The Sessions Committee met today to discuss details for Annual Conference 2020.
Creating Difference Makers in Global Health: Seeking Health and Wholeness for All was confirmed as the theme for Annual Conference 2020. Conference offerings will relate to the theme of
global health, and Lunch and Learns will be held focusing on this theme.
Larry and Jane Kies, Iowa missionaries working with Africa University on a sustainable farm, will lead the Teaching Session.
According to the Board of Global Ministries, Larry’s duties involve working with the farm manager to develop an agricultural program that makes the university farm more efficient in its roles of teaching and research. In addition, he is involved in student agricultural practicals and teaches classes in crop production and farm management.
Reflecting on her assignment at Africa University, Jane says, “Working with young people who come to Africa University with a passion to learn English is a rewarding experience. Fluency in English equips them to study for a degree that will enable them to carry out their particular ministries and use their gifts. I am thankful for the opportunity my students give me to learn about the diversity of cultures and peoples on the African continent. I also value the opportunities there are to study and discuss the Bible together, and help the students apply its teachings to their lives and experiences at Africa University.”
Rev. Craig Ferguson of the Worship Committee reported that the themes of the three services at the conference will follow Abundant Physical Health, Vibrant Mental Health, and Resilient Spiritual Health from
The United Methodist Church's Abundant Health program.
A new change for 2020 is that The Annual Conference Session will begin on Friday afternoon, June 5, at 1:30 p.m. with opening worship and the episcopal address. Conference will finish on Sunday afternoon after the Ordering of Ministry service.
Bishop Frank Beard of The Illinois Great Rivers Conference will be preaching during the Ordering of Ministry Service. Bishop Beard was elected in 2016 and served as an ordained elder in the Indiana Area of the United Methodist Church.
Parking, clergy and laity sessions, and the Diakonos' responsibilities were other considerations during the meeting.
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