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Love God and Love our neighbor as ourselves.
To bring the hope of God's kingdom to earth by being the hands of Jesus through
Spiritual Educational Medical Ecological/Agricultural Economic Development means.
To be a convergence of God's grace to... Make Disciples Mobilize Leaders Meet Human Needs Multiply Churches
(locally, nationally, and globally)
Everywhere the river flows, it brings life
June 26, 2020
Included in this packet:
2020 Annual Conference Agenda
2020 Report of the Ministerial Education & Guidance Board
The River Conference 2019 Financial Report
2019-2020 Report from the Board of Directors
Conference Election Results (LINK TO TRC LEADERSHIP WEB PAGE)
Superintendent’s Report
2020 Fall Leadership Summit Preview
2020-2021 Appointments
Free Methodist World Missions Report (LINK TO VIDEO UPDATE)
Free Methodist Foundation Report
Standing Rules and Procedures of the Annual Conference
10:00 AM Welcome / Annual Conference Introduction Superintendent Amelia Cleveland-Traylor
10:05 AM Prayer Superintendent Michael Traylor
10:10 AM Introduction of New CMCs and Elders Bishop Matt Whitehead
10:12 AM Bishops Report Bishop Matt Whitehead
10:32 AM State of the Conference Superintendents Dr. Amelia Cleveland-Traylor & Dr. Michael Traylor
11:05 AM Break Out Sessions with District Leaders
June 10, 2020 Page 1 of 2
2020 REPORT OF THE MINISTERIAL EDUCATION
AND GUIDANCE BOARD To The River Conference’s Annual Conference Mr. Chairman, the Ministerial Education and Guidance Board recommends:
1. That the following persons be received by transfer: Jonathan Bergman [E] from the South Atlantic Conference Mark Bickerton [E] from the Oasis Conference Howard Biemeck [D] from the Oasis Conference William L. Byllesby [E] from the Oasis Conference Vanessa Chitwood [E] from the Pacific Northwest
Conference Donald W. Crider [E] from the Oasis Conference Loren Edwards [E] from the Oasis Conference Pam Edwards [E] from the Oasis Conference Nyandwi Emmanuel [E] from the Oasis Conference Scott Faris [E] from the Oasis Conference Tari Faris [E] from the Oasis Conference Ben Forsberg [E] from the Oasis Conference Daniel Goddard from the North Michigan Conference David Gonzalez [CMC] from the Oasis Conference Jose P. Gonzalez [E] from the Oasis Conference Lyndon Duff Gorle [E] from the Oasis Conference Patrick Herzer [E] from The Reach Provisional Conference Myyenga Kamulet [E] from the Congo Conference Celestin Kikuni [E] from the Oasis Conference Robert Lafler [E] from the Oasis Conference Jae Lesley [E] from the Oasis Conference Darrell MacLearn [E] from the Oasis Conference
Abwe Mmbekalo [E] from the Oasis Conference Abwe M’mundabatu [E] from the Oasis Conference Muzero Muhoza [E] from the Oasis Conference Paul E. Nelson [E] from the Oasis Conference Kenji Nitta [E] from the Pacific Coast Japanese Conference Willy Nkurunziza [E] from the Oasis Conference Troy Powers [E] from the Oasis Conference Juan Rivera [E] from the Oasis Conference Rebecca Rivera [E] from the Oasis Conference Jose Rodriguez [CMC] from the Oasis Conference Rodimiro Romero [E] from the Oasis Conference Mushishi Sebasonera (E) from the Congo Conference Hector Siqueiros [E] from the Oasis Conference Tharcisse M. Shaka [E] from the Oasis Conference Willian Henry Stewart, Jr. [E] from the Oasis Conference Kathleen Terrell [E] from the Oasis Conference Robert Terrell [E] from the Oasis Conference Sebihendo Eliezal Vandu [CMC] from the Oasis
Conference Bobby Wingate [E] from the Oasis Conference Kae Wingate [E] from the Oasis Conference Thomas G. World [E] from the Oasis Conference
2. That the following person(s) be received as Conference Ministerial Candidate: Alicia Krantz
2a. That the following person(s) be reinstated as Conference Ministerial Candidate: Dan Lincoln
3. That the following persons be continued as Conference Ministerial Candidates: Kelly Culver (2) David Gonzalez (2) Kyle Greenwood (2)
Bradley Mutton (2) Jose Rodriguez (9) Francisco Samaniego (4)
Eliezer Vandu Sebihendo (2) Surendra Kumar Sunkari (2)
4. That the following persons be discontinued as Conference Ministerial Candidates: Larissa Bell Cory Brooks Johnson Silumbwe
5. That the following persons be admitted into full membership and ordained elder: Mario Juarez
5b. That the following persons be received as licensed pastors: Nahimana Roto Samson Nyakagabo Fidel Rwemere Ngolo Saidi
5c. That the following persons be renewed as licensed pastors: Alan Hinson Dunia Mmbelulwa Jesse Valles Randy Vasquez
The River Conference 2020 MEG Report cont.
Wednesday, June 10, 2020 Page 2 of 2
5d. That the following persons be given changes of status/appointment to their credentials: Covenant of Restoration Completed None Restored to Full Credentials None Expelled None Withdrawn from Conference and Denomination None Reinstated to Itinerant Service None Credentials Placed on Deposit None Released for Ministry Outside the Denomination: None Deceased: Michael Hockett (August 21, 2019) Dellos Louden (November 24, 2019)
6. That the following persons be given a Certificate of Standing with view to transfer: Tommy Dennis [E] to Church of the Nazarene North Arkansas District Harlan Humiston [E] to Church of the Nazarene West Texas District Jennifer Starr-Reivitt [E] to Sierra Pacific Conference
7. That the following persons be located: None
8. That the following persons continue to be located: Gerald Burke [E] Bill Frazier [D] Wesley Hankins [E] Matthew Hansen [E] Eldon Hawkins [E]
Frank Higdon [D] William Hoffman [D] David Jeffery [E] Julie Jenkins [E] Merle Johnson [E]
Jason Lohse [E] William Martin [E] Carlos Mauritz [E] William Reading [E] Ed Riffe [E]
James Ruby [E] Daniel Sigler [E] Warren Swartz [E]
9. The ministerial education and guidance board reviewed and affirmed the character of the located deacons and located elders
10. The ministerial education and guidance board has considered the character and performance of all ordained ministers and affirms the integrity and Christian discipleship of the ministerial members of the conference.
KEY E] Ordained Elder [D] Ordained Deacon [CMC] Conference Ministerial Candidate [LP] Licensed Pastor AP Associate Pastor ASP Assistant Pastor ASM Assistant in Special Ministries
CM Children’s Ministries CP Church Planter CPP Church Planting Project FM Family Ministries FMWM Free Methodist World Missions MM Minister of Music MY Minister of Youth
SMS Student Ministries Support UM Urban Minister
2019 FINANCIAL REPORT
JAN—DEC 19
INCOME Conference Tithe $ 817,474.51 Gift-Donation 8,179.35 Investment Income 20,315.13 Total Income $ 845,968.99
EXPENSE Conference Staff $ 267,786.39 Ministry Staff & Directors 59,025.00 Maintenance & Operations 473,937.21 Administrative 24,404.70 Conference Ministry / 4Ms 75,657.50 FMC Denomination (EPP) 225,444.00 Total Expense $1,126,254.80
NET INCOME (LOSS) ($280,285.81)
2019-2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS REPORT
CHURCH BUILDINGS & CONGREGATIONS
TO ACCEPT AND WELCOME AS A FULL SOCIETY IN THE RIVER CONFERENCE: ♦ Ebenezer FMC in Phoenix, Arizona with Pastor Willy Nkurunziza ♦ Village Church in Angel Fire New Mexico with Pastor Jae Leslie ♦ Hope and Good News Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado with Pastor Roto Samson ♦ Tha Myx in Grand Junction, Colorado with Pastor Randy Vasquez ♦ Outpost Church in Meridian, Idaho with Pastor Jeff Auw
THE RIVER CONFERENCE WILL ADMIT THE CHURCHES AND PASTORS OF THE CURRENT OASIS CONFERENCE OF THE FREE METHODIST CHURCH USA INTO THE RIVER CONFERENCE. (Merger of the two conferences was effective as of January 20, 2020): ♦ Light and Life in Chandler, Arizona with Pastor David Gonzalez ♦ Renuevo Church in Glendale, Arizona with Pastor Rody Romero ♦ Luz y Vida Para la Familia CPP in Nogales, Arizona with Pastor Jose Rodriguez ♦ Citizens Church in Phoenix, Arizona with Pastor Ben Forsberg ♦ Ebenezer FMC in Phoenix, Arizona with Pastor Willy Nkurunziza ♦ Light and Life in Phoenix, Arizona with Pastor Robert Terrell ♦ Light and Life in Prescott, Arizona with Pastor Robert Terrell ♦ Luz y Vida Para la Familia in Tucson, Arizona with Pastor Hector Siqueiros ♦ Ebenezer FMC CPP in Albuquerque, New Mexico with Pastor Tharcisse Shaka ♦ Village Church in Angel Fire, New Mexico with Pastor Jae Lesley ♦ Emmanuel Pines Camp in Prescott, Arizona with Pastor Kathi Terrell
PROPERTY SALES ♦ To allow Caldwell FMC to sell a portion of their property adjacent to the church building. (NOTE:
Pastor Salomon Ruano recused himself from this discussion and abstained from the vote due to a conflict of interest.) The Board decided to take the recommendation of the Property Team and NOT sell the property adjacent to Caldwell FMC.
CHURCH PLANTING PROJECTS
APPROVAL THE FOLLOWING CHURCH PLANT PROJECTS: ♦ Amarillo FMC in Amarillo, Texas with Pastor Fidel Nwerema, sponsored by the Abilene Portland
Ave FMC ♦ Emmanuel Church in Laredo, Texas with Pastor Alejandro Hernandez ♦ EPIC Church in Corpus Christi Texas, EPIC with Pastor James Ford ♦ Hosanna FM in Dallas Texas with Pastor Ngolo Saidi, sponsored by Abilene Portland Ave FMC ♦ The Table at Oak Cliff in Dallas, Texas with Pastor Calia Rodriguez
2019-2020 Board of Directors Report continued
DECISION TO DISCONTINUE THE FOLLOWING CHURCH PLANTS: ♦ Shalom Christian Fellowship in Dallas, Texas ♦ This Life Church in Conifer, Colorado ♦ Vietnamese FMC in Dallas, Texas and consider it a Preaching Point in Dallas, Texas with Pastor
Chin Nguyen
OTHER DECISIONS ♦ Adopted the 2020 Budget of $963,210.76 ♦ Approval of the slate of nominees for the TRC Nominating Committee ♦ Approval of a Pastoral Residency at First Free Methodist Church in Spokane, Washington.
Respectfully submitted by the Board of Directors of The River Conference
NAME STATUS AFFIRMED BY THE
ONLINE VOTE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS # OF VOTES
Jose Garcia* Elder 94
Abwe Mmbekalo Elder 82
Salomon Ruano* Elder 94
Michael Spottsville* Elder 106
*Elected to TRC Board of Directors for a 3-year term
FINANCE TEAM
Howard Billings Lay Leader 106
Marla Hamilton Lay Leader 101
Magda Ruano Elder 95
Tim Trier Elder 103
MINISTERIAL APPOINTMENTS COMMITTEE
James Leman Elder 111
MINISTERIAL EDUCATION AND GUIDANCE BOARD
Jeff Auw Elder 108
Jason Chavez Elder 101
Fanny Lopez Lay Leader 105
NOMINATING COMMITTEE (ONE YEAR TERM)
Mark Douglas Elder 106
James Ford Elder 102
Ben Forsberg Elder 103
James Leman Elder 105
Ali Mitachi Elder 101
Ryan Stoops Elder 105
SECRETARY (ONE YEAR TERM)
Deb Baggett Lay Leader 106
TREASURER (ONE YEAR TERM)
Sally Trager Lay Leader 105
The
Conference
The Art of Neighboring
SATURDAY Colorado/New Mexico
SATURDAY Spokane
SATURDAY Boise
SATURDAY Texas
SATURDAY Arizona
Page 1
2019-2020 SUPERINTENDENT’S
REPORT
VISION -- MISSION -- CORE VALUES The River Conference oversees a network of churches within the Free Methodist Church, USA.
VALUES: Love God and Love our neighbor as ourselves.
VISION: To bring the hope of God's kingdom to earth by being the hands of Jesus. Our vision encompasses 5 intentional means: Spiritual, Educational, Medical, Ecological/Agricultural, and Economic Development
MISSION: To be a convergence of God's grace cascading to: Make Disciples, Mobilize Leaders, Meet Human Needs, and Multiply Churches
The last 12 months have seen significant challenges in the way that we minister through our churches and to our communities. No one could have foreseen that public gatherings would be suspended due to a global pandemic or that public outcry and protests for law enforcement reform would see curfews and military vehicles roaming our nation's largest cities. These things, among others, have forced The River Conference and its churches to minister differently. In response, a vast majority of congregations developed or expanded their online capabilities. Some churches actually widened their influence and impact.
The Free Methodist Church was able to cover the cost of our apportionments to the denomination for three months so that we could use those funds to bless congregations who were experiencing hardship during the COVID-19 slowdown. The conference was blessed to give over $38,000 to support ministry and personnel costs. Additionally, TRC intervened with the Free Methodist Foundation to change the loans to interest-only options for those who desired it. We continue with an attitude of thanksgiving and humility, understanding that God continues to provide for the churches.
MAKING DISCIPLES The core of our mission is to make disciples, or fully devoted followers of Jesus. Overall, TRC grew and added disciples. In February of 2020, the Board of Directors met for a retreat with the goal to identify one or two "Wildly Important Goals" or WIGs. A Wildly Important Goal is an accomplishment that would dramatically affect every aspect of the conference. Two WIGs were identified:
♦ Every lead pastor is personally involved in leading people to Christ.
♦ Every TRC church member understands his or her membership to mean personal responsibility to engage in life-giving relationships with their neighbors.
Page 2
To that end, we developed the Neighboring Challenge, which is a challenge for our pastors and members to take the great commission and great commandments to make disciples by loving their neighbor as Christ loved us. The challenge will be explained through our regional Leadership Summits this fall.
MOBILIZING LEADERS The missional emphasis of this year is mobilizing leaders. Last year, we focused on multiplying churches and soon recognized that we needed to develop more leaders for new works. The challenge was then to develop systems that identify, equip, and empower leaders. We are pleased to offer our pilot Pastoral Residency Program. In collaboration with Spokane First FMC, we are offering a yearlong residency program where pastors are immersed in ministry experiences, preparing them to enter the appointment system at its conclusion.
The Team of Teams regional teams were also launched this year based upon "loving, learning, and leading" with the goal to encourage one another but also to develop regionally based ministry plans. The District Leaders themselves have undergone over a year of training and have been empowered to perform many of the tasks typically done by superintendents. Due to the size of the conference, we needed to develop alternative structures for oversight and encouragement. Mark Douglas (CO/NM), James Ford (S TX), Ben Forsberg (AZ), James Leman (Spokane), Ali Mitachi (N TX), and Ryan Stoops (Boise) are serving TRC churches as District Leaders and have been incredibly fruitful, all while attending to significant local church responsibilities.
We are excited to announce that the River Conference Institute will offer courses in collaboration with Asbury Seminary to equip those in ministry for ordination. Pastor Kasey Martin has been directing this initiative and will deliver an inexpensive and accessible means for ministry preparation. Plans are being made to eventually offer the courses in multiple languages.
MULTIPLYING CHURCHES 2020 saw the addition of six societies from the former Oasis Conference, along with two church plants and Emmanuel Pines Camp. Ebenezer FMC in Phoenix has, since the merger, planted a church in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Our Abilene, Texas Portland Ave FMC now oversees two church plants. One in Amarillo and the other in Dallas, both worshiping close to 100 prior to COVID-19 restrictions.
The Village Church in Angel Fire, New Mexico, Outpost Church in Meridian, Idaho, as well as Tha Myx in Grand Junction, Colorado, transition from church plants to full societies.
We welcomed Hope and Good News Ministries in Colorado Springs, Colorado who transferred from the Act 12:24 Conference.
We saw the launch of EPIC Church Plant in Corpus Christi, Texas.
We continually look for new opportunities and nurture the 10 church plants under TRC's care.
Page 3
MEETING HUMANITARIAN NEEDS The humanitarian crisis along the US-Mexico border finds thousands of people, fleeing persecution, poverty, and violence, seeking opportunity in the US. One of our churches in Laredo, led by Pastor Jose Garcia, is leading our efforts to provide basic needs for refugees. He is working with ministries on both sides of the border. We are seeking greater support for the needs that are rapidly changing in this highly charged situation.
TRC churches used the COVID-19 crisis as an opportunity to be a blessing in the midst of uncertainty. Citizen's Church in Phoenix challenged its members to raise money that would be matched by the church to bless those outside the church who are economically fragile. The congregation, facing their own economic challenges inherent with COVID-19 recession, was able to raise almost $10,000 so that the church was able to bless the community.
God has been so faithful to The River Conference. Last year our fervent prayer was to create new works. God supplied us with 10. That is over a 20% increase! Blessings are all around us. We are so incredibly grateful for the work that our churches are doing on a daily basis in their communities.
May God bless the work of His kingdom through the efforts of The River Conference of the Free Methodist Church.
The
Conference
The Art of Neighboring
SATURDAY Colorado/New Mexico
SATURDAY Spokane
SATURDAY Boise
SATURDAY Texas
SATURDAY Arizona
2020 APPOINTMENTS
Wednesday, June 10, 2020 1
LOCATION YEARS SERVED PASTOR(S)
Co-Superintendents (3) Amelia Cleveland-Traylor [E] (3) Michael Traylor [E] Abilene, Portland Avenue FMC (5) Ali Mitachi [E] (2) Athumani Mlima [E] AP Albuquerque, Ebenezer FMC CPP1 (1) Tharcisse Shaka [E] CP Amarillo, FMC CPP (1) Nyakagabo Fidel Rwemera [LP] CP Angle Fire, Village Church1 (3) Jae Lesley [E] Aurora, Living Tower Ministry Center (2) Timothy Trier [E] (3) Surendra Kumar Sunkari [CMC] Aurora, Meadowood (12) Michael Spottsville [E] Boise, Jerusalem Church (2) Muyenga Kamulete [E] Bonners Ferry, Springs of Living Water (6) Alan Hinson [LP] Caldwell, Caldwell FMC (18) James Porter [E] Co-Pastor (18) Sharon Porter [E] Co-Pastor (16) Marci Harrel [E] MM (2) Kelly Culver [CMC] Caldwell, Deer Flat (9) Dave McGarrah [E] (5) Ryan Stoops [E] AP (7) Carol Whitbeck [E] MM (7) Phil Whitbeck [E] ASM (3) Martin Flaherty [E] MY Caldwell, Iglesia Damasco (12) Salomon Ruano [E] (5) Magda Ruano [E] ASP Chandler, Light & Life1 (4) David Gonzalez [CMC] Chewelah, Abundant Life Fellowship (3) Brenda Nagunst [E] Clarkston, Living Heritage (1) Dan Goddard [E] (1) Colorado Springs, Hope and Good News Ministry (1) Nahimana Roto Samson [LP] Colorado Springs, Fresh Wind Community (13) Mark Garcia [E] Colville, FMC of Colville (9) Richard Dick Dickinson [E] (2) Bradley Mutton [CMC] AP Corpus Christi, EPIC Church CPP (1) James Ford [E] CP
The River Conference 2020 Appointments cont.
Wednesday, June 10, 2020 2
LOCATION YEARS SERVED PASTOR(S)
Corpus Christi, Iglesia Evangelica (35) Celestino Green [E] Corpus Christi, Lakeview (33) Timothy Jewett [E] Dallas, Hosanna FMC CPP (1) Ngolo Saidi [LP] CP Dallas, The Table at Oak Cliff CPP (1) Calia Rodriguez [E] CP Denver, Tha Myx (7) Joe Aragon [E] (7) Dave Atkins [E] UM Fruitland, West Valley (9) Doug Roberts [E] (2) Miguel Lopez [E] Glendale, Renuevo Church1 (10) Rodimiro Rody Romero [E] Grand Junction, Tha Myx (5) Randy Vasquez [LP] Hemphill, Hemphill FMC (16) Matthew Mote [E] Co-Pastor (5) Virginia Ginny Mote [E] Co-Pastor Houston, Fuente de Vida CPP (2) Under the Superintendents Houston, Joy FMC CPP (2) Dunia Mmbelulwa [LP] Lakewood, River Church (1) Patrick Rick Herzer [E] (2) Kyle Greenwood [CMC] AP Laredo, Primera Iglesia Metodista Libre2 (6) Jose Garcia [E] Laredo, Immanuel Church CPP (1) Alejandro Hernandez [E] CP McAllen, Praise Christian Fellowship (10) Rae Beaumont Butch Guasa [E] Mead, Timberview Christian Fellowship (1) Kenji Nitta [E] (5) Stephan Fritsch [E] AP Meridian, Outpost Church (4) Jeff Auw [E] (1) Vanessa Chitwood [E] AP Midland FMC (29) Jesse Valles [LP] Missoula, Faith Harvest Fellowship (16) David Hamilton [E] Nampa Iglesia Restauracion Damasco (5) Mario Juarez [E] Nogales, Luz y Vida Para la Familia CPP1 (9) Jose Rodriguez [CMC] CP Pendleton, Pendleton FMC (22) Scott Little [E] (3) Christopher Kaufman [E] MY Phoenix, Citizen’s Church1 (9) Ben Forsberg [E] Phoenix, Ebenezer FMC1 (2) Willy Nkurunziza [E] (2) Eliezal Vandu Sebihendo [CMC] AP (1) Mushishi Sabasonera [E] AP
The River Conference 2020 Appointments cont.
Wednesday, June 10, 2020 3
LOCATION YEARS SERVED PASTOR(S)
Phoenix, Light & Life1 (1) Robert Terrell [E] (4) Juan Rivera [E] AP (4) Rebecca Rivera [E] AP Phoenix, Light & Life African Ministry1 (7) Abwe M’mundabatu [E] AP (4) Celestin Kikuni [E] AP (2) Abwe Mmbekalo [E] AP (1) Bobby Wingate [E] AP (1) Kae Wingate [E] AP Post Falls, Steadfast Church (20) Steven Wilson [E] (17) Verlene Wilson [E] AP Priest River, Living Hope (4) Kasey Martin [E] Prescott, Light and Life1 (6) Robert Terrell [E] Pueblo, Light & Life (2) Mark Douglas [E] Rockwall, Rockwall FMC (25) Timothy Greenawalt [E] Rosenberg, First FMC (9) Macario Segura [E] (3) Maria Segura [E] ASP San Antonio, Grace and Truth Church (11) Jose Segura [E] San Antonio, Tapestry Church CPP (2) Clay Utley [E] Co-Pastor CP (2) Heather Utley [E] Co-Pastor CP Spokane, Downriver Church (5) Pete Kopplin [E] Spokane, First FMC (14) James Leman [E] (6) Alaina Zemke [E] ASM (4) Jason Armstrong [E] ASM Spokane Valley, Opportunity Christian Fellowship (18) Dan Bonney [E] (5) Philip Amene [E] AP Sugarland, Casa de Alabanza (6) Javier Rodriguez [E] Thornton, Amazing Grace Community (12) Kent Replogle [E] (2) Jason Chavez [E] AP Tucson, Luz y Vida Para la Familia1 (30) Hector Siqueiros [E] 1 Formerly in the Oasis Conference and joined TRC with the merger January 2020 2 Formerly Viento de Dios Closed: Conifer, This Life Church CPP, Dallas, Shalom Christian Fellowship CPP, Dallas Vietnamese CPP Withdrew from the Conference: Arlington, Life Community Church (affiliate), Douglas County, Journey Church transferred to the REACH Provisional Conference, South Jordan, Missio Dei (affiliate)
The River Conference 2020 Appointments cont.
Wednesday, June 10, 2020 4
SPECIAL APPOINTMENTS AND RELATIONSHIPS RETIRED Bob Basham [E] Ray Bates [E] Duane Bell [E] Howard Biemeck [D] William L. Byllesby [E] Julio Castillo [E] Maria Castillo [E] Kay Cole [E] Donald W. Crider [E]
Thomas Dunbar [E] Loren Edwards [E] Pamela Edwards [E] James Ferguson [E] Jose P. Gonzalez [E] Gene Greenawalt [E] Bruce Johnson [E] Greg Knox [E] Richard Maurer [E]
Earl Morgan [E] Muzero Muhoza [E] James Myers [E] Paul E. Nelson [E] Robert Pueblos [E] Jose Quezada [E] Les Rose [E] Teresa Shannon [E] Norman Slosted [E]
Kathryn Smith-Martin [E] John Southwick [E] Wes Sthole [E] Matthew Thomas [E] Marlow Thompson [E] Robert Turner [E] Lloyd Vance [E] Thomas G. World [E]
CONFERENCE EVANGELIST Dennis Jeffery [E] Fred Lynch [E] Chris Sloan [E]
DENOMINATIONAL SERVICE Ron Baird [E] – Institutional Chaplain Jonathan Bergman [E] – Institutional Chaplain Mark Bickerton [E] - Institutional Chaplain Michael Davis [E] - Institutional Chaplain Thomas Duckworth [E] - Institutional Chaplain Scott Faris [E] - Institutional Chaplain Lyndon Duff Gorle [E] - Institutional Chaplain Holly Hallmark [E] - Institutional Chaplain Michael Hill [E] – Institutional Chaplain Lynn Huffman [E] - Institutional Chaplain Peter Imathiu [E] – Institutional Chaplain Rick Kerr [E] - Institutional Chaplain Robert Lafler [E] - Institutional Chaplain
Chinh Nguyen [E] – TRC Preaching Point David Pahs [E] - Chaplain US Navy Troy Powers [E] - Institutional Chaplain Anthony Randall [E] - Chaplain US Army Lane Sandifer [E] - Chaplain US Army Rick Snodgrass [E] – TRC Church Plant Director Arnaldo Soto [E] – Institutional Chaplain Henry Stewart [E] - Institutional Chaplain Carol Stickney [E] - VISA in Myanmar Kathleen Terrell [E] – Emmanuel Pines Camp Director Linda Vecchiarelli [E] - Civil Air Patrol Chaplain Ronald Ward [E] – TRC Preaching Point Barbara Wharton [E] - Institutional Chaplain
RELEASED FOR MINISTRY OUTSIDE THE DENOMINATION Jeff Baxter [E] – Serving another denomination or independent
church Vern Burgess [E] - Serving another denomination or independent
church Jose Castillo [E] – Serving another denomination or independent
church Mike Chong-Perkinson [E] – Serving another denomination or
independent church Ronald Christian [E] - Christian Living Ministries John Crow [E] - Serving another denomination or independent
church Getahun Demessie [E] - Released for secular work Tari Faris [E] - Released for secular work Alexander Bahati Gasonera [E] – Released for secular work Ted Haggard [E] – Serving another denomination or independent
church
Darrell MacLearn [E] – Released for secular work Church Coach Marisol De Jesus Perez [E] – Released for secular work Teresa Perkinson [E] – Serving another denomination or
independent church Daniel Riley [E] – Released for secular work Brenda Sanchez [E] – Released for secular work Daniel Sanchez [E] – Released for secular work Anthony Simoncini [E] – Serving another denomination or
independent church Dwight Spotts [E] - Serving another denomination or independent
church Arron Swenson [E] – Serving another denomination or
independent church Jervaun Trier [E] – Released for secular work Steve Wilson, Jr [E] – Serving Christians Karate Ministry Joseph Woodruff [E] – Released for secular work
DECEASED Michael Hockett [E] (08/21/19) Dellos Louden [E] (11/24/19)
AWAITING APPOINTMENT Nyandwi Emmanuel [E] Francisco Samaniego [CMC]
LEAVE OF ABSENCE Jose Rodriguez [E]
CHURCH PLANTERS James Ford [E] Alejandro Hernandez [E] Dunia Mmbelulwa [LP]
Calia Rodriguez [E] Jose Rodriguez [CMC] Nyakagabo Fidel Rwemera [LP]
Ngolo Saidi [LP] Tharcisse Shaka [E] Clay Utley [E]
Heather Utley [E]
The River Conference 2020 Appointments cont.
Wednesday, June 10, 2020 5
CONFERENCE ACTIONS RECEIVED BY TRANSFER Jonathan Bergman [E] from the South Atlantic Conference Mark Bickerton [E] from the Oasis Conference Howard Biemeck [D] from the Oasis Conference William L. Byllesby [E] from the Oasis Conference Vanessa Chitwood [E] from the Pacific Northwest Conference Donald W. Crider [E] from the Oasis Conference Loren Edwards [E] from the Oasis Conference Pam Edwards [E] from the Oasis Conference Nyandwi Emmanuel [E] from the Oasis Conference Scott Faris [E] from the Oasis Conference Tari Faris [E] from the Oasis Conference Ben Forsberg [E] from the Oasis Conference Daniel Goddard [E] from the North Michigan Conference David Gonzalez [CMC] from the Oasis Conference Jose P. Gonzalez [E] from the Oasis Conference Lyndon Duff Gorle [E] from the Oasis Conference Patrick Herzer [E] from The Reach Provisional Conference Myyenga Kamulet [E] from the Congo Conference Celestin Kikuni [E] from the Oasis Conference Robert Lafler [E] from the Oasis Conference Jae Lesley [E] from the Oasis Conference Darrell MacLearn [E] from the Oasis Conference
Abwe Mmbekalo [E] from the Oasis Conference Abwe M’mundabatu [E] from the Oasis Conference Muzero Muhoza [E] from the Oasis Conference Paul E. Nelson [E] from the Oasis Conference Kenji Nitta [E] from the Pacific Coast Japanese Conference Willy Nkurunziza [E] from the Oasis Conference Troy Powers [E] from the Oasis Conference Juan Rivera [E] from the Oasis Conference Rebecca Rivera [E] from the Oasis Conference Jose Rodriguez [CMC] from the Oasis Conference Rodimiro Romero [E] from the Oasis Conference Mushishi Sebasonera (E) from the Congo Conference Hector Siqueiros [E] from the Oasis Conference Willian Henry Stewart, Jr. [E] from the Oasis Conference Kathleen Terrell [E] from the Oasis Conference Robert Terrell [E] from the Oasis Conference Shaka M Tharcisse [E] from the Oasis Conference Sebihendo Eliezal Vandu [CMC] from the Oasis Conference Bobby Wingate [E] from the Oasis Conference Kae Wingate [E] from the Oasis Conference Thomas G. World [E] from the Oasis Conference
RECEIVED AS CONFERENCE MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE Alison Krantz
REINSTATED AS CONFERENCE MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE Dan Lincoln
DISCONTINUED AS CONFERENCE MINISTERIAL CANDIDATES Larissa Bell Cory Brooks Johnson Silumbwe
ADMITTED INTO FULL MEMBERSHIP AND ORDAINED ELDER Mario Juarez
RECEIVED AS LICENSED PASTORS Nahimana Roto Samson Nyakagabo Fidel Rwemere Ngolo Saidi
CHANGES OF STATUS/APPOINTMENT TO THEIR CREDENTIALS: Covenant of Restoration Completed None Restored to Full Credentials None Expelled None Withdrawn from Conference and Denomination, at own request None Withdrawn from Conference and Denomination, under complaint or charges None Reinstated to Itinerant Service None Credentials Placed on Deposit None Released for Ministry Outside the Denomination: None Deceased: Michael Hockett (August 21, 2019) Dellos Louden (November 24, 2019)
GIVE A CERTIFICATE OF STANDING WITH VIEW TO TRANSFER Tommy Dennis [E] – to the Church of the Nazarene Harlan Humiston [E] to Church of the Nazarene
Jennifer Starr-Reivitt [E] to the Sierra Pacific Conference
LOCATED THIS YEAR: None
KEY [E] Ordained Elder [D] Ordained Deacon [CMC] Conference Ministerial Candidate [LP] Licensed Pastor AP Associate Pastor ASP Assistant Pastor
ASM Assistant in Special Ministries CM Children’s Ministries CP Church Planter CPP Church Planting Project FM Family Ministries FMWM Free Methodist World Missions
MM Minister of Music MY Minister of Youth SMS Student Ministries Support UM Urban Ministry
Mobilizing the Global Church through Missionary Support Free Methodist missionaries extend the mission reach of the FMCUSA into all of the world. Most often, their primary purpose is to serve international leaders as they seek to establish the Free Methodist Church in their own countries. In their disciple-making role, our missionaries contribute to church planting movements, leadership development, and where appropriate, pioneer new work.
Each missionary (or missionary family) has a specific level of support needed to serve in their ministry context. Missionary support includes a fixed amount common to all Free Methodist extended-term missionaries including salary, insurance and basic benefits. Also included is an additional variable amount based on their specific field expenses and world area budgets. This amount includes children’s education, rent, utilities, travel, etc.
Empowering International Leaders to Establish Transformational Churches through Church Planting & Development
Free Methodist financial resources are focused on developing leaders,
churches and ministries in more than 95 countries. Church Planting & Development contributions
resource these priorities:
•empowering fruitful and emerging leaders through training and spiritual support,
• establishing life-giving and multiplying churches for new and existing believers, and
• fueling transformational ministries to expand education, alleviate poverty, fight for justice and bring wholeness.
The River Conference 2019 Missions Giving through FMWM*
Missionary Support $46,086 Asia Area Director $13,900 Land $6,000 Gomez $5,868 Snyder $4,253 Hall $3,860 Carol $3,142 Gilmore $2,588 Keith & Julie $1,800 Lorenz $1,300 Yerger $1,084 Clemente $1,000 Persing $1,000 IME Executive Director $291 Church Planting & Development $18,473 Haiti $10,100 Central Mexico $2,652 Egypt $2,247 Nigeria $1,446 Myanmar $600 Mexican Conference $413 Venezuela $325 Jordan $300 Middle East Area $291 Latin America Area $100 Other Missions Giving $34,451 Bishop Crisis Response $13,906 Asia Area - Love Asia Fund $5,000 Missions Needed Most $3,394 Refugee Assistance-AIM $2,700 Set Free $2,700 Eden Reforestation Project, $2,695 Comm CH Planting Latin Am Area $1,141 Myanmar Special Projects $1,000 Heavenly Treasures $910 Burundi Kibuye Hope Hospital $600 Freedom Sunday Offering $405 Grand Total $99,011
* includes only funds given through FMWM
makes disciples by mobilizing the global church and empowering international leaders to establish transformational churches.
Free Methodist World Missions is positioned to empower individuals, local churches and conferences to connect with God’s heart for the world by offering the following:
Cross-Cultural Consultation Through a global network of leaders FMWM can provide current perspectives on missiology, tools to teach a healthy biblical worldview and methodologies for bridging different cultures in a local community and the world.
Giving Avenues FMWM provides avenues for individuals, churches and conferences to give toward the support of missionaries, ministry priorities and extra-mile projects.
Assistance is offered with online giving, as well as annual commitments.
FMWM is committed to honoring the financial contributions donors give to the cause of Christ. Structure and procedures are in place to ensure resources: are used for their intended purpose, meet regulatory guidelines, minimize fees and protect the ministry of those we partner with around the world.
Promotional Resources Printed materials, e-letters and online resources are available through FMWM to promote global missions in the local church.
Resources include:
• “Heartbeat” monthly newsletter
• “Hotline” weekly prayer update
• Wide Variety of Videos
• Missionary/country posters
• Missionary prayer cards
• “Missions Alive!” children’s missions curriculum
• Multi-Ethnic Ministry Video Series (with Dialogues and User Guide)
• Reproducible materials
• “Evaluating Our Missions Heart”
Most of the above resources, plus news, stories and information about missionaries and ministries, can be found at www.fmwm.org
Social Media Facebook: Free Methodist World Missions Twitter: fmworldmissions
Missionary Service FMWM provides both employment and volunteer avenues of service for individuals and families desiring to connect with God’s heart for the world internationally.
An experienced FMWM team uses a holistic approach for assessment, preparation and deployment for those who sense God’s call to serve short-term or long-term in global missions.
A multi-stage process begins with an application and references for those seeking to serve for a year or more. Following assessment and clearance, an individualized deployment plan is created, leading to customized preparation. Preparation may include academic coursework, language study and/or reading assignments. Missionaries are also guided in budget preparation and partnership building.
VISA Ministries VISA = Volunteers In Service Abroad
Short-Term VISA Opportunities VISA Teams are sponsored by their local church or conference. Teams collaboratively help the national church with priority construction projects or with English or sports camps, children’s programs, etc. Teams typically engage in a project for 10 to 15 days.
VISA Fast Track Assignments, lasting typically less than six months, are geared for individuals and families. Assignments generally require a specific skill set or training and may include teaching in a theological institution, medical ministry in a hospital or clinic, maintenance or emergency relief.
VISA Voyager Assignments are for people desiring to serve short-term (one to two years), often with the view of long-term service. VISA assignments provide the opportunity to clarify God’s call while meeting a identified ministry need. Ministry appointment is a collaborative process with missionaries and national church leaders and is similar to missionary employment processing.
VISA University = Training Opportunities VISA University programs teach people about the complexities of cross-cultural ministry and how to avoid common pitfalls and better understand God’s heart for the world.
VISA Team Leader Training helps experienced and inexperienced team leaders prepare and equip their team members for effective cross- cultural ministry. Training is offered as host groups are identified.
GLOBAL CHURCH ADVOCACY
Gerald Coates x234
OPERATIONS & INNOVATIONS
Deb Miller x226
MISSIONARY PERSONNEL PLACEMENT
Jonathan Eccles x220
FINANCIAL LIAISON
Jonathan Fajardo x253
COMMUNICATION Jan Coates
x266
Missions Resource
Team
Free Methodist World Missions Leadership Team BISHOPS
Keith Cowart Asia, Europe & Middle East
Linda Adams Latin America
Matt Whitehead Africa
Mike Reynen Africa
Eric Asia
Ricardo Gomez Latin America
Josh Fajardo Europe
Dale Middle East
FREE METHODIST WORLD MISSIONS
770 N HIGH SCHOOL RD, INDIANAPOLIS IN 46214
FMWM.ORG
1.800.342.5531
AREA DIRECTORS
Fund ID (Multiple Items)
Church / Fund 2019 Giving390000 The River $99,011
Bishop Crisis Response $13,906Missionary Support- Asia Area Director $13,900CPD - Haiti $10,100Missionary Support-Land, Darin and Jil $6,000Missionary Support-Gomez $5,868Asia Area - Love Asia Fund $5,000Snyder Missionary Support $4,253VISA-Gene & Minori Hall $3,860Missions Needed Most $3,394Carol - English Teacher $3,142Set Free $2,700Refugee Assistance-AIM $2,700Eden Reforestation Project, $2,695CPD - Central Mexico $2,652VISA-Gilmore, Phil & Debra $2,588CPD - Egypt $2,247Teacher Support-Keith & Julie $1,800CPD - Nigeria $1,446Missionary Support-Lorenz $1,300Extra Mile Project - Community Church Planting - Latin America Area $1,141Missionary Support-Yerger $1,084Missionary Support-Clemente $1,000VISA - Corey & Connie Persing $1,000Myanmar Special Projects $1,000US Miss>-Heavenly Treasures - WVUS016 $910CPD - Myanmar $600Burundi Kibuye Hope Hospital $600CPD - Mexican Conference $413Board of Bishops - Freedom Sunday Offering $405CPD - Venezuela $325CPD - Jordan $300CPD - Middle East Area $291IME Executive Director $291CPD - Latin America Area $100
Grand Total $99,011
FMF S E R V I C E SFinancial
LOCAL CHURCHES$101,504,053
CONFERENCES$23,228,786MISSIONS/HOME MINISTRIES
$61,276,818
FM EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS$69,756,074
NON-FM$76,145,493
TO BE DETERMINED$33,788,128
HUMAN SERVICES$19,041,664
FM OTHER$15,650,722
OTHER FM AFFILIATES$14,061,914
WORLD CONFERENCE$602,181
GIFTS DESIGNATED TO MINISTRYAs of December 31, 2019
TOTAL$415,055,833
800-325-8975 | FMF�nancial.org
FREE METHODIST INVESTMENT & LOAN FUNDHighlights from 2019
FMF S E R V I C E SFinancial
800-325-8975 | FMF�nancial.org
$126,357,764$111,183,438
1,299138
92%$12,754,161
Investment in the FundTotal Dollars LoanedInvestor and Loan RelationshipsLoansReinvestment Rate on Certi�catesLoan Disbursements
*Dollars in millions
Investor Dollars
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
102 113.8 118 120 126
Loan Dollars
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
93.7 99.9 102.5 106 111
Loan Dollars Disbursed
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
7.6 16.7 9.3 15.1 12.7
Reinvestment Rate
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
91% 92% 91% 90% 92%
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STANDING RULES FOR 2020 ANNUAL CONFERENCE
1. The latest edition of Robert’s Rules of Order will be the basis for parliamentary
procedure.
2. The Bar of the Conference shall be the Annual Conference meeting room. Delegates and guests are invited to sit together to build a spirit of fellowship and cooperation. The Secretary of the Annual Conference will review and certify all delegates’ credentials and report same to the Annual Conference. The Secretary will report to the Chair of the Annual Conference that all delegates have registered. When voting is required, the Chair will insure guests who are not registered delegates, but sitting within the Bar, to refrain from voting.
3. An agenda will be adopted as a guide to annual conference sittings. This agenda and all other related documents, read ahead packages, reports and ballots will be placed online on TRC website or sent to each church electronically. Paper copies of the agenda will be made available at Annual Conference.
4. The Secretary of the Annual Conference will take roll by inspection, sign-in sheet, or online registration and presence.
5. Honorary seats in the Annual Conference are automatically granted to the following persons when they are not already voting members: TRC conference ministerial candidates, licensed pastors, pastors and lay representatives from conference-organized church plants and fellowships, chairs of conference committees, members of the TRC Board, visiting missionaries, visiting personnel representing Free Methodist, and the secretary of the Annual Conference.
6. Assistant Secretaries and tellers will be appointed by and report to the Secretary.
7. Voting will be conducted by verbal, hand or ballot voting as required by or directed by the chair. When voting is conducted electronically, the chair will initiate the voting. Each ballot will be identified with the voter’s name, church and delegate status. Voting will conclude seven days after the beginning of voting. The Conference Secretary will review and tally the vote count and report the results to the presiding officer (bishop or appointed chair), who will report the results to the Annual Conference.
8. Correspondence impacting the Annual Conference agenda, actions or schedule is to be submitted to the secretary of the Annual Conference who will refer it to the chair.
9. All motions should be provided in writing to the conference secretary. Motion makers may have no more than three minutes to present the motion and address its rationale. Debate following any motion on the floor will be limited to three minutes per speaker alternating between those speaking in favor and those speaking against the motion.
10. All visiting speakers shall have a maximum of four minutes for their presentation unless coordinated in advance with the chair.
11. The Board will be authorized to transact any business overlooked by the Annual Conference, fill all vacancies on boards and committees, and act as the Executive Committee of the conference as authorized by the latest edition of the Book of Discipline.
12. The minutes of the Annual Conference will be referred to the Board of Directors for review and approval.
13. Permission to speak will be requested by the raised hand and acknowledged by the chair. All speakers will stand when addressing the chair and the conference.
14. The Superintendent Selection Committee will be formed in accordance with the paragraph A/581 of the Book of Discipline, in the last year of the Superintendent’s term.
15. The Superintendent is an ex-officio member of all boards and committees except the Superintendent Selection Committee.
16. The time and place of the next Annual Conference and the approval of the annual budget shall be referred to the Board for consideration at their fall meeting unless the Annual Conference amends such actions and process.
17. In the event of a national crisis or pandemic, the Conference Superintendent(s), with
the approval of the Area Bishop and the Conference Board of Directors, has the authority to postpone or cancel the Annual Conference or make the necessary arrangements for the Annual Conference to meet virtually.
18. When the conference adjourns, it will adjourn to meet at the call of the chair.
