OURNAL OF HE E ASTERN ENNSYLVANIA ONFERENCE T HE U NITED …€¦ · United Methodist Church and...

2016 Journal of The easTern Pennsylvania ConferenCe

The uniTed MeThodisT ChurCh

- 435 - Rules of Order

Rules of Order

Article I – Meetings1. The Annual Conference shall convene each year for the transaction of business as provided by the Discipline of The United Methodist Church and shall consider and act upon such other matters as may properly be brought before it.2. The place for holding the Annual Conference Session shall have the approval of the Bishop and the Commission on Conference Sessions prior to conference action. (See Discipline, P. 603.2)3. Special Sessions may be held as provided by the Discipline. (p. 603.5)4. The Bishop assigned shall preside or arrange for another Bishop to preside in case of the Bishop’s inability. In the absence of a Bishop, the Conference shall by ballot, without nomination or debate, elect a president pro tempore from among the traveling elders. The president thus elected shall discharge all the duties of a Bishop except ordination.5. The choice of a visiting Bishop and/or major speakers shall be the prerogative of the Bishop.

Article II – Organization1. The sessions shall include a service of Holy Communion and Memorial Service and recording of the roll of members indicated in the Discipline, P. 603 including local pastors.2. A Secretary, Treasurer, and Statistician and such other officers as the Conference may authorize, including assistant secretaries, shall be elected, the Secretary to nominate assistants.3. The Conference shall establish a “Bar of the Conference” for the seating of its members.4. The Conference may adopt an agenda prepared by the Bishop and the Commission on Conference Sessions.5. The Conference Secretary shall assign Tellers who will be available for tabulation of written ballots as required in Plenary Sessions. Count votes will be counted by the Conference Secretarial Staff.6. The Conference Secretary shall provide for teams of Pages who will be assigned for each Plenary Session to assist the distribution of printed reports and materials pertinent to business pending before the Plenary Session. These materials are to be provided to an Associate Secretary designated by the Conference Secretary.

a. Only authorized materials pertinent to Plenary Sessions business shall be distributed on the floor ofconference. Agencies, institutions, and groups interested in provided promotional or informational material may do so by distributing it at the doors using their own personnel. Such material shall clearly identify the sponsoring agency, institution, or group.b. The Commission on Conference Sessions shall not bar the distribution of informational or promotional material handled in accordance with 6.a.

Article III – Clergy SessionA Clergy Session of Clergy Members and the Lay Members of the Board of Ordained Ministry shall be held for the purposes defined by the Discipline of The United Methodist Church.

Article IV – Duties of OfficersThe responsibilities and duties of officers shall be the general duties pertaining to these offices, those prescribed by the Discipline and such other duties as the Conference may from time to time direct.

Article V – Bonds and AuditsAll treasurers, other officers, trustees, and persons handling funds or securities of the Conference or any board, commission, committee, or other agency thereof shall be bonded in appropriate amounts.All accounts of treasurers and trustees shall be audited by experienced disinterested public accountants or certified public accountants as provided by the Discipline. The auditor’s reports and recommendations shall be submitted to the Council on Finance and Administration.

Article VI – Commission on Conference SessionsThere shall be a Commission on Conference Sessions whose responsibility, under the direction of the Bishop, shall be to prepare an agenda and arrange the program of the Annual Session. This shall include responsibility for soliciting reports from all Conference agencies and other reporting groups; caring for the physical arrangements at the site of Annual Conference; caring for all expenses mandated by the Conference; and planning all inspirational and devotional periods.



- 436 -Rules of Order

Article VII – ReportsAll boards, commissions, councils, societies, corporations, and other agencies related to the Conference shall receive notice of the time and person to whom reports of such bodies that are to be published in the Journal shall be sent.

Article VIII – Resolutions1. Resolutions shall be invited from local churches, conference agencies, conference related institutions, or individual church members. The deadline for receiving these resolutions shall be set by the Conference Secretary and shall be at least thirty days prior to Annual Conference. A notice to this effect along with the name and address of the person to whom resolutions shall be sent and the deadline date shall be appropriately publicized.2. Resolutions shall be printed and distributed to the members of Annual Conference al least ten days prior to the Annual Conference session. These resolutions shall have a first priority upon the work of the Annual Conference. A Consent Calendar may be established by the Agenda Committee to assist the work of the Annual Conference. Any resolution may be lifted from the Consent Calendar upon the request by 10 members at the time the Consent Calendar is presented to the Annual Conference for adoption.3. Resolutions received after the announced deadline or during the session of Annual Conference will be reviewed by the Agenda Committee. In consultation with the Presiding Bishop this Committee will determine which resolutions will be printed for distribution to Conference members. The Agenda Committee shall include the Conference Secretary, the Chairperson of Conference Sessions, The Executive Director of Congregational Transformation/Connectional Ministries, Conference Lay Leader, and The Dean of the Cabinet.

Article IX – Disposition of Reports and ResolutionsWhen presented to the Conference Plenary Session a resolution or report becomes the possession of the body, to be disposed of as it will, including amendment, substitution, etc.

Article X – Rules of Order Debate1. A member desiring to address the Conference shall proceed to a microphone and, after recognition by the presiding officer, shall first state clearly said member’s name and charge represented.2. No member who has the floor may be interrupted, except by the presiding officer for a breach of order, or a misrepresentation, or to bring to the attention of the Conference that the time has arrived for a special order, or to raise a question of a very high privilege.

a. Motions - Members may speak only to a motion before the Conference or to offer a motion. Speeches shall not precede a motion.b. Motion for Previous Question - A motion for the “previous question” shall be made from a microphone, and shall not be in order unless at least two members have spoken for and two against the motion. A motion for the “previous question” shall not be appended to or supported by a speech. If in order, debate shall end, and a vote be taken on said motion. The mover shall state whether the motion applies only to a proposed amendment to a motion, or all that is before it. A motion for the “previous question” must be sustained by a two-thirds vote of members within the Bar of the Conference.c. Motion to suspend the Rules - A motion to suspend the rules be sustained by two-thirds of the members within the Bar of the Conference.d. Voting - Voting shall be by raising the hand except that when a count vote is called for. Those members voting in favor of the motion shall arise and remain standing until counted, after which those against the motion shall arise and remain standing until counted. In case of a disability that prevents voting in the prescribed fashion (i.e. standing) the presiding officer shall recognize the intended vote of that member by another means so as not to disenfranchise any member.e. Motions and Resolutions to be in Writing - All motions and resolutions shall be written and copies submitted to the presiding officer and the secretary.f. Length of Time Granted on the Floor of Annual Conference Session

i. Once recognized by the Bishop as Presiding Officer of the Annual Conference Session, any delegate seated within the bar of the Annual Conference or other person granted permission to speak within the bar of the Annual Conference may speak up to three minutes. A one minute warning may be given and after that time has elapsed, the Presiding Officer may interrupt that member and terminate permission to speak.ii. The privilege of addressing the Annual Conference Session is extended to groups and individualsmaking presentations on the adopted agenda, with clearly understood time commitments specified inadvance. A one minute signal before the end of their allotted time may be given, and after that time, the Presiding Officer may interrupt those persons, groups, or individuals and terminate permission to speak.



- 437 - Rules of Order

g. Other Parliamentary Rules - Other parliamentary rules shall be those adopted by the preceding General Conference of The United Methodist Church, or if the parliamentary situation be not covered, then by the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order (latest version).h. Plenary Sessions - In the Plenary Sessions, members desiring to offer motions which are not scheduled as part of an Agenda item (Art II, P. 4) shall confer in advance with the Chairperson of the Commission on Conference Sessions.

Article XI – Conference Journal1. The Conference shall keep an exact record of its proceedings, and other items required by the Discipline, and shall publish annually a Journal which shall include the items required by the Discipline to be included in its Journal. The Journal shall incorporate the addresses and telephone numbers of the pastors, lay members and alternates, church lay leaders, certified lay speakers, and other such information, as the Conference shall direct. Agencies related to the Conference shall bear the precise corporate titles.2. At the recommendation of the Conference Council on Finance and Administration, during the Fall Budget Session, Nov. 9, 1996, the Annual Conference approved an action to charge for the Journal rather than have it supplied at no charge, beginning in 1997.

Article XII – Responsibilities of Boards, Commissions, Committees, and Other Organizations Required by the Discipline

1. The various boards, commissions, committees, and other organizations required to be a part of the AnnualConference structure are as set forth in the Discipline, as the same may from time to time be amended, provided, however, that the Conference may refer to such organizations such matters as are not inconsistent there with. 2. Additional boards, commissions, committees, and organizations may be authorized by the Conference, where it is deemed inappropriate or inexpedient to refer a subject proposal to an existing organization.3. Ex-officio members who have been appointed or elected to serve the Conference on boards, commissions, committees, and other organizations shall have the right to vote. Advisory members shall have the right to voice without vote.

Article XIII – Tenure on Boards, etc.NO person may serve on the same board, commission, council, or committee of this Conference for a longer continuous period than two quadrennium except those serving in an ex-officio capacity or other position involving experience making replacement inexpedient when upon the request of such organization to the nominating committee and exception may be recommended to the Conference. It is understood that the maximum term is ten years or two quadrenniums. Persons serving two years or less on a board or agency will be considered eligible for the two quadrennium tenure.

1. The period of service of all elected to office shall begin with the adjournment of the Conference Session in which they were elected.2. All boards, agencies, and commissions, required by the Discipline to organize annually shall reorganize within two weeks of the Annual Conference and the names of the officers shall be reported to the Conference Secretary for inclusion in the Journal.3. The Officiary of the local church shall be elected to serve on the basis of the calendar year.4. No person shall serve on more than one major agency (i.e., boards, commissions, councils, divisions) of the Annual Conference, except in the case of ex-officio members and minority ethnic members of our Conference who are permitted to serve on at least two Conference agencies.5. No person shall serve on the Board of Directors/Board of Trustees of an incorporated agency affiliated with the Annual Conference, whose board members are elected by the Conference, except in the case of ex-officio members of boards, and ethnic minority members of the Conference who shall follow the rule of the Conference and that this rule be implemented in the immediate future years by the process of attrition.

Article XIV – AttendancePunctual and regular attendance of the members of the Conference is expected except in cases of emergency. Those requesting to be excused must make the request in writing to the Conference Secretary. In the case of anticipated absence of lay members, arrangement should be made to have the alternate lay member seated. Every charge should be represented at all business sessions. (Discipline P. 602.4)



- 438 -Rules of Order

Article XV – Financial ReportsAll boards and agencies shall submit annually financial reports reflecting assets and liabilities as well as receipts and disbursements, which shall be printed in the Journal.

Article XVI – Election Process for General and Jurisdictional Conference DelegatesThe Nomination process for the election of delegates to the 2020 General Conference and 2020 Jurisdictional Conference shall be governed by the following procedures:

1. Nominating petitions will be sent to clergy members in full connection and lay members of the Annual Conference at least three months prior to the Annual Conference session.2. Nominating petitions will allow for a maximum of 10 nominees. Persons will be nominated when their names have been identified on 10 nominating petitions. As in the election process, the nominations process shall allow clergy to nominate clergy and laity to nominate laity.3. Nominees shall fulfill the Disciplinary and Constitutional requirements outlined in the Constitution, paragraphs 35 and 36.4. Nominating petitions shall be returned to the Conference Secretary no later than March 10, 2019.5. The Board of Lay Ministry may make additional laity nominations.6. After March 10 all nominees will be provided an acceptance form. Nominees will return their acceptance form by March 31 for their names to appear on the ballot.7. Nominees will provide biographical information and a brief written statement by March 31. The list of nominees, biographical material and statements will be printed in the NewSpirit.8. From the nominee acceptance forms, the Conference Secretary will prepare separate clergy and laity ballots. The ballots will include spaces for write-ins.9. Lay nominations will be accepted from the floor provided a nominating petition fulfilling #2 above and an acceptance form are duly presented. Five hundred copies of a biographical profile and statement are required for immediate distribution.10. Election shall be by majority of valid ballots cast on each ballot, clergy and laity voting separately.11. Balloting for the specified number of delegates to General Conference will begin first. These persons are elected as delegates to General Conference and Jurisdictional Conference. After their election, the additional number of persons to be elected as Jurisdictional Conference delegates shall begin. Upon completion of these elections, a final ballot will be taken to elect three alternates to Jurisdictional Conference; the three persons receiving the highest number of votes will be elected.12. Judges of Elections shall be appointed to oversee the tabulation of ballots, certify the election of delegates, and convey the ballots and report to the Conference Secretary.13. All Jurisdictional Conference delegates will be alternate delegates to the General Conference in order of their election.14. The Annual Conference will assume the costs of the first clergy and laity alternates to attend the General Conference. The Annual Conference will assume the costs of the six alternates to attend the Jurisdictional Conference.

Article XVII - Petitions to General ConferenceFor any General Conference resolution or proposed disciplinary change, the required vote to approve such resolutions shall require a 3/4 majority of votes cast. These resolutions will be placed at the beginning of the Conference Sessions.

Article XVIII – AmendmentsThese Rules and Regulations may be amended at any regular session of the Conference provided six hours shall elapse after the first reading before action is taken. A majority vote shall be necessary to adopt. Amendment may be made at a Special Session provided the proposed amendment is incorporated in the call.

Article XIXThe Conference Secretary as editor of the Journal shall be authorized to make editorial changes to paragraph numbers to reflect the language of the current Book of Discipline. The Secretary will be further authorized to change the years listed in Article XVI as appropriate for subsequent general conference.



- 439 - 2016 Annual Conference Proceedings

230th Session of Annual Conference Proceedings

Eastern Pennsylvania Conferenceof The United Methodist Church

June 16 – June 18, 2016Lancaster Marriott and Convention Center

25 South Queen Street, Lancaster PA 17603

Thursday, June 16, 2016

8:30 a.m. Registration

9:30 a.m. Clergy Session, Laity Session

12:00 p.m. Lunch

1:45 p.m. Gathering Music (“Jesus Trending” from Hopewell UMC)

Opening WorshipThe service began with a procession and traditional Native American Friendship Dance. This was followed by an opening prayer by Barry Lee, translated into English by Barbara Christy, from the Munsee and Munsee/Seneca people. The names of the Conestoga people who died in Lancaster in 1763 in what is known as the “Conestoga Massacre” were then read. After this, a call to repentance was read. This was followed by the hymn “God of Grace and God of Glory.” After Sandy Cianciulli, from the Lakota people, prayed, Rev. Dr. Thom White Wolf Fassett, of the Seneca Nation, preached on John1:1-5, with the title of the message being “A New Beginning.” After the message, Bishop Peggy Johnson and David Koch, Conference Lay Leader, led the body in a responsive confession. Members of the body were then asked to tie a gray ribbon on each other’s wrist as acknowledgment of the commitment to “to complete the circle” so that such atrocities would never be committed again. A list of potential ways to make this commitment a reality was then read. This was followed by the hymn “Amazing Grace,” and communion (with the praying of a Native American version of the Great Thanksgiving). The hymn “O God the Creator” was then sung, and the benediction was pronounced.

Convening/OrganizationFollowing a short break after the opening worship service, Bishop Peggy Johnson called the 230th Session of the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference to order.

HymnThose gathered sang “And Are We Yet Alive.”

Welcome and IntroductionsBishop Peggy Johnson greeted the body. She then offered an opening prayer in which she acknowledged those persons who had been recently killed in Orlando, as well as mentioning the victims of several other recent tragedies.

Adoption of the AgendaBishop Peggy Johnson called on Rev. Lloyd Speer, Conference Secretary, to present the agenda. It had been printed in the annual conference packet. It was approved.

Presiding Table IntroductionsBishop Peggy Johnson then introduced those at the presiding table: Tamara Wims (Conference staff and Youth Delegate), Rev. Lloyd Speer (Conference Secretary), Rev. Bruce Rogers (Parliamentarian), and David Koch, (Conference Lay Leader).

Guest IntroductionsBishop Peggy Johnson introduced several people. The first was Rev. Edward Bailey, pastor of Bethel AME, in Lancaster. Rev. Bailey addressed the body, sharing greetings from his church and his denomination. Bishop Johnson then introduced Rev. John Calhoun, the Northeast Jurisdiction Mission Specialist.



- 440 -2016 Annual Conference Proceedings

Rules of OrderRev. Lloyd Speer presented the Rules of Order that had been printed in the annual conference packets. He moved their adoption. The Rules of Order were approved.

Resolution 2016-01Rev. Joe DiPaolo addressed the body to present a resolution to add a process for voting for General Conference Delegates to the Rules of Order. Since doing so, required suspending the rules in order to amend them, Rev. DiPaolo began with a motion to suspend the rules. After the motion had been seconded, it was followed by questions and discussion. The body approved suspending the rules for this purpose.

Organizational and Procedural MotionRev. Lloyd Speer defined the area from within which voting should take place, and made a motion to establish that area as the bar of the conference. The motion was approved.

Consent CalendarRev. Lloyd Speer moved the adoption of the Consent Calendar, which consisted of Resolutions 2016-02, 2016-03, 2016-04, and 2016-13). It was seconded and approved.

Resolution 2016-20Rev. Lloyd Speer presented the resolution, and made the motion that it be tabled to the 2016 Adjourned Session of Annual Conference, as the maker of the motion was not able to be in attendance. The motion was seconded, and approved.

Points of Personal PrivilegeBishop Johnson asked that requests for personal privilege be brought to the Conference Secretary, with a brief description of the request, and she would recognize those requests prior to adjournment.

Episcopacy ReportRev. Evelyn Kent Clark reported that a survey was taken in the Northeastern Jurisdiction about issues related to the episcopacy in the jurisdiction, the results of which were discussed with Bishop Johnson. She also said that a survey about the needs and issues of our annual conference related to possible future episcopal appointments was also filled out, and returned to the jurisdiction. Rev. Clark also reported that it would not be known what would happen in relation to episcopal appointments in the next quadrennium until the Jurisdictional Conference, but decisions would be announced on July 15, 2016. The Episcopacy Committee then presented Bishop Johnson with a prayer shawl, and also gave a gift to Rev. Michael Johnson, and Amy Botti.

General Conference ReportRev. Dawn Taylor-Storm and Judy Ehninger, along with the rest of the General Conference delegation, presented a report about the 2016 General Conference. In the report, they shared personal reflections about the event, as well as some of the milestones that were celebrated, such as the 60th anniversary of the ordination of women, the 30th anniversary of Disciple Bible study, and the upcoming 25th anniversary of Africa University.

Jurisdictional ConferenceJudy Ehninger introduced the members of the EPC Host Committee to the body, and invited additional volunteers to join them in presenting hospitality to the jurisdictional delegates on July 11 to 15, 2016.

After announcements, and the meal grace by Luki Cotto, Bishop Peggy Johnson adjourned the session.

6:15 p.m. Gathering Music (“Jesus Trending” from Hopewell UMC)

6:30 p.m. Video presentation of General Conference proceedings and decisions

Teaching SessionBishop Peggy Johnson introduced Rev. Dr. Thom White Wolf Fassett. His teaching session was based on the act of repentance, explaining why it is necessary, and how it affects both the Native American community and the Church as a whole. He explained that the issues he was addressing are not just limited to our nation, but are issues that exist around the world, although the American context is the one on which he would be focusing. Rev. Fassett went on to explain that “being




saved” or “born again” means we must think not just about ourselves, but others as well, and how our actions effect other people. He then explained that history is not just a record of the past, but also a representation of our theology, and the role we believe the Church should have in the world. After reviewing the many ways that the history of our nation shows that we have not lived up to the theology we claim to hold, he challenged the body to do better in the future, although achieving this may be painful as it will require significant changes to both thought and behavior.

7:45 p.m. Holy Conferencing

Bishop Johnson called the body back into session, and introduced Youth Delegate Jose Tirado. Jose then opened the session with prayer.

Nominations ReportDr. Carol Black asked the Conference Nomination Committee members to rise so they could be recognized. She thanked those who were completing their terms. Then she presented the Nominations Report for the 2016 to 2020 quadrennium. Several corrections were made to the published written report, and it was explained that the report would be voted on later in the session.

Statistical ReportThe Rev. Dr. Bronwyn Yocum presented the statistical report for her husband, Gordon Yocum, who was not able to be present. Highlights of the report were that while worship attendance in all of our districts has continued to decline, 10% of our churches reported 10% or greater growth, and 20% grew in attendance. Sunday School attendance and persons received by profession of faith have also been continuing to decline. There has been growth in missions, however, in terms of “VIM” teams, and in the number of lives touched, as well as in the amount of money given to benevolences of various types.

2017 Budget ReportKip Craven addressed the body, and explained that the Conference Council on Finance and Administration was still revising the 2017 budget. He, therefore, moved that it be tabled to the 2016 Adjourned Session of Annual Conference. The motion was seconded, and approved.

Apportionment Formula ResolutionKip Craven explained that the Council on Finance and Administration was still revising the resolution, and moved that it be tabled to the 2016 Adjourned Session of Annual Conference. The motion was seconded, and approved.

Redistricting PlanKip Craven explained that the redistricting plan proposal is not yet complete, and moved that it be tabled to the 2016 Adjourned Session of Annual Conference. The motion was seconded, and approved.

Treasurer’s ElectionKip Craven explained that according to paragraph 619 of the 2012 Book of Discipline, the Annual Conference is to elect a treasurer at the beginning of each quadrennium. He then stated that the Conference Council on Finance and Administration moved to continue Jim Cruickshank in that position. The body then elected Jim to that position for the 2016 to 2020 quadrennium.

Trustee ReportAlan Kingcade explained that with the possibility of redistricting before the conference, the Board of Trustees has been looking into options for any excess property that might result from downsizing the number of districts. He also said they have been looking at how the office requirements for each district would be handled in a newly configured district arrangement. He then laid out a potential process for handling such issues should the proposal to go from six to four districts be approved. There was no vote taken, as the presentation was merely for informational purposes.

Capital CampaignThe body “listened in” as the Rev. Dennis Emrick and Kip Craven had a “conversation” that explained that a net result of $2,086,022 had been raised in the “Fulfilling the Covenant Campaign” for the pre-1982 retirement indebtedness. This allowed the conference not to raise the direct billing amounts billed to local churches, but still possibly meet the $3,000,000 goal that was originally set for the campaign.




Resolution 2016-08Barbara Drake presented the resolution from the Church and Society work team, which encouraged the Pennsylvania Legislature to provide health care coverage for all children residing within the state, even if they are not documented citizens. The body approved the resolution.

Superintendents ReportBishop Peggy Johnson introduced the Cabinet, and explained that the Rev. Gary Nicholson would be leaving the Cabinet to return to local church ministry, and because of the possibility of downsizing the following year would be replaced by Rev. Joe Tyson, who would temporarily come out of retirement to serve the Northwest District.

Rev. Dr. Anita Adams Powell then began the Superintendent’s Report, which was titled “A Tribute to God and A Testimony of Thanks.” She shared several activities of the cabinet, and their leadership goals. She invited the body to sing “Spirit of the Living God.” Each of the District Superintendents then reported some of the ministry accomplishments that have been occurring on each of their respective districts.

After announcements, and the meal grace, Bishop Peggy Johnson adjourned the session.

Friday June 17, 2016

7:30 a.m. Communion Service with the Order of St. Luke

8:45 a.m. Gathering Music (David Bryant, organist at First UMC, Phoenixville)

Teaching SessionBishop Peggy Johnson introduced Bishop Linda Lee, retired Episcopal leader, and currently the Bishop in Residence at the Garrett Evangelical Divinity School. Bishop Lee then came forward to speak. Her message was based on Ephesians 2:13-16, and was titled “A Church and World For All People.” She began by saying that we are living in an era when the most important thing we can do is find solutions for how to handle our differences. This is especially important in terms of differences of race. To move in this direction, however, we need to seriously address interpersonal and institutional racism. This means looking at everything from how resources are used globally to whether or not there are supermarkets in ethnic communities, as well as the impact of relationships that are not healthy or holy. She then led the body through a series of issues, and had the body talk at their tables about several different topics. Finally, she summarized some of the things that need to still be done to make the hope of racial reconciliation a reality. She then closed by reminding the body that when they joined the church, they committed themselves to “renounce the spiritual forces of wickedness, reject the evil powers of this world, and repent of their sins,” and to “accept the freedom and power God gives to resist evil, injustice, and oppression,” for this was part of their commitment to accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. She then led the body in a closing song

After a short break, Bishop Peggy Johnson called the body back into session. Youth Delegate Matthew Lynch offered a prayer.

Monitoring ReportMarilyn Wilt presented the monitoring report, a collaborative effort of the Status and Role of Women, the Commission on Religion and Race, and the Disability Concerns Committee. She explained that the purpose of the report is to help the Annual Conference intentionally model “the beloved community,” as it will not happen accidentally or through wishful thinking alone, and to give a voice to those not being heard. Some of the things noted in the report on Thursday’s sessions were:

• During the laity session, there were equal numbers of male and female presenters, but there were six times as many white persons involved as there were persons of color.

• The video in the laity session showed whites helping, and African Americans being helped.• In the clergy session, there were virtually equal numbers of men and women participating, but no male persons of color

spoke at the microphones.• There is only one person of color being commissioned, and no person of color being ordained.• While the laity session had video screens so all persons could see and hear what was occurring, this was not the case

in the clergy session.• The inclusion of gluten-free bread, and water as well as juice, was helpful so all persons could participate.• Marilyn concluded the report by reminding the body that “presence does not always guarantee or ensure participation.”




Resolution 2016-01Rev. Joe DiPaolo presented the resolution to add a rule about voting for General Conference delegates to our standing Rules of Order back to the floor. After discussion and questions, a substitute motion was offered. After additional discussion, the matter was tabled until a printed version of the substitute motion was available for comparison.

Guest IntroductionsBishop Peggy Johnson introduced Dr. Virginia Samuel, Associate Dean at Drew Theological School. She brought greetings from the seminary

Resolution 2016-07Lauren Ballester presented the resolution, and moved its adoption. After she had spoken to it, the body approved the resolution.

Resolution 2016-19 Rev. Beverly Andrews presented the resolution, and moved its adoption. After she had spoken to it, there was discussion and questions. After an amendment had been approved, Rev. Jim McIntyre asked for a Ruling of Law as to whether the amendment changed the Book of Resolutions. The request for a Ruling of Law was not supported by the body. The body then voted to approve the resolution as amended.

Order of Deacons 20th AnniversaryRev. Tiffany Manning made a presentation, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Order of Deacons. In the Eastern Pennsylvania, there were 6 Deacons in the first class, and the order has grown to over 30 Provisional and Ordained Deacons, with more in the candidacy process. A video of the work of Deacons in our conference was then shown.

Rev. Lloyd Speer shared announcements, and Rev. Tiffany Manning offered the meal grace.

1:30 p.m. Gathering Music (David Bryant, organist at First UMC, Phoenixville)


Conference Lay Leader ReportDavid Koch opened his report by saying that it was not just a good time to be a United Methodist, but a great time to be a United Methodist. The 2015 Laity Academy had 150 attendees, 40 first time attendees, 85 Christ Servant Ministers, 17 Local Church Servants, 4 Certified Lay Ministers, and one clergy person. There were also ten instructors. The format for the 2016 academy will be held over two days instead of three, to reduce costs for participants. Each district held “Toolkit” events this past year that offered practical courses for local church leadership and outreach. The Northeast District even offered a “poverty simulation” in the afternoon. David then shared a number of local church programs that minister to the community. He also invited the body to look at the future as an opportunity to do even more as a disciple of Jesus Christ, and not just a time of scary change.

United Methodist WomenBarbara Drake, past President, presented a report on behalf of Gladys Hubbard and Susan Zook, current co-Presidents, who were not able to be present. She shared that the United Methodist Women’s group is the largest group of organized Christian women in the world, with about 8 million members worldwide, and about 4,000 members in the Eastern PA Conference. In addition to being involved in their own congregations, the members of United Methodist Women worldwide gave an additional 12 million dollars to mission causes through the organization, and here in the Eastern PA Conference gave over $165,000. In 2019, the United Methodist Women will celebrate their 150th anniversary. In anticipation of that, over $426,000 has been given toward a “Legacy Fund.” Its purpose is to create an endowment fund that will cover the administrative expenses of the organization beginning in 2019. This would allow all future giving to the organization to go fully to mission causes. Here in the Eastern PA Conference, the three main programs of the organization are: “Mission U,” formerly the School of Christian Mission; “Girls on the Go,” a retreat for teenage girls; and the Ingathering.

United Methodist MenClifford Hubbard began his report by noting the contributions of Ross Brightwell to the organization through the years. In the past year, the group created a constitution for the organization. They are planning to resume having an annual gathering. They are also looking to continue some of the other programs that have been occurring over the years, such as the night at the 76ers, United Methodist Day at the Phillies, the Day at Dorney Park, and the annual softball tournament, which will




be renamed the “Ross Brightwell Memorial Tournament.” The potato drop was not able to occur because St. Andrews is no longer sponsoring it, but another organization may be offering such a program in the future. He also spoke about other possible conference-wide programs and ministries that are being considered.

Resolution 2016-01Bishop Johnson explained that a copy of the substitute resolution had been placed at each table in the room, and would be brought up on the video displays. She then asked Rev. Andrew Foster to speak briefly to the substitute resolution. After he had done so, several questions were asked. Bishop Johnson then asked Rev. Joe DiPaolo to speak to the original resolution. After several more questions were asked, the body voted not to approve the substitute resolution. After the vote, a motion to amend the resolution was made, and after discussion the amendment was approved. An additional amendment was then offered, but after discussion it was not approved.

With the need to move to an Order of the Day, the resolution was temporarily set aside.

Introduction of Candidates & Historic QuestionsRev. Mindy McKonly (chairperson of the Board of Ordained Ministry) presented to the body those persons who have been approved by the clergy session for commissioning toward Elders and Deacons orders, those persons who have been approved for full membership, and those persons who have been approved for ordination. Bishop Peggy Johnson then asked the candidates for ordination John Wesley’s historic questions. This was followed by a ‘passing of the mantle” ceremony, and a time of prayer in which those who were retiring at this annual conference prayed for and anointed those who were being ordained.

Retiree RecognitionAfter an instrumental prelude of “To God Be the Glory,” the service began with a call to worship and the hymn “The Summons.” After a unison prayer, Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 and John 1:1-14 were read. This was followed by the hymn “Eternal God Transcending Time.” This hymn was then woven into the celebration of clergy service milestones of 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 years. This was followed by the recognition of the 60th anniversary of the ordination of women, especially those who were first ordained in the Eastern PA Conference, and the 20th anniversary of the Order of Deacons, and those who were first ordained in the Eastern PA Conference. A video was then shown of some of the clergy who were retiring. In the video, the retirees answered several questions: “What do you miss in your first appointment?” and “What is the weirdest thing that happened to you in ministry?” and “what do you hope the next generation of pastors gets to experience in their ministries?” They then closed the video by reciting John Wesley’s Covenant Prayer. Each retiree was then brought forward for recognition, followed by the retirees “passing the mantle” onto those clergy being newly ordained. This was followed by the hymn “Great is Thy Faithfulness” and the closing benediction.

Conference Council of Ministries ReportRev. Dr. Christopher Kurien, Director of Connectional Ministries, explained that the Eastern PA Conference’s ministries include 35 board, agencies, and commissions. He then shared a sampling of what local churches in the conference are doing titled “It Works For My Church.” As part of this, David Piltz introduced a video about the Mission of Peace. This was followed by video presentations about a number of other ministries and programs. The videos were followed by a praise dance team.

Denman Evangelism AwardSuzette James presented the award for effective evangelism to clergy Mike Netznik of Allentown: Emanuel UMC, and lay person Tamara Wims of Midtown Parish United Methodist Church.

Kim Jefferson Evangelism AwardRev. Dr. Christopher Kurien presented this award for effective urban ministry work to Tindley Temple United Methodist Church and Arch Street United Methodist Church.

Discipleship Ministries AwardThe One Matters Ministry Award celebrates stories of transformation in the United Methodist Church. This year’s award was given to Manfredo Martinez to continue ministries to Latino ministries in Allentown.

After announcements, Bishop Peggy Johnson adjourned the session.




Ordination ServiceThe service began with the processional hymns “O For a Thousand Tongues,” and “Crown Him With Many Crowns.” Rev. Joe DiPaolo then welcomed everyone to Lancaster First UMC. After an opening prayer, the body was led through a litany titled “Recognition of Common Ministry and Reaffirmation of Baptism.” This was followed by the song “At the Font We Start Our Journey.” The persons who were to be commissioned, ordained, and recognized were then presented. The persons were: Diane A. Esposito (for commissioning toward Deacon), Angela Kellie Ebo, Bradley Matthew Leight, Nina Patton-Semerod and Julia Lynne Singleton (for commissioning toward Elder), Edward Locke Cameron, Gregory Scott Ellis, and Nichole Kelly Kleinberg (for ordination as Deacons), and Marcia Carol Lincoln-Heinz, Susan L. Moore, and Jared Earl Stine (for ordination as Elders).

After all the candidates were presented, Bishop Peggy Johnson led them through John Wesley’s “General Examination.” This was followed by the solo “Eternal Life.” Following the reading of Ephesians 2:12-22 and John 4:3-30, and 39-42, the body sang “Fill My Cup Lord.” Bishop Peggy Johnson then preached, with the title of her message being “Water Works.” Following the message, the body sang “We Are All One in Mission.” This was followed by the offering. After this, the various candidates were examined and commissioned, ordained, and recognized. During the hymn that followed, “In the Midst of New Dimensions,” anyone experiencing a call to ministry was invited to come forward to the altar, where members of the Board of Ordained Ministry were available to meet with them. The benediction was then pronounced, and the recessional hymns “Go to the World” and “Lead on, O King Eternal” were sung.

Saturday, June 18, 2016

7:30 a.m. Communion Service with the Order of St. Luke

8:45a.m. Gathering Music (Lima UMC Praise Team)

9:00 am Holy Conferencing

Bishop Peggy Johnson opened the session, and Youth Delegate Jose Tirado offered prayer. She then introduced Bishop Marcus Matthews, former episcopal leader of the Eastern PA Conference, and preacher for the memorial service.

Monitoring ReportBarbara Skarbowski began the report by explaining the mission of the Disabilities Committee, and thanked all those who helped compile the information for her report. She then noted the many positives that had been reported about this year’s sessions, especially related to access and disability concerns. She noted that cost continues to be an issue, however, making it hard for some people to attend. She reported that most people at the microphones spoke slowly, which was appreciated, but the pace of the proceedings seemed too fast at times. Speakers mostly reflected the diversity of the annual conference, she said, and most people enthusiastically engaged in the discussions on race during Bishop Lee’s teaching session. Most persons who spoke at the microphones were white males, however. The United Methodist Men’s report and the United Methodist Women’s report were diverse in what they displayed.

Resolution 2016-01Rev. Joe DiPaolo brought the resolution back to the floor. He then made the motion to commit the resolution back to the Eastern PA delegation for further refinement, in consultation with such persons as the Bishop recommends for purposes of inclusion, and resubmit the resolution to the 2017 Annual Conference session.

Episcopal Endorsement RecommendationRev. Dawn Taylor-Storm addressed the body to say that the Eastern PA Jurisdictional Delegation moves the following process:• Open the floor for nominations• Vote on each nominee separately by paper ballot• If the nominee receives a 2/3 vote, they will be endorsed by the EPA Annual Conference• The floor will then be reopened for nominations and the same process will be followed until nominations are closed.

After several questions, the body approved the motion. After the vote, Judy Ehninger reported that the delegation had interviewed two potential candidates for endorsement, but after three ballots there no decision was reached. Bishop Peggy Johnson then opened the floor for nominations. Nominations were made for, and accepted by, Rev. Dr. Jeff Raffauf, Rev.




Tracy Bass, and Rev. Dr. Irving Cotto. After each candidate had shared a brief biography, an individual ballot was taken for each candidate.

Nominations ReportDr. Carol Black presented the nominations report. She noted that the corrections that were submitted in the time between the original presentation of the report and this presentation had been made. She also had a number of additional changes and corrections displayed. With those changes noted, the body approved the nominations.

Resolution 2016-05Rev. Coleen Painter presented the resolution. She then made the motion that it be referred to the 2016 Adjourned Session of Annual Conference. The motion was approved.

Resolutions 2016 - 06, 2016 - 11, 2016 - 12, and 2016 - 21Rev. Dr. Anita Adams Powell, Rev. Gary Nicholson, and Rev. Irving Cotto presented resolutions for closure for Spring City United Methodist Church; West Penn: Immanuel United Methodist Church; William Penn United Methodist Church; and Park United Methodist Church of Freeland. After each resolution had been approved, a final prayer of thanksgiving for the ministries of these churches was offered. Then, as a candle was lit in remembrance of each church, persons in the body who had a link to each church were asked to stand.

African University ReportBishop Peggy Johnson reported that in 2015, the Eastern PA Conference paid 100% of its apportionment asking for Africa University. A love offering was then taken for a sports complex at Africa University in honor of Bishop Marcus Matthews. This was followed by a video about the university.

Memorial Service The Service began with the songs “Heroes,” and “Worth It All,” and “You Can Make It.” This was followed by “the Words of Grace,” and the opening hymn “Come, Let Us Join Our Friends Above.” After a unison prayer, Revelation 22:1-5 was read, and the song “When We Are Living” was sung. After Romans 8:31-39 was read, Bishop Marcus Matthews, former episcopal leader of the Eastern PA Conference, delivered the message, titled “Nor Death nor Life.” The message was followed by a Litany of Remembrance, and a celebration of the lives of those who had entered the Church Triumphant. As their names were read, family members and friends participated in a liturgical act of remembrance and honor that added the sand of individual containers into a common vase. The service then closed with a final prayer and the hymn “We’ll Understand It Better By and By.”

The body was then dismissed for lunch.

1:30 p.m. Gathering Music (Lima UMC Praise Team)


Bishop Peggy Johnson called the body back into session, and asked Youth Delegate Matthew Lynch to pray.

Guest IntroductionsBishop Peggy Johnson introduced Dr. Carol Lytch, President of Lancaster Theological Seminary. Dr. Lytch then brought greetings from the seminary, sharing about the various degree programs, and the fact that Lancaster has students from 19 different denominations. Bishop Johnson then introduced Dai Morgan, Coordinator of United Methodist Advocacy in Pennsylvania. He explained how he helps United Methodists advocate the legislature for justice in our state.

Episcopal Endorsement Ballot #1 ResultsRev. Lloyd Speer read the results of the 1st episcopal endorsement ballot:Rev. Jeff Raffauf: 376 Yes, 196 No, 5 Invalid; totaling 577 votes, and reaching 65.2%Rev. Tracy Bass: 307 Yes, 288 No, 6 Invalid; totaling 601 votes, and reaching 51.1%Rev. Irving Cotto: 378 Yes, 214 No, 6 Invalid; totaling 598 votes, and reaching 63.2%

The vote did not result in anyone being endorsed since 2/3 approval was required.

A motion was made to lower the threshold to 60% to endorse a candidate. The motion was not approved.




Additional persons were then nominated, some of whom declined, with Rev. Dr. Jeff Raffauf, Rev. Tracy Bass, and Rev. Dr. Irving Cotto accepting the nomination. A motion to close nominations was then made, and it was approved. A ballot was then taken individually for each person. After the ballot, a motion was made to close balloting for episcopal endorsement. The motion was approved.

Youth ReportDavid Piltz led youth from the conference in presenting information about a number of activities and programs that occurred in the past year. They promoted the 2017 youth rally, which will be April 22, 2017. A video was then presented that showed youth speaking at General Conference, addressing issues with young people.

Eastern PA Scholarship OfferingLenora Thompson explained that the EPC Scholarship Committee oversees the distribution of scholarship funds to students in our annual conference. Those funds come from the generous giving of the members of the Eastern PA Conference. Lenora then explained that we are currently providing scholarships to 15 students. Last year, $7,000 was collected. This year’s goal is to exceed that amount. The offering was then taken.

Camp and Retreat Ministry ReportRev. Sally Ott, Coordinator of the Camp and Retreat Ministry, presented a report on the ways that lives are changed through the various ministries they coordinate. A video was then shown that highlighted the work of each of the different conference camps. This was followed by a presentation on the Walk to Emmaus and Chrysallis.

Resolution 2016-16 Rev. Andrea Brown moved the adoption of the resolution. After speaking to the resolution, the body voted to approve the resolution.

Resolution 2016-18Rev. David Krueger presented the resolution. After Rev. Krueger had spoken to the resolution, a motion was made to postpone it indefinitely. The motion to postpone was not approved. After more discussion, Rev. Joe DiPaolo made a motion to “commit the resolution to the bishop’s office with the request that our bishop convene a process parallel to that recently entrusted to the Council of Bishops for the General Church, to discern a path by which we in the EPA can maintain our unity.” After more discussion, an amendment was made to the motion by Rev. Robin Hynicka that this process occur by establishing “a commission that is inclusive of the full diversity of the Eastern PA Conference,” and that the bishop report back by November of 2017. The amendment to the motion was approved. Then the motion to commit the resolution to the bishop’s office was approved.

Resolution 2016-14Rev. Sukja Bang presented the resolution, noting that the scripture reference should not be to John 4, but Matthew 25:38-40. After speaking to it, Rev. John Longmire presented a substitute resolution with the intent to table the resolution. After more discussion, the substitute motion to table the resolution was approved.

Episcopal Endorsement Ballot #2 ResultsRev. Lloyd Speer read the results of the 2nd episcopal endorsement ballot:Rev. Jeff Raffauf: 371 Yes, 182 No, 11 Invalid; totaling 564 votes, and reaching 65.78%Rev. Tracy Bass: 268 Yes, 292 No, 2 Invalid; totaling 562 votes, and reaching 47.68%Rev. Irving Cotto: 321 Yes, 237 No, 1 Invalid; totaling 559 votes, and reaching 57.42%

The vote did not result in anyone being endorsed, since 2/3 approval was required.

Rev. Jim Anderman made a motion to suspend the rules for the purpose of dealing with Resolution 2016-15 and Resolution 2015-17 together. After discussion, the motion to suspend the rules was not approved.

A number of questions were then asked about the endorsement balloting process, the closing of the ballot for endorsement, and whether the ballot could be reopened. An issue was also raised about blank balloting cards, and it was asked if any blank cards were counted as invalid ballots, thereby skewing the results. The Judge of Elections, Ruth Daugherty, was asked to review the ballots to see if there were blank cards counted as part of the invalid votes.




Resolution 2016-15Rev. Lydia Munoz presented the resolution. This was followed by discussion and questions, including the correction that the scripture listed in the resolution is not from John 4, but Matthew 25:38-40. A motion to table was made, and the body approved tabling the resolution.

Judge of Elections ReportRuth Daughtery reported that she reviewed the invalid ballots. Out of the 11 invalid ballots for Rev. Dr. Jeff Raffauf, for example, there were four blank cards. If they were eliminated, it would take the total number of votes to 560, resulting in a percentage of 66.25% for the yes votes, so even with those votes being eliminated, there was no election. Similar results were tabulated for the votes cast for Rev. Bass and Rev. Dr. Cotto.

Resolution 2016-17Rev. Herb Snyder presented the resolution. He then invited persons to extend hospitality to LGBTQ persons, no matter what their theological position is on the issue.

A motion was made to table the motion, but it was not approved. After more discussion a motion was made to amend the motion, and then an amendment to the amendment was made. Both were approved by the body. A final amendment was offered, but after discussion it was not approved. The amended resolution was then approved.

Resolution 2016-09Rev. Jim Wilkin presented the resolution on behalf of the Safe Sanctuary Committee. He also added a paragraph to the printed resolution, showing the additional language on the video screens. After doing so, Rev. Wilkin explained that most of the changes to the resolution had to do with the changing nature of state law on these issues. The new policy, therefore, no longer quotes state law, but merely refers people to its requirements at various points. That way, our policy does not need to change each time laws regarding child protection are amended. After discussion and questions, several amendments were approved. Because of a lack of time, the resolution was then tabled to the 2016 Adjourned Session of Annual Conference.

Resolution 2016-10A motion was made to table the resolution to the 2016 Adjourned Session of Annual Conference. The resolution was approved.

Certified Lay Minister ProgramJudy Ehninger spoke briefly about the CLM program, and stated that there were 11 graduates this year. She also then thanked all the clergy who served as instructors, and asked the CLM graduates to join her at the podium.

The motion was then made by Rev. Lloyd Speer to adjourn the 229th session of Annual Conference.

Offerings• EPC Scholarship Offering: $6,800.00• Fulfilling the Covenant: $205.00• Ordination Offering: $1,662.00• Deacon Service Project: 215 kits, with 140 more being made after conference, and 8 churches taking supplies to make

even more.

Secretarial StaffThese minutes, with the processing of amendments offered from the floor, as well as the counting of votes at various points in the proceedings, would not have been possible without the help of the following persons: Carlotta Madison, Tracy, Duncan, Narie Grayson, Monica Guepet, Samuel Kofi Ashley, John Lewis Sr., Dorry Newcomer, Mark Terry, and Stephen Speer.



- 449 - Certificate of Ordination

Certificate of Ordination

This certifies that on June 17, 2016, at Lancaster: First UMC, Lancaster, PA, in accordance with the action of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference and the Ordinal of The United Methodist Church, I ordain as

EldersMarcia Carol Lincoln-Heinz

Susan L. MooreJared Earl Stine

DeaconsEdward Locke Cameron

Gregory Scott EllisNicole Kelley Kleinberg

This certifies that on June 17, 2016, at Lancaster: First UMC, Lancaster, PA, in accordance with the action of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference and the Ordinal of The United Methodist Church, I recognize as

EldersAngela Kellie Ebo

Bradley Matthew LeightNina Patton-SemerodJulia Lynne Singleton

DeaconDiana A. Esposito

Peggy A. JohnsonBishop



- 450 -2016 Adjourned Session Proceedings

230th Adjourned Session of Annual Conference Proceedings

Eastern Pennsylvania Conferenceof The United Methodist Church

October 1, 2016Bethany United Methodist Church

1208 Brookside Road, Allentown, PA 18106

8:30 a.m. Registration

9:00 a.m. Adjourned Session

Word of WelcomeRev. James Brashear welcomed the body to Bethany UMC. He then led the body in acknowledgement of Bishop Johnson having been appointed back to the Eastern PA Conference for a third quadrennium.

Opening WorshipWorship began with the body singing “Great is Thy Faithfulness.” Rev. Robert Johnson then read 2 Corinthians 6:13, and shared a message on church survival. This was followed by an offering to supply scholarships for the required conference Changing Racism workshops. $3,199.41 was received. The worship time then ended with the singing of another hymn.

Episcopal WelcomeRev. Dawn Taylor-Storm and Judy Ehninger officially welcomed Bishop Peggy Johnson, and her husband Rev. Michael Johnson, back to the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference. Her appointment here for a third quadrennium is the first time this has happened since Bishop Fred Corson’s time in the early 1960’s, and also a first in the Northeast Jurisdiction since the establishment of the United Methodist Church.

Welcome and IntroductionsBishop Peggy Johnson greeted the body. She introduced those at the presiding table: David Koch, (Conference Lay Leader), Rev. Anita Powell (Central District Superintendent, and Dean of the Cabinet), Rev. Lloyd Speer (Conference Secretary), and Jose Tirado (Youth Delegate). Bishop Johnson then led the body in an opening prayer, using a prayer written by Julian of Norwich.

Adoption of the AgendaBishop Peggy Johnson called on Rev. Lloyd Speer, Conference Secretary, to present the agenda. It had been printed in the Adjourned Session packet. It was approved.

Rules of OrderRev. Lloyd Speer presented the Rules of Order that had been printed in the Adjourned Session packet. He moved their adoption. The Rules of Order were approved.

Organizational and Procedural MotionRev. Lloyd Speer defined the area from within which voting should take place, and made a motion to establish that area as the bar of the conference. The motion was approved.

Resolution 2016-05Barry Rose presented the resolution for a comprehensive funding plan for pension and benefit obligations on behalf of the Board of Pensions. It was approved.

Resolution 2016-22Rev. Anita Powell presented the resolution to reduce the number of districts in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference from 6 to 4 on behalf of the cabinet. In doing so, she explained that the resolution addresses the reality that costs need to be reduced to meet current levels of income, and this is the best method of achieving that end without impacting ministries. She then introduced Irene Dickerson, chairperson of the Conference Council on Finance and Administration, and Jim Cruickshank, Conference treasurer, who presented the details of the plan.



- 451 - 2016 Adjourned Session Proceedings

After significant discussion, and lament that the conference needed to look at taking such action, the resolution was approved.

2017 Budget ProposalWith the approval of the reduction of districts proposed in Resolution 2016-22, Irene Dickerson, chairperson of the Conference Council on Finance and Administration, and Jim Cruickshank, Conference treasurer, presented the 2017 Budget. It was approved.

Resolution 2016-09Rev. James Wilkin presented the resolution to adopt a revised Safe Sanctuaries Policy on behalf of the Safe Sanctuaries Committee. After discussion, and amendment, the resolution was approved.

Resolution 2016-10Rev. James Wilkin presented the resolution to adopt a Computer Network and Internet Policy on behalf of the Safe Sanctuaries Committee and the Communications Ministry Team. He then asked Rev. John Bletsch to speak to the resolution, as it was the work of the Communications Ministry Team. After discussion, and amendment, the resolution was approved.

Resolution 2016-22Michelle Whittaker presented the resolution to evaluate fair voting methods. After discussion, and amendment, the resolution was approved.

The motion was then made by Rev. Lloyd Speer to adjourn the 230th Adjourned Session of Annual Conference.



- 452 -Business of the Annual Conference

Business of the Annual Conference

Report as Approved at the Clergy Session on May 16, 2016

PART I - ORGANIZATION AND GENERAL BUSINESS

1) Who are elected for the quadrennium (¶¶603.7, 619)? Secretary?

The Rev. Dr. Lloyd F. Speer, III501 Wistar Road, Fairless Hills, PA 19030-4103

(215) [email protected]

Treasurer?Mr. James E. Cruickshank 6 Weatherwood Lane, Wayne, PA 19087


2) Is the Annual Conference incorporated (¶603.1)?Yes

3) Bonding and auditing:

a) What officers handling funds of the conference have been bonded and in what amounts (¶¶618, 2511)?Name Position Amount BondedTreasurer and related staff are bonded by the General Council on Finance and Administration

$1,000,000.00

b) Have the books of said officers been audited (¶¶617,2511)? Yes

4) What agencies have been appointed or elected?a) Who have been elected chairpersons for the mandated structures listed?Council on Finance and Administration ¶611

Chairperson, Mrs. Irene Dickinson2075 Allentown Road, Hatfield, PA 19440


Board of Ordained Ministry ¶635Chairperson, Rev. Gary D. Knerr203 Providence Hill Road, Coatesville, PA 19320


Board of Pensions ¶639President, Mr. Barry Rose221 Washington Lane, Ft. Washington, PA 19034


Board of Trustees ¶2512Chairperson, Mr. William Thresher1407 Linden Street, Allentown, PA 18102


Committee on Episcopacy ¶637Chairperson, Mr. Kevin G. Goodwin440 Haystack Drive, Newark, DE 19711-8316




- 453 - Business of the Annual Conference

Administrative Review Committee ¶636Chairperson, Rev. James E. Brashear6079 Timberknoll Drive, Macungie, PA 18062


b) Indicate the name of the agency (or agencies) and the chairperson(s) in your annual conference, which is (are) responsible for the functions related to each of the following general church agencies (¶610.1):

Church and Society Work Team - General Board of Church and SocietyChairperson, Miss Barbara E. Drake15 Yale Road, Havertown, PA 19083


Annual Conference Missions - General Board of Global MinistriesChairperson, Rev. David J. Davis103 Milbury Road, Coatesville, PA 19320

(610) 384-7639 [email protected]

Higher Education and Campus Ministry - Board of Higher Education and Campus MinistryChairperson, Rev. Jason Perkowski602 Hedgerow Lane, Lancaster, PA 17601


Commission on Archives and History - General Commission on Archives and HistoryChairperson, Rev. R. Mark Young230 Kennedy Drive, Coatesville, PA 19320


Christian Unity and Ecumenical Concerns - General Commission on Christian Unity & Inter-religious ConcernsChairperson, Miss Barbara E. Drake15 Yale Road, Havertown, PA 19083


Commission on Religion and Race - General Commission on Religion and RaceCo-Chairperson, Mrs. Sara Bergstresser30 Nutt Road, Apt. AJ, Phoenixville, PA 19460Co-Chairperson, Rev. Navin Satyavrata136 Park Avenue, Bangor, PA 18013

(484) [email protected](610) 588-4672 [email protected]

Commission on the Status and Role of Women - General Commission on the Status and Role of WomenChairperson, Mrs. Marilyn A. Wilt50 Barren Road, Media, PA 19063


Communications Ministry Team - United Methodist CommunicationsChairperson, Rev. John Bletsch600 Walker Road, Wayne, PA 19087

(610) 688-7055

c) Indicate the conference agencies and chairpersons which have responsibilities for the following functions:Church and Society Work Team, Criminal Justice and Mercy Ministries ¶657

Chairperson, Miss Barbara E. Drake15 Yale Road, Havertown, PA 19083


Committee on Disability Concerns - Disability Concerns ¶653Chairperson, Mrs. Barbara A. Skarbowski63 Holly Drive, Lancaster, PA 17603





Commission on Equitable Compensation - Equitable Compensation ¶625Chairperson, Rev. Louis Hornberger1925 Gring Drive, Wyomissing, PA 19610


Board of Lay Ministry - Laity ¶631

Chairperson, Mr. David Koch532 Westfield Drive, Exton, PA 19341


Committee on Native American Ministries - Native American Ministry ¶645Chairperson, Ms. Barbara Christy770 Starr Street, Phoenixville, PA 19460


Small Membership Church (¶645)?

d) Indicate the president or equivalent for the following organizations:Conference United Methodist Women ¶647

President, Mrs. Gladys B. Hubbard717 Edgewood Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406


Conference United Methodist Men ¶648President, Mr. Clifton Hubbard717 Edgewood Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406


Conference Council on Youth Ministry ¶649Chairperson - TBD

Conference Council on Young Adult Ministry ¶650Chairperson, Mr. Aaron Joseph Smith4 Linden Road, Lebanon, PA 17042


e) Have persons been elected for the following district boards and committees? Answer yes or no.District Boards of Church Location and Building (¶2518)? Yes

Committees on District Superintendency (¶669)? YesDistrict Committees on Ordained Ministry (¶666)? Yes

f) What other councils, boards, commissions, or committees have been appointed or elected in the annual

conference? (See 2015 Journal for Chairperson, Address, Phone Number, and Email)Board of Discipleship; Board of Evangelism; Camp and Retreat Ministry Board; Children’s Ministry; Communications Ministry Team; Conference Sessions, Commission on; Congregational Development Team; Connectional Table; Disaster Relief; Education Society, Conference; EPA Congo Partnership; EPA Rapid Response Team on Immigration; Episcopal Residence Committee; Group Health Insurance Committee; Health and Healing, Council on; Healing the Wounds of Racism Core Team; Human Resources (Personnel) Committee; I-Care Team; Incapacity, Joint Committee on; Investment Committee; Latino Plan and Ministries, Conference Commission on; Loan Fund Board; Marital Separation and Divorce, Joint Committee on; Metro Ministries, Inc.; Mid-Atlantic United Methodist Foundation; Native American Ministries, Committee on; Nominations, Committee on; Older Adult Ministries, Council on; Pastoral Care Committee; Pennsylvanians Concerned about Alcohol Problems; Prison Ministries and Restorative Justice; Relations Committee, Conference; Safe Sanctuaries; Scholarship Committee; Urban and Global Ministries, Commission on; Volunteers in Mission




5) Have the secretaries, treasurers and statisticians kept their respective data in accordance to the prescribed formats (¶606.8)?

Yes

6) What is the report of the statistician? See Statistics in the Journal

7) What is the report of the treasurer? See report in the Journal

8) What are the reports of the district superintendents as to the status of the work within their districts?None

9) What is the schedule of minimum base compensation for pastors for the ensuing year? (¶¶342, 625.3)

a) Elder and Deacons in full connection $41,106b) Commissioned toward Deacons and Elders under full-time post-seminary appointments? $38,964c) Associate Members? $38,148d) Full-time Local Pastors $36,108

10) What amount has been apportioned to the pastoral charges within the conference to be raised for the support of the district superintendents for the ensuing year (¶614.1a)?

$1,106,283

11) What amount has been apportioned to the pastoral charges within the conference to be raised for the support of the pension and benefit programs of the conference for the ensuing year (¶¶614.1d, 1507)?

a. Pension $4,147,505b. Health Insurance $5,363,475

c. What are the apportionments to this conference for the ensuing year?

1. World Service Fund? $1,232,4962. Ministerial Education Fund? $317,3473. Black College Fund? $168,7914. Africa University Fund? $37,7695. Episcopal Fund? $369,6536. General Administration Fund $148,7697. Interdenominational Cooperation Fund? $33,108

12) If the annual conference apportions to the local church fund that combines two or more general apportioned funds with one another, or that combine one or more general apportioned funds with funds other than a general apportioned fund, list below for each combined fund: the name and amount of each general fund included in the apportionment and the percentage for the combined fund total that corresponds to each general fund apportionment (¶¶614.3d. 615.4). None

13) Conference and district lay leaders (¶¶603.9, 659):a) Conference Lay Leader?

Mr. David L. Koch, SPHR 532 Westfield DriveExton, PA 19341

[email protected]




b) Associate Conference Lay Leaders?Ms. Suzette James 2317 Springview Road

East Norriton, PA [email protected]

c) District and Associate District Lay Leaders?i) CE DISTRICT:

DLL Mr. John Paylor1507 Maple Avenue, Paoli, PA 19301

[email protected]

ALL Mr. Aubrey Bates243 Bertolet School Road, Spring City, PA 19475

[email protected]

ALL Mr. Frank Cebular2318 Bradley Way, Pottstown, PA 19464

[email protected]

ALL Ms. Michelle Daniels4106 Lynn Avenue, Reading, PA 19606

[email protected]

ALL Ms. Truzella Jacobs3025 N 8th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19133

[email protected]

ALL Mrs. Nancy Langerfeld4035 Fairway Road, Lafayette Hill, PA 19444

[email protected]

ALL Mr. Michael McManus301 Midland Avenue, Wayne, PA 19087

[email protected]

ALL Ms. Barbara Michael788 Mt. Pleasant Road, Pottstown, PA 19465

[email protected]

ALL Mrs. Danette Wright-Lee10 Cypress Point Court, Blackwood, NJ 08012

[email protected]

ii) EA DISTRICT:DLL Ms. Karen Fisher

43 Colonial Drive, Newtown, PA [email protected]

ALL Ms. Elizabeth Gruenbaum1921 Park Avenue, Bensalem, PA 19020

[email protected]

ALL Mrs. Frances Townsend-Coleman1845 W Nedro Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19141

[email protected]

iii) NE DISTRICT:Co-DLL Mr. Ken Ghorm

412 N. Fenwick Street, Allentown, PA [email protected]

Co-DLL Ms. Patricia Wilson479 Fish Hill Road, PO Box 370, Tannersville, PA 18372

[email protected]

iv) NW DISTRICT:DLL Mr. Lee Smedley

622 E Queen Street, Annville, PA [email protected]

ALL Ms. Debra Forney217 N 18th Street, Pottsville, PA 17901-2015

[email protected]

ALL Mr. Rob Ensinger105 Heritage Lane, Selinsgrove, PA 17870

[email protected]




v) SE DISTRICT:Co-DLL Ms. Jennifer Laffertey

315 Municipal Drive, Thorndale, PA [email protected]

Co-DLL Mr. William P. Thompson100 N Lynn Boulevard, Upper Darby, PA 19082

[email protected]

vi) SW DISTRICT:DLL Ms. Sue Grimm Mattox

129 Bethesda Church Road West, Holtwood, PA [email protected]

14) What local churches have been: (Indicate District)a) Organized or continued as New Church Starts or Mission Congregations (¶259, 1-4, continue to list congregations

here until listed in questions 14.c, d, or e) New Church Start (¶259, 1-4)

Name District

Northstar CE

La Hermosa, Easton NE

Ember Faith Community SW

b) Satellite congregations (¶259.5-10, continue to list here until in questions 14.c, d, or e) Name DistrictNone

c) Chartered Name District Date CharteredNone

d) Merged (¶¶2546, 2547) (1) United Methodist with United Methodist

Name of 1st Church Name of 2nd Church Name of Merged ChurchMorgantown UMC Elverson UMC Elverson UMC (5/22/16)Lampeter Living Waters LampeterPhila.: St. Luke’s Restoration Center

Phila.: St. Barnabas-Bethsaida

Phila.: St. Barnabas-Bethsaida/St. Luke’s (7/1/15)

(2) Other mergers (indicate denomination) Name of 1st Church Name of 2nd Church Name of Merged ChurchNone

e) Discontinued or abandoned (¶¶229, 341.2, 2549) State which for each church listed)

(1) New Church Start (¶259.2,3) Phila.: Starting Point (Dec. 31, 2015)

(2) Mission Congregation (¶259.1a) None

(3) Satellite Congregation Wescosville: Bethany and Allentown: Emmanuel as of 7/1/2016




(4) Chartered Local Church (¶259.5)Name District StatusWest Penn: Immanuel NW DiscontinuedWilliam Penn NW DiscontinuedFreeland: Park NE DiscontinuedSpring City CE Discontinued

f) Relocated and to what address?

None

(g) Changed name of church? (Example: “First” to “Trinity”)Lancaster: El Redentor and Lancaster: St. Paul's became Lancaster: Nueva Creacion SW 4/21/15

(h) Transferred this year into this conference from other United Methodist conference(s) and with what Membership (¶¶41, 260)?

None

(i) What cooperative parishes in structured forms have been established? (¶206.b)

None

j) What other changes have taken place in the list of churches?

None

15. Are there Ecumenical Shared Ministries in the conference? (¶208) a. Federated Church

Name District Other Denomination(s)None

b. Union Church

Name District Other Denomination(s)Ashland: First UMC/Presby NW Presbyterian USA

c. Merged Church

None d. Yoked Parish

None

16. What changes have been made in district and charge lines? None




PART II - PERTAINING TO ORDAINED AND LICENSED CLERGY

(Note: A (v) notation following a question in this section signifies that the action or election requires a majority vote of the clergy session of the annual conference. If an action requires more than a simple majority, the notation (v 2/3) or (v 3/4) signifies that a two-thirds or three-fourths majority vote is required. Indicate credential of persons in Part II: FD, FE, PD, PE, and AM when requested.)

17. Are all the clergy members of the conference blameless in their life and official administration (¶¶604.4, 605.6)? Rev. Dr. Anita Powell, Dean of the Cabinet18. Who constitute:

a) The Administrative Review Committee (¶636)? (v)Three Clergy in Full Connection James E. Brashear

Amy SmithCarlotta Madison

Two Clergy Alternates in Full Connection Quentin WallaceHerbert Coe

b) The Conference Relations Committee of the Board of Ordained Ministry (¶635.1d)?Rev. Gary D. Knerr (Chair) Mr. George HollichRev. Kofi Ashley Rev. Zabdiel KhanRev. DJ Choi Rev. Stephanie Brown Wilson

c) The Committee on Investigations:Clergy : Rev. Tom Ebersole

Rev. David William BrownRev. Truman Brooks

Clergy Alternates: Rev. James HeathRev. Helen AdamsRev. Lydia Munoz

Laity: John PaylorJulie PerkowskiLenora Thompson

Lay Alternates: Lawrence LeeLinda SeyboldKaren Todd

19. Who are the certified candidates (¶ ¶ 310, 313, 314) a) Who are currently certified as candidates for ordained or licensed ministry?

NameMary Beth Davis

DistrictSE

Date Certified04/04/16

James Duckett EA 09/22/15Jeremy Graeff SW 09/01/15Derrick Gutierrez SW 09/01/15Chris Hardy NE 12/05/14Carl Houston CE 03/15/16Greg Impink SW 02/02/16Frank E. Johnston, Jr. CE 04/28/15John Krimmel EA 01/26/16Melaina Trice Marshall CE 09/29/15Francis Mawusi CE 01/26/16Myra Maxwell CE 04/21/15Joanne Miles CE 03/15/16Lyle Neal SW 10/06/15Debra Neild CE 02/18/14Tamie Scalise CE 02/16/16Aaron Smith NW 04/13/16Towanda Tilson CE 10/14/14




Cherrill Wilson CE 11/17/15Kyle Wyman CE 01/15/13Adhurim Xhemajli NW 05/11/16

b) Who have had their candidacy for ordained or licensed ministry accepted by a District Committee on Ordained Ministry in another annual conference? (Include name of accepting conference.)

Name Receiving Conference Date Originally Certified

Date Accepted by District in Other Conference

Sharmune Burgess West VirginiaCynthia Hall Peninsula-Delaware 06/05/99 07/01/16

c) Who have been discontinued as certified candidates for licensed or ordained ministry?

Name District Date Certified Date DiscontinuedNone

20. Who have completed the studies for the license as a local pastor, are approved, but are not now appointed? (¶315 —Indicate for each person the year the license was approved.):

Name District Year Last LicensedOlivet Brown SE 2014Denise Founds NW 2014Dorris McCoy CE 2014Christiane Odyniec McLaughlin SW 2012Shellie Sterner NW 2014

21. Who are approved and appointed as: (Indicate for each person the first year the license was awarded. Indicate what progress each has made in the course of study or the name of the seminary in which they are enrolled. Indicate with an asterisk those who have completed the five year course of study or the M.Div. (¶319.4)? PLEASE NOTE: Persons on this list must receive an episcopal appointment. (v)

a) Full-time local pastors? (¶318.1)

Name First Year License Awarded

Years Completed with Course of Study

Beverly Andrews 02/01/02 *Jose Ayala 04/27/05 0Sharon Barley 05/06/14 M.Div.Mark Beideman 07/01/96 *Gene K. Boyer 07/01/94 M.Div.Jim Cavallero 07/01/07 Lancaster SeminaryMark Dricker ** 07/07/92 *Thomas Grubbs 03/11/08 M.Div.Michael S. Netznik 03/02/85 *Elena Ortiz 11/03/00 *Sean J. Rajnic ** 10/05/10 *Lawrence E. Richard 06/01/98 *Esdras Seda ** 01/01/93 Palmer SeminaryJohn Smith 07/01/01 M.Div.Robert A. Stippich 07/01/00 M.Div.Willis Ray Voran, Jr. 05/12/09 M.Div.John Wallace ** 07/01/94 M.Div.Laura Welch 06/05/99 *

** Approved for Full Time, but serving Part Time




b) Part-time local pastors? (¶318.2) (fraction of full-time in one-quarter increments)

NameFirst Year License Awarded

Fraction of full time to be served

Years Completed with Course of Study

David Alderson 07/01/97 ¾ Evangelical Sem.Kevin Babcock 05/05/12 ½ M.Div.Cindy Babiak 04/09/11 ½ Palmer SeminaryDonald Boyd 05/04/12 ½ 0Keith Buckbee 06/03/14 ½ Evangelical SeminaryMichael Byrd 10/09/12 ¾ 1st yearRalph Cain 07/01/08 ½ 3rd yearEric Carr 07/01/15 ½ Palmer SeminaryCarlos Carrero 07/01/07 ¾ 1st yearEric Chelton 11/11/14 ¼ 1st yearSandra Cislo 07/01/97 ½ *Jesse A. Coale 07/01/98 ½ D.Min.Terry Cooney 11/02/09 ½ Evangelical SeminaryLilian Cotto 03/10/09 ¾ Lat. Amer. Bibl. URobert A. Crane 02/04/92 Ext. Min. M.Div.Shirley Daddario 05/12/09 ½ 3rd yearJacqueline Daniszewski 01/28/10 ¼ 4th yearMary Beth Davis 05/01/16 ½ 1st yearGary Dimovitz ¼ 0Suzette Douglas-Brown 11/02/13 ¼ 1st yearJames Duckett 09/22/15 ¼ 0Sterling Eaton 10/06/13 ½ 1st yearKen Edwards 10/08/12Charles Englehart 07/01/11 ½ 1st yearGene Errickson 10/01/11 ½ 1st yearAmy Evans 07/01/16 ½ Moravian SeminaryJoe Forwood 07/01/14 ¼ 1st yearElisandra Garcia 05/11/11 ½ M.Div.Nancy A. Gehres 06/15/02 ¼ *Linda W. George 07/01/00 ¼ *Todd Glasmire 03/14/06 ¾ Evangelical Sem.Patricia Goshert 04/16/13 ½ 1st yearJoseph Grasser 08/03/01 ¾ *Narie L. Grayson 07/01/11 ½ M.Div.Derrick Gutierrez 09/01/15 ¼ 0Cheryl Lynn Hackman 07/01/16 ¾ M.Div.Gregory Hafer 07/01/13 ¼ 1st yearChris Hardy 07/01/15 ½ M.Div.Linda Harnish 03/17/15 ¾ 0Lorraine Heckman 07/01/02 ¼ M.Div.Daniel Hepner 08/13/06 ¼ Evangelical Sem.Douglas Hill 12/04/12 ¾ Lancaster Sem.Zachary Hopple 12/08/10 ¾ Evangelical Sem.Greg Impink 07/01/16 ¾ Palmer SeminaryJames Janotti 04/13/11 ¼ 2nd yearEva Johnson 07/01/04 ½ 3rd yearShayla Johnson 06/01/16 ½ Palmer Seminary




William Jolly 07/01/10 ½ 0Jeffrey Kapp 07/01/13 ¾ Evangelical Sem.Larry Kipp 06/03/14David C. Krause, Sr. 07/01/06 ½ 2nd yearJohn T. Krimmel, Sr. 02/04/16 ¼ 1st yearCraig D. Laubach 07/01/05 ¼ 4th yearKimberly Leskowich 08/29/11 ¼ 3rd yearShawn Lochinger 03/18/15 ¼ Evangelical Sem.Nancy Ludwig 07/01/07 ¾ 4th yearIra Lydic 02/24/04 ¾ M.Div.Rose M. Marquardt 02/24/04 ½ 4th yearJoseph Martin 07/01/14 ¾ 1st yearBrunilda Martinez 07/01/07 ¾ Latin Am Bibl Un.William McNeal 09/21/09 ¾ 2nd yearMichael S. Miller 04/06/02 ½ 3rd yearPaul Miller 07/01/14 ¾ Evangelical Sem.Paul Milligan 07/01/14 ¼ Evangelical Sem.Lyle Neal 10/06/15 ½ 0John Neider 05/09/11 ¾ 2nd yearBruce Nobel 07/01/83 ½ M.Div.Marilyn Nolte 03/18/08 ¼ M.Div.Dale Oplinger 05/23/13 ¼ Evangelical Sem.William Parrish 07/01/11 ½ 1st yearSharon Paul 07/01/04 ¼ 3rd yearRobert Petro 11/11/14 ¾ 1st yearBeverly Petrovich 07/01/05 ¾ 3rd yearLaurie Pfahler 07/01/15 ¾ M.Div.Herbert Phillips 01/01/08 ¼ 0Jamie Pietsch 04/01/14 ¼ 1st yearSteven Pittman 06/16/09 ½ M.DivDenise Plaugher 09/01/13 ½ 1st yearVicki L. Pry 07/01/06 ¾ 4th yearJennifer Randenbush 11/01/14 ¼ M.Div.Peggy Reed 08/11/14 ¼ 0Bill Ritzenthaler 11/02/09 ¾ 2nd yearMolly Dee Rounsley 05/02/15 ½ 2nd yearDavid G. Ryan 09/18/12 ½ CollegeKurt W. Schenk 01/01/01 ¾ 4th yearJacquelyn Sheely 10/11/02 ½ 5th yearWhymon Simmons 07/01/98 ½ 4th yearBonny D. Smith 12/13/07 Ext. Min. 1st yearJackie A. Stewart 07/01/00 ½ Palmer Sem.Timothy Stewart 09/21/10 ¼ 3rd yearCharles D. Thomas 09/01/11 ½ 2nd yearJose Tirado 06/03/15 ¼ 1st yearCheryl Trent 10/13/14 ¾ MREMargaret Trice 07/01/15 ½ M.Div.Edward A. Unangst 07/01/99 ¾ *Edward VanArsdale 08/01/15 ½ 0Evodia Villalva 05/13/03 ¾ 2nd year




Patrick Welch 11/01/15 ½ 0Thomas Weeple 07/01/96 ¼ *Carlene Wolf 04/29/14 ½ 0Christopher Wollyung 07/01/94 ¾ *Susan A. Wollyung 02/24/04 ½ *Bonnie Yeager 06/28/93 ½ *Cheryl Zegers 04/01/04 ¼ M.Div.

* Completed Course of Study

c) Students from other annual conferences or denominations serving as local pastors and enrolled in a school of theology listed by the University Senate (¶318.3, ,4)?

Name First Year License Awarded

Seminary Home Conference

None

d) Students who have been certified as candidates in your annual conference and are serving as local pastors in another annual conference while enrolled in a school of theology listed by the University Senate (¶318.3)

Name First Year License Awarded Years Completed in Course of Study

None

e) Persons serving as local pastors while seeking readmission to conference membership (¶¶366.4, 367, 369.3)? (If not in this conference indicate name of conference where serving.)

Name Years Completed in Course of StudyNone

22. Who have been discontinued as local pastors (¶320.1)?Name Date discontinuedR. B. Deibler 07/01/16William Frick 07/01/16Jong Lee 03/20/16

23. Who have been reinstated as local pastors (¶320.4)?

Name Years Completed in Course of StudyHerbert Phillips 0

24. What ordained ministers or provisional members from other Annual Conferences or Methodist denominations are approved for appointment in the Annual Conference while retaining their conference or denominational membership (¶¶331.8, 346.1)? (List alphabetically; indicate Annual Conference or denomination where membership is held. Indicate credential.) a) Annual Conferences

Name Clergy Status Home Conference

James Charles Bongard FE Peninsula-DelawareKaren Bongard FE Peninsula-DelawareByung Woo Cho FE Upper New YorkJonette Gay FE Northwest TexasGarfield Greene RE Greater New JerseyFrank Moore RE IndianaEarl Roberts RE SusquehannaJeremias Rojas FE Peninsula-DelawarePhillip Sabas RE SusquehannaDarryl Stephens FD Central Texas




b) Other Methodist Denominations

Name Clergy Status Denomination

Stacey Jones-Robinson FE African Methodist Episcopal ChurchDuksin Kim FE Korean Methodist ChurchJoong Hyuck Kim FE Korean Methodist Church

25. What clergy in good standing in other Christian denominations have been approved to serve appointments or ecumenical ministries within the bounds of the Annual Conference while retaining their denominational affiliation (¶¶331.8, 346.2)? (v) (Designate with an asterisk those who have been accorded voting rights within the annual conference. Indicate credential.)

Name Clergy Status DenominationDavid P. Bergstrom Ordained American BaptistTimothy Christman Ordained Evangelical CongregationalRobert L. Nissly Ordained Evangelical CongregationalDouglas Paglia Ordained International Pentecostal Holiness

26. Who are affiliate members: (List alphabetically; indicate annual conference or denomination where membership is held.)

a) With vote (¶586.4 [v])?

Name Member Conference/Denomination First Year of Affiliation

None b) Without vote (¶¶334.5, 344.4)? (v 2/3)

Name Member Conference/Denomination First Year of Affiliation

David Gallick Susquehanna 1992 NOTE: If your conference has admitted or ordained persons as a courtesy to another conference, list these persons in Question 4 0 only. If persons have been admitted or ordained by another annual conference as a courtesy to your conference, list these persons in Questions 27-39, whichever are appropriate, giving the date and name of the accommodating conference.

27. Who are elected as associate members? ¶322 (v) (List alphabetically-see note preceding Question 27):NameNone

28. Who are elected as provisional members and what seminary are they attending, if in school? (under ¶¶322.4, 324, 325)

a) Provisional Deacons under the provisions of ¶¶ 324.4a, c or ¶324.5?(v) Name SeminaryDiana A. Esposito M.A. in Religion, Palmer

b) Provisional Elders under the provisions of ¶¶ 324.4a, b or ¶324.6 (v)); ¶ 322.4 (v ¾)

Name SeminaryAngela Kellie Ebo M.Div. Lutheran @ Phila.Bradley M. Leight M.Div. PalmerNina Patton-Semerod M.Div. DrewJulia Singleton M.Div. Drew

29. Who are continued as provisional members, in what year were they admitted to provisional membership, and what seminary are they attending, if in school (¶326)?

a) In preparation for ordination as a deacon or elder? (¶326)




Name Clergy Status (PD or PE) Date and SeminaryNelson Roger Alleman PE 2015 EvangelicalTawny Leigh Bernhardt PE 2013 DukeJennifer Berry PE 2015 DrewRichard Brown, II PE 2012 PalmerMercedes Anne O’Connor Case PE 2014 LancasterSusan E. Daniels PE 2012 PalmerScott Curtis Dorn PE 2014 PalmerDeanna Marie Geiter PE 2015 LancasterAndrea M. Haldeman PE 2015 EvangelicalSteven Jeffrey Handzel PE 2015 PalmerDorcas Kumba Kamanda PE 2015 LancasterJohn Allen Keller PD 2015 PalmerShauna Ridge PE 2014 WesleyJessica Lynn Ross PE 2015 PalmerBeth Ann Trone PE 2014 EvangelicalWalter Jerome Unterberger PE 2015 Asbury

b) Provisional deacons who became provisional elders? Name Original Year of MembershipNone

c) Provisional elders who became provisional deacons? (Indicate year) Name Original Year of MembershipNone

d) Provisional members who transferred from other conferences or denominations? (¶347.1)

Name Clergy Status (PD or PE)

Original Year of Membership

Previous Conference or Denomination

None

30. What ordained clergy, coming from other Christian denominations, have had their orders recognized (¶348): (v) A person’s orders may be recognized when they are transferring their membership into your annual conference from another Christian denomination. A person who is listed in Q.30 must also be listed in either Q. 31 a or b, depending on the transfer status.

Name Clergy Status Previous DenominationNone

31. What ordained clergy have been received from other Christian denominations (¶347.3): (List alphabetically—see note preceding Question 27):

a) As provisional members (¶347.3a,b)? (v) Name Clergy Status (PD or

PE)Date Received Former Denomination

None b) As local pastors (¶347.3a)? (v)

Name Clergy Status (FL or PL)

Date Received Former Denomination

None

32. Who are elected as members in full connection? (List alphabetically-see note preceding Question 27. Anyone appearing on this question must also be listed somewhere in questions 33-34 or 36, unless the clergy’s orders from another denomination were recognized on question 30 in a previous year.) (v 2/3):

a) DeaconsName




Edward Locke CameronGregory Scott EllisNicole Kelley Kleinberg

b) Elders

NameMarcia Carol Lincoln-HeinzSusan L. MooreJared Earl Stine

33. Who are ordained as deacons and what seminary awarded their degree? Or, if their master’s degree is not from a seminary, at what seminary did they complete the basic graduate theological studies?: (List alphabetically-see note preceding Question 27)

a) After provisional membership (¶330)? (v 2/3) Name SeminaryEdward Locke Cameron Gordon-ConwellGregory Scott Ellis MoravianNicole Kelley Kleinberg Palmer

b) Transfer from elder?(¶309) (v 2/3)

Name SeminaryNone

34. Who are ordained as elders and what seminary awarded their degree? a) After provisional membership? (¶335) (v 2/3)

Name SeminaryMarcia Lincoln-Heinz PalmerSusan L. Moore EvangelicalJared Earl Stine Candler

b) Transfer from deacon? (¶309) (v 2/3) Name SeminaryNone

35. What provisional members, previously discontinued, are readmitted (¶365)? (v) Name Clergy Status Year Previously Discontinued

None

36. Who are readmitted (¶¶366-368 [v], ¶369 [v 2/3]): Name Clergy Status Previous Status

None

37. Who are returned to the effective relationship after voluntary retirement (¶358.7): (v) Name Clergy Status Year Retired

None

38. Who have been received by transfer from other annual conferences of The United Methodist Church (¶¶347.1, 416.5, 635.2m)? (List alphabetically. Indicate credential. See note preceding Question 27.)

Name Clergy Status Previous Conference Date of TransferMichelle Beissel FE Susquehanna 07/01/16John Bletsch FE Western North Carolina 07/01/16

39. Who are transferred in from other Methodist denominations (¶347.2)? (List alphabetically. Indicate credential.)

Name Clergy Status Previous Methodist Denomination Date of Transfer

None




40. Who have been ordained as a courtesy to other conferences, after election by the other conference? (See note preceding Question 27. Such courtesy elections or ordinations do not require transfer of conference membership.)

a) Deacons?Name Member ConferenceNone

b) Elders?

Name Member ConferenceNone

41. Who have been transferred out to other annual conferences of The United Methodist Church (¶416.5)? (List

alphabetically. Indicate credential. See note preceding Question 27.) Name Clergy Status New Conference Date of TransferBenjamin L. Hartley FD Oregon-Idaho 07/01/16

Lillian Smith FE Baltimore-Washington 08/01/16

42. Who are discontinued as provisional members (¶327)? (v) a) By expiration of eight-year time limit (¶ 327)

Name Clergy StatusNone

b) By voluntary discontinuance (¶ 327.6) (v)Name Clergy StatusNone

c) By involuntary discontinuance (¶ 327.6) (v)Name Clergy StatusNone

d) By reaching Mandatory Retirement Age (¶ 327.7)Name Clergy StatusNone

43. Who are on location? a) Who has been granted honorable location (¶359.1)? (1) This year? (v)

Name Clergy Status Charge Conference Membership Date Effective

None (2) Previously?

Name Year Originally Granted

Charge Conference Membership

Year of Most Recent Report

Timothy Heitz 2011 New Holland: Ranck’sRichard M. Hill 2007 Millersville: GraceScott Sheely 2008 Manheim: SalemHenry Zeigler 2007 New Berlinville

b) Who on honorable location are appointed ad interim as local pastors? (¶359.2) (Indicate date and appointment.)




Name Appointment Year Originally Granted Location

None c) Who has been placed on administrative location (¶360)? 1) This year? (v)

Name Date Effective Charge Conference Membership

None (2) Previously?

Name Year Originally Placed Charge Conference Membership

Year of Most Recent Report

None 44. Who have been granted the status of honorable location–retired (¶359.3): a) This year? (v)

Name Clergy Status

Year Honorable Location Originally Granted


Warren Cederholm FE 1997 Arch Street UMC b) Previously?

Name Clergy Status

Year Honorable Location Originally Granted


Reynolds Baldwin FE 1978 NewtownStanley Bolds FE 2004 Phila: New VisionDonald Drumheller FE 1969 West Ohio ConferenceCarlene Fretz FE 2008 OxfordJay Sheldon Fulmer FE 1976 New Holland: EvangelicalPhilip Lloyd-Sidle FE KentuckyMelvin Leaman FE 2004 West GroveCharles W. Lobb FE 1970 ExtonLauren Meiswinkle FE 1970 West ChesterWilliam Moyer, Sr. FE 2008 Millersville: FirstJudson Parker FE 1983 Central Texas Conf.Walter Swank FE 1993 ElamFrederick Zimmerman FE 1969 Annville

45. Who have had their status as honorably located and their orders terminated (¶359.2)? (v) Name Date Effective Prior Clergy StatusNone

46. Who have had their conference membership terminated? a) By withdrawal to unite with another denomination (¶361.1, .4)? (v)

Name Date Effective Prior Clergy StatusNone

b) By withdrawal from the ordained ministerial office (¶361.2, .4)? (v)

Name Date Effective Prior Clergy StatusLen Calhoun 10/13/15 FELawrence James Whitehouse 07/01/16 FE

c) By withdrawal under complaints or charges (¶¶361.3, .4; 2719.2)?





d) By termination of orders under recommendation of the Board of Ordained Ministry (¶354.12 )? (v)


e) By trial (¶2713)?


47. Who have been suspended under the provisions of ¶363.1d, ¶2704.2c or ¶2711.3? (Give effective dates. Indicate credential.)

Name Date Effective Clergy StatusNone

48. Deceased (List alphabetically in the spaces provided) a) What associate members have died during the year? Effective:

Name Date of Birth Date of DeathNone

Retired:Name Date of Birth Date of DeathNone

b) What provisional members have died during the year? (Indicate credential.) Effective:



c) What elders have died during the year? Effective:

Name Date of Birth Date of DeathBrian Terry Lee Hunt 06/26/47 05/27/15

Retired:Name Date of Birth Date of DeathWilliam A. Sharp 11/25/20 06/18/15Colin T. Gorman 06/05/24 06/25/15Richard C. Mark 09/06/37 08/24/15William Theodore Bach 11/05/50 09/15/15Jere R. Martin 06/17/35 09/15/15Russell E. Walters 02/22/30 09/22/15Robert Linthicum 03/24/43 01/21/16Robert E. Nicholson 01/01/27 01/22/16John Ness 01/24/35 01/30/16Frederick C. Lowery 12/05/24 02/19/16Richard Voigt 03/04/32 02/19/16John Kulp 06/24/23 02/22/16




James A. Landis 05/01/30 05/11/16Kenneth L. Beale, Sr. 03/08/27 05/14/16

d) What deacons have died during the year? Effective:



e) What local pastors have died during the year? Active:


Retired:Name Date of Birth Date of DeathTeresita M. Beach 11/12/44 03/04/16Myron Steele 02/13/32 01/23/16

49. What provisional or ordained members (elders and deacons) have received appointments in other Annual Conferences of The United Methodist Church while retaining their membership in this Annual Conference (¶¶331.8, 346.1)?

Name Clergy Status

Conference Where Appointed Appointment

Brian Albert FE Peninsula-DelawareAnthony Avery Arrington FE Peninsula-DelawareKerry Bart FE West VirginiaSusan Czarnecki FE Peninsula-DelawareTimothy Duchesne FE Peninsula-DelawareNeil Gutmaker FE Peninsula-DelawareTiffany Manning FD SusquehannaMelody Porter FD VirginiaDavid Ryan FE Peninsula-DelawareSusan Sliker FE Peninsula-DelawareNancy Lynne Westfield FD Greater New Jersey

50. Who are the provisional, ordained members or associate members on leave of absence and for what number of years consecutively has each held this relation (¶354)? (Indicate credential. Record Charge Conference where membership is held.)

Name Number of Years Charge Conference a) Voluntary? (1) Personal, less than 5 years (¶354.2a 3) (v)

Name Clergy Status

Date Effective Charge Conference

None (2) Personal, 5 years of more (¶354.2a 3) (v 2/3)

Name Clergy Status


None

(3) Family, less than 5 years (¶354.2b 3) (v)

Name Clergy Status


None




(4) Family, 5 years or more (¶354.2b 3) (v 2/3)Name Clergy

StatusDate Effective

Charge Conference

None

5) Transitional (¶354.2c)

Name Clergy Status


Jennifer Berry PE 07/01/16 Phila.: Germantown, First

b) Involuntary (¶ 355)? (v 2/3)

Name Clergy Status


None

51. Who are granted sabbatical leave (¶352)? (v) Name Clergy

StatusDate Effective

Charge Conference

None

52. Who have been granted medical leave due to medical or disabling conditions (¶357)? (v)

Name Clergy Status Date Effective Charge Conference

John Bhajjan FE 04/01/15Glenn Brown FE 07/01/11Gary Dillensnyder FE 04/22/07Sandra Knaub FE 09/25/11Christy Orr FE 09/15/02Kevin Readman FE 06/01/15Debra Schreiber FE 05/01/16Daniel Siddle FE 08/08/12Steven Taylor FE 09/07/07Kathryn Wieder FD 08/08/10

53. What members in full connection have been retired (¶358): (List alphabetically. If retiring in the interim between conference sessions (¶358.2d), indicate the effective date of retirement.) (Under ¶358.1, no vote required; under ¶358.2, v; under ¶358.3, v 2/3)Deaconsa) This year?

Name Date EffectiveKathryn Wieder 07/01/16

b) Previously?Name Date Effective

David R. Adam 07/01/08

Bernice Carr 10/29/06

Ula Christopher 07/01/14

Denita Connor 04/01/14

A. Richard Erisman 07/01/01

Joyce Wilson 01/01/09

Elders a) This year?

Name Date EffectiveJohn Charnock 10/01/15




John Davis 07/01/16Clifford Flick 07/01/16James Goudie 07/01/16Lester Groves 07/01/16Dennis Keen 07/01/16Larry Mark 07/01/16Steven McComas 07/01/16Bonniekaren Mullen-Holtz 07/01/16Kathryn Painter 07/01/16Margret Powell 07/01/16Nancy Ross 07/01/16Charles Rothermel 07/01/16Joseph Wenrich 07/01/16John Wheatley 07/01/16Bronwyn Yocum 07/01/16

b) Previously?

Name Date EffectiveH. E. Abram 07/01/97L. F. Adams 07/01/11T. E. Adams 06/19/92M. Alleman 07/01/15O. R. Allen 07/01/03G. Alt 07/01/01L. W. Althouse 07/01/93T. E. Anderman 06/15/92R. H. Andrews 07/01/10C. Asquith 07/01/12H. Ashbey 09/30/12H. E. Aughinbaugh 06/18/94L. Bach 07/01/12R. A. Bailey 07/01/11J. Bamberger 07/01/11T. W. Bare 06/17/95D. R. Barley 07/01/99E. E. Barlow, Jr. 07/01/97M. Wright Bartlow 06/30/11R. W. Barr 07/01/91C. S. Bartolett 06/05/93K. Beale, Jr. 10/11/12E. L. Bean 06/30/11M. E. Beckman 01/01/06L. R. Bergstresser 07/01/00K. P. Bell 07/01/08W. F. Bingham 07/01/98L. G. Bird 07/01/03G. Boone, III 07/01/91C. F. L. Bracey 07/01/11J. Brenner 07/01/06

D. W. Briddell 01/01/94J. Bright 07/01/02D. W. Brown 07/01/13C.S. Brubaker 12/31/13W. Bryant, Jr. 11/01/01K. E. Buckwalter 06/12/89H. Burkett 01/01/03J. T. Buttimer 07/01/03C. Campbell 07/01/06V. C. Cantell 07/01/97L. Carl 07/01/06P. M. Carlson 07/01/98J. S. Carter 06/18/94T. W. Chadwick 07/01/02G. C. Chapman 07/01/97J. Charles 07/01/91W. T. Cherry 07/01/93P. E. Chreiman 07/01/90A. Choe 01/01/03W. Chrin 07/01/12S. Cole 07/01/11R. W. Conner 07/01/10J. D. Corbett 01/01/03D. N. Cowan 07/01/04D. R. Cramp 07/01/11J. C. Crossley 07/01/00A. Curet-Cuevas 07/01/91N. S. Curtis 06/05/93T. Davis-Shappell 07/01/14K. E. Dearstyne 07/01/90P. W. Dissington 06/18/94N. R. Dougherty 07/01/10M. B. Duff 06/30/92D. E. Edwards 09/01/04J. S. Edwards 07/01/10J. R. Elliott 01/10/08D. Ellis-Killian 07/01/06D. R. Emrick 07/01/07W. G. Epler 07/01/00D. Felker 07/01/10D. M. Field 06/30/92D. L. Fife 07/01/98G. J. Fisher 07/01/00C. Flaherty 07/01/10J. T. Ford 01/01/13D. J. Frame 07/01/99L. Frank 07/01/15S. D. Fry, Jr. 01/01/04J. Garner 12/31/14W. H. Garrett 07/01/02




H. N. Gibbons 07/01/11B. T. Goldberg-Taylor 07/01/09M. E. Good 07/01/00E. C. Goodley 06/30/11C. J. Grantham 04/24/11M. E. Graves 07/01/85E. R. Green, Jr. 01/01/03J. C. Grove 07/01/05P. A. Gutknecht 07/01/08R. L. Hachtman 07/01/14P. R. Hagenberger 07/01/98D. Hall 07/01/13H. Hall 02/01/14J. R. Hallam 07/01/11T. H. Hallam 06/30/09S. L. Hargrove 07/01/11C. Harris 07/01/02M. Harris 07/01/12M. R. Hartenstine 07/01/05B. L. Hartman 07/01/07W. D. Hartman 10/31/01M. A. Hassinger 11/14/03B. Hazelwood 07/01/01D. Heberling 07/01/06K. Heckman 07/01/99G. E. Hendrickson 03/01/14D. G. Henritzy 02/01/05P. B. Henry 10/01/08D. G. Herner 07/01/10J. K. Hess 07/01/05J. W. Hodges, III 06/30/13L. Hof 07/01/06C. L. Hoffman 06/30/08R. Hoffman 07/01/09W. G. Hoopes, Jr. 07/01/91M. E. Hoskins 07/01/07E. R. Hostetter 07/01/98R. Hostetter 11/01/14B. L. Housley 07/01/14R. W. Howarth 07/01/05G. H. Ihle 07/01/97H. B. Irwin, III 07/01/98T. H. James 06/28/08A. Jenkins 07/01/15T. H. Jenkins, Jr. 07/01/91R. Johnson 07/01/14H. L. Kaufhold, Jr. 07/01/08W. J. Keeler 06/12/89G. L. Kessler 01/01/03S. Y. Khan 06/01/13

E. C. Kimes 07/01/14K. Klingborg 11/01/14D. Knotts 05/18/12R. F. Kohler 12/31/08S. Krall 07/01/12W. T. Kreichbaum 06/17/95K. E. Kroehler 06/30/10R. Kruse 07/01/03W. Kuntze 05/01/12C. Lawfer 07/01/12C. H. Lee 07/01/86L. D. Leister 07/01/13J. Leggieri 07/01/07B. L. Lenich 07/01/00J. Lewis, Sr. 07/01/14R. Lewis 01/01/03L. Light 07/01/08T. W. Loder 02/01/00R. H. Longmire 07/01/98J. Lynch 07/01/12L. R. Mack 07/01/09J. S. MacMain 07/01/99A. S. Maloney 07/01/09W. R. Marlow 06/15/92C. E. Marshall 01/01/08T. McCabe 07/01/10J. G. McEllhenney 07/01/97T. C. McGill 06/30/13M. McKonly 07/01/15J. A. McNair 07/01/14M. A. McRoberts 07/01/00G. Meekins 10/01/12T. C. Mefferd 01/01/03L. F. Michaels 07/01/10V. Miles 09/01/07D. Miller 01/01/15R. Miller 07/01/15W. A. Miller 07/01/98T. Mills 07/01/12R. A. Mongold 07/01/08E. Moore 11/30/12M. S. Morgan 07/01/10D. M. Myers 07/01/98J. Nesbitt 07/01/06B. E. Nicholson, Jr. 06/12/89D. C. Nissly 07/01/11T. R. Ochs 07/01/96J. D. O’Neill 07/01/93S. W. Ott 09/01/11D. E. Owens 07/03/00




J. Pacocha 07/01/15H. E. Palmer 06/18/94J. T. Parker 07/01/06J. E. Patterson 05/03/01D. W. Pierce 05/03/01J. E. Pierce 07/01/02R. C. Pike 07/01/87P. Ponce 05/18/12R. A. Pope 07/01/11O. D. E. Pottieger 06/10/90C. P. E. Pottieger 06/10/90K. Price 07/01/15J. Puckhaber 07/01/08S. Ramnit 06/30/08W. Ramsden 06/17/95J. J. Rardin 09/15/01D. E. Ray 08/01/13G. R. Rendle, Jr. 07/01/07A. L. Rettew 07/01/04D. E. Richards 07/01/91G. S. Rigby 07/01/02E. Ritz 07/01/15S. W. Rodgers 07/01/10M. C. Roney 07/01/07K. E. Rowe 07/01/02J. Salam 07/01/98F. Sanders 07/01/12R. S. Sarley 07/01/11A. G. Sauer 07/01/93G. Schongalla-Bowman 01/01/01R. H. Shearer 07/01/10R. E. Sheesley 07/01/13J. M. Kehler Shirey 06/05/04R. B. Shrom, Jr. 07/01/12P. Shumate 07/01/12A. C. Simonson 07/01/87A. Smith 05/18/12D. Snovel 07/01/09H. J. Snyder 01/01/03W. W. Spiegelhalder 07/01/87M. G. Sponsler, Jr. 07/01/98R. U. Stahley 07/01/04W. Staton 07/01/04R. E. Stauffer 07/01/85J. S. Steger 06/30/13T. Steger 07/01/12R. J. Stevenson 12/01/13A. R. Steward 07/01/02C. K. Stiller 06/30/07R. W. Streeper 07/01/05

R. W. Stroud 07/01/00A. T. Sumerfield 01/01/98J. Tallman 07/01/99D. W. Tatem 01/01/13H. F. Taussig 07/01/14G. E. Thomas 07/01/85W. M. Thompson 07/01/08G. A. Tigh 07/01/13L. E. Troester, III 07/01/05J. T. Truitt 07/01/11H. J. Tyson 06/30/11D. E. Unrath 06/29/08H. K. Vassallo 07/01/98C. L. Wagner, Jr 07/01/97R. Waite 07/01/13J. Washington. Jr. 07/01/94D. L. Watson 07/01/99C. E. Weigel, Jr. 06/30/11L. A. Weller 07/01/91X. P. Wernett 07/01/05L. E. Wethington 07/01/83R. E. Wilcock 11/30/13D. R. Williams 07/01/11J. D. Williams 07/01/96R. Woodlen 07/01/06H. F. Wooters 07/01/02J. Wright 07/01/12J. S. Yang 07/01/09J. Young 01/01/08J. Yoon 07/01/02C. Yrigoyen, Jr. 01/01/06W. K. Yun 09/01/04D. E. Zechman 01/01/03J. D. Zeiter 07/01/02R. E. Ziegler 07/01/91




R. S. Zimmerman 07/01/96J. D. Zondag 07/01/93

54. What associate members have been retired (¶358): (List alphabetically. If retiring in the interim between conference sessions (¶358.2d), indicate the effective date of retirement.) (Under ¶358.1, no vote required; under ¶358.2, v; under ¶358.3, v 2/3)

a) This year?Name Date EffectiveNone

a) Previously?Name Date EffectiveKenneth E. Dewalt 07/01/14Leon Frisby 07/01/92Gwinyai Muzorewa 09/01/09

55. What provisional members have been previously retired (¶358, 2008 Book of Discipline)? (NOTE: Provisional members who reach mandatory retirement age and have not retired by Jan. 1, 2013 shall be discontinued (¶ 327.7) and listed in Q. 42.

Name Date EffectiveNone

56. Who have been recognized as retired local pastors (¶320.5): a) This year?

Name Date EffectiveBetty Ford 07/01/16Denise Founds 09/01/16Nancy Gehres 07/01/16Craig Laubach 01/01/16Jong Soo Lee 07/01/16Deborah McLean 01/01/16Gerald Reifsnyder 07/01/16Albert Schell 07/01/16

b) Previously?Name Date EffectiveJohn H. Althouse 02/01/01Donald Anderson 07/01/14Nevin Andes 12/31/08Robert G. Argot 07/01/07Janet Burns 07/01/94Carl Doerr 12/31/07Edgar W. Donnan 07/01/07Mary Elum 07/01/15Jo Ann Enders 07/01/09Robert Everett 07/01/07Sharon Feuerstein 03/30/14George Gehen 07/01/02Burgess Gordon 06/17/95Edward Graham 07/01/00




Donald Heacock 07/01/97Thomas A. Jackmon 07/01/08John Jennings 07/01/15Bruce Lefever 07/01/10Ira Lydic 03/21/14George Miller 01/19/15Jimmy Montgomery 07/01/12Charles Mudie 07/01/06S. J. Mundell 07/01/99Sandra Nash 06/30/09Archie Passmore 09/01/05Herbert W. Phillips, Sr. 07/01/14J. Wayne Pratt 07/01/10Erik Ressler 08/31/13Carl Schneider 07/01/15Nancy Shane 06/30/13William Steiger 07/01/07Donald Sweimler 07/01/12Thomas Weeple 01/01/07Carole A. Wood 01/31/10Janice Young 01/01/08

57. What is the number of clergy members of the Annual Conference: By appointment category and conference relationship? (NOTES:

(1) Where applicable, the question numbers on this report form corresponding to each category have been placed in parenthesis following the category title. Where these question numbers appear, the number reported in that category should agree with the number of names listed in the corresponding questions.

(2) For the three categories of Appointments to Extension Ministries, report as follows:¶344.1a,c): the number of clergy members appointed within United Methodist connectional structures, including

district superintendents, or to an ecumenical agency.¶344.1b): the number of clergy members appointed to extension ministries, under endorsement by the Division of

Chaplains and Related Ministries of the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry.¶344.1d): the number of clergy members appointed to other valid ministries, confirmed by a two-thirds vote of the

Annual Conference.

NOTE: Report those in extension ministry in one category only. See the Discipline paragraphs indicated for more detailed description of these appointment categories.)

NOTE: Those approved to serve as a local pastor, but not currently under appointment, are not counted as

clergy members of the conference.

AM FD FE FL PD PE PLAppointments to Attend School (82) 0 0 1 1 0 1 0Appointments to Extension Ministries (¶316.1; 344.1a,c)(80a) 0 0 11 1 0 0 0

Appointments to Extension Ministries (¶316.1; 344.1b)(80b) 0 0 13 0 0 0 1

Appointments to Extension Ministries (¶316.1; 344.1d)(80c) 0 0 23 2 0 1 1




Deacons (in full connection and probationary (provisional) serving Beyond the Local Church (¶33.1.1a,b) (81a,b)

0 18 0 0 3 0 0

EPA App to/from AnotherConference 0 2 8 0 0 0 0

Pastors and deacons with primary appointments to Local Church (¶¶331.c, 339)

1 18 199 20 2 18 115

Retired (53, 54, 55) 6 8 241 1 0 0 22Transitional Leave (50a3, 50c1iii) 0 0 9 0 0 0 0TOTAL CLERGY MEMBERS 7 46 505 25 5 20 139

747

Female Clergy Members:FD FE FL PD PE PL

N/A 0 0 0 3 0 4African American 8 16 0 0 3 6Anglo/Caucasian 22 98 5 0 10 35Hispanic/Latino 0 2 1 0 0 4Korean 0 1 0 0 0 0TOTAL FEMALE CLERGY 30 117 6 3 13 49

218

Male Clergy Members:AM FD FE PL PD PE PL

N/A 0 0 0 0 0 0 4African American 2 2 24 0 0 0 8Anglo/Caucasian 4 14 334 14 2 7 74Asian 0 0 5 0 0 0 0Hispanic/Latino 1 0 5 4 0 0 3Indian 0 0 6 0 0 0 0Korean 0 0 10 0 0 0 0Multi-Ethnic 0 0 1 0 0 0 1Other 0 0 3 1 0 0 0TOTAL MALE CLERGY 7 16 388 19 2 7 90

529

Note: Information on clergy by race and gender in the annual conference is available through the General Council on Finance and Administration at www.gcfa.org.

PART III – CERTIFICATION IN SPECIALIZED MINISTRY

Note: Indicate credential of persons in Part III: FD, FE, PD, PE, AM, FL, PL, and LM

58. Who are the candidates in process for certification in specialized ministry? Name Clergy/Lay Status Specialized Ministry




None

59. Who is certified in specialized ministry? (List the areas of specialized ministry. Indicate by an asterisk those certified this year.)

Name Clergy/Lay Status Specialized Ministry Sending ConferenceNone

60. Who are transferred in as a certified person in specialized ministry? Name Clergy/Lay Status Specialized Ministry Sending ConferenceNone

61. Who are transferred out as a specialized person in specialized ministry? Name Clergy/Lay Status Specialized Ministry Sending ConferenceNone

62. Who have been removed as a certified person in specialized ministry? Name Clergy/Lay Status Specialized StatiusNone

PART IV - CERTIFIED LAY MINISTRY

(¶(¶271, and 666.10 The Book of Discipline)

63. Who are certified as lay ministers (¶271, and 666.10)? (List alphabetically, by district) CE District: *Class of June 2016 **Assigned

Mr. Aubrey Bates 243 Bertolett School RoadSpring City, PA 19473-3213

H: (610) [email protected]

Ms. Jennifer Crosby 1609 W Ruscomb StreetPhiladelphia, PA 19141-1515


Ms. Michele Dawson 156 E Church StreetDowningtown, PA 19335

H: (610) 269-7962dwsnmic @aol.com

Ms. Brenda Del Rosario 3910 Conshohocken Ave. Apt. 8201Philadelphia, PA 19131


Ms. Jean Howe * ** 611 Kathryn StreetReading, PA 19601


Mr. Scott Johnson 101 Acoma LaneCollegeville, PA 19426


Mr. Jon Kirkbride * 478 Tyson RoadSchwenksville, PA 19473


Ms. Maria Kollar * 3547 Woodcrest AvenueNewtown Square, PA 19073


Ms. Cressa Morris 1805 Edgewood PlaceClementon, NJ 08021


Mrs. Carolyn Pressley-Newsome 25 Lenape LaneBurlington, NJ 08016


Mr. Earl V. Tomlinson 102 Muirfield DriveBlue Ball, PA 19422


Mr. Dennis Wack 259 Pinetown RoadNorristown, PA 19403





Mr. Robert Wagner ** 142 Hemlock RoadReading, PA 19607-9669


Ms. Wilhelmina Young 2523 N 17th StreetPhiladelphia, PA 19132


EA District *Class of June 2016 **Assigned

Mrs. Georgianna Bernard 201 Abbeyview AvenueWillow Grove, PA 19090-3312


Mrs. Candace E. Carter ** 376 Garfield LaneTrevose, PA 19053-6749


Mr. Russell Durbin 81 Countryside DriveDoylestown, PA 18901


Mrs. Lorraine V. Foster ** 1310 Avenel BoulevardNorth Wales, PA 19454


Mr. Robert Irving * ** 5 Andover PlaceNewtown, PA 18940


Mr. David Piltz 1717 Second AvenueBristol, PA 19007


Mrs. Ruth Portzline ** 261 Eagle CourtJamison, PA 18929


Mr. Andrew Rozek 209 Sugarberry LaneLanghorne, PA 19047


Ms. Susan Velez * ** 813 Pond Street, 1st Floor, RearBristol, PA 19007


Ms. Candy Windland 28 Flamehill RoadLevittown, PA 19056-1908


Mr. Rick Wrisley * ** 144 East Moyer RoadPottstown, PA 19454


NE District * Class of June 2016 **Assigned

Mrs. Judith K. Ehninger 2620 Gracie LoneMacungie, PA 18062


Ms. Robin Roman 2680 Heckmans LaneCoopersburg, PA 18036

H: (610) 798-7469rrjae@yahoo,com

Mr. Mertice Shane ** 76 Schoolhouse RoadEast Stroudsburg, PA 18302


Ms. Pamela Snyder * 1480 Station StreetLehighton, PA 18235


Ms. Dorothy Stem * ** 112 Eaglesmere CircleEast Stroudsburg, PA 18301


Mr. John Vidal * 1719 Donalds RoadEffort, PA 18330


Dr. Jeffery A. Weber 523 Megan CourtStroudsburg, PA 18360


Mr. Charles Wilson 204 Clermont AvenueStroudsburg, PA 18360


SE District **Assigned

Mrs. Jennifer Lafferty 315 Municipal DriveThorndale, PA 19372





Mr. John Lafferty 315 Municipal DriveThorndale, PA 19372


Mr. Barry Trout ** 371 Hill RoadHoney Brook, PA 19344


Ms. Frances Whittington 713-B East 24th StreetChester, PA 19013


SW District *Class of June 2016 **Assigned

Mr. David Kling ** 345 Greenland DriveLancaster, PA 17602


Mr. Kevin Kresge * ** 1682 Stony Battery RoadLancaster, PA 17601


Ms. Dianne Orwig 33 Aberdeen RoadElizabethtown, PA 17022


Mr. Rob Stoner * 518 Bent Oak DriveMount Joy, PA 17552


Mrs. Linda Van Til 303 North Broad StreetLititz, PA


PART V – DIACONAL MINISTERS

(Paragraph numbers in questions 65-72 refer to The 1992 Book of Discipline)

64. Who are transferred in as diaconal ministers (¶312)? Name Previous Annual Conference DateNone

65. Who are transferred out as diaconal ministers (¶312)?

Name Previous Annual Conference DateNone

66. Who have had their conference relationship as diaconal ministers terminated by Annual Conference action (¶313.3)?

(Under ¶313.3a, no vote; under ¶313.3b, v 2/3) Name Date EffectiveNone

67. What diaconal ministers have died during the year?a. Effective:


b. Retired: Name Date of Birth Date of DeathNone

68. What diaconal ministers have been granted leaves of absence (under ¶313.1a, c, d) (disability, study/sabbatical, or

personal leave): (v) Name Type of Leave Date Originally GrantedNone

69. What diaconal ministers have been granted an extended leave (¶313.1e)

Name Date Originally GrantedNone

70. Who have returned to active status from extended leave (¶313.1e)? (v)?




Name Date Originally GrantedNone

71. Who have taken the retired relationship to the Annual Conference as diaconal ministers (¶312.2): (Under ¶313.2b, v 2/3)

a. This year? Name Date EffectiveNone

b. Previously?

Name Date EffectiveNone

PART VI – APPOINTMENTS AND CONCLUDING BUSINESS

72. Who are approved for less than full-time service? a) What associate members, provisional, or full elders are approved for appointment to less than full-time service,

what is the total number of years for which such approval has been granted to each, and for what fraction of full-time service (in one-quarter increments) is approval granted (for purposes of equitable compensation claim and pension credit) ¶¶338.2, 342.2, 1506)? (v 2/3, after 8 years v 3/4):

Name Appointment Fraction of Full-Time ServiceAnthony Avery Arrington 4 ¾Gertrude Duckett 4 ¾ Sharon Feuerstein 1 ¼Deanna Geiter 2 ¾ Deborah Gildart-Hanks 10 ¼Debra L. Hebden 3 ½ Mandy Stanley Miller 8 ½John Pritchard 35 ½ Beth Ann Trone 3 ½ Matthew Whayland 14 ¾Eric H. Woodworth 37 ¼

b) What deacons in full connection and provisional deacons are approved for appointment to less than full-time service (¶331.7)?

Name Appointment Fraction of Full-Time ServiceDeborah Tanksley-Brown 1 1/4

73. Who have been appointed as interim pastors under the provisions of ¶338.3 since the last session of the annual conference, and for what period of time?

Name Appointment Start Date End DateScott Friedgen-Veitch Easton: Green Pond February 1, 2016 June 30, 2018

74. What changes have been made in appointments since the last annual conference session? (Attach list. Include and

identify Appointments Beyond the Local Church (Deacons) and Appointments to Extension Ministries (Elders). Give effective dates of all changes.)

75. What elders (full connection and provisional) associate members, and local pastors are appointed to ministry to the local church and where are they appointed for the ensuing year? (Attach a list.)

76. What elders (full connection and provisional), associate members, and local pastors are appointed to extension ministries for the ensuing year? (Attach a list)




a) Within the connectional structures of United Methodism (¶344.1a, c)? Tracy Bass Christopher J. KurienBumkoo Chung Anita Adams PowellIrving Cotto Esdras SedaAlfred Day, III Dawn Taylor-Storm

b) To ministries endorsed by the Board of Higher Education and Ministry (344.1b)?

Deborah A. Appler Nancy MillerMichael D. Carr William H. Phillips, Jr.Robert Crane Timothy ReichardBarbara Emery Shelly ScheibelerGordon E. Hendrickson Clyde E. ScottDavid Knotts Michael ShaubColleen Kristula Sharon VandegriftMary Catherine Miller

c) To other valid ministries under the provisions of ¶344.1d? (v 2/3)

Frank Billman J. Val Hastings, Jr.Hannah Adair Bonner Brian HuntCharles R. Carrick Kenneth J. LinfieldSteven T. Cherry Coleen Brandt PainterYongho Chun Timothy J. PattersonSara J. Davis-Shappell Frank J. Richardson, Jr.Amy Emmett-Rardin Bonny D. Smith (LP)Glen Esler Elizabeth Watson-MartinClifford Flick LauraWelch (LP)Gregory Kipp Gilmore-Clough Daniel YooJohnW. Gordon, III K. Kale Yu

77. Who are appointed as deacons (full connection and provisional) for the ensuing year? (Attach a list.) a) Through non-United Methodist agencies and settings beyond the local church (¶331.1a)?

David W. Brown SE The Marketing CooperativePhila.: Wharton-Wesley UMC

Janice Butz NE St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran ChurchBethlehem: Wesley UMC

Ben Caldwell CE PhilabundanceWayne UMC

David Coryell SW Christian Endeavor MidAtlanticEphrata: First UMC

Gregory Ellis NEConference Disaster ResponseCoord. and VIM Coord.Allentown: Asbury UMC

John Allen Keller SEDuPont Hospital for Children andAppalachian Service ProjectWest Chester UMC

Nicole K. Kleinberg CE Be The NoisePhila.: Arch Street UMC

David Krueger CE Writing and ScholarshipPhila.: Arch Street UMC

Erin Maurer EA Diakon Lutheran Social Serv.Chalfont UMC




Melody C. Porter EA College of William and MaryWesley Foundation

Deborah Tanksley-Brown SE Kennett: UMC of the Open DoorHope Christian Counseling

Susan Worrell SE Kennett: UMC of the Open DoorHope Christian Counseling

b) Through United Methodist Church-related agencies and schools within the connectional structures of The United Methodist Church (¶331.1b)?

Jane D. MCarthy EA Wesley Enhanced LivingWillow Grove UMC

Ronald Schane NE Pocono Plateau Mountainhome UMC

N. Lynne Westfield EA Drew Theological Phila.: Janes Memorial UMC

Stephanie Brown Wilson SE Simpson HousePhila.: Sayers Memorial UMC

c) Within a local congregation, charge, or cooperative parish (¶331.1c)?Edward Cameron SW Lancaster: First UMCMaryanne Ditter NE Woxall: Tabor UMCMaryanne Ditter SW Ephrata: First

Diana A. Esposito SE Grove (Youth Director) and CampusMinister-Drexel Univ.

Tiffany Manning SE York: St. Paul UMCElizabeth Stine NW Lebanon: UMC of the Good ShepherdDeborah Tanksley-Brown SE Kennett: UMC of the Open Door

78. Who are appointed to attend school (¶416.6)? (List alphabetically all those whose prime appointment is to attend school.)

Name Clergy Status SchoolSuzanne Duchesne FE Drew University GDRJulia Singleton PE (1/4 time) Neumann University

79. Where are the diaconal ministers appointed for the ensuing year (¶310) [1992 Discipline]? (Attach list)

80. What other personal notations should be made? (Include such matters as changes in pension credit (¶1506.5), corrections or additions to matters reported in the “Business of the Annual Conference” form in previous years, and legal name changes of clergy members and diaconal ministers.)

None 81. Where and when shall the next Conference Session be held (¶603.2,3)?

Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks, PA - June 15-17, 2017



- 484 -2016 Resolutions

2016 ResolutionsResolution #2016 – 02 (Approved on Consent Calendar)Advance Specials – July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017Submitted by CSGM Eastern Pennsylvania Conference

Whereas the Conference Advance Special is a program of ministry which can seek funds from a local church that keeps its financial commitments to the conference and General Church in full in the previous years’ budget and has a desire to extend its support of the mission of the church through designated giving; and

Whereas a list of Conference Advance Specials would resource local churches, either in need of support for their programs and ministries, or local churches eager to extend their support of mission of the church; and

Whereas practicality indicates a change in the time period covered by a list of conference advance specials to as soon as possible after they are approved;

Therefore, be it resolved that the following programs and ministries of the annual conference having completed the appropriate applications, be designated as a list of Conference Advance Specials for the year July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017.

Person responsible for presenting resolution: Rev. David Davis, CSGM

ARTOS RETREATS ....................................................................................................................... $25,000Applicant: Julie Anderman607 Rose Petal Lane, Mount Joy. PA 17552.Phones: 717-492-4238.Email: [email protected] new approach to investing and in the well being of the clergy family and the marginalized within church communities. Designed by Clergy spouses and offered to clergy spouses, in retreats. This holistic coaching pilot program is spread over 18 months. Will be led by Rev. Dr. Val Hastings. It will focus on clergy spouses in transition, clergy graduates of seminaries, and other church leaders. The team will also research factors, contents and services to further a broader understanding and investment in overall pastoral health and church health through them.

COKESBURY SUMMER READING AND LUNCH PROGRAM ....................................................... $3,000Applicant: Sandra M. Cislo307 Market Street, Marcus Hook, PA 19061.Phone: 610-416-5112, 610-485-6162.Email: [email protected] is a 4 week, free summer reading and lunch program for students. Marcus Hook is a high poverty community, and as such the community faces a high degree of risks associated with poverty. this program helps students to have an alternative to those risks. It is the ministry of the Cokesbury church community to investing in the children and setting them up for a greater interest in reading and information.

EPA CAMP & RETREAT MINISTRY ............................................................................................... $10,000Applicant: Rev Sally OttEastern Pennsylvania Conference Office980 Madison Ave, Norristown PA 19403Phones: 610-666-9090, 717-627-1154.Fax: 610-666-9093Email: [email protected] ministry of Christian education and discipleship through camping and retreats.This ministry serves approximately 15,000 persons annually and around 4000 summer campers. The camp sites offer year round opportunities for churches, schools and organizations to hold retreats, day events or special events. This ministry provides creative and effective ways of churches connecting with their communities.

HOPE CHRISTIAN COUNSELING ................................................................................................... $3,000Applicant: Rev. Susan L. WorrellWestern Professional Center1515 West Chester Pike Suite A-3, West Chester PA 19382.Phones: 610-436-9298, 484-732-8269, 484-883-7628.



- 485 - 2016 Resolutions

Email: [email protected] The ministry is a non-profit, it offers professional counseling, and facilitates Retreats and workshops covering a wide range of issues by qualified and certified professionals and ordained clergy regardless of a person’s ability to pay a full fee. The ministry nurtures healing that leads to transformation and kingdom building. The ministry is open to all ages, races, gender, and sexual orientation.

LIGHT OF MARNIE ......................................................................................................................... $10,000Applicant: Jennifer & John Lafferty315 Municipal Drive, Thorndale PA 19372.Phones: 610-470-1369. 610-766-0944. 610-384-4228.Email: [email protected],[email protected] A well balanced after school program that helps students in their studies, provides a healthy snack and active physical exercise three days a week. The mission was originally targeted to Liberian immigrants, but has grown into a diverse ethnic group. Prayer, bible-reading, worship, singing and craft are part of this ministry.

LUMINA ........................................................................................................................................... $10,000Applicant: Correen M. Russo20 E Clay Street, Lancaster PA 17602.Phones: 717-394-8412. 717-808-8633. ....................................................................................................... Fax: 717-394-1435.Email: [email protected] The ministry is designed to benefit the disadvantaged, they focus on three areas

a. Children (fun night twice a week, and day camps)b. Clothing (specially school uniforms and professional)c. Nutrition Education.

They coordinate with 75 churches in the South West District and offer opportunities for over 200 volunteers annually.

MIDTOWN PARISH MINISTRIES ................................................................................................... $25,000Applicant: Millicent Clark700-18 W, Norrris Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122Phones: 215-763-0742, 267-230-1999.Email: [email protected] This ministry is devoted to Biblical teaching, loving fellowship, Prayer, transformative Worship and development of spiritual gifts to enhance the ministry of the church.The ministry offers a wide range of resources to the community, from food to educational grants and financial assistance to the poor and needy.they also offer and minister through bible studies, prayer meetings, annual community events, youth programs and camping opportunities.

MISSION CENTRAL HUBS OF EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA ......................................................... $6,000Applicant: Jeanne Earnshaw29 East Maple Street, Cleona PA 17042.Phones: 717-272-8663, 717-270-5445, 717-926-2305.Email: [email protected] Located throughout the annual conference, this is a branch of the Mission Central.They work to provide a forum for local ministries to connect with each other shar5ing their stories, time and resources to meet needs. They also help in developing connections with VIM and UMCOR, they assemble the various kits, distribute them through missions and agencies around the globe. Their ministry is both Local and International.

NEW JOURNEY COMMUNITY OUTREACH INC. ......................................................................... $10,000Applicant: Susan KrallContact Info:Susan Krall138 S, 6th Street, Reading, PA 19602




Phones: Off- 610-375-2662, Res: 610-987-3803.,Fax: 610-375-3060.Email: [email protected] is a state approved corporation designed to meet the needs of low income persons in the city of Reading. The approach is to help and elevate people from poverty and minimize lure of human trafficking, prostitution and drugs etc.The soup kitchen serves around 180 persons, The food pantry helps around 80 families and around 50 persons with clothing each week. Plan to offer ESL, nutrition classes and financial counseling.

SERENITY HOUSE ......................................................................................................................... $12,000Applicant: Rev. Robin HynickaContact info:Wilhelmina Young55 N Broad Street, Philadelphia PA 19107Phones: 21--568-6250, 215-227-4034, Fax: 215-568-2256.Email: [email protected] The ministry is a holistic, spiritual, healing arts endeavor, providing a sacred space for people from all walks of life to share their stories, and experiences of transformation and finding expression for their creativity and inspire each other.

SHALOM PARTNERSHIP OF LANCASTER INC. ......................................................................... $10,000Applicant: Rev. Jacquie SheelyP.O. Box 6084 Lancaster PA 17607.140 Way Point Drive, Lancaster PA 17603.Phones: 717-270-1525.Email: [email protected] This ministry has been operating for the past 24 years mentoring and teaching elementary and school aged children in Lancaster school district. The focus is on small group one-on-one method of mentoring. They also offer summer enrichment programs during summer, they have partnered with 8 schools and they seek to expand to all 13 schools in the district. Their ministry is to those who are in poverty and resource them to attend camps, special programs. The content of their programs cover, science, technology, media, and the arts.

SPIRITUAL RENEWAL MINISTRIES ............................................................................................. $10,000Applicant: The Rev. Sara J. Davis ShappellP.O. Box 724 Southeastern PA 19399.Phones: 610-873-3988, 610-873-8328, Cell: 610-613-6253.Email: [email protected] ministry has been operational for over 23 years as an integral part of EPC. The ministry partners with churches, groups and individuals who are seeking a deeper relationship with God. They offer scholarships, Retreats and seminars for spiritual formation and living as the people of God

RESOLUTION #2016 – 03 (Approved on Consent Calendar)Relating to Rental/Housing Allowances for Retired or Disabled ClergypersonsPresented by Board of Pension and Health Benefits

WHEREAS, the religious denomination known as The United Methodist Church (the “Church”), of which this Conference is part, has in the past functioned and continues to function through ministers of the gospel (within the meaning of Internal Revenue Code section 107) who were or are duly ordained, commissioned, or licensed ministers of the Church (“Clergypersons”);

WHEREAS, the practice the Church and of this Conference was and is to provide active Clergypersons with a parsonage or a rental/housing allowance as part of their gross compensation;

WHEREAS, pensions or other amounts paid to retired and disabled Clergypersons are considered to be deferred compensation and are paid to retired and disable Clergypersons in consideration of previous active service;

WHEREAS, the Internal Revenue Service has recognized the Conference (or its predecessors) as the appropriate organization to designate a rental/housing allowance for retired and disabled Clergypersons who are or were members of this Conference.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that an amount equal to 100% of the pension or disability payments received from plans authorized under The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church (“the Discipline”), which includes all such payments from the General Board of Pension and Health Benefits (“GBOPHB”), during the year 2017 by each retired or




disabled Clergyperson who is or was a member of the Conference, or its predecessors, be and hereby is designed as a rental/housing allowance for each such Clergyperson; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the pension and disability payments to which this rental/housing allowance applies will be any pension or disability payments from plans, annuities, or funds authorized under the Discipline, including such payments from the GBOPHB and from a commercial annuity company that provides an annuity arising from benefits accrued under a GBOPHB plan, annuity, or fund authorized under the Discipline, that result from any service a Clergyperson rendered to this Conference or that a retired or disabled Clergyperson of this Conference rendered to any local church, annual conference of the Church, general agency of the Church, other institution of the Church, former denomination that is now a part of the Church, or any other employer that employed the Clergyperson to perform services related to the ministry of the Church, or its predecessors, and that elected to make contributions to, or accrue a benefit under, such a plan, annuity, or fund for such retired or disabled Clergyperson’s pension or disability as part of his or her gross compensation.

NOTE: The rental/housing allowance that may be excluded from a Clergyperson’s gross income in any year for federal income tax purposes is limited under Internal Revenue Code section 107(2) and regulations there under to the least of: (1) the amount of the rental/housing allowance designated by the Clergyperson’s employer or other appropriate body of the Church (such as this Conference in the foregoing resolutions) for such year; (2) the amount actually expended by the Clergyperson to rent or provide a home in such year; or (3) the fair rental value of the home, including furnishings and appurtenances (such as a garage), plus the cost of utilities in such year.

Person responsible for presenting resolution: Barry Rose

RESOLUTION #2016 – 04 (Approved on Consent Calendar)Pertaining to the Adoption Agreement to the Clergy Retirement Security Program (CRSP) for the Year 2016Presented by Board of Pension and Health Benefits

BE IT RESOLVED, that the Adoption Agreement shall be applicable to the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference and, unless another date is specified below, shall be effective as of January 1, 2017: The Clergy Retirement Security Program shall be the base retirement plan for the clergy persons under Episcopal appointment including deacons and members of other denominations serving at the conference, church, charge, conference responsible unit, conference controlled entity including clergy on incapacity leave receiving Comprehensive Protection Plan (CPP) disability benefits of the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference in accordance to the plan adoption agreement beginning on January 1, 2017. Clergy persons on incapacity leave and not receiving Comprehensive Protection Plan (CPP) disability benefits are not eligible to participate in CRSP.

FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED, that on January 1, 2017 the ministerial pension rate for past service prior to January 1, 1982 shall be $502.00 and the personal contributor’s annuity derived from pre-1982 contributions shall apply toward the payment of the participants formula benefit;

AND FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED, that the surviving spouse benefit shall be 70% of the participant’s formula benefit;AND FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Pension and Health Benefits is authorized to make annual

deposits at the end of each calendar year as required by the General Board of Pension and Health Benefits for the purpose of funding for past service prior to January 1, 1982.


RESOLUTION 2016 - 05 (Approved at Adjourned Session)Resolution Concerning a Comprehensive Funding Plan for Benefit Obligations Presented by Board of Pension and Health Benefits

WHEREAS, Paragraph 1506.8 of the 2012 Book of Discipline requires that each Annual Conference shall develop, adopt and implement a formal funding plan for funding all of its benefit obligations;

WHEREAS, Paragraph 1506.8 of the 2012 Book of Discipline further states that the funding plan shall: 1. Address the funding for liabilities;2. Be approved annually by the Annual Conference, following receipt and inclusion of a favorable opinion from the

General Board of Pension and Health Benefits; and 3. Meet the minimum standards established by the General Board of Pension and Health Benefits for all benefit

liabilities;WHEREAS, The General Board of Pension and Health Benefits has developed a spreadsheet template with which all

Annual Conferences are to develop and submit their funding plans in a uniform format;WHEREAS, The Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference staff and the Conference Board of Pension and Health

Benefits have developed the Comprehensive Funding Plan for 2017, a summary of which is attached as Exhibit A (the




detailed plan is available on the conference website and is included in the Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits annual report);

WHEREAS, Exhibit A has been submitted to the General Board of Pension and Health Benefits for review and a favorable opinion has been issued; a copy of which is included as Exhibit B;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference adopts Exhibit A as its Comprehensive Funding Plan for 2017.


RESOLUTION #2016 – 06 (Approved)Resolution Relating to the Discontinuance of Spring City United Methodist Church Presented by the Central District of the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference

WHEREAS, The Spring City United Methodist Church in Spring City, Pennsylvania, founded in 1845 has a long and proud history of serving the people of Spring City; and

WHEREAS, the Spring City United Methodist Church voted on October 18, 2015 to discontinue the church on January 31, 2016; and

WHEREAS, the Spring City United Methodist Church contact the Central District Office of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference to inform the Superintendent of the congregation’s decision to close as of January 31, 2016; and

WHEREAS, Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference Board of Trustees was granted full responsibility for the care and disposal of its assets,

THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Spring City United Methodist Church discontinue, effective January 31, 2016.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the assets resulting from the sale of the property and other remaining assets held by the Spring City United Methodist Church be distributed by the Trustees of the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference as they deem appropriate.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that historical records and communion ware be forwarded to the archives of St. George’s United Methodist Church in Philadelphia, PA.

Person responsible for presenting resolution: Rev. Dr. Anita Adams Powell and Rev. Dennis Keen

RESOLUTION #2016 – 07 (Approved)Resolution Supporting Access to Driver’s Licenses for Undocumented PennsylvaniansPresented by Calvary United Methodist Church, Arch St United Methodist Church and the Eastern PA Conference Immigration Rapid Response Team

WHEREAS, The United Methodist Church believes that all persons are equally valuable in the sight of God and that it is the responsibility of the church to demonstrate that belief.

WHEREAS, the estimated 200,000 undocumented immigrants in Pennsylvania are denied access to driver’s licenses preventing them from driving to work, school, healthcare appointments and stores and shops of all kinds, thus impeding them from caring for their own families and neighbors as well as making a significant contribution to the local economy.

WHEREAS, the opportunity for undocumented immigrants to drive legally includes passing a driver’s test and obtaining automobile insurance thus making roads safer for all.

WHEREAS, The United Methodist Church has adopted resolutions and supported legislation that offer God’s love and grace to welcome immigrants, oppose policies that threaten family unity and promote comprehensive immigration reform.

WHEREAS, common-sense legislation has been put forth in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in the form of HB 1450 to provide access to driver’s licenses for Pennsylvania residents regardless of immigration status in order to improve the Commonwealth’s economy, public safety, and the lives of immigrants.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that The United Methodist Church of Eastern Pennsylvania demonstrate support for HB 1450 which allows access to driver’s licenses for undocumented Pennsylvanians by authorizing the presenters of this resolution to send a copy of the resolution to the appropriate set of elected officials and recommends that United Methodist agencies, congregations and individuals endorse this legislation as it is introduced and communicate that endorsement to the appropriate elected officials.

Person Responsible for Presenting Resolution: Lauren Ballester, Calvary United Methodist Church, Judy Claude, Arch Street United Methodist, Ruth Daugherty and Rev. Lilian L. Cotto, Co-chairs of the Immigration Rapid Response Team of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference.




RESOLUTION #2016 - 08 (Approved)Resolution Relating to Endorsing Health Care Coverage for ALL Kids in PennsylvaniaPresented by EPC Church and Society Work Team

WHEREAS, the Social Principles of the United Methodist Church state that “health care is a basic human right”, and that “providing the care needed to maintain health, prevent disease, and restore health after injury or illness is a responsibility each person owes others and government owes to all”; and

WHEREAS, Public Citizens for Children and Youth have established a Dream Care Campaign to Cover ALL Kids, with guiding principles that state the following: “In 2016, every Pennsylvania child will qualify for public health insurance, either Medical Assistance or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). An estimated 38,000 Pennsylvania children are undocumented and ineligible for public coverage, and 24,000 of them are estimated to be uninsured. Numerous studies show that uninsured children fare far worse than insured children—experiencing poorer health in childhood, greater rates of avoidable hospitalizations and higher childhood mortality. Illinois, California, New York, Massachusetts, Washington State, Washington DC cover all children, and Pennsylvania can be the next.”

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Eastern Pennsylvania Conference agrees to be listed as an endorser of the Dream Care Campaign to Cover ALL Kids and agrees to mention Dream Care in appropriate communications; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Conference Secretary will notify Public Citizens for Children and Youth, 1709 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Sixth Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103, of the decision to endorse the campaign.

Person responsible for Presenting Resolution: Barbara E. Drake

RESOLUTION #2016 - 09 (Approved at Adjourned Session as Amended)RESOLUTION TO 2016 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SESSIONResolution Relating to Safe Sanctuaries PolicyPresented by the Safe Sanctuaries Committee

WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of the annual conference and every local church to take steps to protect the well-being of children, youth, and personnel who work with them in the ministries of the church, as well as to comply with all laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; and

WHEREAS, previous conference safe sanctuaries policies have quoted extensively from the Pennsylvania Child Protective Services Law; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania periodically revises its child protective services law; and WHEREAS, this proposed new policy removes quotations from sections of the law and instead requires that churches

comply with law as it is force at any given time:THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference adopt the following as its Safe

Sanctuaries: Reducing the Risk of Abuse in the Church Policy, which replaces all previous policies.Person Responsible for Presenting Resolution: Rev. James H. Wilkin

SAFE SANCTUARIESReducing the Risk of Abuse in the Church Policy

June 2016

PREAMBLEGod has called us to make our ministries safe, protecting our children from abuse and exploitation. God has also called

us to create communities of faith where children can be safe and grow strong. Jesus taught “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me,” (Mark 9:37 NRSV) and “If any of you put

a stumbling block before one of these little ones…it would be better for you if a great millstone were fastened around your neck and you were drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matthew 18:6 NRSV)

The Social Principles of The United Methodist Church state “…children must be protected from economic, physical, and sexual exploitation and abuse.” (Par. 162(D) 2012 Book of Discipline)

At each child’s baptism, we affirm our responsibility to their safety by our congregational response, pledging:“With God’s help, we will so order our lives after the example of Christ that this child, surrounded by steadfast love, may

be established in the faith, and confirmed and strengthened in the way that leads to life eternal.” (The Book of Worship, Baptismal Covenant, Congregational Pledge II)

Building on these foundations, we recognize that our faith calls us to offer hospitality and protection to all children, as well as those who are committed to ministering to them as volunteers and employees. Every 15 seconds, a child is abused or neglected. Often, abuse occurs in places where children feel safe – homes, schools, camps, and even churches. In over three quarters of reported cases, the victim was related to or acquainted with the abuser. In light of this, the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of The United Methodist Church has seen fit to establish this policy that can help to 1) prevent




such abuse from happening in our churches; 2) make our churches places where children can feel safer in disclosing abuse; and 3) protect the volunteers and employees that minister to our children.

It is the policy of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference that every church in the conference adopt a Safe Sanctuaries policy that conforms to the standards set forth in this conference policy. It is the policy of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference that all conference and district ministries with children comply with the standards set forth in this policy.

Not withstanding anything contained in this policy, it is the responsibility of every church in the conference to ensure that it is in compliance with all aspects of the Pennsylvania Child Protective Services Law (63 PA. C.S.A. 6301). In the event that the law conflicts with this policy, the law shall control.

SCREENING AND SELECTION OF STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS:

Screening Standards:All applicants for employment and/or volunteer service in which that applicant shall have contact with children in a

manner which, under Pennsylvania law currently in force and as enacted and amended in the future from time to time, requires the person to obtain background clearances shall complete the following prior to start of service:

1. Written Application –a written application that shall include at least the following information:a. Nameb. Addressc. Phone Numberd. Work/Volunteer Historye. Experience and skills related to the positionf. Two (2) personal, non-related references.

2. Background Checks – a. All background checks required by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania currently in force and

as enacted and amended from time to time.b. In addition to the above clearances, all employees and volunteers of the EPA conference camps shall

obtain all clearances required for accreditation by the American Camp Association.c. In addition to the above clearances, all employees and volunteers of the preschool centers operated by

an EPA church shall obtain all clearances required for their certificate of compliance by the Department of Education.

3. Acceptance of Notice Requirement – complete the acceptance of notice requirement acknowledgment that they have been informed of and will comply with Pennsylvania law that requires them to inform the church in writing of any arrest, conviction or child abuse report that would prohibit them from working with children.

4. References – at least two references from persons not related to the applicant shall be obtained and contacted for all new applicants for employment or volunteer service.

5. Relationship with Church – All prospective volunteer workers with children shall have an active relationship with the local church for at least six months before being allowed to be in a supervisory role in activities for children; or twenty four months of good standing at their previous church.

6. Records – All written records shall be confidential and shall be kept in a secure location with access restricted on a need to know basis. All files shall be maintained for three (3) years after service ends.

TRAINING:All persons who have direct contact with children shall participate in training as required under the laws of the

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania currently in force and as enacted and amended in the future from time to time.

SUPERVISION:Supervision procedures are designed to reduce the possibility of abuse or exploitation of children, and to protect staff

persons and volunteers form unfounded accusations.

Supervision Standards:Programs and ministries in the church that are licensed or accredited by a licensing or accreditation body or that have

formally adopted supervision procedures, and that receive pre-approval from the conference Board of Trustees shall follow their established requirements for the supervision children.

EPA conference camps shall follow the supervision standards required for accreditation by the American Camp Association.

All other programs and ministries of the church shall use the following standards for the supervision of children.




1. The two adult rule – Regardless of the size group, there will always be at least two adults present. This may include the presence of an adult ‘roamer’ who moves in and out of rooms/ministry activities.

2. No child will be left unsupervised while participating in a ministry activity/event.3. All ministry activities should occur in open view. Each room or space where ministry activities/events occur must

be open to public view. For example: enclosed spaces such as classrooms shall have a viewing window, a glass panel in the door, a ½ door configuration or an open door.

4. No person shall supervise an age group unless he/she is at least 18 years of age or older and is at least 5 years older than the children being supervised.

5. Ministry events involving transportation shall require a written consent form signed by the parent or guardian of the child.

REPORTING:Reporting of any allegation of child abuse shall be done in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of

Pennsylvania currently in force and as enacted and amended in the future from time to time.It is essential that all employees and volunteers who have contact with children in a manner which, under Pennsylvania

law currently in force and as enacted and amended in the future define them as a mandated reporter have a legal responsibility under the law to make a report directly to public child welfare officials any time they have reasonable cause to suspect abuse has occurred. Failure to comply with this requirement can lead to civil and/or criminal penalties for the employee or volunteer.

The District Superintendent shall be notified if the alleged perpetrator is a staff person or volunteer of the church.In the event that a member of the clergy becomes aware of suspected child abuse as a result of confidential

communication which is protected under 42 PA C.S. 5943 (relating to confidential communications to clergymen), the conference legal counsel should immediately be consulted.

PASTORAL RESPONSES FOR REPORTS OF ALLEGATIONS OF ABUSE:Any allegation of abuse requires a process to address responding to the victim, the alleged perpetrator, and the press.

The response must be quick, compassionate and unified. All allegations will be taken seriously. Pastoral response is NOT an investigation of the alleged abuse. The investigation is the responsibility of public officials

(child welfare and/or law enforcement). In all cases of reported abuse, there shall be cooperation with all official investigating agencies.

Response to victims of abuse:In the instance of any allegation of abuse, there shall be a reaching out to the victim and the victim’s family. Pastoral

resources shall be extended, and the conference I-Care Team can be contacted to assist in providing this service. The care and safety of the victim shall be considered the first priority. Response to the victim and the victim’s family shall be done in a positive and supportive manner.

The parents of the victim shall be notified and steps shall be taken to address the safety and well being of the child until the parent(s) arrive. NOTE: If one or both of the parents is the alleged abuser, the direction of the child welfare authorities shall be followed concerning notification of others.

Response to all alleged perpetrators of abuse:In the instance of an allegations of abuse there shall be a reaching out to the alleged perpetrator and the perpetrator’s

family. Pastoral resources shall be extended and the conference I-Care Team can be contacted to assist in providing this service. Response to the alleged perpetrator and the perpetrator’s family shall be done in a supportive way.

The alleged perpetrator shall immediately, yet with dignity and respect for their sacred worth, be removed from further involvement with children and advised that there has been an allegation of abuse. Details of the allegations of the abuse shall not be discussed with the alleged perpetrator at the time of removal. In any removal of a staff member or volunteer from any activity/ministry, care shall be taken to handle the removal in a discreet manner.

When it has been alleged that a member of the church staff or a volunteer, has committed an act of abuse, the staff member or volunteer shall be required to refrain from all ministry activities/events with children until the incident has been fully resolved by the appropriate state authorities and/or in accordance with the Book of Discipline.

At that time, a meeting shall be held with the employee or volunteer to discuss the incident(s) that led to the report being made. Even if the public agency determines the report to be unfounded, the church has the right to prohibit the volunteer or employee from resuming working in ministries with children based on the facts and circumstances available at that time.




Response to the Media:In consultation with the presiding bishop, the District Superintendent, the Conference Director of Communications and

pastor shall decide on a single spokesperson for contact with the public/media. All media requests for statements shall be directed to that spokesperson.Compliance:

Compliance with this policy shall be a matter of record at each annual Charge Conference.

RESOLUTION #2016 – 10 (Approved at Adjourned Session as Amended)RESOLUTION TO 2016 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SESSIONResolution Relating to Computer Network and Internet Access PolicyPresented by the Communications Ministry Team and the Safe Sanctuaries Committee

WHEREAS, computers, computer networks and other electronic devices provide employees and church members access to the vast information resources of the Internet with the intention of increasing productivity and enhancing church-related communication; and

WHEREAS, there is also justifiable concern that they can be misused, potentially violating laws, ordinances or other church policies, garnering negative publicity for the church and potentially exposing it to significant legal liabilities:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that all local churches in the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference require all users of church computer equipment and networks to comply with and sign the following policy.

Persons Responsible for Presenting Resolution: Rev. John Bletsch and Rev. James H. Wilkin

Computer Network and Internet Access Policy

The Internet is a worldwide network of computers that contains millions of pages of information. Users are cautioned that many of these pages include offensive, sexually explicit and inappropriate material. In general, it is difficult to avoid at least some contact with this material while using the lnternet. Even innocuous search requests may lead to sites with highly offensive content. Additionally, having an e-mail address on the lnternet may lead to receipt of unsolicited e-mail containing offensive content. Users accessing the lnternet do so at their own risk, and the local United Methodist Church of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference (the Church) is not responsible for material viewed or downloaded by users from the Internet. To minimize these risks, your use of the Internet at the Church is governed by the following policy:

PERMITTED USE OF INTERNET AND CHURCH COMPUTER NETWORK

The computer network is the property of the Church and should primarily be used for legitimate business and ministry purposes. The Church will decide what are legitimate business and ministry purposes. Users are provided access to the computer network to assist them in the performance of their jobs or for participation in their ministries. If Users access the Internet for personal reasons such use should be governed by the restrictions detailed below. All Users have a responsibility to use the Church’s computer resources and the Internet in a professional, lawful and ethical manner. Abuse of the computer network or the Internet may result in disciplinary action, including possible employment termination, and civil and/or criminal liability.

COMPUTER NETWORK USE LIMITATIONS

Prohibited uses The Church’s computer network may not be used to disseminate, view or store pornographic text or images, or any

other unauthorized materials. Employees may not use the Church’s Internet connection in excess for the purposes of gaming or entertainment if it impacts their ability to carry out their assigned duties or impacts another employee or ministry functions. Additionally, you may not use the computer network to display, store or send (by e-mail or any other form of electronic communication such as bulletin boards, chat rooms, Usenet groups, etc.) material that is fraudulent, harassing, embarrassing, sexually explicit, profane, obscene, intimidating, defamatory or otherwise inappropriate or unlawful. Furthermore, anyone receiving such materials should notify their supervisor immediately.

Illegal copying Users may not illegally copy material protected under copyright law or make that material available to others for

copying. Users are responsible for complying with copyright law and applicable licenses that may apply to software, files, graphics, documents, messages and other material you wish to download or copy. Users may not agree to a license or




download any material for which a registration fee is charged without first obtaining the express written permission of the Church, or it is within the understood prerogative of their assigned role and responsibilities at the church.

Communication of confidential and/or personal member information Unless expressly authorized to do so, Users are prohibited from sending, transmitting or otherwise distributing

confidential and/or personal member information, data or other confidential information belonging to the Church. Unauthorized dissemination of such material may result in severe disciplinary action as well as substantial civil and criminal penalties under state and federal laws.

DUTY NOT TO WASTE COMPUTER RESOURCES

Accessing the Internet To ensure security and avoid the spread of viruses, Users accessing the Internet through a computer attached to the

Church’s network must do so through an Internet firewall or other security device. Bypassing the Church’s computer network security by accessing the Internet directly by modem or other means is strictly prohibited unless the computer you are using is not connected to the Church’s network.

System PasswordsUnless expressly authorized to do so, users are prohibited from sharing or distributing passwords to the church’s

network, computers or internet accounts.

Frivolous use Computer resources are not unlimited. Network bandwidth and storage capacity have finite limits, and all Users

connected to the network have a responsibility to conserve these resources. As such, Users must not deliberately perform acts that waste computer resources or unfairly monopolize resources to the exclusion of others. These acts include, but are not limited to, any of the following examples when done in excess or inappropriately: sending unauthorized mass mailings or chain letters, spending excessive amounts of time on the Internet, playing games, engaging in online chat groups, uploading or downloading large files, accessing unauthorized streaming audio and/or video files or otherwise creating unnecessary loads on network traffic.

Virus detection Files obtained from sources outside the Church, including disks brought from home; files downloaded from the Internet,

newsgroups, bulletin boards or other online services; files attached to e-mail; and files provided by other users or vendors may contain dangerous computer viruses which may damage the Church’s computer network. Users should never download files from the Internet, accept e-mail attachments from outsiders or use disks from non-Church sources without first scanning the material with Church-approved virus checking software. If you suspect that a virus has been introduced into the Church’s network, notify the Church immediately.

NO EXPECTATION OF PRIVACY

Users are given computers and Internet access to assist them in the performance of their jobs. Users should have no expectation of privacy in anything they create, store, send or receive using the Church’s computer equipment. The computer network is the property of the Church and may be used only for Church purposes. Provisions shall be made to protect confidential communications between the pastor and members and constituents.

Waiver of privacy rights Users expressly waive any right of privacy in anything the User creates stores, sends or receives using the Church’s

computer equipment or Internet access. The User consents to allow any authorized Church personnel access to and review of all materials created, stored, sent or received by the User through any Church network or Church Internet connection.

Monitoring of computer and Internet usage The Church has the right to monitor and log any and all aspects of its computer system including, but not limited

to, monitoring Internet sites visited by Users, monitoring chat and newsgroups, and monitoring file downloads and all communications sent and received by Users.




Blocking sites with inappropriate content The Church has the right to utilize software that makes it possible to identify and block access to Internet sites containing

sexually explicit or other material deemed inappropriate in the workplace.

Acknowledgement of understanding I have read and agree to comply with the terms of this policy governing the use of the Church’s computer network. I

understand that violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action, including possible termination and civil and criminal penalties.

______________________________________________________Local United Methodist Church

_______________________________ ______________________ Signature Date

_______________________________ Printed name

RESOLUTION #2016 - 11 (Approved)RESOLUTION TO 2016 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SESSIONResolution Relating to Discontinuance of West Penn: Immanuel United Methodist Church Presented by the Rev. Gary Nicholson, Northwest District Superintendent

WHEREAS the West Penn: Immanuel United Methodist Church located in Schuylkill County was founded in 1857 and has had a long and proud history; and

WHEREAS the charge conference of the West Penn: Immanuel United Methodist Church voted on September 27, 2015, to discontinue the church as of December 31, 2016; and

WHEREAS the district superintendent and the NW District Board of Church Location and Building have recommended discontinuance of West Penn: Immanuel United Methodist Church and the sale of the property; and

WHEREAS the consent to discontinue has been granted by the presiding bishop and a majority of the district superintendents, and all proper Disciplinary requirements have been complied with:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the West Penn: Immanuel United Methodist Church be discontinued effective December 31, 2015; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Trustees of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference distribute the assets resulting from the sale of the property and other remaining assets held by the West Penn: Immanuel United Methodist Church, following the guidelines of the Book of Discipline and the actions of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that historical records be forwarded to the archives of the St. George’s United Methodist Church in Philadelphia, PA.

PRESENTED BY: the Rev. Gary Nicholson, Northwest District Superintendent

RESOLUTION #2016 - 12 (Approved)Resolution Relating to Discontinuance of William Penn United Methodist Church Presented by the Rev. Gary Nicholson, Northwest District Superintendent

WHEREAS the William Penn United Methodist Church located in Schuylkill County was founded in 1882 and has had a long and proud history; and

WHEREAS the charge conference of the William Penn United Methodist Church voted on October 14, 2015, to discontinue the church as of December 31, 2016; and

WHEREAS the district superintendent and the NW District Board of Church Location and Building have recommended discontinuance of William Penn United Methodist Church and the sale of the property; and

WHEREAS the consent to discontinue has been granted by the presiding bishop and a majority of the district superintendents, and all proper Disciplinary requirements have been complied with:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the William Penn United Methodist Church be discontinued effective December 31, 2015; and




BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Trustees of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference distribute the assets resulting from the sale of the property and other remaining assets held by the William Penn United Methodist Church, following the guidelines of the Book of Discipline and the actions of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference; and


PRESENTED BY: the Rev. Gary Nicholson, Northwest District Superintendent

RESOLUTION #2016 – 13 (Approved on Consent Calendar)Resolution Regarding Equitable Compensation Recommendation for 2017Presented by Commission on Equitable Compensation

WHEREAS, it is a mandate of the Commission on Equitable Compensation to support clergy serving as pastors in the charges of the Annual Conference by recommending conference standards for pastoral support (¶625.2(a), 2012 Discipline), and

WHEREAS, the Commission is charged with annually recommending to the Annual Conference a schedule of minimum base compensation for all full-time pastors and elders in full connection appointed to less than full-time service to a local church (¶625.3, 2012 Discipline), and

WHEREAS, the Commission seeks to address the concerns of clergy compensation and recognize the economic difficulties encountered by churches,

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Annual Conference establish the minimum starting salaries reflecting a 2% increase for 2017. The schedule for persons under appointment in the local church for 2017 shall be as follows:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church establishes the minimum base salary for persons under appointment in the local church for the year 2017 as follows:

a) Elders and Deacons in Full Connection ....................................................................................... $41,106b) Commissioned toward Deacons and Elders under full-time post-seminary appointments .......... $38,964c) Associate Members .......……....................................………………….......................................... $38,148d) Full-Time Local Pastors ............................................................................................................... $36,108BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that to arrive at the minimum cash salary for each pastor, the required service year

increments will be added to the appropriate base listed above in the amount of 1% of the pastor’s base salary for each year of service under appointment, whether part time or full time, for a maximum of 20 years; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that each church or charge, in recommending increases, consider increases above the minimum cash salary, and that Pastor/Staff-Parish Relations Committees particularly take note of such areas as education, experience, skills, commitment, amount paid by clergy to Social Security as self-employed persons, family needs, and payment of health insurance; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that any amount provided as a housing allowance is not to be considered part of the minimum cash salary as set forth in this resolution (¶252.4(e), 2012 Discipline); and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that if a church or charge cannot meet the standard of support for a full-time pastor, the Cabinet will be notified as soon as possible and appropriate action taken by the Cabinet (¶624.1, 2012 Discipline).

Person Responsible for Presenting Resolution: Lou Hornberger

RESOLUTION #2016 – 14 (Tabled until General Conference acts)Resolution: Relating to Full Inclusion of LGBTQ Persons in The United Methodist Church: Marriage EqualityPresented by Arch St. UMC, Calvary UMC First UMC of Germantown, Historic St. George’s UMC, First UMC of Me-dia, Drexel Hill UMC, Swarthmore UMC, St. Luke UMC of Bryn Mawr, Penns Park UMC, Grandview UMC Lancaster, Chestnut Hill United Church, and Union UMC of Havertown.

WHEREAS, in John 14 (NRSV) we read these words, “Do not let your hearts be troubled, believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places.” and “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever. This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because he abides with you and he will be in you.”

WHEREAS, in Matthew 12 (NRSV) we read these words, “Whoever speaks against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven either in this age or in the age to come.”

WHEREAS, in Mark 10 (NRSV), we read these words, “Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.”

WHEREAS, in Luke 10 (NRSV), we read these words, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.”




WHEREAS, in John 4 (NRSV), we read, “When was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you? And the king will answer them, Truly, I tell you, just as you did it to one of least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.”

WHEREAS, in the passages above, Jesus proclaims that his household has room for all who seek to follow the Great Commandment and seek to accept the gift of the Holy Spirit.

WHEREAS, in the passages above, in welcoming strangers, children and social outcasts, Jesus proclaims the Good News that no one is without the potential, promise, and permission to praise God to proclaim the truth and to practice the faith. So when Jesus announces “I am the way and the truth and the life.” In John 14 (NRSV), he calls forth the sacred name of God “I AM, Who I Am,” the name that includes the sacred being of us all.

WHEREAS, LGBTQ persons have a dwelling place in the company of Jesus and hold claim to great gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Therefore Be It Resolved that the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church supports the right of lesbian and gay persons to marry each other in civil and religious ceremonies.

Be it further resolved that the Conference supports the decision of the clergy and congregations of the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference who perform or hold such ceremonies; and the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference supports the decision of clergy and congregations who do not perform or hold such ceremonies.

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference encourages its bishop to resolve complaints or charges about same-sex weddings through the Supervisory Response (¶ 363.1(b)) -- especially by means of a Just Resolution process (¶363.1(c)) -- and avoid moving the same to Church Trials.

Person responsible for presenting the motion: Rev. Sukja Bang

RESOLUTION #2016 – 15 (Tabled)Resolution: Relating to Full Inclusion of LGBTQ Persons in The United Methodist Church: -- Ordination EqualityPresented Arch St. UMC, Calvary UMC First UMC of Germantown, Historic St. George’s UMC, First UMC of Media, Drexel Hill UMC, Swarthmore UMC, St. Luke UMC of Bryn Mawr, Penns Park UMC, Grandview UMC Lancaster, Chestnut Hill United Church, and Union UMC of Havertown.

WHEREAS, in John 14 (NRSV) we read these words, “Do not let your hearts be troubled, believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places.” and “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever. This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because he abides with you and he will be in you.”

WHEREAS, in Matthew 12 (NRSV) we read these words, “Whoever speaks against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven either in this age or in the age to come.”

WHEREAS, in Mark 10 (NRSV), we read these words, “Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.”

WHEREAS, in Luke 10 (NRSV), we read these words, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.”

WHEREAS, in John 4 (NRSV), we read, “When was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you? And the king will answer them, Truly, I tell you, just as you did it to one of least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.”

WHEREAS, in the passages above, Jesus proclaims that his household has room for all who seek to follow the Great Commandment and seek to accept the gift of the Holy Spirit.

WHEREAS, in the passages above, in welcoming strangers, children and social outcasts, Jesus proclaims the good news that no one is without the potential, promise and permission to praise God to proclaim the truth and to practice the faith. So when Jesus announces “I am the way and the truth and the life.” In John (NRSV), he calls forth the sacred name of God “I AM, Who I Am,” the name that includes the sacred being of us all.

WHEREAS, LGBTQ persons have a dwelling place in the company of Jesus and hold claim to great gifts of the Holy Spirit.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church supports all candidates who present themselves for consideration for Ordination, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Conference recommends its District Committees on Ministry and Board of Ordained Ministry to interview all candidates for Ordination, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Person responsible for presenting the resolution: Rev. Lydia Munoz




RESOLUTION #2016 – 16 (Approved)Resolution Supporting HB1510/SB974 in the Pennsylvania LegislaturePresented by Arch St. UMC, Calvary UMC First UMC of Germantown, Historic St. George’s UMC, First UMC of Media, Drexel Hill UMC, Swarthmore UMC, St. Luke UMC of Bryn Mawr, Penns Park UMC, Grandview UMC Lancaster, Chestnut Hill United Church, and Union UMC of Havertown.

WHEREAS, the Pennsylvania Fairness Act (House Bill 1510 (HB 1510) / Senate Bill 974 (SB 974) are under consideration by both houses of the Pennsylvania Legislature, and

WHEREAS, these bills seek to amend the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to ensure freedom from discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodation based on sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and

WHEREAS, paragraph 162J of the 2012 Book of Discipline commits The United Methodist Church to supporting “basic human rights and civil liberties … for all persons, regardless of sexual orientation,” and

WHEREAS, that same paragraph includes “equal protection before the law” amongst such basic rights and liberties, and

WHEREAS, Bishop Peggy Johnson has quoted paragraph 162J in support of these bills and has said that, “No one should be fired from their job, evicted from their home or refused services at a business because of their orientation or gender identity,” and

WHEREAS, these bills have been publicly supported by Lutheran, Presbyterian, Jewish, and Episcopalian congregations and faith leaders, and

WHEREAS, HB 1510 is co-sponsored by 84 State Representatives, SB 974 is co-sponsored by 25 State Senators, and there is bi-partisan support in both Houses of the Legislature, and

WHEREAS, Governor Wolf announced his support of these Bills during his campaign for office, has repeatedly called for their passage by the Legislature, and has pledged to sign them into law when passed;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference supports and encourages the passing of these Bills in the Pennsylvania Legislature and the signing of the resultant Law by Governor Wolf;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Conference encourages Bishop Johnson, through her ministry with United Methodist Advocacy PA, to continue to communicate this endorsement of these Bills by the Conference to Gov. Wolf and State Legislators.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Conference encourages all clergy and lay members of the Conference to contact their local legislators to communicate this support.

Person Responsible for presenting the Resolution: Rev. Andrea Brown

RESOLUTION #2016 – 17 (Approved as Amended)Resolution on Radical WelcomePresented Arch St. UMC, Calvary UMC First UMC of Germantown, Historic St. George’s UMC, First UMC of Media, Drexel Hill UMC, Swarthmore UMC, St. Luke UMC of Bryn Mawr, Penns Park UMC, Grandview UMC Lancaster, Chestnut Hill United Church, and Union UMC of Havertown

WHEREAS, the National Coalition for the Homeless reports that up to 43% of all homeless teens identify as LGBT, andWHEREAS, the Suicide Prevention Resource Center estimates that between 30% and 40% of all LGBT youth have

attempted suicide, andWHEREAS, rejection by families of origin and/or by churches is reported by many of these youth as the principal

reason for their homelessness or their suicide attempt, andWHEREAS, most United Methodist churches – regardless of their stand on the Book of Discipline and LGBT persons

– frequently state that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons are welcome in their local church for worship;THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference encourages all churches to

practice radical welcome to LGBT persons in specific and tangible ways.BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference invites the United Methodists of

Eastern Pennsylvania and other interested churches to participate as a welcoming presence at Philadelphia OutFest 2016.Person Responsible for presenting resolution: Rev. Herbert J. Snyder




RESOLUTION #2016 – 18 (Committed to the Bishop)Resolution on Religious FreedomPresented by Arch St. UMC, Calvary UMC First UMC of Germantown, Historic St. George’s UMC, First UMC of Me-dia, Drexel Hill UMC, Swarthmore UMC, St. Luke UMC of Bryn Mawr, Penns Park UMC, Grandview UMC Lancaster, Chestnut Hill United Church, and Union UMC of Havertown.

WHEREAS, paragraph 162J of the 2012 Book of Discipline commits The United Methodist Church to supporting “basic human rights and civil liberties … for all persons, regardless of sexual orientation,” and

WHEREAS, that same paragraph includes “equal protection before the law” amongst such basic rights and liberties, and

WHEREAS, several state legislatures are considering or have passed legislation which would limit their LGBT citizens’ freedom from discrimination in employment, housing, or public accommodation based on any individual’s, company’s or organization’s supposed right to “religious freedom,” and

WHEREAS, such legislation is a covert attempt to allow bigotry and discrimination under the guide of “religious freedom;”THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference formally denounces such

legislation in any state or jurisdiction because of the spurious use of the term “religious freedom” and because of the obviously discriminatory nature of such legislation.

Person responsible for presenting Resolution: Rev. Dr. David M Krueger

RESOLUTION #2016 – 19 (Approved as Amended)RESOLUTION TO THE 2016 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SESSIONResolution Relating to Policy Regarding Sexual Misconduct Involving AdultsPresented by the Conference ICARE Team

WHEREAS, we believe in the biblical truth that all persons are created in the image of God, and find this to be reason enough to treat all persons with respect and honor; and

WHEREAS, the United Methodist Church exists for the purpose of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world; and

WHEREAS, sexual misconduct within the church or involving persons who are a part of the church can, and often does, hinder this mission for all parties affected by it, whether connected directly to a congregation or not; and

WHEREAS, our congregations and pastors look to this body to provide policies of consistent, theologically and legally sound response to situations involving the variety of forms of sexual misconduct against adults which may occur in our congregations and communities; and

WHEREAS, the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference has already adopted an updated policy, known as Safe Sanctuaries, dealing with abuse of children and youth:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference adopts the attached policy statement to replace our current Sexual Harassment Policy and govern how our Conference and congregations deal with alleged incidents of sexual misconduct in their midst involving adult victims.

Person Responsible for Presenting Resolution: Rev. Beverly T. Andrews

Policy on Sexual Misconduct Involving AdultsThis policy is meant to replace, in its entirety, the existing policy, titled Sexual Harassment in the Eastern Pennsylvania

Annual Conference Journal dated April 6, 1998.

PurviewThe purview of this policy is sexual misconduct involving any adult who is a clergyperson, employee, or volunteer of any

congregation, institution, organization, or agency of the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. This policy defines prohibited behaviors, reporting mechanisms, investigative duties, and a non-retaliation policy. Procedural guidelines to carry out this policy are found in separate documents, including but not limited to the United Methodist Book of Discipline, which includes a list of chargeable offenses. The guidelines for the prohibition of sexual misconduct involving a minor (under 18 years of age) are set forth in the EPA Conference Safe Sanctuary Policy, a separate document.

PurposeThe EPA Conference is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and nurturing environment in keeping with God’s

sacred trust. The EPA Conference bears affirmative responsibility to create an environment of hospitality for all persons that encourages respect, equality and kinship in Christ. Sexual misconduct (including sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and sexual exploitation) violates the mission of the church to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.




The EPA Conference provides procedures for reporting and responding to allegations of sexual misconduct by persons in ministerial roles (both lay and clergy, paid and volunteer, see Book of Resolutions 2012, p. 137, for examples), who have the responsibility to avoid actions and words that hurt others, but also to protect the vulnerable against actions or words, that cause harm. The EPA Conference will not condone or tolerate instances of sexual misconduct, and is committed to procedural justice and pastoral concern through a fair process of justice making for victims and survivors, real accountability for abusers, and healing for all parties, including affected congregations.

The EPA Conference commits itself to provide appropriate educational materials and training opportunities regarding the prevention of incidences of sexual misconduct, reporting and responding to incidences of sexual misconduct should they occur, and the details of this policy.

Definitions, According to the United Methodist General Conference“The continuum of behaviors called sexual misconduct within the ministerial relationship represents an exploitation of

power and not merely ‘inappropriate sexual or gender-directed conduct.’ Sexual misconduct in any form is unacceptable in church and ministry settings whether it is clergy-to-lay, lay-to-clergy, clergy-to-clergy, lay-to-lay, staff-to-staff, staff-to-volunteer, volunteer-to-volunteer, or volunteer-to-staff. Anyone who works or volunteers under the authority or auspices of the Church must be held to the highest standards of behavior, free of sexual misconduct in any form.” (Book of Resolutions 2012, p. 137)

“Sexual misconduct within ministerial relationships is a betrayal of sacred trust. It is a continuum of sexual or gender-directed behaviors by either a lay or clergy person within a ministerial relationship (paid or unpaid). It can include child abuse, adult sexual abuse, harassment, rape or sexual assault, sexualized verbal comments or visuals, unwelcome touching and advances, use of sexualized materials including pornography, stalking, sexual abuse of youth or those without capacity to consent, or misuse of the pastoral or ministerial position using sexualized conduct to take advantage of the vulnerability of another.” (Book of Resolutions 2012, p. 136)

“Sexual harassment [is] any unwanted sexual comment, advance, or demand, either verbal or physical that is reasonably perceived by the recipient as demeaning, intimidating, or coercive. … Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to, the creation of a hostile or abusive working environment resulting from discrimination on the basis of gender.” (Book of Discipline 2012, ¶161.I) “[I]t is unwanted sexual or gender-directed behavior within a pastoral, employment, ministerial (including volunteers), mentor, or colleague relationship that is so severe or pervasive that it alters the conditions of employment or volunteer work or unreasonably interferes with the employee or volunteer’s performance by creating a hostile environment that can include unwanted sexual jokes, repeated advances, touching, displays, or comments that insult, degrade, or sexually exploit women, men, elders, children, or youth.” (Book of Resolutions 2012, p. 136)

“Sexual abuse [in ministry] is a form of sexual misconduct and occurs when a person within a ministerial role of leadership (lay or clergy, pastor, educator, counselor, youth leader, or other position of leadership) engages in sexual contact or sexualized behavior with a congregant, client, employee, student, staff member, coworker, or volunteer.” (Book of Resolutions 2012, p. 136) Sexual abuse within the ministerial relationship involves a betrayal of sacred trust, a violation of the ministerial role and exploitation of those who are vulnerable.

Sexual misconduct may occur in many forms, including but not limited to face-to-face interactions or through print, electronic and/or social media. Furthermore, “the use of pornography in church programs, on church premises or with church property by persons in ministerial roles (lay and clergy) is a form of sexual misconduct.” (Book of Resolutions 2012, p. 162)

Specific Interpretations (illustrative, not exhaustive) Dating, romantic, or sexual relationships by persons appointed or assigned by the bishop

The question of whether it is acceptable for a ministerial leader to engage in a dating, romantic, or sexualized relationship with a parishioner continues to be the subject of much debate. Nevertheless, the EPA Conference is clear that such relationships between clergy and their parishioners inherently distort the ministerial relationship and “are never appropriate because of imbalance of power” (see concurring opinion to Judicial Council Decision 1228).

Therefore, the EPA Conference considers it an act of sexual misconduct for a clergyperson, certified lay minister, or other person appointed or assigned by the bishop to enter into a dating or romantic relationship with a parishioner. For the sake of maintaining healthy boundaries and preventing a betrayal of sacred trust, a ministerial leader who has a genuine desire to date a parishioner must contact their District Superintendent, and in consultation with the District Superintendent, determine a reasonable course of action for discontinuing the pastor/parishioner relationship before beginning a dating relationship.

Lay harassment of clergy (Book of Discipline 2012, paragraph 605.9)Clergy are generally considered to be in positions of power due to their professional role as spiritual leaders within

a church. There are, however, situations in which professing members of a church have the power to create a hostile or




abusive environment that undermines the ministry of the clergy person. Sexual or gender harassment of clergy, or indeed any relationship and/or behavior that undermines the ministry of persons serving within an appointment, is a chargeable offense for laity (Book of Discipline 2012, paragraph 2702.3).

Use of pornography (Book of Discipline 2012, paragraph 2702.1 and 2702.3; and specifically, Book of Resolutions 2012, pp. 155-63.])

The Social Principles of the United Methodist Church (Book of Discipline 2012 paragraph 161F and H) include this statement: “We deplore all forms of the commercialization, abuse, and exploitation of sex.” As a church, we affirm the image of God in every human being and our sexuality as a good gift of God. The use, participation in, or production of pornographic materials in any way, shape or form, in any location including on private communication devices constitutes an objectification of a child of God, and is a serious denial of the image of God in the persons involved. The Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference deplores the use and dissemination of pornography in any setting.

Reporting Any person who has credible reason to believe that a violation of this policy has occurred should bring the matter to

the attention of the Bishop or a District Superintendent. (For reporting abuse of children and youth, see EPA Safe Sanctuary Policy.) Every complaint of sexual misconduct shall be taken very seriously. Nothing in this policy requires the person alleging sexual misconduct to report the matter to the individual who is the subject of the allegation. See Book of Discipline 2012, paragraph 363 for specific procedures for filing and handling complaints. The General Commission on the Status and Role of Women offers guidance; see www.umsexualethics.org.

Investigations and PrivacyThe EPA Conference is committed to a prompt and thorough investigation of allegations and appropriate corrective

action, in compliance with the Book of Discipline and state law. It is intended that the privacy of the persons involved be protected, except to the extent necessary to conduct a proper investigation and to appropriately respond. The EPA Conference will cooperate fully in any criminal investigation conducted by a law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the matter.

Non-retaliationEvery complaint of sexual misconduct shall be taken very seriously. Retaliation against anyone who reports an act

of ministerial misconduct in good faith will not be tolerated and will be handled through appropriate discipline. However, individuals who make false, frivolous, or malicious complaints will be held accountable.This is a policy statement of The Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference, approved and updated on ____________.Note: For more information about this policy, contact the local District Superintendent or the Conference Office at 610-666-9090 or www.epaumc.org.

RESOLUTION # 2016 – 20 (Approved at Adjourned Session as Amended)Resolution Establishing an Ad-Hoc Study Committee to Evaluate Alternative Fair Voting Methods for Electing Mem-bers to Committees and DelegationsPresented by Arch Street United Methodist Church

WHEREAS, The Constitution of The United Methodist Church calls for a “fair and open process” to elect members to serve on annual conference boards and commissions and for electing delegates to general conference (¶ 13. Article 1.2) but does not specify the method of election; and

WHEREAS, many elections at the annual conference level require numerous rounds of voting when nominees for an office or seat do not receive enough votes required to fill the seat – especially when electing general conference delegates – limiting the time available for the Body to discern important matters of faith and practice; and

WHEREAS, ranked choice voting ensures all participants have equal voice in electing one or more members to serve the Church by giving voting members the ability to rank candidates in order of preference; and

WHEREAS, ranked choice voting (also known as “preferential voting”) is the recommend voting method for Robert’s Rules of Order, and Robert’s Rules concludes that «It makes possible a more representative result than under a rule that a plurality shall elect.» (Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised In Chapter XIII §45. 11th edition, 2011, p. 425-28); and

WHEREAS, ranked choice voting has been used since the late 1800s and votes can be counted by hand or using modern voting technology; and

WHEREAS, ranked choice voting is a process of ranking nominees in order of preference (first choice, second choice, third choice, and so on). All first choices are counted, and nominees with the fewest votes are eliminated. If a voter member’s first choice is eliminated, their vote instantly goes to their next choice. Receiving a majority of votes elects nominees




for a single position and nominees for multiple positions (like a conference board or delegation) are elected based on a determined threshold in proportion to the number of votes as determined by the Droop quota. (See “Dropp Quota” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Droop_quota); and

WHEREAS, ranked ballots have been used for elections by organizations and in communities across the United States and around the world (including Portland, Maine, Minneapolis, Minnesota, the Australian House of Representatives, and the Republic of Ireland to elect its president) to ensure fair results that are representative of the voting body; (See “Where Ranked Choice Voting Is Used” http://www.fairvote.org/reforms/instant-runoff-voting/where-rcv-is-used-);

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference shall establish an ad-hoc committee that includes the input of the Bishop, Conference Secretary, and Election Judge along with conference members knowledgeable about different voting methods to study alternative voting methods for electing nominees when there are more than two nominees for a conference board position or when electing a delegation.

Person Responsible for Presenting the Resolution: Michelle C. Whittaker

Resolution 2016 – 21 (Approved)Relating to the Discontinuance of Park United Methodist Church of FreelandPresented by Northeast District of the Eastern PA Conference

WHEREAS, the Freeland: Park United Methodist Church of Luzerne County, founded in 1905 and first known as Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church founded in 1874, has a long and proud history of serving the people of Freeland,

WHEREAS, the Freeland: Park United Methodist Church contacted the Northeast District Office of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference on March 7, 2016 to inform the Superintendent of the congregation’s decision to close due limited resources and extreme decline in membership,

WHEREAS the district superintendent and the NE District Board of Church Location and Building have recommended discontinuance of Freeland: Park United Methodist Church and the sale of the property; and

WHEREAS, the Freeland: Park United Methodist Church voted at a special charge conference held on May 18, 2016 to discontinue the church on June 30, 2016,

WHEREAS the consent to discontinue has been granted by the presiding bishop and a majority of the district superintendents on May 19, 2016, and all proper Disciplinary requirements have been complied with:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Freeland: Park United Methodist Church will be discontinued effective June 30, 2016.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Trustees of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference distribute the assets resulting from the sale of the property and other remaining assets held by the Freeland: Park United Methodist Church, following the guidelines of the Book of Discipline and the actions of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference; and


Person responsible for presenting resolution: The Rev. Dr. Irving Cotto



- 502 -Annual Conference Reports

Board of Laity Report

Lay Leader Report to the 118th Annual Conference Of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference

It’s a great time to be a United Methodist in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference! I’m excited about the challenges and opportunities we have ahead of us. First, though, let’s look back briefly at the past year. The Board of Lay Ministry sponsored its usual events, The Lay Academy and Tools For Ministry.

The Lay Academy was attended by about 150 people including 40 first-timers, 85 Christ Servant Ministers, 17 Local Church Servants 4 Certified Lay Ministers and 1 clergyperson. The 10 instructors were clergy and, Certified Lay Minsters. Feedback from participants was enthusiastically positive. This year’s Lay Academy will be held again at The Inn At Reading on Saturday-Sunday, August 13-14, with ten different courses offered. Registration is now open. You can get additional information on courses offered and register at the Lay Academy table in the exhibition area. We’ve changed the format somewhat to a two-day event that only requires one overnight stay to reduce travel costs. How many of you have been to a Lay Academy? Raise your hands. If you haven’t been ask one of those who have about their experience.

Tools for Ministry was conducted in each District as is our practice and offered practical courses for local church leadership and outreach. The six sessions were held on Saturdays in March and April. Because of the timing I was able to attend in three different Districts. Feedback from all six was excellent, but I have to tell you about the Northeast District. They conducted a “Poverty Simulation” exercise in the morning with a follow-up discussion and then classes in the afternoon. The “Poverty Simulation” was not a game, but a surprisingly realistic simulation of what it is like to experience survival existence when you live at a poverty level. My eyes were opened to many aspects of poverty with which I have had no experience. If you ever have a chance to participate in or even observe a “Poverty Simulation” I strongly encourage you to do so. It may be a life changing experience.

The laity in our local churches continue to do ministry both inside and outside the walls of their buildings. West Lawn continues to feed thousands through their Kitchen ministry. My home church, Grove Church in West Chester, packaged 27,000 meals for Stop Hunger Now. Hopewell UMC continues its drama ministry presenting “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” in its 900 seat outdoor amphitheater. In fact tonight is opening night. I’m planning on going next weekend. Hopewell is a little off the beaten path, but if you go it will be well worth the trip.

There have been several celebrations also. Mid-Town Parish was able to work through all the regulatory paperwork and finally received its new buildings. They are in the process of getting everything connected and working in preparation for a grand dedication. My wife and I attended the Centennial celebration at Ross Street UMC in Lancaster. It was the first time I experienced a confirmation, an infant baptism, and communion all in the same service – and the Bishop preached, too. It was a joyous event.

My wife and I also attended 50th anniversary celebration service at Hancock UMC in Springfield, PA. While there we realized that Donna’s Aunt, Uncle and cousins attended Hancock when they lived in Springfield many years ago and that Donna had attended Hancock when visiting them.

Quite a year! And that doesn’t include any mention of General Conference.So where do we go from here? Look ahead and what do you see?

C H A N G E.

Change is coming. In the next year this conference could go from six Districts to four – or not. We could have a new Bishop – or not. (As it turned out we are blessed to retain Bishop Peggy Johnson for another four years.) Many of your churches are experiencing a pastoral change this year. That’s normal, but still disconcerting. Change can be difficult. Change can be unpleasant. We build up all this inertia in our lives and then, suddenly, there is change. New leaders, new direction, new ways of doing things, etc., etc. Change also brings new hope, new excitement, new challenges, and new opportunities. I’m looking forward to the changes coming in the next year, not because I’m dissatisfied with the status quo, but because the changes will present new opportunities for all of us.

How will you deal with change? I think it’s simple. I suggest you start with prayer, be positive and remember to focus on our primary purpose – to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world! In other words, “Keep the main thing, the main thing!” Everything else will pale in comparison.

Annual Conference Reports



- 503 - Annual Conference Reports

At Annual Conference I challenged each lay member to report to their congregation on what happened at Annual Conference and what they experienced. I challenged them to be positive and ask everyone to “Keep the Main Thing the Main Thing”. How are they doing?

Let me summarize. Last year was a great year! Changes are coming – or not, but probably. We should approach change positively. Lay members of Annual Conference need to communicate this to their congregations. And lastly, good news, bad news, whatever, we all need to “Keep the Main Thing the Main Thing -- Making Disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.”

It’s a great time to be a United Methodist in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference! Peace and Grace to you all!

David KochConference Lay Leader




Board of Pension and Health Benefits Report

MISSION STATEMENTThe mission of the Board of Pension and Health Benefits is to provide for and contribute to the support, relief, assistance

and pensioning of those individuals who have dedicated their lives to the ministry of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as members of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of The United Methodist Church and its Local Charges. These individuals include clergy and their families, church workers, and employees of the Annual Conference.

The Board of Pension and Health Benefits is committed to meeting its mission by:Administering the pension benefits to retired clergy within the guidelines of The Book of Discipline and the General

Board of Pension and Health Benefits;Maintaining health and life disability insurance to provide optimal protection for the participants at a reasonable cost;The responsible investing of monies necessary to meet the requirements of the pension and benefit funds, plans and

programs of the Annual Conference;Providing special grants to meet the basic daily needs of eligible individuals, their families, and survivors; and;Preparing individuals for retirement by informing them of strategies and opportunities available in the management of

their savings, income and pensions.

Members of the Annual Conference:The Board of Pension and Health Benefits is honored to be in ministry with the Eastern PA Annual Conference. We are

thankful for our Board members, consultants, and staff who continue working together on plans and programs that reflect the mission and vision of the Conference while remaining true to the goals and objectives of the Board’s mission statement.

2015 presented many challenges for the Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits, and we are blessed to have seen some important responses to these challenges.

The overwhelming response to the Eastern PA Conference Capital Campaign, Fulfilling Our Covenant, successfully gained pledges exceeding $3.9 million, and we are now in the final payment phase of this program. While a few churches elected a 5-year schedule of payments, the majority of churches will complete their payments by December 2016. We continue to remain on track to be 100% funded in 2021 for our Pre 1982 pension commitment. We are very grateful for the sacrificial giving of churches and conference members in meeting this financial obligation and honoring clergy and their spouses who served in our conference before 1982. The Past Service Rate (PSR) for 2016, used to calculate past pension obligations was held at $502 per year of service and will remain static until the conclusion of our capital campaign. We have been successful in reducing the unfunded liability from just over $11 million at the beginning of this campaign, to just over $6 Million at the end of 2015.

In 2015 the Board began planning for the development of a strategic plan and goal setting and will continue that process through 2016. In a landscape of financial struggle in our local churches, we continue to strive to meet our fiduciary responsibilities while limiting the financial stress to local churches and members. We are aggressively seeking members for our board – members who are open to possibilities and new ways to support our clergy both in active and retired service.

Health insurance remains volatile in today’s market, and a high priority to our Board. The High Deductible/Health Savings Account health insurance plan continues to operate efficiently in keeping costs manageable. Annual Conference approved a change to a privately organized exchange through Independence Blue Cross, offering three choices for level of coverage in 2016. The current climate of health care costs means we must put our plans out to bid annually.

Please keep all of our efforts in prayer as we seek clear direction, wisdom, and understanding in God’s will, as we serve our clergy and staff.

Jo FieldingExecutive Director, Eastern Pennsylvania Board of Pensions & Health Benefits

Investment CommitteeThe Investment Committee continued a policy of socially responsible investing, guided by the principles of the United

Methodist Church, using the firm of Kinder, Lydenberg, Domini & Co. Inc. to monitor the Board’s investments for social responsibility. All assets held by the Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits are invested by the Mid-Atlantic United Methodist Foundation in ways that capture most of the positive increases while minimizing participation in the market downturns. A listing of the Board’s holdings at the end of 2015 may be found later in this report. The Custodian of the Board’s funds continues to be Fulton Bank of Lancaster, PA. The full financial report, prepared by the Board’s auditors, Holmes and Simmons, PC, is on file in the Conference Office and available upon request.




There were sufficient assets in the balanced portfolio to meet the Board’s 2015 obligation for past service liability under the Pre-1982 Pension Plan. As of December 31, 2015, the Board had assets totaling $3,472,769.70. The unfunded liability for pre-1982 Pensions as of the same date was $6,875,802. The pension rate for past service was $502.00 for 2015. The Conference’s past service liability for Pre-82 pensions due by the end of 2015 was $1,583,976. This amount was paid in full from the Board’s assets, as we advanced the conference portion to CFA for 2015. The required contribution for 2016 will be $1,165,178.

The assets of the Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits have been reduced to mostly restricted funds. Because of positive results of recent investment returns, the Board will continue to fund one-fourth of the Pre-82 unfunded liability from its assets in 2015. The remaining three-fourths will be included in the direct bill to local churches. Beginning in 2017 we expect that the proceeds from the Conference-wide Capital Campaign and other Conference assets should be sufficient to fund one-fourth of the requirements.

Group Insurance CommitteeThe High Deductible Health Plan with a Health Savings Account (HSA) option continues to work well. Costs have been

manageable with only minor plan changes. Health Insurance reserves were reduced this year to allow an exit from the Standard Insurance Company, where we held our life insurance policy. We also covered a shortage in receipts for retiree insurance.

The Annual Conference approved a change to a private exchange through Independence Blue Cross, offering a choice of 3 plan options. A composite rate is still charged to the local church for each enrolled clergyperson; the bulk is charged via a composite rate to each participant. Dental, Vision, and a Critical Illness plan are available for a cafeteria enrollment with the cost for each invoiced to the member.

The Board continues to offer a walking program to encourage exercise and wellness. Our conference – while not a top performer regarding enrollments, does lead other conferences regarding the actual participation of those enrolled.

The Pre-funding Program for retiree health insurance was discontinued by a vote of the annual conference. We have moved to a subsidy based plan for our retirees and have outsourced the administration and group offering to AmWins, Inc.

Joint Committee on IncapacityThe Joint Committee on Incapacity works in conjunction with the Board of Ordained Ministry to review and make

recommendations on the capability of the clergy to perform their ministerial work because of incapacity due to health matters and disabling conditions. In 2015 one member was appointed to Medical Leave. In total, there are nine members on medical leave.

Necessitous Grants CommitteeThe Necessitous Grants Committee addresses a wide variety of needs with grants approved according to established

guidelines. In 2014, The Board received a total of $10,657 from local churches and conference members as donations to board assets. Also, Necessitous Grants totaling $ 42,570 have been provided. Requests need to be received in the form of a completed application (copies of which may be obtained from the Conference Office) and are reviewed by five committee members. Recommendations from the committee require approval by the full Board of Pension and Health Benefits.

Seminar CommitteeThe Seminar Committee plans and schedules events to educate participants in all the Board’s sponsored plans.

Workshops include “new hire” orientation for newly ordained clergy (in coordination with the Board of Ordained Ministry), pre-retirement and financial planning. In 2014 the Committee coordinated several visits to the Conference by representatives from the General Board of Pensions and Health Benefits to provide one-on-one pre-retirement counseling to individuals at all stages of their careers. Training for Board members by General Board staff was also conducted. We provided an educational opportunity for those retiring at the 2015 Annual Conference.

The highlight of the year was the annual retiree recognition luncheon. In 2015 this event was staged in May at the Episcopal residence. The ministries of 22 retiring clergy were celebrated. Each retiree received a hand thrown bowl made by Corey Johnson, a potter from Hopewell UMC.




Portfolio Positions Allocation Time December 31, 2015

Description Market Value Cost

Total Portfolio $3,472,769.70 $3,528,632.09

Description Quantity Price Market Value Cost % of MV

CASH & EQUIVALENTS $651,594.03 $651,594.03 18.76%

CASH $0.00 $0.00 0.00%

INCOME CASH 0.000 $1.00 $0.00 $0.00 0.00%

PRINCIPAL CASH 0.000 $1.00 $0.00 $0.00 0.00%

CASH EQUIVALENT $651,594.03 $651,594.03 18.76% GOSXX FEDERATED GOVT OBLIG MMF #395 (INCOME) INCOME HOLDING

183,142.660 $1.00 $183,142.66 $183,142.66 5.27%

GOSXX FEDERATED GOVT OBLIG MMF #395 (PRINCIPAL)

468,451.370 $1.00 $468,451.37 $468,451.37 13.49%

FIXED INCOME $1,064,606.69 $1,080,262.75 30.66%

CORPORATES $10,424.23 $10,222.78 0.30% 193908-AS-9 CMO TR 57 CL D 9.900% 02/01/19 9,602.090 $108.56 $10,424.23 $10,222.78 0.30%

MULTI-SECTOR $1,054,182.46 $1,070,039.97 30.36% 999410-00-4 MID-ATL UM FDN AGG FIXED INCOME FD

35,453.000 $9.91 $351,339.62 $353,814.02 10.12%

999400-00-5 MID-ATL UM FDN CORE FIXED INC FD

72,473.000 $9.70 $702,842.84 $716,225.95 20.24%

EQUITIES $1,756,568.98 $1,796,775.31 50.58%

MUTUAL FUNDS $1,756,568.98 $1,796,775.31 50.58%

LARGE CAP $1,030,589.01 $965,564.80 29.68% 999440-00-1 MID-ATL UM FDN CORE EQUITY FUND

21,784.000 $14.94 $325,400.00 $249,061.25 9.37%

999380-00-9 MID-ATL UM FDN GROWTH EQ FD 26,679.000 $13.69 $365,298.46 $365,251.72 10.52%

999390-00-8 MID-ATL UM FDN VALUE EQ FD 25,784.000 $13.18 $339,890.55 $351,251.83 9.79%

SMALL-MIDCAP $168,058.40 $197,464.20 4.84%




999430-00-2 MID-ATL UM FDN SMID CAP EQ FD 11,946.000 $14.07 $168,058.40 $197,464.20 4.84%

DEVELOPED INTERNATIONAL $386,338.82 $439,133.78 11.12% 999420-00-3 MID-ATL UM FDN INT'L EQ FD 56,079.000 $6.89 $386,338.82 $439,133.78 11.12%

EMERGING INTERNATIONAL $171,582.75 $194,612.53 4.94% 999450-00-0 MID-ATL UM FDN EMERGING MKT EQ FD

20,676.000 $8.30 $171,582.75 $194,612.53 4.94%

2016 Members of the Board of Pension and Health Benefits

Outside Professional Help Utilized:Custodian – Fulton Bank, Lancaster, PAInvestment Advice – Mid-Atlantic United Methodist Foundation, Inc.Monitor Investments on Social Responsibility Issues – Kinder, Lyndenberg, Domini & Co., Inc.Legal Counsel – Robert B. Shoemaker, Jr.Insurance Consultants – Willis Towers Watson, Consultants Independent Auditor – Holmes & Simmons, P.C.General Board of Pension and Health Benefits – Josie Martinez, Conference Liaison/ Education and

Plan Sponsor Relations; Frederick Hyland, Senior Actuary

EPA Conference Professional Help Utilized:Mrs. Jo Fielding, Executive Director, EPA Board of Pension and Health Benefits Mr. James Cruickshank - Eastern Pennsylvania Conference Treasurer Mrs. Madeline Gonzalez-Lopez, Support Associate – BenefitsMr. Jack Brooks - Executive Director Mid-Atlantic United Methodist Foundation, Inc.

Investment Guidelines Followed:2012 Book of Discipline, Paragraph 717 and Paragraph 11406.11 Social Principles of The United Methodist Church General Board of Pension and Health Benefits Approved Universe of Stocks - approved companiesInvestment Policies and Procedures of the Eastern Pa Conf. Board of Pension and Health Benefits

Board of Pension and Health BenefitsMr. Barry Rose. President & Investment Committee Chair, (L)The Rev. Coleen Painter, Vice President & Group Insurance Committee, Chair (L)TBD, Necessitous Grants Committee Chair The Rev. Dan Hepner, Joint Committee on Incapacity, Chair (L) The Rev. Tracy Bass, Cabinet Liaison and GBOPHB Board Member, (C) Mrs. Irene Dickinson, CFA Liaison, (L)Mr. Chuck Ehninger, (L)The Rev. Steven Handzel, (C)Mr. Walt Kanhoffer, (L)Mr. David Koch, (L)The Rev. Dr. Christopher Jacob Kurien, (C)The Reverend Kay Painter, (C)The Rev. Nancy Haigh Ross, (C)The Rev, Navin Satyavrata, (C)




INTRODUCTIONThe 2012 Book of Discipline ¶ 1506.6 requires that each annual conference develops, adopt and implement a formal

comprehensive funding plan for funding all of its benefit obligations. The funding plan shall be submitted annually to Wespath Benefits and Investments (Wespath) for review and be approved annually by the annual conference, following the receipt and inclusion of a favorable written opinion from Wespath. This document is only a summary of the information contained in the actual signed funding plan and does not contain all the information required for a comprehensive view of the conference’s benefit obligations. You may request the full contents of the 2017 comprehensive benefit funding plan from your conference benefit office.

CLERGY RETIREMENT SECURITY PROGRAM (CRSP)

Defined Benefit (DB) and Defined Contribution (DC)

Program overview: The Clergy Retirement Security Program (CRSP) is an Internal Revenue Code section 403(b) retirement program

providing lifetime income and account flexibility designed for those who serve as clergy of The United Methodist Church. The program is designed to provide participants with one portion of their overall retirement benefits. CRSP replaced the Ministerial Pension Plan (MPP) effective January 1, 2007, which had previously replaced the Pre-82 Plan for service rendered before January 1, 1982. CRSP consists of both a defined benefit (DB) plan, which provides a monthly benefit at retirement based on years of credited service to The United Methodist Church and a defined contribution (DC) plan, which provides a retirement account balance established and funded by the annual conferences.

Current funding plan information: The Clergy Retirement Security Program (CRSP-DB) annuities’ total liability as of January 1, 2015 is $1.271 billion,

while total plan assets are $1.407 billion, resulting in a current plan funded ratio of 111%. The Eastern Pennsylvania Conference portion of the liability is 1.6014% with a 2017 contribution of $1,530,733. The conference anticipates that the amount will be funded by Direct Billing - representing year over year in how contributions are to be funded. Additionally, General Conference 2012 approved a change to CRSP that provides each annual conference the discretion to determine whether to cover three-quarter and half-time clergy. The Eastern Pennsylvania Conference has elected to cover clergy serving 50%+ under CRSP effective January 1, 2017.

Effective January 1, 2014, the CRSP-DC plan was reduced from a 3% to a 2% of plan compensation non-matching contribution. Clergy have the opportunity to earn up to an additional 1% CRSP-DC contribution by contributing at least 1% of their plan compensation to UMPIP; therefore, if a participant contributes at least 1% of plan compensation to UMPIP, the individual will receive a contribution of 3%, which is unchanged from 2013. The 2017 CRSP-DC contribution is anticipated to be $370,000 and will be funded by this will be billed to local churches – representing year over year in how contributions are to be funded.

MINISTERIAL PENSION PLAN (MPP)

Plan overview: Supplement Three to the Clergy Retirement Security Program (CRSP), also known as the Ministerial Pension Plan

(MPP), provides clergy with a pension benefit for their years of ministry with The United Methodist Church from 1982 through 2006. MPP is an Internal Revenue Code section 403(b) retirement plan. Effective January 1, 2014, exactly 65% of the account balance must be annuitized when the funds are to be distributed. The remainder may be rolled over to UMPIP, into an IRA or another qualified plan, or it may be paid out as a lump sum.

Current funding plan information: The Ministerial Pension Plan (MPP) annuities’ total liability as of January 1, 2015, is $3.122 billion, while total plan

assets are $3.509 billion, resulting in a current plan funded ratio of 112% and no required contribution for 2017. The Eastern Pennsylvania Conference’s portion of the total liability is 1.6606%. Future MPP annuitants have a total account balance of $4.145 billion, and the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference’s portion of that balance is $69,391,467 or 1.67% of the total.

2017 Comprehensive Benefit Funding Plan Summary




PRE-1982 PLAN

Plan overview:Supplement One to the Clergy Retirement Security Program (CRSP), also known as the Pre-1982 Plan, provides

clergy with a pension benefit for their years of ministry with The United Methodist Church before 1982. The Pre-1982 Plan was replaced by MPP effective January 1, 1982. If a clergy person retires within the Conference (and does not terminate), the minimum benefit payable is based on two factors: 1) years of service with pension credit and 2) the Conference pension rate. Years of service with pension credit are approved by each Conference on the recommendation of the Conference Board of Pensions (CBOP) in accordance with plan provisions and the Book of Discipline. The pension rate also called the Past Service Rate (PSR), is the dollar amount chosen by the Conference as the amount payable for each approved year of service with pension credit. The pension rate may change from year to year. The number of years of service with pension credit is multiplied by the pension rate, and the product is the minimum annual benefit payable to those clergy eligible for Pre-1982 Plan benefits. In certain situations, the benefit received from the Pre-1982 plan may vary based on the applicability of what is referred to as Defined Benefit Service Money (DBSM), which is the defined contribution feature of the Pre-1982 Plan. At the time that a participant retires, the DBSM account is converted to a life-based benefit and, at that point, the clergy’s benefit is the greater of the PSR or DBSM benefit. If the conference increases the PSR, the clergy’s benefit is recalculated; but the DBSM based benefit does not change.

Current funding plan information: The 2017 PSR recommended to the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference will be $502.00, representing a 0% increase

from the 2016 rate. The conference expects future increases to be approximately 0%, which is based on the following rationale: The conference is investigating the use of a grant system rather than increasing the PSR.

The contingent annuitant percentage is recommended to remain at the 70% level.Based on the final actuarial valuations from Wespath as of January 1, 2015 for 2017, the portion of the Pre-1982 liability

and assets attributable to the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference and its related funded status are as follows:Funding Plan Liability $(24,936,228)Assets, including In-Plan and Outside 24,403,900Funded Status $(532,328)Funded Ratio 97.87%

ACTIVE HEALTH BENEFIT PROGRAM

Program Overview: The Eastern Pennsylvania Conference offers the following active health benefit to its eligible active participants:

Insured.

Current funding plan information: The total cost of the program for 2017 is anticipated to be $4,376,032 and will be funded by Composite rate billed to

local churches. It is anticipated that increases for future years will average 5.0% based on the following rationale: We changed the process for the collection of premiums in 2016. The local church now pays a lesser composite rate, and the participant pays the remainder due for coverage.

• Additional Conference Sponsored Coverage The Eastern Pennsylvania Conference has elected to provide health benefits coverage to the following groups during periods where without conference funded premiums the participants would not be provided coverage or benefits (all figures as of 12/31/2015):

Category Number of Participants Estimated Cost1. Clergy and/or lay participants on disability 9 $281,8802. Surviving spouses and children of

deceased clergy and lay participants 2 $13,4093. Clergy in the Voluntary Transition Program 1 $6,498

The total estimated cost of conference sponsored coverage as of 12/31/2015 is $301,787.




POST-RETIREMENT MEDICAL BENEFIT PROGRAM (PRM)

Program Overview: The Eastern Pennsylvania Conference post-retirement medical program currently offers a Stipend.

Current funding plan information: The conference’s expectation for 2017 is to offer the following benefits: Retiree health is outsourced and a stipend,

based on retirement date and years of service has been put in place as of 1/1/15. The funding obligation for 2017 is anticipated to be $891,651 with the following funding sources: Account assets and

new incoming askings. On a longer term basis, the conference intends to ensure funding by a combination of apportioned, pre-funded and clergy contribution.

Based on the most recent PRM valuation dated 12/31/2015, the following is the funded position of the post-retirement medical benefits:

1. Expected Post Retirement Obligation (EPBO) or net conference cost Not available2. Accumulated Post Retirement Obligation (APBO) or net conference cost $13,014,9833. Assets designated for PRM $994,0284. Service Cost (SC) or net conference cost $18,933

As a preview of the 2018 CBFP requirement, a new PRM Funding Contribution requirement will be mandatory for conferences requesting a full favorable CBFP opinion. This year the calculation for informational purposes only is as follows:

5. Funded Status [3. – 2.] $(12,020,955)6. Number of Annual Payments 207. Portion of Funded Status Payable [5. / 6., but zero if 5. is positive] $601,0488. PRM Funding Contribution, Informational purposes only [4. + 7.] $619,981

These values are based on a 4.0% long-term discount rate and a 0% long-term expected rate of return on assets.

COMPREHENSIVE PROTECTION PLAN (CPP)

Plan Overview: The Comprehensive Protection Plan (CPP) provides death, long-term disability and other welfare benefits for eligible

clergy of The United Methodist Church and their families. It is an Internal Revenue Code 414(e) “church plan” funded by plan sponsor insurance premiums. Generally, clergy are eligible to participate in CPP if the conference or salary-paying unit sponsors the plan, and they can satisfy the eligibility requirements which include full-time appointment with plan compensation equal to or greater than 60% of the Denominational Average Compensation (DAC) or the Conference Average Compensation (CAC), whichever is less.

Current funding plan information: For 2017, the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference has an expected required contribution to the Comprehensive Protection

Plan of $500,000, which is anticipated to be funded by Apportionments. The anticipated average increase in future years is expected to be 0% per year as a result of a trend down in FTE appointments.

UNITED METHODIST PERSONAL INVESTMENT PLAN (UMPIP) FOR LAY AND CLERGY

Plan Overview:The United Methodist Personal Investment Plan (UMPIP) is an Internal Revenue Code section 403(b) defined

contribution retirement savings plan for clergy and lay employees of The United Methodist Church and affiliated organizations. Participants may make before-tax, Roth, and after-tax contributions through payroll deductions. Participant contributions, various optional plan sponsor contributions and investment earnings comprise the individual’s retirement account balance.

Current funding plan information:




Conference office lay employees working an average of 21 hours per week or more are eligible for a plan sponsor funded pension contribution of 11% of salary matching the participant contribution of 3%. Lay employees are encouraged to make contributions toward their retirement through payroll deductions to the UMPIP. The estimated contribution for the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference is anticipated to be $181,600 and will be funded via apportionments to local churches.

OTHER CONFERENCE BENEFIT OBLIGATIONS: DEFINED CONTRIBUTION (DC) TYPE

Plan Overview:The Eastern Pennsylvania Conference currently offers the following DC benefit(s): Basic Life $10,000. The funding

obligation for 2017 is anticipated to be $14,676 with the funding sources to be paid through apportionment to local churches. The anticipated average increase in future years is expected to be 0% per year due to the closure of our account with The Standard and move of our book of business to Hartford with a huge decrease in premium.

CONCLUSION

The 2017 Comprehensive Benefit Funding Plan and the above Summary document incorporates, to the best of our understanding, the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference’s obligations and fundingquirements of the benefits provided to the clergy and laity of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference.




Board of Trustees

Your Conference Board of Trustees has worked hard for you this past year and we thank you for the many ways in which you have cooperated with us. We strive to be good stewards of our conference resources and try to save the local churches money.

Our responsibilities include property, insurance and legal issues, with our primary work including the following areas:

1) Securing Group Insurance for All Local Churches a) Workers Compensation b) Property and Casualty2) Committee Work

a) Safety Committee – to help save money on Workers Compensation premiumsb) Insurance Committee – to secure the best coverage at the lowest cost

3) Administering Three Endowment Fundsa) Bookstore Fund – offers grants of up to $5,000 to our retired clergy toward the entrance fee at an EPA related

retirement home and an annual gift to our retireesb) Dewees Fund – offers grants of up to $5,000 for new ministries in local churches, districts or the conferencec) Adams Fund – offers grants of up to $500 for the purchase of new hymnals to churches with limited resources

4) Managing Conference Owned Propertya) Conference Officeb) Six District Officesc) Four District Parsonagesd) Three Conference-owned Camps: Innabah, Gretna Glen and Pocono Plateau (Carson Simpson is owned by

Metro Ministries)e) Eleven Discontinued Church Cemeteries: Hilltown, Flinthill, Seipstown, Eby, Old Salem, Mt. Olivet, Wesley

Brick, Emmanuel, Nazareth, St. John’s, and a plot for pastors at Mt. Moriah 5) Defending the Trust Clause, which states that all UM church property is held by the local churches in trust to the

Annual Conference. If a local church discontinues, all real property is to be returned to the Annual Conference to continue the Lord’s work.

Special projects this past year included:1) We received and are maintaining into our care the following discontinued churches: Spring City, St. Luke’s: Snyder

Ave., West Penn Immanuel, William Penn2) We have sold the following discontinued churches and parsonages: Parkside, Packard Memorial of South Media,

Crozerville, Old Union Church of Wallingford, Pa., Malvern,3) The “Serenity House”, the former Parsonage of the former Cookman UMC was conveyed to Arch Street UMC to

further ministry in that community.4) We celebrated the completion of the renovation project with St. George’s UMC to develop archive space for historic

UMC materials.5) Grants were awarded to some 22 churches through the Dewees endowment in the amount of $87.500.6) We continue working with Church Mutual as the carrier for the conference property and casualty insurance coverage.

We greatly appreciate the assistance we received this past year as churches completed their property inspection reports, worked to provide safer workplaces and properly maintained their buildings and documents. Your diligence in these small tedious tasks makes a big difference. Fewer accidents are good for our people and they will also lead to cost savings in future insurance premiums.

The Conference Board of Trustees includes: Al Kingcade, President; Jim Cooksey, Vice President, Sandra Wolfe, Secretary; Jim Cruickshank, Treasurer; Robert Shoemaker, Counsel; Mark Beideman; Christopher Kurien; Gene Boyer, Marilyn Rivers, William Thresher, C. Michael Rooney, James Duckett, Scott Johnson, Alice Ann Bonham, and B K Chung, Cabinet Liaison

Report of EPA Safety CommitteeThe Safety Committee was created to help prevent workplace injuries, reduce risk, and save local churches and affiliated agencies money on their insurance premiums.

1) Safety Audit/Self-Inspection Checklists. The local church bears the responsibility of ensuring a safe workplace for its employees. Please take time to perform a safety audit and forward a copy to your District Superintendent.




We encourage you to form a group of members/staff to complete this audit and then develop a set of safety and security procedures for your church.

2) Accident Investigation Report. We ask that all Pastors and Staff/Parish Relations Committees familiarize themselves with this reporting procedure. Should accidents or incidents occur, please complete an incident investigation report and forward it to your DS. We will continue to forward a quarterly safety bulletin with tips and ideas and you may want to review the publications available on the conference website at www.epaumc.org.




Urban Commission Summary Report

Four years ago, at the 2012 Annual Conference, the Urban Commission was established to act as steward for an Urban Ministry Fund, which is used for ongoing programmatic support as well as for ministry initiatives. It was established using assets from the sale of real estate previously occupied then by Bustleton UMC and Simpson Memorial UMC as both were being discontinued.

The fund was designated by the Annual Conference to receive assets from the sale of buildings of closed congregations in urban centers with a population of greater than 50,000 so that the UM Discipline’s commitment to keeping those assets in urban ministry is maintained. (¶ 2544, 2012 Book of Discipline).

The resource is also intended to grow and its use expanded as additional sources of funding become available.Since being established, the Urban Ministry Fund has:

• Supplied funding for the Partners for Sacred Places initiative.• $3,000 per congregation in one-on-one technical assistance by PSP staff [types of work include connecting

congregations with community partners, developing shared use agreements, advising on special events or initiatives; restructuring staff/volunteer/clergy roles, or developing new positions; writing/editing case statements; developing supporting organizations, advise on merging congregations, etc.)

• An additional $3,500 per congregation was leveraged and provided to hire consultants for one or more of the following services: energy efficiency audits [saving congregations on utility bills]; building conditions reports by an architect or conservator; assessments to make kitchens more usable for rental or use by food entrepreneurs; accounting services [to improve financial record-keeping]; and consulting on staff structure/budget.

• Offered incentive grants totaling $30,000 to all 20 of the congregations involved in the Partners project that completed their process and case statements.

• Provided a $10,000 grant to the building fund to re-establish Mid-Town Parish in North Philadelphia.• Supplemented the Urban Commission operating budget to hire consultants and reopen the Urban Office.• Made small loans to merging congregations trying to sell buildings.• Collaborated with Metro Ministries, Inc. to establish a Development Committee focused on identifying new sources of

revenue and support for urban ministry.• Provided training in how to use social media to promote local church activity

This Spring, clergy and laity from dozens of congregations throughout the Conference - along with leaders from the Annual Conference, Cabinet, Urban Commission and United Methodist Metro Ministries, Inc. - gathered for a planning retreat to set forth a longer term strategy for urban ministry.

Four themes emerged during the two-day retreat that has been called the “Urban Quadrilateral” and focuses on:

• Love (Love God, neighbor and adversary to build relationships based on trust)- much discussion was around building relationships, acceptance of each other and others, and also creating safe spaces.

• Learn (Learn from and with one another)- peer learning, story-telling, and interfaith collaboration.• Lead (Lead with innovation and creativity)- mentor youth and young adults and advocate for justice.• Leverage (Leverage the resources within and outside the urban environment)- identify resources, recruit allies, and

approach from an asset based mindset.

Using the Urban Quadrilateral as guide, the group developed a preliminary Vision and Mission statement that will be refined as the Commission continues its work. Most importantly, the structure for an Urban Implementation Committee (UIC) was developed which would be representative of all Districts throughout the Conference; work to make sure the goals and plans for urban ministry established by the Conference continue to move forward; and make sure everyone working on urban ministry is pursuing what is the broader common good – and not any one particular program. The Commission and United Methodist Metro Ministries Inc. has been meeting regularly and will continue to do so in pursuing its collective work.

The Commission encourages you to visit their Facebook page to stay up to date on their activities at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Urban-Commission-of-Eastern-PA-Conference.

OURNAL OF HE E ASTERN ENNSYLVANIA ONFERENCE T HE U NITED …€¦ · United Methodist Church and...

Documents

Transcript of OURNAL OF HE E ASTERN ENNSYLVANIA ONFERENCE T HE U NITED …€¦ · United Methodist Church and...