Pastors and Church Leaders,
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus,
It is my privilege to serve among you as your District Superintendent in this appointive year.
As you are aware, in the coming year, with prayer and the leading of the Holy Spirit, decisions will be made affecting the number and size of districts and how District Superintendents will lead the pastors and churches under their supervision. The DS and district leaders will necessarily need to develop the means to enable pastors and churches to live out their mission in different ways than they have in the past.
I believe the connection amongst pastors and churches is essential to our identity as United Methodists. Pastors and churches must be willing to support, resource, and encourage each other. This is the essence of the Connexion (CBD)/Mission (EW) Zone. We are much better together than alone. Thus, my hope is that the churches of the zones will be well engaged with one another in preparation for what is to come.
The annual fall Church Conferences will meet in zones again this year. Part of the purpose is to provide opportunity for the people of the churches in the zone to connect, get to know one another, and build relationships. This fall, the zoned church conferences will further this intent with some adjustments.
All will gather in the sanctuary of the host church where we will begin with a message from the DS. The District Lay Leaders, and possibly other district ministry leaders, will share updates. Pastors, this year I ask that you each present one unique ministry that is taking place in and/or through your church.
The required annual business of the fall Church Conference will follow the Business of the Church Conference form. This voting will take place in plenary. It is expected that all paperwork will be prepared, have been made available at the church with any questions properly cared for prior to the Church Conference and be in the hands of your attending members, and that any additional matters for vote have been previously approved by the DS.
Thank you for making sure that all required paperwork is submitted to the district office Ten days or more in advance of the church conference.
God’s blessings as you continue to live into God’s mission to Make Disciples of Jesus.
DS John Kasper