Western Plains District Conference sees signs of transformation.

With a theme of “God’s Love Forever and Ever,” the Western Plains District Conference was convened by moderator LeRoy Weddle at McPherson (Kan.) Church of the Brethren and McPherson College. The conference had 272 registered attendees.

Jim Kinsey, Congregational Life Team staff of the General Board, was the theme speaker. Sandy Bosserman, executive minister for Missouri and Arkansas District, spoke at the minister and spouse dinner.

There was an emphasis on the congregational transformation movement that is permeating the district, reported district co-executive minister Elsie Holderread. Singing, worship, sharing of individual faith stories, and congregational stories of transformation were woven throughout the weekend. The presence of 30 youth, some coming directly from National Youth Conference in Fort Collins, Colo., was a positive influence. The renovation to the church added greatly to the quality and comfort of the conference, Holderread added.

In business sessions, the 73 delegates from 32 congregations passed a $194,000 district budget, approved a constitutional amendment, and elected eight new district board members and elected Sonja Griffith as moderator-elect.

A Projects Unlimited auction raised $4,416.25 to be divided between Heifer Project, Trees for Life, On Earth Peace, Disaster Child Care, Camp Colorado, Camp Mount Hermon, the Outdoor Ministries Association, the Western Plains District General Fund, McPherson College, the Lybrook Mission, and Darfur World Hunger. The district quilt sold for $1,000.

Next year’s district conference will be held at McPherson, Kan., July 27-29 with David Smalley as moderator.

Source: 8/16/2006 Newsline
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