Future pastors, chaplains? Bishop's youth convo asks 'Are you the one?'

By Jan Jett
Hoosier UM News Correspondent

"Are you the one?" asked Bishop Woodie White of more than 200 youth and adults gathered at DePauw University for the Bishop's Convocation on Youth in Ministry. He continued by saying that in that room were future pastors, district superintendents, bishops, chaplains, campus ministers as well as engineers, teachers, nurses. He told them to start by listening, and if God is calling them, hopefully they will answer by saying yes and then preparing themselves to serve.

Tim Price and the Harvest Ministry Team provided gathering music that set the tone for a special day of fun and learning. There was clapping, shouting, praising, moving to rhythm and words of praise and promise. Prayer was led by Michael Love, Barnes UMC, President of the Conference Youth Council.

Fourteen workshops gave participants the opportunity to explore ministry jobs that are available to ordained pastors. These included opportunities in churches, universities, inner-city settings, counseling, military. Young pastors spoke of their journeys before and after they answered the call to ministry and ordination.

The Rev. Derek Weber, a United Methodist clergyman, inspired the youth with words of humor as well as questions they might ask themselves as they listen and try to discern God's call to them. They were at the convocation to think of ministry, to wonder if maybe.? Answering the call will raise questions such as am I good enough? Do I really want to do this? God provides when God calls.

Robert G. Bottoms, President of UM-related DePauw University, welcomed participants and talked of the United Methodist universities in Indiana, including Universities of Evansville and Indianapolis. Lunch served outdoors provided time for youth, pastors and other adults to talk informally about the choices they had made and what ministries they represented.

Youth workers and volunteers wore vests labeled Bishop's Convocation. They were available to help with parking and giving directions. The Rev. Deborah Cronin, associate council director, and Beckie Minglin, Conference Board of Youth Ministries, planned and organized the convocation. The Rev. Kurt Freeman, Seelyville UMC, introduced speakers and offered the benediction at the end of the day.

Was it a good day? Did you have fun? Will you listen? Youth were urged to contact their district committees on ministry for additional information and answers to questions. Names of youth participants also will be provided to the Board of Ministry for prayer and follow up.

Editor's Note: A parallel event for North Conference youth is set for Saturday, Sept 28 at Oakwood Retreat Center in North Webster.

Last updated on 01/14/2004

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