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It’s that time again, time for Annual Conference! Once again the Michigan Conference
UMC will be gathering again at Grand Traverse Resort in Traverse City. The theme this
year is “Unfinished”
“But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the
head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every
ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the
body’s growth in building itself up in love”. – Ephesians 4:15-16 NSRV
“Unfinished: Growing Up and Into Christ invites us to explore a faith that
expands beyond our limits and welcomes transformation. Inspired by Ephesians
4:15-16, this conference is a journey of collective Spirit-filled discernment, rooted
in the belief that our faith is a vast, inviting dwelling, unfinished and constantly
expanding. Together, we will wrestle with disillusionment and imagine a more
spacious, authentic way of following Christ. Through conversations, worship, and
reflection, we will seek to grow into the fullness of Christ, embracing a faith
marked by grace, curiosity, and joy.”
“Unfinished” is the title of a song by the late American Idol Top 10 finisher, Mandisa,
passed away quite unexpectedly at the age of 47. I remember seeing her perform at
Unity Fest not long after her Idol win. When Mandisa performed, she was full of energy
and zeal for Jesus. My hope is that the Michigan Conference might find the same kind
of energy, because now that the “spate of closings” and disaffiliations within our
conference are officially over. In a world that is filled with violence, hatred, political
polarization, deportation of immigrants and outright fear for many, there is one voice that
overcomes all of the darkness = Jesus Christ
There will be legislation that will be debated, new friends made, and missions explored.
I will make sure to keep you updated as to the happenings. Look for new things to pop
up along with the tulips.
Blessings,
Pastor Bev
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