Thank you for allowing me to attend the 2008 Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church which was held at Clearbranch UMC June 5-7. The theme was HOPE: "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful." (Hebrews 10:23) This verse along with the vision statement of the conference was emphasized throughout the two days to establish areas of priorities for OUR work to make more disciples in our local churches.

The guest speaker was Dr. Lovett Weems who spoke on four major areas of the theme: (1) Establishing new congregations, (2) Natural church development, (3) Effective leadership in the 21st century, and (4) Empowering a new generation of Christians. He gave us some practical suggestions as well as challenging ideas to explore within North Alabama.

Janet Brookman of Northwood United Methodist Church was elected Lay Leader for the Northwest District and Dale Capron was ordained Elder as a minister in full connection. He will serve in Jasper again this year.

Since the North Alabama Conference no longer publishes a magazine or a mailed newsletter, we will benefit from reading current news and messages on the internet at North Alabama UMC. The conference has made great strides in using modern technology to keep us informed and to simplify some reporting procedures.

Many agencies and committees gave updates of their activities via written reports, testimonies and videos, which made their presentations attractive and helpful. It is truly amazing to hear of all the work in which we Methodists are involved within North Alabama and beyond.

To attend Conference and see the evidence of the connectional system at work always inspires me and gives me hope for future growth. It is wonderful to see so many dedicated people who work diligently as full-time servants of Christ in our midst. And WE are part of it all!!

With hope and faith,
Your Lay Delegate - Carolyn McCollum

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