Western Plains District re-ignites its witness.

Western Plains District Conference met Aug. 5-7 at Colorado State University in Pueblo for a weekend of fun, fellowship, business, and inspiration. More than 200 people attended from Colorado, Kansas, and Nebraska.

The theme, "Reigniting our Witness," grew out of the congregational renewal and transformation enterprise being launched at the Oct. 28-30 meeting called The Gathering, that invites congregations into a three-year covenant with the district. "Storytelling and faith sharing enhanced the spirit of anticipation and hope that is growing in the district," reported district co-executive minister Elsie Holderread. Sharing the campus facilities with approximately 100 military returnees from Iraq was an added opportunity for witness.

Moderator Parsram Venkatsammy, pastor of Ottawa (Kan.) Community Church of the Brethren, inspired the conference in his opening worship service. Jim Hardenbrook, past Annual Conference moderator, picked up on the theme and challenged the conference in his messages in Saturday evening and Sunday morning worship services. Stan Noffsinger, general secretary of the General Board, inspired and encouraged attendees at the minister/spouse dinner.

Twenty youth participated in the conference and activities led by Brethren Volunteer Service worker Nicole Suiters, as well as doing a service project at a pregnancy caring center. "The chair of the board for the center was so impressed with their work that she invited them to her house to swim when their work was completed!" said Holderread.

During the light business agenda, a 2006 budget was approved and new officers were elected. Two new church planters were recognized for their work. Pastors new to the district were introduced and Milestones in Ministry awards were given to 15 ordained ministers. Spirited bidding at the Projects Unlimited Auction raised $3,500 for mission projects. The pre-conference workshop and breakout sessions on vision and mission, vitality in smaller congregations, peace, the new Gather 'Round curriculum, and outdoor ministries were well attended.

Consecration of new officers and leaders followed the closing worship. LeRoy Weddle, an ordained minister from McPherson, Kan., will moderate the 2006 conference in McPherson July 28-30. David Smalley, pastor of Rochester Community Church of the Brethren in Topeka, Kan., is the moderator-elect.

Source: 08/31/2005 Newsline
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