Leadership Team Meets at Pinecrest Manor; November 15, 2014
DEVOTIONS: Mandy opened with devotions entitled "Living Free every day." If we don't use our talents we might just be the hole in the puzzle. You could be the missing piece when asked to serv. Ask God what you might be called to do. Mandy closed with prayer.
REORGANIZATION: Mandy agreed to serve another term as the Chairperson of the Leadership Team. Tim Laird accepted the position of Vice Chairperson. Gil Crosby agreed to continue as secretary.
MEETING DATES: The following meeting dates and places were selected. The places of meeting will depend on the agreement of the host congregation. Feb. 7 - Canton; April 11 - Rockford; June 6 - LaPlace; Aug. 1 - Polo; Oct. 3 - Oak Grove; Nov. 21 - Pleasant Hill. All meeting places subsequent to confirmation by host facility.
DISTRICT CONFERENCE RECAP; There was some disappointment by some of the attendees that the query didn't pass. We need to remain in conversation on this subject and NOT distrust one another. One congregation asked if the Leadership Team would meet with congregations to listen what people of the District feel about the subject. Part of the Moderator's goal this year is to ask congregations, "What does it mean to be in Community"? What do we have in common rather than what do we disagree on. We all need to work on getting along together.
DISTRICT EXECUTIVE INSURANCE: Kevin has saved the District money by signing up for Medical Insurance on line. However to save that money he had to increase his deductibles and asks if the District, along with the Canton congregation, would consider helping offset some of this expense. A letter from the Brethren Benefit Trust (BBT) informed congregations that if they pay for individual premiums the payments are taxable. Kevin will look into a possible Group Plan that could include Beth Carpentier the Administrative Assistant. It might be possible this could save the District money.
LISTENING TEAM: The organization of a Listening Team to visit Churches was proposed as part of the 2004 paper on when congregations are in disagreement with Annual Conference. Mandy, Prudy and Gary volunteered to be part of the team. Dana and Kevin agree to work with all teams including the Listening Team.
MODERATOR: Dana's Theme is from Philippians 3: 12; "Take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me." God calls us to take time to look at ourselves to heal the brokenness and begin healing.. starting now.
GOALS FOR 2015: The list should be short to better accomplish the goals we set. We should be meeting with congregations especially those who do not feel close to the District or even the Denomination. We must be more intentional staying in touch with congregations in the District. We will work more closely with the LT liaisons.
We need to continue to work with the Chicago Committee. A trust was set up to be used for ministry in Chicago. Kevin feels the need to spend more time with this group.
It was reported that the Laplace Congregation has a food program and because of new state regulations needs a cooler. It was recommended they apply for a Mission & Mortar grant to purchase one. It was also suggested they contact appliance stores for used coolers and also go to CICM in Decatur.
OTHER: Kim Ebersole needs information on local Bus transportation for NOAC. She would also like a coordinator to work with a local bus company to arrange for transportation to Lake Junaluska next year.
ADJOURN with prayer by Moderator, Dana McNeil.
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