Western Pennsylvania District holds its 139th conference.

Western Pennsylvania District held its 139th annual District Conference at the Frank J. Pasquerilla Conference Center in Johnstown, Pa., on Oct. 22. Moderator Christopher A. Forry of Somerset, Pa., challenged the approximately 260 participants--including 185 delegates representing 53 congregations--with the theme, "Proclaim, Sharing, Teaching--God's Love For All." The district comprises 69 churches and one fellowship with a membership of over 10,000.

Worship, music, and historical sketches were interspersed throughout the business of the day. In business sessions, a budget of $186,787 was adopted for 2006. A highlight of the conference was recognition of a new congregation, Journey's Way Ministries of Glencoe, Pa. Congregations and individuals also brought enough Gift of the Heart Kits to send five pallets to Church World Service for disaster response.

Insight sessions were held on subjects including an overview of the work of the District Mission Program that includes the Christian Community Center in San Juan, P.R., and the Emanuel Children's Home in San Pedro Sula, Honduras; a presentation about the work of the Gifts Discernment Team; and a presentation from the General Board's Emergency Response/Service Ministries.

Leadership called during the conference included nine called to the district board: Kendal W. Elmore, Roger C. Knepper, Abby Mader, Eric R. Ritenour, Robert L. Rummel, Jeffrey S. Keyser, John W. Stoner Jr., Homer A. Foster, and Clarice J. Ott. Donna L. Kodis was named to the Church of the Brethren Home Board. Owen W. Hunt was called to the District Charitable Trust Board. Called to the board of Camp Harmony were James Cameron, Marietta Prebehalla, and David Tipton. Roger L. Forry was named to the denomination's Standing Committee. Darlene Rankin will serve on the district conference's program and arrangements committee.

Phillip A. King of Johnstown, Pa., was installed as moderator of the district for next year. Reba B. Johnson of Indiana, Pa., was named moderator-designate.

Source: 11/30/2005 Newsline
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