Journal Reports 2018

Discipleship Ministries Report | Stewardship Reports | Leadership Reports | Institutional Reports

Discipleship Ministries Report

Greetings in the name of the One who makes us one. In the midst of bad news and uncertain times, there is no better place to be than beneath the cross. It is here that healing and common ground is found. It is here where our hope rises to meet God’s promises. It is here that we experience Oneness in the midst of our differences.

Our United Methodist heritage includes a particular understanding of discipleship beneath the cross formed by the both-and nature of our theology of grace: Loving God and Neighbor through Communual and Individual practices. As United Methodists, we understand that in order to deepen in discipleship, one must practice the means of grace which forms us to a particular definition of discipleship: To witness to Jesus Christ in the world, and to follow his teachings through acts of compassion, justice, worship, and devotion under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Loving God (Works of Piety)

Individual Practices (Acts of Devotion): reading, meditating and studying the scriptures, prayer, fasting, regularly attending worship, healthy living, and sharing our faith with others

Communal Practices (Acts of Worship): regularly share in the sacraments, Christian conferencing (accountability to one another), and Bible study

Loving Neighbor (Works of Mercy)

Individual Practices (Acts of Compassion): doing good works, visiting the sick, visiting those in prison, feeding the hungry, and giving generously to the needs of others.

Communal Practices (Acts fo Justice): seeking justice, ending oppression and discrimination, and addressing the needs of the poor.

This holistic work of forming disciples in the Wesleyan spirit happens in local faith communities. This isn’t a check list of activities but rather should be a shared understanding of what it looks like to mature as a disciple of Jesus along these dimensions and how the church supports that maturation process.

Resources and examples may be found here.

Staffing Changes

On July 1, 2017, Rodney Smothers became the new Director of Leadership and Congregational Development and Christie Latona became the new Director of Connectional Ministries. On April 2nd Katie Filano moved into a new role as Program Manager of Connectional Ministries that will increase the BWC’s capacity to develop, test, execute and measure our collective progress toward our mission. On July 1, 2018, we will celebrate the retirement of Pam Bowen who has served our conference well for 10 years as a project manager assigned to a wide variety of projects including ROCK and then CCYM. Together, including staff and conference leaders, we collaborate to deepen discipleship, develop vibrant communities of faith and dare persons to co-create with God for the flourishing of all.

Connectional Ministries staff portfolios have been refocused on helping the Baltimore-Washington Conference make collective progress on abundant health, advocacy and action, young people’s ministries and a variety of projects that deepen discipleship, develop leaders, promote missional innovation, and build relationships and partnerships so that more people, more diverse people and more younger people love as Jesus loves. Each staff person is responsible for inspiring and equipping servant leaders and local faith communities to better develop disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

A part of our realignment work included the following title changes:

Cheryl Cook from Associate Director, Information Resourcing Ministry to Coordinator of Young People and Special Projects
Stacey Cole Wilson from Director of Congregational Excellence to Executive Minister of Justice and Service
John Nupp from Director of the Center for Clergy Excellence to Executive Minister of Call and Clergy Care

Missional Innovation

Tools

Connectional Ministries staff and servant leaders are available to facilitate the use of these tools for districts and/or clusters of churches.

Mission Possible is a game with a purpose: to teach design thinking for social change. Design thinking is an iterative process of building, measuring, testing and improving that is helpful in situations where solutions need to be developed for things that aren’t already known to work. After playing a round, there are templates available for leaders/congregations to develop their own plan using the same proven thought process.
Good Brunches is a series of conversations that create community across lines of difference using kingdom principles while eating out.

Current Projects

The Change Maker’s Project supports young adults in hearing God’s call to innovative ministry through mentoring, missional immersions, entrepreneurial community engagement, and vocational conversations. Learn more at: https://www.thechangemakersproject.com/
Hatch-A-Thon is a 48 hour retreat where teams come to incubate their seed of an idea into a fully hatched, pitchable plan. There is a huge distance between a good idea and a fully formed, fundable plan. This is a proven process for covering that divide in a short amount of time. We will be holding the first of these November 8-10, 2018.

Evaluation of Existing Discipleship Agencies

In addition to improving the Nominations process, the DCM was tasked with evaluating the state of our existing discipleship committees and to discern opportunities for streamlining and improving our mission-critical tasks. As the DCM began interviewing chair persons, there were some agencies thatmay simply need re-focusing and others that were ready for re-imagining. A vast majority of persons interviewed:

Stated that the current approach isn’t working for a variety of reasons
Wanted to have impact and were open to trying new ways of being in ministry together; saw value in ongoing collaboration
Named the large chasm between the agencies, districts and local churches and that a lack of organizing at the district level was a significant obstacle to achieving greater impact.

As of July 2018, only two of the 17 were fully functional (making progress toward fulfilling their purpose), half only met to write the report for AC and the remainder were meeting but not fully functional (e.g., meeting but little action/impact, not full participation, etc.) Some major committees hadn’t been functional for years. This was due to several factors which are best addressed within a context of a simplified, purpose-driven structure.

Refocusing and Realignment Work

Following the interviews with Discipleship Agency chairs, the following steps were taken:

Consulted the Book of Discipline and verified that it gives an annual conference permission to reconfigure its agencies as long as certain agencies are maintained (¶ 610).
Talked with other Annual Conferences who were in the process of streamlining their agencies or who had done so recently. (We are not alone in seeking better ways of doing ministry together.)
Refocused on our denominational mission and foci. Since 2006, the Council of Bishops, the Connectional Table and the general program agencies have been affirming and strengthening United Methodist missional priorities in the Four Areas of Focus (underlined below). These broad areas have emerged from thriving ministries across the church to represent the key connectional ministries that lead to thriving faith communities, as well as thriving conference-wide and general church ministries. In 2016, The UMC embraced specific goals in each of the four areas, and are working together to accomplish great things for God.
Brought the findings and ideas for consolidating the non-required agencies down to five networks to the Nominations Committee, Discipleship Council and Connectional Table to explore further. Connectional Table leaders helped check initial thinking about which agencies work might best fit in which area by checking the functions from the Book of Discipline against the purpose of the network. The Discipleship Council assigned four listening partners to accompany the DCM in her work of listening and discerning: Ms. Carol Travis, Rev. Bonnie Scott, Mr. Moorosi Mukuenda and Rev. Steve Larsen.
Convened stakeholders to dream and input on three of the networks most impacted by the change: Young People’s Ministry, Advocacy & Action and Abundant Health. Changes to the area name, purpose statement, the make-up of the new agency and initial approaches to reorganizing have been made as a result of those conversations. More details may be found in their reports.
Submitted the 2019 budget to CFA with these five areas as the framework and with a vision of pooling money that was formally assigned to particular line items into purpose-driven grants that ministries and leaders may apply for through a new granting process. This process will enable more collaborative leadership, visibility, flexibility, accountability and sharing of best practices. Additionally, we will supplement mission shares giving with grant funding as a strategy for ministry growth (see CFA’s report for details).
Continued conversations with Annual Conference leadership – including the Rules Committee – about the intention to test before making changes to the structure. Waiting until 2019 to bring any needed resolutions will also allow us to take into account any decisions made at the Special Called Session of General Conference.

As a reminder, here’s a functional chart of our structure. This first appeared in the 2006 Journal, page 480. (Subsequent modifications have been noted.)

In the 2006 Journal there was a specific configuration of agencies underneath the Discipleship Ministries area that were aligned with the Discipleship Adventure and that were never fully implemented. As of July 2017, there was no grouping of agency work. Additionally, Communications and Archives and History had shifted from Stewardship to Discipleship.

What follows is the realignment of Discipleship Ministries we are testing this year before bringing finalized recommendations to the 2019 Annual Conference session for a vote. During this testing period, the current way in which the Connectional Table is populated will be maintained to minimize disruption. The entities with an asterisk are populated through our Nominations Committee. The functions of the entities in parentheses will be cared for by the networked area. The items listed without parentheses are there to show where synergy exists. Groups may be considered as working groups or other entities that help translate the work done by the network (e.g., strategy, priorities, goals) to their constituency group. Individuals listed would be a part of the Network.

Leadership Development Network: develops disciples by maturing Jesus followers who know their purpose and use their gifts to build up the body of Christ for the transformation of the world.

(¶ 629. Board of Discipleship*)
¶ 603.9. Conference Lay Leader
¶ 631. Conference Board of Laity

New Faith Expressions Network: develops disciples by encouraging evangelism and the creation of diverse, multicultural third places with and for people who aren’t currently connected to any faith community.

Unified Funding Task Force
Missional Innovation

Young Peoples Ministry Network: develops disciples by inviting, inspiring and strengthening youth and young adult servant leaders in local churches, campuses, camps, projects and mission fields of the annual conference.

(¶ 634. Board of Higher Education and Ministries*)
¶ 649. Conference Council on Youth Ministry
¶ 650. Young Adult Council
Retreat and Camping Ministries
ROCK

Abundant Health Network: develops disciples by fostering spiritual, physical and mental health for all and promoting an understanding of the interconnectedness of all aspects of health both locally and globally.

(¶ 633. Conference Board of Global Ministries*)
Volunteers in Mission and Emergency Response Teams
Quality of Life Retreats (HIV/AIDS Ministry)

Advocacy & Action Network: develops disciples by partnering with communities so that we join in advocating to transform systems which disenfranchise, marginalize, and oppress and to create a BWC presence on urgent policy matters at local, state and national levels.

(¶ 629. Board of Church and Society*)
(¶ 642. Christian Unity and Interreligious Relationships*)
Racial Justice Team
- ¶ 643. Commission on Religion and Race*
- NEJ Call to Action for Racial Justice
Immigration Rights Team
- Justice for Our Neighbors
Gender Equity Team
- (¶ 644. Commission on the Status and Role of Women*)
Wealth Equity Team
Creation Care Team

The following entities function across multiple areas—including New Faith Expressions—but are budgetarily housed in Advocacy and Action:

(¶ 632. Conference Committee on Ethnic Local Church Concerns*)
(¶ 645. Conference Commission on the Small Membership Church*)
¶ 653. Committee on Disability Concerns*
(¶ 654. Committee on Native American Ministry*)
¶ 655. Committee on Hispanic/Latino Ministries

Other:

¶ 641. Commission on Archives and History* used to be listed under Stewardship
¶ 646. Commission on Communication* used to be listed under Stewardship
¶ 647. United Methodist Women
¶ 648. United Methodist Men

The benefits we seek include:

Improved focus, collaboration and impact.
Greater shared leadership for strategy and resource alignment by people who are actually engaged in the work.
Easier to get messages and engagement to and from districts, local churches and leaders.
More time spent on getting the work done.
More people engaged and supported in ministry that happens on the ground.
More aligned with connectional goals and funding.

The reports in the pages that follow have been organized in the order of these five focus areas.

Submitted by:

Rev. Steve Larsen, Mr. Moorosi Mukuenda, Rev. Bonnie Scott and Ms. Carol Travis, Discipleship Council assigned listeners
Ms. Christie Latona, Director of Connectional Ministries

Leader Development

Purpose: to develop mature Jesus followers who know their purpose and use their gifts to build up the body of Christ for the transformation of the world.

Leadership development is rooted in Discipleship development. It is our expectation that every leader in across the Annual Conference is maturing in their discipleship and as such has spiritual fruit to show for it. An interim board of Leader Development is being formed to help define and synchronize expectations of what it means and takes to develop leaders – lay and clergy – across a continuum of leadership impact from novice to mastery that helps inspire and equip local faith expressions to do the same.

This interim board is comprised of:

• Chair of BOOM
• Conference Lay Leader
• Conference Director of Lay Servant Ministries
• Up to 6 people with specific skills and demonstrated fruitfulness in discipleship and leadership development (3 lay, 3 clergy)
• Director of Leadership and Congregational Development
- Board of Laity
  
  The purpose of the Baltimore-Washington Conference Board of Laity is to initiate strategies and policies to strengthen the presence and voice of laity in the BWC, and to enable a mutual ministry among lay people and clergy alike as set out in the Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church. In the BWC, we strive to share information concerning the lay ministry of The United Methodist Church and to take any and all action deemed desirable by the Conference to promote and support lay ministry.
  
  Goals: We envision empowering the laity to partner with the clergy to provide a mutual voice and strengthen the presence for all. We want to equip our laity for spiritual leadership to “Make disciples of Jesus Christ for the Transformation of the World.” Plans are to develop a training session that is more in-depth than a one day Leadership Day, to give members an opportunity to discuss agreements and/or disagreements on chosen subjects.
  
  Impact: At the 2017 Annual Conference, Jodi Cataldo from the Board of Discipleship was the speaker for the Laity Session. Feedback from attendees was very positive. During the year, many of the District Lay Leaders conducted training sessions for the Laity.
  
  The Conference Lay Leader and three District Lay Leaders attended the Northeastern Jurisdiction Annual Lay Leaders Conference in Charlestown, W.Va. We engaged in a wonderful missions project that included preparing food baskets with a local outreach project.
  
  This Year: Plans are to provide all conference laity an opportunity to share experiences, ideas for ministry, and offer educational opportunities for all. We believe the ministry of the laity is the work and mission to which each believer is called. As Christians, we are all called to this lay ministry much like those called to be clergy. Each of us has a responsibility to proclaim the Good News and reach out to others in love.
  
  Submitted by: Delores Martin, Chair
- Office of Leadership Development
  
  The Office of Leadership and Congregational Development’s role is to provide strategic focus in the areas of learning and leader development.
  
  This past year, this goal has been met in a variety of ways. New ministry expansion through audio-visual and cyber ministries, and implementation of local Ministry Action Plans, is bringing strategic alignment to our mission and vision as an Annual Conference. Our emphasis on providing training, resourcing, coaching and mentoring is providing our lay and clergy members with the tools that they need to positively impact their members and community. Among these tools are:
  
  • Networking has been provided for Next Level Leaders in monthly training sessions in the areas of skills development and leadership strategies;
  • Coaching has been provided for both congregations and pastors to increase leadership and effectiveness strategies;
  • Scholarships have been provided for laity and pastors to attend National and Regional Exponential Training Events, School of Congregational Development, and Launch Pad training events. We also provided funding for scholarships for congregational teams to attend the two-year Financial Leadership Academy;
  • Training has been provided in the use of MissionInsite (demographics) and ZOOM (video conferencing) tools;
  • We offered workshops in the areas of “Creative Worship,” “Lead Like a Women,” and “The Future of the 21st Century Church” which were led by national leaders. Local church leadership events were held in the areas of program development and congregational vitality. We have also provided training support for our District Leadership Days;
  
  Our leadership development plans for 2018:
  
  • We continue to strengthen our congregational development strategies by promoting BWC Training and national and regional events that provide resources for new and revitalized congregations;
  • Our collaboration with Connectional Ministries will create Mentoring Cohorts and Coaching Networks for both our laity and clergy.
  
  Submitted by: Rev. Rodney Thomas Smothers, Director for Leadership and Congregational Development
New Faith Expressions

Purpose: to encourage evangelism and the creation of diverse, multicultural "third places" with and for people who aren’t currently connected to any faith community. Home and work are first and second spaces, “third spaces” are the gathering places in between. In a post-Christendom society, the church building isn’t viewed as the natural third space it once was. Instead, coffee shops, gyms, and studios have emerged and persons being the church need to be intentional about showing up in those. New faith expressions are not tied to a physical building (or even to keeping a church alive) but to a building of community for a purpose: to engage people in a life-giving relationship with Jesus.

This interim board is comprised of:

• At least one person per district with experience in launching new faith expressions, in start-up enterprises, or with other capacities deemed valuable to the task of supporting new faith expressions (no more than 12 persons in all)
• Director of New Faith Expressions
- Office of Congregational Development
  
  The Office of Congregational Development supports the development and deployment of skilled servant leaders to create and develop vital places of ministries where people will encounter Christ and become Christ’s disciples for the transformation of their communities and the world. Our emphasis on providing training, resourcing, coaching and mentoring is providing our lay and clergy members with the tools that they need to positively impact their members and community. Among these tools are:
  
  • DISCernment and Lifeway Assessments have been provided for persons seeking to discern their skill sets in the areas of leading a new church or new faith community;
  • Grants have been provided for New Faith Ministries (9), New Church Starts (7), and Hispanic Ministries in several stages of development;
  
  We celebrated creative new faith that communities that are currently underway in Washington, D.C. “The Bridge” a contemporary worship service sponsored by Asbury UMC, and “The Well,” a Seeker-Sensitive contemporary gathering, currently meeting at the Douglas UMC. In addition, we are pioneering a “Planting Residency,” a new faith community model in Baltimore.
  
  Our new faith expression plans for 2018:
  
  • Our emerging plans for congregational development include discernment retreats for potential church planters, and multi-site training for congregations that currently have healthy and growing church cultures; and
  • A multi-level Leadership Academy is being developed to provide on-site, digital and collaborative training experiences in new Faith Communities and the reprioritization of existing congregational assets.
  • Our collaboration with Connectional Ministries has yielded multiple pathways for persons to engage in Missional Innovation, which, when implemented fully, would yield a new faith expression.
  
  With great anticipation, we look forward to welcoming a Director of New Faith Expressions in July of 2018 who will expand our capacity in this essential area.
  
  Submitted by: Rev. Rodney Thomas Smothers, Director for Leadership and Congregational Development
Young People's Ministry

Purpose: Grows disciples by inspiring and strengthening youth and young adult servant leaders in local churches, campuses, camps, projects and mission fields of the annual conference.

Our conference has continued its faithful commitment to young people through Campus Ministry, Conference Council on Youth Ministry (CCYM), Retreat & Camping Ministry, ROCK, and Young Adult Council (YAC). In January 2018 about 45 persons from across these ministries gathered to explore hopes and concerns for the totality of young people’s ministry and to provide input on the model of having a consolidated board with working groups. CCYM and the YAC provided input on the process of identifying the interim Young People’s Ministry Board and the composition of this board. (NOTE: CCYM and YAC are both populated by districts, not the work of the Nominations Committee.) These names will be brought before the Nominations Committee and added to the leadership report voted on at Annual Conference. This interim board will also care for the functions of the Conference Board of Higher Education and Ministry.

• 4 youth (not a current senior)
o CCYM nominates 4 and 2 are seated
o ROCK nominates 4 and 2 are seated
• 6 young adults (35 or under)
o YAC nominates 4 and 2 are seated
o RCM nominates 4 and 2 are seated
• Campus Ministry nominates 4 and 2 are seated
• 2 people that can be over 35
o one with fruitful youth ministry
o one with fruitful young adult ministry
• Staff Representative: Matthew Surber

We will be testing this configuration and will be bringing any needed resolutions to the 2019 Annual Conference Session as a result of our learning and the comprehensive assessment and strategic plan for Young Peoples Ministry that will be completed by March of 2019. The key outcomes of the plan include:

• Strategy that clarifies the Conference’s most effective role in supporting, connecting and vitalizing Young People’s Ministry in the annual conference
• Clearly defined, updated, and integrated structure for the conference’s efforts related to Young Peoples Ministries
• Well-Equipped, spiritually grounded leaders for Young Peoples Ministry, including local faith community, district and conference-level leadership. Leadership – both staff and servant leaders – that is recruited and trained to excel in the roles within that structure
• Communication that effectively engages young people and ties together the strategy, structure and leadership for Young People’s Ministries across all levels of the Baltimore-Washington Conference

In the meantime we are working toward a. unifying our youth ministry, b. increasing the number and quality of well trained, Christ-centered leaders; c. developing cultural compentency for youth and young adults and those who work with them; d. helping people find their place to serve in their area of giftedness and greatest impact; e. improving two-way communication between the Annual Conference and local church; and f. transforming the prevalent view of young people as a commodity in our local churches to the view of young people as fully capable change makers for Jesus.
- Conference Council on Youth Ministry
  
  Purpose: To support, educate, advocate, represent, and resource, on behalf of the Conference and District Youth Ministries, the local church youth ministries, and the youth – both churched and unchurched – of the Baltimore-Washington Conference. All this we do to help make disciples of youth for the transformation of our conference and world.
  
  Goals:
  
  • Have a CCYM member attend and be actively engaged with the Discipleship Council;
  • Attend and be engaged with the Northeast Jurisdictional Council on Youth Ministry;
  • Continue to develop materials for Stress Less Project in concert with Abundant Health taskforce on mental health and ROCK Cares;
  • Have at least one youth attend the Mission of Peace; and
  • Develop a presence at Annual Conference to help local church leaders understand the importance of youth ministry.
  
  In 2017, CCYM focused on getting the message of being disciples in training, not disciples in waiting, and shared this throughout the annual conference. This message was received well and has led to youth being given more opportunities to participate and serve both at the local and conference level. Four youth were able to attend the Mission of Peace in Cuba where their faith was greatly impacted. They, in turn, have come back to their local settings and shared their experience and how it changed their lives.
  
  CCYM is excited to be helping shape the development of a new strategic plan for Young Peoples Ministry across the conference. We will continue our work on the Stress Less Project so that we have lesson plans designed that can be shared with local churches. We intend to start a new youth initiative where we host TED-Talk style conversations on youth topics.
  
  Submitted by: CCYM Leadership and Cheryl Cook,
  Coordinator of Young People and Special Projects
- Young Adult Council
  
  Purpose: To be a movement of young adults growing in Christ and community
  
  Goals:
  
  • Provide training for local congregations on the full spectrum of Young Adult Ministry;
  • Be a resource to local churches and provide resource and recommendations to local churches for use in young adult ministry;
  • Advocate for young adult participation and leadership at the conference level;
  • Connect young adults and local young adult ministries throughout the conference through clear and consistent communication; and
  • Host or sponsor young adult events activities.
  
  The Council continues to offer trainings to local churches and purchases resources to share. As a way of advocating for young adults to participate in leadership roles, multiple young adults were sponsored to attend the reCall Summit in October where they engaged in conversation around race and multiculturalism. More than a dozen young adult ministry groups sought funding from the Council, all of which were supported. In addition to supporting other groups, the Council helped to organize and plan several events to include a young adult worship night at St. Luke’s in Reisterstown and a gathering of young adults at Annual Conference.
  
  Impact: The Council continues to partner with our brothers and sisters in Campus Ministry as well as Retreat and Camping Ministry, so that young adults across the region have many touchpoints to the conference. We were able to help sponsor several Howard University students to attend a Christian leadership conference in Atlanta, as well as students from the University of Maryland to attend Taste & See. The Council also hosted a gathering with RCM staff and are in the process of planning a retreat for young adults in the Fall of 2018.
  
  Overlapping our ministries helps to build deeper roots while also casting a wider net so that more young adults are impacted. We are excited about the future of our partnership with Project Transformation, where young adults will have the opportunity to both grow in faith and gain leadership skills. The Council supported two new, young adult focused ministry startups — The Well in D.C., and The Real in Laurel — which have flourished and given young adults space to grow in their faith and become fruitful leaders and disciples.
  
  In 2018, we plan to continue to support local church ministries with training, resources, and funding through addition to hosting a fall retreat for young adults.
  
  Submitted by: Taeron Flemming, Chair
- Retreat and Camping Ministries
  
  he mission of Retreat and Camping Ministries (RCM) is to grow disciples of Jesus Christ through immersion in Christian community and by building relationships in the midst of God’s creation. We provide unmatched opportunities to individuals and local churches for spiritual transformation through retreat and camp experiences.
  
  2017 was a year of transition for RCM, as Andy Thornton retired after 30 years of faithful ministry. Chris Schlieckert succeeded Andy as Director of RCM, and Kirstin Shrom-Rhoads was hired as the new Director of Manidokan Camp and Retreat Center.
  
  Retreat usage held steady while summer camp participation increased by 8.4 percent, allowing RCM to fulfill its financial mandate for operating income to cover operating expenses. We are proud to have met this goal for the fifth consecutive year.
  
  RCM continued to nurture partnerships with: Baltimore County Social Services, Calvert County Public Schools, River and Trail Outfitters, Georgetown Day School, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, University of Maryland Gemstones, City Year (Americorps), and others.
  
  In 2017, RCM served 14,091 people as part of 311 retreat groups and 72 summer camp programs. More than 20,000 nights were spent at our sites and our food service staff served more than 50,000 meals. While at our facilities, people engage in intentional community building, spiritual formation, and personal growth through the unique setting and activities we provide. Industry research shows that 86 percent of summer campers agreed their camp experience had a significant impact on their life, and 93 percent agreed their faith had been strengthened while at camp.
  
  In 2018 RCM will:
  • Implement a new marketing strategy to increase growth;
  • Undergo a master planning process in the fall of 2018;
  • Revamp the Baltimore City camp initiative;
  • Improve cultural competency training for staff and volunteers;
  • Add new high ropes course to Manidokan; and
  • Upgrade 600 feet of West River shore as an environmentally friendly Living Shoreline.
  
  We are grateful for the support of local churches, pastors, laity, and conference staff which enable us to provide this vital ministry to our region on behalf of the Baltimore-Washington Conference.
  
  Chris Schlieckert, Director of Retreat and Camping Ministries
Abundant Health (Formerly Board of Global Ministries)

Mission: Abundant Health grows disciples by inspiring and equipping faith communities to foster spiritual, physical and mental health for all and promote an understanding of the interconnectedness of all aspects of health both locally and globally.

Our 2017-2018 year was a season of transition and repositioning for greater alignment with our vision and mission. To best understand how all of the agencies of Global Ministries can better function as One, we participated in two summits which included representation from the following entities: Conference Committee on Disabilities, Criminal Justice and Mercy Ministries (CJAMM), Quality of Life Retreats, United Methodist Volunteers in Mission (UMVIM), Seeds of Security, and Wesley Theological Seminary Heal the Sick Program. [It is important to note that some agencies are listed in the Advocacy and Action network as well due to the intersectionality of our work.] In those meetings a plan began to emerge.

2018 Year-End Goals:
• Implement an intentional way of listening, inviting and preparing persons to become a part of this vital work through at least two cluster/district/regional gatherings by November 2018.
• Complete onboarding, strategic planning and organization of the Abundant Health Board that includes new grant-making process.
• Vet and select at least three assessment tools that can be used by individuals and/or congregations to assess all aspects of health.
• Recruit at least 50 trainers and professionals who can provide needed support and expertise for our Abundant Health work in faith communities, clergy care, and with our youth.

Missional impact: VIM/ERT REORGANIZATION (Pam Bowen, Joan Carter-Rimbach, Fred Sipes, Stacey Cole Wilson):
• Welcomed a new ERT leader, Fred Sipes, got the ERT trailer registered, repaired and prepared to be put in use.
• Recruited and trained new District UMVIM Coordinators
• Supported Mission Central and UMCOR reliefs efforts in Texas, Puerto Rico, Florida, South Carolina, and other parts of the Caribbean devastated by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Maria and Jose – noting that our BWC sent $100,000 in relief funds in addition to our Advance. Our BWC advance raised over $1000.
o Invested in Cass UMC’s efforts to Power Puerto Rico via Solar Generators
o Organization and support of Exploratory and Relief Trips to Puerto Rico
• Provided ERT support during the Silver Spring Apartment Explosion
• Revised and updated our Local Church Disaster Preparedness Manual and its section entitled Guns in Churches, Addressing Church Security Needs located on our bwcumc.org website.
• Participated in the creation and redesign of our Mission Trip/Disaster Relief Portal so that Mission Leaders and persons looking to join and/or respond to a mission can engage and be aware of teams/missions happening across our connection.

TRAINING:
• Collaboration with the Maryland Council on Problem Gambling to offer three trainings and certificates in Problem Gambling Prevention from a Faith-based Perspective.
• Collaboration with the Governor’s Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) office to offer regional trainings in Creating a Culture of Compassion and Action in Response to the Opioid Crisis. SBIRT is an evidence-based practice used to identify, reduce, and prevent problematic use, abuse, and dependence on alcohol and illicit drugs.
• Held five Volunteer in Mission (VIM) Trainings.

Connectional work:
• Sent two BWC Representatives for General Board of Global Ministries’ United Methodist Day of Health in Dunwoody, GA to learn best practices as related to all aspects of health.
• Strengthened our partnership with Wesley Theological Seminary’s Heal the Sick Program, offering grants and conversation around district parish nursing support.
• Implementation of new Seeds of Security Domestic Violence and Intimate Partner Abuse Prevention Committee Board with lay, clergy, and community professionals.

Submitted by: Rev. Heath Wilson, Chairperson of the Board of Global Ministries and Rev. Dr. Stacey Cole Wilson, Executive Minister of Justice and Service
- Missionaries Report
  
  The Conference Secretary of Global Ministries interprets the programs, emphases, plans, and policies of the General Board of Global Ministries to the annual conference; works with Missionary Services to promote Covenant Relationships and itineration of missionaries to share the story of God’s mission and increase support for missionaries; and cooperates with Global Ministries in its mission program in the United States and around the globe.
  
  Our goal is to coordinate the itineration of missionaries visiting supporting churches. I make special efforts to have missionaries visit churches that are not currently supporting missionaries:
  
  • Promote new Covenant Relationships;
  • Maintain the list of missionaries supported throughout the annual conference;
  • Mission U, a joint venture of GBGM and UMW, is the major training event for mission education within the BWC. Members of CGBGM serve on the planning committee for the annual school for adult and youth. As secretary, I represent GBGM and serve as Business Manager and member of Nomination Committee.
  
  Missionaries are provided an opportunity every three year to visit the United States. They usually itinerate to conferences where they have four or more covenant relationships. Exceptions are made if missionaries are visiting nearby areas and stop in for a couple of days.
  
  We usually have several missionaries itinerating in BWC yearly. In 2017, because of severe weather conditions, many of them postponed visitation to the US because churches were providing financial support to flood and storm areas.
  
  Mary Gladstone-Highland, from the Detroit area, visited in April and I want to thank Susanna Wesley House in Baltimore for their generosity by providing housing for her husband and young child during their time in our conference.
  
  John Barnes, former GBGM member, graciously accepted an invitation to give an overview of conference ministries at the Mission u event in July 2017.
  
  In 2018, I’m looking forward to working with Conference GBGM chair Heath Wilson as we establish goals on how to support each other in our assigned work areas.
  
  I would like to take this opportunity to thank the United Methodist Women and Conference staff for their support throughout the year.
  
  Deaconess Jane Grays, Secretary of Global Ministries
Advocacy in Action

Combined report for Conference Board of Church and Society (CBCS), Committee on Christian Unity and Interreligious Concerns (CUIC), Committee on Ethnic Local Church Concerns (ELCS), Committee on Native American Ministries (CONAM), Commission on Small Membership Church, and the Commission on the Status and Role of Women (COSROW).

Purpose: Advocacy & Action partners with communities so that we join in advocating to transform systems which disenfranchise, marginalize, and oppress and to create a BWC presence on urgent policy matters at local, state and national levels.

2017 was a year of missional realignment based on the realities of our collective committees. Many committees reported low attendance or an inability to call meetings due to lack of response. To that end, we participated in two summits (with the entities named above along with Conference Commission on Religion and Race (CCORR)*, Committee on Hispanic/Latino Ministries, Committee on Disability Concerns*, Criminal Justice Mercy and Ministries (CJAMM), Deaf Ministries, NEJ Call to Action*, Strengthening the Black Church (SBC21)) to reimagine what might be possible together. [*Ministries have an additional report.]

By the end of 2018 we seek to:
1. Host at least one listening session per district so that we are better able to:
a. Determine persons, resources/assets, needs, and systems needed to affect transformational change.
b. Identify, strengthen and or develop deeper relationships/collaborations with persons in and beyond our local churches (in community) who are doing this work well.
2. Conduct at least two trainings in community organizing so that churches are better resourced to engage and partner with their communities to lead change.
3. Provide at least two legislative opportunities for persons to “stand with” and address systems which disenfranchise, marginalize, and oppress, in accordance to our Social Principles and Wesleyan Heritage.
4. Establish a multi-voiced blog for each of our primary areas of focus: Racial Justice, Immigration Rights, Gender Equality, Wealth Equity, and Creation Care.

Missional Impact

Climate Justice (Mike Koob)
• Successful advocacy to ban fracking in Maryland.
• Consistent advocacy for Clean Energy Jobs.

Committee on Native American Ministries (CONAM)
• Co-sponsored an event with Dr. Casey Church, a nationally known leader in Native American Ministries, with Covenant United Methodist Church.

Conference Board of Church and Society (Julie Wilson, Chair)
• Advocacy Day 2017 in conjunction with the United Methodist Women and continued advocacy beyond this date. As a result, we saw all of the bills we supported pass the legislature (though some were later vetoed until 2018 when originally passed).
• Strong Advocacy Day 2018 faith presence and legislative actions re: The Death Penalty and Prescription Drug Affordability.
• Two trainings in the Social Principles took place, including one train-the-trainer event in 2017.
• Ongoing Actions and Legislative Presence to Address: Immigration Reform/Clean Dream Act, Racism, Gun-Violence, and Criminal Justice.

Criminal Justice and Mercy Ministries (Sonia King, Brian Jackson and Pat Marks)
• Greater cross functional team collaboration with Criminal Justice and Mercy Ministries (CJAMM) and other groups involved in Advocacy and Action. We have added an advocacy person to the team, Deaconess Patricia Marks.
• Continued support offered to those in our congregations that are incarcerated and their families by prayers, visits, court appearances, and through letters.
• Continued resources provided to churches with returning citizens.
• In collaboration with the UMW and UMC’s in Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia provided over 1800 books to the children of women incarcerated at MCIW – Jessup for their Holiday celebration.

Peace with Justice Grant Awardees
• The Community Anti-Violence Program at Hughes Memorial United Methodist Church provides after school tutoring and mentoring for children and youth who are vulnerable to the trauma of poverty and violence in their community. The Peace with Justice grant was used to partially offset the cost of stipends to Howard University students who serve as mentors/tutors.
• The Imago Dei (I.D.) Ministry at Foundry United Methodist Church provides serve homeless Washington residents who need to be able to identify themselves with legally recognized and accepted forms of identification in order to access social and public services. The primary use of the BWC funds will be to assist those clients who lack funds for the cost of transportation to sites where I.D. cards can be obtained.
• Van Buren United Methodist Church is converting the unused parsonage into a place of support for homeless mothers with children who are victims of domestic violence.

Small Membership Church
• The Committee on Nominations and Leadership Development is insuring that at least one member from a small membership church is represented in each conference agency as openings are available.
• The Office of Leadership and Congregational Development equips churches of all sizes for vitality—including strategies for small membership churches.

We are excited about our ongoing efforts to what God calls us to be – One – and look forward to greater presence in the world through advocacy and action.

Submitted by:
Rev. Julie Wilson, Chairperson of Conference Board of Church and Society
Rev. Dr. Stacey Cole Wilson, Executive Minister of Justice and Service
- Commission on Disability Concerns
  
  Mission: Promoting disability awareness, accessibility, inclusion, empowerment, and on-going advocacy continues to be a priority for the Commission on Disability Concerns.
  
  Disability Commission Plan and Goals: (Based on The BOD ¶ 653: Committee on Disability Concerns)
  
  Resourcing. Continue researching and posting online and community resources.
  • Two or more new resources a year [Completed and on-going]
  • Sharing the BWC Disability Ministry Manual [Completed and on-going]
  • Reach out to BOOM to see if there are any candidates with disabilities and offer our support. [Completed and on-going]
  
  Promoting Awareness. Disability awareness is an important part of the work.
  • Write two or more articles a year. [Completed and on-going]
  • Promote Disability Awareness Sunday in each district, include the use of the Disability Awareness Sunday Church Kit. [On-going]
  • Host a meet and greet and give a brief presentation at Wesley Seminary on Oct 12, 2017. [Completed]
  • Present Addiction Recovery Ministry. [Completed and on-going]
  
  Visibility. Help the disability commission to be more visible in the conference.
  • Exhibit table at AC. [Complete and on-going]
  • Exhibit tables at Leadership Day events. [On-going]
  • Connectional Table meetings. [On-going]
  • Collaborate with other ministries. [On-going]
  
  Accessibility. Promoting disability accessibility across the annual conference.
  • The completion of accessibility audit forms at charge conference. [Completed]
  • Remind the dean of the cabinet about keeping this form in the charge conference packet. [Completed and on-going]
  • Meet with three or more UMW units in the fall and three or more in the spring. Have UMW units be partners with us to advocate accessibility. [On-going]
  
  Networking
  • Continue to network with the Global Ministries Disability Ministries Committee (national committee). [Completed and on-going]
  • Continue to network with Discipleship Ministries Older Adult Ministries (national committee). This keeps us abreast of older adult ministries as most people with disabilities are from this population. [On-going]
  • Continue to work with UMW and UMM. [On-going]
  
  The Disability Commission continued to raise awareness that leads to additional knowledge and more sensitivity. While the Disability Commission keeps to its scope of work in the Book of Discipline, it also connects to the four foci of The United Methodist Church, which includes: engaging with the poor, improving global health, developing Christian leaders, and creating new/renewed congregations.
  
  This year, we plan to build partnerships with United Methodist Men and Lay Servant Trainings to raise disability awareness and inclusion. The United Methodist Men initiative is to seek assistance with the installation of ramps for churches that have financial hardships. The Lay Servant training is build partnerships and disability awareness with local churches across the annual conference.
  
  Submitted by: Rev. Leo Yates, Jr., Chairperson
- Committee on Religion and Race
  
  Members of the Conference Commission on Religion and Race (CCORR) have been active primarily in two areas this year: 1) Vital conversations about race and 2) Intercultural competency training.
  
  Our first goal has been to resource, and promote vital conversations about racial justice in congregations and gatherings across the Annual Conference. Members of CCORR actively engaged with each registered clergy member at Annual Conference 2017 to provide Study Guidebooks and a DVD set of Vital Conversations On Race, Culture, and Justice. Published by the General Commission on Religion and Race (GCORR), we emphasized Series #1: Racism and U.S. Church. Clergy members were encouraged to partner with congregational leaders to engage local church members in this study series, which includes presentations by theologians, sociologists, and thought leaders in race, culture, and justice. We encourage you to visit GCORR’s website, www.gcorr.org for more information and resources.
  
  At the 2017 Annual Conference, lay and clergy members were given the opportunity to enter into a covenant to actively participate in dismantling racism. The invitation to covenant together has continued on the BWC website; to date over 500 individuals have signed on to do this work throughout our conference. At this time, CCORR is in the process of following up with the individuals and churches who signed and submitted a covenant card or have indicated their desire to engage in this critical work.
  
  CCORR is aware that some congregations have stepped up to begin engaging in dialogues about racial justice. These conversations are taking a variety of forms. Churches are working with the resources provided as well as other resources to creatively and courageously begin these conversations in their local contexts. We applaud those clergy and laity who are finding ways to make them happen and encourage others to provide opportunities for members of their congregations and communities to engage in dialogues toward building new partnerships and to take actions in their locations. To support this work, CCORR is developing educational opportunities specifically to train leaders in the use of the Vital Conversations resource and to support this timely and vital work as it is emerging in local churches.
  
  CCORR has also focused on the ongoing work of building intercultural competency across the Conference. In September, an intercultural competency workshop was held with the Board of Ordained Ministry as a part of their training and preparation for their work this year. A second workshop is planned for fall, 2018. A workshop on Intercultural Competency was also held for pastors who are participating in the Residency in Ministry program through BOOM. CCORR continues to see the need for intercultural competency training to take place throughout the Conference.
  
  Over the last twenty months, there has been a developing core of racial justice work and resourcing in the Baltimore-Washington Conference. CCORR will be contributing as a part of the overall conference strategy to further this work. We look forward to doing what we can to promote and further dialogue and action in local churches and communities toward ending racism and growing in intercultural competency in the coming year.
  
  Submitted by: Rod Miller, Chair CCORR
- DC-Maryland Justice for Our Neighbors
  
  Purpose: We provide immigration legal services to low-income immigrants.
  
  Goals: To provide high-quality legal services to low income immigrants, while providing faith-based hospitality, welcoming the stranger, and educating the community. By working on over 300 cases for clients from over 35 countries on over 25 different types of cases, we have served a lot of the population in need. We aim to serve the most vulnerable community members, and have developed case acceptance criteria that reflects this. We conducted Know Your Rights presentations in immigrant communities, and rely on volunteers to run our clinics, thus educating the public through various means. We strove to respond to specific needs due to harsher immigration rhetoric and policies from the new Administration. We held community presentations regarding enforcement, held DACA-specific clinics, and our attorney participated as part of a local emergency legal response team at Dulles International Airport after the executive orders banning refugees and Muslims. Additionally, we sought to increase the visibility of the organization, especially within the conference. Introductory meetings were held with Bishop Easterling and Conference staff; an educational and fundraising event, “Welcoming the Stranger,” was held at the Conference Mission Center; several articles were published in The UMConnection; and, our social media presence was increased.
  
  Impact: We held 27 immigration legal clinics at UMC’s in Baltimore, Gaithersburg, Hyattsville, and Washington, DC. At the clinics, potential clients meet with our experienced attorney for in-depth legal consultations, and volunteers provide hospitality, refreshments, childcare, interpretation, and assistance with intakes. Our sole attorney opened 245 cases in 2017 (in addition to the 100+ cases still open and active from the prior year). The immigration process is incredibly slow, but we received positive results for many community members, including green cards, naturalizations, asylum grants, DACA grants, grants of motions to reopen, advanced parole, FOIA results, a grant of protection under the Violence Against Women, a T (trafficking) visa, a refugee travel document, approved family petitions, and many work permits.
  
  2018: We aim to provide the same level of high quality immigration legal services and hospitality, while increasing our capacity by increasing our staff and our office space to accommodate more staff and volunteers.
  
  Respectfully submitted by:
  Angela Edman, Esq., Staff Attorney
  Rev. Kenneth B. Hawes, Board Chairperson
Other
- Commission on Archives and History / Historical Society / Strawbridge Shrine
  
  Our Conference encompasses the foundation stones of both the United Brethren and Methodist Churches, which joined to create The United Methodist Church 50 years ago. Our goal in the coming year is to preserve and lift up our history, a story of divisions, reunions, faith and progress toward becoming “One Beneath the Cross.” Toward that end, a Pilgrimage Taskforce will be meeting throughout this year.
  
  United Methodist Historical Society
  
  The conference historical society, founded in 1855, began to exhibit the fruits of a century of collecting in the Museum at Lovely Lane Church in 1955. Fifty years ago, the UMC set up in each conference a “Commission on Archives and History, to preserve the records of the Conference, to maintain a firesafe archival and historical depository and to see that all current items [with] value for future history are preserved therein” (1972 Discipline ¶1277)
  
  Inasmuch as the Discipline allowed that “the officers of the Commission shall be the officers of the Annual Conference Historical Society,” Commission and Society have operated as one for the past 50 years. The Conference installed an archival vault alongside the museum in 1975 and since then has provided funds for its maintenance and employed an archivist and associate.
  
  That the state of this facility is not all that is should be became obvious last summer when an air conditioning leak led to a mold outbreak. Further analysis, by an industrial hygienist engaged by the Conference and a conservator engaged by the Society, revealed the need for a central air system and non-permeable flooring among other issues.
  
  We appreciate the work of the Archives staff, which was relocated to the Conference Mission Center for the latter half of 2017, and of the Conference Finance and Facilities staff in working toward a remedy for these issues.
  
  Strawbridge Shrine Association
  
  Fifty years ago, the Strawbridge Shrine was among 17 Methodist Shrines adopted by The United Methodist Church, the first of the original four designated in 1940 by The Methodist Church after its reunification, as “worthy objects for the care of the general Church.” (1940 Discipline ¶1741)
  
  Here Robert and Elizabeth Strawbridge settled (ca. 1760), and realized the first American Methodist preaching, classes and conversion (John Evans). This sacred site has developed as a historical park, including the log John Evans House, acquired by the Conference Historical Society and moved here in 1978, and a replica of the Strawbridge’s meetinghouse, built of period logs in 1982.
  
  Last year, the Association re-examined the condition of these structures and found significant cause for concern which it laid before the Conference Trustees. We are grateful for their grant of $50,000 to make immediate repairs. We are determined as an association, however, to raise funds for the continuing care of this site.
  
  Toward that end, we have established both a Preservation Fund and a National Council to lift up to the general church this sacred and historic site and the “worthy objects” which stand here as surviving witnesses to this first Methodist ministry in America.
  
  Submitted by:
  Emora Brannan, President United Methodist Historical Society
  Wm. Louis Piel, Interim Co-President Strawbridge Shrine Association
- Deaf Ministries
  
  Our Mission is to bring the love and salvation of Jesus Christ to people in the Deaf community and their families.
  
  Deaf Ministries of the Baltimore-Washington Conference is about bringing the love and salvation of Christ to the Deaf/DeafBlind in Deaf Space “where people feel safe to be and find themselves,” a community “where the view of Deaf people is valued, and their ownership of sign language is recognized,” and most of all, “Deaf people visiting the church see people like themselves up front, in a public role and can feel confident that someone will understand their problems and someone will listen to their point of view.” We respond to the “call to provide a foretaste of the Kingdom of God, a place where all may encounter the reality of GOD’S-RULE.” (Lewis, Hannah, et al. Deaf Liberation Theology. Taylor and Francis, 2016.)
  
  Goals:
  • Magothy Deaf UMC (MDUMC): Continue discipleship and outreach through leadership team development, community education, and Bible study.
  • Christ Deaf Church (CDC): Establish trainings for discipleship and church leadership.
  • Deaf Ministries (DM): Initiate Youth Group for Deaf teens to develop relationships and cultivate disciples.
  • Gallaudet University (GU): Develop impactful and relational events at Gallaudet University.
  • Deaf Shalom Zone (DSZ): Support those desiring to become citizens on the citizenship questions for the exam. Assist clients with literacy issues to gain access to agencies and medical professionals.
  
  Impact:
  • MDUMC has focused their giving and ministry and has trained new leaders. Deaf seniors are getting education and socialization.
  • CDC has three members who have completed CLM class one.
  • DM: Four teens went to ROCK and made commitments to Christ.
  • GU: students connected gratitude and faith by participating in a “thank you” note event.
  • DSZ: three clients are working on citizenship, one becoming a citizen, one waiting for testing and one working with JFON. Others are exploring healthier living situations or taking an active role in their own healthcare. Many more are improving relationships with family and friends, and with the Lord.
  
  By the end of 2018, we seek to:
  • Continue to disciple Magothy members, add outreach to other churches and communities.
  • Christ Deaf Church will host continued CLM classes as well as Bible studies to deepen and stretch members’ faith and understanding of relationship with our Lord.
  • Strengthen youth group through attending student sport games and shows.
  • Host monthly themed events for Gallaudet students.
  • Deaf Shalom Zone will continue serve the Deaf and DeafBlind Community with Case Management, Advocacy, Referrals and Education.
  • Raise $12,000 to continue the work of the Shalom Zone.
  
  Submitted by the Rev. Dr. Sandi E Johnson and Rev. Emily Smiley
- Global Partnerships (Eurasia, Puerto Rico, Zimbabwe)
  
  Eurasia Partnership: In Mission Together Eurasia Committee (IMTEC)
  
  Purpose: To promote joint ministry with United Methodists in Eurasia, in particular the covenant partnership between the Baltimore-Washington Conference and the South Russia Annual Conference.
  
  Impact:
  • Relationship building: Our teams and contacts this past year worked toward this end, including establishing a relationship with the new Superintendent of the Central Black Soil District.
  • Project support: Two teams went to Russia in 2017, focusing work at Camp Kristall near Voronezh, in partnership with participants from Virginia, Ohio, and New York. Both were present for support of Eurasian programs at the camp: one with “Camp Trinity,” ministering with persons having ability challenges; the other with the Youth (i.e., Young Adult) Mission Conference for facilities refurbishment and spiritual formation. Significant facilities improvements were made at the camp: partial roof replacement, accessibility work, and refits to the dining hall kitchen. Camp Kristall is a key strategic facility for the Russian UMC. “Camp Trinity” provides loving spiritual nurture to families facing enormous challenges; the Youth Mission Conference develops disciples and leaders and improves the camp’s physical venue.
  • We also provided direct support for needed capital improvements at the church in Kerch’ (South District) and program assistance for a church in Voronezh (Central Black Soil District). We further provided emergency assistance for a congregation in the Moscow region whose building was destroyed by fire.
  • Leadership Development: We continued to support and encourage the educational work of a key Russian church leader, and prepared to resume support for leadership training in Russia in 2018.
  • Coordinated with other conference IMTEC groups: In addition to the foregoing, we have worked to help reinforce connections between Virginia IMTEC and the South District.
  
  Goals for 2018:
  
  1. Continue support of key projects, including Camp Kristall, Roma Ministry (South District), Youth Mission Conference, and Women’s Conference. This is to be accomplished through direct support, mission teams, and relationship building.
  
  2. We are seeking to increase youth/young adult participation with IMTEC in our conference.
  
  3. We anticipate helping one leader to complete advanced training (D.Min.) in 2018-2019 through Wesley Seminary, and will be working with our Eurasian counterparts to continue encouraging leadership development.
  
  Submitted by: Rev. Charles L. Harrell, Chair, In Mission Together - Eurasia in BWC
  
  Puerto Rico Partnership
  
  Our goals for the year 2017-2018 were to: 1) identify specific areas of ministry and mission for mutual benefit in both conferences; and 2) to discuss the possibility of partnering in a ministry and/or mission together in a third location in Latin America/Caribbean area.
  
  Impact: Relationships among a number of local churches from both the Baltimore-Washington Conference and The Methodist Church in Puerto Rico continue to be strengthened. Local churches partnerships have been formed.
  
  In August 2017, a group of young adults from Puerto Rico assisted with their gifts in music and worship in our Latino family retreat at West River Camp. We were blessed by their presence.
  
  Due to the devastating impact of Hurricane Maria in the island, most of our efforts had been focused in supporting the Puerto Rico Methodist Church through financial support and assistance in the rebuilding process. As a conference, the BWC responded with generosity to assist in the initial weeks after the aftermath of Maria. In addition, I wish to express our gratitude to congregations such as Fallston UMC, Calvary UMC, Toms Creek and many anonymous others that shared their interest and in fact have supported the people of Puerto Rico through their provision via UMCOR.
  
  For 2018, it is our goal to continue supporting the rebuilding efforts and, as things continue to improve, target goal #1 by expanding and identifying ministry and mission opportunities both in the BWC area as well as in Puerto Rico.
  
  Submitted by Rev. Edgardo Rivera, Steward of the Partnership with Puerto Rico
  
  Zimbabwe Partnership
  
  Purpose: to advance the extensive mission partnership between the BWC and the Zimbabwe Episcopal Area (ZEA).
  
  Our goals in 2017 were to further the BWC partnership with Zimbabwe through the Pastor’s School, as well as local church and community development opportunities in several of the rural areas in Zimbabwe. We fulfilled yet another successful Pastor’s School at Africa University in Old Mutare, the 11th such school held between the two groups since the founding of the partnership.
  
  Furthermore, through the work of Volunteers in Mission, there will be two dedications this year — that of water and power projects in Dindi, and school block construction in Hanwa. Led by Charlie Moore and several others, VIM continues to do outstanding work.
  
  In addition, during the Pastor’s School trip, two communities experienced revitalization through the installation of boreholes, one in Gwese, a rural town in which the partnership helped rebuild a church several years ago, and another community in the Mutare South District of the ZEA. These efforts were led by the Rev. Tim Warner and the congregational support of the Emory Grove and Mill Creek Parish churches. In addition, continued support was provided to the Ishe Anesu school through Emory Church in Washington, D.C. Through the collective work of the partnership, many lives are being saved and enhanced holistically, communities are seeing economic and spiritual growth, churches and congregations are growing, and hope is being restored in areas that have undergone great struggle.
  
  By the end of 2018, we hope to hear of the launching of a major project to revitalize the Munyarari Clinic near Old Mutare. This effort is being led by Dave Talbot and the Bel Air Church. And, we look forward to the starting of other Zimbabwe VIM work through Community Church in Crofton and other congregations.
  
  Submitted by: Joseph W. Daniels, Jr., Chair, BWC Zimbabwe Partnership
- Hispanic Latino Ministries
  
  The purpose of this committee is to “support the development, implementation, and evaluation of a Hispanic-Latino comprehensive plan of action and the strategies for working with Hispanic-Latino persons of all generations in the community. (Book of Discipline ¶655)”
  
  Impact:
  • Hispanic-Latino congregations participated in strategic sessions to develop a new conference strategy on Hispanic-Latino Ministries, created a visioning plan to be aligned with the new conference strategy on Hispanic-Latino Ministries and identified a diverse group of leaders to guide the work in the following three areas:
  o Connectional Commitment — increase visibility, attention, and conference resources to fully integrate our communities into the life of the conference
  o Faithful Discipleship — to develop leadership for local congregations and identify language appropriate resources.
  o Education & Advocacy — to create a conference resource team to address two areas of focus: Public Policy and Cultural Competence.
  • At the Annual Hispanic-Latino Family Camp, we served 150 people. The theme of the retreat was “Finding Peace in Times of Stress,” based on Mark 6:31b. The space allowed for participants to share their concerns and stress about the political climate.
  • We celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with a Worship Service on October 7, 2017, at Millian Memorial UMC. The guest preacher was the Rev. Tony Love, Assistant to the Bishop. An offering was collected to support the Methodist Church in Puerto Rico in their Hurricane Maria efforts.
  • Lanham UMC launched a multi-contextual congregation with a Hispanic-Latino Ministry. After a couple of years of ground work, the congregation understands the importance of staying relevant to rapidly changing Lanham community and its greater area.
  
  Goals For 2018:
  • Faithful Discipleship: In partnership with the Office of Leadership Development and National Plan on Hispanic-Latino Ministry, a Lay Leadership School will be opened to train Hispanic-Latino laity for ministry. This program will begin in the fall.
  • Education and Advocacy: Offer a border immersion trip to the conference where folks will be able to learn about immigration and Latinos in the USA as part of the Hispanic Heritage Month.
  • Connectional Commitment: Increase conference participation in Hispanic Youth Leadership Academy (HYLA) and MARCHA the Hispanic-Latino Caucus of the UMC.
  
  Submitted by: Rev. Eliezer Valentin-Catañon, Committee Chair and Emma A Escobar, Coordinator of Hispanic-Latino Ministries
- United Methodist Men
  
  “Be ye Doers of the word and not just hearers only”Matthew25:37-40 (New Revised Standard)
  
  The year 2017 marked a new journey for the United Methodist Men of the Baltimore-Washington Conference (BWCUMM). We have an opportunity and an obligation to make a major impact on the thousands of men in our Conference. The mission of the BWCUMM is to assist men to know Jesus, to serve Him, to grow spiritually, and to seek daily to do His will. We do this by leading all our churches in the BWC to Charter and support EMS, “Every Man Shares through Evangelism,” Mission and Spiritual Life ministry.
  
  Impact:
  • We started the year with a ministry to feed the hungry and needy families in our Conference. In the Greater Washington District, Randall Memorial UMC distributed 43,000 pounds of potatoes to its community. The United Methodist Men from the Districts of Central Maryland, Frederick, Baltimore Metropolitan and Annapolis Districts distributed 25,000 pounds each of potatoes in their respected communities.
  • At the annual National Association of Conference UMM Presidents in Nashville, Tenn., BWCUMM’s Washington East District, Queen’s Chapel UMC in Beltsville was selected the “Best in Ministry.” Sixty-six members makes Queen’s Chapel UMM the largest unit of members in UMM in the United States.
  • One-hundred fifty-two men attended our Annual Prayer Breakfast, hosted by Queen’s Chapel UMC. We were blessed to have Bishop LaTrelle Miller Easterling as our speaker.
  • Our partnership ministry with the United Methodist Women continued this year with workshops at the Conference Center and a luncheon at our Annual Conference.
  • At the 12th National Gathering of United Methodist Men in Indianapolis, Ind. BWCUMM President Hampton Conway, Jr., and Queen’s Chapel local President Perry Collins, did a two-session presentation on “The Winner Is? How Did They Do It,” based on the power point presentation entered for the “Best Unit in Ministry.”
  
  The 2018-2020 Nomination of BWC UMM officers were presented and voted on. Officers are: President, Hampton E. Conway, Jr.; Vice President, Ceferino Epps; Secretary, Minister Riccardo Jefferson, Sr.; Treasurer, Garnett Henley; and Prayer Advocate, Bryon Gould.
  
  Our challenge for 2018 is to get officers to serve in the Cumberland-Hagerstown and the Frederick Districts. We also plan to increase the number of chartered churches from 120 by 30 percent and to expand our support of the Evangelism, Mission and Spiritual Life from 307 members by 30 percent or a number that truly honors God by “Helping men grow in Christ so others will know Christ.”
  
  Your Brother in Christ,
  Hampton E. Conway, Jr., BWC UMM President
- United Methodist Women
  
  Purpose: United Methodist Women shall be a community of women whose purpose is to know God and to experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ; to develop a creative, supportive fellowship; and to expand concepts of mission through participation in the global ministries of the church.
  
  The goal for 2017 was to inform and educate United Methodist Women and the community about long-term effects of imprisonment on the lives of families. The outcome yielded 450 discussions and events led by resource experts knowledgeable in the fields of Criminal Justice and Mass Incarceration. As women called by God to transform the world and its broken systems on behalf of women, children and youth, our vision — Turning Faith, Hope and Love into Action — energizes our commitments and generates new opportunities to serve the needs of others.
  
  The mission impact was awareness of the social burdens experienced by those in prison, the re-entry process and the need to transform opinions and judgments about citizens returning to the church community. A coalition will be established by United Methodist Women to fight against the problems created by Mass Incarceration.
  
  In 2018, the Baltimore-Washington Conference United Methodist Women are seeking more vital efforts, compassioned listening, and stronger relationships with districts, local units, key leaders and community organizations, to support the implementation of four initiatives: Climate Justice; Charter for Racial Justice; Maternal Health; and School-to-Prison Pipeline. This will lead to promoting and encouraging more creative action on our path for mission as women of faith.
  
  Submitted by: Elizabeth Mitchell Stemley, President
  Baltimore-Washington Conference United Methodist Women

Stewardship Reports

Council on Finance and Administration

2018 Stewardship Report to Annual Conference

The Council on Finance and Administration (CFA) report this year celebrates the faithfulness and dedication of the local churches of the Baltimore-Washington Conference. There is good news to be shared, not only in the telling, but also in the way CFA has applied the success in 2017 to the 2019 budget to the direct benefit of our local churches.

It is good news that the local churches in our conference continue to set record high apportionment giving in 2017. The collection rate of 92.45% beat the budget estimate of 92% for the second year in a row. The 2019 budget continues this projection at 92%. This has been a realistic expectation set at the same rate since 2015.

Total local church income for the churches of the Baltimore-Washington Conference grew significantly in 2017. This continues a trend measured since 2012. Our apportionment base also grew by almost 1% in 2017. While it seems inevitable that costs will increase each year for both local churches and the conference, CFA undertook to mitigate a portion of that effect for the local churches by reducing the benevolence factor from 17.725% to 17.600% for the 2019 budget. This follows a reduction also in 2018. This reduced apportionment income by $100,000 from what it would have been under the 2018 rate. The effect is to maintain the level of apportionment income or ministry shares between $14.2 million and $14.3 million. This is the seventh year in a row CFA has set apportionment income at a consistent and stable level. This is intended to provide predictability and stability for the local churches in their connectional giving.

The 2019 budget also continues strategic initiatives to accelerate the payments on the mortgage for the conference center and new camping facilities. This has the potential to save us $1million in interest if we are able to pay off this debt early in 2022. Retiree medical expenses will continue to be paid wholly from reserves and with no contribution from apportionments. CFA has also increased its target for reserves from 10% to 15% of apportionment income to be completed in 2019. With the positive fund balance from 2017, we are currently at 13.8%. A highlight, both financially and otherwise, is the outstanding income and program performance of Retreat and Camping Ministries.

In addition, the 2019 budget reflects the new structure of the Discipleship Ministries and will provide transparency and accountability as we engage in this new structure. It provides increased funding for these ministries. It also includes almost $80,000 in new outside grant income. It reduces stewardship expenses and is a balanced budget.

CFA has considered potential risks to both local church income and connectional giving that can take effect in 2018 and 2019. Effective in 2018, changes in the Federal Tax laws may affect charitable contributions, and in February 2019 the “Way Forward” process will be voted on at the Special Session of the General Conference. Either or both of these events may have negative effects on local churches and a ripple effect on ministries of the Baltimore-Washington Conference. CFA stresses that adverse effects are only potential risks and not a certainty. While the effects are currently unknown, they will evolve over the next two years. CFA is boosting its reserves and, together with other affected agencies, will follow events closely, remain flexible, and develop strategies to address their effects.

2017 Financial Results (Pre-Audit):

Income

The apportionment/mission share income in 2017 was $14,288,609 with an overall collection rate of 92.45%. For the fourth straight year, the Conference has set a record high for the collection rate. The collection rate budget was set at 92.0% and the positive performance was better than budget by $69,686 (0.5%). The apportionment giving was actually $54,699 (0.4%) lower than the prior year which is simply a factor of a lower apportionment budget in 2017.

The collection rates recorded in recent years are as follows:

2017:   92.45%                                   2012:   89.10%
2016:   92.08%                                   2011:   90.46%
2015:   91.66%                                   2010:   90.51%
2014:   90.77%                                   2009:   89.24%
2013:   89.84%                                   2008:   87.00%

The number of churches contributing 100% towards their mission shares remained high with 82% of our local churches meeting that standard. The number of churches giving 100% of their mission shares was 84% in 2016, 83% in 2015, and 82% in 2014.

The non-apportionment income in 2017 was $4.4 million which was $41,000 (0.9%) less than budget. On actually a good note, the non-apportionment income was $298,000 less than expected due to the lower funding that was required from the Board of Pensions Reserves to pay for Retiree medical benefit expenses that were 16% less than budget. That negative performance was offset by more than budget performance in Retreat and Camping Ministry revenues that exceeded their budget by $87,000. Earnings on investments were also stronger than expected with net gains of $73,000 greater than budget. Overall, the non-apportionment income was $1.4 million more than the prior year as a result of the change in the 2017 budget that funded all of the Retiree medical benefits from the Board of Pensions Reserve instead of apportionment funding.

Expenses

The total expenses in 2017 were $18.2 million which was $434,300 (2.3%) less than budget. The most significant financial pressures were the Zimbabwe Partnership expenses that exceeded budget by $57,000 and annual conference expenses that exceeded total income by $30,000. These were offset by under budget performance in Retiree Medical expenses at $298,000, as mentioned previously under the non-apportionment income. Other expenses under budget included moving costs - $49,000, legal - $47,000, and insurance - $35,000.

Overall, the resulting net income prior to audit was a positive $462,494 which is 2.5% of budget. There are many factors that contributed to this strong financial performance in 2017. We especially give thanks to our local churches who remain so strong in their connectional giving.

BWC Apportionment Base:

The expenses of a local church as they are reported in the annual collection of statistical data, minus dollars that are spent on mission, outreach, debt service and capital projects comprise what is known as the apportionment base for a church. The apportionment for a local church is derived by multiplying the apportionment base by the Benevolence Factor that is established by the Annual Conference when the budget is approved. Using this method, our current Benevolence Factor of 17.725% yields an apportionment that is most commonly in the range of 9-12% of total local church expenses or income.

The apportionment base for the Conference is an accumulated total of the apportionment base that is calculated for each local church. The reported base increased by 1.0% in 2017. The apportionment base trends with the year-over-year changes are as follows:

            2017:   $ 88,283,704 (+1.0%)
2016:   $ 87,449,322 (+0.4%)
2015:   $ 87,072,403 (-0.8%)
2014:   $ 87,780,638 (+1.1%)
2013:   $ 86,835,908 (+0.8%)
2012:   $ 86,169,509 (-1.3%)
2011:   $ 87,341,343 (-2.1%)
2010:   $ 89,250,232 (+6.1% vs. 2008)
2009:   Not Applicable – Kept the prior year’s base and budget
2008:   $ 84,095,541 (+3.0%)
2007:   $ 81,646,157

2019 Budget:

The proposed budget for 2019 builds on the strategic initiatives that were first introduced in the 2017 budget. These initiatives include:

1.Increase Level of CFA Reserves from 10% to 15%

With the positive fund balance from 2017, the CFA Reserves now stand at 13.8% of the apportionment budget. The 2019 budget includes $100,000 towards the increased level of CFA reserves to reach the 15% goal.

2.Accelerate Payment of Conference Debt

The consolidated loan for the West River Dining Hall and the Mission Center will be reduced to a balance of $2.1 million with the proposed 2019 budget that includes $600,000 towards accelerated debt payments. The loan balance stood at $5.2 million at the end of 2016 prior to starting the accelerated payments. The 2019 budget keeps the Conference on pace to pay off the loan in 2022 which will be 6 years ahead of schedule with $1.0 million total savings in interest payments.

3. Fund Retiree Medical Benefits from Reserves

Retiree medical benefits will continue to be funded from the Board of Pension reserves without any additional funding coming from apportionments. The retiree medical funding in 2019 is set at $1,635,000 which is based on the current expense trends for this benefit.

The 2019 budget also includes a reduction of the Benevolence Factor from 17.725% down to 17.60%. This builds on the reduction from 17.75% that was included in the 2018 budget. The reduction in the Benevolence Factor is consistent with the CFA’s multi-year plan to keep making progress towards the goal that the average church’s apportionments be no more than 10% of their overall income. That level is currently calculated at 10.6% based on the 2017 statistics. This is down from 12.3% in 2011.

Overall, the budget proposal consists of an apportionment income of $14,294,897 which is an increase of $34,536 or 0.2% from the prior year. The budget assumes a 92.0% collection rate for the apportionments which is consistent with the actual results for 2016 and 2017. The non-apportionment income is increased by $231,592 to $4,435,367 which is driven by increases in external grants and the recognition of $200,000 from the sale of discontinued churches that will now be recorded in the budget as revenue to fund grants for new church starts.

The expense budget shows an increase in Discipleship Ministry programs of 3.7% from $11.1 to $11.5 million. The stewardship and administrative programs will be reduced by 1.9% from $6.9 to $6.8 million. The budget incorporates a 2.5% increase in salary, completes the phaseout of Regional Resource Coordinators, and funds the hiring of a new full-time position to lead New Faith Expressions.

Other line items of significance include:

• The General Conference apportionments will be reduced to $3,481,744 which is a decrease of $89,866 (-2.5%).
• Retreat and Camping Ministries revenues are projected to grow an additional 4.5% in 2019 which continues to be a very good news story.

Summary

The future continues to unfold and we will continue to rise to meet our financial challenges, strengthened by a willingness to operate in ways both traditional and innovative. We will continue to strengthen communications about our connectional ministries and how apportionments are used throughout the connection. We are blessed as a conference by financial stability and by the resources we have in terms of partnerships, both realized and envisioned.

The Baltimore-Washington Conference continues to develop its stewardship so that vital and vibrant communities can be born and prosper, so that our connections at both local and global levels can be strengthened and increased, and so that all local churches can experience the benefits of the connectional system of which we are all a part. We recognize God’s presence at work through it all and thank God as well as appreciate the uniqueness of each local church.

CFA continues to do its work in a spirit that we pray is cooperative and well-focused. As we continue to stand together as a connectional church, we will find both causes to celebrate and the ability to face our challenges together. We will work together for the greater good of which we are all a part, keeping in mind that all that we have and all that we are is from God.

Respectfully Submitted,

Phil Potter, President, Council on Finance and Administration
Paul J. Eichelberger, Conference Treasurer
- 2019 Proposed Narrative Budget
  BUDGET ASSUMPTIONS
  Benevolence Factor – Proposed 2019: 17.600%
  
  The benevolence factor is the percentage churches are apportioned based on their operating expenditures less exclusions. The percentage for 2019 is .125% less than the percentage used in 2018 (17.725%).
  
  Apportionment Collection Rate - Proposed 2019: 92.0%
  
  The projected collection of the amount apportioned to churches in the 2019 Budget is 92.0%. There is no change from the 2018 budget.
  
  REVENUE
  
  Apportionments: $14,294,897
  
  A church’s share of the local and global mission work and operating expenses of the Annual Conference as determined by the apportionment formula.
  
  Grants: $180,850
  
  This represents grants given directly to the conference for ministry and mission. For example, General Church grants to operate the Episcopal Office and residence.
  
  Event Registration: $2,145,359
  
  This includes Annual Conference registration, workshop registrations, Retreat and Camping Ministries registrations (majority of line item) and other conference events.
  
  Publications: $4,100
  
  This includes sales or rentals of publications, DVDs, paid UMConnection subscriptions, and other materials.
  
  Individual Gifts:
  
  Gifts coming from individuals for specific programs. These are for the conference, specifically, rather than for ministries outside of the conference. No such gifts are anticipated in 2019.
  
  Reimbursements: $103,600
  
  The conference receives reimbursements from denominational agencies for specific operating programs. The Mission Center tenant leases are also captured in this revenue category.
  
  Other Income/Sources of Funds: $1,971,458
  
  Miscellaneous income or sources of funds, such as the funding from agency reserve funds. For example, Retiree Medical expenses (majority of line item) are 100% paid from the Board of Pension Reserves. The funds from the sale of discontinued churches are used to fund a portion of the New Faith Expressions.
  
  Interest: $30,000
  
  An estimate of the interest the conference will earn on operating funds in investment vehicles.
  
  TOTAL OPERATING REVENUE: $ 18,730,264
  
  EXPENSES
  
  I. DISCIPLESHIP EXPENSES
  
  Regional Ministry Teams: $2,244,496
  
  Funds to operate the ministries and administrative support of the Regions. The Regional Teams include:
  
  •Southern Region (Annapolis and Washington East Districts)
  •Baltimore Region (Baltimore Metro and Baltimore Suburban Districts)
  •Washington Region (Greater Washington and Central Maryland Districts)
  •Western Region (Frederick and Cumberland-Hagerstown Districts)
  
  Discipleship Ministry Teams
  
  Discipleship Ministries
  
  A. Discipleship Ministries: $1,231,618
  
  Funds to operate the ministries and administrative aspects of the Discipleship Ministries and Congregation/Leadership
  
       Development Teams. Funds are also allocated for Discipleship Council, Connectional Table and Board of Laity.
  
  B. General and Jurisdictional Apportionments: $3,481,744
  
  The funds that the General Church and Northeast Jurisdiction request for ministry and programs from each conference. The conference celebrates its track record of paying 100% of these apportionments since 1998. General Church funds include:
  
  World Service
  
  To help our denomination to strengthen its evangelism efforts, stimulate church growth, expand Bible studies and enrich spiritual commitment. This fund allows us to share in a worldwide ministry, including support for missionaries.
  
  Interdenominational Cooperation
  
  This fund allows United Methodists to have an effective presence in the activities of ecumenical organizations.
  
  Africa University
  
  This fund supports the further development of the first private university for men and women in Africa.
  
  Black College Fund
  
  This fund represents the denomination’s support of the operation and capital funding of historically black colleges and medical schools.
  
  Ministerial Education Fund
  
  This fund provides our church support for the recruitment and education of future pastors and bishops.
  
  Episcopal Fund
  
  This fund pays the salaries and benefits of active bishops in the denomination and supports retired bishops.
  
  General Administration
  
  This fund supports administrative areas of the church, such as the General Council on Finance and Administration, the General Conference session, and Archives and History.
  
  Jurisdictional Administration
  
  This fund supports mission and ministry through the Northeastern Jurisdiction.
  
  Leadership Development and New Faith Expressions: $1,504,728
  
  •Grants to local churches and ministries to grow congregations and expand ministry in the community.
  •Start new churches
  •Board of Ordained Ministry
  •Certified Lay Ministry
  
  Young People's Ministry: $2,290,349
  
  Ministries funded by Young People's Ministry include Children, Youth, Young Adults, Campus Ministries, and Retreat and Camping ministries.
  
  •Youth Ministries engage and support young disciples of Jesus Christ.
  • Retreat and Camping Ministries provide opportunities for spiritual growth and formation for children and adults.
  • Campus Ministries support staffing and programs on four area college campuses.
  
  Advocacy & Action; Abundant Health: $777,851
  
  Social Justice Ministries such as Justice for our Neighbors, NEJ Call to Action, and Hope for the City are funded through Advocacy
  
  and Action. Funds are also devoted to Deaf Ministries. Abundant Health includes funds for our partnership ministries with other
  
  conferences, such as Zimbabwe, South Korea, Latin America, and Eurasia.
  
  Total Discipleship Ministry Teams: $9,286,290
  
  TOTAL DISCIPLESHIP EXPENSES: $11,530,786
  
  II. STEWARDSHIP EXPENSES
  
  Communications: $603,618
  
  The publications produced by this area are tools for implementing the ministries of the Conference, such as the UMConnection newspaper, the Web site and e-connection.
  
  Operations: $3,587,275
  
  This area is responsible for overall operations of the conference including all conference infrastructures, facilities, IT, conference owned property, and relates to the Trustees and CFA.
  
  Property Ministries
  
  The Conference Trustees oversee all property owned by the conference, to include the Conference Mission Center, three Retreat and Camping facilities, the Episcopal Residence and the leased offices in Hagerstown and on Capitol Hill.
  
  Archives and History
  
  The conference provides support for the preservation of our United Methodist Heritage.
  
  Conference Chancellor
  
  Provides legal resources to the Trustees and other conference leadership.
  
  Annual Conference – Commission on Sessions
  
  The commission prepares all aspects of the annual conference session including program and logistics.
  
  Finance: $546,008
  
  This area is responsible for maintaining and administering comprehensive fiscal and administrative policies and services. The office of the treasurer provides support and information for clergy and laity in local churches.
  
  HR/Benefits Administration: $2,060,833
  
  This office administers all active and retired benefit plans for clergy and laity. They also provide personnel and HR support for Conference staff.
  
  TOTAL STEWARDSHIP EXPENSES: $6,797,734
  
  Episcopal Leadership Ministry: $401,744
  
  Ministries that lead our mission and develop the leadership to lead congregations, ministries and staff.
  
  TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES: $18,730,264
  
  OPERATING NET: $0
- 2019 Proposed Budget (PDF)
Board of Pensions
The Board of Pensions and Health Benefits continues to pursue its goal of enabling clergy and lay staff to accomplish their ministries without concern for their long-term financial or medical protection. We continue to position ourselves to face the challenges that lie ahead and to assist clergy and staff in their mission.
Pensions:

• Pre-82 Service Funding: The 2018 Past Service Rate (PSR) is confirmed at $692. We recommend that the PSR for 2018 be set at $720. ¶1506.7 (2016 Discipline) confers authority upon the Annual Conference to review the annuity rate for Pre-82 service and to adjust the PSR rate as appropriate taking into consideration the changes in the economy. Such annuity rate may remain the same or be increased without restriction. Wespath Benefits and Investments actuarial valuation for Pre-82 Annuities as of January 1, 2017, showed a more than fully funded plan, requiring no monies to be paid by BWC. The pre-82 plan surplus results from increases in valuation of the securities in the account. Wespath has authorized a mechanism by which we have been able to employ some of the excess Pre-82 funds to indirectly fund our Retiree Medical Plan reserve. Pre-82 is the pension plan in place prior to 1982.
• Ministerial Pension Plan (MPP) Funding: Wespath Benefits and Investments’ actuarial valuation for MPP Annuities as of January 1, 2017, showed that it is also a fully funded plan, requiring no monies to be paid by BWC. Monies previously contributed to MPP continue to be held in individual participant accounts. MPP is the pension plan in place from 1982 through 2006
• Clergy Retirement Security Program (CRSP) Funding: The Baltimore-Washington Conference funds the program as follows:
• CRSP Defined Contribution (DC) — BWC continues to collect 3% of participant’s plan compensation (salary plus housing) to fund the Defined Contribution (DC). Two percent goes directly to the participant’s DC account. The participant is now required to enroll in the United Methodist Personal Investment Plan (UMPIP) with a contribution of at least 1% of plan compensation in order to receive a match of up to 1%.
• CRSP Defined Benefit (DB) — BWC continues to collect 12% of the participant’s plan compensation, limited by the DAC (Denominational Average Compensation) to fund the Defined Benefit portion of CRSP.

Comprehensive Protection Plan (CPP):

• BWC continues to collect 3% of a clergy participant’s plan compensation (salary plus housing) for the Comprehensive Protection Plan (CPP). The CPP provides death and disability benefits for all eligible participants. As of the last General Conference, Wespath Benefits and Investments revised their policies to treat clergy mental illness in the same fashion as any other illness for CPP purposes. The Conference Board of Pensions and Health Benefits has voted to provide the necessary funds to eliminate anti-mental illness discrimination for lay employees as well.

UMLifeOptions:

• Eligibility changes were approved at the 2016 General Conference to eliminate the special arrangement coverage for ordained clergy appointed to ½ or ¼ time as of 12/31/2016. Conferences were given options to purchase life and disability insurance for these clergy through UMLifeOptions.
• Effective 1/1/2017, active ordained clergy appointed to ½ or ¼ time are now enrolled in UMLifeOptions, BWC will collect 3% of clergy participant’s plan compensation (salary plus housing) to cover the premiums.

Health:

• HealthFlex: Effective January 1, 2017, all eligible participants have been enrolled in the Wespath HealthFlex Exchange Plans. The HealthFlex Exchange brings more plan options and more flexibility for enrollees to select the HealthFlex plan that best fits each individual need. The HealthFlex Exchange is not a public exchange and is not associated with government agencies. It is a multiple-option group health plan designed for United Methodist Church clergy, lay employees and their families.

• Retirees: Retirees who are over age 65 will continue to work with OneExchange to choose policies better suited to their individual needs. Retirees are offered a stipend based on years of service. Retirees who are under age 65 or any future participants who retire before age 65 will remain on the HealthFlex Exchange plan until the month they turn 65.

Social Security: Your Board strongly recommends that all clergy of the Conference participate in Social Security, and not exercise any conscience clauses to opt out of Social Security. Eligibility for Medical benefits through OneExchange in retirement and Disability benefits through the CPP program, are both dependent on participation in Social Security and Medicare. Thus, one’s irrevocable decision to opt out of Social Security is a decision to be excluded from these Conference programs as well.

Arrearage: In order to assure that nothing interferes with clergy continued medical and pension coverage, BWC first makes the necessary payments to Wespath when due and then collects the premiums from individual churches. There is a continuing problem with a small number of churches which fall behind in this pastoral compensation commitment. The Bishop’s Task Force on Arrearages, comprised of two District Superintendents, the Chair of the Board of Pensions, and Conference staff, has developed approaches to more intensive management of churches which are in arrears, for medical and pension arrearages often are symptomatic of other challenges to ministry and finances the church is facing. A Church in arrears may be offered a forbearance program where collection of the arrearage is forborne for three years while the church focuses its efforts on greater effectiveness in ministry. Churches successfully completing this program may have the arrearage converted to a contingent liability, effective only in the event that the church property is sold.

During 2017, the initial forbearance churches completed their three years. Seven churches satisfied the forbearance agreement and received a contingent liability status, and five had their forbearance period extended for an additional 12 months. Four new church forbearances are pending.

The objective is to make every effort to help churches return to health both in their ministry and their finances. The total arrearage at the end of 2017 for non-participating churches was $356,511. Arrearages for forbearance churches totaled $275,096, not including the forbearance amount of $328,220.

2019 General Conference: In response to concerns regarding proposals which may or may not be made in connection with the 2019 General Conference, the CBOPHB has reviewed its areas of responsibility to identify any possibilities that might affect the pensions and medical insurance of those for whom the CBOPHB is responsible, and is confident these obligations can be met regardless of events in 2019.

Final Comments: The CBOPHB thanks Francess Tagoe, Director, Human Resources and Benefits for her enthusiastic and professional work on behalf of our participants and the Board. She effectively communicates and administers the benefits based on Plan rules and regulations, the Book of Discipline, the Conference's policies and procedures, and all applicable state and federal laws so that there is an understanding of the benefits for our clergy and lay employees. It is her goal and the Board's goal to continue to provide the best possible benefits package for our plan participants, while maintaining the utmost care for and fiduciary responsibility to you, the Plan participants, and those in the Baltimore-Washington Conference for whom we owe the same. We wish to also give thanks to Karen Conroy, HR and Benefits Associate; Pier McPayten, Controller; and the District Superintendents who all support the work we do.

Jackson H. Day, Chair
Paul J. Eichelberger, Treasurer
Board of Trustees
This is my final report as the Chair of the Baltimore Washington Conference Board of Trustees. I would like to give me heartfelt thanks to the members of the Board, Paul Eichelberger, Moe Battley, Pier McPayton, and the entire Finance Department of the Conference. Your guidance, help and support has made my role easier and, as an Annual Conference, we are blessed by your service.
It has been a busy and productive year for the Annual Conference Board of Trustees. Our primary role is to safeguard and protect the interests and rights of the Annual Conference. While it would be difficult to summarize all the Trustee Board’s work, I would like to note some of the Board’s accomplishments:

In partnership with Retreat and Camping Ministries, upgrades and improvements have been made at both Manidokan and West River Camp sites. We’ve worked with the Conference Archivist to make needed upgrades to the museum at Lovely Lane UMC, where Annual Conference historical records are kept. We also assisted the Strawbridge Shrine with needed repairs to several buildings at the Shrine.

Through our loans and grants, we were able to aid several churches, located throughout the Annual Conference, with emergency loans, as well as support new initiatives to aid churches to upgrade their properties to reach new people.

The Board of Trustees continued this year to provide training at the Regional Leadership Days on the role and responsibilities of local church Trustees, and to support local churches by being available to answer questions and provide guidance on local church trustee matters.

Again, I am grateful to all of the Trustees who faithfully serve, and to the conference office on Finance and Administration. Their cooperation and assistance has been invaluable.

Peace and Joy,
Rev. Dr. Bill Brown, Chair
MidAtlantic Foundation

The MAUMF provides Stewardship Education and Investment Services

2017 Accomplishments:

Stewardship Education — Conference pastors continued to participate in the comprehensive Financial Leadership Academy’s two-year program. A new Academy for Church Finance was launched, providing an opportunity for clergy and laity to work together to improve stewardship within a congregation. Planned Giving Education resulted in new donors making legacy gifts to churches, agencies, and ministries of the Annual Conference.

Investments — The Mid-Atlantic United Methodist Foundation became the first faith-based foundation to become a “Certified Fiduciary.” This was awarded by the Center for Fiduciary Excellence, an independent global assessment and certification organization. The Foundation increased the number of client churches and agencies it serves to record levels.

Invested assets entrusted to the Foundation’s care reached $100 million dollars.

2017 Impact — A record number of individuals participated in stewardship education programs to increase financial resources in support of ministry programs. In 2017, the Foundation paid over $5.5 million dollars to local churches and agencies in ministry funding.

2018

The Foundation is completing a new 3-year Strategic Plan establishing new goal for the future.

New opportunities for stewardship education are being designed to meet the increasing needs of the local church.

Expanded investment offerings and reporting processes will support the increasing requirements of comprehensive care for Church assets and investments.

Leadership Reports

Discipleship Council | Board of Ordained Ministry | Rules Committee | Commission on Communications | Nominations

Discipleship Council
The Discipleship Council had a very productive year. Since July 1, 2017, we have met five times and held one conference call. We elected the Rev. Jenny Cannon as our secretary; Hazel Jackson as our representative to the Ministry Relationship Oversight Committee (a standing committee of the Discipleship Council); and the Rev. Michael Parker as our second representative to the Connectional Table (CT). The Chairperson of the Council is the other representative to the CT.
Due to some confusion about the role, responsibilities, and purpose of the Discipleship Council, we reviewed our current structure and discussed how the Discipleship Council fits into that structure. The Discipleship Council was created as part of the Baltimore Washington Conference (BWC) restructuring that took place in 2005 and 2006. In 2013, the Annual Conference passed a resolution to update the composition and purpose of the Discipleship Council, which “shall be to (a) discern, develop and recommend Conference vision and goals to the Annual Conference Session; (b) review and evaluate progress toward the Conference vision and goals; and (c) ensure that Conference resources align to our vision, mission, and goals. The Council shall coordinate and consult with the Conference Council on Finance and Administration regarding the annual budget.” The Discipleship Council is required to meet at least quarterly.

We began our meetings with time for prayer and/or a devotion and read Ephesians 4:1-6 and 11-16 (The Message). We read and discussed The Anatomy of Peace by the Arbinger Institute, a book proposed for study to the Annual Conferences and General Conference delegations by The Commission on the Way Forward.

The Discipleship Council fulfilled our role, responsibilities, and purpose in several ways. We reviewed the Annual Conference evaluations and provided that information to the Sessions Committee. We reviewed, discussed, and offered feedback about the Annual Conference response to the NEJ Call to Action for Racial Reconciliation, including the covenant cards that are being used to evaluate AC membership response to the Call to Action; and the ReCall Summit held in October 2017. We discussed and provided feedback regarding a possible restructure of the BWC Discipleship ministry agencies.

We also developed a new BWC Mission Statement, which will be presented to the Annual Conference for action, via resolution, at this Annual Conference.

The Council also thoroughly reviewed and provided feedback regarding the 2019 budget. Discipleship Council member Carol Travis represented the Council at a budget “stakeholders” meeting. The entire Council met with BWC CF&A Chair Phil Potter and Treasurer Paul Eichelberger to review and provide feedback regarding the budget proposal.

In 2014, the Annual Conference established a Ministry Relationship Oversight Committee (MROC) as a standing committee of the Discipleship Council. This year the MROC reported one application for ministry relationship to the Council. This application is pending as the MROC obtains additional information requested by the Council.

Additionally, this application highlighted procedural challenges that the MROC and Council plan to evaluate over the next year. This evaluation will consider whether the procedure can be streamlined, different levels of ministry relationship are feasible, and there are other changes necessary to accomplish the goals of MROC as established by the Annual Conference.

In the coming year, the Council anticipates evaluating the BWC Vision Statement. In all our work, we seek to enable the Annual Conference to more efficiency and effectively inspire and equip the development of disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Respectfully submitted,
Jen Ihlo, Chair
Board of Ordained Ministry
During the 2017-18 Conference year, the Baltimore-Washington Board of Ordained Ministry has served on behalf of all persons across the Conference called to representative ministry of the church as licensed, commissioned and ordained persons. The Board is comprised of 54 lay and clergy persons who serve on behalf of more than 1,100 persons under our care as either candidates for ministry, actively commissioned provisional members, Deacons and Elders in full connection, and retired members.
This year, the Board has sought to strengthen its work by engaging in several initiatives. These included working throughout the year to continue to clarify and affirm our values, engaging in Cultural Competency training for the entire Board, and holding our first “Living Your Call” recruitment and enlistment event. We have worked to strengthen relationships with the seminaries with which we relate, and we are currently working on developing a framework for resourcing clergy around sexual ethics and boundaries. Additionally, our Board’s Human Sexuality Task Force has worked to help clarify Board Policy and Practices as it regards the diversity among those we serve on behalf of the Church.

In accordance with paragraph 635 of the 2016 Book of Discipline, an important part of our work is serving as stewards of the process of supporting, evaluating and examining persons who have offered themselves as candidates for ordained ministry as Deacons and Elders. Our eight district committees on ordained ministry and the BoOM have worked tirelessly throughout the year to ensure that processes of evaluation and examination are accomplished with integrity, fairness and clarity for all candidates and provisional members under our care. We have continued to work to perfect several policies and procedures that inform our work for evaluating of candidates for ministry, with the goal of discerning ways that together we can continue to engage in ministry that is faithful and fruitful toward the end of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of our communities and the world.

The Board of Ordained Ministry takes the opportunity to thank Bishop LaTrelle Easterling for her ongoing prayers, support and guidance of our work; the Rev. John Nupp, the Director of the Center for Clergy Excellence, for his outstanding leadership in managing and facilitating the perfecting of our practices for supporting clergy and those preparing for ordained ministry; and Mrs. Debbie Albrecht for her stellar administrative support of the Board of Ordained Ministry’s work.

As we conclude this Conference year and move forward, we continue to solicit your prayers for our work on behalf of those who seek to serve Christ in the representative ministries of the church, for the Baltimore-Washington Conference, The United Methodist Church, and Christ’s Church universal.

Rev. Dr. C. Anthony Hunt, Chair
BWC Board of Ordained Ministry
Rules Committee
The Rules Committee worked on several projects in the last year. We crafted proposals for new deadlines for conference reports, resolutions to Annual Conference, and petitions to General Conference. Given both the number of other resolutions that were offered for the 2018 Annual Conference and the compact schedule for this year, however, we decided to defer our resolutions dealing with those proposals.
The committee also met with the Director of Connectional Ministries, Christie Latona. She discussed ideas for restructuring Annual Conference committees. The Rules Committee voted that such changes would require the cooperation and approval of the Rules Committee.

The most significant change for this committee was in its leadership. After years of serving as the chair, Jen Ihlo transitioned to her new role as chair of the Discipleship Council. The Rules Committee is grateful for her service and expertise, and we are glad that she will continue as an ex officio member. The Rev. Mark Gorman was elected the new chair.

Rev. Mark Gorman, Chair
Commission on Communications
The Communications Staff and the Commission seek to tell the story of God as lived out by the people of the Baltimore-Washington Conference.
In an award-winning newspaper, website, e-newsletter, and with video and through social media, a four-member Communications staff informs, equips and inspires the BWC’s spiritual leaders. We are blessed by the steady witness provided by Melissa Lauber (Director), the Rev. Erik Alsgaard (Managing Editor) and Alison Burdett (Multimedia Producer), who collect and communicate the Good News from the diverse corners of our Annual Conference. This year, we welcomed Myca Jones, who serves as webmaster and has an expertise in video production. Myca has already significantly enriched the presence of BWC multiple media platforms. We also celebrate Linda Worthington, who tirelessly volunteers her time as an outstanding writer and editor. Thanks to this staff, quality materials are available for use around the Conference. Approximately 9,000 copies of the UMConnection newspaper are distributed each month; our Facebook and Twitter pages have seen an increase of approximately 10 percent in their followership; and our e-connection goes out weekly to over 4,000 members! Based on feedback from our younger membership, we have revitalized our Instagram platform. We look forward to increased followership in all media in the year ahead.

The Conference Commission works in partnership with the staff. This year, we moved toward a collaborative role rather than advisory. To that end, we identified BWC members who, in addition to representing a cross section of our annual conference demographically, also bring a diversity of expertise. Members of the Commission represent clergy and laity; all Regions of our Annual Conference; and bring strategic skills in writing, video production, local church resourcing, photography, and education. Members have partnered with individuals on the staff to provide advice, feedback, and ideas for content. Additionally, they act as liaisons between the staff and their constituent location or ministry areas. The Commission is leading efforts to create a significant inaugural photography retreat that focuses on the power and spirituality of image. It will be held in October 2018.

We look forward to the next year and our continuing role in spreading the Good News throughout the Baltimore-Washington Conference and beyond.

Mittie Quinn, Chair, Commission on Communications
Melissa Lauber, Director of Communications
Nominations
The purpose of the Conference Commission on Nominations is to identify and nominate gifted spiritual leaders to serve on Commissions, Boards and Agencies of the Baltimore-Washington Conference.
This year, the Nominations Committee changed the nominations process to help reach new people, ensure diversity, and nominate people to positions that match their spiritual gifts and expertise. To support the work involved, a staff project manager worked closely with committee leadership. Goals for the Nominations Project were to:

1. Have a completed and verified nominations slate at least one month prior to Annual conference.
2. By July 1, 2018, stimulate participation in boards agencies by lay and clergy responding to God’s calling who have a passion and commitment to the ministry and to have balanced representation of lay, clergy, age, gender, district, demographic, race, ethnicity along with skills needed for Annual Conference agencies’ work.
3. By July 1, 2020, committees exemplify effective, collaborative teaming and develop skilled servant leaders serving as the body of Christ.

The Director of Connectional Ministries gathered information from existing committees, which was used by the Commission on Nominations members to guide their work. Agency chairs provided information on their vacancies and the goals and work of their committees as well as the skills/gifts needed that was used to develop an interest form and shared with potential nominees. Nominations developed a “Survey of Interest Form” to “help match people to their best place of serving in the Body of Christ.” The form was widely distributed and those desiring to serve on a conference committee were required to submit it.

Regional teams, led their District Lay Leaders, were given the task of reviewing their region’s Interest Forms and matching persons with the vacant positions for their regions. Potential nominees were contacted and provided with a discernment process to guide their decision to serve or not to serve.

The majority of the Nominations decided not to populate inactive committees with new people and put those people on newly created “interim” boards under five focus areas: Leadership, Young Peoples Ministry, New Faith Expressions, Advocacy and Action, and Abundant Health. All chairs, new and returning, will receive training in July 2018.

Our hope is that by 2019, the Nominations Committee will have evaluated the new process, made needed changes and transitioned to a better way of fulfilling its purpose. Nominations wants to be good stewards of our gifts, time, talent and resources.

Sarah Ford, Chair

Institutional Reports

Africa University
Africa University enjoyed a banner year in 2017, thanks to the local congregations, leadership, and individual members of The United Methodist Church. United Methodists in the Baltimore-Washington Conference and throughout the connection spearheaded special celebration events marking Africa University’s 25^th anniversary. These efforts brought Africa University’s progress and ministry contributions to the fore, allowing congregations to reaffirm their commitment to the institution’s mission of nurturing global leaders who transform communities.
The university community — students, faculty, administrators and support staff, trustees, alumni, partners and friends — is deeply thankful to the Baltimore-Washington Conference for investing in the Africa University Fund (AUF) apportionment at 100 percent in 2017. Thank you, Baltimore-Washington United Methodists, for your continuing generosity and faithfulness to this ministry.

Institutional Update:

• Africa University Development OfficeAfrica University hosts a stable, focused and vibrant campus community of 1,800 students as well as faculty, and staff from 31 African nations. Amidst a transition in the governance of Zimbabwe, lectures, research, and outreach activities continue uninterrupted.
• A new academic structure is encouraging innovation and enhancing Africa University’s relevance to The United Methodist Church and to sub-Saharan Africa. This includes the launch of the Institute of Theology and Religious Studies which brings together multidisciplinary training and leadership formation opportunities for both clergy and laity.
• Africa University’s insectary and researchers are providing critical data on mosquitos and regional malaria control programs to aid Africa’s efforts to eradicate malaria and other insect-borne diseases.
• The university is also making trailblazing, regional contributions in migrant and refugee protection, child rights, and harnessing intellectual property for development.
• The first 25 years of AU’s ministry have produced more than 8,000 graduates to date.

Africa University ended 2017 affirmed, celebrated, and with its highest level of support from The United Methodist Church to date. United Methodist congregations in the United States invested 96.77 percent of their budget commitment to the AUF. Thirty-five of the 56 annual conferences achieved or exceeded their 100 percent investment in the AUF. Giving to the AUF increased in all five jurisdictions — with the Western Jurisdiction at 100 percent for the first time and the Northeastern Jurisdiction at 100 percent for the third consecutive year.

As Africa University embraces new opportunities for service and impact, gifts for scholarships, academic development, and infrastructure are vitally important. The four-year, $50 million Campaign for Africa University is ongoing, with 76.5 percent of the goal or $38.3 million in cash and pledges already committed. Thank you, Baltimore-Washington Conference, for providing a home for the Campaign Office in Fulton, Maryland, and for giving more than $400,000 to the campaign, designated for the expansion of sports and recreation facilities at the main campus.

Thank you, Baltimore-Washington Conference, for your foundational role in the Africa University story. Thank you for being a part of this incredible year of blessings. Thank you for affirming the power of faithfully sowing, standing, and working together as you journey in ministry with Africa University.

Submitted by:
James H. Salley
Associate Vice Chancellor for Institutional Advancement
Africa University Development Office
Board of Child Care
Last year, we updated you about the early stages of our three-year strategic plan to transform Board of Child Care (BCC) from a care provider to an impact maker. We have had an incredible, transformative year as we focus on our purpose: Enriching communities, one family at a time.
We have focused heavily on organizational alignment — our first strategic goal. Our staff and Board of Directors worked to align policies, become more data driven, and challenged the “why” about our practices and procedures. We are committed to living out our purpose as a trauma-informed organization guided by our core values of safety, integrity, empathy and impact.

What a difference those conversations and efforts have made. BCC is becoming more flexible and nimble as we transform how we deliver services to some of the most vulnerable and underserved populations in the Mid-Atlantic.

Becoming a leader in our communities by bringing change makers together is also part of our strategic plan. We are very proud to report that these meetings have resulted in brand new programs in both West Virginia and in Maryland.

Another example from the past year is that BCC provided a specialized training called Mental Health First Aid in preparation for the annual Ocean City, Maryland, ROCK event. The course helped build participants’ mental health literacy as well as help them identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness or crisis.

We are also pleased to report that our accreditation renewal from the United Methodist Association’s EAGLE (Educational Assessment Guidelines Leading toward Excellence) commission successfully took place in 2017. BCC pursues nationally recognized accreditations to ensure its programs and operations meet and exceed industry best practices.

In addition to accreditation from EAGLE, BCC received two nominations: one for best practice, and one for innovation. The first is for workforce and leadership development in assisting employees with career advancement resulting in employee promotion and retention. The second, given to acknowledge a creative and unique approach to ministries, recognizes the large effort to help staff, youth, and families with their Christmas shopping by allowing clients and families to shop for others. The “Christmas Store” gives dignity to children and their families to engage in the spirit of Christmas giving.

The support of congregations and individuals across the conference remains a cornerstone of BCC’s ability to provide positive family experiences for our program participants such as the innovative Christmas Store. I am thankful to each one of our donors, volunteers and groups for the many ways they engage with us and make these smiles and memories possible.

Thanks to all of you, BCC is making a difference in the lives of countless children, youth and families. We invite and encourage you to engage with us. Get started at boardofchildcare.org.

With immense gratitude,
Laurie Anne Spagnola
President and CEO
Boston University
Dear Colleagues in Ministry:
Greetings from Boston University School of Theology (BUSTH) as we travel together in this journey of discipleship!

BREAKING NEWS:
• Students: Our entering students were the most diverse in our history, creating remarkable opportunities for in-depth exchange and fruitful collaboration.
• Faculty: We welcomed three amazing faculty this year: Rebecca Copeland in Theology (focus on environmental theology); Theodore Hickman-Maynard in Black Church Studies; and Cornell William Brooks as Visiting Professor of Social Ethics, Law, and Justice Movements. Thanks to loyal alums, we also endowed the Harrell Beck Professorship in Hebrew Scripture and installed Kathe Darr as the first Beck Professor.
• Congregations: The Lilly Endowment awarded the Center for Practical Theology $1.5 million to create an innovation hub, which will foster creative vocational reflection in congregations, and a sharing of the congregations’ wisdom.
• Doctor of Ministry: The DMin in Transformational Leadership is soaring with lively student cohorts that are broadly ecumenical, culturally diverse, and global. The model includes intensives, online courses, and faculty mentoring.
• Scholarships: We continue our offer of free tuition to UMC registered candidates for ordained ministry, and we continue to build student scholarships and housing as a central campaign priority. New scholarships include the Dale Andrews Scholarship in Practical Theology and Race, Korean Student scholarship, and the Bishop John H. Adams and Dr. Dolly D. Adams Scholarship for candidates for ordained ministry in the AME, AMEZ, and CME churches.
• Arts Initiatives: Recent exhibits and events include “Symbols and Art of China, Korea, and Japan” and “Bridging Divided Communities through the Arts”

PARTNERING FOR MINISTRY AND TRANSFORMATION: Preparing students for ministry means meaningful partnerships with the local spiritual community.
• Congregational courses: Courses in congregations with church leaders and students learning together.
• Religion and Conflict Transformation Clinic: Internships and workshops that foster justice and reconciliation.
• Travel seminars: Courses engaging local communities on Arizona-Mexican border, Israel and Palestine, India, spiritual life centers, and Serbia and Croatia (with focus on interreligious dialogue).
• Ecumenical partnerships: Continuing close work with UMC, AME and other Wesleyan denominations, while launching robust Communities of Learning with the Episcopal Church and United Church of Christ.
• Partnership with Hebrew College: Joint courses and public events, plus co-sponsoring The Journal of Interreligious Studies. The focus is on enriching theological education with interreligious learning and leadership opportunities.

TAKING ACTION GLOBALLY AND LOCALLY:
• Campus action: Work to improve accessibility and sustainability. BUSTH is the first certified Green School in BU, and is active in the Green Seminary Initiative. It has also been named as one of the “Seminaries that Change the World.”
• Internships in global service and peacemaking: Student-initiated internships for service with communities across the world, and for just peacemaking projects with international organizations.

COMMITMENT TO JUSTICE: Celebrating differences while joining in action.
• Faculty and students have led and participated in service for victims of hurricanes and fires, protests on behalf of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, protests of white supremacist movements, protests and services on behalf of immigrants and DACA young people, and ecumenical and interreligious witnesses for justice in the city of Boston.
• The community (often student-led) has had deep conversations on issues that divide (including theological issues). We seek to foster respectful listening that builds community life and communal action.

OTHER NOTABLE NEWS:
• Celebration of the 40 anniversary of the Anna Howard Shaw Center

As BUSTH looks back on 2017, it celebrates transformational leaders who keep the word of Jesus Christ alive. Their living legacy and perceptive witness gives us hope and courage for the future.

Blessings and gratitude,
Mary Elizabeth Moore, Dean
Candler School of Theology
For more than 100 years, Candler School of Theology at Emory University has prepared real people to make a real difference in the real world. Since our founding in 1914, more than 10,000 students have graduated from Candler, where they have been shaped as thoughtful, principled, and courageous Christian leaders dedicated to transforming the world in the name of Jesus Christ.
One of 13 official seminaries of The United Methodist Church, Candler has been included on a list of “Seminaries that Change the World” for five years running, and was recently named a “Bright Spot in Theological Education” by Auburn Seminary.

Candler is also one of seven graduate professional schools of Emory University, a top-tier research institution offering extensive resources and a demonstrated commitment to service. Our location in Atlanta provides a hands-on learning environment rich with opportunity: The General Board of Global Ministries is headquartered here, as are numerous public health, international development, and social service organizations. Simply put, there is no better place to prepare for ministry that engages our major denominational priorities: developing leaders, starting and growing churches, ministry with the poor, and improving global health.

In order to keep pace with the needs of the church and the world, Candler offers 16 degrees: six single degrees and ten dual degrees pairing theology with bioethics, business, international development, law, public health, or social work. One of our newest degrees is a Doctor of Ministry that is 90 percent online, so students can remain in their places of ministry as they study and immediately apply to their context what they learn in class. Our Teaching Parish program allows eligible United Methodist students to serve as pastors in local churches while they’re enrolled—they earn a salary as they earn course credit and pastoral experience, plus they are mentored by an experienced United Methodist elder.

Candler’s student body continues to reflect the diversity and breadth of the Christian faithful, with an enrollment of 455, reflecting 49 percent women, 35 percent people of color (U.S.), and a median age of 30. Students represent 39 denominations, with half coming from the Methodist family. 82 percent of students are seeking a degree to prepare them as ministry professionals.

Candler has a deep commitment to alleviating student debt and employs a multi-pronged approach to tackle this issue. In 2017-2018, we awarded $5.3 million in Candler scholarships, with 97 percent of MDiv students receiving aid and the average scholarship covering 75 percent of tuition. Plus, our comprehensive “Faith & Finance” program teaches money management skills that serve our students now and will continue to serve them—and the churches they lead—well into the future.

Half of Candler’s faculty are United Methodist and 58% come from traditions within the larger Methodist family. This year, we welcomed fellow United Methodist Helen Jin Kim to the faculty as Assistant Professor of American Religious History, and we sent best wishes along with our colleague Mary Lou Greenwood Boice as she retired after 25 years of remarkable service to Candler.

Candler draws considerable strength and inspiration from its relationship with The United Methodist Church. Our ability to fulfill our mission of educating faithful and creative leaders for the church’s ministries throughout the world depends upon your support, gifts, and prayers. Thank you for the countless ways you advance this vital ministry in the life of our denomination. Visit us in person in Atlanta or online at candler.emory.edu to see firsthand how Candler prepares real people to make a real difference in the real world.

—Jan Love
Mary Lee Hardin Willard Dean and Professor of Christianity and World Politics
Candler School of Theology
Gammon Seminary
Gammon Theological Seminary, located in Atlanta, GA, is the United Methodist constituent member of the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC), a consortium of historically African-American theological schools. Gammon/ITC is a co-educational, professional graduate school of theology. Its faculty personifies vigorous scholarship, rigorous academic discipline, and significant research in the service of the church and other communities in the world. Gammon/ITC is the world’s premier resource for black church scholarship and faith-based solutions to the spiritual and socio-economic challenges confronting the African American community and beyond.
Founded in 1883 by the Methodist Episcopal Church and with assistance from the Freedman’s Aid Society, today Gammon Theological Seminary is one of the 13 theological schools of the United Methodist Church. The faculty and administration of Gammon/ITC create an environment in which critical thinking, investigative reflection, decision making, and responsible action are fostered. Gammon/ITC is a member of the Atlanta University Center Complex, the world’s largest enterprise of African American higher education. It is also a member of The University Center of Georgia and the Atlanta Theological Association. The school is fully accredited by the Association of Theological Schools and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Gammon/ITC offers the following degree programs: the Master of Divinity, the Master of Arts in Christian Education, and the Doctor of Ministry. Admission is open to qualified men and women of the United Methodist Church.

The support of this Annual Conference helps Gammon/ITC students carry on a proud tradition. They are taught to think independently and communicate effectively. They are also challenged to become involved in finding solutions to problems that affect the human condition, and to become active in the community beyond this campus. Additionally, graduates of this institution are encouraged to maintain a lifelong desire for intellectual growth, spiritual development, and the acquisition of skills for the practice of ministry.

Gammon/ITC has had a very exciting and busy year living out its mission, which is to recruit, support and educate pastors and leaders for the United Methodist Church. Gammon Theological Seminary is extremely grateful to this Annual Conference for your support of theological education, and for your commitment to ensuring that God’s church will be served by persons who are called and trained to lead us forward.

Grace and Peace,
Ken J. Walden, Ph.D.
President-Dean
Wesley Theological Seminary
Wesley Theological Seminary, located in Washington, D.C., continues to equip the next generation of Christian leadership for the church and the world. As a United Methodist seminary, we form students to lead innovative ministries while remaining grounded in our biblical and theological traditions.
Whether you are clergy or laity, an alumnus or a prospective student, looking for master’s or doctoral work or continuing education or simply deeper biblical knowledge, Wesley wants to support you in your current and future call to ministry. Here are a few ways Wesley can help you grow in faith, wisdom, and ability.

Expand your leadership skills

Wesley’s internationally respected Lewis Center for Church Leadership is a key resource for cutting-edge church research and disciple-growing strategies for the local church. Under the directorship of the Rev. Dr. F. Douglas Powe, Jr., the Lewis Center’s Leading Ideas e-newsletter, reaching almost 20,000 people in ministry each week, has launched its new podcast – Leading Ideas Talk. Sign up or listen at www.churchleadership.com/

The Institute for Community Engagement at Wesley continues its innovative online Health Minister Certificate Program from Heal the Sick to prepare congregations for public health work in their parishes. Some scholarships are available for this program. Contact Tom Pruski for more information or to register for future certificate classes.

Wesley also offers opportunities for individual study without pursuing a degree. The Certificate in Faith and Public Life explores the foundations of public theology, religious freedom, and civil discourse through graduate courses. For more information, visit www.wesleyseminary.edu/fpli.

A Certificate in Wesleyan Studies is available online via the Wesley Theological Seminary Lay Academy. Topics include United Methodist identity, early church history, Christian ethics, interfaith relations, and the intersection of faith and science. The courses can also be taken for personal education and enrichment. More information can be found at www.beadisciple.com/wesley/.

Take your ministry to the next level

Wesley continues to be a leader in Doctor of Ministry programs, offering practical and spiritually renewing tracks in theological education. Wesley announces an exciting new 2019 Doctor of Ministry track, in partnership with Wesley House in Cambridge, UK: “Winds of the Spirit and Ministries for a Changing World.” Other 2019 tracks will include Church Excellence, Spirituality and Story, a 13^th Global Asian Church track and Public Engagement: Healing Communal Brokenness and Despair. Find out more or apply at www.wesleyseminary.edu/doctorofministry/.

Discover exciting pathways to seminary studies

Wesley understands the struggle of responsibly accepting your call while being concerned about balancing life, family, ministry and student debt. We are here to help make responding to that call possible. Through our partnership with Shenandoah University and our new 3+3 Fast Track B.A./M. Div. program, students enter ministry with less debt after earning their degree in 6 years. Learn more at www.wesleyseminary.edu.

Wesley’s Master of Divinity degree can now be completed via online, weekend, short-term intensive, and weeknight courses in 5 years. This format is designed to be more accessible to those with busy ministry, work, and/or family commitments throughout the region. Check out upcoming flexible course offerings for summer and fall 2018 at http://www.wesleyseminary.edu/admissions/try-a-class-3/

The new African American Church Studies Master of Divinity specialization gives contextual preparation for the unique opportunities and challenges our future leaders may encounter in African American churches, while the Public Theology specialization allows master’s degree students to gain skills for community leadership and advocacy. Wesley continues to offer our 36-hour Master of Arts and a 60-hour Master of Theological Studies to equip those called to ordained deacon ministries or to other ministries beyond the pulpit.

Contact us at (202) 885-8659 or about how Wesley’s degree programs can equip you for your next step in ministry.

Enrich your congregational outreach and explore new dimensions of ministry

Through the Wesley Innovation Hub, Wesley is working with 20 local congregations to design innovative ministries to enrich the religious lives of young adults. Follow the work and connect with resources at www.wesleyseminary.edu/wesley-innovation-hub/. The Wesley Innovation Hub is made possible by a generous grant from the Lilly Endowment.

In a time of polarization, the Center for Public Theology, under the leadership of Distinguished Professor of Public Theology Mike McCurry, continues to equip pastors, seminarians, people of faith, and the media to create spaces for civil dialogue at the intersection of religion and politics. The Center also provides events, such as the Wesleyan Political Theology Project, to help faith leaders lead prophetic, open dialogue in their communities. For more information, visit http://www.wesleyseminary.edu/ice/programs/public-theology/.

The Luce Center for Arts and Religion remains the only seminary-based program uniting arts and theology. The Luce Center offers regular classes and workshops with visiting artists. For information on past and upcoming opportunities visit www.luceartsandreligion.org.

Stay connected

Ready to join in our mission? Wesley provides more than $2 million dollars annually in scholarships to our students thanks to the consistent support of graduates, congregations and friends of the seminary. Find out more about how you can be part of the future of Wesley at www.wesleyseminary.edu/support/.

We invite you to stay in touch through the year and learn more of the latest developments at Wesley by signing up for our monthly electronic newsletter, eCalling, at www.wesleyseminary.edu/ecalling.

We look forward to continuing to serve you and your community as we seek to live into God’s dream together. Blessings to you for a fruitful and faithful Annual Conference.

--The Rev. Dr. David McAllister-Wilson, President

Journal Reports 2018

Discipleship Ministries Report | Stewardship Reports | Leadership Reports | Institutional Reports

Discipleship Ministries Report

Leader Development

Board of Laity

Office of Leadership Development

New Faith Expressions

Office of Congregational Development

Young People's Ministry

Conference Council on Youth Ministry

Young Adult Council

Retreat and Camping Ministries

Abundant Health (Formerly Board of Global Ministries)

Missionaries Report

Advocacy in Action

Commission on Disability Concerns

Committee on Religion and Race

DC-Maryland Justice for Our Neighbors

Other

Commission on Archives and History / Historical Society / Strawbridge Shrine

Deaf Ministries

Global Partnerships (Eurasia, Puerto Rico, Zimbabwe)

Hispanic Latino Ministries

United Methodist Men

United Methodist Women

Stewardship Reports

Council on Finance and Administration

2019 Proposed Narrative Budget

2019 Proposed Budget (PDF)

Board of Pensions

Board of Trustees

MidAtlantic Foundation

Leadership Reports

Discipleship Council

Board of Ordained Ministry

Rules Committee

Commission on Communications

Nominations

Institutional Reports

Africa University

Board of Child Care

Boston University

Candler School of Theology

Gammon Seminary

Wesley Theological Seminary