Konnie’s Report from the Annual Conference
When Pastor Gary asked me to submit a short article for the newsletter regarding the Annual Conference I attended – “just point out a couple things you enjoyed about the conference,” – I thought sure, no problem. However, I’m finding it difficult to narrow my thoughts down to just a couple.
First let me say thank you for allowing me to represent CUMC as an equalization member. I not only was able to see firsthand how things are handled at the conference level, but also was able to be part of a few awesome worship services. The speakers were phenomenal, and the praise music was very uplifting. There’s something special about being a part of 1500+ people all worshiping and singing praises to our Lord all together. I’d have to say that was my favorite part of the whole weekend.
On one evening there was a service to ordain seventeen new people. That also was an emotional service. There were young and old, women and men. Some were ordained as deacons, some as elders, and some as local pastors. There were many of us there, as well as their families, to watch these men and women give their lives to God.
I must also add that there was a lot of legislature topics to be covered. Some of them we did from home before the conference via Zoom. I know these kinds of things need to be dealt with, but I can’t say I’m a fan of that part.
There were a LOT of opinions given on many different subjects and then a vote was taken on each of them. The one positive thing I can say about the legislation is that barring one incident, everyone spoke to others with respect, whether agreeing or disagreeing with the motion.
Of course, I can’t end this without saying I had some very fun, helpful roommates that made me feel welcome and showed me around. Thank you, Pastor Gary, Reba, and Edie, for such a great few days and welcoming me to the United Methodist Annual Conference!
UMW News
Strawberries, strawberries, strawberries! Yes we have lots and lots of strawberries now frozen and stored for the August Strawberry Social.
Do you remember the old adage “Many hands make light the work”? Well, we really had a large group working on the washing, hulling, chopping, and freezing of the berries. Even with all the workers, it took two hours to process two flats. But the joy of working, talking, and laughing made the time go by fast! Next month we will devote to the final organization of the social and bake sale.
Shalom, Edie
Fresh Flowers
Keep bringing the fresh flowers from around your house. They have been looking so nice the past few Sundays in our Sanctuary and Fellowship Hall!
Thought and Humor
Having just celebrated a birthday and being just a few years from my 80th, I found this not only amusing but true and how I will attempt to live the last years of my life. So, I am sharing it with you. Pastor Gary.
Question: At your years what sort of changes are you feeling at 80?
Reply:
After loving my parents, my siblings, my spouse, my children, and my friends, I have now started loving myself.
I have realized that I am not “Atlas.” The world does not rest on my shoulders.
I have stopped bargaining with vegetables and fruit vendors. A few pennies more is not going to break me. But it might help the poor fellow save for his daughter’s school needs.
I leave my server a big tip. The extra money might bring a smile to her face. She is toiling much harder for a living than I am.
I stopped telling the elderly that they have already told that story many times. The story makes them walk down memory lane and revives their past.
I have learned not to correct people even when I know they are wrong. The onus of making everyone perfect is not on me. Peace is more precious than perfection.
I give compliments freely and generously. Compliments are the mood enhancer not only for the recipient, but also for me. And a small tip for the recipient of a complaint, never, never turn it down, just say “thank you.”
I have learned not to bother about a crease or a spot on my shirt. Personality speaks louder than appearances.
I have learned to live each day as if it is the last. After all it may be the last.
I am doing what makes me happy. I am responsible for my happiness, and I owe it to myself. Happiness is a choice. You can be happy at any time, just choose to be!
I have decided to share this for all my friends. Why do we have to wait to be 60 or 70 or 80, why can’t we practice this at any age and stage of life.
Sometimes I laugh so hard tears run down my legs!
Claybanks United Methodist Church 