Report to United Methodist Communications on Annual Conference 2004

by Ron Hodges, Director of Mission and Ministry

The Rocky Mountain Conference met June 16-19 in Denver, CO with Bishop Warner H. Brown, Jr. presiding. Our special guest attendees were Bishop and Mrs. Jose Quipungo, resident Bishop of the East Angola Conference and his wife. The theme of the session was “In our difference is blessing, from diversity we praise,” and that theme was repeatedly highlighted; first by unique worship experiences that lifted up the voices of the many cultures that are a part of the Conference and second, through the always dynamic preaching of Dr. Zan Holmes.

Dr. Charles Schuster, pastor from Fort Collins, CO was selected as the Conference nominee for election to the episcopacy. In other business, a new Vision/Mission statement was adopted along with a new leadership structure. Support for the camping and retreat programs along with a 3.3% increase over the current budget were also adopted. Bishop Brown named Charles Cooper as District Superintendent of the Wyoming/Northeast Colorado District.

The Conference recognized eleven retirements along with the ordination of two elders and one deacon, fourteen individuals commissioned toward Elders Orders and two toward Deacons Orders. In addition, there were 13 individuals who had their licenses as local pastors confirmed.

Membership stands at 69,608 down 1,009 from the previous year. Worship attendance stands at 33,241, down 2,223.