As an Annual Conference lay member, there is a responsibility to report back from the Annual Conference session to their local church soon after the event.
But what do you report back?
In a room of over 2,000 clergy and lay members, and over the course of three days, there can be a lot to take in.
Some things to observe and form in your report:
- Where the VAUMC is focused in mission and ministry
- Global and state UMC community
- Church realities in terms of budget, health/pension plans for clergy
All of our local UMCs and their members are doing great work in mission and ministry and it is important to be reminded that that work is happening elsewhere also–under the umbrella of the UMC identity.
As you participate in each day of the conference, write down moments that bring you joy, questions you have, and moments that bring you in the presence of God.
Who do you report to?
Consider what needs to be said to the church community in worship and also in a newsletter/on your website for points of information.
That communication will most definitely differ from internal communications with church staff and SPRC/treasurer, etc.
How do you share?
Some tools to aid you in your storytelling include:
- Full written report: The conference Communications office will have a full written report shared on the conference website and in communications to the VAUMC by Tuesday, June 23.
- Following the AC session there will be a video summary report that can be shared in local church worship.
- Pictures from the event will be posted to the conference Flickr page
If you have any questions, contact communications@vaumc.org.