Other Conference Thoughts

The preaching at Conference was really good. Bishop Ward is an excellent preacher and did a great job in each of her messages. I was particularly impressed with Bishop Thomas J. Bickerton of the Western Pennsylvania Conference. He led the morning Bible Study and did a great job. He may have been the best Bible teacher I've witnessed at conference. I overheard someone saying that he mentioned Jesus more than any one else they've ever heard at Conference! And they were right. He gave some really good teaching.

The one issue that many thought would produce a lot of debate (i.e. argument) was a resolution condemning Lake Junaluska for hosting the "Hearts of Fire" conference of the Reconciling Ministries Network. The Committee on Resolutions made some editorial changes to the original resolution, which, except for an added paragraph stating the sacred worth of all persons, were voted down. The original resolution which voiced the Conference's disapproval of Lake Junaluska hosting the conference was approved with very little discussion and it was approved overwhelmingly. One person estimated that close to 95% of the Conference voted in favor of it.

And, of course one of the joys of conference is spending time with friends. We are able to see many of our old friends from the Mississippi Delta, as well as other friends that I have made through my time in ministry. That community is part of the real joys of conference.

It was a good week, but it is good to be back home. After all, Sunday is coming, and I've still got a sermon to finish! My first as an Elder!