Monday Morning, June 12, Laity & Clergy Sessions; Opening Session
Ron Hardman, who is finishing his term as conference lay leader, was presented with a scroll from Heart Havens, friends and family. Shirley Cauffman, Arlington District lay leader, also presented Ron with a gift, a "clean cross." He thanked those gathered for the "privilege of serving." Bishop Charlene Kammerer issued the "Call to Order" at 11 a.m. to both clergy and laity members. She presented bishops related to the Virginia Conference: Ray Chamberlain, Kern Eutsler, Hasbrouck Hughes, C.P. Minnick, Bishop Joao Alves de Olivereira Filho (Brazil).
Myrtle Frances Hatcher, host Peninsula District superintendent, described the area of Hampton, Jamestown, Williamsburg and Yorktown. "The 35 congregations of the Peninsula District are all rejoicing as we welcome the 224th session of the Virginia Annual Conference. Many have prayed for this day and all who are involved. Thank you for giving the district this opportunity to offer you this hospitality." Myrtle Frances introduced her husband John, who in turn, introduced Leigh Kammerer, the bishop's husband. He thanked the gathering for the warm welcome he and his wife have received during their travels throughout the year. The Rev. Stan Wright of the Annual Conference Planning Committee recognized members of that committee. Barbara Reed, Peninsula District lay leader, introduced the wives of bishops in attendance. Mr. Dane Mills presented the Rules Committee report which was adopted by conference members. The Common Table for Church Vitality report was directed by Ron Hardman in the absence of Dr. Susan Garrett. Dr. Garrett and her husband, Dan, had an unexpected trip to California to be with a son who was hospitalized but is improving daily. The Common Table is collecting suggestions from members gathered to put in "earthern vessels" placed throughout the coliseum. The statistician and evangelism reports were combined. Dr. Dennis Scheer, the new conference treasurer and statistician, looked at 30 years of statistics. He reported significant gains in membership following the devastation of Sept. 11, 2001. Worship attendance has increased. There has been an even number of net gains and net losses over 30 years. Over 500 churches had not received any persons on profession of faith for 2005. The bishop challenged churches to bring in new members.
The Denman Award for Evangelism was presented to David Bonney, clergy, who started a new church in Chesterfield County. Ross Leacham received the laity award. Anna Workman of the conference Office of Evangelism presented pastors and families who have accepted the call to establish six new faith communities in the conference. The new congregations are:
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