June 22, 2017
Dear Readers,
This week's UM Connector features a wrap up of several stories from the 2017 Annual Conference Session. One of the benefits of our shared conference with the Pacific Northwest Conference is that we had a larger team of staff and volunteers working to capture the events and stories of the conference. That means better information for pastors and lay members to share in their reports.
Also find a few other items this week, three global stories, and a remembrance.
Welcome to summer!
Greg Nelson, Director of Communications
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Missed a special moment?
Videos of the entire Annual Conference, and highlighted excerpts are available on the Greater NW YouTube Channel. |
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Retirees recognized
Retirees from OR-ID and PNW Conferences joined for a retiree luncheon at Annual Conference. Retirees were also recognized during Friday's Plenary session. Read more about it. |
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Welcome a new bishop
Bishop Elaine JW Stanovsky was installed as the bishop of the Greater Northwest Episcopal Area. Representatives from the Alaska, Oregon-Idaho, and Pacific Northwest Conferences participated. Read more about it. |
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Health Insurance changes for 2018
The Oregon-Idaho AC approved new recommendations for insurance plans. Participants will have new options and a new cost structure.
Read more about it. |
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Young people share thoughts on conference
Young people from across the area took time to share some thoughts. Read more about it. |
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Memorial Service remembers people and churches
The AC memorial service remembered those of our community who have died in the last year, and also recognized three Oregon-Idaho Churches that closed in the past year. Read more about it. |
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Plenary Session Update
Roberta Egli provides an update of some of the action in the Oregon-Idaho plenary session. Budget was increased, but apportionments were decreased.
Read more about it. |
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Laity Session
A combined OR-ID and PNW laity session focused on ways the local churches are impacting communities. Laity had time to consider their local context and share ideas in table groups.
Read more about it.
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AROUND THE GLOBE
Palestinian Christians call for support
BETHLEHEM (WCC) —The National Coalition of Christian Organizations in Palestine issued an open letter to the World Council of Churches and the ecumenical movement, calling for action and support. The WCC participated in the June 20-22 “Consultation on 50 Years of Occupation and the Ecumenical Response” in the Holy Land. Read the story and read the open letter.
British Methodists condemn mosque attack
LONDON — British Methodist leaders condemned the attack on worshippers at Finsbury Park Mosque. The president and vice president of the Methodist Conference said the attack was particularly offensive during Ramadan. “We pray that these events will not lead to the spread of fear in our city but that, once again, Londoners will stand united against those who would have us turn on each other in hate,” said the Rev. Roger Walton and Rachel Lampard in a statement. Read the statement.
718 graduate at Africa University
MUTARE, Zimbabwe (UMNS) — An Africa University alumnus told the 718 graduates from 23 African countries that it was time for them to give back to Africa. Washington Madziwadondo told graduates to remember that “Africa University built you to stand tall and lead.” Read the rest of this United Methodist News Service story.
IN REMEMBRANCE
Joan Townsen
September 15, 1931– June 6, 2017
Joan Townsen, widow of retired Pastor Dwight Townsen, died June 6, 2017. She is survived by her three children, Beverly Castner, Suzanne Townsen and Steven Townsen; and three grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one granddaughter.
Pastor Townsen served Elbert in the Northwest Texas Conference; Portland: Hoyt Street, Portland: Rockwood, Pendleton, Oregon City, Oregon City/Carus, Tigard and Madras in the Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference. He retired in 1988.
A celebration of life service for Joan Townsen will be held at Oregon City United Methodist Church on Saturday, July 29th at 2:00 p.m. The church is located at 18955 S. South End Road, Oregon City, OR 97045.
Donations in memory of Joan can be made to the Oregon City United Methodist Church or to the Rose Villa Foundation, 13505 SE River Road, Milwaukie, OR 97222.
Friends may contact Suzanne Townsen, 13505 SE River Road #71, Milwaukie, OR 97222 for condolences or more information.
Elaine Stanovsky, Bishop
Dan Wilson-Fey, Conference Treasurer and Benefits Officer
