By Rev. Jennifer Lambert, Annual Conference Secretary
Annual Conference 2021 promises to be as unusual as Annual Conference 2020. At this writing (January 24, 2021), our Annual Conference will focus on the theme, “Many Gifts, One Spirit.” The focus Scriptures for our time together will be 1 Corinthians 12:4-7, 1 Peter 3:8-11, and Matthew 5:23-24.
While we wait to finalize some of the other details, there are deadlines set in our Conference Rules to mark in pencil on your calendars. February 28th is the last date to submit proposed Rules Changes. Because we are scheduled to have a Western Jurisdictional Conference in 2021, we will also be receiving names for episcopal nominations. These nominations are due by April 1st. Reports for Annual Conference must be received by April 30th. The Sessions Committee will meet in mid-February, after which updates regarding the format for Annual Conference, as well as its dates, will be available. As we prepare for Annual Conference 2021, I offer this prayer:
Gracious God, we pray for your wisdom and discernment during this continued season of uncertainty. May we open our eyes to the vision you would have for the Desert Southwest Conference. May we listen for your Spirit’s nudging. And may we remember our call to be your disciples in our world. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
