First United Methodist Church

Annual Charge Conference

October 29, 2009

Devotions: District Superintendent, Ray Baker, offered thoughts from John, Chapter 24, Verse4

"Going back to what's comfortable".

Call to Order: The meeting was called to order at 7:06 p.m. by Pastor Baker.

Action Items:

a. Certification/Recertification of Lay Speakers – Kevin Sailer was unanimously approved for recertification as a lay leader. Everyone was reminded that there are classes available within the conference for anyone interested in becoming a lay leader.

b. Recommendation/recertification of candidates for ordained ministry – none

c. Membership Audit – The intent of this item is to determine which members of the church wish to continue as members or have their membership transferred/removed. The six members listed in the Charge Conference book who have received their second letter,without response, were removed.

d. Budget – There will be a 2.5% increase in budget over last year. The Parish Visitor shows a 46.5% increase due to the increased number of hours he works to help cover some of the former Parish Nurse's duties. The 9% increase in apportionments is due to the fact that we have been maintaining a very "tight" membership list over the years, removing those who are not active. We are now "catching up" on the number to remove, so our apportionments will be reflected as a higher percentage as we grow. The budget was approved as proposed.

e. Clergy compensation package - Increases in Sections I and V reflect increases for inflation and benefits earned. This salary/pension package was approved. The accountable reimbursment policy and housing allowance package was also approved.

(see attachments)

f. Election of Ad Team Members – Ballots were distributed. Pastor Kermit introduced nominees already present on the ballot: Lori Wavrin, Deb Larson, Dave Larson and Jeff Schneider. A call for further nominations was made. There was unanimous acclamation for those on the ballot.

g. Name Change for FUMC – Pastor Kermit introduced and explained the reason for the proposed name change. The change was unanimously passed.

Pastor Kermit offered a verbal report in the absence of a written pastor report.

"Lesson": Supt. Baker addressed “How is your congregation showing its vitality (and viability)” Pastor Baker told of his trip to the orient where he personally witnessed one of the largest United Methodist congregations in the world. He described the multifaceted campus and its worship and the many programs to help people grow spiritually. Their variety meets the many varied needs of the community. They have outreach teams and music ministry. He challenged the members present to “cast their net” and look at what activities we provide for the various age groups. He helped those present to look at how we develop/promote intentional discipleship.

Appointment Process: Pastor Baker explained how pastors and superintendents are appointed. There are possible regional changes coming up and possibly the reduction of a superintendent. Further information will come in the future.

Closing Prayer: Pastor Kermit offered the closing prayer.

Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 10:45 p.m.