Sunday evening worship

Worship last evening offered an amazing variety of celebration of anniversaries, ministries, God at work!

We shared the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Communities of Shalom, begun at the 1992 General Conference, during which riots broke out in Los Angeles.  The Commission on the Status & Role of Women celebrates it's 40th anniversary.  This monitoring and advocacy commission was started at the impetus of United Methodist Women.  It is also for 100th anniversary of the inclusion of laity as delegates to the General Conference.

We also heard reports of the fabulous ministries associated with our four focus areas:
   New Leaders for the Global Church
   New Congregations in New Places with New People
   Ministry with the Poor
   Eradicating Killer Diseases
Many of our youngest members are leading the way in reaching out in these areas.

We also heard about the beginning of the 20/20 Visioning for the eradication of HIV/AIDS.  Without this we have a "genocide of indifference."  But United Methodists have heard the cry of those with HIV/AIDS, and are responding with ministry.

We also celebrating 20 years of Africa University and the fabulous Christian Education offered there.

Lastly, we celebrated the 100 years of Girl Scouting, and Boy Scouting.  Two Good Shepherd medals were presented to Boy Scouts.

This morning we begin plenary deliberations on items which will come to the floor for deliberation.  Please keep us in your prayers.