Western Plains District called to discipleship.

"Called to Be and to Make Disciples" was the theme for Western Plains District conference, held at McPherson (Kan.) College and McPherson Church of the Brethren July 30-Aug. 1. Moderator Irven Stern led 76 delegates representing 32 congregations in business sessions that received reports from related organizations, Church of the Brethren agencies, and the district board; revised the district's constitution and by laws; and adopted a balanced budget of $151,995 for 2005. Registered attendance was 255.

Special events included the installation of executive district ministers Ken and Elsie Holderread. Moderator Stern and Bethany Theological Seminary dean Stephen Reid preached. A troupe from the McPherson congregation presenting "Cotton Patch Gospel," directed by Shane Kirchner.

A Renewal Steering Committee gave an initial report of work that the committee is doing using the book "Reclaiming the Great Commission," by Bishop Claude Payne as a basis and guide. Several testimonies were given of what is already happening in church renewal in Western Plains. "The mood of the conference was positive, with a high degree of enthusiasm for the efforts of the work of the Renewal Steering Committee," reported Ray Glick, the General Board's counselor for Deferred Gifts, who attended the conference to lead an Estate Planning Seminar.

The conference also viewed a slide show prepared by Don Vermilyea, Brethren Volunteer Service worker engaged in a "Walk Across America." Vermilyea, currently in Northern Plains District, had visited most congregations in Western Plains on his walk. He donated a pair of "well worn" shoes to the annual Projects Unlimited auction that brought in $5,248 for a variety of charities. A children's playhouse sold for $800, which will go to disaster relief. The playhouse was built on-site at the conference, coordinated by disaster response team members Bill Winter and Byron Frantz.

The next Western Plains District conference will be held Aug. 5-7, 2005, with Parsram Venkatsammy as moderator and LeRoy Weddle as moderator-elect.

Source: Newsline 8/06/2004
Top