2016 Special Edition Circuit Rider

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TheCircuitRider Special Annual Conference Edition :: Saturday, June 11, 2016

2016 Annual Conference – GENEROSITY is The POWER of We “God is generous to me.

I can’t help but to live generously.”

– Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr.

Opening Worship North Alabama DCM Master of gospel, not “Swanson spin” Page 4

Mississippi-Africa U Partnership Leader’s optimistic on campaign’s success Page 11

GC Delegates Detailed report highlighting General Conference 2016 Page 5 Mississippi’s first Methodist ordained clergy woman, Ruth Wood, 90, returns for 60 year commeration of the ordination of women.

Circuit Rider Special Edition photographs taken by Greg Campbell.

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2016 Session of The Mississippi Annual Conference

Generosity is the POWER of We Greetings Faithful Friends,

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The 2016 Session of the Mississippi Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church convenes officially on June 9, 2016 at the Jackson Convention Center in Jackson, MS. Our theme for this year’s conference is GENEROSITY is The Power of We. The biblical basis of this theme is found in the second half of the eighth verse of the tenth chapter of Matthew, “You have been treated generously, so live generously.”

Jesus was commissioning The Twelve to go out among their people to proclaim the Gospel in word and deed.

Part of that commissioning was to remind them of how generous God had been to them, and that they should

“You have been treated generously, so live generously.” – Matthew 10:8b remember this and be generous to those they meet. We gather this year to be reminded of this goodness, the generosity of God toward us. God’s generosity toward us calls us to respond as: Optimistic People—those who live knowing the future is in God’s hands. I’m feeling more of a call to be a witness to a disbelieving world… that God’s will is ever directed toward His children’s good. If we as human parents know how to treat our children right, how much more does God know how to treat us right? Living optimistically is living in a way that communicates to the world that God’s hands are hands we can trust.

Risk Takers—believing in our capacity as the people of God, redeemed and set free by Christ, to be productive in all things. This is a call to live in a way that communicates to everyone that God believes in us enough to trust this ministry into our hands.

It is my prayer that we depart on June 11th with a

Bishop James Swanson, Sr. made remarks during the opening worship.

sense of urgency about being generous people. I pray that we depart with a message to carry home to tell others, “God is generous to me! I can’t help but to live generously!”

Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr.

State of the Conference Address “God Can Fix What Is Broken”

By Timothy Crisler Conference Lay Leader

“We need to focus on the essentials. Just as every human body needs oxygen for life, every human soul needs the life that is given through Jesus Christ.”

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he state of The Mississippi Conference is sound. We are certainly not perfect; we have our struggles and problems. But I believe most of you would agree with me that our Conference is in good shape.

On the other hand, the state of our denomination as a whole, I would say, is stressed. Many would say we are at a breaking point. Some folks say the church is dying. I disagree. The church is not dying. It is not dying because we serve a living God who can fix whatever may be broken. For this reason, we have hope. While I believe we need to understand and deal with certain realities, our situation is not as dire as many are making it out to be. Instead, I believe the current cultural shift can assist

The state of the church address was one of Timothy Crisler’s last speeches as conference lay leader.

us by bringing clarity, helping us better define who we are as a denomination.

Studies reveal that people don’t attend church in the U.S. as they once did. We

don’t have to read the studies; most of us are living it every Sunday morning. Some members have resigned themselves to seeing empty pews in our churches. Some are okay with empty pews. In my opinion, this is the real problem, our sense of complacency and resignation. This is our biggest threat.

We gather at Annual Conferences and the quadrennial General Conference expecting to fix all problems. In the process,

many of us place too much emphasis on the Book of Discipline as the key to fixing The United Methodist Church, while neglecting the real instruction book—the Bible. Our churches cannot solely function by the Book of Discipline. The Discipline is a good tool; it certainly has an important role in governing our denomination, but it should never replace God’s word in our churches on Sunday mornings.

We need to focus on the essentials. Just as every human body needs oxygen for life, every human soul needs the life that is given through Jesus Christ. We need to return to our passion for saving lost souls and broken lives. We need a dose of the passion exhibited by the great evangelists and torch bearers of the Methodist movement, from John Wesley to present:: Continued, Page 5

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Linda Holland displayed the handkerchief she used as a child to hold coins from her dad for church offereing. Her habit for “obedient generosity” started in her early years.

Bishop James Swanson, Sr. blessed communion while assisted by Rev. Allison Dickerson.

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Opening Worship The Widow’s Might: Generosity and Identity

By Tamica Smith Jeuitt

Sr. during the 2016 General Conference.

I

ship of the annual conference ses-

for the North Alabama Annual Confer-

sion, Linda Holland stressed that she

ence. She informed the audience that

would be sharing rather than preaching.

generosity has nothing to do with money

She stated that she was not ordained and

and everything to do with one’s identity

has yet to master the “Swanson Spin” as

in God and Jesus Christ. She referred to

demonstrated by Bishop James Swanson,

Mark 12:41-44 and noted the widow

n a humorous forewarning to those

Holland is the director of connectional

in attendance for the opening wor-

ministry and leadership development

who gave all she had to live on-two small

Carl Tudor received communion from Senatobia District superintendent Jim Genesse.

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“...Generosity has nothing to do with money and everything to do with one’s identity in God and Jesus Christ.”

–Linda Holland, Director of Connectional Ministry and Leadership Development, North Alabama Annual Conference

coins-to honor God. The scripture was

good gifts God provides. She explained as

used to demonstrate her point that as-

this obedience in generosity is faithfully

surance of one’s identity and relationship

practiced, God expands one’s capacity for

with a generous and loving God will lead

giving, and causes a person to experience

to steps of obedience concerning all the

the widow’s might…sacrificial generosity.

With praise, Evelyn Wells enjoyed opening worship.

General Conference Delegates Report The 2016 General Conference report was delivered by Timothy Crisler, laity chair and Mattie Gipson, clergy chair.

By Stephen Sparks

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he General Conference, the top policymaking body of the worldwide 12.3 million-member United Methodist Church, has concluded its work for 2016. The Conference approved some changes to the Discipline and created a commission charged with bringing forth a plan to resolve the church’s 40-plus year struggle over the issue of human sexuality and how our theology in that area affects our polity when it comes to marriage and ordination. This commission, appointed by the Council of Bishops, could lead to a special called General Conference in 2018 or 2019. It preserved all current language and polity around this issue and did not impose a moratorium on charges or trials surrounding this issue. Any changes proposed by the commission would require the approval of a future General Conference whether regularly scheduled or specially called.

Other notable highlights included: • Plans for a new digital version of the hymnal • An increased General Church budget to $604 million • Provisional Central conferences in Rwanda and Southeast Asia/Mongolia • A plan to add five bishops in Africa after the 2020 General Conference • A doubling of the Central Conference Theological Education Fund, to $10 million • The “Special Sunday” formerly known as One Great Hour of Sharing will now be known as United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) Sunday • Two other Special Sundays were added, Women’s Ministry Sunday and Volunteer in Mission Awareness Sunday

• For the first time, a member from outside the U.S., a Liberian, was elected President of the Judicial Council, the church’s top ecclesial court • New relationships with the Moravian Church and the Uniting Church in Sweden were recognized

• A constitutional amendment that provided for the Council of Bishops to now be able to hold fellow Bishops accountable will come before our annual conferences for approval • Withdrawal of The United Methodist Church (and any of its official bodies) from the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, and the repeal of a 40-year-old resolution that supported the decision in Roe v. Wade, the U.S. Supreme Court Case that legalized abortion • A vote to not divest from fossil fuel companies or three companies that do business with Israel

• A number of celebrations, including 60 years of full clergy rights for women, the 200th anniversary of Francis Asbury’s death, the 250th anniversary of John Street Church in New York City, the 30th anniversary of Disciple Bible study, the upcoming 25th anniversary of Africa University and United Methodist Women which soon turns 150 • Allowed for alternative women’s ministries • Affirmed a Mississippi petition that made complainants parties to all just resolutions The 2016 General Conference of The United Methodist Church met in Portland, Oregon, May 10-20, 2016.

2016 General Conference Delegation & 2016 Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference General Conference Delegation Laity • Tim Crisler, Chair • Turner Arant • Ann LaSalle • Ann Harrington • David Beckley • Lauren Sledge, Assistant Secretary Alternates • David Stotts • Bo Gabbert • Connie Walters

Clergy • Rev. Mattie Gipson, Vice-Chair • Rev. Stephen Sparks, Secretary • Rev. Fred Britton • Rev. Zach Beasley • Rev. Mitchell Hedgepeth • Rev. Mike Childs Reserve Delegates • Rev. Bill Beavers • Rev. Leanne Burris • Rev. Jim Genesse

Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference Laity • David Stotts • Bo Gabbert • Connie Walters • Kay Barksdale • Bill Scott • Steve McAlilly

Clergy • Rev. Bob Rambo • Rev. Bill Beavers • Rev. Leanne Burris • Rev. Jim Genesse • Rev. Bryan Collier • Rev. Tim Prather

Reserve Delegates • Yolander Jones • Martin Butler • Brian Jones

Reserve Delegates • Rev. Connie Shelton • Rev. Joe May • Rev. Barry Male

The 2016 Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference opens on Wednesday, July 13 and concludes Friday, July 15.

:: ADDRESS, Page 3

day, Spirit-filled ministries taking place on the African continent and elsewhere. We need to repent of our failure to serve and engage by these examples, and pray for an outpouring of His Holy Spirit. We need to remain spiritually grounded through prayer, Bible study, scripture, witnessing and obedience to His word.

Yes, we are at the breaking point. Your church maybe broken, my church maybe

broken, but I know somebody who can repair what is broken. It is hard sitting back and watching a church, my church, your church, a denomination, our denomination that we love so—break. But this is when we fast and pray and give it to the Man who can fix what is broken. Whatever is the elephant in the room, it should not cause this great denomination of ours to collapse. When we give it to the One who

can mend the brokenness, then our energy and resources can return to our core mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

I challenge you to send it back, if it is broken. Send it back to Jesus so He can fix it.

Isaiah 6:8 says, “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here I am. Send me!’”

n The 2016 Session of the Mississippi Conference ended an eight year term for Timothy Crisler as the Mississippi Conference lay leader. During the Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference in July 2016, Crisler will end his two-year term as the Southeastern Jurisdictional president of conference lay leaders.

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A Learning Opportunity: Pre-Conference Workshops

n addition to the annual conference session, a half-day of pre-conference workshops were offered on Wednesday, June 8. Hundreds of clergy and laity took advantage of learning opportunities. This year’s roster included a list of trainings suggested by congregations’ responses to the 2015

Liturgical dancers from Starkville UMC performed during the workshop Praise His Name in Dance: Starting a Church Praise Dance Ministry.

Pre-conference workshops create opportunities for clergy and laity to access resources and share them with their local churches.

Charge Conference Reports. Churches were asked about their focus to form their faith community. As a result, workshops on evangelism, giving and generosity, shared leadership, small group, missions, and vital worship were presented. There were more than a dozen classes offered.

Pre-conference workshops create opportunities for clergy and laity to

access resources and share them with their local churches. These resources can serve as a compass by giving direction and helping faith communities discern what path they should pursue to help build vital and welcoming congregations.

2016 Pre-Conference Workshops • Evangelism • Giving/Generosity • Shared Leadership • Small Group

• Missions • Vital Worship

Additional Workshops: • Children • Church Marketing: How to Effectively Reach Your Community with UMCOM • Doing No Harm: Advocacy Ministries in the United Methodist Church • Domestic Violence • Faith Community Formation Resources (Mission Insite & Vital Signs) • Communicating Faith in the 21st Century: Using Social Media with UMCOM • First Timers • Generosity 101 • Grants 101 • Praise His Name in Dance: Starting a Church Praise Dance Ministry • Safe Sanctuary • United Methodist Men • “Wake the Sleeping Giant:” Being Relevant and Revitalizing in the Real World!

• Youth

A Celebration of New Faith Communities

By Jane Horstman

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ow has the Holy Spirit been at work at your church?” was the presentation theme by the Faith Community Formation Committee on Thursday, June 9, 2016 at the annual conference session at the Jackson Convention Complex.

“We come together in fellowship at the 2016 Session of the Mississippi Annual Conference, where we celebrate the power and the work of the Holy Spirit in our new church plants and church revitalizations,” enthused the Rev. Raigan Miskelly, chair of the committee.

Whether as a new church plant or a church revitalization, there was a lot to celebrate this year as the Revs.

Corey Truett, pastor of The Well; Leanne Burris, pastor of The Bridge; Wayne Hill, pastor of Crossroads Church; and Jimmy Criddle, pastor of Amory First United Methodist 6 The Circuit Rider :: SPECIAL EDITION

Faith Community Formation committee members from left to right: Corey Truett (The Well), Wayne Hill (Crossroads UMC), Raigan Miskelly (First UMC, Columbus), Jimmy Criddle (First UMC, Amory) and Leanne Burris (The Bridge).

Church, shared stories of how the Holy Spirit has been at work in each of their lives and churches.

“Since its creation in March 2015, the Faith Community Formation Team has been ‘seeking the lost and discipling the found’—finding opportunities to build the Kingdom of God by starting New Places for New People and strengthening and revitalizing existing congregations,” stated the Rev. Tim Thompson, director of Faith Community Formation. “Along with creating vital, sustainable churches, our primary goal is to make disciples for the glory of Jesus Christ.”

The committee challenges Mississippi United Meth-

odists to ask, “How has the Holy Spirit been present and at work in your life?” Are you being called to plant a new faith community? Is your church ready to partner with God’s Spirit to take the next step toward revitalization?

To learn more, plan to attend this year’s Day of Discovery & Discernment, Thursday, August 11, 2016 (10 a.m. - 3 p.m.) at the Eagle Ridge Conference Center in Raymond. For more information and to register, visit www.mississippi-umc.org/FaithCommunities.

Glory Sightings Banquet

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Hosted by The Mississippi United Methodist Foundation

od is at work in Mississippi. On Wednesday June, 8 2016, the Mississippi Annual Conference celebrated vitality in churches, and individuals through an exciting evening of storytelling. Award recipients of Harry Denman, Emma Elzy, Tobias Gibson, and congregations demonstrating vitality were honored at the celebration. The Mississippi Methodist Foundation sponsored the gathering, Glory Sightings Banquet 2016.

• Emma K Elzy Award The Elzy Award encourages reconciliation by honoring an individual, group, or institution that has shown outstanding achievement in race relations in the state of Mississippi. The Rev. Bernard Crump,

posthumous, received this award. Rev. David McCoy accepted this award for Rev. Crump.

Laity: Cristyn Holder Youth: Mary Elizabeth Hilliard • Tobias Gibson Award

• Francis Asbury Award The Francis Asbury Award recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to higher education and campus ministry at the local, district or annual conference level of the church. The Rev. Ricky James received this award.

The Tobias Gibson Award is given to individuals who have made contributions to preservation, collecting, and promoting Methodist history. Henry Scott and Rosemary Scott Ainsworth received this award.

• One Matters Discipleship Award The General Board of Discipleship celebrates the stories of transformation in your annual conference. One person matters to God and matters to us. The One Matters Discipleship Award is intended to celebrate the joy of inviting others into a life with Christ that highlights the journey

• Harry Denman Evangelism Award The Harry Denman Award celebrates the personal evangelism of United Methodist clergy, laity and youth, who make a difference in the lives of people, the church and the community. Clergy: Paul Jeffrey Lawrence

Emma K. Elzy Award

Tobias Gibson Award

Francis Asbury Award

of change they made in order to make disciples, become more vital, and turn their zeros into positive numbers. Crossroads UMC of the Senatobia District received this award.

• Higher Education Merit Award The Higher Education Merit Awards are for United Methodist students attending United Methodist colleges or universities.

Sarah Altman and Lisa Bozeman were the award recipients.

• The Cooper Fund Award This award supports students who plan to enter the full-time professional ministry of The United Methodist Church. :: Continued, Page 8

Harry Denman Evangelism Award

One Matters Discipleship Award The Circuit Rider :: SPECIAL EDITION 7

Conference Confirms New Vital Congregations

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ne of the highlights of the 2016 Session of Annual Conference was the celebration of the new churches to the vital congregations committee (VCC). This team is a discernment body that ensures the ongoing effec­tiveness and oneness of annual conference churches, ministries and committees.

The extended cabinet nominates the membership which is comprised of nine churches (each represented by a pas­tor and a member).

Once the call is accepted, the congregation recommends a pastor and a congregational member with demonstrated leadership ability. The nine vital congregations are divided into three rotating classes.

On Friday, June 10, the latest members elected to the VCC were Coopers Chapel UMC (Meridian), Cedar Lake UMC (Seashore), and Union Grove UMC (Tupelo).

The congregations rolling off the VCC are St. Luke UMC (Greenwood), Mount Pleasant UMC (Seashore), and The Pointe (East Jackson).

The existing congregations are Anderson UMC (West Jackson), Crystal Springs UMC (Brookhaven), Iuka First UMC (New Albany), First UMC, Columbus (Starkville), Trinity UMC (Senatobia), and Parkway Heights UMC (Hattiesburg).

Image from Lightstock

The extended cabinet nominates the membership which is comprised of nine churches. The nine vital congregations are divided in three rotating classes.

:: SIGHTINGS, Page 7

Samantha Gentry, Katherine Giedd, Da’Quonte Miller, Brandon Halford, Lydia Dailey received scholarships.

Samantha Gentry, Katherine Giedd, Da’Quonte Miller, Brandon Halford, and Lydia Dailey were the recipients of this award.

• Generosity Award The Generosity Award was presented to the churches of the Meridian District. They were recognized for the raising 25 percent of their conference mission shares in December 2015. This increased their 2015 giving by nearly 16 percent over 2014.

• Glory Sightings Churches Awards The Glory Sightings Churches awardees were selected based on their vital statistics in the areas of worship attendance, new disciples of Jesus, disciples engaged in small groups, disciples engaged in missions, and generous giving. They were chosen by members of the Cabinet. (The Cabinet provides oversight and direction for the work of the annual conference, districts, and local churches. The Cabinet works as a unit on developing the appointments for the 8 The Circuit Rider :: SPECIAL EDITION

The Meridian District churches received the Generosity Award

Lisa Bozeman, one of the recipients of the Higher Education Merit Award

ministerial members, which are made or fixed by the bishop.)

Brookhaven – Cedar Grove UMC, East Jackson – McLaurin Heights UMC, Greenwood – Revels Memorial UMC, Hattiesburg – Waynesboro First UMC, Meridian

Da’Quonte Miller, one of the recipients of The Cooper Fund Award

– Central UMC, New Albany – Liberty of Booneville UMC, Seashore – Biloxi Heritage UMC, Senatobia – Crossroads UMC, Starkville – Kosciusko Wesley UMC, Tupelo – Belden Charge UMC, West Jackson – Seven Springs UMC

:: SIGHTINGS, Page 8

Glory Sightings: 2016 Vital Churches •

Brookhaven District: Cedar Grove UMC Pastor Dorothy Williams

East Jackson District: McLaurin Heights UMC Pastor Vicki Landrum

Greenwood District: Revels Memorial UMC Pastors, Johnny Davis and Erie Stuckett

Hattiesburg District: Waynesboro First UMC Pastor David Hill

Meridian District: Central UMC Pastors, Jonathan Crabtree, Kristina Crabtree, Dennis Gossett, John Branning, and Robert Peden

New Albany District: Liberty of Booneville UMC Pastor Jimmy Glover

Seashore District: Biloxi Heritage UMC Pastor Sara Bevill

Senatobia District: Crossroads UMC Pastor William Hill

Starkville District: Kosciusko Wesley UMC Pastor Clinton Gipson

Tupelo District: Belden Charge UMC Pastor Debra Lay

West Jackson District: Seven Springs UMC Pastor Robert Cook The Circuit Rider :: SPECIAL EDITION 9

Task Force United to Stop Domestic Violence Submitted by Mississippi Conference Task Force on Domestic Violence

The coalition supports 13 shelter programs that offer services throughout Mississippi and assist victims to find the support they need in their

Domestic Violence Taskforce group, from left, Carl Tudor, Kay Barksdale and Wendy Mahoney.

communities.

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ississippi’s Coalition Against Domestic Violence will support the Bishop’s Task Force on Domestic Violence in preparing clergy and their congregations to face the critical issue of Domestic Violence in our society. The coalition sup-

ports 13 shelter programs that offer services throughout Mississippi and assists victims to find the support they need in their local communities.

Carl Tudor and Kay Barksdale, representatives of the United Methodist Men and United Methodist Women, updated the conference on the task force plans and the addition of the coalition to its resources. Wendy Mahoney, executive director of the coalition, was

introduced Friday morning during the conference session. She also led a pre-conference workshop on domestic violence Wednesday afternoon.

Three workshops to train United Methodist clergy in dealing with domestic violence issues in their congregations and communities have been set for the fall. Clergy may select the workshop they wish to attend. The cost will be $25 per person, which includes CEU certificate and lunch. The schedule will be 8:30 a.m. check-in, with workshop training from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Clergy may register online at www.mississippi-umc.org/stopdomesticviolence.

Training sites and dates are Tuesday, Sept. 27, at St. Andrew’s UMC in Oxford; Thursday, Oct. 20, at Moore Community Center in Biloxi; and Tuesday, Oct. 25, at Crossgates UMC in Brandon.

According to Wendy Mahoney, domestic violence is a pervasive, life-threatening crime that affects millions of individuals across the United States regardless of age, economic status, race, religion, or education.

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Mississippi-Africa University Partnership A message from the Co-chairs, Jimmy Carr and Martha Scarborough

W

hen Bishop James Swanson, Sr. announced that the Mississippi-Africa University Partnership was to be the Mississippi Conference Mission Offering for 2015 and 2016, a goal was set to raise $1 million to $1.3 million to be used for building up the endowment of Africa University. The 2015 offering and commitments were over $700,000.

Local churches and districts all over the Mississippi Conference have continued to step up to the challenge of supporting the ministry of higher education in Africa into the future. As the Mission Offering is received this year, we are confident we will easily make the $1 million goal and will surely surpass it, moving toward the $1.3 million challenge. After the 2016 Mission Offering is presented on Thursday, we will compile our total cash gifts and commitments made and report to the Conference at the Saturday morning plenary at 8:30.

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Ushers prepare to receive the mission offering for Africa University.

We expect there to be great rejoicing!

A special word of appreciation is expressed to the Mississippi—Africa University Partnership team: • Honorary Chairs – Rev. Dr. Joe May and Dr. Aubrey Lucas • Members – Sheila Cumbest, Timothy

Crisler, Stephen Cook, Cheryl Denley, David Ishee, Cynthia Cross, Henderson Rasberry (deceased), and Connie Shelton • Africa University staff, Lloyd Rollins We want to express appreciation to all Mississippi Conference staff especially the staff of connectional ministries and the

Mississippi Conference Launch Imagine No Malaria Campaign

he launch of the Mississippi Conference’s Imagine No Malaria campaign led by Bishop James E. Swanson, Sr., was after press time. In the last hours of the 2016 annual conference session, Swanson announced the conference would be contributing to The United Methodist Church Imagine No Malaria campaign. The UMC goal to raise $75 million to eradicate malaria in places like Sub-

Sahara Africa started in 2008. The funds cover the cost for prevention (bed nets), education, communication and treatment.

Swanson also introduced Charity Gordon as the field coordinator of the Mississippi operation.

Gil Hanke, General Secretary of United Methodist Men preached during the Mission Service.

episcopal office, Cheryl Denley for organizing the Africa University Choir tour, the many local churches and pastors and staff members who have been involved, Bishop and Mrs. Swanson, and Dr. Jim Salley with the Africa University Office of Development.

we GUIDE You

GROW Healthy money management is a sign of a healthy church.

We offer many services for financial solvency and growth.

Photo above: Disguised as a giant mosquito, Jason White helped promote Imagine No Malaria initiative.

Charity Gordon (left) is the field coordinator for the Mississippi Imagine No Malaria campaign.

Contact us to see how we can help your church be healthier financially.

ms-umf.org MISSISSIPPI UNITED METHODIST FOUNDATION The Circuit Rider :: SPECIAL EDITION 11

2016 Annual Conference PhotoFile

The director of Canton UMC led them in singing “I Give Myself Away.”

The Mendenhall UMC youth orchestra performed at Glory Sightings banquet.

The Mississippi Conference endorsed Rev. Stephen Sparks as a candidate for the office of bishop.

Mrs. Swanson and Bishop Swanson celebrated their 30 year wedding anniversary the week of annual conference.

Mike Howington was full of excitement during his report on student ministries.

Angels of Praise from Hattiesburg danced to “Break Every Chain” at annual conference.

Vito Vella from Methodist Senior Services checks the blood pressure of John Moore.

United Methodist Men Mississippi president Andy Tentoni addresses the UMM session.

Bishop Swanson pictured with clergy celebrating 50 years of service.

From left, Dr. Marion Taylor, Megan Ducker, Kathleen Smith, Kristy Murden and Carol Anne Nail.

Artist Cristen Barnard of Senatobia creates “Child Praising Jesus.”

Moms Mabley clean comedy act during the laity luncheon.

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An

nu Mi 28 al ssi th Co ssi nf pp er i en ce

District superintendents Cynthia Cross and Rusty Keen Celebrating 150 years of service, the world renowned enthusiastically worshiped.

Rust College A ‘Capella Choir performed. Rust is supported by the conference.

Oxford University UMC praise band lead opening worship.

Co-chairs of the annual conference session Dr. Dora Washington and Rev. Andy Stoddard welcomed delegates.

Maddie and Haley Gall of Madison UMC provide music during Friday morning Bible study.

Rev. Trey Harper set the bar for the 2016 conference session.

David Stotts, conference treasurer, gave directions for using messaging applications for financial contributions.

Rev. Tim Thompson, Bishop James Swanson, Sr., and Rev. Trey Harper shared a laugh during the evening’s plenary session.

With enthusiasm, the Rev. Larry Hilliard responded to a question from a workshop participant. Rev. Ken Carter looked on.

Mellie Jordan, new Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Light-hearted down time for Bishop Swanson and Heather Hensarling. the Mississippi Conference reported to delegates.

NEXUS 2016 was a spot to make new friends. Madison, Sora, and Brittany connected.

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Service of Ordination and Commissioning

he call to ministry is between the individual and God. On Friday, June 10, there was singing, praying and celebrating for the men and women commissioned and ordained for the work of ministry. Called to be servants, these individuals will now go out to proclaim and live out the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Associate Member: Troy Anthony Piccagula

Commissioning: Eugene Venable Bramlett, Jr. Katherine Helen Butler Charles Andrew Collette Laura Michelle Galambos Kelvin Dwayne Mayo James Sanders McClurkan John Ryan McGough Michael-John Pope

Jeffery Paul Walton Abraham David Zimmerman

Ordination as Elder: Anthony Alexander Ashford Chadwick Alan Bowen Paulette Buford Ella Hall DeDeaux Lavert Fitzpatrick Dennis Christopher Gossett Erin Nichole Grant Daniel Gordon Herring Austin Charles Taylor Hoyle John Wesley Leek Charles Kenneth McGill, II Jeffrey Myron Tollison Jonathan Corey Truett Dexter Erwin Ware

Associate Member Ordination as Elder

(Names are not in order as pictured.)

Clergy Celebrating 50 Years • Taze Russell Fletcher • Travis Rokland Fulton • Lone Joe Hallberg • Walter Camp Hughley (posthumous) • Reynolds Felton Johnson • Thomas Jerry Mitchell • George C. Jackson, Jr.

Commissioning

Celebration of Retirees

By Rev. Larry Hilliard

it all, God has used each of these ministers to multiply the Kingdom.

May we join together and give thanks to God for our 2016 retirees for faithfully answering and serving the call. Praise God!

O

ne of my favorite theologians is credited with saying, “Don’t cry because it’s over.

Smile because it happened.” – Dr. Seuss.

One of the most bittersweet times we have at Annual Conference is when we have the opportunity to celebrate our retirees. These are faithful Disciples of Christ who have made the world better and served as pastors, counselors, teachers, chaplains, district superintendents— and most important of all­—as faithful followers of Jesus Christ. We know that official retirement is not the end. Some will continue to serve vocationally. All will continue to witness the love of God that came to the world through Christ Jesus.

Our 2016 retirees represent some 514 years of faithful ministry. Imagine! How many lives were changed,

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2016 Retirees

2016 Retirees and Spouses souls saved and work done for God’s kingdom? We are grateful for their service, for as we know, the life of a minister is hardly easy. These men and women of God have shepherded families and congregations through times of great difficulty and great celebration. Through

• Elders - Ever Jean Burt, James Richard Curtis, Stephen Alan Devore, Stephen Grady Dial, Roderick Elliot Dickson-Rishel, Barry Dale Dickerson, Vicki Loflin Johnson, Eddie Lee Jones, Cyrus Ray Owens, Robert Earl Pittman, Samuel Andrew Ray, James Williams Richardson, James Melvin Salter, Deanna Smith, Bruce Lynn Taylor, Gene Ford Vance, Rebecca Carol Youngblood • Local Pastors - Roy Graphenreed, Richard Handy, Walter Raymond Myers, Sr., Claude Raine, Paul Raley, David Wilson, Diana Woodall

The Unity of Faith The Right Rev. Bishop Brian Seage of the Episcopal Dio-

them to Christ as His body. When people reach out to the

cese of Mississippi was the guest speaker during the Ser-

world at large, they do so as the body of Christ and as par-

vice of Ordination and Commissioning. His sermon title

ticipants in the Jesus movement. They reach out as mis-

was ”The “Unity of Faith.” Seage explained that people are

sionaries to connect others to the body of Christ as part of

held together and find unity as people by their Christian

Jesus’ movement in the 21st century.

faith. The ligaments of the human body connect and keep

Bishop Brian Seage is the 10th bishop of the Mississippi Episcopal Diocese.

their body parts physically connected. Their faith connects

Memorial Service at Annual Conference

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Friday, June 10, 2016

Acolytes during the Memorial Service.

“These preachers and spouses who have for many

years surrendered themselves and gave themselves

away in ministry, did so time and time again at great

sacrifice in their lives…Thanksgiving and remembrance for these lives that still speak to us today.”

– Bishop James Swanson, Sr.

2016 Deceased Clergy, Clergy Spouses & Minor Children From May 9, 2015 to May 14, 2016 Clergy • Sale Trice Lilly, Jr...................................................May 18, 2015 • Felix Asa Sutphin................................................May 19, 2015 • Billy Ernest Develin..............................................June 2, 2015 • Clayton Henderson Rasberry..........................June 2, 2015 • Thomas Edward Hasselle...............................June 10, 2015 • Tommy Dee Gilbert..........................................June 17, 2015 • William Clay Farr.................................................June 30, 2015 • Arvah Eugene Dyess..........................................July 10, 2015 • Billy Quay McCord...............................................July 14, 2015 • Loyd Versie Calcote............................................Aug. 10, 2015 • Lee P. Roberts.......................................................Aug. 25, 2015 • George Adrum Pugh........................................Aug. 31, 2015 • Charles Eldred Swain.......................................Sept. 24, 2015 • Rogers Walker.....................................................Sept. 24, 2015 • William Robert Lampkin.................................Sept. 30, 2015 • Warren Eugene Pittman.....................................Nov. 4, 2015 • William Bernard Crump...................................Nov. 17, 2015

• Brian T. Scarbrough................................................Jan. 3, 2016 • Clovis Gene Butts................................................ Jan. 14, 2016 • Thomas Roy Sheffield........................................ Jan. 30, 2016 • Sam Hawkins, Sr...................................................... Feb. 8, 2016 • Jackie Holmes.......................................................Feb. 21, 2016 • Robert Thomas Woodard............................March 12, 2016 • Rex Alman, Jr.....................................................March 28, 2016 • Walter Camp Hughley.........................................May 5, 2016 • Eugene Covington.............................................May 10, 2016 • Jerry Hinton..........................................................May 14, 2016

Spouses of Clergy (Spouse of deceased italicized)

• Lynn Burnett Marshall E. Burnett, Jr. July 5, 2015 • Donald Price Kathy Anne Price Aug. 30, 2015 • Mary Louise Chaney Gerald Allen Chaney Sept. 28, 2015 • Lois Earnest Charles Ed Earnest Sept. 29, 2015

• Beverly Houston William Reed Houston Oct. 16, 2015 • May Evelyn Ray Crawford Love Ray Oct. 20, 2015 • Frances Bridges Lewis Bridges Nov. 22, 2015 • Claudine Ainsworth W Earl Ainsworth Jan. 5, 2016 • Ellen S. Givens Roy A. Givens, Sr. Jan. 20, 2016 • Naomi Williamson James A. Williamson Jan. 26, 2016 • Florida B. Newell Wisdom Newell Feb. 24, 2016 • Robert E. Elliott Diane Moore Elliott Feb. 28, 2016 • Elvia L. Walley C. Nelson Walley March 3, 2016 • Carmelite Judge James Ray Judge March 8, 2016 • Callie Elsie Peden Milton Jay Peden March 16, 2016 • Mary Margie Phillips Burnell Phillips April 7, 2016 • Cynthia L. Assink Michael Lynn Assink April 13, 2016 • Betty Jane Conner Currey George T. Currey Sr. April 18, 2016 • Evelyn H. Edge Clarence Duane Edge May 2, 2016

The Circuit Rider :: SPECIAL EDITION 15

Honoring A Servant Rev. Lindsey Robinson preaches in memory of the late Delmar Robinson.

Le Jeune Commissioned as Deaconess At the Friday morning business session at the 2016 Annual Conference, Jamie Lynn Marie Le Jeune (pictured above, center) was commissioned as a deaconess by Bishop James Swanson, Sr. Le Jeune, a member of Court Street UMC in Hattiesburg, was also able to participate in a consecration ceremony at General Conference 2016 in Portland.

Being consecrated at General Conference was beautiful and moving, Le Jeune said. “Even though there was disagreement about issues, the ability

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to holy conference, and how the Holy Spirit was able to move, was a truly awesome thing to witness.”

Le Jeune is a mother of three adopted children, two of whom are autistic.

She is passionate about providing art therapy to children who are disabled or disenfranchised, and this has helped to shape and guide her ministry path.

“I plan to continue to build my art therapy ministry at Court Street UMC and whatever else I feel God is calling me to do,” she said.

In memory of Delmar Robinson, a candle was lit during the Friday morning Bible study at annual conference. Robinson was scheduled to lead the class but passed away on May 18.

His pastor, Rev. Lindsey Robinson carried on in his place. Robinson was a member of The Rev. Delmar Robinson United Methodist Church for over 56 years, serving in five different local churches and in four annual conferences, mainly in finance positions. He was 78 and a member of St. Paul UMC in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Performing: The Miracles

T

Musically-gifted Singers Create Magic

he Miracles are a select group of singers chosen from the most musically-gifted members who live at The Baddour Center, a magical place where men and women with intellectual disabilities have the opportunity to build productive, meaningful lives despite their challenges. The center is also supported by The United Methodist Church.

The Miracles travel across the United States to express their faith through music, bridging attitudinal barriers that may exist towards adults with intellectual disabilities. On Thursday, June 9, the choir performed three songs for the annual conference, “Come, Now Is the Time to Worship,” “Wonderful Cross,” and “When God Ran.” For simply doing what they do, The Miracles received a standing ovation.

MISSISSIPPI UNITED METHODIST FOUNDATION 16 The Circuit Rider :: SPECIAL EDITION

The singing performance by The Miracles had delegates on their feet.

“We are simply doing what we normally do.

That is, we sing to God for His glory and hopefully we point everyone to God to do the same.”

–John Matlach, manager of choral performance for The Miracles

Youth “Knock ‘em Out” at NEXUS

The Iceman impressed the young people by bending a skillet (above) and an iron rod (right).

By Tamica Smith Jeuitt

K

“

nock ‘Em Out” was the theme for NEXUS, the youth event held during the annual conference session. The theme defined the idea that youth are bold and strong for Christ and are unafraid to fight through adversities in their lives.

Guest speakers Rev. Cordell Sims and Christian spoken word-poet known simply as “Lo,” emphasized the topic through their upbeat approach that has made them popular among Mississippi’s youngest United Methodists. Perhaps the most interesting presentation was an illustration from J.D. “The Iceman” Anderson who

used his strength to drive home the message. His act included ripping a phone book in half, splitting a metal car plate with his teeth, and using one hand to squeeze open a soft drink can. Anderson has made appearances on America’s Got Talent, Jay Leno, and Guinness World Records as well as many other TV shows around the world.

In his strongman show, Anderson talked about learning at an early age that nothing would be handed to him and that if he wanted something, he would have to work for it. Doing manual labor most of his life, he developed a strong work ethic that made him stand out from the crowd. He began working out at 16 years of age, the

same year that he gave his heart to Jesus Christ.

Worship was led by the Matt King Band, whose impact on the youth was just as powerful as the previous year, and many students made decisions to stand for Christ.

NEXUS is a one-day event planned and designed by the Conference Council on Youth Ministry (CCYM).

Organizers were prayerful that the roughly 200 attendees would walk away from the event more equipped to “Knock ‘Em Out.”

The Zone

The Zone was a new hangout option for Mississippi Conference youth attending the Session of the Mississippi Annual Conference at the Jackson Convention Center.

Two rooms were converted into an arcade retreat with adult supervision. The Zone was free for those 12 years old and older.

Mike Howington, Mississippi Conference youth and family ministry coordinator said the area would allow the older children freedom to exhibit their self-sufficiency while their parents attended the conference.

The youth lifted praises during worship at Nexus 2016.

The Zone, from left, Caine Varnell, Lo Aman, John Newton and Daniel Youngblood.

The Circuit Rider :: SPECIAL EDITION 17

Snapshots from the 2016 Annual Conference Session

•

For each pastor named during the Memorial Service the bell was rung.

Conference lay leader Timothy Crisler honored for service years pictured with LaToya Redd Thompson and Martin Butler.

Rev. Susannah Grubbs-Carr gives the Advocacy Ministries report. From left, Carr, Rev. Raigan Miskelly, Rev. Eric Pridmore, Rev. Rick Brooks and Rev. Bruce Case.

Africa University staff Lloyd Rollins and Jim Salley with Jimmy Carr co-chair of the Mississippi-Africa University Partnership.

The Rev. Kerry Powell pointed out several notes during his presentation on shared leadership.

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Visiting from New York, Patricia Magyar of Global Ministries informed the conference about the next initiative: Abundant Health for All.

Karsyn colored a picture and Zoe worked with playdough at the session with delegates nearby.

Dr. Jack Ewing, executive director of Lake Junaluska greets the conference.

Ending leadership roles for the conference, from left to right: Martin Butler, Sarah Lloyd , Kay Barksdale, James Herrod, and Timothy Crisler.

MISSISSIPPI UNITED METHODIST FOUNDATION 18 The Circuit Rider :: SPECIAL EDITION

At the commissioning ceremony, bishops, James Swanson, Sr., Brian Seage, and Clay Lee, lay hands on candidates.

Congratulations

The Mississippi BMCR Congratulates Rust College on 150 years of service to the Nation and The United Methodist Church.

••• For a free year membership to BMCR contact us at revlovett@hotmail.com or www.bmcrms.org.

Congratulations on your retirement

Andy & Katherine Ray 

With much love from your Senatobia District Family

Rev. Dexter Ware on your ordination from Harrisville UMC & Rexford UMC Matthew 28:19-20

Stay Connected.

Highlighting all of the latest news from around the Mississippi Conference For more information go to www.mississippi-umc.org/thecircuitrider

The Circuit Rider :: SPECIAL EDITION 19

LONG LOST MANUSCRIPTS PUBLISHED

HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI METHODISM VOL. III & IV 1846-1869

by John Griffing Jones Published by Mississippi Conference Commission on Archives and History

NOW AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE For more information contact | Mississippi Conference Office | 601-354-0515 J.B. Cain Archives at Millsaps College | 601-974-1077 | archives@millsaps.edu

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“Millsaps has been the best experience of my life.

The culture of Millsaps is one that truly challenges you to become a wholesome, well-rounded individual despite your difference in religious beliefs.”

–BENTON BROWN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, CLASS OF 2017 | NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

“I didn’t want to go to just any college affiliated with the United Methodist Church...I wanted to go to Millsaps because of how Millsaps is United Methodist.”

–KATHARINE HENRY RELIGIOUS STUDIES, CLASS OF 2017 | LA CANADA FLINTRIDGE, CALIFORNIA

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The Circuit Rider :: SPECIAL EDITION 21

22 The Circuit Rider :: SPECIAL EDITION

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662-844-8977 • www.mss.org The Circuit Rider :: SPECIAL EDITION 23

A SPECIAL OFFERING FOR

Methodist Children's Homes is phasing out of the apportionments from the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church.

We need your help to promote and educate your congregation on the children's home and the special offering. 100% of the money collected from the Special Offering will fund our programs helping foster children and families.

Learn

Visit www.mchms.org to learn about how you can be involved with the children’s home.

December 11, 2016

Share

Share the campaign materials in person and online to your friends. Your support helps us create momentum!

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All year, you can text LIGHT to 50155 to support our work.

The big day is December 11, 2016, and every donation helps!