In some ways, Annual Conference is no day at the beach. In other ways, Annual Conference is better than a day at the beach.

Crowds of people will line a beach yet never talk to the person next to them. At Annual Conference, the crowds of people are ready to talk and share stories of faith that are both uplifting and encouraging.

Moderator Emily Mumma visits with
Moderator-Elect Phill Carlos Archbold
before the start of afternoon business.

At the beach, you can swim, build sand castles, and brush the sand off of your beach towel. At Annual Conference, there are literally hundreds of things to do, such as visit dozens of booths, attend many insight sessions and Bible studies, and visit local points of interest with various groups. Annual Conference is the place to make and renew friendships.

The life of a delegate makes Annual Conference even more

Harriet Finney answers Tara Hornbacker's
500 casserole question "Which of the following
is not one of the Gospels?" in the Ministry
Advisory Committee's report, "Who Wants to Be a Minister?".

eventful. A delegate does much more than simply sit in business sessions. There are hearings to attend, speeches to consider, issues to evaluate, votes to cast, and ice cream to eat.

The main task of any delegate is to seek the mind of Christ on the various items of business. Delegates must listen to varying viewpoints and determine how our church can follow Jesus Christ best in the issue being discussed. This is difficult work, as delegates must consider all sides, then prayerfully make a decision when it comes time to vote.

A choir of children performed for
worship Tuesday evening.

Since we are called to have in mind the things of Christ, a delegate must come to Annual Conference ready to listen for the voice of God. Delegates will often return home very tired, and may sometimes need a vacation to rest up from Annual Conference, because Annual Conference is no day at the beach. However, when your delegates come home from Annual Conference, they won't have to worry about cleaning beach sand from their suitcases.-- KEITH E. HOLLENBERG