This past weekend, Revs. Liz & Thomas, plus Erick E., Joyce M-B., Mary Ellen M. and Kimble S. attended the Southeast Conference Annual Meeting. They were joined by more than 75 other ministers, laypeople, and visitors from across the Southeast Conference.
Here’s a recap of what happened at Annual Meeting:
Friday
Rachel Ward, the UCC’s Team Lead & Minister of Gender & Human Sexuality Justice, led a moving worship service. Rachel also introduced many of us to the “Love Is Louder” campaign of the UCC. There will be an exciting opportunity for Central to participate in the campaign during Atlanta Pride Month. We were also joined by Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson, the General Minister & President, of the UCC, who shared an update on work over the past year. She also called on all of us to explore widening our welcome.
During our first business session, we received updates from several conference partners. Of note is that the UCC Campus Ministry at the UGA Presbyterian Center is now The Table, an ecumenical partnership for UCC, PCUSA, Disciples of Christ, and Cooperative Baptist Fellowship students at the University of Georgia! Central was again recognized as a “Five for Five” congregation, continuing our support of all five of the UCC’s special offerings. Additionally, our financial support of the conference remains strong, as we donated one of the highest amounts to of any congregation this year.
Saturday
Kimble led a workshop that introduced people to faith-based advocacy. Although time was short, they were able to give a crash course in a few of the things for churches and individuals to consider in this important work. Later in the day, Rev. Thompson le
d worship, which included the solemn sharing the names of departed saints. Revs. Liz and Thomas both led parts of the service.
d worship, which included the solemn sharing the names of departed saints. Revs. Liz and Thomas both led parts of the service. Our Saturday business session included an update on the conference’s new staffing model and a decision to redraw the geographic boundaries of the conference. Since its founding, the SEC has been composed of 5-and-a-half states. During this session, the delegates approved a process that will connect the Florida panhandle with the rest of the Florida conference.
We also learned about a new church start in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and two more that are planned for Mississippi and South Carolina! Finally, Truman M. and Kimble were recognized for their respective 65th and 10th ordination anniversaries.
What Else?
Annual Meeting is just that. But it’s also so much more. It’s a set time and place for members and ministers of our far-flung conference to come together as one. Friendships are formed and rekindled; new connections are made; and, we get to dance and delight in how God is moving in our conference and the wider UCC.
It’s an opportunity that we hope you’ll consider participating in next year!
