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Annual Report of the Commission on Community Life
During the past year, much of our emphasis has been on
existing Conference properties. To that end, the special Conference
meeting on June 6, 2009 at Waterville voted
to support the recommendation that Rockcraft Lodge property be closed
to outside use as of December 31, 2009 and sold. Pilgrim Lodge needs
a lot of work, particularly on the boardwalk. Other properties will
be reported upon in the coming year.
Our focus on small church ministries through the
Parishes of Promise program continues to thrive and grow, drawing small
churches to a closer understanding of covenant and helping them define
their own missions and ministries.
Youth ministries, always a focus in a growing church,
are thriving and growing with the inclusion of a Middle School Ministries
rally in May. The 63 in attendance greatly enjoyed "Shepherd's
Pie" , a Franklin
County band, played
team building games, heard from Rick Small of the Good Shepherd Food Bank,
and worshiped together.
Clergy Spouse Support ministries seem to be fading away,
due to travel distances, the future plans include establishing an online
blog or face book setting for their discussions.
Staff Support ministries appears to be defunct, but the
Commission believes we need a blog or similar setting for questions,
support and dissemination of information for this group as well. We will
revisit this in the fall.
Outdoor ministries are thriving in our Conference with a
special emphasis on Pilgrim Lodge. Bryan
will join us in the fall to offer inspiration. We are seeking an at-large
member for our Commission with a particular interest in Outdoor Ministries.
The Commission will lose three of its at-large members
this year. We are looking for new and exciting/excited members
to take their places. If you feel yourself called to participate with
us, please present your name to the Conference Nominating Committee.
We are excited to be the Commission on Community Life!
Grace and peace,
Susan G. DeCoster, Chair
July 2009
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