Saturday, December 01, 2018

District Conference 2018 in the Books

The 2019 IL/WI District Conference was held Nov. 2-3 at the Cerro Gordo Church of the Brethren under the banner “Preach the Word” led by Moderator, Paul Kohler. The conference opened Friday evening with a rousing hymn sing led by Bob Lake (Polo) and accompanied by Jocelyn Watkins (Peoria). Worship followed with Tim Laird (Pastor, Cerro Gordo) serving as worship leader and Paul Kohler (Champaign) preaching. An ice cream social was held after worship.

Saturday was a full day of business with a variety of reports being presented by district and denominational leadership. One important item of interest reported was the creation of an endowment. The funds to open the endowment were given to the district through the Frances Senger Trust. Frances was a long-time member of the closed Astoria congregation.

As has become tradition, both a silent and live auction were held. Not only do the auctions raise funds for the general administration of the district, but it has become one of the highlights of conference providing a time for a bit of levity amidst the heaviness of business.

The host congregation extended gracious hospitality. They are commended for a job well done.

If any negative emerged from the conference it was the foggy conditions Saturday morning. Driving to the conference site was challenging and treacherous. Thankfully everyone arrived safely although a little frazzled from a taxing trip and the business was not clouded at all.

We will gather again in 2019, Nov. 1 & 2, at the Dixon Church of the Brethren.