daily proceedings the second session of mountain sky … · 2019 mountain sky conference journal...

2019 MOUNTAIN SKY CONFERENCE JOURNAL

2019 Daily Proceedings F – 1

DAILY PROCEEDINGS

The Second Session of Mountain Sky Conference of the United Methodist Church

Billings Hotel and Conference Center Billings, MT

Bishop Karen P. Oliveto – Presiding

Mark Calhoun – Conference Co-Secretary Elizabeth McVicker – Conference Co-Secretary

PLENARY SESSION

Thursday, June 13, 2019 – 1:30 P.M.

NORTHERN CHEYENNE TRIBE WELCOME: Alan Livingston welcomed the attendees and led us in a sacred Native prayer. CALL TO ORDER: Bishop Karen P. Oliveto called to order the Annual Conference Session of the Mountain Sky Conference. The Conference convened in the Billings Conference Center in Billings, MT revolving around the theme “Living into Beloved Community”. HOSTING DISTRICT WELCOME: Deborah Christine introduced a life-sized photo of Brother Van from 1872. TEST VOTING MACHINES: Ashley Hawkins and her technology team instructed the body on the use of the electronic voting devices. BAR OF THE CONFERENCE: Elizabeth McVicker set the Bar of the Conference which shall be the stage, audio visual area, the associate secretary’s table and all chairs on the floor of the conference. The blue chairs are outside the bar. Please be present and in the room to vote. On motion it was adopted. She provided guidelines regarding the order of the session. Voting Eligibility: Purple, yellow and green stripes on name tags can vote on the business of Annual Conference. Those requesting to be excused from all or part of the session of the Annual Conference (Book of Discipline Para. 602.8) are on file with the Conference Secretary. AGENDA: Dan Odell, Chair, presented the agenda report. On motion it was ordered that the agenda be adopted. RULES: Russell Butler, chair of the Rules Committee, presented the Rules report. On motion, it was ordered that the “Mountain Sky Conference Session Rules” be adopted. On motion, it was ordered that the “Guiding Policies of the Mountain Sky Conference of the United Methodist Church” be adopted. INTRODUCTIONS: Wendy Ochs and Rob White, Program and Arrangements Chairs, addressed the Conference. Youngsook Kang introduced Rick Hunt as the leader of the Safety Team who will provide security for the session. Kent Ingram introduced Robin Ridenour, wife of Bishop Oliveto, and Nancy Cox, the Bishop’s Executive Assistant. Margaret Novak from Legacy Yellowstone Conference presented three CD's of the Montana Logging Ballet and T-shirts to the Bishop.

OPENING WORSHIP:

The Conference convened in the Montana Conference Center, Billings, Montana for Opening Worship. The body acknowledged our brokenness and received an anointing for healing. Cory Young and Zach Bechtold presented a modern interpretation of scripture. Matthew Utley provided the Young Peoples sharing. Margaret Hotze, Gayla Jo Slauson and Don McCammon provided the Laity sharing. JJ Warren from the Upper New York Conference shared his testimony with the Conference. Bishop Karen P. Oliveto gave her Episcopal sharing, then played the drums for the song “God of Grace and God of Glory.”


F – 2 Daily Proceedings 2019

DISTRICT DINNERS AT ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Thursday, June 13, 2019 – 4:30 p.m.

At the district dinners circuits and circuit leaders were introduced, outgoing superintendents were recognized as applicable, acknowledgements were extended to those who were getting ordained or in the candidacy process, clergy transitions were recognized, Church Tithe Certificates were presented, special awards were given, district leadership teams were recognized, and other news and events for the district were announced.

LAY SESSION

Thursday, June 13, 2019 – 6:30 P.M.

Margaret Hotze, Conference Co-Lay Leader welcomed and introduced Rocky Mountain Legacy and Yellowstone Legacy Circuit Leaders and candidates. Dr. Junius B Dotson, General Secretary of Discipleship Ministries, shared about the need for “cultural reset” in the church: How do we create a new experience? We need to stop “fixing church”, we need a cultural change. Failing to make disciples is the cause of decline in the church. If you try to build the church you will rarely make disciples, if you make disciples you will build the church. Our ultimate goal is the great commission, “Go and make disciples”. Engagement with the community is how we engage people outside the church. “If you want to build a ship, don’t hire workers and give orders. Instead, give them a yearning for the sea”. Discipleship begins with relationships. Three things in building community:

1. Authentic relationships (genuine)

2. Organic – cannot be forced

3. Consistent investment of time

To use a football term, if a play doesn’t work, call an audible – change the play when the situation changes. Mountain Sky Conference Lay Leader Nominations for two open positions for the 2020-2024 Quadrennium were taken at Annual Conference 2019. Nomination forms were received for Gaylene Maka, Doug Palmer, and Susan Yeager. Several other forms were given out but as time ran short, those forms did not get turned in. If you have a form and want to nominate someone, please send the form to “Lay Leaders” at the Conference Office, 6110 Greenwood Plaza Boulevard, Greenwood Village.CO 80111-4803. There will be opportunity in the spring for persons to self-nominate for these positions.



CLERGY SESSION

Thursday, June 13, 2019 – 6:30 P.M. OPENING WORSHIP: The session began with singing Spirit of the Living God and It is Well With My Soul. Bishop Karen Oliveto led a prayer. CALL TO ORDER: Jessica Rooks, BOM Chairperson, called the meeting to order. APPROVE GUESTS: Richard Marsh, Conference Chancellor and Nancy Cox, Administrative Assistant to the Bishop, Pam Van Alstyne, Rick Hunt with the Safety Team, and lay members of the Board of Ordained Ministry who were present in the room, were approved to be present. SETTING THE BAR: Jessica Rooks set the bar as the room (full members only are eligible to vote), and the honor code was observed when voting. PROCEDURAL MOTIONS: Rev. Jessica Rooks, Chair of Conference Relations Committee, reported that the following ordained ministers and provisional members from other Annual Conferences are approved for appointment while retaining their conference or denominational membership: Nathan Adams OE Florida Cathy Estes OE Arkansas Mark Feldmeir OE California-Pacific Michael Gore OE Indiana Benjamin Hensley OD North Texas Joshua Langille-Hoppe OE Oklahoma Russell Lehman OR Peninsula-Delaware Tevita David Ofahengaue OE California-Nevada Mary Schmidt OE Texas Barbara Sholis OE West Ohio Anna Viehland OPE Florida Jeff Wakeley OR Susquehanna Michael Smith OE New Jersey --B.A.C. 24.a. Jessica Rooks reported those ordained or provisional members from other Methodist denominations that are approved for appointment while retaining their conference or denominations membership: Yunseon Choi OE Korean Methodist Church Hwal Paul Joo OE Korean Methodist Church –B.A.C 24.b. Jessica Rooks moved that we vote on those clergy in good standing in other Christian denominations that have been approved to serve appointments or ecumenical ministries within the bounds of the Annual Conference while retaining their denominational affiliation. The following persons were approved Name Status Denomination James Bell OF Presbyterian Church USA Priscilla Bell OF Presbyterian Church USA John Duckworth OF American Baptist James Fouther Jr. * OF United Church of Christ Kent Gordon OF Congregational Loren Gustafson R/OF ELCA Pricilla Hill SY Presbyterian Church USA Tracy Hughes OF United Church of Christ Amanda Liggett OF ELCA Sarah Logemann OR Presbyterian Church USA Verla Miller OF Disciples of Christ Marcia Muir OF Presbyterian Church USA



Steve Poos-Benson * OF Presbyterian Church USA Robin Riley OF American Baptist William S. Robertson OF Presbyterian Church USA Rick Thompson CSY United Church of Christ Hugo Venegas OF Christian Reform Church Patty Walker OF United Church of Christ ANNIVERSARIES: The following were celebrated for milestones in ministry: 60 YEARS (1959) Robert Arthur Ellis Kenneth W. Wanberg 50 YEARS (1969) Richard L. Gay Rodney E. Hull 40 YEARS (1979) Thomas R. Boller Richard G. Calhoun Jr. J. Robert Flier Steven K. Goodier Larry E. Paulson Donald P. Strait 25 YEARS (1994) Merlene Barner Tommy J. Dudley Karen Hurst Jin Ho Kang Ok Nam Kim 20 YEARS (1999) Deacons George S. Brunner Betty Kelly Luttek Kendall Elders: Glenda P. Hart Handi Jo Dolloff Holt Eun Sang Lee Paul (Pete) Richard Meese Jennifer L. Hare Mirabella Valerie L. Oden Susan Kay Pierce Judith (Judi) Lynn Taylor CLERGY COVENANT FUND REPORT AND OFFERING – Don Bird shared that clergypersons were helped during the past year with the funds collected at the last clergy session, and encouraged generous giving this year. An offering was taken. ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW COMMITTEE: The following members were approved: Members: Susan Adams-Trembath, William Mullette-Bauer, Valerie Jackson, Ramon Robledo, Kimal James, Terry Turner Alternates: Ryan Canaday, Susan DeBree, Connie Cranston, Loyaa Flansburg, Don Derryberry – B.A.C. 18.a.



CONFERENCE RELATIONS REPORT The following were listed as those who have completed studies for the license as a local pastor, and are approved, but are not now appointed: Name Last licensed District Amy Baker 2014 Trinity Susie Burley 2016 Trinity Terry Krayenhagen 2017 Trinity Mike Lipinski 2007 Trinity John McLean 2007 Trinity David Money 2007 Mile High Metro Vicki Richards-Street 2014 Utah/W. Colorado Brad Walston 2013 Utah/W. Colorado ---B.A.C. 20. The following were approved as being approved and appointed at full-time local pastors: -- First year Years completed Name license awarded w/Course of Study Cody Anderson 1/20/2016 ½ M. Div. Zach Bechtold * 2017 M. Div. Kenneth Berve * 7/1/2009 Completed COS Michelle Bowles 9/1/2016 In Year 4 Candace D. Boyd * 11/1/2018 M. Div. Steve Brown 9/22/2014 In Year 4 Rob Bruendl 7/1/2008 In Year 5 Jim Chrisawn * 7/1/2014 M. Div. Val Colenso * 2000 Completed COS Karen Disney * 2007 Completed COS Martin E. Lee * 11/1/2014 M. Div. James R. Ward * 7/1/2009 Completed COS Jeffrey Wayland * 1/1/2015 M. Div. Benning Wentworth IV 8/1/2007 In Year 5 Matt White 2017 In Year 1 --B.A.C. 21.a The following were approved as being approved and appointed as part-time local pastors:

First year Years completed Name license awarded Course of Study Teresa Adams (3/4) 7/1/2009 In Year 5 Kelly Addy * (3/4) 2002 Completed COS John Atland * (1/2) 12/1/2018 Completed COS Dotti Behling * (3/4) Completed COS Bill Briggs * (1/4) 2009 Completed COS Charlotte Carr * (3/4) 7/1/2016 M. Div. Mark Cloer (1/4) 11/1/2012 In Year 3 Lucia Correa (1/4) 7/1/2016 In Year 4 Steven Dunkel (1/2) 7/1/2018 In Year 1 David Erickson (1/4) 7/1/2018 In Year 1 Kristi Firme * (1/2) 8/15/2005 Completed COS Sione Fungalai * (3/4) 12/1/1998 Completed COS Jodie Harless * (1/2) 7/1/2012 M. Div. Janeen Hill (1/2) 11/1/2013 In Year 3 Donald Holt (3/4) 7/15/2012 In Year 4 Jean Paul Howard (1/2) 11/1/2008 In Year 2 Manuel Jimenez * (1/2) 7/1/2010 Completed COS Jeff Kanost (1/2) 7/1/2015 In Year 2 Evelyn Kunkel * (1/4) 2003 Completed COS



Kathleen Leathers (3/4) 7/1/2010 In Year 5 Atamani Longolongofolau * (1/4) 7/1/2003 Completed COS Karin Lovgren (3/4) 1/11/2018 In Year 1 Victoria Lozoya (3/4) 5/1/2019 In Year 1 Mele Mausi Mafi (1/2) 5/1/2017 Comp. Year 1 Poasi Manu * (1/4) 5/1/2013 Completed COS Gracie Marske (3/4) 10/18/2017 In Year 2 Vicky Martinez (3/4) 1/1/2018 1/3 M. Div. Lesley Matschke (3/4) 8/1/2013 Retired Norman Mark * (1/2) 7/1/2014 Completed COS Jack Mattingly * (1/2) 2003 Completed COS Linda Meyer (1/4) 7/1/2017 Comp. Lic. Schl. Mina M. Nau * (1/2) 2/1/2019 M. Div. Sara Neff (1/4) 2016 Comp. Year 1 Craig Paschal * (3/4) 7/1/2004 Completed COS Guillermo Reyes (3/4) 7/1/2013 Comp. Lic. Schl. Carol Rhan (3/4) 2014 In Year 5 David Sauer (3/4) 7/1/2017 3/4 M. Div. Deanne Sharp (1/2) 7/1/2011 In Year 4 Harold Eugene Sharp (1/2) 7/1/2017 Retired Rick Stewart (1/2) 7/1/2017 In Year 3 Donnie Sturgill (3/4) 7/1/2017 In Year 3 Atonio Toluta’u (1/4) 1/1/2015 Comp. Lic. Schl. Ryan Trosper (1/4) 7/1/2017 In Year 2 Olympia Tukutau (1/4) 7/1/2019 Comp. Lic. Schl. Losaline Tupoumalohi (3/4) 2016 In Year 2 Kristina Walker (3/4) 7/1/2016 Comp. Year 2 Gary Wilken * (1/4) 7/1/1997 M. Div. --B.A.C. 21.b The following were reported as becoming local pastors since last we met, and were welcomed to the body by Bishop Karen: John Altland, Candace Boyd, Victoria Lozoya, Olympia Tukutau. CANDIDATES

Upon recommendation of the Board of Ordained Ministry, the following were presented to be commissioned as Provisional Deacons. All were approved. Haley Andreades, Kelsey Hill – B.A.C. 28.

Upon recommendation of the Board of Ordained Ministry, the following were presented to be commissioned as Provisional Elders : Cherie Cobb, Angela Dornisch, Roger “Buzz” King, Peter Jisung Lee, Lauretta Lundquist, Amber Mitts, Michael Paschall, Brenda Torrie

Those who are continued as provisional members towards deacon’s and elder’s orders: Jason Baxter, PD, Jaime Nieves, PE, Leah Coleman, PE, David Petty, PE, Jamielee Demske, PE, Daniel Viehland, PE, Calvin Hill, PE, Tonya Whaley, PE, Sandra Jimenez, PE, Cory Young, PE, Angela Kotzmoyer, PE, Janet Mulroy, PE – B.A.C. 29.a 31.a. What ordained clergy have been received from other Christian denominations as provisional members? Michael Paschall, PE 7/1/2019 Southern Baptist Upon recommendation of the Board of Ordained Ministry, the following were presented for approval as ordination as Deacon in full connection: Kaitlin Elmore. All were approved--B.A.C. 32 Upon recommendation of the Board of Ordained Ministry, the following were presented for approval for ordination as Elder in full connection: Yevette Christy, PE, Sherry Ferriman, PE, Byoungwk Jeon, PE, KyeongSu Jung, PE, Emily Kintzel, PE, Dawn Maurer Skerritt, PE, Llewelyn (Lou) Ward II, PE. –B.A.C. 32



THANKS TO BOM MEMBERS ENDING THEIR TERM: Thomas Cross, Steve Hermes, Buddy Harrington, Schawn Kellogg, Sisilia Moala Mamtuki, Mary Beth Taylor. CONFERENCE RELATIONS REPORT (cont’d)

The following were reported as having been transferred to other annual conferences of the UMC: –B.A.C. 41 The following were approved as discontinued as provisional members by voluntary discontinuance: –B.A.C. 42.b.

The following were reported as elders who died during the past year: Name Date of birth Date of death Robert Linn Barnes 1/5/1923 3/12/2019 Robert C. Coburn 1/25/1930 7/19/2018 Fred Stanley Collins 4/13/1921 1/14/2019 Wallace D. Finley 1/27/1931 12/29/2018 Oliver Franklin Gunter 9/17/1920 10/5/2018 George Hanabusa 3/8/1931 1/25/2019 Delbert W. Hansen 7/16/1947 10/8/2018 Charles Evans Heath 11/17/1938 3/6/2019 Robert Eldon Hunter 3/2/1928 2/16/2019 Lowell Karnes 3/23/1942 4/27/2019 Robert Phelps 7/31/1934 8/24/2018 Roger Robison 6/22/1920 11/8/2018 Albert W. Scarffe 9/7/1925 12/30/2018 -- B.A.C. 48.c. The following were reported as deacons who died during the past year: –B.A.C. 48.d. The following were reported as diaconal ministers who died during the past year:. –B.A.C. 48.d. The following were approved as provisional, ordained or associate members for leave of absence for 5 years or less: Jennifer Arfmann FE 7/1/2016 Laura Cartwright FE 1/1/2018 Elizabeth Hall FE 7/1/2018 Jennifer Hare Mirabella FE 7/1/2015 Amos Kariuki FE 7/1/2016 Will Morris FE 7/1/2017 Siaosi Prescott FE 7/1/2016 Mary Beth Taylor FE 7/1/2018 Rhonda York FD 7/1/2014 --B.A.C. 50.a.1 The following were approved as provisional, ordained or associate members for leave of absence for 5 years or more: Mary Ann Dimand FE 1/1/2011 Scott Daniels FE 7/1/2013 --B.A.C. 50.a.2 The following were approved as those on family leave for less than 5 years. Jessica Boyce FE 7/1/2015 Lynne Butler FE 7/1/2019 Jennifer Winterfeld FD 7/1/2017 --B.A.C. 50.a.3 The following were approved for transitional leave: --B.A.C. 50.a.5 The following have been granted medical leave: Laurie A. Bruce FE 7/1/2015 (without benefits) David Burnett FE 8/1/2002 Handi Jo Dolloff-Holt FE 8/1/2012 Debra Edwards FE 6/1/2014 Laura Fastert FE 6/7/2019



Brian Oliver FE 9/1/2018 Peter C. Phillips PE 2/1/2019 Sara Power FE 1/1/2003 Brian Riecke FE 7/1/2013 --B.A.C. 52 The following were reported as candidates in the process for certification in specialized ministry: --B.A.C. 58 RECOGNITION OF RETIREES The following were reported as deacons in full connection who have been retired this year: Anne Davidson-Mundt, Jolain Graf, Sandra Stewart –B.A.C. 53.a The following were reported as elder in full connection who have been retired this year: Jeff Babb, Jerry Lee Collins, P. David Greep, Youngsook Kang, William David Logan, Jeffrey Mahan, Nancy Mead, Dennis Shaw –B.A.C. 53.c The following were reported as associate members who have been retired this past year: Steven Earnshaw –B.A.C. 54.a The following were local pastors who have been recognized as retired this past year: Susie Burley, Lester Huseby, David McGee –B.A.C. 56.a CONFERENCE RELATIONS REPORT (cont’d) The following were approved as associate members and elders to appointments for less than full-time service: Fred Amborn FE 7/1/2017 ¾ time Lauren Chance Boyd FE 7/1/2016 ¾ time Jamielee Demske PE 7/1/2018 ¾ time Sherry Ferriman FE 7/1/2019 ¾ time Felicia George FE 7/1/2019 ¾ time Linda S. Hoover FE 7/1/2013 ½ time Elizabeth Jackson FE 7/1/2019 ¾ time Byoungwk Jeon FE 7/1/2016 ¾ time Sandra Jimenez PE 7/1/2017 ½ time Emily Kintzel FE 7/1/2016 ½ time Brian Kroeger FE 10/1/2018 ¼ time Seon Young Lee FE 7/1/2011 ¾ time Janet Mulroy PE 7/1/2018 ½ time John Nadasi FE 7/1/2013 ¾ time Betty Nguyen FE 7/1/2018 ½ time Tan Van Nguyen FE 3/1/2019 ½ time Dan Odell FE 7/1/2015 ½ time Joshua Walker FE 5/1/2014 ½ time _______________________________________________________ Spencer W. Green * FE 1/1/2014 ¼ time Edward R. Rousset * FE 7/1/1994 ¾ time --B.A.C. 72.a The following were approved as deacons being in appointment for less than full-time service: Lee Anderson-Harris FD 7/1/2015 ¾ time Jason Baxter PD 5/1/2018 ½ time Debra Juarez FD 7/1/2015 ¾ time Mary MacDonald FD 7/1/2012 ¼ time Ann McClellan FD 9/1/2018 ½ time Philip Rogers FD 7/1/2015 ½ time



Sarah Steidtmann* FD 7/1/2008 ¼ time Charles J. Stephens FD 4/1/2015 ½ time Sallie Suby-Long* FD 7/1/2009 ¾ time --B.A.C. 72.b The following were approved as elders (full connection and provisional), associate members and local pastors appointed to other valid ministries under the provisions of 344.1d: Michelle Bowles, FL Powerback Rehabilitation of Lakewood Susan Crow, FE Executive Director, Workshops Inc. Todd Everhart, FE James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, Tampa, Florida James Grunden, FE Pastor, Southminster United Church of Canada Gichul James Kim, FE Professor, Pai Chai University, Daejeon, South Korea Kerry McCormick, FE Front Range Hospice and Palliative Care Rebecca McFee, FE Columbine Health Systems & CSU Valerie Oden, FE Riverbend United Church of Canada Jin Tae Park, FE Chaplain, Dongseo Education Facility, South Korea Trevor Potter, FE Pastor, McKillop United Church of Canada Brian Rossbert, FE Program Officer, Gill Foundation Blaine Scott, FE The Sanctuary at Steadfast Steeds Rebekah Simon-Peter, FE President, Rebekah Simon-Peter Coaching and Consulting Amy Rebecca Stapleton, FE Chesapeake Life Center-Hospice of Chesapeake James Ward, FL Eaton Senior Communities --B.A.C. 76.c. SPEECHES BY CLERGY GENERAL CONFERENCE DELEGATE CANDIDATES Persons who submitted Statements of Availability and given an opportunity to address the clergy session: Dawn Skerritt YAC, Bryson Lillie, Emily Hagan, Jasper Peters, Jeff Rainwater, Joel Kershaw, Kent Ingram, Megan Armstrong, Sione Tukutau, Tiffany Keith, Travis Walker, Valerie Jackson Nominations from floor: Jessica Rooks RMC, Mark Calhoun YAC, Jeremy Scott YAC, Eric Smith RMC, Sami Pack-Toner YAC, Phil Rogers RMC. The body granted them time to address the clergy session. PERSONAL PRIVILEGE: Annie Arnoldy and Emily Kintzel, outgoing and incoming chairs of COSROW, shared 2 stories of male laity to female clergy harassment. Called the body to be voices for equity within the conference to make churches safe places for all. PASSING ON CHARACTER: Bishop Karen asked each District Superintendent to come forward. Jeff Rainwater spoke about ethical conduct among pastors. Bishop Karen addressed the process of handling complaints against clergy and encouraged clergy to reach out for support when they feel isolated. Bishop Karen Oliveto asked each superintendent the questions: “Are all the clergy members of the district blameless in their life and official administration?”, and to the clergy of each district she asked, “Is your district superintendent blameless in his/her life and official administration?” Each assured that all pass on character by the grace of God, except for 2 clergy who are under supervision for a filed complaint. ANNOUNCEMENTS: Clergy Orders Retreat will be Oct. 15-17 at YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park. MEF funds can be used by active and retired clergy for clergy orders retreat. MEF Funds has been increased from $500 to $750 per year and from $2000 to $3000 per quadrennium effective

immediately. Dennis Shaw, the conference statistician, thanked those who complete their annual reporting on time and reminded others

to complete this responsibility.



Bill Selby invited everyone to join in the lobby of the hotel to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Center for Pastoral Effectiveness.

CLOSING BLESSING – Bishop Karen closed the session with words of challenge and encouragement and a prayer.

MINISTRY IMMERSION Friday, June 14, 2019 – 8:30 A.M.

The Conference convened for Worship and Sending to Serve. Cassie King, Provisional Elder, introduced a mission’s video from Shiloh United Methodist Church. Calvin Hill shared with the body a message from 1 Corinthians 10. Yevette Christy, Elder Candidate and pastor of Westcliffe United Methodist Church on Colorado, shared a message from John 11:1-26 and John 12:2. Claudia Fife, from Laurel United Methodist Church in Montana, introduced a video on missions. Ryan Canaday, from St. Lukes United Methodist Church and FREE Ministry, shared a message from Luke 17:33. Youngsook Kang commissioned us to go and do mission work in Billings, Montana. Mark Calhoun , from Lander United Methodist Church in Wyoming, talked about the Tug of Love and offered a prayer of healing for Bob Sewell, Retired Elder, who could not be here due to illness. Kristi Kinnison introduced a video on the Mountain Sky United Methodist Foundation. The Conference was sent to serve at the following ministry sites: Aging Well at Shiloh UMC: Start a Healthy Aging Ministry Shiloh UMC has been working hard to provide a program called Aging Well, focused on building community for learning about the challenges facing us in the latter half of life. Community Garden and Outside Community Ministries at Shiloh UMC Shiloh UMC provides a space for a community garden and their lawn for soccer teams to play on. General maintenance work for the exterior of Shiloh helps connect Christ's love to the community. Free Store and Waffle Worship at Evangelical UMC The Free Store provides free clothing and household goods through the generosity of others and faith sharing. Waffle Worship creates Christian community for shoppers and volunteers of the Free Store. Rainbow Coffee for LGBT+ Youth at Grace UMC Rainbow Coffee House at Grace UMC is a safe space for high school aged LGBT+ youth to gather, drink coffee (or tea), eat snacks and connect with community. The focus is to build resilience in LGBT+ youth through healthy peer relationships, empowerment, leadership development, education, community outreach, and advocacy. St. John's United Aging Care (Main Campus) St. John's is a Lutheran aging care facility that serves people at all levels of aging. They also are one of the few aging facilities to accept Medicaid. Montana Rescue Mission and Friendship House Montana Rescue Mission and Friendship House are Christian organizations who serve low income, homeless and people who need a hand up. School District Partnerships: Food Backpacks and Homeless Programs These programs through School District 2 work with low income and homeless youth of all ages, providing backpacks with meals over weekends, and other services for the homeless.



The Hub: Homeless and At-Risk Drop-in Center The HUB is a drop-in center serving both the homeless and the at-risk of becoming homeless population by acting as a resource site for individuals in the community while promoting a motivational environment. Mental Health Friends Network This grassroots program started at First United Methodist Church Billings to address the mental health needs of the community. It includes regular presentations from mental health providers, and working with the Billings Clinic Inpatient Mental Health Care providing support for their programs Family Promise of Yellowstone Valley Family Promise is a program providing homeless families with meals, shelter and a safe environment. Riverstone Health: County Services and Hospice The extensive programs through the Riverstone Health includes HIV programs, hospice and others. Habitat for Humanity Restore Habitat Restore is a non-profit home improvement store providing gently used building materials and household goods to the community. Billings Food Bank and Culinary Kitchen The Billings Food Bank, not part of the Montana Food Network, has been providing assistance to the community for over 35 years. They also have a professional culinary kitchen which is used for lunches and training for the community. St. John's United Aging Care (Wyndstone Campus) St. John's is a Lutheran aging care facility that serves people at all levels of aging. They also are one of the few aging facilities to accept Medicaid. Salvation Army Food Trucks The local Salvation Army has an extensive ministry providing sandwiches from a food truck along with their ministries. Family Service: Compiling Commodity Bags Family Service provides resources for all ages in Billings, from food to household goods. Yellowstone Boys & Girls Ranch A leader in mental health for children, YBGR has a residential campus west of Billings as well as clinics in town. Family Support Network Family Support Network is dedicated to supporting healthy families through supervised visits, family and child therapy and supporting our community. Angela's Piazza: Domestic Violence Drop-in Center Angela's Piazza is a domestic violence drop-in facility.



YWCA: Empowering Women and Ending Racism YWCA Billings serves to empower women and end racism by helping women find their way out of poverty. Mitten Ministry Hands get cold in the winters of the mountain west, and the mitten ministry provides mittens for the homeless in the larger Billings community. Tornadoes and Fires and Floods...Oh My! - When Disaster Strikes When disaster strikes, we want to reach out and help. The work of UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief), UMVIM (United Methodist Volunteers in Mission) and ERT (Early Response Teams) provide guidance for helping in a disaster area--or for coping if disaster events occur in your own life. Connecting Neighbors: “When is YOUR Next Disaster Coming?” “Connecting Neighbors” is an UMCOR program to: 1) Help families prepare for a disaster in their homes, 2) Help Trustees and Churches plan for Disasters to their churches and 3) Help churches develop a disaster plan to assist and aid county Office of Emergency Planning in times of disaster to help those in chaos. United Methodist Volunteers in Mission – UMVIM UMVIM offers life-changing experiences on a mission trip, both domestically and internationally. Abundant Health: How Does It Connect With My Local Church? As United Methodists, we are committed to creating abundant health for all – a global connection striving for mental, physical and spiritual well-being. Lifesaving health ministries are enriching the lives of people around the world, from South America to Africa, from India to the Philippines and the U.S. Healthy partnerships for church, families and communities: Preschools, Adult Care and Other Community Ministries Learn about developing healthy, symbiotic relationships between preschools or other community ministries and your local church. The Role of Power & The Way of Integrity In this training, you will learn about the dynamics of power, about the power of scripture to guide our paths, and about the way of integrity, which builds powerful and productive leaders and ministries. Seeing Each Person: How Implicit Bias Inhibits Evangelism Come for an engaging dialogue as we learn about implicit bias, understand how our outreach and evangelism is inhibited by it, and work at how we can truly see each person. Food and Faith Come participate in an engaging conversation about how food is important to people's faith. We'll talk about food is connected to our sense of community and belonging, and how food can help us engage the community outside the traditional local church.



PLENARY SESSION

Friday, June 14, 2019 – 2:30 P.M.

OPENING PRAYER: Margaret Hotze, Conference Co-Lay Leader opened us in prayer. BALLOT PROCEDURE: Bishop Karen P. Oliveto called Mark Calhoun to instruct the body on the process of elections of delegates to General and Jurisdictional Conferences. An election of this first ballot would need a 51% vote. FIRST LEGACY YELLOWSTONE LAY BALLOT: Following prayer, the first ballots to elect a Lay delegate to General Conference were cast. FIRST LEGACY YELLOWSTONE CLERGY BALLOT: Following prayer, the first ballots to elect a Clergy delegate to General Conference were cast. FIRST LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN LAY BALLOT: Following prayer, the first ballots to elect 2 Lay delegates to General Conference were cast. FIRST LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT: Following prayer, the first ballots to elect 2 Clergy delegates to General Conference were cast. POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVLEGE: Cory Young of Shelby, Sunburst and Valier United Methodist Churches led the Conference in prayer concerning the golf ball sized hail that hit his town. PRESENTATION of 2020 BUDGET OF THE MOUNTAIN SKY CONFERENCE: Kirsten Barlow presented the 2020 total budget of $4,364,000. PRESENTATION OF COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS FUNDING PLAN : Dennis Reese presented the Comprehensive Benefits Funding Plan. PRESENTATION OF NOMINATIONS REPORT: Burry Bessee and Christina Ostendorf presented the Nominations report. CLAREMONT SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY: Bishop Karen Oliveto introduced Kendra Fredrickson-Laouini, Director of Communications of Claremont School of Theology. We watched a video on Claremont School of Theology, and Fredrickson-Laouini briefly addressed the Conference. PERSONAL PRIVILEGE: Bishop Karen Oliveto recognized Eric Strader for his service as worship coordinator of our Conference. Rev. Strader briefly addressed the body and announced that Joe Mazza will be taking his place. PRAYER REQUESTS: Bishop Karen Oliveto offered prayers for Jeremy Scott’s grandmother and Mary Barnes.

WORSHIP SERVICE AND MISSION DINNER Friday, June 14, 2019 – 3:30 P.M.

Bishop Karen Oliveto introduced our guest preacher, Bishop Gregory Palmer, serving the Ohio West Area of the United Methodist Church, and presented him with a cowboy hat. Bishop Gregory Palmer shared a message on Acts 2:1-21. Bishop Karen Oliveto and Bishop Gregory Palmer invited us to remember our baptism “Montana Style” using troughs of water. Bishop Karen Oliveto closed us in a prayer and blessed our Mission Dinner. The Mission Dinner presentations provided information on mission and outreach by members of the Mountain Sky Conference, and the Tug-of-Love event took place to raise money for suicide prevention and support for Angola Pastor’s Salaries.



HEARING COMMITTEES Saturday, June 15, 2019 – 8:30 A.M.

Hearing Groups completed their work on the Petitions to this Annual Conference Session.

WORSHIP SERVICE

Saturday, June 15, 2019 – 9:30 A.M

Megan Armstrong opened worship in prayer. Junius Dotson, General Secretary of the General Board of Discipleship shared a message on Psalm 23. Bishop Karen Oliveto announced the results of the first ballot of delegates to General and Jurisdictional Conference before the scheduled break. FIRST LEGACY YELLOWSTONE LAY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the first ballot to elect a lay delegate to General Conference were read. 81 votes were cast, 3 invalid. 42 votes were needed for election. There was no election. FIRST LEGACY YELLOWSTONE CLERGY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the first ballot to elect a clergy delegate to General Conference were read. 58 votes were cast, 0 invalid, 30 votes were needed for election. Dawn Skerritt was elected with 36 votes. FIRST LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN LAY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the first ballot to elect 2 lay delegates to General Conference were read. 252 votes were cast,1 invalid. 127 votes were needed for election. There was no election. FIRST LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the first ballot to elect 2 clergy delegates to General Conference were read. 197 votes were cast, 3 invalid. 100 votes were needed for election. There was no election.

PLENARY SESSION Saturday, June 15, 2019 – 11:00 A.M

OPENING PRAYER: Jayden Stella from Smoky Hill United Methodist Church in Centennial, Colorado opened us in prayer. SECOND LEGACY YELLOWSTONE LAY BALLOT: Following prayer, the second ballots to elect a Lay delegate to General Conference were cast. SECOND LEGACY YELLOWSTONE CLERGY BALLOT: Following prayer, the second ballots to elect a reserve clergy delegate to General Conference were cast. SECOND LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN LAY BALLOT: Following prayer, the second ballots to elect 2 Lay delegates to General Conference were cast. SECOND LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT: Following prayer, the second ballots to elect 2 Clergy delegates to General Conference were cast. INTRODUCTIONS: Youngsook Kang introduced Bob Wilmouth, President of the Rocky Mountain College in Billings, Montana. Bob Wilmouth briefly addressed the body and recognized Kim Woeste, Chaplain of the Rocky Mountain College. Youngsook Kang introduced Tom Wolfe, President of The Iliff School of Theology, who briefly addressed the body. RETAKE OF SECOND LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT: Following prayer, a retake of the second ballot to elect 2 Clergy delegates to General Conference were cast.



CONSENT CALENDAR A, CONCURRENCE WITH OR WITHOUT AMENDMENTS: (Accepted with 80% of members present or voting)

MSC-01 Minimum Compensation 99.4% approval • With Amendments:

Line 15: Add after “conference parsonage standards” … as found in Section 5 of the approved Plan of Union of the Mountain Sky Conference.

Line 25: Add after “the following factors” … to be negotiated among the District Superintendent, Pastor, and the Staff-Parish Relations Committee:

Line 55: Strike “maximum” and add minimum

MSC-02 Superintendent and Treasurer Compensation 99.3% approval • No Amendments

MSC-03 The Calculation and Payment of General and Jurisdictional Apportionments by the Local Church/Charge 90.8 % approval • No Amendments

MSC-04 Flathead Lake United Methodist Bylaws 100% approval • No Amendments

MSC-05 Permission to Sell Camp on the Boulder Property 100% approval • No Amendments

MSC-09 Moving Towards God’s Good Future 95.2% approval • No Amendments

MSC-10 All Are Welcome 97.8% approval • With Amendments:

Line 31: Add Resolved, That we will embrace and support the desires of churches who choose not to perform same sex marriages or desire not have LGBTQIA+ persons as clergy as requested by the local church without repercussions or decreased level of support from the annual conference.

CONSENT CALENDAR B, NON-CONCURRENCE WITH OR WITHOUT AMENDMENTS: (Accepted with 80% of members present or voting)

GC-01 Organizational Restructure of The United Methodist Church 57.4% approval • No Amendments Requires 80% vote for Adoption by the Annual Conference

QUESTION OF LAW: During the morning session, Joel Kershaw rose to make a request of a ruling on a question of law (see below), at 11:45am, June 15, 2011, at the second session of the Mountain Sky Conference of the United Methodist Church. This request of law was delivered to Bishop Oliveto and she responded that she would take a 30 day period allowed to consider the request for a “Ruling of Law”. This letter is to request a ruling on a question of law, pursuant with Article VII of the United Methodist Constitution (paragraph 51), regarding petition MSC-10 to the 2019 session of the Mountain Sky Conference to act in violation of the Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church when it:

1) Sates that we “…cannot and will not comply with the strict requirements of the Traditional Plan adopted at the 2019 General Conference …”

2) States that we “…reject and will not enforce the punitive and exclusionary policies in The Book of Discipline…”



3) States that we…” will take no disciplinary action against…” clergy charged with violations in accordance with Paragraphs 2701 and 2702 of the Book of Discipline.

In light of paragraph 604 of the Book of Discipline which states, “The annual conference, for its own government, may adopt rules and regulations not in conflict with the Discipline of the United Methodist Church…” and in light of Judicial Council Decision No. 1120 (October 30, 2009), which states that “ …an annual conference may not legally negate, ignore or violate provisions of the Discipline, even where the disagreements are based upon conscientious objection to those provisions…”, is it lawful for the Mountain Sky Conference of the United Methodist Church to consider and adopt petition MSC-10? The Rev. Joel T. Kershaw Elder, Mountain Sky Conference United Methodist Church Pastor, FUMC, Brighton CO REQUEST TO REMOVE PETITION FROM CONSENT CALENDAR: Bishop Karen Oliveto announced requests to remove MSC-03 be removed from the Consent Calendar. A hand vote was taken. It did not pass. Joel Kershaw requested a division of the house. A second count was taken. 52 votes were in favor of removal, 606 votes were not in favor of removal. It did not pass. REQUEST TO REMOVE PETITION FROM CONSENT CALENDAR: Bishop Karen Oliveto announced a request to remove MSC-10 from the Consent Calendar. A vote was delayed until after lunch when the amendment to MSC-10 could be provided to the body. BOARD OF TRUSTEES REPORT: JR Casner of St. Andrews United Methodist Church, Highlands Ranch, CO, shared the conference-wide property and liability insurance plan. NOMINATIONS PROCESS FOR EPISCOPAL ELECTIONS: The body considered allowing the Annual Conference Secretary to distribute forms for the nomination of Episcopal candidates to the lay and clergy members of the next year’s annual conference, provided there is to be an Episcopal election. It was approved at 91%. INTRODUCTIONS: Bishop Karen Oliveto introduced Rev. Jay Rundell, President of Methodist Theological Seminary of Ohio in Dayton, Ohio, who briefly addressed the body. PRAYER REQUESTS: Rev. Elizabeth McVicker asked for prayers for Handi-Jo Doloff-Holt, the family of William Modem and the family of Wayne Bettendorf. Chris Fraiser offered a prayer on behalf of these requests. Bishop Karen Oliveto dismissed us for lunch.

RETIREMENT LUNCHEON Saturday, June 15, 2019 – 12:20 P.M.

The 2019 Retirees, their families and friends gathered at the Billings Conference Center for the Celebration of Ministry Luncheon. Those retiring are: Lester Huseby, Jerry Lee Collins, Jeffrey Mahan, Nancy Mead, Jeff Babb, Anne Davidson-Mundt, Steven Earnshaw, P. Dave Greep, Youngsook Kang, David McGee, Dennis Shaw, Sandra Stewart, David Logan, Jolain Graf, Qamaruzzman Bhatti.

LAITY LUNCHEON Saturday, June 15, 2019 – 12:20 P.M.

The Laity Luncheon with close to 400 people was held at the Billings Convention Center. The goal was to listen to each other, to get to know one another better, and to do some visioning together. By numbering tables and assigning each person to a table, most individuals were seated with people they did not know well or at all, often from different states. Most tables had facilitators who had instructions to hear from everyone at a table unless they did not want to participate. Questions about the past (toys you enjoyed playing with as a kid) and the future (future inventions that you are excited to see coming along) helped to get the group visiting.



The lunch was opened in prayer by a participant from Alamosa. After each question, a few tables were asked to report to the larger group on what they discussed. This reporting proved popular and often there were lines at the microphones even though the goal was to hear from three tables per question. In a more formal way, three questions were discussed. Insufficient time meant the final question could not be covered in much detail in most groups. Nonetheless, several groups did discuss it and people left some responses. People were invited to physically write on the forms if they wanted to have someone see their responses. So, 49 people left answers which are given below. Most people did not leave written responses, some gave oral responses, and others shared only with their tables. The Lay Luncheon provided a place for lay persons at the conference to listen and be heard. Responses were from lay persons at the conference and the following answers to questions are often presented in the exact words used by respondents, though some have been consolidated. It is worth noting that the greatest point of agreement comes in the visions of the church they want to leave for the next generations.

1) How did you come to join the Methodist faith? Answers to this question were diverse and informative:

Family: The most common answer was family in some context such as, “My parents were Methodists”, “I was born into it,” or “I married into it.”

Location was next with responses like, “The church was the only one in the neighborhood.” One interesting note stated that “My parents accidentally attended the Methodist church because the buildings looked like the Baptist buildings from our old location. They ended up staying.” Several people joined Methodist churches after they had moved from another state and community to a location where there were no churches like the one they previously attended or it was more convenient to attend than others.

Relationships with people and outreach ministries that impacted them was also common, as they became Methodists because of interactions with teachers, youth leaders, pastors, friends in the community, and people who helped others with life issues. One response stated, “I was looking for a surrogate family.”

Doctrine was mentioned in several responses – the Quadrilateral use of reason, spiritual growth, and acceptance of myths and mystery.

Music was the reason they joined the church, from two people. And, finally, two people stressed that they did not join a Methodist church or join the Methodist faith.

They were EUB and when the denominations combined, they were the United part of United Methodist.

2) What is one thing you most like about the church you currently attend?

The most mentioned thing that respondents liked is “the people” in their churches. They feel like the people they worship with are like family, are close friends, support each other, and help them feel like they’re at home. Several felt their churches offer unconditional love and acceptance for them and are inclusive. Others felt their churches were concerned with neighborhood outreach and missions as well as social justice. One response, “I came as a black child in the 19602 when a pastor invited new families into a church that was predominately white.” Spiritual development and growing in faith were also common responses. Three people spoke to the idea that in some churches older people, even in 90s, are challenged to be actively involved, people who are older continue to serve and are appreciated, and that there are “examples of seniors like me who still are actively growing in discipleship”. Some liked the pastor, some the music programs, and two liked the opportunities to sing hymns with which they were familiar. “My church is a place that I can go to sing the old hymns of the church.”

3) What do you see as the greatest challenges for the church today? By far the most common challenges presented by respondents centered around the need to find ways to reach out to the younger generations, especially perceiving a need to bring into the church young families and 21-44 year old individuals. The laity felt that their congregations were aging and not relevant to youth. Other challenges: since the other challenges did not group tightly, they are bulleted below.

o Need to allow all to come to church, making a place for all people Divisions over inclusiveness We are not including everyone We have not created safe places for everyone

o LGBTQ issues “LGBTQ + is tearing my church apart”



“Mountain Sky’s decision to have LBGTQ leaders” Reconciling division around recognition of LGBTQ community.

o Economic challenges Money Lack of resources Financial sustainability

o Staying together Keeping the church I know and love that brought me healing Sticking together “Splitting is a heart-breaking thought to me.” We have Us/Them mentality

o Being recognized and accepted as we share faith through missions. o Finding ways to meet needs of working folk, visitors don’t come back o Technology.

Better websites Need to use technology more effectively

o Pastor does not allow members to share faith in deeds/music. o Apathy, lack of connection to larger denominational body

We do not understand the connection to larger body of Methodists o Listening to one another – with loving hearts and spirits. o Staying focused on Jesus. o Amicable separation. o Fighting the traditional plan. o Resistance to change

Unwilling to adapt Won’t change as culture changes

o The culture is creeping into the church.

4) What sort of church would you like to leave as a legacy for future generations? o Open, inclusive, loving, mission oriented, aspires to show love to each and every person.

Loving church where all are welcome. Loving. Loving all and reaching out Celebrates all and accepts them. Welcomes others with openness and love. Cares for other people, love for all Open minds, hearts, doors! One that practices and shines the true love, the Agape love of Christ. A church that realizes some people have trouble believing and need time to work through issues.

A patient one. Full of love, like a family Doesn’t fuss about differences. Loving community One that does not deal out harshness and guilt Everyone is welcomed and loved Recognizing everyone as children of God Complete because of being open and generous Kind and caring

o Grace filled, focus on Jesus Christ o A church that does not believe in Hell. o A church that is not dominated by males. o Lead by Holy Spirit,

o Spiritual, worship full group o Spirit centered church

o Vibrant, impactful o Community Centered o Stability



o One that still exists. o Unity

o John Wesley’s values

o A church who does no harm, is God focused, is kind and helpful, is and stays in love and relationship with Jesus.

o The Wesleyan Quadrilateral still makes sense. o Accepts people where they are BUT still challenges them to become better versions of themselves. o Sense of social justice. o Lives out faith, not just in pew on Sunday. o A church that does not harm.

The Lay Luncheon provided a place for lay persons at the conference to listen and be heard.

PLENARY SESSION and READING OF THE APPOINTMENTS Saturday, June 16, 2019--2:00 P.M

OPENING PRAYER: Ella Berdahl from First United Methodist Church in Loveland, CO, opened us in prayer. REQUEST TO REMOVE PETITION FROM CONSENT CALENDAR REVISITED: Bishop Karen Oliveto announced a request to remove MSC-10 from the Consent Calendar as amended:

MSC-10 All Are Welcome 97.8% approval • With Amendments:

Line 31: Add Resolved, That we will embrace and support the desires of churches who choose not to perform same sex marriages or desire not have LGBTQIA+ persons as clergy as requested by the local church without repercussions or decreased level of support from the annual conference.

The removal did not pass. POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE: Emily Flemming from the Commission on the Status and Role of Women asked the body to identify their race, pronouns and state to help COSROW track the demographics of people who speak at annual conference. ADOPTION OF CONSENT CALENDAR A: Bishop Karen Oliveto moved to adopt Consent Calendar A. On motion it passed. POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE: Jeremy Scott of Johnstown United Methodist Church in Johnstown, CO informed the body that the selling of the property of Camp on the Boulder monies will go to help young adult ministries in the area. Bishop Karen Oliveto led us in prayer as we say goodbye to Camp on the Boulder. PERSONAL PRIVILEGE: Bishop Karen Oliveto spoke to the amendment on MSC-10. The Bishop is committed to listening to churches’ needs, having our churches thrive, no matter conservative, centrist or progressive, therefore the appointive cabinet will seek to match the needs and expressed interests of local churched with clergy who bring those gifts. SECOND LEGACY YELLOWSTONE LAY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the second ballot to elect a lay delegate to General Conference were read. 86 votes were cast, 2 invalid. 44 votes were needed for election. There was no election. SECOND LEGACY YELLOWSTONE CLERGY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the second ballot to elect a clergy reserve to General Conference/clergy delegate to Jurisdictional Conference were read. 55 votes were cast, no invalid ballot. 29 votes were needed for election. There was no election. SECOND LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN LAY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the second ballot to elect 2 lay delegates to General Conference were read. 316 votes were cast,19 invalid. 159 votes were needed for election. There was no election.



SECOND LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the second ballot to elect clergy delegates to General Conference were read. 182 votes were cast, 13 invalid. 92 votes were needed for election. Rev. Jasper Peters was elected with 107. THIRD LEGACY YELLOWSTONE LAY BALLOT: Following prayer, the ballots to elect a lay delegate to General Conference were cast. THIRD LEGACY YELLOWSTONE CLERGY BALLOT: Following prayer, the ballots to elect a clergy reserve to General Conference/clergy delegate to Jurisdictional Conference were cast. THIRD LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN LAY BALLOT: Following prayer, the ballots to elect 2 Lay delegates to General Conference were cast. THIRD LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT: Following prayer, the ballots to elect a Clergy delegate to General Conference were cast. ADOPTION OF 2020 ANNUAL CONFERENCE BUDGET: Kirsten Barlow presented the $4,364,000 budget for the 2020 year for approval. The motion passed. ADOPTION OF NOMINATIONS REPORT: Burry Bessee and Christina Ostendorf presented the Nominations Report (noting the soon-to-be-coming corrections) for approval. The motion was passed. ADOPTION OF CONSENT CALENDAR B: Carolyn Tarman presented GC-01 Organizational Restructuring of the United Methodist Church to the body. Rev. Mike Nickerson, petition originator, spoke to the petition. AMENDMENT TO GC-01: Farrah Lawrence requested an amendment to GC-01: Strike line 2 after “the exception that…” and replace with the following: All 13 boards and agencies in the UMC will retain the decision-making power to determine how they will retain relationships with churches and annual conferences to continue their work. They can preserve their ability to become autonomous agencies. The General Council on Finance and Administration and the General Board of Pensions and Health Benefits (as known as Wespath) will function as follows. 31% votes were against. 69% votes were for. The amendment passed. FRIENDLY AMENDMENT: John Simmons requested a friendly amendment to the Amendment of GC-01 to change the word “of” to “that” so it will read: “the exception that.” Farrah Lawrence, amendment originator accepted it. FRIENDLY AMENDMENT: Jasper Peters requested a friendly amendment to the Amendment of GC-01 to add “(as known as Wespath)” after “the General Board of Pensions and Health Benefits.” Farrah Lawrence, amendment originator accepted it. POINT OF ORDER: Lee Ferguson, retired clergy asked that the amendment to GC-01 be ruled out of order. Bishop Karen Oliveto ruled it in order. MOTION TO RECONSIDER: Terry Turner, retired clergy from Helena, Montana, requested we vote to reconsider the amendment to GC-01. 79% disapproved and 21% approved. The amendment did not pass. MOTION TO REFER: Joel Kershaw made a motion to refer petition GC-01 to the committee that created MSC-09. 47% votes in favor and 53% votes not in favor. The motion to refer was not passed. POINT OF ORDER: Brad Laurvick, Highlands United Methodist Church, Highlands, CO raised the point that no other group may speak for the annual conference between sessions. Upon consultation with the conference chancellor Richard Marsh, the Bishop ruled that the Conference Roundtable may speak for the conference between sessions of the conference. INTRODUCTIONS AND RECOGNITIONS: Bishop Karen Oliveto introduced Annie Arnoldy as the new Superintendent of Leadership Development and Director of Connectional Ministries. Youngsook Kang introduced the Conference staff and a staff video was presented. Bishop Karen Oliveto announced Youngsook Kang’s retirement and introduced Laurie Day as the new Director of Connectional Ministries of the Oregon/Idaho Conference. The Bishop thanked and welcomed other staff who are



transitioning. Youngsook Kang recognized the Hospitality Committee from the Billings, Montana area, and Chair, Sara Neff, thanked her committee as well. Youngsook Kang recognized Phil Rogers as the interim Young Adult and Camping Ministries Director. PREVIOUS QUESTION: Aaron Gray moved to call the question. The motion was approved. ADOPTION OF CONSENT CALENDAR B: 71% voted to approve and 29% voted not to approve. GC-01 failed to receive 80% approval to be endorsed by the Annual Conference as a petition to General Conference. THIRD LEGACY YELLOWSTONE LAY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the third ballot to elect a lay delegate to General were read. 84 votes were cast, 3 invalid. 43 votes were needed for election. There was no election. THIRD LEGACY YELLOWSTONE CLERGY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the third ballot to elect a clergy reserve to General Conference/clergy delegate to Jurisdictional Conference were read. 50 votes were cast, no invalid. 26 votes were needed for election. There was no election. THIRD LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN LAY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the third ballot to elect a lay delegate to General Conference were read. 313 votes were cast, 8 invalid. 158 votes were needed for election. Harvey Tukutau was elected with 183 votes. THIRD LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the third ballot to elect a clergy delegate to General Conference were read. 178 votes were cast, 4 invalid. 90 votes were needed for election. There was no election. FOURTH LEGACY YELLOWSTONE LAY BALLOT: Following prayer, the ballots to elect Lay delegates to General Conference were cast. FOURTH LEGACY YELLOWSTONE CLERGY BALLOT: Following prayer, the ballots to elect a clergy reserve to General Conference/clergy delegate to Jurisdictional Conference were cast. FOURTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN LAY BALLOT: Following prayer, the ballots to elect a Lay delegate to General Conference were cast. FOURTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT: Following prayer, the ballots to elect a Clergy delegate to General Conference were cast. PRAYER REQUEST: Prayers were lifted up for Cleveland McSwain who suffered a heart attack. POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE: Michael Dent, Retired Clergy, updated the body on his house fire. He now resides in Texas. AGENDA REPORT: Bishop Karen Oliveto announced that plenary session will convene again at 9:00 p.m. this evening.

MEMORIAL AND COMMUNION SERVICE Saturday, June 15, 2019 – 5:00 P.M.

The Conference reconvened in the Billings Conference Center for a Communion and Memorial Service. The liturgy of the service was planned and coordinated by the worship subcommittee of the Program and Arrangements Committee. The spouses memorialized were Marilyn Bradley-Barber, Ruth Bollinger, Margaret Elaine Cribbs, Barbara Day, Margaret “Margo” Fixter, Ruth Henard, Shirley Johnson, Mildred Persons, Cindy Peacock, Inez Elaine Prather, Ernestine Sullivan, Lenore Muriel Truscott, Virginia Van Skike . The clergy memorialized were: Robert Linn Barnes, Robert C. Coburn, Fred Stanley Collins, Wallace Dean Finley, Franklin Oliver Gunter, George Hanabusa, Margaret Rush Hankins, Delbert W. Hansen, Charles Evans Heath, Robert Eldon Hunter, William Raymond Iiams, Robert Irving Phelps, Roger Robison, Albert W. Scarffe, Jarrell Leon Tharp. An offering was taken for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. The Conference Band provided music for the service.



PLENARY SESSION and

READING OF THE APPOINTMENTS Saturday, June 16, 2019--9:00 P.M

OPENING PRAYER: Donnie Holt from First United Methodist Church in Douglas, WY opened us in prayer. FOURTH LEGACY YELLOWSTONE LAY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the fourth ballot to elect a lay delegate to General Conference were read. 77 votes were cast, 3 invalid. 40 votes were needed for election. Don McCammon was elected with 46 votes. FOURTH LEGACY YELLOWSTONE CLERGY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the fourth ballot to elect a clergy reserve to General Conference/clergy delegate to Jurisdictional Conference were read. 50 votes were cast, 0 invalid, 26 votes were needed for election. There was no election. FOURTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN LAY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the fourth ballot to elect a lay delegate to General Conference were read. 287 votes were cast, 15 invalid. 145 votes were needed for election. Gayla Jo Slauson was elected with 148 votes. FOURTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the fourth ballot to elect a clergy delegate to General Conference were read. 168 votes were cast, 4 invalid. 85 votes were needed for election. Kent Ingram was elected with 95. FIFTH LEGACY YELLOWSTONE LAY BALLOT: Following prayer, the fifth ballots to elect a lay reserve delegate to General Conference/lay delegate to Jurisdictional Conference were cast. FIFTH LEGACY YELLOWSTONE CLERGY BALLOT: Following prayer, the ballots to elect a clergy reserve delegate to General Conference/clergy delegate to Jurisdictional Conference were cast. FIFTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN LAY BALLOT: Following prayer, the ballots to elect 7 Lay delegates to Jurisdictional Conference were cast. FIFTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT: Following prayer, the ballots to elect 7 Clergy delegates to Jurisdictional Conference were cast. SUSPENSION OF THE RULES: Bishop Karen Oliveto asked the body to consider suspending the rules to receive a late petition request. It was approved. POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE: Carol Rhan from Glendive United Methodist Church in Glendive, Montana and also a veteran, announced that the US Army celebrated pride month in Fort Greeley, Alaska. PETITION MSC-12 PRESENTATION: Ben Roe, petition originator, presented his petition titled: Western Jurisdiction College of Bishops to Convene Special Western Jurisdiction Conference. It was approved. READING OF THE APPOINTMENTS: Bishop Karen Oliveto fixed the appointments for the coming year with each district superintendent assisting. Paul Kottke, Superintendent of metro Denver, announced each appointment and asked each person to stand. He closed in prayer. POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE: Elizabeth McVicker offered a prayer for Janice Angermyer who was rushed to the hospital from plenary session. READING OF THE APPOINTMENTS CONTINUED: Deborah Christine, Eastern Montana District Superintendent, announced each appointment and asked each person to stand. She closed in prayer. COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS FUNDING PLAN APPROVAL: Dennis Reese from Lakeside, Montana moved to adopt the Comprehensive Benefits Funding Plan. The motion was passed.



POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE: Sharon McCormick, retired clergy, offered a prayer for Jamie Martin’s husband, Mike, who is in the hospital with blood clots. READING OF THE APPOINTMENTS CONTINUED: Jan Witman, Western Montana District Superintendent, announced each appointment and asked each person to stand. She closed in prayer. Tezenlo Thong, Superintendent of the Pikes Peak and Peaks, announced each appointment and asked each person to stand. He closed in prayer. Chris Carr, Trinity and Northeast Plains, announced each appointment and asked each person to stand. He closed in prayer. Marv Vose, Superintendent of Utah/Western CO District, announced each appointment and asked each person to stand. He closed in prayer. FIFTH LEGACY YELLOWSTONE LAY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the fifth ballot to elect a lay reserve to General Conference/ lay delegate to Jurisdictional Conference were read. 61 votes were cast, 0 invalid. 32 votes were needed for election. Camille Castles was elected with 49 votes. FIFTH LEGACY YELLOWSTONE CLERGY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the fifth ballot to elect a clergy reserve to General Conference/clergy delegate to Jurisdictional Conference were read. 37 votes were cast, 0 invalid. 20 votes were needed for election. Mark Calhoun was elected with 22 votes. FIFTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN LAY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the fifth ballot to elect 7 lay delegates to Jurisdictional Conference were read. 234 votes were cast, 7 invalid. 138 votes were needed for election. Aileen Jimenez with 211 votes, Stephanie Moffitt with 208 votes, Kunle Taiwo with 200 votes, Doug Palmer with 200 votes, Amy Go with 170 votes, Judy Hill with 140 votes, Isaac Strauss with 134 votes were elected. FIFTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the fifth ballot to elect 7 clergy delegates to Jurisdictional Conference were read. 152 votes were cast, 7 invalid. 77 votes were needed for election. Valerie L. Jackson with 136 votes, Jessica Rooks with 134 votes, Megan Armstrong with 113 votes, Jeff Rainwater with 103 votes, Emily Hagan with 99 votes and Travis Walker with 78 votes were elected. TUG-OF-LOVE REPORT: Mark Calhoun reported that team blue raised $2515, team green raised $1733, team orange raised $2403, team purple raised $1954, for a grand total of $8606. SIXTH LEGACY YELLOWSTONE LAY BALLOT: Following prayer, the ballots to elect alternate Lay delegates to General Conference were cast. SIXTH LEGACY YELLOWSTONE CLERGY BALLOT: Following prayer, the ballots to elect 3 clergy alternate delegates to General Conference were cast. SIXTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN LAY BALLOT: Following prayer, the ballots to elect three Lay reserves to Jurisdictional Conference were cast. SIXTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT: Following prayer, the ballots to elect a Clergy delegate to Jurisdictional Conference were cast. POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE: Aaron Gray spoke to the sensitivity about the relationship with the Central Conferences of the United Methodist Church. READING OF THE APPOINTMENTS CONTINUED: Jeff Rainwater, dean of cabinet and Superintendent of Wyoming, announced each appointment and each person to stand. He closed in prayer. PERSONAL PRIVELEGE: Bishop Karen Oliveto invited everyone to go on a John Wesley tour with her in April of 2020. INVITATION: The 2020 Mountain Sky Conference Session will take place June 18- 21, 2020 in Gillette, WY. SIXTH LEGACY YELLOWSTONE LAY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the sixth ballot to elect lay alternates to General Conference were read. 52 votes were cast. 2 were invalid. 27 votes were needed for election. Diane Martin with 45 votes, Maryann Hall with 39 votes and Grant Skerritt with 30 votes were elected.



SIXTH LEGACY YELLOWSTONE CLERGY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the sixth ballot to elect 3 clergy alternate delegates to General Conference were read. 33 votes were cast. 4 were invalid. 18 votes were needed for election. Sami Pack-Toner with 31 votes, Jan Witman with 24 votes and Jeremy Scott with 18 votes were elected. SIXTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN LAY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the sixth ballot to elect 3 lay reserves to Jurisdictional Conference were read. 204 votes were cast, 5 invalid. 103 votes were needed for election. John Angermyer with 177 votes, Susan McIntosh with 162 votes and Lola Spradley with 127 votes were elected. SIXTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the sixth ballot to elect a clergy delegate to Jurisdictional Conference were read. 131 votes were cast, 3 invalid. 67 votes were needed for election. No election. POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE: Madison Jester, youth from Arvada United Methodist, Arvada, CO thanked the Conference for the opportunity to be here and to spend time dancing during the down time. SEVENTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT: Following prayer, the standing votes to elect a Clergy delegate to Jurisdictional Conference were cast. SEVENTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT RESULTS: The results of the seventh ballot to elect a clergy delegate to Jurisdictional Conference were read. 79 votes were cast, no invalid. 41 votes were needed for election. Eric Smith with 47 votes was elected. EIGHTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT: Following prayer, the standing votes to elect 3 Clergy reserves to Jurisdictional Conference were cast. EIGHTH LEGACY ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLERGY BALLOT RESULTS: The results to elect 3 clergy reserves to Jurisdictional Conference were read. 79 votes were cast, no invalid. 41 votes were needed for election. Phil Rogers with 78 votes, Tiffany Keith with 76 votes and Sione Tukutau with 72 votes were elected. ADJOURNMENT: Bishop Karen Oliveto moved to adjourn the Second Session of the Mountain Sky Annual Conference by sine die call of the Council of Bishops following the ordination and commissioning service.

PASSING THE MANTLE and ORDINATION AND COMMISSIONING SERVICE

Sunday, June 16, 2019 – 8:30 A.M.

Bishop Karen Oliveto preached on Exodus 3:1-16, 4:1-13. An offering was collected to support youth and young adults who have experienced harm. Thomas Barlow read the list of retirees who were recognized for their years of service: Lester Huseby, Jerry Lee Collins, Jeffrey Mahan, Nancy Mead, Jeff Babb, Anne Davidson-Mundt, Steven Earnshaw, P. Dave Greep, Youngsook Kang, David McGee, Dennis Shaw, Sandra Stewart, David Logan, Jolain Graf, Qamaruzzman Bhatti. Jessica Rooks, chair of the Board of Ordained Ministry, introduced those to be commissioned and ordained at this Annual Conference. These included: Confirming licenses to Local Pastors: Vickie Alvarado Ashley Hawkins Olympia Tukutau Commissioning Provisional members towards elder’s orders: Angela Marie Dornisch Cherie B. Cobb ` Roger Buzz King Peter Jisung Lee Lauretta Anne Lundquist Amber Rose Mitts Michael Dean Paschall Brenda Mary Torrie



Commissioning Provisional members towards deacon’s orders: Haley Wynn Andreades Kelsey Linden Hill Ordained as elders in full connection: Yevette Christy Sherry Ann Ferriman Byoungwk Jeon KyeongSu Jung Emily Carr Kintzel Dawn Maurer Skerritt Llewellyn Ashville Ward II Ordained as deacon in full connection: Kaitlin Elise Elmore RECEPTION: A reception was held at the Billings Conference Center.



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daily proceedings the second session of mountain sky … · 2019 mountain sky conference journal...

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