As
the session began, Bishop Cho commented that in preparing for his first annual
conference he prayed, "Lord, have mercy on me. Then he said, "By the
grace of God, so far so good!" Host Superintendent, Joe Carson, noted the
"firsts" of the conference: Bishop Cho's first annual conference, and
our first time at the Hampton Roads Convention Center on the newly formed York
River District. The first day became "fervent Friday" as a result of
the inspiring and challenging address by Bishop Cho. His noteworthy comments
included: "No spirituality, no vital congregations!" "If we are
not connected to the Vine we cannot bear much fruit." "The main issues we face are
spiritual." "Spiritual vitality begins with a spiritual connection
with God." "Ministry as usual
is no longer an option." The day concluded with the Service of Remembrance
and Communion with 29 clergy remembered, and an energetic sermon by Rev. Clarence
Brown.
Saturday began
with Bible study, and became a full day of taking care of business which included
a lot of sitting, listening to reports, and voting. (No nap time was included
on this year's agenda!) Worship was once again magnified by lively music and
inspiring preaching. In the midst of meetings, worship and
prayer we also served and generously contributed our time, talents and
money. Two hundred volunteers bagged 50,000 lbs. of potatoes, UMCOR Relief
Kits donated totaled 36,476, worth $453,647; 4 Cans 4 Conference collected 7,000
lbs. of food for the Peninsula Food Bank; Conference offering was $155,228 at
the close of the session.
For some,
the highlight of Conference came Saturday with the recognition of retirement; for
others it was the Service for the Ordering of Ministry (licensing,
commissioning and ordination.) Rev. Tom Berlin offered a powerful message and
reminded us to seek the joy in ministry. Saturday’s dinner for retirees sponsored by
VUMPI and ARMS provided a wonderful time to enjoy good food and fellowship.
Sunday's agenda
included the Board of Pensions report and recommended changes related to
pension and health benefits effective January 1, 2014. The actual report
includes 20 pages. Summary in two words: increased costs. Details of approved
changes will be sent from the VUMPI office.
Worship and
fixing of appointments concluded the conference. In his closing message, Bishop
Cho remarked, “As we return home we begin a walk into a future full of
uncertainties.” Yet, he reminded us, “There
is a message and promise from the Lord:
‘Be strong and courageous, and do not be afraid, for God is with us!’” (Joshua 1:9)
His deep spirituality and humble servant leadership was evident
from the beginning to the end of the conference. At the benediction, Bishop Cho
shouted, "Get out of here!" which immediately brought laughter. When
order was restored, he finished his departing words with "in peace and
hope." Most of us were still laughing and smiling as we left the Convention
Center. Congratulations go to our “rookie bishop” who handled things like a pro
while displaying personal warmth, grace and confidence!
