Clergy Connexion July 2022

A Word from the Bishop Dear Friends, Rev. Terry Goodman asked me to write an article sharing impressions of my first Holston Annual Conference. I readily agreed to his request.

Impression #1: Lake Junaluska is a great place to have an annual conference gathering. Though I have been on those holy grounds numerous times for meetings, retreats, jurisdictional conferences and workshops, this was my first annual conference at Lake Junaluska. The outstanding hospitality, beautiful scenery and comfortable accommodations created a warm family atmosphere for our worship, business and work together.

Impression #2: The worship was powerful. Thanks to musicians and groups coordinated by Wesley Rouse, beautiful liturgy prepared by those planning our worship services and strong preaching by Bishop James Swanson, Rev. Sarah Varnell and Rev. Jeff Wright, the rafters shook with songs and words of praise.

Impression #3: Our “Pray Together” theme permeated the entire conference.

Stellar teaching by Dr. Tom Albin, prayers via video brought to us from our Christian friends in South Sudan and references to praying together in sermons and presentations kept us focused on the significance of communal prayer.

Impression #4: Holston clergy and laity debated with skill, respect and grace.

Though we did not agree on every matter, we listened well to each other and honored the various perspectives presented.

Impression #5: The Holston Conference is engaging in anti-racism work. We have miles to go in this area, but the desire to dismantle racism and grow in