon Howard (RE) (5) Amsterdam – Hank Roberts (PL) (5) Glen Wood CC: Lee’s Summit UMC Faith (Grain Valley) – David Hutchison (FE) (2) Appleton City/Montrose – Ron Beaton (FE) (3) Director of Children’s Ministries – Archie – Ross Fulton (FE) (2) Glenda Callicott (FD) (1) Bethel (Hughesville)/Blackwater Chapel – Casey MARK TWAIN DISTRICT First (Blue Springs) – Sarah (Sally) Haynes (FE) (5) Henry (PL) (2) Dale Stone, District Superintendent (FE) (5) Associate – Choong-Ho Kwon (FE) (5) Brandon – John Streit (SY) (3) First (Braymer)/Breckenridge – Sally DeMasters (FE) (5) Calhoun/Drake’s Chapel – Margie Briggs (CL) (9) Arch (Hannibal) – David Scott (FE) (4) First (Excelsior Springs) – Elmer (E) McClaflin (FE) (4) Chilhowee/Norris – Susan A. Smith (PL) (7) Atlanta – Larry DeSpain (PL) (2) First (Kearney) – Spencer Smith (OE) (3) Clinton – Brad Reed (FE) (1) Barker – Carolyn Leaver (PL) (7) Dee Wiley (SY) (9) First (Kearney): Todd’s Chapel – TBS: Bob Lawson Cole Camp – Mike Cassidy (PL) (2) Bethel – Michael “Mike” Alberts (PL) (3) 42 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists Bethlehem – Larry DeSpain (PL) (6) 359.1 HONORABLE LOCATION Smith Chapel (Fayette) – TBS Bowling Green Parish: Bowling Green/Eolia/Oak Gary L. Phillips HN (22), CC: Kirksville First St. John’s (Linn) – Floyd A. Gudde, Jr. (PL) (3) Grove – John Pinkston (FL) (1) St. Luke (Columbia) – TBS: Raymond W. Hayes (HL) (34) Wesley Chapel (Bowling Green) – Kathy Redmond MID-STATE DISTRICT St. Luke (Mexico) – Richard S. Mayson (OE) (7) (CL) (8) District Superintendent, Lynn A. Dyke (FE) (4) St. Paul (New Bloomfield) - Paris Fork – Brashear Charge: Brashear /Hurdland/Sabbath Home – TBS: Arnold G. Parks (CL) (5) Nancy Douglas (CL) (9) Stover – TBS: Dorothy Diane Cutler (RL) (21) Asbury – TBS: Paul H. Foglesong (SY) (4) Browning/Linneus/Haseville – Sue M. Lambert (RL) (5) Sturgeon - Riggs – Michael J. Will (FE) (5) Ashland – James W. Day (OF) 2) Bucklin/Mt. Zion – Monty Montgomery (PL) (5) Belle – Koenig – Sandra L. Dixon (PL) (8) Tipton - Fortuna – TBS: Richard L. Parker (RL) (5) Callao Charge: Callao/ Mt. Zion West – Sue Bethel (Mexico) – TBS Trinity (Moberly) – Michael M. Wondel (FE) (5) Wynne (SY) (3) Bethel (Readsville) – TBS: Mary Maddox (SY) (5) Associate – Patricia A. Miller (PL) (3) Centenary (Louisiana)/Clarksville – TBD Brunswick – TBS: Janet H. Schnepf (RE) (10) Versailles - Glensted – Dan E. Adkison (FE) (4) Clarence – Delbert Earlywine (PL) (4) California – Eric W. Moore (FE) (3) Vienna - Rader – Lynn M. Quist (FE) (1) Clark County Parish Camdenton – Marc Anthony Magaña (FE) (18) Water’s Edge (Columbia) – James Voigt, Jr. (FE) (2) Kahoka/ Wayland/Bluff Springs – Barb Hagerla (FL) (7) Centralia – TBS Wesley ( Jefferson City) – Thomas A. Vansant (FE) (4) Evangelical (Brookfield) – Ted Stockwell (RL) (4) Chamois – TBS West Park (Moberly) – Chester L. Heyer (PL) (9) Faith (Kirksville) – Sheila Swafford (FL) (8) Community (Columbia) – Curtis K. Olsen (FE) (1) Wilkes Boulevard (Columbia) – Meg K. First/ Hydesburg (Hannibal) – Dan Jones (PL) (2) Court Street-St. James (Fulton) – Rebecca Dunger Hegemann (FE) (5) First (Kirksville) – Richard Northcutt (FE) (7) Peak (FE) (1) Woodlandville – TBS: Karen Alden (RA) (4) Pastor of Adult Ministries – Amanda “Mandy” Eldon – Stephen B. George (FL) (3) Wiedeman (PL) (2) Fairview (Columbia) – Katherine McClain (FE) (4) 318.3 Students Appointed As Local Pastors Gorin – Steve Mitchell (SY) (2) Girdwood Chapel UMC, AK – Sandra S. Ward (PL) Associate: Minister of Music and Christian Green Castle/Prairie Chapel – Kerry “Arch” Philips (1): CC: Missouri UMC (PL) (3) Formation – Kathy Rollings (PD) (6) Faithbridge – Hugh H. (Buck) Cueni-Smith (FE) (7) Immanuel (Canton) – Amanda Ross (FE) (5) 331.1 Deacon Appointed Beyond the Local Church: First ( Jefferson City) – Daniel P. Hilty (FE) (9) Kendall – Virgil Clow (RA) (3) St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church (ELCA) – Nancy I. Knox County Parish: Bee Ridge/Edina/Knox City – Associate: Pastor of Discipleship – Keith G. Vessell Robertson (FD) (10) CC: Missouri UMC Sam Smith (FL) (6) (FE) (3) LaPlata – Karen Coy (RL) (2) Associate: Pastor of Congregational Care – Jeannie 344.1 a) (1) Extension Ministries - With Annuity Laclede/ Meadville – Richard Casady (FL) (4) Martin Dudenhoeffer (FE) (2) Claim on the Missouri Annual Conference Lewis County Faith Cooperative Parish: Centenary/ Glasgow – TBS: Brenda K. West (RE) (2) Assistant to the Bishop – TBS: Elmer E. Revelle (RE) Park-Lewistown/Monticello – TBD Gravois Mills – TBS: Michael A. Keith (RE) (3) (4) CC: Missouri UMC Luray /St. Francisville – Tom Lemons (PL) (5) Hallsville – Joe Crews (AM) (5) Associate Director of Mission & Outreach – Angela Macon – Carl Knapp (FE) (1) Harper Chapel – Jon L. Thompson (FE) (5) R. Olsen (FE) (1) CC: Community UMC Meghan Riegerix (PD) Huntsville - Clifton Hill – Jonathan L. Clark (PL) (2) Catalyst for Next Generation Ministries – Garrett Madison – Bonnie Sudsberry (RL) (5) Iberia – TBS: Paul H. Prater (RO) (2) Drake (PD) (2) Marceline – Doug Kraus (FE) (3) Jefferson Avenue (Moberly) – TBS: James R. Crooks Director of Center of Faith & Service – Lucas G. Memphis – Paul Smith (FE) (2) (RL) (3) Endicott (FE) (1) Mendon/Sumner – Martha Truax (PL) (5) Keytesville - Dalton: Immanuel – Harry A. Director of Center for Pastoral Excellence – Karen Milan/Green City – Andrew Coon (FE) (5) Cooper (PL) (3) Koons Hayden (FE) (5) CC: Missouri UMC Monroe Chapel – Elsie McNeil (PL) (3) Linn Creek – Rick Ginnings (OF) (7) Director of Connectional Ministries – Sherry J. Monroe City Charge Linn Memorial-St. Paul (Fayette) – Peggie A. Habben (FE) (7) CC: Community UMC Monroe City/Mt. Vernon – Olivia Earlywine Wood (FE)(1) Director of Financial and Administrative Ministries – (FL) (3) Maple Grove – TBS Nathanael R. Berneking (FE) (2) CC: Trinity Florida – Charles Bindemann (SY) (14) McCredie – TBS: Frederick R. Smith (RE) (1) UMC, Moberly Mt. Olivet/Durham/LaGrange – Steve Martin (FL) (6) Mexico – Karen S. Taylor (FE) (5) Director of Mission, Service and Justice Ministries – Mt. Zion-East – Cheryl Flaim (SY) (2) Midway Locust Grove – Dennis A. Harper (FE) (5) Jeffrey S. Baker (FL) (3) CC: Fairview UMC North Linn County Parish: Bear Branch/Pleasant Missouri (Columbia) – Amy L. Gearhart (FE) (5) District Superintendent, Mid-State District – Lynn A. Grove – Ted Stockwell (RL) (5) Associate: Pastor of Administration – Larry A. Dyke (FE) (4) Novinger – TBS Williams (FE) (3) Palmyra – Eric Anderson (FE) (7) Associate: Pastor of Church Life & Growth – Molly 344.1 b) Extension Ministries - Without Annuity Paris – Lin Donnelly (PL) (3) K. Moore (FD) (6) Claim on the Missouri Annual Conference Park (Hannibal) – Bob Seaman (FE) (1) Associate: Pastor of New Generations – Trista Chaplain VA Hospital – TBS: Alan W. Helland (RE) Saverton Ilasco (Hannibal) – Kathy Redmond (CL) (7) Soendker Nicholson (FE) (3) (43) CC: Community UMC Scott’s Chapel (Hannibal) – Linda Spaun (PL) (6) Associate: Pastor of Youth – Hank A. Jenkins (PD)(1) Scotland County Parish: Arbela/ Downing Mt. Carmel - Otterbein – TBS: Stephen Mallinckrodt 354.1 a) Leave Of Absence: /Granger – Nate Frazee (SY) (2) (SY) (13) John J. Kerr (FE) (13) CC: Wesley UMC, Jefferson City Shelbina/Hunnewell/Lowman Chapel Mt. Zion (California) – TBS: Michael Jackman (SY) (15) Shelbina/Hunnewell – Tony Townley (AM) (1) Nelson Memorial (Boonville) – Nickolas J. Campbell 354.2 b) Family Leave: Lowman Chapel – Virgil Clow (RA) (5) (FE) (4) Sarah C. Evans (FE) (7) CC: First UMC, Jefferson City Siloam Chapel/Zion – New Bloomfield – Joan E. DeBoe (PL) (2) Siloam Chapel – David Stahl (SY) (5) New Franklin – Clayton F. Blodgett (PL) (8) 357 Medical Leave: Philip Joseph Smith (PL) (13) New Hope (Clark) – TBS: Richard D. Curry (RE) (4) James E. West (FE) (2) CC: Glasgow UMC South Eagle (Brookfield) – William Montgomery (SY) (21) New Horizons (Columbia) – Heather M. Trinity (Brookfield) – Michael White (FE) (17) Morgan (OF) (3) 359.1 Honorable Location: Unionville – Homer Poor (FL) (2) Otterville - Wesley Chapel – TBS: William H. William D. Crawford CC: Nelson Memorial UMC Janet Petty Kohler CC: Eldon UMC United Methodist Faith Parish Campbell (CL) (6) Lancaster – Jim Quist (FE) (1) Ozark Chapel – Richard T. White (FE) (12) 359.3 Honorable Location Retired: Greentop – Bob Nothdurft (SY) (4) & Pleasant Green – TBS: Dan Page (SY) (14) Greg O. Mathis CC: Camdenton UMC Carolyn Leaver (PL) (3) Pleasant Grove – Rebecca L. Mulford (FL) (1) Richard L. Todd CC: Epworth, Rehoboth Beach, DE Trinity – Debbie Nothdurft (SY) (8) Prairie Chapel – TBS: Rick Matson (CL) (2) Vandalia – Helen McFarland (RE) (2) Prairie Home - Jamestown – Steven R. Jones (PL) (1) Yarrow – Sue Head (CL) (8) Red Rock – TBS: Jane L. Crooks (RL) (3) OZARKS NORTH DISTRICT River Circuit: Mokane - Steedman - Tebbetts – Bart Hildreth, District Superintendent (FE) (8) 344.1 a) (1) EXTENSION MINISTRIES - With Patricia A. Tynes (PL) (3) Annuity Claim on the Missouri Annual Conference Rocheport – Thomas E. Levin (PL) (1) Antioch/Christ (Springfield) – Kevin J. Cawley (FE) (8) Dale Stone, Superintendent, Mark Twain District, 210 Russellville – Arthur R. Moore (PL) (3) Asbury (Springfield) – Melissa Dodd (FE) (1) N. Elson, Suite C, PO Box 776, Kirksville, MO 63501 Salisbury – TBS: John H. Hoos (RE) (3) Ash Grove United Methodist/ Presbyterian – (O:660-665-8497) (C:660-216-9685) (FE) (5) Shiloh (Holts Summit) – Clayton A. Peak (FE) (1) Rev. Bill Havens (OF) (5) www.moumethodist.org 43 Bear Creek/Shiloh – Mike Banks (PL) (2) Blue Eye – Jack Smith (RO) (3) Deer Park Grace/South Park – Bois D’Arc, St. Luke – Kimberly Polchow (FL) (9) Branson – Stacie Williams (PE) (2) Co-Pastor – Kyle Butler (OE) (1) Bolivar – John “J.C.” Harp (FE) (4) Associate – Doyle Carroll (RO) (1) Co-Pastor – Stephanie Theis. – (PL) (1) Broadway (Springfield)/Ebenezer – J. Mark Cabool/Willow Springs – Greg Dowler (AM) (1) Dockery Chapel – Douglas W. Franklin (FE) (7) Hansche (PL) (3) Campbell (Springfield) – R. Andrew Bryan (FE) (7) Elmo/Clearmont – TBS: Connie R. Eighmy (SY) (7) Buffalo, First – TBS H. Allen Howell (RL) (7) Associate – Emily Carroll (FE) (1) Fairfax – Roger B. Cary (FL) (4) Buffalo, Grace Community – Kenneth E. Cassidy – Charlene Dart (FL) (2) Fairview – TBS: Richard B. Smith (SY) (11) Johnson (FE) (8) Clever – Kirby Holbrook (PL) (4) First (Bethany) – Michael D. Dunlap (FL) (1) Conway/Niangua – TBS: Gerald E. Klaus (SY) (15) Ebenezer II – TBA First (Maryville) – Scott A. Moon (FE) (6) Cross Timbers – TBS: Josh Ritzheimer (PL) (3) Elm Grove – Todd C. Staples (PL) (22) Francis Street First – Susan K. Ventura (FE) (9) Dixon – Greg Olsen (LM) (2) Eminence/Birch Tree – Julie Sanders (PL) (3) Gallatin/Jamesport – Co- Pastor – Mark W. Elwood – TBS: Charolette Bassett (PL) (2) Fordland – David Stokes (PL) (4) Morehouse (PL) (6) Fair Grove – Barbara McKenzie (PL) (3) Forsyth – Larry Lawman (FE) (12) Co-Pastor – Rebecca D. Morehouse (SY) (6) Fair Play – Jodi Burch (PL) (4) Haymes Chapel/Elkland – Dwight Gressel (PL) (6) Gilman City – Kobey D. Puls (PL) (3) Fairview (Bolivar) – Rex Warren (PL) (2) Houston – Terry Lippstreu (FE) (1) Grundy Center – TBS: Jerry Henderson (SY) (11) Fairview (Lebanon) – TBS: Hubert Parnell (PL) (5) Hurley – Joyce Louise Rush (PL) (21) Guilford/Barnard – Co Pastor – Jerry Davidson (PL) (2) Grace – Diana H. Smith (FE) (6) Kimberling City – Cliffton Crocket (FE) (4) Co-Pastor – Christopher Bond (SY) (2) Hazelgreen – TBS: Ann Decker (LM) (8) Associate – Brian Smith (OF) (2) Hamilton – Scott A. Beard (PE) (4) Lebanon, First - Rick Broadway (FE) (1) King’s Way (Springfield) – Jon Spalding (FE) (7) Hammer Memorial (King City) – David G. Lowry City/Vista – Fred Stevens (PL) (2) Associate – Ashley Kirk – (LP) (1) Howlett (FE) (2) Morrisville/Aldrich – Patty Smith (PL) (3) Licking - J.Robert Webster (FL) (4) Hatton Chapel – Michael L.Tipton (PL) (2) Mt. Carmel/Pitts Chapel (Springfield) – Richard Fine LifeSong - Rob Barringer (FE) (5) Helena/Union Star – Robert L. Caldwell (AM) (15) (FE) (2) Mansfield/Hartville - Kim Miller (PL) (6) Huffman Memorial – Gary A. Carter (FE) (3) Mt. Gilead – Nick Van Dam (LM) (1) Marshfield – Gary Lee Griffin (FE) (8) Kidder – Richard W. Evans (PL) (8) Mt. Pleasant/Stoutland – Rob Day (PL) (3) Associate – Dwight Gressel (PL) (10) Kirkley Chapel – TBS: Tom D. Hogan (SY) (12) Newburg – Pat Adams (PL) (3) Mountain Grove Trinity – Fred Royer (RE) (3) Liberty/Pleasant Grove – John M. Mutombo (OE) (4) New Hope – Cliff Saupe (LM) (2) Mountain View/Pleasant Grove – Andrew Maitland/Graham – Connie J. Ury (PL) (17) Onward – Roy Flynn (OF) (2) Sanders (PL) (3) Maysville – David R. Lucas (FL) (5) Osceola Grace/Humansville – Jeff Jaekley (PE) (2) Mount Hermon – Gaye Lynn Blankenship (LM) (3) Morris Chapel/Wesley Chapel – Cristy E. Clark (PL) (13) Pathways (Springfield) – Michael Blacksher (FE) (1) Mt. Pisgah – Carol Ann Chilton (LM) (4) Mound City/Sharp’s Grove – Jeremy Blevins (FE) (3) Paris Springs – Larry Hall (PL) (3) Nixa, Aldersgate – Dennis Miller (FL) (9) New Hampton/Martinsville/Mitchelville – TBS: Phillipsburg – Loyd Hefner (SY) (3) Associate – Phil Brucks (PL) (9) Paul Zimmerman (RE) (1) Pleasant Hope – Ron McIntire (PL) (1) Associate – Sarah Fotopolus (PL) (1) Nodaway-Worth Cty Par: Grant City/Ravenwood/ Pomme de Terre – Ellen Hoff (FE) (3) Norwood – TBS Ura C. Hardin (SY) (42) Hopkins/Pickering/ /Sheridan – Janis (Tobias) Prairie Chapel – Jeff Cole (FL) (3) Ozark – Steve Blacksher (FE) (2) Roorda (PL) (3) Richland – Mitch Henson (PE) (3) Pleasant Hill – Wally W. Jones (PL) (12) Co-Pastor – Travis L. Dimmitt (SY) (6) Rolla, First – Timothy R. Lee (FE) (10) Raymondville – TBS Margaret Kramer (RO) (9) Co-Pastor – Tim J. Wall (SY) (6) Associate – Michael Summers (FL) (1) Republic, Hood – Jim Oman (FE) (1) Oregon/Forest City – Megan R. Winget (FE) (3) St. James – Amy Beth Turner (FE) (12) Rogersville – Joan Keiser (SY) (1) Osborn/Weatherby – Paul S. Pribil (PL) (5) Schweitzer (Springfield) – Robert L. Casady (FE) (15) St. Luke (Webster County) – Wanda Heideman Parnell – TBS: Wesley Foundation, Maryville (11) Associate Jim Mason (FL) (8) (LM) (1) Pattonsburg Ct.: Pattonsburg/Heath – TBS: J. Wil- Associate – Jason Leininger (PE) (1) Salem – J. Douglas Walter (FE) (8) liam (Bill) Hendrix (SY) (5) Associate – Mark McKnelly (FL) (1) Seymour – Ron D. Brown (OF) (10) Prairie Chapel – Joel Hendren (PL) (2) Sleeper – Marsha Vincent (PL) (6) Strafford – John Inmon (PL) (3) Princeton/Mercer – Sean A. Hammond (PL) (1) Stockton – Jim Coffer (FE) (2) Theodosia – TBS Eugene West (RA) (5) Ridgeway/Eagleville – TBS: Gina M. Lucas (SY) 6) Walnut Grove – James W. ( Jim) Smith (RL) (1) Wesley (Springfield) – Scott Bailey-Kirk (FE) (1) Rock Port/Watson – Bruce W. Jeffries (FE) 7) Waynesville – William O’Neal (FE) (5) Associate – Mi Hyeon Lee (FE) (8) Savannah – Cynthia M. Buhman (FE) (5) Willard – Harold Gold (RE) (1) Warden Chapel – Paula Kootz (PL) (8) Associate – Terry B. Weaver (PL) (1) Yeakley Chapel (Springfield) – TBA West Plains – Mark J. Mildren (FE) (15) Skidmore/Burr Oak – TBS: Wesley Foundation, Associate: David Stuckey (FL) (2) Maryville (14) 344.1 a) (1) Extension Ministries – With Annuity Sparta – Rodney M. Krumme (PL) (21) Claim on the Missouri Annual Conference 344.1 a) (1) Extension Ministries – With Annuity Spickard – Co-Pastor – H. R. Rogers (PL) (2) Superintendent, Ozarks North District – Claim on the Missouri Annual Conference G. Dean Ranes (SY) (3) Bart Hildreth (FE) (8) Superintendent, Ozarks South District – Co-Pastor – Rebecca S. Stephens (SY) (2) Bart Hildreth (FE) (3) Star Chapel – TBS: William C. Wasson (RE) (3) 344.1 b) Extension Ministries – Without Annuity St. Joseph: Restart – Leanna L. Van Zandt (PE) (1) Claim on the Missouri Annual Conference 354.1 a) Leave of Absence: Thomas Murph (FE) St. Paul – Laura H. Blevins (FE) (6) Council of Churches of the Ozarks – Mark CC: Wesley (Springfield) Tarkio/Westboro – Hugo Villagrana (PE) (3) W. Struckhoff (FE) (7) CC: Asbury Wesley (St. Joseph) – James E. Barnett (FL) (19) Resource Services - Richard Blackman PONY EXPRESS DISTRICT Wesley (Trenton) – Barry P. Boulware (FE) (16) (FE) (18) CC: Schweitzer Stephen L. Cox, District Superintendent (FE) (7) Willow Row – TBS: David L. Hilsabeck (SY) (11) Chaplain, United States Army – Douglas S. Thomison (FE) (15) CC: Willard 331.1 Deacons Appointed Beyond the Local Church Tools For Life – Lori Lampert (FD) (1) Agency/Mt. Moriah – Darla K. Bradley (PL) (6) Wesley Foundation, NWMSU – Don C. Ehlers (PD) Albany/Stanberry – Bendi A. Burgin (FE) (11) (34), CC: Maryville, First 354.1 a) Leave of Absence: Altamont – TBS: Marilyn C. Dorst (RL) (20) 344.1a Extension Ministries - With Annuity Claim Glen A. Murphy (FE) CC: Richland Amazonia – TBS on the Missouri Annual Conference Amity/Winston – TBS: Eugene Keats (CL) (5) Superintendent, Pony Express District – Stephen L. Ashland – Gary M. DeWitt (FE) (7) 357.1 Incapacity Leave Cox (FE) (7) Associate – Teresa J. DeWitt (PL) (5) Robert McQueen (FE) CC: Asbury Wesley Foundation, NWMSU – Marjean Potter Burlington Junction/Wilcox – Norma Villagrana (PE) (2) Ehlers (FE) (34), CC: Maryville, First Cameron – Cathy G. Myers (FE) (1) OZARKS SOUTH DISTRICT Chillicothe – John H. Rice (FE) (4) 344.1 d Extension Ministries – Without Annunity Bart Hildreth, District Superintendent (FE) (8) Associate – Randal C. DeMasters (FE) (1) Claim on the Missouri Annual Conference Clair/Ebenezer – Benjamin C. Mulford (FE) (3) Chaplain, MO Dept of Corr/WRDCC – Kent A. Alton/Thayer – Denzil Thomas (FE) (2) Cosby Zion/Clarksdale – Co-Pastor TBS: Darwin Mercer (FE) (17), CC: Francis Street First Anutt – TBS Gaye Lynn Blankenship (LM) (1) St. Myers (CL) (3) Ava – Matt Kerner (FL) (1) Co-Pastor TBS: Marvin Fine (SY) (3) 354.2a Leave of Absence: Battlefield - TBS Frederick Zahn (RE) (8) Culbertson Chapel (Stewartsville) – Kevin D. Sandra Monsees Davis (FE) (6), CC: Parnell Billings/Mt. Olive – TBS Jeff Carr (LM) (1) Mabury (PL) (17) 44 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists 357 Medical Leave Naylor – TBS: Paula JoLynn Moore (LM) (10) Jasper – TBS:Gary Thomas (RE) (5) Peggy L. Jeffries (FE) (9) CC: Rock Port Nelson Memorial (East Prairie) – Brian Pate Jerico Springs – TBS:Lowell Mize (RE) (1) Abbott (PL) (3) Joplin Churches: 359.1 Honorable Location: New McKendree ( Jackson) – J. David Israel, Sr. (FE) (4) Byers Avenue/Oronogo – Max Raney (PL) (5) Larry D. Hartell (FE) (15) CC: Wesley, St. Joseph New Salem (Daisy) - Steven Paul Koerner (PL) (3) Christ’s Community – Christopher Sloan (FE) (25) Perryville/Crossroads - David Brian Duncan (FL) (1) Associate – Robert Dart (AM) (15) SOUTHEAST DISTRICT Rauch Spence Memorial (Morehouse) – TBS: Associate – William “Ty” Walkenshaw (PL) (1) Fred Leist, District Superintendent (FE) (3) Toni Marie Dee (RL) (3) First – Bruce Jacobs (FE) (3) Reagan’s Chapel (Patton)/Pine Hill (Patton) – Royal Heights – Terri Haywood (PL) (4) Advance – TBS: Jerry Lee Willer (RA) (6) TBS: Eddie G. Rhodes (RE) (2) St. James – Sharon Freeman (PL) (2) Bell City – Susan Lee Welborn (PL) (3) Scopus/Old Union – Karla Susanne Kiefer (PL) (3) St. Paul’s – Aaron Brown (FE) (20) Bernie/Sadlers Chapel – David M Fowler (FE) (3) Sedgewickville/Patton – Pamela Kay Ekey (FE) (1) Associate – Ben Bainbridge (FL) (2) Bertrand - TBS: Lois M. McRill (LM) (12) Smith Chapel (Sikeston) – TBS: Roger N. Jespersen Associate – Chris Sams (PL) (2) Broadway (Scott City)/St. Paul (Commerce) – (RE) (7) Associate – Joe Crosthwait (PL) (2) TBS: W. Michael Woods (RE) (2) St. Luke (Hayti) – TBS: Karl Douglas Humes (LM) (5) Trinity – TBS: George Triplett (LM) (16) Campbell/Sumach – TBS: Michael Scot Bell (LM) (3) Trinity (Bloomfield) – Alice Ann Fowler (FE) (3) Kendricktown – TBS: Carthage UMC Centenary (Cape Girardeau) – David W. Conley (FE) (3) Trinity (Oran) – Tammy L Hargis (PL) (1) Lamar – Mark Turnbough (FE) (2) Associate – Karen J. Nothdurft (FD) (6) Trinity (Piedmont) – Jeff Welker Johnson (FE) (2) Lawrenceburg/Miller – TBS Charleston – David Randall Collum (FE) (2) Tucker (Doniphan) – TBS: Lay Speakers Liberal/Iantha – Roger McKee (PL) (3) Coldwater – TBS: Willard D. Snyder (RL) (8) Wesley (Fruitland) – TBS: William Darrell Minor Liberty/New Liberty – Nancy DeJager (PL) (1) Dogwood – TBS: Stella A. Turner (RA) (2) (RO) (3) Lockwood – Travis James (FL) (4) Doniphan/Neelyville – Kent Edward Wilfong (FE) (3) Wesley (Sikeston) - Ryan Scott Griffin (FL) (2) Marionville – Melissa Bailey- Kirk (FE) (1) Eastwood Memorial (Caruthersville) – Jerry Lee Wesley Memorial (Steele)/Cooter – Todd R Holman Monett Christ – TBS Mattson (FL) (2) (FL) (3) Monett First – Paul Lanning (FE) (4) Ellington/Van Buren – TBS: Jim C. Cooper (RL) (2) Whitewater – TBS: Donald Lawrence Kuehle (RE) (8) Moundville/Bronaugh – Kay Zimmer (PL) (3) Ellsinore/Grandin – Robby Eugene Calvert (PL) (6) Williamsville/Grace (Greenville) – Jeffrey L Estes (FL) (2) Mt. Vernon – Jill Daniel (FE) (5) Essex/Parma – Roy Lee Sherfield (PL) (5) Zion (Gordonville) – Joel Philip Kidwell (FE) (5) Nashville – TBS: First UMC Joplin First (Chaffee)/Grace (Rockview) – Gwenell N Zion (Old Appleton) – TBS: Lay Speakers Neosho – Sara Chaney (FE) (6) Streeter (PL) (3) Nevada – Linda Pagel (FE) (3) First (Dexter) – Barry E. Winders (FE) (2) 344.1 a) (1) Extension Ministries With Annuity New Hope – TBS: Randy Steele (LM) (15) First (Hayti)/Deering – Leo Wesley House, III (PL) (4) Claim on the Missouri Annual Conference Noel/Southwest City/Pineville – Mary Lou Toft First (Hornersville)/Caruth/Faith (Kennett) – Jim Superintendent, Southeast District – Fred Leist (FE) (3) (FE) (1) Pemberton (PL) (7) Oakton/Golden City – Kent Garfield (FL) (2) First (Kennett) – Trevor Wade Dancer (FE) (3) 344.1 b) Extension Ministries Without Annuity Associate – TBS: Larry Garfield (RL) (2) First (New Madrid)/Lilbourn – Eric Mattson (FE) (4) Claim on the Missouri Annual Conference Associate – Aaron Talbott (PL) (2) First (Poplar Bluff ) – David A. Stewart (FE) (4) Chaplain, United States Naval Reserves Thomas J. Pathways/Mt. Moriah – Joe Miller (FL) (1) First (Portageville) – Barron Scott Willer (FE) (3) Statler (FE) (15) CC: Cape Girardeau: Grace UMC Pierce City/Dry Valley – Robert Summers (PL) (6) First (Puxico)/Fairview (Puxico) – TBS Pleasant Hill – Kevin McNeely (PL) (1) First (Senath)/Coldwater Chapel (Senath) – 354.2 a) Leave of Absence Plentitude – Ymbar Planco (FL) (5) TBS: Ronnie Gerald Dunavin (RE) (5) Paula Austin (FD) (15) CC: Cape Girardeau: Red Oak – TBS: St. Paul’s First (Sikeston) – Geoffrey W. Posegate (FE) (10) Centenary UMC Sarcoxie – James Yost (PL)(4) Associate – Jennifer W Moxley (PE) (1) Lynn Crader (FE) (17) CC: Sikeston First UMC Schell City/Horton/Metz – Connie Locke (PL)(8) Associate – Zachary Wayne McIntyre (FL) (1) G. Thomas Gross (FE) (20) CC: Gordonville: Zion UMC Seneca – Cynthia Royce (PL) (7) Fredericktown) – Lora Lynn Cunningham (FL) (3) Jeremiah Reeve (PE) (5) CC: Sikeston: First UMC Sheldon – Ethen Wayne Coble (PL) (3) Glen Allen) – Kimberly Anne Mitchell (PL) (4) Shell Knob – Barry Fielder(AM)(4) Good Hope (Poplar Bluff )) – James Clifton 357.1 Incapacity Leave Wanda – TBS: CCUMC Bryant (PL) (2) Ruth A. Edwards (AM) (12) CC: Kennett: First UMC Washburn/Simsberry – Debra Alumbaugh (PL) (5) Grace (Cape Girardeau) – Thomas W. Sullenger (FE) (6) Webb City Central – Clint Lambeth (PE) (2) Grace (Poplar Bluff ) – James Clifton Bryant (PL) (8) Wheaton – Derek Harmon (PL) (5) SOUTHWEST DISTRICT Hobbs Chapel (Cape Girardeau) – Stanley D. Mark Statler, District Superintendent (FE) (2) Hargis (PL) (1) 344.1a) Extension Ministries, With Annuity Claim Hobbs Chapel (Dudley) – TBS: David L Dee (LM) (3) Southwest District Superintendent – Mark Statler (FE) (2) Illmo (Scott City) – TBS: James William Woeltje (RL) (5) All Faith (Eagle Rock) – Karen Tutak (FL) (4) 344.1b) Extension Ministries, Without Annuity La Croix (Cape Girardeau) – Ronald L. Watts (FE) (27) Anderson/Stella – Pam Jackson (FL) (4) Claim Associate – Bruce Edgar Baxter (FE) (1) Aurora – Kathy Osiel (FL) (3) Chaplain/U.S.Navy – Bruce AllenVaughan, III (FE) Lake Wappapello (Wappapello) – Catherine S. Avilla/Bethel – TBS: Crystal Wicks (RL) (7) (12) CC: Carthage FirstUMC Bryant (PL) (2) Carl Junction – William (Bill) Kenagy (FL) (2) Lowndes – TBS: Lay Speakers Carterville – Bob Wynne(LP) (1) 346.1 Serving Other Annual Conferences Malden/Holcomb – TBS: Thomas Edward Zych (RE) (2) Carthage – James Lee (FE) (12) Brian Rainwater (FE) CC: Marionville UMC Maple (Cape Girardeau) – Bryan Schaefer (FE) (3) Cassville – Andy Lambel (FE) (4) Marble Hill – Michael Lee Hargraves (FE) (2) Dadeville/Greenfield – Gerald Powley (PL) (1) 359.1 Honorable Location Marquand/Rhodes Chapel – Kimberly Mitchell (PL) (1) Diamond/Granby – Larry Courtney (PL) (1) Mark Shaffer (FE) CC: Carthage First UMC Millersville – TBS: J. Michael Davis (RE) (3) Hume – Eric England (PL) (1) Roger Nichols (FE) CC: First UMC, Joplin

www.moumethodist.org

www.moumethodist.org 45 Ways to Read The Missouri Methodists

Individual Mailed Subscription Read Via Email This magazine is automatically sent to all clergy and Subscribe for free to have a PDF of each issue emailed selected church leaders, but is also available to anyone to you by selecting The Missouri Methodists at for $20 per year. Send checks payable to the Missouri www.moumethodist.org/stayconnected Conference to Lorraine Sanders at 3601 Amron Court, Columbia, MO, 65202. Use An App Bulk Subscriptions The magazine is available as an app for most smartphones and tablets. Just search your usual marketplace (like iTunes This is a good way for churches to distribute to members at connect or Google Play Store) for Missouri Methodists. less than half the cost of individual subscriptions. Share & Speak Up Prices are $100 to receive a box of 10 magazines monthly for a year, 25 magazines monthly for $200; 50 magazines Reading this magazine on paper or online? Don’t forget to for $350, or 100 magazines for $500 per year. Send checks share. Paper copies can be passed around, and links to the payable to the Missouri Conference to Lorraine Sanders at digital version can be e-mailed, posted on social media or 3601 Amron Court, Columbia, MO, 65202. posted on websites. If you have anything you would like to share about the magazine, or if you want to connect Fred Read Online Koenig, Editor of The Missouri Methodists, with a talented Every issue of The Missouri Methodists is available on our writer, photographer or videographer in your congregation, website at www.moumethodist.org/momethodists. e-mail [email protected].

46 July 2014 | The Missouri Methodists JULY 24, 2014 Mission U 2014 Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Location: Central Methodist University, Fayette MO Contact: Katie Willis, [email protected]

Mission U is a cooperative event with the Creative Ministries team and United Methodist Women. Come and learn about the Roma of Europe, How it is with your Soul and how the church deals with people with disabilities.

———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

JULY 26, 2014 50th Year Celebration at Wilderness Camping & Retreat Center Location: Wilderness Camping & Retreat Center, 34030 W 204th St., Lawson, MO 64062

WRDC is celebrating its 50th year in 2014! Join us for a celebration of all that has happened here since 1964. There will be time in the afternoon to tour and enjoy the facilities. A meal will be provided in the early evening along with a guest speaker. Following the dinner and speaker will be a concert by a well-known Christian artist. Stay tuned for more details.

———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

AUGUST 1-2, 2014 Missouri Conference School of Lay Ministry Time: Starts at 6:00 p.m. on August 1 and ends at 12:00 p.m. on August 2 Location: Woods Chapel UMC, 4725 NE Lakewood Way, Lee’s Summit, MO Coordinator: Jeff Fothergill, [email protected]

The 2014 Conference School of Lay Ministry will be held on August 1 & 2 at Woods Chapel UMC in Lee’s Summit, MO. Continuing the Annual Conference theme of Passionate Worship, this year’s school will give Laity tools and solid steps to assist Pastors in fostering an environment of passionate worship. Specific speakers and additional details will be added over the next few weeks.

Offering Totals at Annual Conference

Gondola Training Center: $12,249 Haiti Water Project: $28,654 Heifer Project International: $7,568 Imagine No Malaria (Since Campaign Began): $1,116,302 Ludhiana Christian Medical College: $4,859.51 The Vision (Mozambique Initiative): $5,599.88

Totals represent offering plate collection only, and does not include texted donations or pledges.

www.moumethodist.org 47 THE MISSOURI METHODISTS

Missouri Annual Conference 3601 Amron Court Columbia, MO 65202