Oregon and Washington District meets at Camp Koinonia.

Moderator Howard Ullery convened the Oregon and Washington District Conference on Sept. 25-27 at Camp Koinonia in Cle Elum, Wash. The approximately 70 attendees enjoyed seasonably warm, early fall weather in a delightful camp setting.

The conference theme was "Come to the Lakeshore." Ken and Elsie Holderread, co-district executives in Western Plains District, were the keynote speakers. Starting with the text from John 21 in which Jesus advises the disciples to cast their nets on the other side of the boat, the Holderreads talked about innovative ways Western Plains is "doing district."

The business session featured a report from the district’s finance committee. For the past few years, regular income to the district has not been sufficient to cover yearly costs of ministry. The district’s bank balance has been drawn down, and funds designated for other uses have been tapped to meet these costs. Churches are being encouraged to make district ministries a part of their regular church budget. The committee observed that average Sunday morning attendance throughout the district is approximately 610. If that many people contributed a quarter a day the district would have the funds needed to accomplish shared district ministries.

Meeting in small groups, delegates and attendees brain-stormed ideas for special events to highlight district ministries, build cooperation and fellowship, and raise funds. Delegates adopted a budget of $56,790 for the coming year.

Frosty and Nancy Louise Wilkinson organized the disaster auction. Ken Michael was again an entertaining auctioneer. Over $2,000 dollars was raised for disaster relief. Marie Wiles and Pat Wright also provided an opportunity for attendees to purchase items from artisans around the world through a SERRV Store. Carol Bowman organized a talent show on Saturday night with Mike Titus as master of ceremonies.

Before Sunday morning worship, the assembled group thanked Ullery for his service as moderator for the past two years. Ken Rieman led in a special anointing service for a member who is contending with ALS (Lou Gehrig s disease). Continuing prayers on her behalf would be appreciated. Ken Holderread sent the participants home with closing words of hope and inspiration.

-- This report first appeared in the Oregon and Washington District newsletter.

Source: 12/30/2009 Newsline Extra