Bishop Sue Haupert-Johnson called the 242nd Annual Conference into session this morning. Bishop Sue then invited the oldest member (Rev. Jim Godwin) and the youngest member (Mr. Benton Crigger) to lead us in prayer. The worship began with interpretive dancing to Genesis 28:10-22, the story of Jacob sleeping at the well and awaking to the overwhelming presence of God.
Bishop Sue shared about living in Florida when Hurricane Charley was about to hit. They were able to find shelter but described the eeriness of venturing out after the storm. They had no idea what they would find. She described feeling isolated and wondering if the rest of the world even knew about the devastation that just happened. Bishop Sue then shared that later she was able to see the operations system and know that people were very much aware of what was going on – she was very joyful to learn that “we are on a grid!”. She transitioned to recalling the story of Jacob.
Bishop Sue reminded us that God is on the grid! Jacob wakes up at the well and realizes that God is there with him. Heaven is breaking in all around us – we are not always aware of it! She challenged us to focus on our own spiritual disciplines. She often challenges people to just sit in silence. We are on the grid, every single human being and God is beside us. God calls us to share with everyone that we have been called to be a people of blessing and we are to let people know that they are not alone that we are all connected to each other. She challenged us to focus more on our spiritual disciplines and we will reflect the fruits of the spirit even more.
Bishop Sue introduced Rev. Amanda Garber, Director of Missional Engagement and Rev. Jo Ann Batteiger, Associate Director of Missional Engagement, to share about the Annual Conference Offering. There are two recipients this year, the Partnerships of Hope and the Undue Medical Debt. Partnerships of Hope ministers to people across the globe. Undue Medical Debt is a non-profit organization that purchases medical debt for pennies on the dollar and then cancels the debt for people who desperately need this opportunity.
Communion began next with Bishop Sue presiding. She reminded us that the Holy Spirit is always with us, that we ask for it to pour out on us in abundance, not in a trickle, but in abundance.
The session closed with singing “I Come with Joy” and adjournment by Bishop Sue Haupert-Johnson at 12:20 PM.