The Circuit Rider Souvenir Journal Summer 2023

MISSISSIPPI CONFERENCE,

I’m excited about my first annual conference session as your bishop and as I am traveling the state, I’ve been inspired by your desire to fulfill the Great Commission. Be encouraged as we all embark on this journey together and “Take Jesus to the Streets!”

Peace and blessings,

BISHOP SHARMA D. LEWIS Bishop in Residence Mississippi Episcopal Area

Take Streets JESUS To The

Bishop Lewis interacts with attendee of Seashore and Hattiesburg Districts Chat and Chew.

Cover photo courtesy of

Jasmine Haynes, MMC, APR Editor-in-Chief

jhaynes@mississippi-umc.org

Letter from the Editor

THERE IS MUCH FEAR AROUND CHANGE and the unknown in the world today and that fear is now influencing people of faith and the church. We often forget that growth rarely happens in our comfort zones, and that in order to be triumphant one must face a trial that changes and challenges business as usual. God is doing what He has always done and that is parting the Red Seas in our lives and providing paths to move forward and walk into the plentiful Promised Lands He has for us. God pushed back the tides of a global pandemic and made a highway to explore new approaches to make disciples and meeting people wherever they are— online or in person.

This year’s souvenir journal is a celebration of the resilience and resolve of the Mississippi Conference with Moving Forward in Making Disciples in the face of many changes throughout our connection,

communities and congregations. This issue is an invitation to be encouraged by disaster response efforts for people whose lives were changed forever by tornadoes and other inclement weather. Be hungry daily for the Living Word and opportunities to live it out. Be inspired by the steadfastness of our connectional ministries. Be committed to engage in prayer and discernment about strategic planning for our conference’s collective mission.

Lastly, be excited for the opportunities that change brings to walk by faith, knowing that the ever-present, all-knowing and all-powerful God orders our steps on this path to “therefore, go and make disciples,” and that come what may, He’ll be with us—“always, to the end of the age.”

Peace and blessings,

Jasmine Haynes

THIS YEAR’S SOUVENIR JOURNAL IS A CELEBRATION OF THE RESILIENCE AND RESOLVE OF THE MISSISSIPPI CONFERENCE...

Bishop Lewis prays with laity at the East and West Jackson Districts Chat and Chew.

Youth attending 2023’s The Gathering make friends while participating in worship and spiritual formation.

Photos courtesy of Mississippi Conference Office of Connectional Ministries and Communications

Students from “The Barn,” the Wesley Foundation of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC), create United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) flood buckets for disaster response.

Ways to Stay Connected to the Conference

Looking for ways to stay connected to the Mississippi Conference? Follow, like or opt-in to any of the options below to receive tips, updates and ministry resources from the Mississippi Conference:

The Mississippi United Methodist Conference

https://bit.ly/2lbVpLm

Bishop Sharma D. Lewis

https://bit.ly/BishopLewis

MS Conference Youth and Families

Rev. Dr. Raigan Miskelly, New Albany District Superintendent, offers Communion during worship at the Tupelo and New Albany Districts Chat and Chew.

The Circuit Rider

Souvenir Journal

PUBLISHER Mississippi Conference Communications

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Jasmine Haynes

ART DIRECTOR/GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Cindy W. Clark

EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATION

Rev. Vickie White

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Matthew Johnson

SUMMER 2023

http://bit.ly/2dHPNYc

@Mississippi_UMC

https://twitter.com/Mississippi_UMC

Mississippi Conference

https://bit.ly/2JVqnma

Mississippi United Methodist Conference

https://bit.ly/2rpHWD7

Sign Up Now!

Sign up for e-news updates, which includes The Circuit Rider

http://bit.ly/opt-in4

Photo courtesy of Heidi Adams

Welcome to the 2023 Session of the Mississippi Annual Conference!

DDEAR SISTERS AND BROTHERS IN THE MISSISSIPPI ANNUAL CONFERENCE,

I believe that annual conference resembles qualities of a family reunion. We gather for fellowship, worship and several meals around the table. I would like to take the opportunity to thank the Mississippi Annual Conference Planning Team and the Cadence Bank Arena Staff for their hard work and excellent hospitality as we prepare for my first annual conference on June 27-30, 2023, in Tupelo, Mississippi.

Our theme “Moving Forward in Making Disciples,” is guided by the biblical passage found in Matthew 28:19-20 NIV, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

I am very blessed to preach the opening, closing and the ordering of ministry services this year. In addition, I want to thank Rev. Sandra Brown and Rev. Dr. Stephen T. Cook, who will preach the memorial and mission services respectively.

On Wednesday, June 28, we will vote to ratify the United Methodist churches that will be disaffiliating from the Mississippi Annual Conference. As I stated in my Disaffiliation Update on January 11, 2023 (https://bit.ly/Jan11letter), “as your new resident bishop my desire is for everyone to remain in the Wesleyan family. However, I do understand that for several reasons faith communities, clergy and laity are desiring to leave. The Bible records in Ecclesiastes 3:1, ‘To everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven.’ Therefore, I believe that after a faith community, clergyperson or laity discerns another pathway, they must follow it and be obedient to our Lord and Savior.” Following the vote there will be a service of blessing and Communion to bless individuals and faith communities to be where God calls them to be in this season.

On Thursday, June 29, we will host a Mississippi Annual Conference “Take Jesus to the Streets” Block Party with food, fellowship and fun! I’m encouraging us as an annual conference to come out and share the love of Jesus Christ with the Tupelo community!

This year our annual conference mission offering will support the disaster response efforts here in Mississippi and abroad. Please continue to keep the annual conference gathering in your prayers! May the Holy Spirit guide us as we seek to answer God’s call. I’m looking forward to meeting you in Tupelo!

Peace and Blessings, Bishop

Sharma D. Lewis

Photo of Bishop Lewis courtesy of Joe Ellis Photography, LLC

19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.

Moving Forward IN Making Disciples

2023 Session of the Mississippi Annual Conference Agenda

This is a tentative agenda. Event details are subject to change. Visit the 2023 Session of the Mississippi Conference app for the latest updates.

Brown, preaching

Rev. Dr. Stephen Cook, preaching (Mission Offering to go toward Disaster Response in Mississippi and Internationally)

p.m.-8:00 p.m. Take Jesus to the Streets Block Party at Fairpark (food trucks on-site)

Friday, June 30, 2023

Closing Worship Bishop Sharma D. Lewis, preaching

The Vision of The Mississippi Annual Conference

The Mississippi Annual Conference-empowered by love, generosity, justice and apprenticeship-forms spiritual leaders, faith communities and connections so more disciples of Jesus Christ transform the world.

2023 Session Annual Conference Speakers

BISHOP SHARMA D. LEWIS

Episcopal Leader of the Mississippi Area

Preaching A Service of Celebration and The Ordering of Ministry

Tuesday, June 27, 7:00 p.m.

Preaching Service of Blessing and Communion

Wednesday, June 28, 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Preaching Closing Worship

Friday, June 30, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Bishop Lewis was born and raised in Statesboro, Ga. in a loving Methodist family. She comes to Mississippi after having served the past six years in the Richmond area of the Virginia Annual Conference. She was the first African American woman to be elected bishop in the Southeastern Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church in 2016.

Prior to her election in 2016, she held a distinguished record of service in the North Georgia Conference serving as a district superintendent of the Atlanta-Decatur-Oxford District, pastor at Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, associate pastor of the 8,000-member Ben Hill United Methodist Church in Atlanta and as senior pastor of the Powers Ferry UMC, a cross-racial assignment in Marietta, Ga.

Bishop Lewis offers her gifts to The United Methodist Church in a variety of ways. She sits on the board of multiple United Methodist seminaries, and as a key member of organizations supporting women and African Americans in ministry. She is also the author of two Lenten studies—“Journey to Transformation” and “Struggle to the Cross.”

Bishop Lewis is a graduate of Mercer University, the University of West Georgia and Gammon Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center.

REV. SANDRA BROWN

Pastor and Ordained Deacon in the Mississippi Conference

Preaching Memorial Service

Thursday, June 29, 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Rev. Sandra Brown is an ordained United Methodist Deacon in full connection and serves as pastor of First United Methodist Church in Macon and Shuqualak United Methodist Church in Shuqualak.

In addition to her role as pastor, Brown serves on the bishop’s episcopacy committee, the bishop’s transition team, the Starkville District’s committee on ministry and the Starkville District’s Leadership Team. She is also a spiritual director in the Starkville district. Brown will soon serve as a Civil Air Patrol Chaplin and as a spiritual director for Kairos Outside Prison Ministry.

Brown received her seminary certification at Garret Evangelical Seminary and has also taken courses at Asbury Theological Seminary and Memphis Theological Seminary. She completed spiritual direction certification through the Journey Partners program at Millsaps College.

Among Brown’s most cherished blessings are her family which include: her daughter, Glenn Brown; sister, Penny Beaty; niece, Kathryn Phillips; nephew, Henry Gunter and faithful labrador, Rory.

Bishop Sharma D. Lewis

Rev. Sandra Brown

Rev. Dr. Stephen Cook

REV. DR. STEPHEN COOK East/West Jackson District Superintendent

Preaching Mission Service

Thursday, June 29, 5:30-8:00 p.m.

Rev. Dr. Stephen Cook is a native of Carrollton, Miss. and lifelong Methodist who has served in the Mississippi United Methodist Conference since 1993.

Cook is currently the East/West Jackson district superintendent and the outgoing dean of the cabinet. He has also served as a senior pastor in Greenville and Jackson.

Cook holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Mississippi State University and a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry from Memphis Theological Seminary.

Cook is married to Erma Robinson-Cook, and they share two daughters, Endia and Sylvia (Josh). In his spare time Cook enjoys reading, jogging and watching sports.

Download the 2023 Session of AC App!

Access the most up-to-date information about our event including schedules, a preliminary agenda, maps and much more. You can download the app at https://bit.ly/ MSUMCapp or scan the QR code below.

Hope-filled Steps Towards Making Disciples

HOW DO WE MOVE FORWARD MAKING disciples?

Steadily, strategically and with great hope, and that’s exactly what we have been doing.

One of numerous seats I am privileged to sit in as conference lay leader is as an ex officio member of our Mississippi Annual Conference Vital Congregations Committee (VCC). On that committee, a clergy and lay representative from nine churches meet along with the director of connectional ministries and communications, the conference lay leader and a district superintendent designated by the bishop. One of the tasks of that committee is to annually review the church reports from each local church’s charge conference documents and to attempt to identify trends as a sort of meter of how our churches are doing—what issues we are facing and achievements we are making.

When we reviewed the charge conference documents from 2022, we noted that some churches are still recovering from COVID. Some people have not returned. Some activities have not resumed. Life has changed, and some of our churches are really mourning that. As a committee, we read that, and we mourned with you.

However, we also saw, to our delight, that many churches reported finding ways to continue outreach ministries during the COVID-19 pandemic; resuming ministries they had to stop during the pandemic; finding new ways to do previous ministries and creating new ministries to accommodate the needs present in their new context. Some churches were able to continue programs, such as food pantries,

through the pandemic at a time when people really needed assistance. Some churches eagerly resumed their outreach and their in-person church events when the pandemic lessened. Many churches adopted live streaming as a necessity when congregants could not gather safely in person and then realized what a great tool it is to achieve a wider reach and are continuing to live stream service even now after it is safe to resume in-person service. In some communities, it no longer suits people’s lifestyles to physically come to the church for everything. So, we saw several churches who continue to hold virtual prayer gatherings.

The work of the VCC always lifts my spirit. However, in this time when we face some uncertainty, it was an especially beautiful gift for the committee members to see for ourselves how, despite a global pandemic that prevented us from being physically together as normal, God has continued to inspire His people with creative ways to share the good news and love on each other and to work through our hands and feet. After seeing the length and the breadth of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resilience of our churches, I am so hopeful that God will lead us through any future phases of uncertainty with the same creativity and provision that he continues to lead us with through the aftermath of the pandemic and other challenging circumstances. Keep your head up, Mississippi Conference. God is with us and lives through us and continues to work through us to touch others.

In this time when we face some uncertainty... God has continued to inspire His people with creative ways to share the good news and love each other and to work through our hands and feet.

Photo of LaToya Redd Thompson by Greg Campbell Photography, Inc.

LaToya Redd Thompson Mississippi Conference Lay Leader

District Realignment Task Force Suggests New Way Forward

By Matthew Johnson

Conference Connectional Ministries and Communications Assistant

OON MARCH 20, 2023, THE Mississippi Conference District Realignment Task Force, DRT, announced their recommendation that the Mississippi Conference move forward with seven districts instead of the current 11 districts. The decision was the result of an 18-month evaluation of the current conference structure, district operations and the number of churches who are remaining

United Methodist. The task force will present their findings at the 2023 Session of the Mississippi Annual Conference for a full conference vote.

The district realignment task force formed in April 2021 to find the answer to two primary questions:

1. What do local churches need most from their district superintendent?

2. What do local churches need most from their district office?

Now that the conference has fewer churches due to disaffiliations and church closures, reducing the number of districts is the recommended way forward for the most efficient use of resources.

Mississippi

The work was much needed as the last realignment took place in the early 1990s when the conference had more than 1,300 churches. Now that the conference has fewer churches due to disaffiliations and church closures, reducing the number of districts is the recommended way forward for the most efficient use of resources.

Retired elder and former district superintendent, Rev. Mike Hicks is a member of the district realignment task force. Here he explains the purpose of the task force’s conclusion.

“The purpose of the reduction of districts is to create more efficiency in the system while supporting the work and making disciples,” said Hicks. “This decision took time and a lot of prayer and study. We believe this is the best path forward for the Mississippi Conference.”

See New Way Forward, page 28

Retired district superintendent, Rev. Mike Hicks, right, and conference lay leader, LaToya Thompson, left.

Rev. Mike Hicks, left, Rev. Emily Sanford, second from left, LaToya Thompson, second from right, and Rev. Dr. Stephen Cook host an informational webinar on the report of the DRT.

““The purpose of the reduction of districts is to create more efficiency in the system while supporting the work and making disciples.” – Rev. Mike Hicks

“The reduction of districts will provide an opportunity for laity to be more fully involved. They will have better understanding of how their district operates and be able to grow in their service to the district and conference.”

– Vera Thomas, Seashore District Lay Leader

Mission Focus ] Disaster Recovery

By Matthew Johnson Mississippi Conference Connectional Ministries and Communications Assistant

TTHIS YEAR’S MISSION OFFERING SUPPORTS

United Methodist disaster response in Mississippi and abroad. In the aftermath of disasters, Methodist churches, ministries and volunteers have been answering the call to be the hands and feet of Christ for survivors during the most difficult times of their lives. With the help of your generosity, recovery mission ministries like the United Methodist Committee on Relief, UMCOR, and United Methodist Volunteers in Mission, UMVIM, can help fulfill the needs of brothers and sisters in Christ.

Mississippi Conference Disaster Response

Losing homes, family members or property because of a natural disaster is a daunting and stressful situation for survivors who are left behind to pick up the pieces. Mississippi disaster response goes into disaster communities as quickly as possible after it is deemed safe by first responders. Their main goal is to go above and beyond providing a caring response for survivors.

UMCOR workers begin repairs to a home in Rolling Fork.

“As United Methodist disaster response we want to be the presence of Christ and showcase the love of Christ to the survivors.”

– Rev. Frank Newell

Rev. Frank Newell, the new conference associate director for UMCOR and UMVIM, describes the mission of Mississippi Conference disaster response.

“As United Methodist disaster response we want to be the presence of Christ and showcase the love of Christ to the survivors,” said Newell. “We want to be present with survivors. Whether it’s tarping a house, moving debris or just providing a listening ear for a survivor to tell their survival story.”

In the last year, Mississippi disaster response has been instrumental in meeting the needs of some of the hardest hit residents of the state including:

• Disaster response volunteers from across the state organized water delivery and volunteers to distribute water to elderly and disabled residents during the Jackson water crisis.

See Disaster Recovery, page 31

Photos above: (top left) Rev. Frank Newell, right, surveys damage to a home in Amory. (top right) Oxford UMC hosts an ERT training. (lower left) People in the Mitwaba district of North Katanga, Democratic Republic of Congo, DRC, receive relief supplies from UMCOR. (lower right) Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Wesley Foundation students pose with flood buckets they helped fill.

END RACISM TAKES COLLABORATIVE APPROACH

By Matthew Johnson Mississippi Conference Connectional Ministries and Communications Assistant

FOR THE PAST THREE YEARS THE MISSISSIPPI CONFERENCE’S END RACISM FOR GOOD initiative has been working to eradicate the sin of racism from every heart, church and community. The initiative has shown great progress as Mississippians from all walks of life have come together to address racism and overcome racial barriers that have existed for years. In its third year, End Racism for Good’s priorities are shifting to include more brothers and sisters in Christ in the fight to end racism.

The End Racism for Good initiative started addressing racial trauma through racial healing circles. The healing circles were composed of people of diverse backgrounds and races that fellowshipped together in meeting spaces on Zoom, at churches and Wesley Foundations. The circles gave space for discussion on racism and the painful impact it had on people’s lives. The initial goal was to eventually have 1,000 United Methodists experience racial healing circles, but the progress was slowed by the pandemic. End Racism for Good co-chair Rev. Bruce Case, pastor at St Luke’s United Methodist Church in Jackson, explains how happy he is with the progress the initiative has made so far.

“We were proud of the response we got from churches around the state,” said Case. “We’ve had 600 people to participate in racial healing circles and we hope to continue adding more now that the pandemic has slowed.”

After years of success with racial healing circles, End Racism is shifting its focus to a more collaborative approach that includes brother and sisters in Christ from other denominations.

“In 2023, we began partnering with the Racial Reconciliation Task Force for the Episcopal Diocese of Miss.,” said Case. “They host monthly Zoom meetings that revolve around opportunities to grow in our self-awareness and identify where racism may be creeping up in our own lives.”

“We’ve had 600 people to participate in racial healing circles and we hope to continue adding more now that the pandemic has slowed.” – Rev. Bruce Case

The task force also plans to grow and train leaders in Beloved Community. An initiative aimed at building sustainable change, Beloved Community supports communities to further their collaborative journey for racial and economic equity.

End Racism co-chair Rev. Domini Henry, associate pastor at Anderson United Methodist Church in Jackson, is thankful that End Racism for Good is growing from a Mississippi Conference initiative to a collective partnership.

“The blessing for me is to see so many people involved in coming together to end racism,” said Henry. “To bring about change you need a wide range of people walking in unison and we’re all listening and learning together.”

Three years in the End Racism for Good initiative is still going strong and is working harder than ever to drive racism from hearts and heal communities. All help is welcome to make sustainable change that will benefit the lives of Mississippians for generations to come.

For more information on End Racism for Good visit https://www. mississippi-umc.org/endracismforgood.

RACISM

® END RACISM FOR GOOD

After years of success with racial healing circles, End Racism is shifting its focus to a more collaborative approach that includes brothers and sisters in Christ from other denominations.

Photo right: Rev. Bruce Case, left, and Rev. Domini Henry, right, co-chairs of End Racism For Good speak during the 2022 Session of the Mississippi Annual Conference.

istock.com istock.com

Certified Lay Ministry Academy Students Go Above and Beyond

By Matthew Johnson Mississippi Conference Connectional Ministries and Communications Assistant

SSTUDENTS ENROLLED IN THE CERTIFIED LAY MINISTRY Academy, CLM, transformed one of their modules from a small classroom assignment into a passion project from their hearts. The ministry they started shares the love of Christ with underserved people the students strongly desired to help, the elderly and victims of domestic violence.

The Certified Lay Ministry Academy trains laity to serve as a part of a ministry team with the supervision and support of a clergy person. The classes consist of multiple modules focused on the different aspects of ministry and the specific role certified lay ministers serve. Once classes are completed certified lay ministers can conduct public worship, care for a congregation, preach the Word, lead small groups or assist in program leadership.

One of the post-course assignments of the academy focuses on creative ways to reach the community. While the students could have written a paper, they decided to go a step further. The class collected items to bless the residents of Methodist retirement community Wesley Manor in Hattiesburg. Jan Garner, one of the CLM Academy students, explained the work they put in to brighten the residents’ day.

“We jumped right in creating care packages and collecting items to distribute to the residents,” said Garner. “We set up a room and gave away plants, snacks and healthcare products. We also made ourselves available for prayer and devotion.”

The students fellowshipped with 27 Wesley Manor residents... Many felt forgotten about during the pandemic due to visitation restrictions.

Certified Lay Ministry Academy students, left to right: Angela Miller, Rodger Wasson and Jan Garner

The students fellowshipped with 27 residents, many who paused to show their gratitude and express interest in learning more about their ministry. Wesley Manor’s staff and director were also thrilled to have the support of the students. Many residents felt forgotten about during the pandemic due to visitation restrictions. After the students visit to the retirement home, there were some supplies left over that the students boxed up and used to bless people at a local shelter for victims of domestic violence.

“It touched our hearts to bring the Lord forth in a way He could be recognized,” said Garner. “God is amazing, and we are excited to partner with these organizations and showcase God’s love.”

Rev. Sarah Windham, pastor at Wesley United Methodist Church in Columbus, is the dean of the Mississippi Certified Lay Ministry Academy and oversees the content and instruction of the modules. She is excited to witness her students’ service to their brothers and sisters in Christ.

“I’m proud of how these three students listened to God and created an amazing ministry,” said Windham. “I love the unique gifting of each of them. They are enacting the body of Christ.”

Certified lay people are important in the life of the church. Their hard work helps extend and expand the ministries and outreach of churches allowing more people to receive the word of God. If you are interested in becoming a certified lay minister visit https://www.mississippi-umc.org/layacademy.

“I’m proud of how these three students listened to God and created an amazing ministry. I love the unique gifting of each of them. They are enacting the body of Christ.”

– Rev. Sarah Windham

This photo and one above: Certified Lay Ministry Academy students donated flowers, snacks and personal care items for residents.

Up to the Challenge:

Committing to the Spiritual Discipline of Daily Scripture Reading

By Jasmine Haynes, Mississippi Conference Communications Specialist

JJUST DAYS BEFORE NEW YEAR’S EVE AND HER OFFICIAL FIRST DAY

as episcopal leader of the Mississippi Area, Bishop Sharma D. Lewis invited the conference to join her in reading the Bible daily throughout 2023. Mississippi United Methodist pastors and lay people had access to monthly scripture plans and began January 1 reading the Bible from Genesis to Revelation with questions for daily reflection. From day one, Bishop Lewis stressed that she wanted everyone to seek God’s word together as an annual conference so that all participating can become spiritually enriched and more knowledgeable as to what God’s word says and more specifically, what its saying to the reader on a personal level.

““Many people in the Mississippi Conference have said that the Bible Challenge has reinvigorated their desire to read the Bible. As long as I am the episcopal leader, I will continue to encourage people to begin the discipline of reading the word daily.”

Several of those persons participating in the challenge engage with her on social media as well as through letters to share the impact the challenge is having in their lives. Lewis shared that she received several in-person responses from around Mississippi as well.

“Many people in the Mississippi Conference have said that the Bible Challenge has reinvigorated their desire to read the Bible,” said Lewis. “As long as I am the episcopal leader, I will continue to encourage people to begin the discipline of reading the word daily.”

In addition to individual study, some small groups are taking on the 2023 Bible Challenge together. Rev. Olivear Booker, pastor at Union Memorial United Methodist Church in Pickens hosts a daily Zoom call with approximately 30 attendees who read the Bible Challenge scriptures. The meetings start sometimes at 5:30 a.m. when the group has commentary on the scriptures from the day before. They officially begin their gathering at 6:00 a.m. with opening prayer, screensharing scriptures and having assigned readers read. The group then closes with a song and prayer by 6:30 a.m.

– Bishop Sharma D. Lewis

According to Booker, there are families and couples, and the group ranges in age from 16 to 85. They have varying educational levels and experiences, different socioeconomic backgrounds and the group is ecumenical in nature. There are Methodist and Baptist parishioners who join, but there are also non-denominational believers on the call.

Spiritual Growth through Deeper Discovery

Tessa Morrell, a production editor for ongoing curriculum at Lifeway, wrote in “Why Studying Scripture in a Group is Vital for All Believers,” an article from Lifewayvoices.com, that 2 Timothy 3:16-17 explains that when people study Scripture they have a direct encounter with the truth of Spirit-inspired text. This is because “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” Morrell also wrote that based on Hebrews 4:12, “God’s word is living and active,” and transforms people’s hearts as they read and obey what the Word says.

Take Up the Challenge

Although the 2023 Bible Challenge will end December 31, a new challenge will begin January 1, 2024. Bishop Lewis stated in her first video message to the Mississippi Conference on the Bible Challenge that every year the conference can join her in reading the Bible differently—from beginning to end, chronologically, in an Old and New Testament blend and thematically.

Talking Scripture on Social

Find upcoming monthly scripture reading plans, graphics to promote the challenge in faith communities and all things Bible Challenge at https://www.mississippi-umc.org/ biblechallenge.

Continuing. It was hard through Leviticus and Numbers!

This is a great experience!

I will admit getting through some of the first chapters was a challenge. I have been faithful and am up to date and committed! Thank you for being our Bishop! Keep up the good work! May God continue to bless you.

Elise Aden Smith

Debbie Young

Betty B. Brower

Representatives from 18 churches pursuing the status of being a Lighthouse Congregation attend a training on Hospitality at St. Matthew’s UMC in Madison.

Safe Harbor, Safe Place

Mississippi Conference of The United Methodist Church

Linda Tucker from Main Street UMC in Bay St. Louis attends Hospitality training.

Rev. Tim Thompson, director of faith community formation speaks on Lighthouse Congregations during Chat and Chew at Galloway Memorial United Methodist Church in Jackson.

All smiles at the church hospitality training.

churches were represented at the training that took place at St. Matthew’s UMC in Madison at the end of April, and 13 churches are awaiting their opportunity to participate in this vital ministry.

BECOMING SAFE PLACES

By Jasmine Haynes, Mississippi Conference Communications Specialist

SEVERAL

CHURCHES AROUND THE Mississippi Conference and throughout the connection are preparing to face the missional and administrative impact of disaffiliations. Additionally, many parishioners have communicated a need to address the multidimensional spiritual and relational impact on everyone involved. Hearing these concerns led to the impetuous of the conference’s Lighthouse Congregations Initiative.

Episcopal leader, Bishop Sharma D. Lewis has tasked the Mississippi Conference Office of Faith Community Formation with implementing this initiative. That office’s mission is to prepare local churches to serve as lighthouses for United Methodists who are now without a church home due to disaffiliations or church closures. Lighthouse Congreations are also for seekers— people who are not committed to a church yet and are searching for deeper meaning in life.

According to Rev. Tim Thompson, director of faith community formation, initially the district superintendents recommended approximately 31 faith communities to become Lighthouse Congregations. Churches can also self-nominate.

“These faith communities will go through specialized training on hospitality and healing as well as other training to strengthen the churches’ health and resilience,” said Thompson.

The goal for churches expressing interest in becoming a Lighthouse Congregation is that they complete their applications and training by the end of July explained Thompson.

Eighteen churches were represented at the training that took place at St. Matthew’s United

Methodist Church (UMC) in Madison at the end of April, and 13 churches are awaiting their opportunity to participate. This was the first in a series of trainings for faith communities who have committed to become Lighthouse Congregations. The training encompassed considerations varying from congregational care and small group ministries to guest follow-up and connecting activities.

Linda Tucker from Main Street UMC in Bay St. Louis attended the hospitality training with two other lay persons from her church. Tucker explained that Main Street UMC went through an exploration process and took a vote, but there were not enough votes to disaffiliate, and the church remains United Methodist. Members who wanted to disaffiliate have left, but new people have also come into the fold and the church is open-minded to new ideas and ways to create welcoming experiences for seekers.

“It was very enlightening to hear everything we could do to strengthen our congregation and help our church grow,” shared Tucker. “We’ve already incorporated some of what was discussed.”

Although Tucker is hopeful for new ideas for the congregation to share their faith with newcomers, she also shared about the emotional impact of those who have left the church since the failed disaffiliation vote.

“It’s been very stressful. They are my friends and I miss them,” said Tucker. “A lot of propaganda was put out to members of our church and a lot of it, I don’t even believe is true.”

See Lighthouse, page 32

Participants are attentive at hospitality training.

“It’s not about the buildings, it’s about the mission. When I think of this anniversary, I think about our theme— 100 years of Advocacy and Resilience.”

100 Years of Advocacy and Resilience

GGULFSIDE ASSEMBLY

By Jasmine Haynes, Communications Specialist

THIS YEAR MARKS 100 YEARS SINCE

Gulfside Assembly was founded and United Methodists from across the connection had several opportunities to be a part of the celebration. Festivities kicked off with the ribboncutting of the Gulfside Assembly’s historic exhibit at the Waveland Ground Zero Museum (WGZM) Wednesday, March 15. Around 50 people participated in this first of many festivities to commemorate the Gulfside Assembly Experience. The exhibit showcased a myriad of significant seasons in Gulfside’s 100year history. Highlights range from its role as a refuge for civil rights leaders and usage as mission and study conferences, to its various challenges

to rebuild after storms such as Hurricanes Camille and Katrina.

In 2005 just three weeks after the dedication of a $3 million building, Hurricane Katrina totally destroyed the facilities at Gulfside. Interim executive director of Gulfside Assembly, Cheryl Thompson who designed, directed and orchestrated the display at the WGZM explained why that was not the end of Gulfside’s story.

“It’s not about the buildings, it’s about the mission. When I think of this anniversary, I think about our theme—100 years of Advocacy and Resilience,” said Thompson.

In the early 20th century—because of segregation—most hotels, restaurants,

– Cheryl Thompson Interim Executive Director, Gulfside Assembly

Photo courtesy of the General Commission on Archives and History of The United Methodist Church

Photo courtesy of “The Shoofly Magazine”

beaches and other public facilities were established for whites leaving African Americans with few, if any, places to go for recreation. Bishop Robert E. Jones, after a speaking engagement at Lakeside Retreat Center—a Methodist Episcopal Church center located on Lake Erie in Ohio—resolved to create such a center for African Americans in the South. Through the aid of churches and individuals, Jones raised approximately $4,000 to purchase land in Waveland, Mississippi. Gulfside Assembly is a Heritage Landmark of The United Methodist Church and is proclaimed as the first religious retreat and training center for clergy and the School for Boys for African Americans in the South.

In honor of that foundation on which this long-standing organization was built, the Gulfside Assembly 100th Anniversary Planning Team hosted

a weekend of events April 27-29 to celebrate Gulfside’s past mission and raise funds and awareness for its future ministry. On Friday, guests enjoyed a semi-formal anniversary gala in Bay St. Louis. The weekend wrapped up with a closing worship service and an opportunity for everyone to love their neighbors in a local community service project. According to Althea Belton, who is the community outreach coordinator at Gulfside Assembly and a General Board of Global Ministries (GBGM) missionary, the project surpassed expectations.

“We originally planned on helping feed 100 families with this project, but due to Feeding America having an event cancellation, we were able to serve over 260 families along with the help of volunteers from St. Stanislaus, Ochsner, the Boys & Girls Club and others in the community,” shared Belton.

In the early 20th century— because of segregation— most hotels, restaurants, beaches and other public facilities were established for whites leaving African Americans with few, if any, places to go for recreation.

Bishop Robert E. Jones

Photos, from left to right: Gulfside Interim Executive Director, Cheryl Thompson, addresses crowd at the gala; Cheryl Thompson, Hancock County Boys and Girls Club Director, Wanda Hilliard and Gulfside Community Outreach Coordinator, Althea Belton hold uniforms as Gulfside donates 100 uniform vouchers to kids in the surrounding Hancock County Community.

See Gulfside Assembly, page 30

Seashore District Lay Leader Vera Thomas sees the reduction in districts as an opportunity for laity to strengthen their relationships with districts and the conference.

“The reduction of districts will provide an opportunity for laity to be more fully involved,” said Thomas. “They will have better understanding of how their district operates and be able to grow in their service to the district and conference.”

The reduction in districts gives the Mississippi Conference the opportunity to serve God’s people in a better way. Districts will operate more efficiently and better serve the churches and congregations in their care. Mississippi Conference clergy and laity will vote on reducing the number of districts during one of the businesses sessions of annual conference.

Read The Circuit Rider Monthly Newsletter

Join our mailing list: http://bit.ly/opt-in4

News releases, updates and a webinar detailing the work of the District Realignment Task Force can be found at https://www.mississippi-umc.org/realignment

ALLIE FOSTER JACKSON

The late Allie Foster Jackson—mother of retired elder, Rev. Dr. Embra Jackson Jr.—had a life-long love of music, education and family. Allie Foster Jackson also encouraged and supported her daughter-in-law Rosia Jackson in her role as a wife, mother and clergy spouse, which influenced her engagement with Mississippi Conference clergy spouses. That love and support inspired the Jacksons to later establish the Allie D. Foster Jackson College Scholarship Endowment. The intention of the endowment is to assist those attending an accredited college or university, with priority given to clergy spouses.

You can support this endowment by giving through https://methodistfm.org/donate/. Make sure to notate you are giving to the Allie D. Foster Jackson College Scholarship Endowment.

Clergy spouses are encouraged to apply for this financial education assistance through the Methodist Foundation of Mississippi at https://methodistfm.org/scholarships/college/.

The scholarship is currently closed but will be open for applications January 1, 2024. Read more about the namesake of this endowment at https://bit.ly/AFJacksonscholarship.

At the Service of Celebration and the Ordering of Ministry, the Mississippi Conference Board of Ordained Ministry presents Bishop Sharma D. Lewis those persons who have responded to the call of God to proclaim and live out the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We honor the following persons and their call to life and work in ordained ministry:

Ordained Elders

Dan Sean Darling

Katherine Marie Giedd

Hannah Comer Shempert

George Sapada Thomas

Commissioning as Deacon and Elder

Timothy Alan Atwood

Vivian Denise Brown-Toussaint

Christopher Louis Carpenter

Charles Edward Harper III

Benetra Mangum-Johnson

Dwayne Robinson

Thomas Pace Toole

A Service of Celebration and the Ordering of Ministry Celebrating Retirees

We celebrate the ministry of the men and women retiring this year, knowing that they will use their new-found free time in other ways to serve God and advance His kingdom. Well done!

Note: This List reflects those retiring as of May 26, 2023.

Elders in Full Connection

Phillip Box

Brister Calvin Cosnahan

Fred Hugh Eakes

Tim Andrew Green

Ronald Gene Gomillion

Mary R. Hutson

David Laird

Diane Griffin Lemmon

Joe Willie May

Elizabeth A. Miller

John Douglas Pepper

Charles Harold Reed

Milton Thomas Whatley

Deacon in Full Connection

Sandra Glenn Brown

Associate Members

Ricky Hugh Bishop

Mark Regan Nail

Local Pastors

Lynne Elizabeth Anderson

Michael Lynn Assink

Jerry Wayne Bonds

W. Tom Halford

Ronald S. Jefferson

Paul Steven Kennedy

Don E. Newton

Alice Roberson

Cary Lee Sutphin

Diaconal Minister

Edgar Walker

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, And before you were born I consecrated you; I have appointed you a prophet to the nations.” – Jeremiah 1:5

We Want to Hear from You!

Tell us about your conference experience by completing this brief survey. Your feedback helps us continue to serve you with excellence as we develop and plan future conferences.

Visit the link below or scan the QR code to take the 2023 AC Survey.

https://bit.ly/2023msacsurvey

Rev. Dr. Gerald Richardson, Gulfside Assembly Interim Executive Director, Cheryl Thompson and Carolyn Richardson pose for a picture at the meet and greet during the 100th anniversary celebration weekend.

Although the weekend celebrating 100 years has ended, Gulfside’s community engagement ministries not only continue, but they are also growing. These ministries include, but are not limited to the Youth Development Program, Senior Lunch and Learn, Faith-based Collaborative, Veterans Support Initiative, Gulfside Open Alliance Leadership Support, School Uniform Voucher Program and a community garden.

Gulfside Assembly continues its legacy of advocacy and empowerment through its missionary works in education, spiritual development and social change.

Gulfside Assembly continues its legacy of advocacy and empowerment through its missionary works in education, spiritual development and social change. You can partner with this historic organization and help Gulfside Assembly continue to produce and develop transformational programming that supports local, regional and national communities by giving online at https://bit.ly/ Give2Gulfside.

• Case managers continued recovery assistance and rebuilding for survivors of Hurricane Ida

• Disaster response officials are beginning to assess damage and begin recovery efforts for survivors of the March tornadoes.

Robin Jackson, UMCOR monitor and evaluation specialist, describes some of the cases UMCOR has completed in the last year.

“Our case managers have assessed 78 survivors who were affected by Hurricane Ida,” said Jackson. “We have completed two homes damaged by Hurricane Ida, one a total rehabilitation.”

Disaster Response Abroad

Across the United States and internationally, UMCOR partners with government and local disaster response officials and volunteers. Their goal is to be a blessing to those suffering from natural or humancaused disasters, alleviate suffering and serve as a source of help for the vulnerable affected by crisis or chronic need.

Around the world UMCOR has aided with:

• Damage from hurricanes throughout the United States

• Desolation and a refugee crisis caused by the Ukraine War

• Destruction caused by earthquakes in Turkey and Syria

How You Can Help

Disaster response involves an all-hands-on deck approach. While many may be suffering there are far more caring hearts prepared to help. People willing to volunteer time, money and resources are important to the mission of disaster response.

Ways you can help include:

• Interested volunteers can sign up for an early response training class and learn disaster response skills like mucking out houses, tarping roofs and removing debris.

• Churches, ministries, youth groups, Wesley Foundations and willing volunteers can help fill flood buckets and relief supply kits that can be used locally or around the world.

• Donors can provide funds that will allow disaster response to hire necessary staff to oversee recovery and rebuilding.

• There is also the opportunity to donate construction materials that can be used in the rebuilding process.

Rev. Newell reminds us why we should use our Methodists connection to be a ray of hope for people facing their darkest times.

Thorns Beneath My Feet

By Regina S. Fleming

Fleming was blackballed by her employer after being diagnosed with cancer. Read the author’s fascinating true story of how the power of faith and prayer gave her the strength to fight back and stay alive.

Regina Fleming is the daughter of Layman Hubert Fleming. Her novel can be found on Amazon.

“Everybody is UMCOR. Every member of The United Methodist Church, survivors included because its neighbors helping neighbors.”

Churches are invited to support United Methodist disaster response. Donations taken during the mission service offering will go towards the 2023 Mission Focus.

NewBellZION

United Methodist Church

3743 Hwy. 25 South P.O. Box 144 39760 Starkville, MS 39759 662-648-9398

Elder Rochelle

Ashford-Minor, Pastor

MISSION STATEMENT: Making disciples who will make disciples for Christ by inviting others, building relationships, teaching the Word and serving others.

Robin Jackson, right, speaks with survivors of the March tornadoes.

LIGHTHOUSE page 25

Overall, Tucker is optimistic. She said she is proud of her church and thinks they have a lot to offer by way of worship, faith and spiritual growth to new people to the community and persons from other churches that have disaffiliated and are looking for another place to worship.

Persons whose churches have disaffiliated and are looking to remain United Methodist, or persons wanting to become United Methodist can fill out this form - https://bit. ly/Lighthouseform to indicate their interest in connecting with The United Methodist Church. Learn more about Lighthouse Congregations by visiting https://www.msumcconnect.org/.

For interested faith communities who wish to apply to become a Lighthouse Congregation, reach out to Jason Zebert in the faith community formation office at jzebert@mississippi-umc.org, or visit the faith community formation booth.

MISSION STATEMENT:

To educate, empower, and inspire individuals, children, and families to live their best lives.