Affirmation of Missouri Conference Statement on BSA Chartering Agreements with United Methodist Congregations
The Missouri Annual Conference’s Office of Finance & Administrative Ministries, Director of Finance & Administrative Ministries, Rev. Nate Berneking and the Conference Chancellor, Jordan Ault, Esq. strongly recommend following the advice of GCFA and it’s named “ad hoc committee” representing United Methodist entities in the bankruptcy proceedings of the Boy Scouts of America. This means that local churches with current chartering agreements for Boy Scout Troops of any sort (i.e., Boy Scout, Cub Scout or Explorer Troops) should begin a conversation with troop leaders about ending the chartering agreement no later than December 31, 2021. This recommendation was made in August and still stands. Troops may continue utilizing the church’s building under a Facilities Use Agreement that clearly requires adequate insurance and does everything possible to insulate the local church from unwanted liabilities.
Welcoming Afghan Allies and Friends
Church World Service is hosting a call for clergy and judicatory/regional/conference leaders to hear how faith communities can partner with CWS to welcome our Afghan allies and friends on Zoom on Thursday, September 30, from 12-1:30 p.m. This call will provide a programmatic update on our Afghan Assistance and Placement Program as well as an advocacy update from the CWS Advocacy Team. Attendees will also hear from the Faith Community Organizing Team and the Director of Community Sponsorship and Engagement about how congregations can get involved in welcoming Afghans to their communities. Attendees will leave this session with action items and resources to equip your congregation as you engage in welcoming Afghans to your community. Register at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeAHRLJZP6LEOj0yc85xBKQ7VdhpJ2nww_xHmGCS3rXQIMI6Q/viewform.
Walk Justly Missions Conference
Registration closes October 1 for Manchester UMC’s Walk Justly Conference. Building on our rich Wesleyan heritage of social holiness, this new, two-day conference is all about missions and is for those who are dedicated to creating change in their local communities. Speakers include Rev. Dr. Dietra Wise Baker, Dr. Joshua Bartholomew, Rev. Dr. Emanuel Cleaver III, Rev. Dr. F Willis Johnson and more. Both in-person and virtual attendance options are available. Learn more at www.manchesterumc.org/conference.
