Joyfully Following Jesus
Annual Sessions 2015 (June 18-20) Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Conference
Broadway United Methodist Church
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Contents
Schedule for Annual Sessions 2015 ...... 3 Procedural Rules for Delegates ...... 4
Chapter 1 Conference Program ...... 6 Delegates to Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Conference ...... 6 Conference Personnel ...... 11 Geographic Locations of Congregations ...... 13 Missional Seeds Members ...... 14
Chapter 2 Items for Discussion and/or Action ...... 15 Annual Sessions 2014 Minutes and Proceedings ...... 15 Gifts Development Team Report ...... 22
Chapter 3 Missional Leadership Team and Staff ...... 28 ...... 28 Missional Leadership Team Summary Report...... 28 Administrative Team Report ...... 28 Conference Staff Report ...... 29
Chapter 4 Commisions/Committees/Teams ...... 31 Advisory Council ...... 31 Leadership Enhancement Team Report ...... 32 Ministry Credentialing Team Report ...... 33 Leadership Report of Credentialed Persons ...... 33 Stewardship Team ...... 35 Journey ...... 35 Transitional Ministry Training Report ...... 36 Conference Historian Report ...... 37 History Project Report...... 37 Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Women ...... 38 Corinthian Plan ...... 39
Chapter 5 Conference Institutions ...... 39 Amigo Centre ...... 39 Bethany Christian Schools ...... 40
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Schedule for Annual Sessions 2015 IN-MI Mennonite Conference Annual Sessions Broadway United Methodist Church June 18 20, 2015, Indianapolis, Indiana
Thursday, June 18 11:00 am 7:00 pm Registration open 11:30 am 12:15 pm Lunch 12:30 am 5:30 pm Workshops 6:30 pm 8:30 pm Pastor Appreciation meal (Non-pastors: dinner on your own)
Friday, June 19 Breakfast on your own 8:00 am Registration opens 8:30 9:30 am Opening worship 9:45 11:45 pm Worshipful work 12:00 1:15 pm Lunch General lunch Congregational Coaches Lunch 1:30 5:00 pm Worshipful work (30 minute break) 5:30 6:30 pm Dinner 7:00 8:30 pm Friday evening worship 9:00 pm Affinity conversations
Saturday, June 20 Breakfast on your own 8:15 11:00 am Gathering and outings 11:30 1:00 pm Lunches General lunch Mennonite
1:15 3:00 pm Worshipful work 3:30 4:30 Ending worship
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Procedural Rules for Delegates Adapted from the special rules approved at the beginning of the 2007 Mennonite Church USA Delegate Assembly held in San José, California.
IN-MI constitutional provisions for decision making at Annual Sessions: The conference shall seek consensus or broad affirmation in all decisions. Where available time does not allow for consensus or where circumstances are not deemed to require broad affirmation, the conference may proceed by majority vote. A majority of votes cast shall determine any matter, except when the delegates agree otherwise or when otherwise provided in the constitution or bylaws. A quorum shall consist of all properly recognized delegates present at a duly called assembly meeting.
Delegates representing IN- manner that allows for due consideration. Balancing these goals is typically difficult, especially in decision- making bodies as large as ours.
Parliamentary procedure is used to help groups, especially large ones, balance the goals of timely action and due consideration. It does so by standardizing procedures through a system of rules that establish who may speak, about what, when, and for how long. Most people are not familiar with these rules and as a result tend to experience parliamentary procedures as cumbersome. So far no one has developed a less cumbersome and yet fair way to balance these competing goals. This document is adapted from the Procedural Rules for Delegates successfully followed at Mennonite Church USA Charlotte 2005 Delegate Assembly, and is an effort to make parliamentary procedure feel a bit more user friendly. .
Basic rules In an effort to allow as many persons as possible to be heard, please follow these basic rules: Only delegates may make motions or vote on them. Do not address the assembly more than twice in a day on any one topic. Before you speak a second time on one topic, make sure that no one else who has not yet spoken on that topic wishes to do so. When you go to the microphone to address the assembly, wait to be recognized by the moderator. Once recognized, state your name and (if appropriate) the group you represent before making your remarks. Only speak on behalf of a group if you have been specifically commissioned to do so. In order to keep the discussion from becoming personal, always address the moderator rather than a previous speaker or someone else in the meeting. Always speak respectfully. If you disagree with another person who has spoken, please describe that point of view with respect. So that the group can put your remarks in context, always indicate whether you are speaking in favor of or against the proposal that is being discussed.
Parliamentary procedures commonly used During the delegate session, if you want to introduce a motion, raise a question, or extend discussion, please follow these procedures: If you want to amend a main motion, limit or extend debate on a motion, or lay a motion on the table, you need to make a motion to that effect while the main motion is still under consideration. To do so, seek recognition from the moderator and then make the motion. (
To object to the consideration of a motion, call for a more precise vote, ask a question about parliamentary procedure or offer information on a question, first seek recognition of the moderator and
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then state your business.
To call for a recess, adjournment, or a question of privilege (to rectify some problem that is distracting the assembly, for instance), seek the recognition of the moderator and after recognition make the motion. question of privilege is.) Many motions require a second. This guarantees that at least one other person is interested in the proposal. ) Any motion that comes from a committee does not need a second since the support of a committee already indicates that the body is interested in the motion. if there is any objection to ending discussion, then the delegate body will need to take a vote on your proposal to end discussion.
New motions and/or amendments to motions that are on the agenda We will conduct our business according to the following rules which are commonly used in large assemblies that must get their work done in a relatively short period of time. Any motion that brings substantive business to the body must be taken to the moderator or moderator- elect before it can be brought to the floor. The purpose of this is to make sure that the assembly only takes time to consider clear and appropriate motions. Likewise, amendments to resolutions that appear on the agenda must be presented to the moderator or moderator-elect before they can be brought to the floor for discussion. The purpose for this rule is the same as above.
For more specific information on the kinds of motions you can make and the rules that apply to them, see Roberts Rules of Order Newly Revised (10th edition). If you have questions about parliamentary procedure during the delegate sessions, we invite you to ask the designated parliamentarian about appropriate procedures during a break.
We hope that the procedures described above will enable Annual Sessions to be times of discernment together. Come prepared to hear God's voice as we worshipfully work together.
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Chapter 1 Conference Program
DELEGATES to INDIANA-MICHIGAN MENNONITE CONFERENCE, JUNE 2014
Congregational delegates include:
1. All ordained and licensed ministers with active CE = Chair of Elders congregational assignments: E = Elder OM = Ordained Minister 3. One delegate representing financial matters: LM = Licensed Minister F = Financial rep DE = Deacon 4. One delegate for each 150 members or fraction thereof: 2. One elder or comparable leader: D = Delegate CC = Congregational Chair
Ann Arbor Mennonite Church Bonneyville Mennonite Church OM Chibuzor Ozor OM Dale Shenk LM Mike Score LM Marcella Hershberger F Virginia Ryan CC Kurt Eby Assembly Mennonite Church F Don Stauffer OM Dawn Yoder Harms Burr Oak Mennonite Church OM Karl Shelly OM Philip Leichty LM Lora Nafziger OM Virginia Leichty CC Keith Graber Miller OM Debbie Voss D Joyce Hostetler CC Laura Nolen D Linford Martin CE Rich Warne F John Nafziger D Floyd Legler Belmont Mennonite Church/Neighborhood Flshp D Jim Marchand OM Larry Rohrer F Juli Leichty OM Amanda Yoder Carroll Community Worship Center OM Russell Jensen OM Verlin Haarer CC Eldon Heatwole E Jim Rowe F Pete Gingerich F Jim Rowe Benton Mennonite Church Cedar Grove Mennonite Church OM Doug Kaufman OM James Troyer OM Brenda Meyer CC Mike Sheppard CC Lyn Buschert E Douglas Troyer D Helene Hoover F Mike Sheppard F Bruce Nofziger D Susan E Barham Berkey Avenue Mennonite Fellowship Church Without Walls OM Dan Schrock OM Cora Brown OM Marilyn Rudy-Froese OM Jonathan Brown LM Lois Stoltzfus Mast D Louise Millsaps CC Greg Smucker E Sabrina Gipson D Beth Berry D Darin Short F Barbara Eichorn Bethel Mennonite Church OM Joe Pendleton CC George Smith CE Wallace Yordy F Ryan Gnagey
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College Mennonite Church First Mennonite Church, Fort Wayne OM Daniel Yoder OM Peter Janzen OM Marty Lehman CC Dave Pettigrew OM Pamela Yoder E Carolyn Vanice OM Phil Waite F Tom Meyer LM Lee Dengler First Mennonite Church, Indianapolis LM Susan Dengler OM Steve Thomas (Transitional) LM Talashia Keim Yoder LM Shannon Dycus LM Wilfred Kanagy CC Erwin Boschmann CE John Yordy CE Andrea Grotenhuis D Beth Bontrager D David Hovde D James E Horsch D Hollins Showalter D John Lapp D Robert Walson D Ron Kennel E Lisa Schloneger Community Christian Fellowship First Mennonite Church, Middlebury OM Sam Wilson OM Kent Miller E Evelyn Mannn Carter OM Derrick Ramer E James Bell CE Robin Tahara Miller F Denise Colona D Dennis Rheinheimer East Goshen Mennonite Church D LuEtta Friesen OM Merle Hostetler D Weldon Friesen CC Tim Yoder F Michael Ritchie CE Wilbur Hershberger Forks Mennonite Church D Cal Kaufman LM Phil Yoder D Chris Holsopple Kauffman CC Dan Wolfer F Cindy Steiner E Chuck Owens Emma Mennonite Church Germfask Mennonite Church OM Gene Hartman OM J D Livermore, Jr CE LaMar Hochstedler CE J D Livermore, Sr CC Julie Zehr D Debbie Livermore E Larry W. Miller F Joe Livermore F Eric Hostetler Good News Community Chapel Fairhaven Mennonite Church CC Jan Esch CC Jennifer Hayes D David Esch D Barb Passwater F Helen Bezzeg E Keith Passwater Grace Chapel F Duane Yoder LM James H Nelson Faith Mennonite Church CC Renna Harness OM Deron Brill Bergstresser Grand Marais Mennonite Church OM Kay Bontrager-Singer OM Stephen Post CC Emma Hartman CC Bill Platt D Luke Mast F Jay Aeschliman D Sara Mast Hilltop Mennonite Fellowship Family Worship Center at the OM Dave Cadarette OM James Hochstetler LM Mike Wilson CE Jeremy McLaughlin E Linda Boyer Fellowship of Hope Mennonite F Nancy Behan LM Suella Lehman Gerber
E Sylvie Gudin F Jim Norton D Verlin Miller
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Holdeman Mennonite Church Liberty Christian Fellowship OM Bj Leichty OM Brian Wills OM Randy Detweiler CE Lowell Myers CC Robert Newcomer F Lowell Leinbach CE Bonita Schrock Locust Grove Mennonite Church D Vernard Guengerich OM Bill Beck F Jim Gerber CE Ross Weber F Lee Leatherman D Bill Wickey Hopewell Mennonite Church D Cheryl Mast OM Joel Short D Richard Oswald CC Dan Grass F Brian Oswald CE Tim Stoner Maple River Mennonite Church D Jim & Cathy Gingerich OM Chris Rasper D Virgil Stoltzfus CP Heidi Burkhart F Jay Bechtel CC Patricia Brubacher Howard-Miami Mennonite Church D Jacob Snider OM Ben Schlegel F Stan Kauffman OM Sarah Schlegel Marion Mennonite Church CE Craig Miller OM Char Roth CC Marjorie Bontrager OM Ron Roth D Harold Mast E Albert Stutzman F Linda Miller Mennonite Fellowship of Bloomington Hudson Lake Mennonite Church OM Kelly Carson OM Esther Lanting CC Angela Moore D Joan Griffith CE Virgil Sauder CC Amy Schrock D Andrea Martinie-Eiler CE Les Gnagey F Sue Ramseyer F Nedra Gnagey Michigan Avenue Mennonite Church Iglesia Menonita del Buen Pastor OM Scot Wilson OM David Araujo CE Troy Gundev CC Jose Tomas Vallejos F Donna Pietruck CE Rafael Barahona D Ruth Vega Morning Star Church F Samuel Ascencio OM Gladys Maina OM Simon Mungai Kalamazoo Mennonite Fellowship D Tom Hines LM Will Fitzgerald E Barbara Dunham Naubinway Christian Fellowship D CarolSue Borkholder OM Tim Miller F Janine Byler CC Bruce Gustafson D Steve Miller Kern Road Mennonite Church F DeWayne Evans OM David Sutter New Foundation United in Christ Mennonite OM Janice Yordy Sutter LM Shawn Lange CE Murray Weaver LM Tyrone Taylor D Mabel Boyajian-Migliaro D Leandrea Lange D Philipp Gollner F Tantra Taylor F Kay Reist New Hope Community Church of Midland Lake Bethel Mennonite Church OM Harold (Denny) Heath LM Mike Brudney CE Lewis Davis CE Martin Franke E Larry Yoder D Martha Brudney F Fay Vancise D Patricia Franke E June Cattell F Mary Franke
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Ninth Street Community Church Pleasant View Mennonite Church OM William Scott, Jr OM Ron Diener LM Rex Jones OM Tyler Hartford F Delores Gnagey CC Myron Miller D Lorman Heilig CE Forrest Miller D Andy Rohrer D Bruce Sellers North Goshen Mennonite Church DE Norm Maust OM Izaete Nafziger F Roger Martin OM Mark Schloneger CC Michael Yeakey Prairie Street Mennonite Church CE Bob Steury OM J Nelson Kraybill F Harlan Stoltzfus OM Frances Ringenberg LM Carolyn Hunt North Leo Mennonite Church CC Paula Killough OM Marshall Anderson CE Carolyn Smith D Angie Miller D Gerald Shenk D Randy Miller D Tracey Weirich North Main Street Mennonite Church Rexton Mennonite Church OM Ruben Chupp OM Tim Miller CC Steve Yoder CC Laurie Wyse F Bruce Slabaugh D Frances Jones Olive Mennonite Church F Kathleen Livermore OM Kevin Yoder OM Sharon Yoder Shalom Mennonite Church OM Veva Mumaw OM Dagne Assefa CC Sue Martin LM Brian Bither CC Sid Richard CC Wilma Bailey CE Ben Martin CE Carl Rhine CE Nathan Horner D Kristin Metzler-Wilson D Steve Klotz F Robert Love E Erin Richard Shore Mennonite Church Paoli Mennonite Fellowship OM Carl Horner LM Matthew Pflederer CC Duane Sharp LM Rebecca Kauffman CE Kathy Troyer CC Doris Weaver E Neal Frey CE Mary Beth Gibbons F Jeff Mowery D JoAnn Borntrager Sunnyside Mennonite Church F Jamey Sullivan OM Amy Kratzer Parkview Mennonite Church OM Melissa Fisher Fast CP Tillie Graber OM Terry Zehr CE Mary Jo Van Sickel CC Ruth Stoltzfus D Tom Andrews CE Don Jantzi D Grace Whitehead F Jim Neff F Sylvia Bontrager Talcum Mennonite Church Peace Community Mennonite Church OM Orlo Fisher F Bonita Eileen Childs CE Larry Ritchie D Theodore Myles F Dorothy Fisher Pine Grove Mennonite Church True Vine Tabernacle OM Tom Schwartz OM Nancy Rodriguez-Lora CE Harold Vogt CE Conrad Hochstetler E Eldon Christophel F Evon Castro Valparaiso Mennonite Church OM Mario Bustos CE Marv Yoder E Wilma Cender F Jay Guengerich
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Walnut Hill Mennonite Church Waterford Mennonite Church OM Dan Miller OM Cindy Voth OM Jane Stoltzfus Buller OM Lyle Miller LM Brent Siegrist OM Neil Amstutz CC Jolene VonGunten LM Gilberto Perez CE Roger zum Felde LM Velma Swartz D Glenn Slabaugh D Barbara Hodel DE Ruth Brown D Gary Chupp F Jolene VonGunten D Janet Shoemaker Wasepi Mennonite Chapel E Sheldon Swartz LM Doyle Miller F Jim Fisher LM Randy Miller Wawasee Lakeside Chapel OM Brad Cox OM Harlan Steffen CE Linda Stuckman F Ray Swartzendruber Wildwood Mennonite Church CC Jonathan Miller D Leighton Miller D Ken Hollinger D Janice Wagner F Suetta Hollinger Yellow Creek Mennonite Church OM Harold Yoder OM Jason Ramer OM Wes Bontreger CC Deanna King
CE Scott Hartman D Stan Kulp D Truman Weaver D Willie Miller
F Daryl Yoder
Congregational Coaches Elmer Wall, serves Hudson Lake; attends Silverwood James Armstrong, serves Burr Oak; attends Valparaiso James Gerber serves Naubinway, Rexton, Wildwood; attends Maple River James Troyer, serves Grand Marais; attends Cedar Grove Jane Stoltzfus Buller, serves Assembly; attends Walnut Hill Janice Yordy-Sutter, serves Walnut Hill; attends Kern Road Leonard Wiebe serves Bonneyville, East Goshen, Kern Road; attends Eighth Street Mary Lehman Yoder serves Prairie Street; attends Assembly Mike Zehr serves Holdeman, Olive; attends Belmont Neil Amstutz serves Yellow Creek; attends Waterford Regina Shands Stoltzfus serves Belmont, Belmont Flshp.; attends Assembly Ron Guengerich serves College; attends Silverwood Ron Kennel serves Benton; attends College Steve Slagel, serves North Goshen; attends East Goshen Wes Bontreger, serves Sunnyside; attends Yellow Creek
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CONFERENCE PERSONNEL 2014-2015
Missional Leadership Team Mennonite Church USA CLC representative Jane Stoltzfus Buller, moderator, Walnut Hill Shannon Dycus, First Mennonite, Indianapolis (11/2011-15 affm) (13/2013-16 appt) Gene Hartman, moderator-elect, Emma (13/2013-15 affm) Nurture representative Aimee Mayeda, secretary First, Indianapolis (10/2014-15 Mary Birkey, Howard-Miami (10/2013-16 appt) affm) George Thompson, treasurer, Waterford Youth representative (10/2013-16 affm) Derrick Ramer, First Mennonite, Middlebury (12/2015-18 Rebecca Kauffman, Paoli (11/2015-18 affm) appt)
Advisory Council Conference Staff Northern region Dan Miller, conference pastor, Walnut Hill (09/2015-18) Rex Jones, Ninth Street (15/2015-18 affm) Doug Kaufman, conference pastor for leadership Mike Wilson, Hilltop (14/2014-17 affm) transitions, Benton (09/2013-16) Greg Leatherman Sommers, conference administrator, Eastern region North Goshen (10/2013-15) Ben Hunsberger, Emma (14/2014-17 affm) Vanessa Kelleybrew, administrative assistant, IN-MI JD, Smucker, Waterford (12/2012-15 affm) (11/2011- ) Janelle Martin, bookkeeper, Benton (13/2013-15) Western region Mario Bustos, Valparaiso (09/2014-17 affm) Regional Pastors Don Rohrer, Sunnyside (15/2015-18 affm) Northern Region John Powell, Shalom (13/2013-16) Central region Tyler Hartford, Pleasant View (10/2013-16 affm) Eastern Region Velma Swartz, Waterford (15/2015-18 affm) Brent Eash, Prairie Street (southern half) (13/2013-15 affm) Southern region John Powell, Shalom, Ann Arbor (northern half) Gladys Maina, Morning Star (10/2013-16 affm) (13/2013-16 affm) Peter Janzen, First, Fort Wayne (11/2015-18 affm) Western Region African-American representative Russell Jensen, Belmont Neighborhood Fellowship, Dagne Assefa, Shalom (10/2013-16 appt) (Jan. -Jun. 2015) Central Region Amigo Centre representative David Araujo, Iglesia del Buen Pastor (14/2014-15 affm) Cliff Brubaker (2011 appt) Southern Region Bethany Christian Schools representative Mary Mininger, Menn. Flshp. of Bloomignton Jim Buller, Walnut Hill (2014 Bethany appt) (12/2012-15 affm)
Evangelism/service representative Search Team for Regional Pastors Eleanor Kreider, Prairie Street (09/2015-18 appt) Ruben Chupp, Church Life Commission rep, North Main St Dan Miller, conference pastor, IN-MI conference rep, Hispanic representative Walnut Hill Izaete Nafziger, North Goshen (09/2015-18 appt)
IN-MI Conference resource advocate
Justice/Peace representative Ross Martinie-Eiler, Menn Flsp of Bloomington (14/2014-17 appt)
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Commissions and Committees Rick Schwartz, Yellow Creek (12/2012-15 appt) Ministry Credentialing Team (MCT) Dennis Rheinheimer, First, Middlebury (09/2013-16 appt) Kevin Yoder, chair, Olive (12/2013-16 affm) Jill Wade, Zion-Archbold, OH (09/2012-15 appt) Bill Beck, Locust Grove (10/2013-16 appt) Steve Yoder, North Main Street (11/2014-17 affm) Angy Moore, Menn. Flshp. of Bloomington Sheila Troyer, Clinton Frame (09/2013-16 appt) (13/2013-15 affm) June Alliman Yoder, College (10/2014-17 appt) Bethany Christian Schools Board Marilyn Rudy-Froese, Berkey Avenue (13/2013-15 affm) Tim Lehman, head of school (July 1, 2015) Jim Buller, interim head of school, (Jan.-Jun 2015) Michigan Credentialing Subcommittee (MCT appt) Barb Smucker, Berkey Ave (08/2013-16 appt) Bill Beck, Locust Grove (10/2013-16 appt) Bob Yoder, confernce liason (14/2014-15 appt) Anna Troyer, Cedar Grove (12/2012-15 appt) Dave Hawkins, treasurer, Clinton Frame Janice Wagner, Wildwood (13/2013-16 appt) (07/2013-16 affm) Jim Alvarez, chair, Berkey Ave (09/2014-17 appt) Leadership Enhancement Team (LET) Joanna Woolace, (14/2014-15) Suella Gerber, chair, FOH (12/2012-16 affm) Marsha Busenitz King, Yellow Creek (09/2012-15 affm) Brenda Lazzaro Yoder, Emma (13/2013-16 appt) Michelle Horning, secretary, Eighth St (11/2011-14 appt) Marshall Anderson, North Leo (13/2013-16 appt) Nathan Penner, (14/2014-17) Rhonda Yoder, Sunnyside (14/2014-17 appt) Rachel Lehman Stoltzfus, Forks (07/2013-16 appt) Jeff Mumaw, Olive (11/2012-15 affm) Rex Hochstedler, (14/201-2016) Sharon Yoder, asst chair, Olive (09/2012-15 appt) Stewardship Team Cindy Steiner, East Goshen (12/2012-15 affm) Conference Historian Dirk Wolfer, Pleasant View 10/2012-15 appt) John Bender, Prairie Street (14/2014-17 appt) Rose Shetler, Waterford (14/2014-17 affm) Verlin Miller, FOH (12/2014-17 affm) MCC Great Lakes Rep George Thompson, Waterford (10/2013-16 affm) Brenda Meyer, Benton (07/2013-16 appt)
Mennonite Women (MW) Conference Program Planning Committee Shirley Bustos, president, Valparaiso (2013-2015) Cheryl Beachey, chair, North Goshen (13/2013-16 appt) Heidi McHugh, vice-president, Sunnyside (2013-2016) Beth Bontrager, College (12/2012-15 appt) Joy Detweiler, treasurer, Holdeman (2014-2017) Bill Miller, Locust Grove (11/2014-17 appt) Wendy Nice, secretary, Pleasantview (2014-2017) Greg Sommers, staff, North Goshen
MW Regional representatives: Gifts Development Team Barb Gerber, northern, Maple River (2009-2015) Randall C. Miller, chair, Walnut Hill (12/2012-15 affm) Denise Colona, eastern, Community Christian Flshp Bruce Nofziger, Benton (14/2014-17 affm) (2014-2017) Sarah Schlegel, Howard-Miami (12/2012-15 affm) Sharon Rohrer, western, Belmont (2013-2016) Tantra Taylor, New Foundation United in Christ (13/2013- Rebecca Sommers, central, College (2014-2017) 16 affm)
Conference-Owned Organizations Personnel Committee Amigo Centre Board Clare Schumm, College (09/2014-17 appt) Cliff Brubaker, exec director, (11/2011 - appt) Marge Schrag, Menn Fellowship of Bloomington Bill Miller, vice-chair, Locust Grove (11/2014-17 appt) (13/2013-16 appt) Kathy Yeakey Nofziger, North Goshen (13/2013-15 affm) Marty Lehman, chair, College (15/2015-18 appt) Kim Huffman, Clinton Frame (09/2012-15 affm) Brian Oswald, chair, Locust Grove (08/2013-16 appt) Krista Daniels, Waterford (13/2013-16 affm) Len Harms, MLT liaison, Waterford (10/2014-15 appt)
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GEOGRAPHIC LOCATIONS OF CONGREGATOINS Regions and area councils
Northern Region (13 congregations; 3 area councils) Upper Peninsula Northern MI East Central MI Cedar Grove Hilltop Bethel Germfask Maple River Grace Grand Marais Michigan Ave Naubinway New Hope Community Church of Midland Rexton Ninth Street Wildwood
Western Region (17 congregations; 3 area councils) Swa-Nee Lake Kouts Elkhart Holdeman Burr Oak Belmont Prairie Street Hudson Lake Hopewell Belmont Neighborhood Flsp Sunnyside Kern Road Valparaiso Church Without Walls True Vine Tabernacle North Main Street Fellowship of Hope Olive New Foundation United in Christ Menn Flsp Yellow Creek
Central Region (15 congregations; 2 area councils) Goshen Middlebury-Bristol Assembly Faith Bonneyville Benton Family Worship Ctr First, Middlebury Berkey Ave Iglesia del Buen Pastor Forks College North Goshen Pleasant View East Goshen Walnut Hill Waterford
Eastern Region (14 congregations; 3 area councils) Southeast MI Southwest MI LaGrange Ann Arbor Kalamazoo Emma Community Christian Liberty Lake Bethel Good News Locust Grove Marion Peace Pine Grove Shore Wasepi Wawasee Lakeside
Southern Region (12 congregations; 3 area councils) CAMFELL Kentucky/Tennessee Fort Wayne First, Indianapolis Paoli Talcum Carroll Howard-Miami Parkview Fairhaven Menn Flsp of Bloomington Shalom First, Fort Wayne Morning Star North Leo
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MISSIONAL SEEDS GIVING CLUB MEMBERS as of May 6, 2015
Kenneth & Deborah Blount Randall Miller Patricia Brubacher Roberta A Miller Timothy & Sharon Burkholder Verlin Miller Kelly Carson J Larry & Norma Jean Neff Karl J Cender James (Jim) L Neff Eldon C Christophel Roger E Neumann MD Brent Eash Esther Shaum Rachel S Fisher Wilbert & Juanita Shenk Alvin & Delores Graber Rose & Leonard Shetler Leonard Harms Mark & Vicki Smucker Gene & Cindy Hartman Jacob Snider Virgil & Margaret Hershberger Greg L Sommers Suetta Hollinger Daniel & Cindy Steiner Peter Janzen Victor & Marie Stoltzfus Nelson Kraybill Jane Stoltzfus Buller Alan & Eleanor Kreider David Sutter Wendell J Lantz The Mennonite Foundation, Inc Dean A Linsenmeyer George & Karen Thompson Nelson & Mary Martin Dirk Wolfer Walter Massanari, MD Richard & Nancy Yoder Rod & Martha Yoder Maust Pamela S Yoder D. Richard Miller Michael M Zehr Daniel Z Miller
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Chapter 2 Items for Discussion and/or Action Annual Sessions 2014 Minutes and Proceedings Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Conference June 20-21, 2014, Goshen College Campus, Goshen, Indiana Joy Detweiler, Recorder
Friday, June 20, 2014, 1:15pm sessions. Jane Stoltzfus Buller made Conference staff introductions. 1. Opening worship: Brent and Trina Siegrist (Walnut Hill) were worship leaders. Song leader 5. Delegate Action 1: Acceptance of 2013 Annual was Jane Stoltzfus Buller (Walnut Hill) along with session minutes. Motion by Tim Miller musicians from Walnut Hill. Brent and Trina led the (Rexton/Naubinway) and seconded by Ruben roll call to open the 2014 Annual sessions. Dan Chupp (North Main St.). No discussion. Minutes Miller, Conference pastor, spoke on the theme were approved. scripture I John 4:7- 6. Delegate Action 2: Gifts development team Worshipful Work 1, 2:30pm: Randy Miller (Walnut Hill) presented the people who are to be affirmed. Delegates filled out the 2. Welcome and Opening comments: Beth ballots that were in their folders. Ushers collected Bontrager (College) led in gathering songs and the ballots. opening prayer. Jane Stoltzfus Buller (Walnut Hill), moderator, convened the session with lighting of 7. Recognition of new/deceased leaders Doug the oil lamp that was given to her by Wes Kaufman led in a candle lighting ceremony in Bontreger (Yellow Creek) as he passed the remembrance of pastors/leaders who passed away moderator role to h in the past year: Don King (Clinton Frame), and Sessions. In her welcome, Jane noted how Annual Alan Leinbach (North Pointe Fellowship). New Sessions have changed over the years as stated in pastors/leaders who have joined Conference her moderator report. Jane mentioned ways of churches within the past year were recognized by communication that will be used throughout the Doug. (see pages 44-45 of the report book) sessions: 1) Table wisdom sheets that a scribe should be using; 2) Note cards on the table for 8. Jane reported that a portion of the funds from individuals to use; 3) Red, yellow & green cards to the sale of North Pointe Church building in Warsaw be used for taking a pulse. will be used for fostering new church planting efforts. 3. Personal introductions around the tables: Time was spent in conversation around the tables 8. Kevin Yoder, Ministry Credentialing Team: answering the questions: Name? Congregation? Report to the delegate body that Assembly Where have you found joy in following Jesus (either Mennonite Church and Karl Shelley (pastor) made personally or congregationally)? the decision to bless a same-sex relationship in May 2014. There was a meeting this morning 4. Greetings and staff introductions: Phil Waite, (Friday, June 20) of the Ministry Credentialing pastoral team leader (College Mennonite Church) Team to review and discuss this decision by and Gilberto Perez, senior director of intercultural Assembly. Kevin reported on this meeting and told development and educational partnerships (Goshen College) welcomed delegates to the Annual reviewed. Karl and Assembly have agreed to yield to the review. Kevin asked for the continued 15 prayers for wisdom for the process. Jane led in spending plan for 2014-15. Action was delayed prayer. until Saturday afternoon.
9. Stewardship commission report: George Thompson, conference treasurer, spoke about the Hopewell Mennonite (Kouts) for the grant that they current fiscal year (2013-2014). (See pages 29-30 received from the IN/MI Capital Fund Grant. of the report book.) Congregational giving was down (through May 2014) but individual giving, 13. Amigo Centre report: Gene Hartman, moderator missional seeds giving and other income was elect, introduced Cliff Brubaker (director) and greater than projected. He noted the fiscal year Cheryl Mast (outdoor coordinator) from Amigo runs from July 1 to June 30. They are projecting Centre for their annual report. Cliff reported on the that by the end of the fiscal year the ending St. Joe week which gives the gift of camp to local balance will be $17,643 in the red. children who often come from broken situations. Cliff requested that churches remember St. Joe 10. Advancement Update and presentation of week in their prayers next week as it is a difficult 2014-15 Spending plan: Brad Sommer introduced week. Cheryl shared three short stories of work the offering of a free web seminar that will help with boys (from Goshen Middle school) through the churches provide for congregational needs E3 (Engaging, Empowering, Equipping) program. (information will be on the Conference website). Each of the boys will have mentors who will walk The 2014-15 Spending plan is essentially the same with them through three years of Jr. High. It was that was presented at the regional delegate emphasized how important this program can be in meetings. It is a balanced plan because of major the life of a young boy who comes from a cuts in committee support and office maintenance. disadvantaged background. Recent changes may affect staff income levels, but their precise impact is yet to be seen. The MLT 14. Gene Hartman introduced the delegate travel made the decision that staff will not be cut within pool offering. A question was raised by a delegate: the next year. Brad mentioned that the stewardship Was it by design or was it a slip up to not offer team has been frugal in working on the spending local lodging for those who traveled from a plan. A time was given for questions for the distance? Dan Miller answered the question and stewardship team. noted the complexity of making those arrangements. Peter Janzen (First Mennonite, Fort Wayne) how much will the conference save by 15. Affinity Groups as part of conference structure. not paying travel expenses for committee PLANT Network: An affinity group exists for church meetings? $5000.00 is what they are leaders interested in new church development. proposing they will save which is half of Contact the office for more information. Also, several local churches (East Goshen, College Mennonite, Eighth Street, North Goshen Mennonite Aimee Mayeda (First Mennonite, and Waterford) have been working with Mennonite Indianapolis) if there is a deficit this Disaster Service to rebuild a parsonage and church year, what is the plan for covering that building in New Orleans for Faith Temple deficit? There are cash reserves that will congregation. The original buildings were be drawn from. 69% of the budget goes destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. Jane gave a to staffing expenses. blessing to Gladier Dalton from Faith Temple in New Orleans. The moderator invited the delegates to indicate by colored cards their responses to the proposed 16
16. Delegate Action 3: Acceptance of withdrawal of looking for another conference where the Clinton Frame Mennonite Church from IN-MI focus is more on mission. Conference. The motion was presented to the delegate body: Richard Yoder (Berkey Ave) Are there other congregations within the conference Motion: Based on the recommendation of the who are thinking of making this same Ministry Credentialing Team and the Missional break or have similar convictions about Leadership Team, we accept with sorrow the conference? decision of Clinton Frame Mennonite Church to congregations with similar convictions withdraw membership from IN-MI Mennonite which are noted by the signing of the Conference and release them with our blessing. We transformation letter that was circulated intend to continue to relate to this sister earlier this year. Dan has not had congregation, and are hopeful about their intention conversations with any other to affiliate with another Mennonite Church USA congregations who are considering area conference, remaining in a denominational leaving. relationship with us. Will Fitzgerald (Kalamazoo) Curious if Dan Miller introduced the motion and recognized the sadness and sorrow that this withdrawal brings on the table? Can delegates vote no? to the Conference body. He made the correlation Answer: The way that the conference is to two siblings that now live in two different organized, when a congregation wants to houses. A clay pot has been set in the corner of the become a member, there must be delegate delegate room for messages of action. So when a congregation wants to appreciation/farewell to be given to Clinton Frame. become disaffiliated with conference, A time was given for questions. there must be delegate action.
Phil Waite (CMC) Interested in process. Beth Bontrager (College) Does a Is there a precedent for congregations congregation need to be released from one moving from one conference to go to conference before it can be affiliated with another? Will more conversation need to another? Nancy Kauffmann answered that IN-MI Mennonite Conference will hold the is a document that MC USA has in place congregation and credentials up to a year to see if the congregation moves forward to join another conference. After a year, (North Goshen) This has been a matter of prayer for their congregation since last fall and the question was raised this past Harold Bauman (College) In past years nton Frame leave when congregations left, the delegates our conference and join another heard from not only the conference leadership but also from congregational Dan answered in two pieces (he gave leadership. Is there someone here to speak caution about standing and judging from the congregation?
are a wide variety of beliefs within the Terry Diener (Clinton Frame) Took the conference churches; Clinton Frame is time to speak to the decision that Clinton Frame congregation has made to leave IN- MI Mennonite Conference. He said the 17
question that has been raised about of three Journey graduates: Claudia Granados leaving one conference to join another (College), Renna Harness (Ninth Street) and Mike conference is the main question people Wilson (Hilltop). Julia Gingrich (Prairie Street) from the church have been asking their leadership team. The answer to that question will depend on how MC USA the worship time. There was an ice cream social moves in the next few months/year. This after worship served by North Goshen Mennonite decision came about because of the youth. congregational identity concerning who they are associated with. Saturday, June 21, 2014, 8:45am Worshipful Work, session #2 colored cards asking the question: are you ready to 18. Opening singing and prayer led by Beth act on this motion? It was a mixed response with Bontrager. many yellow and a few red cards shown. Question 19. Jane greeted the delegates and introduced the was raised about moving forward with the number of red cards. Tim Burkholder, one of the red card Schloneger (North Goshen) is chair. In his holders, felt that some table conversation might introduction, he stated with passion that he is NOT help before the motion is approved. Rhonda Yoder afraid of the future of the church but he is excited used a red card because it feels like Clinton Frame about the future! Even the future of Mennonite Church! We need to be reminded of where we been as vocal as other parts of conference. Another place our hope in Jesus Christ. He envisions a delegate felt it was a rushed decision. MLT and three step process: 1) look at & examine all the leadership has been working on the fact that the conference body is a diverse body and the Unity & Variance group will be addressing this in their are not of one mind on many issues and dialogue is future work. Jane suggested that an action be helpful. How in the midst of differences will we made in the third delegate session. Harold Bauman testify to our faith in Jesus? There is work and (College) addressed the fact that conference is challenges ahead but we need not be afraid for the reviewing credentials of Assembly and that there future of the church. Other members of the U & V are other conferences and denominational leaders. Task Group are Will Fitzgerald (Kalamazoo), He feels that rushing into decisions feels like a Jennifer Hayes (Fairhaven), Mandy Yoder (Belmont) cultural push and that we rush too many important and Joe Liechty (Berkey Ave.). Colossian Forum decisions. His concern is that we are not giving Mark introduced two men (Michael Gulker and Rob enough time for the various groups to follow Barrett) involved with this group which is another through with their work and that we want to make way that God has been at work. Mark shared how decisions without waiting. His word of advice is to the Unity and Variance Task Group can help the have patience. church gather around difficult issues to bring Friday, June 20, 2014, 7:00pm greater clarity to our unity. We need to ask foundational questions: What is our level of 17. Worship: Music led by the Benton Mennonite commitment to each other? What do we hold in congregation. Neil Amstutz (Waterford) served as common? Why this? Why are we together as congregations of IN-MI Mennonite Conference? Mark has been anxious about this gathering this Gingrich and Aaron Lehman. There was recognition morning. Part of him wants to give delegates a 18 detailed plan so that they will feel that the time 23. The MLT presented the motion from Worshipful together has been worthwhile. All of the Work session 1. Jane called for discussion on the discussions must be framed as worship true Clinton Frame motion. worship is done not to receive something in return, not because we want to be strengthened or Harold Bauman (former delegate from entertained; worship happens when we realize we College) suggested a motion concerning are in the presence of the living God. the Clinton Frame withdrawal. There was discussion about whether or not this is a valid amendment - Cal Kauffman (moved) in a call to worship and John Hofstetter (second) that we and prayers of confession. He spoke of the should move to pass as an amendment what is happening within our conference with denominational position that marriage consists of one man and one woman with um) a public covenant; that with much gave a meditation based on I John 4:7-12. Time patience and prayer we await the was given for table discussion around the completion of the current process questions: As a part of Indiana-Michigan involving congregations and conferences Mennonite Conference, are you committed to and the MC USA general board; and that testifying to Jesus as Lord over our conflicts and we encourage Clinton Frame to delay the differences? What gives you pause about living into implementation of their decision until the such a commitment? As individuals and current processes are completed. There congregations, what common values and goals do was much discussion from the delegates we share that would allow us to continue our before a vote was taken for the commitment to encourage each other and to amendment. By showing of the colored joyfully follow Jesus together? cards, the amendment was defeated.
Worshipful Work Session #3, 3:15pm Jane called for the affirmation of the original motion. The motion passed. This was followed by a time of silence and prayer.
23. Report on the Gifts Development team slate 21. Dan Miller introduced members of the Mara affirmation and presentation: Randy Miller (Walnut Christian Church from Indianapolis. Kevin Yoder Hill) reported that the persons presented by the (Olive, Ministry Credentialing Team) presented their GDT were strongly affirmed. Randy named the request to join Indiana-Michigan Mennonite persons who are finishing a term with a conference Conference to the delegates. Brian Bither (Shalom) appointment and those who are beginning has been relating to the church and offered a appointments. He blessed those serving on prayer for the Mara Church. Dan challenged the conference committees with a prayer. delegate body to find ways to relate to this church over the next year. Next year at Annual Sessions 24. Bethany Christian School Report: Allen Dueck, they will be affirmed as an affiliate. outgoing principal, presented the annual report on BCS. He spoke about Bright Time camps that are 22. Delegate Action 5: 2014-15 spending plan vote. offered in early June. There is a technology Bill Scott moved, Will Fitzgerald seconded. Voting initiative on digital literacy and sustainability. was done by ballot. The delegates passed the Much work is happening on the building: installing spending plan by 97.5%. 19 a new roof and a new geo-thermal well system; 27. Jane introduced an experiment with table along with more efficient lighting and solar panels, discussion in thinking about MLT and how they this will save BCS thousands of dollars. They are have been working on various issues, she asked the trying to be more intentional about teaching the tables to answer the question: As a table group, students the reasons we serve and how service what wisdom to you offer conference leadership for enriches our lives. The new Principal will be Hank the 2014-15 year? Each table was asked to Willems which is the position vacated by the assistant principal. As of July 1, new titles are in offer leadership teams. Time was given for tables place: Assistant principal will be Principal and the to talk together. When microphones were opened Lead Administrator will be Head of School. There is for sharing of wisdom, there were very good ideas a search committee in place to find a new Head of shared from the tables. There was strong School. Bethany is blessed with a strong faculty affirmation for the MLT and their work; and a and capable and balanced administrative team as challenge to the delegates to keep seeking God well as a great school board. Allen thanked the and what Conference is being called to. The delegate body for the prayers, personal written pieces of wisdom were gathered by ushers encouragement and the many ways that churches and will be posted on the Conference website. support Bethany as he has experienced through the years. 28. Resolution of thanks: Jane Stoltzfus Buller presented a resolution of thanks on behalf of the 25. Dan Miller introduced two more groups that are Conference Program Planning Committee. seeking involvement with IN-MI Mennonite What a blessing this gathering has been. In Conference. The first is the Goshen House church addition to the people you have seen up front, led by Cal Kauffman (East Goshen). The second is there are quite a number of people working on this Ruben Santos (Restauración) and he was gathering since last fall up to and through this introduced by Gilberto Perez and Nelson Kraybill. weekend. A huge thank you to all who have played a part in hosting these annual sessions! Prairie Street MC and Restauración are working on ways that the two congregations can continue to College Mennonite has been a generous and learn from each other. gracious host. Thanks to Jean, Jessica, and College Mennonite kitchen staff, and to the Goshen College 26. Dan Miller presented an update about the John cafeteria staff. We appreciate the care and Howard Yoder discernment process. Previously attention you gave to providing for the wonderful sealed documents that were held by IN-MI and healthy meals good food and wonderful Mennonite Conference were opened and read service! Our gratitude also goes to Cynthia Good Kaufmann and Tia Johnson from the Goshen reports from a psychologist, correspondence; and College Events office for their many hours of notes from the disciplinary committee. The group support and coordination. We also acknowledge recommended redacting names and identifying the contributions of the hands-on media staff, information of women and releasing all the Prashanda Dickson and Joel Jimenez. If you heard documents; with one caveat of getting legal review a speaker, saw a presentation, or spoke into a on the psychological reports. On June 7, MLT microphone, you know the importance of their accepted the recommendations. Copies of the contribution. documents have been given to the historian. Volunteers make this gathering possible. They are Conference staff will continue to bring updates on everywhere you look, and man the process to the delegate body. Dan invited Health Workers- Cheryl Blaum, Lorna delegates to speak after the session with either him Classen or Sara Wenger Shenk about the update. A-V Coordination - Brooke Rothshank
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Childcare Providers - Hannah Snyder, Troy in their days to saturate these annual Risser, Donna Risser, Luke and Sara Mast, sessions in prayer; Joanna Epp, Seth Krabill We appreciate Waterford, North Goshen, Recording Secretary Joy Detweiler East Goshen, and the College Mennonite Conference Resource Advocate (vacant) congregations for welcoming, worshiping Annual Sessions Parliamentarian John with, and feeding delegates for tomorrow Buschert morning; Worship Leaders Brent Siegrist, Trina Thanks to conference staff members Siegrist, Neil Amstutz, Phil Waite Vanessa, Janelle, Rachel, Doug, Dan, Song Leaders - Jane Stoltzfus Buller, Lyn Brent, Gilberto, John, the other Jon, and Buschert, Lee Dengler Mary the hard-working people who put Musicians - Linda Lehman Thomas, Lyn in many hours of work preparing for, Buschert, John Buschert, Grant Martin, praying for, and hosting this event. Dave Hartzler, Eddie Martin Worship Visuals Jo-Ann Brant With gratitude from the Conference Program Planning Committee, thank you! Ushers - Jeff Kauffman, Wilbur
Hershberger, Ken Mullet, Sheril Mullet, Therefore, be it resolved that we, the delegates of José Ortíz, Missy Kauffman, John Schrock, the Indiana Michigan Mennonite Conference, Dick Yoder, Nancy Yoder, Darrel Hostetler, express our gratitude for the planners, volunteers, Marian Hostetler, Merv Helmuth, Tessie and leaders of the 2014 Annual Sessions. Molina, Wilhelm Molina
Communion Servers - Cindy Voth, David 29. Safwat Marzouk, associate professor of Old Araujo, Gene Hartman, John Powell, Julia Testament at AMBS, spoke on obstacles that make Gingrich, Kay Bontrager-Singer, Mary us stumble as we strive to love one another and Mininger, Marty Lehman, Dan Miller, Dawn Yoder Harms, Gilberto Perez, Lydia Christ can help us on our journey as we deal with Nofziger, Jane Stoltzfus Buller, Mary these obstacles. Mininger, Mike Yordy, Safwat Marzouk Gluten-free communion bread - James 30. For Sunday morning, four congregations invited Nelson Gingrich delegates to worship with them: College, East Thanks to the conference prayer team Goshen, North Goshen and Waterford. Joy Detweiler, Grace Whitehead, Cindy Voth, and Harold Mast, who set aside time
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Gifts Development Team Report Randy Miller, Chair
The Gifts Team started the year in September at the all leaders retreat at Amigo with the members who were present. We have since had monthly conference calls starting in October. Time between meetings was devoted to contacting those who are identified for certain positions. We are again grateful for the ten people (four men, six women) who have renewed commitments for another term and the eight (three men, five women) who were willing to accept new appointments. A number of positions are still in process at report time.
I am especially grateful to the members of the GDT who have capably served this past year: Bruce Nofziger, Sarah Schlegel, Tantra Taylor, and Dan Miller, lead conference minister. Because there are limits to our knowledge of whom across the conference is gifted for which tasks, we rely on a database that has been built from the gifts inventory forms on your tables. In 2014 only one of these forms was returned at the conference sessions. We would be delighted to expand our knowledge base with your help in identifying persons having gifts appropriate for the assignments. Thank you.
FOR APPOINTMENT BY THE MISSIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM Advisory Council Eleanor Kreider, Evangelism/service rep., Prairie Street Mennonite, Elkhart, IN (09/2015- 2018; appointed) Current Occupation: Retired Congregation/Conference/Churchwide experience: England; Advisory Council - IN MI Conf; worship and nurture - local congregation; leader in JOURNEY program; writer; speaker Family: Husband, Alan Kreider; son, Andrew Kreider Interests or Hobbies: Music; reading Share your most joyful time in your Christian walk with the Lord: I love to lead worship at JOURNEY weekends - with Scripture, informal testimony and song, especially because of the multi-cultural setting. This prefigures worship "around the throne of God and of the Lamb",as John anticipates in Revelation 21 and 22.
Izaete Nafziger, Hispanic rep., North Goshen Mennonite, Goshen, IN (09/2015-2018; appointed) Current Occupation: Associate Pastor (part time position) Congregational/conference/churchwide experience: Advisory Council, Indiana/Michigan Conference Family: Husband,Tim Nafziger; son, Natan 16 years old and daughter, Alaiza 14 years old Interests/Hobbies: I like to visit people, cook Brazilian food, and do interpretative worship dance. Share your most joyful time in your Christian walk with the Lord: After I was baptized, I attended a discipleship class for 12 days; at the end, the pastor sent us out 2 by 2 to proclaim the good news of Jesus. On that day, I was sure that, with joy in my heart, I wanted to tell people around me what our Lord has done in my life.
22 Derrick Ramer, youth rep., First Mennonite, Middlebury, Middlebury, IN (12/2015-2018; appointed) Current Occupation: Pastor Congregational/conference/churchwide experience: Derrick is in his 12th year of pastoral ministry Family: Married to Michelle and have two sons, Dominic and Zeke Interests/Hobbies: I enjoy athletics, whether participating or spectating and riding my motorcycle. Share your most joyful time in your Christian walk with the Lord: Walking with others as they grow in their faith brings me much joy. I love when I can actually see light bulbs going on for people as they gain a better understanding of faith and walking with Jesus.
LEADERSHIP ENHANCEMENT TEAM Alan Kreider, Prairie Street Mennonite, Elkhart, IN Current Occupation: Retired Congregational/conference/churchwide experience: missionary in England; teacher at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary; Sunday school teacher Family: Married to Eleanor Kreider; son Andrew Kreider Interests/Hobbies: walking, reading, playing ping pong, listening to music, eating Brief statement (please keep to 1-2 sentences). Share your most joyful time in your Christian walk with the Lord: Praying every morning with Eleanor and on Friday with our inner-city neighborhood group - The Little Company of Jesus; also participating in communion with sisters and brothers at Prairie Street, which happens too infrequently!
PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Marty Lehman, College Mennonite, Goshen, IN (15/2015-2018; appointed) Current Occupation: Administrative Pastor Congregational/conference/churchwide experience: Associate Executive Director, Mennonite Church USA, Executive Board (2004-2014); CEO, Adriel Inc., (2002-2004); Mennonite Board of Missions/Mennonite Mission Netword (1998-2002); Goshen College (1987-1998) Family: Married to Rex Hooley Interests/Hobbies: enjoy reading, gardening, cooking, quilting Share your most joyful time in your Christian walk with the Lord: One of my joys has been working in many Mennonite Church USA organizations where I have been able to learn from many others.
23 DELEGATE AFFIRMATION ADVISORY COUNCIL Peter Janzen, southern region rep, First Mennonite, Ft. Wayne, IN (11/2015-2018; affirm by southern region delegates) Current Occupation: Pastor at First Mennonite Church, Fort Wayne, IN/Staff Chaplain at St. Joseph Hospital, Fort Wayne, IN Congregational/conference/churchwide experience: MDiv (1991) AMBS, Level II Clinical Pastoral Education, Ordained for Institutional Ministry (MCEC) and Ordained for Ministry, MCUSA and IN-MI Mennonite Conference Family: Wife: Jennifer; Daughter: Katharina Interests/Hobbies: Reading Science Fiction novels and biographies Share your most joyful time in your Christian walk with the Lord: After waiting 36 hours, my wife Jennifer said "Yes!" to marrying me! I think I bounced into the air higher than I ever had before or since!
GIFTS DEVELOPMENT TEAM
Randall C. Miller, Walnut Hill, Elkhart, IN (11/2015-2018 affirm by delegates)
LEADERSHIP ENHANCEMENT TEAM
Jeff Mumaw, Olive Mennonite, Elkhart, IN, chair (11/2015-2018 affirm by delegates) Current Occupation: Congregational/conference/churchwide experience: I have served as a pastor, teacher and trainer in a variety of settings. Family: Joseph. Interests/Hobbies: I enjoy soccer, working in the garden, traveling, reading and spending time with my family.
MINISTRY CREDENTIALING TEAM Angy Moore, Mennonite Fellowship of Bloomington, Bloomington, IN (13/2015-2018) Current Occupation: Law Student Congregational/conference/churchwide experience: Former Intermenno Trainee, Chair-Elect of Mennonite Fellowship of Bloomington, member of the IN-MI Conference Ministry Credentialing Team Family: I have a wonderful extended family, but I don't have any family that lives with me Interests/Hobbies: Music, reading, cooking, and British television
24 Marilyn Rudy-Froese, Berkey Avenue, Goshen, IN (13/2015-2018) Current Occupation: Pastor Congregational/conference/churchwide experience: I have been a chaplain in a long-term care facility, been a pastor in 2 congregations, chaired the Leadership Council for Mennonite Church Eastern Canada, am on the AMBS Pastors Week Planning Committee, and am a coach for Mennonite Church Canada's Transition into Ministry online program. Family: married to Allan Rudy-Froese and mother to Ben, Jacob and Abby Interests/Hobbies: reading, quilting, gardening and drinking tea with friends. Share your most joyful time in your Christian walk with the Lord: The times when I am able to walk with someone as they discover how God is calling them and when I am invited into someone else's life--these are sacred times and fill me with joy that my path in following Jesus is one in which I am privileged to walk alongside others.
MISSIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM Rebecca Kauffman, Paoli Mennonite Fellowship, Paoli, IN 15/2015-2018; affirm by delegates) Current Occupation: Co-pastor of Paoli Mennonite Congregational/conference/churchwide experience: In churches I attended prior to becoming a pastor, I served on leadership team, as worship leader, song leader, and adult SS teacher. As a young adult I volunteered with Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) in New York City as an intern at the MCC United Nations liaison office, and later served on the board of MCC Alberta. Family: Husband, Andrew Blount Interests/Hobbies: Hiking and exploring the natural beauty of southern Indiana; gardening and preserving; singing; keeping in touch with family and friends. Brief statement (please keep to 1-2 sentences). Share your most joyful time in your Christian walk with the Lord: A joyful, life-giving time in my Christian walk was when I was part of a young adult group that supported one another by praying, eating, playing, studying and talking together. Listening to and creating music with others continues to inspire and bring joy to my faith walk.
STEWARDSHIP TEAM Cindy Steiner, East Goshen, Goshen, IN 46765 (12/2015-2018; affirm by delegates) Current Occupation: Most recently employed as office manager at New Horizons Aviation, Inc. Congregational/conference/churchwide experience: Served as a Sunday school teacher, treasurer, MYF sponsor, elder, and currently serve as Finance Commission chair and advocate for Everence at East Goshen. Family: Married to Dan Steiner and we have two sons and daughters-in-law, and two adorable grandchildren Share your most joyful time in your Christian walk with the Lord. My recent most joyful time was when my father passed away several years ago. Yes, there was much sadness, but through salvation we have the promise of everlasting life with Jesus! I was filled with comfort and joy by holding on to this promise that my father professed throughout his life.
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Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Conference 2015-2016 Spending Plan
A 12% tithe of congregational contributions to CONFERENCE conference goes to support denominational FIRSTFRUITS TO work. Calculations do not include other 11.2% MC USA income, which is why our tithe is a lower percentage of the spending plan.
MISSIONAL Leadership Training LEADERSHIP Ministry Inquiry Program .7% DEVELOPMENT Seminary Student Assistance
Ministry Staff Resources to Congregations: EMPOWERING Professional staff MISSIONAL Conference Pastor 44.7% Conference Pastor for Leadership Transitions LEADERS Regional Pastors Networking expenses
MISSIONAL COMMUNITY Mutual Aid - Corinthian Plan 2.3% The Corinthian Plan EXTENSION Publications, incl. contracted editor/writers COMMUNITY- Pastor/Congregation in Crisis BUILDING Pastoral Family Assistance Program 8.6% RESOURCES Resource Library Youth Resources
Board and committee expenses: NURTURING AND Missional Leadership Team Advisory Council SUPPORTING 3.1% Ministry Credentialing Team THE VISION Leadership Enhancement Team General Assembly Del. Travel (1/2 of alt. yr.)
SUPPORTING Office staff 17.9% LEADERSHIP Benefits for all employees EMPOWERMENT
CARE OF Retired Ministers Medicare Supp. FORMER 1.2% Retired Ministers Supplement LEADERS
MINISTRY Rent LOGISTICAL Utilities 10.3% SUPPORT Office supplies
26 Proposed 2015-2016 Spending Plan Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Conference 2014-2015 2014-2015 Proposed $ Change from Spending Actual % Change 2015-2016 2014-15 Plan (Through 2/28) INCOME CONGREGATIONAL SUPPORT FOR CONFERENCE $ 446,450 $ 259,064 $ 346,450 $ (100,000) -22.4% INDIVIDUAL GIFTS AND OTHER EXPECTED INCOME $ 24,150 $ 17,899 $ 29,750 $ 5,600 23.2% TOTAL EXPECTED INCOME $ 470,600 $ 276,963 $ 376,200 $ (94,400) -20.1% EXPENSE CONFERENCE FIRSTFRUITS TO MCUSA $ 53,577 $ 31,418 $ 41,577 $ (12,000) -22.4% MISSIONAL LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT $ 2,500 $ 200 $ 2,600 $ 100 4.0% EMPOWERING MISSIONAL LEADERS $ 222,487 $ 146,234 $ 165,744 $ (56,743) -25.5% MISSIONAL COMMUNITY EXTENSION $ 14,500 $ 9,970 $ 8,612 $ (5,888) -40.6% COMMUNITY-BUILDING RESOURCES $ 22,725 $ 10,264 $ 31,700 $ 8,975 39.5% NURTURING AND SUPPORTING THE VISION $ 7,150 $ 4,742 $ 11,500 $ 4,350 60.8% SUPPORTING LEADERSHIP EMPOWERMENT $ 99,702 $ 58,746 $ 66,231 $ (33,471) -33.6% CARE OF FORMER LEADERS $ 12,000 $ 2,224 $ 4,500 $ (7,500) -62.5% MINISTRY LOGISTICAL SUPPORT $ 35,850 $ 20,302 $ 38,000 $ 2,150 6.0% TOTAL EXPECTED EXPENSE $ 470,491 $ 284,100 $ 370,464 $ (102,177) -21.7% BALANCE $ 109 $ (7,137) $ 5,736
Notes: This draft spending plan implements the previously announced MLT decision to reduce expenses by $100,000. This has been an educated guess about how changes in congregational affiliation might impact income. Conference leadership continues to monitor income and expenses.
2015-2016 Spending Plan Allocations MINISTRY LOGISTICAL SUPPORT 10.3% CONFERENCE FIRSTFRUITS TO MCUSA CARE OF FORMER LEADERS 11.2% 1.2% MISSIONAL LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT .7% SUPPORTING LEADERSHIP EMPOWERMENT 17.9%
EMPOWERING MISSIONAL LEADERS 44.7%
NURTURING AND SUPPORTING THE VISION 3.1%
COMMUNITY-BUILDING RESOURCES 8.6%
MISSIONAL COMMUNITY EXTENSION 2.3%
27 Chapter 3 Missional Leadership Team and Staff
2014-2015 submitted by Jane Stoltzfus-Buller, moderator
After two years of serving as Moderator-elect and now two as Moderator, it is with a real sense of humility I write this report. What might one say after four years of many meetings, many decisions- some difficult and some obvious, many relationships-both new and old with faithful people over our geographic area and many ? I offer two observations.
First, I note that over the years, the consistent theological and ecclesiological diversity represented around the tables that I have had the privilege to sit with in our conference circles are truly representative of who we are as a conference of congregations. Our leadership teams regularly find their discussions and decisions grow out of vigorous and fruitful difference. It would seem to many, as I listen around our conference that the expectation of how God works is to bring us all to the same understandings and to the one possible way. As I sit with our t mong us in our diverse views. This is both a gift and a challenge as we seek just and peaceful ways forward. I wonder: Is this the Holy Spirit of God behind this diversity? If so, what is being invited for the people of God as we seek to be faithful communities of those who follow Jesus and become the growing Kingdom of God in the midst of a broken world?
Secondly, in the four years of serving on the Missional Leadership Team, I note how the Holy Spirit guides and leads us to the work needed to be done. Sensitivity to what we are hearing and seeing amidst our congregations has led us gently at times, intensely at others, to particular work each of served. low a chosen path to the next. The work of the Unity and Variance Process came out of our need to understand the diversity referred to in the first paragraph. This process continues under the guidance of the Task Group with Mark Schloneger the chair. The review of our structure and how it serves us took much of our time last year. We recognized the way our conference structure evolved and evolves and wanted to listen and respond to what the Holy Spirit is saying to us for the present time. The review, and I would include the review of Da as Conference Pastor, became an important resource for our work this year as we were led to make difficult choices to simplify our staffing structure and our budget. Although this was a difficult decision and included some tough staffing decisions, which we are aware will change how we are conference together, we are grateful for a sense that through it all the Holy Spirit has been present and has been leading us.
Missional Leadership Team Summary Report 2014-2015
Administrative Team Report 2014-2015 by Dan Miller, conference pastor
There are many good things happening in congregations across conference. While we cannot take credit for ivity. This is the environment we want to nurture as we joyfully follow Jesus and cultivate a missional imagination in every congregation.
Much work is taken with the normal activities of keeping an organization going, responding to inquires and anticipating useful resources. Both emotion and time were taken with the realignment of congregations, as some congregational processes took congregations into variance regarding affirming same-sex relationships;
28 and other congregations contemplated withdrawal to distance themselves from that affirming stance. We are trying to engage a broader range of conference leadership with congregations rather than after decisions are made.
In an effort to address anticipated changes in affiliation, Missional Leadership Team set priorities for staffing and led the way in staffing changes. They set three priorities for staffing: credentialing, connecting and celebrating. Conference Administrator, Communications Coordinator and three Regional Pastor positions are being discontinued. When the changes take place, Administrative Team will cease to exist, and there will be more emphasis on the overall staff team. We hope to utilize several weekly volunteers to help with front office duties so Vanessa can give time to other projects. We are anticipating changes in responsibilities and are beginning to shift so we work through glitches while Greg is around. Communication, advancement/finances, Annual Sessions planning and area council connections across northern Indiana are among the main adjustments.
Delegate meetings, for example, had limited staff present. While the decision had been made last year to have only two meetings in 2015, it looks doubtful we will return to five regional meetings.
Administrative Team kept IN-MI constructively engaged in the John Howard Yoder discernment process. Dan historical research. The Missional Leadership Team has approved giving $10,000 to the victim fund being set up.
Regional Pastors have actively engaged congregations, bringing support and challenge. Staff retreat increased the connection between office and regional staff and it is especially bitter to change a team that is still growing in strength and cooperation.
Connections beyond conference are also beneficial: mid-states leadership and retreats, Constituency Leaders Council, Exponential, Conference Ministers meetings, calls with conference finance people, connections with conferences relating to Chin congregations.
Staff will continue to lead toward the vision affirmed by delegates and the goals set by Missional Leadership Team. This time offers us the opportunity to re- ways of even the last five years. We want to lead in ways that honor Jesus and help us engage the world God loves. Feel free to continue calling the conference office for assistance. We may need to point you more often in directions to do your own research or contacts. That will be difficult, but we are in a different time and the Spirit of God will lead us as we find our way.
Conference Staff Report by Greg Leatherman Sommers, conference administrator
Staff transitions: This past year has been one of relatively high staff turnover and major staffing-related decisions:
Interim regional pastor (and former conference moderator) Brent Eash is treated for cancer. Marcella Hershberger joined staff as interim conference administrator July 28, 2014. Gilberto Perez ended as interim regional pastor for the central region July 30, 2014. David Araujo joined staff as the regional pastor for the central region August 1, 2014. Greg Sommers started his sabbatical August 8, 2014. Rachel Denlinger ended as communications coordinator August 15, 2014. 29
Jon Brown left his position as regional pastor for the western region August 31, 2014. Chris Rahe started as interim communications coordinator September 4, 2014. MLT decides to cut $100,000 from spending plan for 2015-2016 at leadership retreat September 5. Greg Sommers returned from sabbatical November 8, 2014. Most staff persons learn of plans to cut $100,000 from spending plan at November 10, 2015 retreat. MLT decides, at their November 15, 2014 meeting, to reduce ministry staff from 2.5 to 2.0 full time equivalents (FTE), and support staff from 2.5 to 1.0 FTE. MLT forms a team of three (conference pastor, MLT member, and stewardship chair) to develop a staffing plan, which includes soliciting feedback from current staff. Team of three meets with staff November 18, 2014 with updates from MLT meeting. The team asks for individual employees to prepare staffing suggestions by December 9, when the team plans to meet with individual staff persons. Marcella Hershberger ended as interim conference administrator November 24, 2014. Chris Rahe ended as interim communications coordinator December 15, 2014. Greg Sommers takes on these additional duties while waiting for reconfiguration decisions. Russell Jensen joined staff as the interim regional pastor for the western region January 1, 2015. MLT representatives meet with staff January 20, 2015 to announce positions will be eliminated at the end of June: regional pastor positions for eastern, western, and central regions; communications coordinator and conference administrator. Staff works together to plan and prepare for these changes. o Given the difficulty and inefficiency of hiring for a position that only has 6 months left, Greg continues to cover most communications tasks. Conference subcontracts with Laurie Oswald Robinson to provide editorial and writing services for Gospel Evangel. o Spend time developing a list of tasks that will have to be dropped in light of decreased staffing. o Focus on documenting and training to tasks that will be shifted to remaining staff.
Special Project: John Howard Yoder
The conference administrator spent a lot of time conducting research, checking with stakeholders, consulting an attorney, compiling documents, and coordinating teams to review and redact sealed records for the historian appointed by MC USA to document AMBS, conference, and Mennonite Church responses to allegations of abuse by John Howard Yoder. Archive staff persons Colleen McFarland and Tillie Yoder were of great help in this process. Historian R Mennonite Quarterly Review.
Planning retreats
Conference staff met at College Mennonite Church for a semi-annual all-staff retreat on May 19, 2014. We reviewed our purpose, received updates from MLT representatives, discussed current projects, and set goals for the 2014-15 year. The office staff gathered at Berkey Avenue for a planning retreat October 14, 2014. Discussions about the coming year included staffing, congregational connections, and a revised communication strategy. The office and regional staff participated in a semi-annual planning retreat at Amigo Centre on November 10, 2014. MLT moderator Jane Stoltzfus Buller joined the retreat in the afternoon to ask how current positions connect to congregations, discuss the spending plan reduction, and how conference can support congregations with fewer resources. Then Chris led a discussion of how to revamp communications. Staff planned to build on work done by the stewardship team and advancement process, developing concise talking points that the MLT and others can take to churches Sunday mornings.
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Publications
Conference added Facebook and Twitter accounts to augment the website as our presence on the internet. The Gospel Evangel was published six times over the past year. Issues included articles highlighting Annual Sessions and other delegate activities, local ministry projects, resources for congregations, and regular reports from the Missional Leadership Team. Our electronic newsletter, weLink, was published monthly. Interim communications coordinator Chris Rahe set it up to publish automatically from content posted to the conference website designated for the weLink. The Events and Announcements email newsletter containing news from outside the conference has been discontinued. Items that would have been in Events and Announcements are now on the conference website.
Technology
Conference hosted a special web seminar on financial development for congregations in July. We invited senior/lead pastors, treasurers and finance team members, board members, business persons, congregational chairs, and youth pastors from all of our member congregations to join in one of two sessions. Participants received resource and presentation materials prior to the event. Rich Gerig from Advancement Associates and Brad Miller from Everence were co-presenters. They responded to questions submitted email or via the teleconference website, and answered them at the end of the training. Video for both sessions is available on the conference YouTube channel.
The central computer server was running an operating system from 2003, which would go out of service later in 2015. Once we determined that the existing server hardware would not have adequate resources to run a newer operating system, staff solicited estimates and awarded a contract for a new server. Staff also successfully applied to the Tech Soup program, which provides software to nonprofits at a greatly reduced price.
Chapter 4 Committees/Teams
Advisory Council 2014-2015 by Gene Hartman, Moderator-elect, chair
The Advisory Council met twice this past year. Both meetings were a Friday evening to Saturday afternoon retreat held at Amigo Centre in Sturgis, Michigan.
The September meeting was a joint meeting with the other IN-MI Mennonite Conference leadership teams. At this joint meeting the Advisory Council met as a group for a couple of hours Saturday afternoon. The items discussed were:
1) Unity and Variance Discernment Group (UVDG) This discussion included the proposal and job description for the UVDG including how the Advisory Council members could help their respective congregations see the UVDG as important and take their work seriously. 2) Budget This discussion centered on the drop in conference income and the resulting cuts that needed to be made. The budget had been reduced over the last number of years but still needed to be significantly reduced due to continuing unrest within the conference. The possibility of staffing cuts was a large part of this discussion.
The January meeting offered a time of sharing positive congregational stories as well as items for discussion around the following:
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1) Each member provided a story of how their congregation or area of representation was involved in their local community. Examples included working with local schools, Bible studies, food pantries, helping the homeless, Vacation Bible School, local mission trips, and immigration work. Overall there was praise to God who supplies all our needs. 2) Peace Resolution This discussion concerned the proposed resolution coming to the MC USA convention in July. There was no overall consensus on the proposal but there was a general feeling that something should be said from the denomination and that the proposal was useful for awareness. 3) Visioning possibilities for IN-MI Mennonite Conference A number of suggestions were made as to how Conference might move forward given the uncertainty that exists. While not reaching any concrete answers, the Advisory Council wrestled with this question and provided input to the Missional Leadership Team. 4) Unity and Variance Discernment Group An update from UVDG was given. 5) John Howard Yoder (JHY) An update was provided. Concern was expressed for the abused women as
6) Budget and Staffing An update was provided. Concern was expressed for those whose jobs were being terminated. It was suggested that volunteers could help with the ongoing work of the conference office.
Each discussion of the various topics ended with prayer for the respective people involved.
Leadership Enhancement Team Report 2014-2015 by Suella Lehman Gerber, chair
We began our year in September at the Leadership consistent is that pastors value and appreciate their Retreat at Amigo Centre. For the first time, all staff CC. and leadership teams met for a common retreat which Jane Stoltzfus Buller (MLT) and Suella Gerber Because we wanted to have a better sense of the (LET) planned and led. We spent our time together theirs, we invited the RPs to talk about their work. Like congregational coaches, RPs each work us to do so. For those new in their leadership roles, differently, depending on the congregations and the weekend served, unexpectedly, as an their needs. In order to connect more closely with orientation to the work of staff and each team. We RPs in some of our overlapping work, Suella now also looked at how and where the different teams joins their bi-monthly phone meetings. and staff relate to congregations and each other. For a number of years, LET has talked about how credentialed pastors might be supported and After years of talking about a name change for encouraged in the ongoing growth and overseers, we have officially changed the name to development that is necessary to remain effective congregational coaches. leaders in their congregations. After meeting with but we felt it was important to move away from a the Ministry Credentialing Team to test our sense term that is linked to slavery and plantations.) LET of direction, we are in the early stages of creating a members met with CCs in the fall to hear from structure that will guide such a growth and development process. We will provide more them about their work with pastors and information on this initiative in the coming months, congregations. While the relationship looks and planning to fully introduce this framework in the works differently in each congregation, what is coming year.
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Ministry Credentialing Team Report: 2014-2015 by Kevin Yoder, chair
We gathered 13 times in the last year to shepherd the credentialing process of pastors in the conference. We were involved in processing 13 ordinations and four licensing requests which involve interviews with each candidate. We are blessed to hear how God has called and equipped individuals to lead in ministry in our conference.
We coordinated mentor relationships with four new pastors and offered suggestions for overseers/congregational coaches to two congregations. The Michigan Credentialing Subcommittee conducted a number of interviews and approved licensing for several pastors in Michigan churches.
MCT reviewed three congregational requests to join conference. The Mara Christian Church continues to court at relationship with conference and is interacting with local congregations in Indianapolis.
In the last year we have walked with three boundary crossing cases of credentialed leaders following the guidelines from MCUSA.
MCT met with Leadership Enhancement Team to outline continuing education expectations for credentialed leaders. Responsibility for pastor mentors and congregational coach assignments will be moved from MCT to LET following conference in 2015.
MCT has planned a boundaries seminar for pastors at conference in 2015. Melissa Hofstetter is the presenter. Marilyn Rudy-Froese has given primary leadership to planning the event.
Doug Kaufman consistently meets with the committee who are comprised of Bill Beck, June Alliman Yoder, Marilyn Rudy- .
LEADERSHIP REPORT OF CREDENTIALED PERSONS May 6, 2014 May 5, 2015
Ordained Jun 22 Dave Hathaway, Clinton Brick Mennonite Church, Goshen, IN Jan 11 Susan Dengler, College Mennonite, Goshen, IN
License Toward Ordination Oct 26 Carolyn Hunt, Prairie Street Mennonite, Elkhart, IN Nov 20 Anne Mitchell, Prairie Street, Elkhart, IN, chaplain
Apr 12 Kelly Bates Oglesby, Parkview Mennonite, Kokomo, IN
License Extension Mar 29 Shawn Lange, New Foundation, Elkhart, IN (until 3-29-16) May 6 Veva Zimmerman Mumaw, Olive, Elkhart, IN (until 5-6-16) Jun 24 Rebecca Kauffman, Paoli, Paoli, IN (until 6-24-16) Jun 24 Matthew Pflederer, Paoli, Paoli, IN (until 6-24-16) Aug 26 Marcella Hershberer, Bonneyville, Bristol (until 8-26-16) Sep 2 Brent Siegrist, Walnut Hill, Goshen, IN (until 9-2-16) 33
Nov 21 Rex Jones,Ninth Street, Saginaw, MI (until 11-21-16) Dec 16 Velma, Swartz, Waterford, Goshen, IN (until 12-16-16) Jan 20 Shannon Dycus, First Mennonite, Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN (until 1-20-17) Mar 3 Lora Nafziger, Assembly, Goshen, IN (until 3-3-17)
New Pastoral Leaders Beginning Date Installation Date Jun 02 Derrick Ramer, First, Middlebury, IN Jun 02 Aug 03 4 Steve Thomas, transitional, First, Indianapolis, IN Aug 03 4 Sept 28 4 Gwen Gustafson-Zook, College, Goshen, IN Sept 28 4 Oct 26 Carolyn Hunt, Prairie Street, Elkhart, IN Oct 26 Jan 30 Kenzie Intemann, Marion, Shipshewana, IN May 31 Mar 1 Randall C. Miller, interim, Forks, Middlebury, IN Apr 20 Kelly Bates Oglesby, Parkview Mennonite, Kokomo, IN Apr 20
Overseer Assignments Jan 13 Elmer Wall, Hudson Lake, New Carlisle, IN
Credential Transfer May 20 4 Gerald Shenk, from Virginia Conference May 20 4 Sara Wenger Shenk, from Virginia Conference May 20 Shawn Gerber, from Virginia Conference Sept 16 Ryan Ahlgrim, to Virginia Conference Oct 24 Todd Gusler, to Lancaster
Completion of Ministerial Assignment Nov 16 4 Keith Reynolds, Fairhaven, Ft. Wayne, IN, pastor Aug 30 4 Brian Wills, Liberty, IN, interim pastor Apr 13 Steve Slagel, East Goshen, Goshen, IN, pastor Apr 29 Willie Kanagy, College, Goshen, IN, pastor
Credential Ending since congregation leaving Jun 30 Linda S. Miller, Clinton Frame, Goshen, IN, pastor Jun 30 Sheila Troyer Jun 30 Anita Yoder Jun 30 Danny Yoder Jun 30 Matthew Yoder Aug 1 Ed Warner, Stutsmanville Chapel, Harbor Springs, MI, retired pastor Oct 1 David Hathaway, Clinton Brick, Goshen, IN, pastor
Deceased Pastors Weyburn W. Groff, 92, member of College Mennonite Church, Goshen, IN passed away Thursday, October 2, 2014. His wife Thelma preceded him in death in 2010. Weyburn is survived by three daughters, a son, a sister, and a brother. He and his deceased wife, Thelma, spent 20 years as Mennonite missionaries in India. Weyburn was a founder of Union Biblical Seminary in Yeotmal, Maharashtra where he served as faculty in Christian education. Weyburn served as pastor of Floridale Mennonite Church in Ontario. He also served at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary in Elkhart as faculty in Christian education and as registrar. He retired in 1989.
Harvey Chupp, 77, member of Emma Mennonite Church, Topeka, IN passed away Friday, February 13, 2015. His wife Carolyn survives along with two daughters and a son; seven grandchildren, three brothers and four sisters.
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Over a span of 30 years, Harvey served as pastor four Mennonite congregations (Burr Oak, Gospel Hill, Shore and North Goshen). He was also instrumental in helping to create Menno-Hof, the Depot and Menno-Clinic India. Harvey also served as overseer of several Mennonite churches and on three Mennonite Central Committee boards. After retiring from pastoral ministry, he became owner of the Bread Box Bakery in Shipshewana and the Pie Pantry in Goshen.
Millard C. Lind, 96, member of Goshen College Mennonite Church, passed away Saturday, April 25, 2015. He is survived by his children and their spouses; 18 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren. Millard was a graduate of Goshen College in 1942 and received a Th.D. from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary in 1964. He served as a pastor, writer, editor and, notably, as a teacher. He was a professor of Old Testament at Goshen Biblical Seminary and its successor, Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminaries, from 1959 until his retirement in 1998. Among his published writings are a study of Old Testament warfare, "Yahweh Is a Warrior" (1980), and of capital punishment, "The Sound of Sheer Silence and the Killing State" (2004).
Stewardship Team 2014 by Dirk Wolfer, interim chair
A brief overview regarding Stewardship for 2014-2015 is as follows: Rose Shetler joined our team in July and has been a great addition Conference hosted a financial development webinar in July that was attended by a number of congregations. Rich Gerig from Advancement Associates and Brad Miller from Everence were co- presenters Facilitated the distribution of $39,500 to Hopewell Mennonite in August from the Capital Grant fund. This fund is available to congregations to assist in building projects Four members of the stewardship team attended a leadership retreat in September that was held at Amigo Centre Due to a job transfer, Brad Sommer resigned, which left us without a chairperson for a few months We were not as hands on with the spending plan as we normally are MLT took a more active role, due to the projected $100,000 decrease in income to Conference for 2015-2016 Despite a lesser role in the spending plan, we continued to monitor income and expenses on a monthly basis Greg Sommers has been valuable to our work on Stewardship and he will be greatly missed as his role as Conference Administrator comes to an end on June 30.
Journey: A Conference-based Leadership Development Program by Jewel Gingerich Longenecker, Associate Dean for Leadership Education at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary
35 people were involved in the Journey program Carpenter; Brian Martin and mentor Dave Sutter; during the 2014-2015 year, including 18 Shawn A Lange, Sr. and Tyrone Taylor and mentor participants and 12 mentors. Three participants Keith Kingsley; Carol Honderich and mentor and two mentors were from Central District Eleanor Kreider; Leighton Miller and mentor James Conference, nine participants and seven mentors Troyer; Leandrea Lange and Tantra Taylor and were from Indiana-Michigan Conference, and six Gretchen Kingsley; Emily Hostetler and mentor Wes participants and three mentors were from Illinois Bontreger. Conference. Indiana-Michigan Conference participants were: Denise Colona and mentor Faith All participants gathered at Amigo Centre for the fall Weekend Learning Event. Eleanor Krieder led 35
Prayer is the Wall of Faith: , and each mentor submitted Listen to the Early Church Praying Back the reflections on the learning of his/her mentee. Promises of God: Listen to the Anabaptists Draw Near to God and God Will Draw Near to Following the spring Weekend Learning Event You Eleanor Kreider also led worship sessions mentor-mentee pairs again met bi-weekly to throughout the weekend, assisted by Bob Rosa. It discuss a unit of the was a time of great learning, worship and curriculum and to reflect on their ongoing ministry friendship-building. Saturday afternoon cohort experiences. sessions included opportunities for participants to The Journey Board continues to play a vital role in work on their personal timelines, take personality keeping the program running in good form. The inventories, and explore spiritual direction. Mentors Journey Board chair is Philip Leichty until the end of and mentees also met together to work on and April, after which we will have a new chair. update their learning covenants. Members are: Ardean Friesen (CDC) and Phil Following the fall gathering, participants each Bontrager (Indiana-Michigan). Staff people from studied a unit from the AMBS curriculum, Leading partnering organizations are: Lois Kaufmann . As part of these studies they carried (Conference Minister, CDC), Dan Miller (Conference out a wide variety of ministry tasks in their Minister, Indiana-Michigan), Jewel Gingerich congregations and communities. They met with Longenecker (Associate Dean for Leadership their mentors, typically bi-weekly, to discuss the Education, AMBS), Rebecca Slough (Academic study materials and their experiences in ministry. Dean, AMBS). Regular attendee from Illinois Conference is Roland Kuhl, Conference Minister The spring Weekend Learning Event focused on Liaison for Journey. Leadership for a Missional Church in three parts led by David Miller. Eleanor Kreider and Bob Rosa According to our Journey participants and alumni, Journey is a tremendous opportunity for pastors, served as worship leaders. The participants emerging pastors and other emerging leaders. If reported much learning and deep appreciation for someone you know wants to develop ministry gifts the learning community that has developed among or is exploring a call to ministry, please encourage these sisters and brothers in Christ. Each mentee them speak to Lois Johns Kaufmann about whether submitted a reflection paper focused on his/her the Journey program might be the right next step. learning from the previous unit of studies in
Transitional Ministry Training Report 2014-2015 by Gary Martin
Transitional Ministry Training, in partnership with Amigo Centre and in consultation with Mennonite Church USA Leadership Development, provides:
assessment and resources for discerning a call to transitional ministry, training of transitional ministers and conference leaders, and continuing education and support for transitional ministers and conference leaders.
The 2015 assessment and training event was held March 9-13, with eleven participants representing Indiana Michigan, Central Plains, Franconia and Eastern Canada conferences. Gary Martin and Tim Lehman were the primary trainers, with Dan Miller and Cliff Brubaker each leading several sessions.
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The 2016 training will take place April 4-8, at Amigo Centre. Additional information and registration forms are available at amigocentre.org.
Transitional Pastors Group, a continuing education and support group serving IMMC, Illinois Mennonite Conference and Central District Conference, meets quarterly at the IMMC office. Approximately 10 transitional ministers or conference leaders regularly participate. Transitional Ministry Training values its networking relationship with IMMC.
Conference Historian Report 2014-2015 four- by John Bender, conference historian will report during this year on our process and findings and how other congregations might want Every congregation that makes up Indiana to do something similar or, alternately hear from Michigan Mennonite Conference sits on gold. Every you on how you are uncovering the story of the conference- lives and times that animated your congregational equals memory, found only by digging deep to life. where it all started. find both gold and dross. Both are vital elements of celebration, named after our founding pastor, calls truth. No congregation has a sweet, perfectly us sparkling story, whether past, present or future. Yet music, migration, mentoring and media. Again, God has seen fit to entrust the church with sharing please let me know how your congregation Christian faith, being reconciled and reconciling refreshes and sharpens your unique memory. communities, worshiping God alone, living our faith in the here and now Mary Swartley has shepherded the development of joyfully in the world God patiently and lovingly the new conference history, written by Rich took the trouble to give us. also an account of the dross that is part of our humanity in being the During the year I took small steps in digging for church. I eagerly await the completed Crossroads gold in my congregation, Prairie Street Mennonite and Boundaries: A History of Indiana Michigan Church. I joined two others, Alan Kreider and Becky Mennonite Conference being available by our Schaller, who was part of the Elkhart VS Unit, in summer sessions 2016. doing an oral history project that mined the congregation s memory of its life in the 1960s and Memory matters. Stay calm and dig for gold. 1970s. We gave a preliminary report as part of a
History Project Report 2014-2015 by Mary Swartley
The good news on our Indiana Michigan History Project is that in February we received word that our manuscript has been accepted by the Studies in Anabaptist Mennonite History group. The title is: Crossroads and Boundaries: A History of Indiana Michigan Mennonite Conference with Rich Preheim as author. This group has encouraged some additional work on the manuscript which Rich is already giving attention to.
The SAMH history group recommends it to Herald Press for publication, and we have been in touch with Amy Gingerich who is suggesting that we have the final draft to her by October 1. Some of the work that needs to
37 be completed before October 1 includes appendices, and photo selection. The projected date for release is May 1, 2016. At least we have hope that it will be available by June 2016.
To give you a tiny excerpt from the manuscript, I am including a quote from the last paragraph of the text as it now reads:
But there is another pattern in the annals of the church, one without ups and downs. It is the constancy
love of the Lord i 1 For those who choose to follow and try to serve God, that is the most important history lesson of all.
Thank you to all of you for your patience. I hope the book will serve the conference well in telling some of the stories of our past years, and guide us into the future 1 Psalm 103:17a
Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Women 2014 January 1, 2014 December 31, 2014 by Shirley Bustos, president
IN-MI Mennonite Women sponsored the following gatherings in 2013: 1) On April 27, the Northern Spring Gathering took place in the U.P., with the Grand Marais congregation serving as host. Margaret Hershberger gave a slide presentation of her trip to China. Barbara Gerber spoke on the topic God Encounters: in Scripture and the Present Day. 2) On May 4th, the Goshen area Spring Gathering was hosted by Belmont Mennonite Church. Our speaker was Bethany Swope, presenting the topic: Hospitality in the Frenzy. She focused on the story of Mary and Martha from the bible. Eleanor Kreider served as song leader. 3) A luncheon was held on June 8th at College Mennonite Church, in conjunction with IN-MI Mennonite Conference. Denise Colona, an Elder at Community Christian Fellowship in Detroit and a Journey Program member, shared her life story and her vision for ministry. Sharon Rohrer, soloist, sang the . 4) 103 women gathered for the annual retreat at Amigo Centre on October 11-13. Jackie Wyse-Rhodes spoke on the topic survival, adventure, and faithfulness. Jackie she discussed their lives. Kristin Kauffman served as song leader. We were blessed with wonderful weather for this weekend of relaxation, inspiration, fellowship and delicious meals.
Like us on Facebook! We have created a Facebook page and hope to increase our number of friends. Find us at Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Women. Congregations are invited to post photos of those involve activities.
God has graciously supplied women to fill offices. Vice-President Judy Yoder completed her term. Heidi McHugh is our new Vice-President. Secretary Gwen Hernley is completing her final year of service. Wendy Yoder Nice is our new secretary-elect. Melanie Miller resigned as treasurer when she moved out of state. Joy Detweiler has agreed to step into that role. Barb Gerber continues as Northern Rep. and a member of the executive committee. God has graciously supplied our need for women to serve in these positions.
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The Corinthian Plan (MCUSA Report) 2014-2015 Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Conference continues by Duncan Smith, director to be a strong supporter of The Corinthian Plan. Currently, 30 congregations carry health coverage The Corinthian Plan (TCP) is now in its sixth year with an additional 6 that are waiving health serving Mennonite Church USA congregations, coverage. An additional 7 participate but do not conferences and their employees. TCP provides have active coverage. Conference staff are also on health coverage, life insurance and long-term the health plan. disability coverage and optional dental and vision coverage. As in past years, participation in The The Corinthian Plan is seeking to emphasize health Corinthian Plan remains stable. There has been and wellness for everyone. At your annual meeting, some loss in overall participation, but there has you can participate in a walking challenge. For TCP also been new congregations joining. participants, find out more about the Wellness Incentive at the booth or website So far, http://mennoniteusa.org/what-we-do/the- has not had a huge impact on The Corinthian Plan corinthian-plan/. (TCP). Several possible reasons: for the type of health coverage TCP remains competitive in most Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Conference is United States markets. TCP also offers Life represented on the Benefits Board by Ken Insurance, Long Term Disability, and Accidental Hochstetler (new Everence CEO), Steve Garboden Death and Dismemberment. There is also the and Dave Weaver. Others on the board are Yvonne mutual aid factor, especially supporting Sieber (Hesston, KS), Marcy Engle (Harrisonburg, congregations (through subsidies). Since its VA), Marlin Groff (Lancaster, PA), and Hal Loewen, inception in 2010 The Corinthian Plan has chair (Phoenix, AR). shared$2.17 million from the Fair Balance Fund, funded by TCP congregations contributing $10 per In Indiana-Michigan you can contact Joe Christophel (574-361-2948), TCP Area average attendee. Finally, there the desire to Representative, or you can look for him at your participate in a pool of MC USA congregations, conference meeting. Go to our website to find out supporting those in good and challenging health more http://mennoniteusa.org/what-we-do/the- situations. corinthian-plan/. Duncan Smith, TCP Director can be reached at 316-281-4255.
Chapter 5 Conference Institutions
Amigo Centre
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Bethany Christian Schools 2014-15 by Jim Buller, interim Head of School
thank God for blessing the work of the school over these decades.
Campaign for Sustainability
major renovation including geothermal wells, new heating and AC work, and a new metal roof with significant improvements to insulation were completed in phase one work, that will allow major savings in energy costs for years to come. Continuing this project was helped by a $100,000 grant from the Indiana Energy Commission, that will allow phase 2 work for solar panels and a wind turbine to further expand savings, as well as learning opportunities for students in creation care.
Transitions and opportunities
Each year schools go through a period of adjustment as some personnel move on, and new ones join. Bethany experienced a very significant mid-year adjustment as long term Head of School Allan Dueck retired December 31, 2014. With the naming of Tim Lehman to the position beginning July 1, 2015 the interim period for second semester has been good because of a strong Administrative Team, excellent leadership in the faculty, and a very supportive Board throughout the process. Most years find change in faculty, and this is true of Bethany as well. We will say goodbye this spring to Nathan Swartzendruber (Choral director) as he moves to Iowa to enroll in a Craig Mast (Spanish teacher) will be moving with wife and 2 daughters back to Kidron Ohio to be closer to
blessing in their transitions, and are very pleased we have been able to attack strong and capable new teachers for these roles.
Faith-based education
Dr. Ginny Birky of George Fox University completed her post-doctoral research on Mennonite High Schools with several key strengths overall, and specific information for each of the schools where she was able to complete her research: o Positive feelings about the school students and parents report a high degree of satisfaction about participation in and with the school. o Holistic mentoring: repeated words of caring and community; living in the reality of adults who truly are passionate about their work and vision for youth. o Faith development: giving space and dedicating time to important questions of formation, in class, on the athletic field, or on stage it is essential to what we do.
Thank you for supporting Bethany this year. Your counsel and financial support as well as your prayers and encouragement are vital enabling Bethany to continue equipping students for Christian discipleship in the church and around the world.
rer), Rex Hochstetler, Michelle Horning, Marsha King, Barb Smucker, Rachel Lehman Stoltzfus, Bob Yoder, and Sharon Yoder (chair)
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