Southeastern District Conference called to be 'Beam of Hope.'

Southeastern District Conference was held on July 24-26 at Mars Hill (N.C.) College. The theme from moderator Jeff Jones was, "The Church: Called to be the Beam of Hope." Throughout the conference there was the opportunity for individuals to share their favorite scriptures and how God has used those scriptures in their lives.

The business session started at 2 p.m. on Friday, July 24, with reports from agencies and district commission reports, along with a pastor recognition, and other reports. A presentation was given on how to make camps and churches a "Safe Place." The $91,617 budget was approved.

Jim Hardenbrook, a former moderator of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, delivered the messages for worship on Friday evening and Sunday morning, along with the messages for the pastors and spouses noon lunch, and the youth gathering.

The 35 youth led the worship service on Saturday evening, July 25, with the message of "God's Gift to Us, Jesus," presented by mime ministry. After the youth worship time, ice cream and cake were served to recognize all those who volunteer their time for the district's camping ministry.

The 2010 district conference moderator John Markwood shared that the theme for next year will be, "For God so Loved..." (John 3:16). Randy Clark, pastor of Brummetts Creek Church of the Brethren in Green Mountain, N.C., was called as moderator-elect.

-- Martha Roudebush is district co-executive minister for Southeastern District.

Source: 8/13/2009 Newsline