Photo by Ken Wenger Brethren founder Alexander Mack Sr. (affectionately known as "A-Mack" since his appearance at National Youth Conference) shows off his Passport to Wellness t-shirt to wellness staff Mary Lou Garrison.

Photo by Regina Roberts The children receive a visit from David Radcliff, of the New Community Project.

Photo by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford Joan Brown Campbell, former general secretary of the National Council of Churches and director of the Religion Department of the Chatauqua Institute, speaks at the "Messenger" dinner.

Photo by Jesse Reid Would you like cherries with that?

Quote of the Day
"Jesus never intended the church to fail.... I don’t believe declining membership is a part of his mission plan.”

--Moderator Belita Mitchell, preaching for Sunday morning worship

A Bit About Cleveland
"1809--George Peake arrived in what is now Lakewood/Rocky River, Ohio, as the area's first African-American settler.”

--From the website of the Convention and Visitors Bureau of Greater Cleveland, www.travelcleveland.com.

Overview of the Day
Sunday morning opened with a Clergy Women’s Breakfast, a spiritual formation session, and Bible study in the main auditorium. Children’s and youth activities started early as well.

An organ recital created an atmosphere for worship, which was led by preacher and Annual Conference moderator Belita Mitchell, and worship leader and moderator-elect Jim Beckwith.

Over lunch, mutual help groups met and colleges held alumni luncheons. The Brethren Revival Fellowship held its annual prayer and fasting session. Insight sessions addressed issues such as “Navigating the Health Care System” and “Counter-Recruitment: Responding to Military Recruitment in Our Communities.”

Two business sessions were held, in the afternoon and evening.

Dinnertime featured the Messenger dinner, mutual help groups, a concert by the East Chippewa Vocal Band, and a New Church Planting Reception. Late evening activities included Bible studies, insight sessions on topics such as “Heifer Project’s Seagoing Cowboys” and “Peer Coaching for Pastors,” young adult and single adult activities, and an ice cream social.

A new feature of Conference began this evening, an intercultural Worship Music Celebration following the evening business session.

[Business | Feature | Photo | Worship]