North Indiana Conference

Conference Council Director Cindy Reynolds announced three operating goals for the coming year: excellence in communication and collaboration; intentional leadership development; and holding each other accountable to the core values of the conference. "This is a new day!" she stated. A special song reflecting the theme, "We sing a new song," was written and performed by John Haney for this year's conference session.
Conference preacher was Bishop Michael Coyner, Dakotas.
Approved a $1 million fund drive for construction of a new worship center to be named in honor of Bishop Woodie W. White. The sanctuary will be part of New Hope UMC in Anderson, a holistic, multi-ethnic ministry to the poor.
Affirmed a Conference Foundation report announcing that $3.4 million in new investments as well as establishment of a special loan fund for local church growth projects.
Passed a resolution by the Rev. Riley Case, "Support of the War Against Terrorism," which also calls the conference to prayer for world leaders, world peace, and "for those who would hate us."
Approved a $10.3 million 2003 budget, representing an increase of approximately .04 over last year, due to increases in retiree health insurance subsidy, property insurance and general church apportionments.

Outdoor Ministries reported 2,000 more campers (for a total of 4,844) attended church camps last year.
The conference UMW (United Methodist Women) ranks second in the nation for attendance at their annual School of Christian Mission Children's Mission Camp (Chi-Mi-Ca)
North Conference members gave $294,665 to the Church's 9/11 fund
Total conference giving to the Advance (world missions) was $1,089,258 last year
$835,193 of which went to Indiana missions projects.
Ordained 14 new elders and one new deacon
Consecrated three new missionaries: Linda McBride, serving Muncie Dist. at Covenant Partners; Juan Martinez, coordinator of Hispanic Ministries in Frankfort; and Evelyn Taylor, Missionary of Advocacy and Resource, relating to all congregations.
Celebrated the ministries of 18 retiring pastors.

Last updated on 01/14/2004