Announcement: Future of Gathering of the Laity

During the past two years, the Conference Board of Laity has had an ongoing discussion regarding the Gathering of the Laity. Because of the significantly diminished attendance and the financial deficits related to the presentation of the event, the discussion has focused on the status and the continuation of the Gathering. At its meeting on February 15, the Board decided unanimously to conclude the Gathering of the Laity with the 50th celebration of the event on August 7 and 8, 2015. In the coming months, we will encourage all of the laity of the conference to offer feedback and suggestions through a survey and further conversation with the board. The Board will then direct its efforts toward the creation of activities or events which will be inspirational and will provide leadership skills to a wide range of laity throughout the conference. We intend to live out the basic mission of the conference: to follow Jesus, make disciples and transform the world. Robert D. Upchurch President, Board of Laity