Welcome to the Washington Region Blog! In an effort to reduce the number of emails sent from the region, the blog will be updated on a weekly basis. You will receive an email reminder every week to come and check out the blog.



Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Charge Conference Follow-Up

Don’t forget to go back into Gateway and submit any saved reports that need to be submitted. Most importantly, the clergy compensation report needs to be submitted no later than one week after your charge conference.






CHARGE CONFERENCE UPDATE – This will be posted at the top of the blog each week until Charge Conference Season is over. Please use the following links to access the Charge Conference Information you may need.


For charge conference schedules which list the dates, times and locations, please go to: http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/WashRegionChgConf2011.pdf.


For Charge Conference Sample Forms, please go to: http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/chargeconferencemain and scroll down to the appropriate section.


For information on Clergy Housing and Compensation, please go to: http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/chargeconferencemain and scroll down to additional resources.


For information about how to update your committee listings, please go to: http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/2011GatewayManual.pdf.

For information about Call to Action Numerical Goals, please go to:
http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/Call%20to%20Action%20Numerical%20Goals%20Training%20Guide.pdf.


For information about the charge conference agenda, please go to: http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/2011%20charge%20conference%20agenda.pdf.




Instructions for 2011 Charge Conferences
The theme for the 2011 Charge Conferences is GO DEEP! Here are some key things to you will need to know to have a successful Charge Conference.


NOW
* Host churches will provide beverages and paper products. All other churches are asked to bring finger foods (desserts or appetizer-type items).

* The goal of having charge conferences in clusters is to share with and learn from neighboring churches. The sharing time during worship is crucial to this process, and it depends on your preparation for that time. Therefore, Please ask ONE lay person from your church to be prepared to answer the following question – and to speak for no more than 2 minutes:


Share a witness of how your small group did one of these things:
• Deepened your faith;
• Helped you to connect in a meaningful way with another person; and/or,
• Showed you something new/unexpected about God.


* Review the agenda. http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/2011%20charge%20conference%20agenda.pdf

* Share the date, time and location of the charge conference with your church council. To view the charge conference schedule, go to http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/WashRegionChgConf2011.pdf. Each church is expected to attend worship and charge conference. Please be sure to view the schedule details on the day of your charge conference to determine if your charge conference is before or after worship.

* Be sure that the appropriate team in your church is ready to handle the assigned reports. Pastors – please work with your church administrators to review the Committee Listing in Gateway and ensure that it is correct and up-to-date. For information on how to update the Committee Listing, go to http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/2011GatewayManual.pdf.

* Use sample reports to collect charge conference information. Sample reports can be found at http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/chargeconferencemain. We suggest that you document the answers to the reports in a Word document and then when you are ready to complete the report in Gateway, use the Word document to cut from and paste directly into the Gateway form.

* Be sure that all candidates (ordained ministry, lay speaking, CLM) to be recertified (or voted on in any way) are present at the charge conference. If they are not present, the will not be eligible to be voted on. If there is a compelling reason that a candidate cannot attend the charge conference, prior permission must be obtained from the guide or district superintendent.


ONE WEEK PRIOR TO CHARGE CONFERENCE
* All reports are to be completed and ready for your guides to review in Gateway one week prior to your charge conference. If there is an omission and forms are incomplete, you will be contacted by your guide.


* For more information about completing the reports, please see the training documents at http://www.bwcumc.org/resources/training.


FINAL PREP FOR CHARGE CONFERENCE
* Only enter whole digits on Gateway forms. Do not use decimals, percent signs or dollar signs.


* Print the following documents for all attendees at charge conference so they can see what they are voting on. Please be sure they are in the order as it appears on the agenda:

o Pastor’s Report
o Call to Action Numerical Goals
o 2012 Congregational Goals
o Ministry to Disciples
o Clergy Compensation Report
o Finance Committee Report
o Lay Leadership Development Form


* Prepare a folder to give to your guide with all of the forms listed above. Be sure that this folder is in the order of the agenda.


* Prepare ballots for all categories of lay speakers, with names, candidates for recertification as CLM’s and recommendations of ministerial candidates.


Please note: It is the responsibility of the local church to maintain the files of the Laity Sexual Misconduct Questionnaire and to verify lay speaker reports. Please do not give these forms to your guide.


ONE WEEK AFTER CHARGE CONFERENCE
* Be that sure that the online clergy compensation report is correct (accurate as to what was voted on at charge conference) and SUBMIT.


* Record votes for lay speakers, CLM’s and ministerial candidates and SUBMIT.


* Send minutes to washregion@bwcumc.org within two weeks of charge conference.


* Remember to update any new officers and end terms of retiring officers in Gateway under the Committee Listings.






Appointment and Evaluations Forms are Live!
The Appointment and Evaluation forms are ready for use.


• Go to www.bwcumc.org/gateway/appteval


• 2011 Appointment Advisory form for Clergy in Local Congregations
o A small change was made to gather additional information if Clergy are working outside the church. See sample link below to view changes (it is near the bottom of the form)
http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/evaluation_process/sample_appointment_advisory_clergy_churches.htm




• 2012 Pastoral Goals (Call to Action)
o A new survey was created to capture up to five goals that are in keeping with Call to Action initiatives. Sample link below.
http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/evaluation_process/PastoralGoals.htm





ERT Class at Fairhaven on October 22 Postponed!
The ERT class scheduled for October 22, 2011 at Fairhaven United Methodist Church has been postponed. A new date will be forthcoming.







Youth Financial Literacy Program
Market USA Federal Credit Union is hosting a Youth Financial Literacy Program at the Conference Mission Center on Tuesday, October 25, 2011 at 7 p.m. Topics of discussion will be budgeting, credit management and identity theft. RSVP to memberservices@marketusafcu.com.








Hosting Visiting Churches
The Conference Mission Center receives a number of calls each year asking if we know of churches in the DC area that are willing to host churches visiting from outside the area - usually with youth groups or those working on mission projects. Requirements include churches that have showers and can provide overnight accommodations. If you have a church that can host, please email pmullay@bwcumc.org.








Visioning 2020 – Listening Days
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ:


We invite the laity and clergy of the Baltimore-Washington Conference to help create the future our Conference’s future by attending one of the twelve listening/town hall meetings that will be held the end of October and November.


In 2005 we had the four days of “great discernment” with our bishop and conference leadership to set goals and plans through 2012. These four days shaped the direction and goals for our Conference. The Discipleship Adventure reflected the deep desire in our conference for vital Acts 2 congregations. Our Conference Vision “to become more like Christ” and our Mission “to call, equip, send and support disciple-making leaders to grow Acts 2 congregations for the transformation of the world” emerged from those listening sessions. The Big Holy Audacious Goal to have 600 Acts 2 congregations by the end of 2012 was a direct outcome of those conversations and demonstrated a trust in God and a commitment to measure our progress to end the trend of decline. Four hundred and eight (408) of our congregations so far became Acts 2 congregations by the end of 2010. Progress has been made in each of our districts in the face of a multitude of challenges. We already accomplished six of our eight 2012 goals. We want that to continue the strong progress we made toward our goals.


Today as we plan for our future, we build on our past and the beckoning Call to Action from our bishops and denominational leadership. We will also be informed by and build on the planning and goal setting that each of our congregations are presently engaged in. Building on the Discipleship Adventure, The Call to Action and your ministry plans are the pathway for a fruitful future.


The BWC Discipleship Council began discussing the need and process for a 2020 Vision at the beginning of 2011. The Discipleship Council wants both lay and clergy input from across the Conference.


The following days and locations are set aside for times of prayer, conversation and listening to where God is calling us. We need your input and participation. We also need you to register prior to the event so that we can prepare for your participation. Please register online by using one of the following links. You may attend an event in any region. The registration deadline is one week prior to each event.




Western Region: October 27, Thursday
1. 9-11 am, Centre Street UMC, Cumberland, MD
2. 2-4 pm, Asbury UMC, Shepherdstown WVA
3. 7-9 pm, Middletown UMC, Frederick, MD


http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/Event-Registration/plug-in?url=gateway.bwcumc.org/bwcssa/bwc_evtssa.evtstart?p_event_id=1911



Annapolis/Southern Region: November 7, Monday
1. 9-11 am, Severna Park UMC, Severna Park, MD
2. 2-4 pm, Trinity UMC, Prince Frederick, MD
3. 7-9 pm, St. Paul UMC, Oxon Hill, MD


http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/Event-Registration/plug-in?url=gateway.bwcumc.org/bwcssa/bwc_evtssa.evtstart?p_event_id=1912




Washington Region: November 15, Tuesday
1. 9-11 am, Damascus UMC, 9700 New Church Street, Damascus, MD
2. 2-4 pm, Good Hope Union, 14680 Good Hope Road, Silver Spring, MD
3. 7-9 pm, Jones Memorial UMC, 4625 G Street, SE Washington, DC


http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/Event-Registration/plug-in?url=gateway.bwcumc.org/bwcssa/bwc_evtssa.evtstart?p_event_id=1914






Baltimore Region: December 8, Thursday
1. 9-11 am, Ames UMC, Bel Air, MD
2. 2-4 pm, Epworth Chapel, Baltimore, MD
3. 7-9 pm, Towson UMC


http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/Event-Registration/plug-in?url=gateway.bwcumc.org/bwcssa/bwc_evtssa.evtstart?p_event_id=1913


Should you require assistance registering please contact your Regional Administrator or Nancy McCarthy, Administrator, Connectional Ministries at nmccarthy@bwcumc.org, or by calling (410) 309-3400.


We look forward to seeing you at one of your regional meetings. Your participation is important as we renew our commitment to growing vital congregations. You may forward this email to church members and post in your weekly bulletin.


In Christ,


John R. Schol, Bishop 
Cynthia Taylor, Chairperson, Discipleship Council
A. David Argo, Director of Connectional Ministries
 





Friday, October 14, 2011



CHARGE CONFERENCE UPDATE – This will be posted at the top of the blog each week until Charge Conference Season is over.
Please use the following links to access the Charge Conference Information you may need.


For charge conference schedules which list the dates, times and locations, please go to: http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/WashRegionChgConf2011.pdf.




For Charge Conference Sample Forms, please go to: http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/chargeconferencemain and scroll down to the appropriate section.




For information on Clergy Housing and Compensation, please go to: http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/chargeconferencemain and scroll down to additional resources.




For information about how to update your committee listings, please go to: http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/2011GatewayManual.pdf.




For information about Call to Action Numerical Goals, please go to:
http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/Call%20to%20Action%20Numerical%20Goals%20Training%20Guide.pdf.




For information about the charge conference agenda, please go to: http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/2011%20charge%20conference%20agenda.pdf.






Instructions for 2011 Charge Conferences
The theme for the 2011 Charge Conferences is GO DEEP!

Here are some key things to you will need to know to have a successful Charge Conference.


NOW


* Host churches will provide beverages and paper products. All other churches are asked to bring finger foods (desserts or appetizer-type items).


* The goal of having charge conferences in clusters is to share with and learn from neighboring churches. The sharing time during worship is crucial to this process, and it depends on your preparation for that time. Therefore, Please ask ONE lay person from your church to be prepared to answer the following question – and to speak for no more than 2 minutes:


Share a witness of how your small group did one of these things:


• Deepened your faith;


• Helped you to connect in a meaningful way with another person; and/or,


• Showed you something new/unexpected about God.


* Review the agenda. http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/2011%20charge%20conference%20agenda.pdf.


*  Share the date, time and location of the charge conference with your church council. To view the charge conference schedule, go to http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/WashRegionChgConf2011.pdf. Each church is expected to attend worship and charge conference. Please be sure to view the schedule details on the day of your charge conference to determine if your charge conference is before or after worship.

* Be sure that the appropriate team in your church is ready to handle the assigned reports. Pastors – please work with your church administrators to review the Committee Listing in Gateway and ensure that it is correct and up-to-date. For information on how to update the Committee Listing, go to http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/2011GatewayManual.pdf.


* Use sample reports to collect charge conference information. Sample reports can be found at http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/chargeconferencemain. We suggest that you document the answers to the reports in a Word document and then when you are ready to complete the report in Gateway, use the Word document to cut from and paste directly into the Gateway form.

* Be sure that all candidates (ordained ministry, lay speaking, CLM) to be recertified (or voted on in any way) are present at the charge conference. If they are not present, the will not be eligible to be voted on. If there is a compelling reason that a candidate cannot attend the charge conference, prior permission must be obtained from the guide or district superintendent.



ONE WEEK PRIOR TO CHARGE CONFERENCE

* All reports are to be completed and ready for your guides to review in Gateway one week prior to your charge conference. If there is an omission and forms are incomplete, you will be contacted by your guide.


* For more information about completing the reports, please see the training documents at http://www.bwcumc.org/resources/training.




FINAL PREP FOR CHARGE CONFERENCE
* Only enter whole digits on Gateway forms. Do not use decimals, percent signs or dollar signs.


* Print the following documents for all attendees at charge conference so they can see what they are voting on. Please be sure they are in the order as it appears on the agenda:


o Pastor’s Report
o Call to Action Numerical Goals
o 2012 Congregational Goals
o Ministry to Disciples
o Clergy Compensation Report
o Finance Committee Report
o Lay Leadership Development Form


* Prepare a folder to give to your guide with all of the forms listed above. Be sure that this folder is in the order of the agenda.


* Prepare ballots for all categories of lay speakers, with names, candidates for recertification as CLM’s and recommendations of ministerial candidates.


Please note: It is the responsibility of the local church to maintain the files of the Laity Sexual Misconduct Questionnaire and to verify lay speaker reports. Please do not give these forms to your guide.


ONE WEEK AFTER CHARGE CONFERENCE
* Be that sure that the online clergy compensation report is correct (accurate as to what was voted on at charge conference) and SUBMIT.


* Record votes for lay speakers, CLM’s and ministerial candidates and SUBMIT.


* Send minutes to washregion@bwcumc.org within two weeks of charge conference.


* Remember to update any new officers and end terms of retiring officers in Gateway under the Committee Listings.




CLM Report at Charge Conference – From Sandra King-Shaw


As you are completing your CLM Report to the Charge Conference, we want you to know the following:


Certified Lay Minister and Certified Lay Speaker are two different roles in the United Methodist Church, and they are to be accounted for separately.


Here are the answers to some questions you may have:


1. The location of original certification is the site where you met with the DCOM. The date of original certification will be the date you received your letter informing you that you were being recommended for certification by DCOM.


2. Recertification: The only course for recertification for this year is the course based upon the book Five Practices for Fruitful Congregations. This means the classes taught spring and late summer 2011. Please remember that all the work must have been completed successfully -- including the paper that was to be sent to the instructor at the end of the session. Any student who did not submit the paper did not satisfy the training requirement.


The place where the course was held refers to the actual site (the name of the church or the Mission Center) where the course was taught.


I hope all this is helpful. Please do not hesitate to email or call me if I can help.


Peace,


Sandra M. King-Shaw
Conference Director of Certified Lay Ministry
sandraumc@verizon.net






Visioning 2020 – Listening Days
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ:


We invite the laity and clergy of the Baltimore-Washington Conference to help create the future our Conference’s future by attending one of the twelve listening/town hall meetings that will be held the end of October and November.


In 2005 we had the four days of “great discernment” with our bishop and conference leadership to set goals and plans through 2012. These four days shaped the direction and goals for our Conference. The Discipleship Adventure reflected the deep desire in our conference for vital Acts 2 congregations. Our Conference Vision “to become more like Christ” and our Mission “to call, equip, send and support disciple-making leaders to grow Acts 2 congregations for the transformation of the world” emerged from those listening sessions. The Big Holy Audacious Goal to have 600 Acts 2 congregations by the end of 2012 was a direct outcome of those conversations and demonstrated a trust in God and a commitment to measure our progress to end the trend of decline. Four hundred and eight (408) of our congregations so far became Acts 2 congregations by the end of 2010. Progress has been made in each of our districts in the face of a multitude of challenges. We already accomplished six of our eight 2012 goals. We want that to continue the strong progress we made toward our goals.


Today as we plan for our future, we build on our past and the beckoning Call to Action from our bishops and denominational leadership. We will also be informed by and build on the planning and goal setting that each of our congregations are presently engaged in. Building on the Discipleship Adventure, The Call to Action and your ministry plans are the pathway for a fruitful future.


The BWC Discipleship Council began discussing the need and process for a 2020 Vision at the beginning of 2011. The Discipleship Council wants both lay and clergy input from across the Conference.


The following days and locations are set aside for times of prayer, conversation and listening to where God is calling us. We need your input and participation. We also need you to register prior to the event so that we can prepare for your participation. Please register online by using one of the following links. You may attend an event in any region. The registration deadline is one week prior to each event.


Western Region: October 27, Thursday


1. 9-11 am, Centre Street UMC, Cumberland, MD
2. 2-4 pm, Asbury UMC, Shepherdstown WVA
3. 7-9 pm, Middletown UMC, Frederick, MD




Western Region. To select one of the locations click here:
http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/Event-Registration/plug-in?url=gateway.bwcumc.org/bwcssa/bwc_evtssa.evtstart?p_event_id=1911




Annapolis/Southern Region: November 7, Monday
1. 9-11 am, Severna Park UMC, Severna Park, MD
2. 2-4 pm, Trinity UMC, Prince Frederick, MD
3. 7-9 pm, St. Paul UMC, Oxon Hill, MD


Annapolis/Southern Region. To select one of the locations click here:
http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/Event-Registration/plug-in?url=gateway.bwcumc.org/bwcssa/bwc_evtssa.evtstart?p_event_id=1912


Washington Region: November 15, Tuesday
1. 9-11 am, Damascus UMC, 9700 New Church Street, Damascus, MD
2. 2-4 pm, Good Hope Union, 14680 Good Hope Road, Silver Spring, MD
3. 7-9 pm, Jones Memorial UMC, 4625 G Street, SE Washington, DC




Washington Region. To select one of the locations click here:
http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/Event-Registration/plug-in?url=gateway.bwcumc.org/bwcssa/bwc_evtssa.evtstart?p_event_id=1914




Baltimore Region: December 8, Thursday
1. 9-11 am, Ames UMC, Bel Air, MD
2. 2-4 pm, Epworth Chapel, Baltimore, MD
3. 7-9 pm, Towson UMC




Baltimore Region. To select one of the locations click here:
http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/Event-Registration/plug-in?url=gateway.bwcumc.org/bwcssa/bwc_evtssa.evtstart?p_event_id=1913




Should you require assistance registering please contact your Regional Administrator or Nancy McCarthy, Administrator, Connectional Ministries at nmccarthy@bwcumc.org, or by calling (410) 309-3400.




We look forward to seeing you at one of your regional meetings. Your participation is important as we renew our commitment to growing vital congregations. You may forward this email to church members and post in your weekly bulletin.


In Christ,


John R. Schol, Bishop
Cynthia Taylor, Discipleship Chairperson
A. David Argo, Council Director of Correctional Ministries



Sharp Street United Methodist Church Youth Named Runner-up in Outstanding Youth Achievement Awards
From the Baltimore-Washington Conference of the United Methodist Men Congratulations to the Man of Year Award Winners:


Rodger Findiesen (Annapolis District) and John Collins (Washington East District)


Youth of the Year Winners:
Key-Ayra Scott (Annapolis District) and Aaron Collins (Washington East District)


Runner-up Youth winners of the Outstanding Youth Achievement Awards:


Charles Jones (Central Maryland District) and Kenneth Hill (Frederick District).




The message by Rev. Hall was truly inspirational as was the praise music from the two groups from Central Maryland and Greater Washington Districts. And of course, the humor and enthusiasm of our two outstanding emcees Johnnie Walker and Bill Weller will never be forgotten. A special thanks to Revs. Hall, Shockley and DeFord in concluding the program with the serving of communion to the men and youth and to Bishop Schol for commencing our event with Change the World Mission. God truly blessed each and every one of us. On behalf of the Baltimore-Washington Conference United Methodist Men, our thanks to each of you for your support and participation.


Link to the program that honored the Conference Man of the Year and Youth of the Year winners: http://www.bwcumm.org/BWCUMM2/Program/Default.html or go to http://www.bwcumm.org/.








Assistant Director Position Available at Glen Mar UMC
General:
The Glen Mar mission is to praise God, to make disciples, and to serve the world. Staff members are leaders called to be examples to the rest of the church and are held to higher standards. Staff members model the values of constructive, positive relationships, caring and courtesy for all persons, and humility as servant leaders. Staff sets the tone and pace and has a significant role in shaping the heart and character of the entire congregation. It is vital that we walk the path together by actively encouraging wholeness in personal, physical, emotional and spiritual health for each. Spiritually healthy leaders will produce a spiritually healthy church. To achieve these goals staff members are expected to pursue a disciplined lifestyle that is demonstrated by positive character and behavior, expectation and evidence of belief that God is alive and acts in today’s world, and considered actions that conform to denominational standards of practice.


Definition:
The Assistant Director of Glen Mar Early Learning Center serves in a supportive leadership position to provide daily supervision and management of the center. At a general level, this means that this individual is delegated responsibility for the staff and students, the day-to-day operations and the implementation of key initiatives. The Assistant Director interfaces with Early Learning Center staff, parents and children, and is responsible for supporting the priorities of the Director for the Center. The specific duties of the role are shaped to support vision, leadership and direction for the ELC in alignment with goals and objectives of the church, as set forth by the Board of Directors. It is essential that the ELC Assistant Director have a strong trust-based relationship with the Director and Board members that result in a healthy working partnership that continues to provide a high quality program for children and their families.


Duties and Responsibilities:
Job Specifications


Assume the responsibilities of the ELC Director in the Director’s absence.
Provide managerial leadership and support for the Glen Mar ELC
Perform duties, as assigned, to a satisfactory level
Support the mission of Glen Mar ELC & align programs with the mission
Keep the Glen Mar ELC in good, operating order
Maintain a safe and orderly environment
Follow policies and procedures as outlined in Employee Manual
Meets and Reports to Center Director regularly and ELC Board of Directors, as requested
Maintain credentials to meet current requirements for Assistant Director
Communicate regularly with ELC staff & parents
Support planning of monthly Chapel, in collaboration with Director
Support Staff Handbook policies
Support Parent Handbook
Participate in Emergency Preparedness Activities
Support staff training and drills for the Emergency Preparedness Plan
Receive Enrollment & Registrations as required
Contribute to process of developing & implementing annual budget for ELC
Respond to BOD directives on enrollment & registrations
Implement Yearly Plan for curriculum
Provide direct supervision and annual evaluation of ELC staff, as assigned
Monitor lesson plans to ensure teachers are prepared & curriculum implemented
Attend monthly staff meetings
Participate in Professional Development for staff
Review organization of classrooms
Prepare and publicize monthly snack menu
Purchase snack items
Maintain inventory of supplies and materials for center
Maintain Student Records with controls on personally identifiable info
Communication with staff and families
Implement Policies and Procedures in collaboration with Director
Enforce, uphold, and manage procedures equitably
Maintain furniture and fixtures in working order
Report any building issues to Center Director
Support operation of center with attention to fiscal controls, good management, and auditability of records
Other duties as assigned




Knowledge, skill, and ability:
Minimum Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education is preferred. Appropriate combinations of education, experience, and/or training will be considered.
Infant/Toddler certification.
Minimum of two-years experience in a Child Care Center.
Resolves problems and uses judgment to know when to refer decisions to Director.
Positive and cooperative attitude, shown in manner of speaking to others, word choices and actions.
Responds effectively to verbal and written instructions. Skills in listening, speaking, and writing sufficient to maintain records, plan effectively, present reports and communicate ideas effectively.
Knowledge and understanding of licensing regulations and the ability to maintain all aspects of the center to comply with licensing standards.

Special Requirements:
Computer competence in Microsoft Word, Publisher, Excel, Internet, and social media.
Honesty, good communication skills and strength of personal character.
Keeps good boundaries individually and among staff, maintains confidentiality, and uses information properly.


Reporting:
The Assistant Director will report directly to the Center Director and will meet regularly with the Center Director and upon request with the ELC Board of Directors. Staff Parish Relations Committee oversees all of the staff at Glen Mar United Methodist Church. The Assistant Director develops supportive working relationships with staff and parents. Provides leadership and necessary management in conformance with church policies and practice.


Please send inquiries to Mary Ka Khanahan at MaryKa.Kanahan@glenmarumc.org.










Friday, October 7, 2011

CHARGE CONFERENCE UPDATE – This will be posted at the top of the blog each week until Charge Conference Season is over.

Please use the following links to access the Charge Conference Information you may need.
For charge conference schedules which list the dates, times and locations, please go to: http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/WashRegionChgConf2011.pdf.

For Charge Conference Sample Forms, please go to: http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/chargeconferencemain and scroll down to the appropriate section.

For information on Clergy Housing and Compensation, please go to: http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/chargeconferencemain and scroll down to additional resources.

For information about how to update your committee listings, please go to: http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/2011GatewayManual.pdf.

For information about Call to Action Numerical Goals, please go to:
http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/Call%20to%20Action%20Numerical%20Goals%20Training%20Guide.pdf.

For information about the charge conference agenda, please go to: http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/2011%20charge%20conference%20agenda.pdf.


Instructions for 2011 Charge Conferences
The theme for the 2011 Charge Conferences is GO DEEP!

Here are some key things to you will need to know to have a successful Charge Conference.

NOW
* Host churches will provide beverages and paper products. All other churches are asked to bring finger foods (desserts or appetizer-type items).
* The goal of having charge conferences in clusters is to share with and learn from neighboring churches. The sharing time during worship is crucial to this process, and it depends on your preparation for that time. Therefore, Please ask ONE lay person from your church to be prepared to answer the following question – and to speak for no more than 2 minutes:

Share a witness of how your small group did one of these things:
• Deepened your faith;
• Helped you to connect in a meaningful way with another person; and/or,
• Showed you something new/unexpected about God.

* Review the agenda. http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/2011%20charge%20conference%20agenda.pdf.
* Share the date, time and location of the charge conference with your church council. To view the charge conference schedule, go to http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/WashRegionChgConf2011.pdf. Each church is expected to attend worship and charge conference. Please be sure to view the schedule details on the day of your charge conference to determine if your charge conference is before or after worship.
* Be sure that the appropriate team in your church is ready to handle the assigned reports. Pastors – please work with your church administrators to review the Committee Listing in Gateway and ensure that it is correct and up-to-date. For information on how to update the Committee Listing, go to http://www.bwcumc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/2011GatewayManual.pdf.
* Use sample reports to collect charge conference information. Sample reports can be found at http://www.bwcumc.org/gateway/chargeconferencemain. We suggest that you document the answers to the reports in a Word document and then when you are ready to complete the report in Gateway, use the Word document to cut from and paste directly into the Gateway form.
* Be sure that all candidates (ordained ministry, lay speaking, CLM) to be recertified (or voted on in any way) are present at the charge conference. If they are not present, the will not be eligible to be voted on. If there is a compelling reason that a candidate cannot attend the charge conference, prior permission must be obtained from the guide or district superintendent.

ONE WEEK PRIOR TO CHARGE CONFERENCE
* All reports are to be completed and ready for your guides to review in Gateway one week prior to your charge conference. If there is an omission and forms are incomplete, you will be contacted by your guide.
* For more information about completing the reports, please see the training documents at http://www.bwcumc.org/resources/training.
* If your charge conference is being held on the weekend of October 8 and 9, please see be sure to bring non-perishable food items and toiletries for collection at the host churches for Change The World Mission Weekend. More details about the event can be found at http://www.bwcumc.org/events/changetheworld.

FINAL PREP FOR CHARGE CONFERENCE
* Only enter whole digits on Gateway forms. Do not use decimals, percent signs or dollar signs.
* Print the following documents for all attendees at charge conference so they can see what they are voting on. Please be sure they are in the order as it appears on the agenda:
o Pastor’s Report
o Call to Action Numerical Goals
o 2012 Congregational Goals
o Ministry to Disciples
o Clergy Compensation Report
o Finance Committee Report
o Lay Leadership Development Form

* Prepare a folder to give to your guide with all of the forms listed above. Be sure that this folder is in the order of the agenda.
* Prepare ballots for all categories of lay speakers, with names, candidates for recertification as CLM’s and recommendations of ministerial candidates.

Please note: It is the responsibility of the local church to maintain the files of the Laity Sexual Misconduct Questionnaire and to verify lay speaker reports. Please do not give these forms to your guide.

ONE WEEK AFTER CHARGE CONFERENCE
* Be that sure that the online clergy compensation report is correct (accurate as to what was voted on at charge conference) and SUBMIT.
* Record votes for lay speakers, CLM’s and ministerial candidates and SUBMIT.
* Send minutes to washregion@bwcumc.org within two weeks of charge conference.
* Remember to update any new officers and end terms of retiring officers in Gateway under the Committee Listings.



CLM Report at Charge Conference – From Sandra King-Shaw
As you are completing your CLM Report to the Charge Conference, we want you to know the following:
Certified Lay Minister and Certified Lay Speaker are two different roles in the United Methodist Church, and they are to be accounted for separately.

Here are the answers to some questions you may have:
1. The location of original certification is the site where you met with the DCOM. The date of original certification will be the date you received your letter informing you that you were being recommended for certification by DCOM.
2. Recertification: The only course for recertification for this year is the course based upon the book Five Practices for Fruitful Congregations. This means the classes taught spring and late summer 2011. Please remember that all the work must have been completed successfully -- including the paper that was to be sent to the instructor at the end of the session. Any student who did not submit the paper did not satisfy the training requirement.

The place where the course was held refers to the actual site (the name of the church or the Mission Center) where the course was taught.

I hope all this is helpful. Please do not hesitate to email or call me if I can help.

Peace,
Sandra M. King-Shaw
Conference Director of Certified Lay Ministry
sandraumc@verizon.net



For non-registered churches—Change the World Mission Work Day
On Saturday, Oct. 8-10, more than 11,000 people have registered to Change the World during a conference-wide mission work weekend. Projects range from health screenings, to flood bucket assembly, to food drives and even a manicure for residents of a nursing home. Everyone is reaching out to serve outside the walls of the church as a powerful witness to God’s love in our communities and the world.

If your congregation has not yet registered, I wanted to let you know that there is still time to do so. The dates of this service project have been extended through Saturday, Oct. 29. While the goal was to engage our conference in mission during the weekend of October 8-10, we don’t want to discourage any church in the Baltimore Washington Conference who has a call to serve. Perhaps your church is planning to do mission during Oct. 8-29, but you haven’t yet registered. Our goal is to have 15,000 United Methodists joining hands and hearts Oct. 8-29 to serve our communities and we need your help to achieve this.

Won’t you prayerfully consider registering a mission project so we can unite together as one in witness to our communities and achieve this God-sized goal? You can register by visiting: http://www.bwcumc.org/events/changetheworld or contact me and I will take care of your registration, ogross@bwcumc.org or 410-309-3430.

I look forward to serving with you in this great mission project that will touch so many lives.
WE CAN DO THIS!
Blessings, Olivia Gross



ERT TRAINING
The Washington Region of the Baltimore-Washington Conference needs you to volunteer to be trained as an ERT member.
What is an ERT? An ERT is an Early Response Team.
What does an ERT do? Provide a caring Christian in the aftermath of a disaster. Take steps to prevent further damage to a person’s property i.e. tarping, debris removal. Cleaning out flooded homes, manage donated materials, observe survivors’ needs

Training date: OCTOBER 22, 2011
Location: FAIRHAVEN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
12801 Darnestown Road, Darnestown, MD 20878
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Contact/RSVP:REV. GERARD “GERRY” GREEN 301-330-9828 OR 301-216-4339
E-MAIL – Ggreen@asbury.org
He will answer any questions, provide details, and sign you up for training.
Cost: $25.00
Registration ends October 16, 2011



Pre-Retirement Seminar
Open to clergy age 50 and above
Wednesday, November 16
9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The Baltimore-Washington Conference Mission Center
11711 East Market Place
Fulton, Maryland 20759

The Board of Ordained Ministry will be hosting the Pre-Retirement Seminar for clergy and their spouse, age 50 years and older. Spouses are encouraged to attend due to the nature of the information provided.

Topics Include:
• Pension benefits
• Non-Pension benefits
• Health Insurance Benefits
• Housing Allowance
• Resources for Social Security & Medicare Benefits
• 1:1 Pension Consultation

The cost is $15 per person. Lunch will be provided.

Registration must be done online. Payment is by credit card only. REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN – deadline to register is Friday, November 4th

To register, please go to http://www.bwcumc.org/events/preretirementseminar.

CEU’s of .6 will be given to clergy participants.
If you have any questions, please contact the Benefits Office at 410-309-3479.



Help Spread the Word: Bells Across America Will Ring To Honor Fallen Firefighters
• Special video message to the fire service from NFFF executive director Chief Ronald J. Siarnicki http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCPMpXa91Pc.
• Let your community know about Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters, the first nationwide remembrance for firefighters who died in the line of duty on Sunday, October 16. Learn more at http://www.bellsacrossamerica.com/
• Carry FireHero Network live stream of 2011 Memorial Weekend events on your department’s website & encourage local media to do the same ‐ http://weekend.firehero.org/media/live.html
• Also, honor the fallen by embedding the National Fallen Firefighters Tribute Widget on their websites, blogs or social media pages. Go to http://weekend.firehero.org/widget.

EMMITSBURG, MD – For the first time in the 30‐year history of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend the bells of the Memorial Chapel will ring on Sunday, October 16 to honor the fallen. As part of this tribute, fire departments and places of worship and other community organizations will join the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation for Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters, the first nationwide remembrance for firefighters who died in the line of duty.

The NFFF created the website, http://www.bellsacrossamerica.com/ which explains the program. A letter of invitation, frequently asked questions about the program and a response form are all available on the website. Fire department representatives are encouraged to work with their clergy and community leaders to decide what type of remembrance is best. Some suggestions include: ringing chapel bells, a moment of silence, a brief prayer, a hymn, tolling a ceremonial bell by members of the Fire Department, or any combination of these. The remembrance can occur at any time on Sunday, October 16.

“When a firefighter dies in the line of duty, the sadness resonates through an entire community. Through Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters, everyone across the country has the opportunity to pay tribute to the lives of these brave men and women who willingly take risks to protect and serve their communities,” said Chief Ronald J. Siarnicki, executive director of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

In addition to Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters, departments and individuals can add the National Fallen Firefighters Tribute Widget to their website, blog or Facebook page. The widget is a small box that will appear on the site, continually scrolling the names of firefighters honored in Emmitsburg.

The photos of seven firefighters who will be honored are rotated each day for one week leading up to Memorial Weekend. Go to http://weekend.firehero.org/widget to copy and embed the widget.

The Fire Hero Network will be in full operation during Memorial Weekend. The Candlelight Service and Memorial Service will again be televised and sent around the world via satellite and the Internet. Departments can be a part of the network by streaming the events on your department's website. (http://weekend.firehero.org/media/live.html) The NFFF invites all departments to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice and to encourage local news media to do the same.

In addition, there will be a Fire Hero Radio webcast from Memorial Weekend and continuous updates on social media, including the Foundation's Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/NationalFallenFirefightersFoundation) and Twitter feed (https://twitter.com/NFFF_News)

For more information about the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, go to weekend.firehero.org.

About the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF)

The United States Congress created the NFFF to lead a nationwide effort to remember America's fallen firefighters. Since 1992, the nonprofit foundation has developed and expanded programs to honor fallen fire heroes and assist their families and coworkers. The NFFF also works closely with the U.S. Fire Administration to help prevent and reduce line of duty deaths and injuries. For more information on the Foundation and its programs, contact us at 301-447-1365 or visit http://www.firehero.org/.



Connect with Your Neighbors Conference
You are cordially invite you to the Connect with Your Neighbors Conference from the Lewis Center for Church Leadership of Wesley Theological Seminary. The conference is for both laity and clergy and features insightful presentations and practical workshops to help you roll up your sleeves and connect with new disciples.

As the conference title conveys, we want to help you connect with those around you. These connections include not just individuals in your neighborhoods, but also those from other Greater Washington-Baltimore area congregations you may meet at the conference. It is our hope that we are able to foster relationships between congregations to help all of us strengthen our ability to make new disciples throughout the region.

The Connect with Your Neighbors Conference is Saturday, November 5 from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on our campus at 4500 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC.

Presentations:
• Discovering the People God has Given Us by Dr. Lovett H. Weems, Jr., Distinguished Professor of Church Leadership of Wesley Theological Seminary and Director of the Lewis Center
• The Theology of Welcome by Dr. Amy Oden, Dean of Wesley Theological Seminary

Workshops:
• Discovering Who Your Neighbors Are
• Ways to Understand Your Neighbors Better
• Using Social Media to Reach New People
• Your Website Is Your Church's Welcome Mat
• Needs-based Community Outreach

For more information, please visit http://www.churchleadership.com/newdisciples/default.asp?id=cc13.