Northern Ohio District meets on the theme, 'Grace Alone.'

"Grace Alone" was the theme for the Northern Ohio District Conference, held Aug. 6-8 at Ashland University. Over 400 registered for the weekend event.

The conference included deacon training sessions led by Association of Brethren Caregivers director of resources Scott Douglas, a conscientious objection workshop led by On Earth Peace Conflict Transformation Program coordinator Annie Clark and district peace/conciliation worker Russ Veal, an update on Bethany Theological Seminary's centennial celebration and campaign led by director of Public Relations Marcia Shetler, and a presentation on a proposed joint Brethren Volunteer Service/Northern Ohio District project focusing on evangelism led by BVS director Dan McFadden and the district's General Board representative Doug Price.

Senior High Performing Arts Camp members presented a musical entitled "Because We Believe" at the opening worship service and following Saturday's business session. District executive minister John Ballinger preached on "Gracious Words from a Gracious Savior," from Luke 4:16-22, at an evening worship service.

Sunday morning activities also included the Junior Performing Arts Camp musical "Tale of Three Trees," and a closing worship service message on the conference theme from Ephesians 2:8-9, given by moderator Bruce Jacobsen, pastor of Bethel Church of the Brethren in New Middletown, Ohio. The service included a celebration of communion and consecration of 2005 moderator Terry Baldwin, pastor of Silver Creek Church of the Brethren in Pioneer, Ohio, and moderator-elect Andy Hamilton, pastor of Center Church of the Brethren in Louisville, Ohio.

Source: Newsline 8/20/2004
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