Mid-Atlantic District conference incorporates learning centers.

The 40th Mid-Atlantic District Conference was held in Manassas, Va., on Oct. 6-7, incorporating a new approach to business as well as new “learning centers.”

The event began with a Pre-Conference Clergy Workshop with Mennonite comedians Ted and Lee, who brought their “theater works” to help clergy explore biblical stories from a unique perspective and to open eyes to the humor in the stories. Ted and Lee also added an unusual experience to worship Friday evening, with theater and humor transmitting a message on stewardship, “It’s Going to Cost How Much?”

Saturday’s session began with Bible study with Ted and Lee continuing the theme of stewardship. Manassas pastor and conference moderator Jeff Carter led the 281 conference-goers--representing 52 congregations--through the business. A new approach to business was used, as delegates were provided detailed information on each item of business in the morning, with a question and answer period following each explanation, and final decisions made in the afternoon.

Acting on a recommendation from the district’s Leadership Team, the conference decided to provide for an annual district audit in the form of a review by an outside CPA. Financial records of the Outdoor Ministry Facilities will be performed in accordance to its financial guidelines.

In other business, delegates approved accepting Community of Joy as a member congregation, along with a constitution change that affirms District Conference as the final authority to charter member congregations. The 2007 district budget was passed with an appeal for congregations to increase their stewardship and contribution to district ministries. The 2007 leadership slate was affirmed and three members for the Leadership Calling Team were selected. Dale Posthumus was called as moderator-elect for 2007.

The new format also included learning centers on the topics of worship, evangelism, and vital congregations, led by a combination of lay leadership and congregational and denominational staff. Ideas presented in the learning centers were steeped in personal experience and in research gleaned from a variety of resources, and provided attendees with at least one or more ideas to try in their respective congregations.

During lunch, Jim Benedict, author of the six-week curriculum “Together: Conversations on Being the Church,” answered questions and provided information to a small group of delegates. At least one small group from each congregation is encouraged to utilize the Together materials and report back to the denomination by April 2007.

Source: 11/22/2006 Newsline