Conference ends with a call for repentance

Youth from the South Indiana Conference ushered in the final plenary of the 2001 session with a fashion show of sorts. Straight off the runways of Paris, New York and Milan, the youth presented the latest and not-so-fashionable line of crosses. The "upwardly mobile cross" is designed for the trendy cross wearer. A Christian looking for a comfy faith experience would be happy with the new "comfy cross." Decorated with holly and poinsettia, the "holiday cross" is especially popular in December. But for those suffering a crisis, they should never be without their "pocket cross."

The shouts of laughter were silenced when a young man shouldering "the original cross" slowly stepped onto stage. We were all reminded that this cross comes with an eternal guarantee.

Following the baptism of Rebekah Freeman, infant daughter of Rev. Kurt and Elizabeth Freeman of Maxwell UMC, Indianapolis East, Bishop Woodie W. White professed the significance of the moment; "There is nothing more important at this Annual Conference session than the baptism of Rebekah Freeman."

Throughout the conference session, Angela Martin entertained delegates and lay members with her magnificent vocal talents. Her rendition of His Eye Is on the Sparrow on Saturday morning received a standing ovation.

Dr. Edwin Zeiders, this year's Conference Preacher, concluded the morning worship service with a stirring sermon. He detailed a meeting he had with his daughter a few years earlier. A special meeting called by his daughter led Dr. Zeiders to conclude that she had something important to share. Once together she declared, "You were never there." (in reference to her youth). Zeiders went on to explain that in retrospect, he spent much of his time trying to work longer and harder than others. Like his father, he measured his worth through work. His family became casualties.

In other action:

Dennis Deeter from the Section on Group Insurance reported that there was a whopping 19% increase in the claim history this past year. Prescription medication represented 33% of the total claims paid. A total of $4,779,005 was paid in claims from our insurance funds in 2000. "Claims drive premiums," he emphasized in explaining why insurance premiums are so high for conference clergy and staff members.
Lynne DeMichele from Area Communications introduced Carver McGriff's new book Amazing Grace, A History of Indiana Methodist, 1801-2001 as part of the Church's bicentennial celebration. She also presented the new Associate Director of Communications, Matthew Carlisle.
Bill Cross of the UM Publishing House presented Bishop White with a check for $15,897.27, an annual presentation of a percentage of Cokesbury sales from the previous year.
Discussion followed regarding a resolution from the Indiana Area Communications Commission calling for establishment of a new volunteer position, Conference Coordinator for Igniting Ministry. The resolution passed with an amendment by Rev. Tom Kinser making it a paid position. Funding for the position has been referred to the Council on Finance and Administration.
Bishop White announced that he has contacted the bishops of black Wesleyan denominations to be part of a repentance service at the 2002 Annual Conference session.
The 11 amendments to the United Methodist Church Constitution were all approved. Most related to updating language in the Book of Discipline to reflect the 1968 merger of the Methodist and EUB denominations. Two of the amendments related to the Church's understanding of baptism, effectively recognizing all those baptized as "members," and those who express their Confession of Faith through the traditional Confirmation process as "professing members." Matthew Carlisle

Dates for the 2002 Annual Conference Session are:

June 6-8.

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