May 29-June 1 ● Topeka, KS Kansas Expocentre

Workbook

Therefore Go: Serve Others2019 Annual Conference Session Schedule

May 29 – June 1, 2019Kansas Expocentre, Topeka KS

Wednesday, May 29, 201910:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. ERT Training - River Room-Capitol Plaza 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Registration Open – Atrium-Expocentre4:00 p.m. Secretary & Teller Training 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Meet and Greet

Clergy - Emerald II - Capitol PlazaLaity - Emerald I - Capitol Plaza

7:00 p.m. Service of Celebration and Table - Landon Arena Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr. Preaching

Thursday, May 30, 2019 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Registration – Atrium-Expocentre 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Clergy Session – Sunflower Ballroom-Capitol Plaza

Laity Session – Landon Arena-Expocentre10:00 a.m. – 10:25 a.m. Break10:25 a.m.– 12:00 p.m. Opening of Great Plains Annual Conference – Landon Arena Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr.

Call to Order and Enabling Motions Rev. Nan Kaye-SkinnerApproval of Standing Rules Rev. Lew Kaye-SkinnerLaity Address Lisa MaupinEpiscopal Address Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr.First Ballot for Election

12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Adjournment for Lunch

Thursday, May 30, 2019 Emphasis on leadership development 1:30 p.m. -2:50 p.m. Report of the GC Delegation Oliver Green

Board of Ordained Ministry Report Rev. Amy Lippoldt Introduction of RetireesExecutive Team ReportCongregational Excellence Report Rev. Nathan StantonClergy Excellence Report Rev. Nancy Lambert

2:50 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. Break3:15 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Commissioning of Interns Rev. Nicole Conard

Lay Leadership Development Shane Warta & Mary FeitCamping Ministry Stuart MackCampus Ministry Rev. April WegehauptSaint Paul School of Theology Report President Neil BlairTreasurers Report Scott BrewerCouncil on Finance and Administration Report Rev. Zach AndersonPension and Health Benefits Report Mike Shockley

4:30 p.m. Adjourn5:00 p.m Retirement Dinner and Celebration – Sunflower Ballroom-Capitol Plaza 7:30 p.m. Memorial Service – First United Methodist – Topeka-600 SW Topeka Blvd.

Rev. Chris Jorgensen Preaching

Friday, May 31, 2019 Emphasis on vitality of congregations8:15 a.m. – 9:50 a.m. Youth-led Worship – Landon Arena

Reports from Nebraska and Kansas Foundations Jackie Urkoski Resolution on Kansas Area Foundation Inclusive Scope pg. 12 Rev. Dustin Petz Nominations Report Rev. Tessa Zehring Possibliity Conversations

10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Break10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Plenary Speaker-Landon Arena

Rev. Mike Mather, Broadway UMC“Ministry as if the Gospel is True”

12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Adjournment for LunchFriday, May 31, 20191:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. United Methodist Women Karen Dunlap

United Methodist Men Charles FileChurch Closings District SuperintendentsCongregational Excellence Rev. Nathan StantonMercy and Justice Rev. Sarah MarshTrustees Report Loyd HamrickHistory and Archives (150 year anniversaries) Rev. Mik King

3:00 p.m. – 3:25 p.m. Break3:25 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Lydia Paterson Institute Socorro Brito De Anda

ResolutionsRenewal Leave for ClergyAmendment to Safe GatheringsChange to Clergy Health Benefits

5:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

Saturday, June 1, 20198:30 a.m. – 8:45 a.m. 8:45 a.m. – 9:50 a.m.

Adjournment for Dinner

Ordination Service – Landon Arena Rev. Adam Hamilton Preaching

Gathering MusicResolutions and Petitions

Resolution for Creation CareResponse to Climate ChangeConscientious Dissent of the Traditional PlanScience of Sexual Orientation Study Guide

Council on Finance and Administration Report Rev. Zach Anderson9:50 a.m. – 10:20 a.m. Break10:20 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Closing Motions Rev. Nan Kaye-Skinner

Introduction of Delegation Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr.Introduction of Extended CabinetClosing Worship and Fixing of Appointments

12:00 p.m. Adjournment of Annual Conference

Other room information:Prayer Room – Wheat B-Capitol PlazaParents/Lactation room – Star A – Behind the stage

Meals during Annual Conference:*All meals require pre-registration

Wednesday, May 295:00 p.m. United Methodist Men Dinner and Auction-Countryside UMC

Thursday, May 307:00 a.m. Missouri River District Breakfast-Shawnee A 7:00 a.m. Kansas City District Breakfast-Bison Room 7:00 a.m. Extension Ministry Breakfast-River Room

12:00 p.m. No Program Lunch-Expo Hall12:00 p.m. Mission Partnership Lunch-Shawnee Room12:00 p.m. Wesley Seminary Theological Gathering

Countryside UMC – 3221 SW Burlingame Rd., Topeka, KS 66611

5:00 p.m. Retiree Dinner-Sunflower Ballroom

Friday, May 316:45 a.m. Elkhorn Valley District Breakfast-River Room7:00 a.m. Blue River District Breakfast-Bison Room

12:00 p.m. No Program Lunch-Expo Hall12:00 p.m. Youth & Campus Ministry Lunch-Shawnee Room 12:00 p.m. United Methodist Women Lunch-Emerald Ballroom III-IV12:00 p.m. Saint Paul School of Theology Alumni Lunch-Falling Water Grille, Capitol Plaza Hotel

5:00 p.m. No Program Dinner-Expo Hall5:00 p.m. Ordination Dinner-Shawnee B&C

May 1, 2019

Dear Conference Members:

Welcome to the sixth annual meeting of the Great Plains Annual Conference. It is always exciting to have United Methodists from Nebraska and Kansas gathering together. The Sessions planning team is working on the last details to help you have the best experience possible. This workbook contains most of the information you will need to be informed prior to coming to annual conference. Be sure to pay attention to the schedule in the packet you receive at registration as there may be some changes.

We hope you will take the time to view the video about what to expect at annual conference at https://vimeo.com/333387897.

This year, our theme is “Therefore Go: Serve Others,” helping us to focus on how we engage in ministry that affirms the dignity and giftedness of all persons, especially those whom we do not know and who might live in the same neighborhood as our church. Rev. Mike Mather, currently serving Broadway UMC in Indianapolis, will be the plenary speaker Friday morning, sharing with us how members of his congregation have transformed the way they interact with their neighbors and been change agents to lift people out of poverty.

Annual Conference opens with a Service of Celebration and Communion on Wednesday, May 29. But don’t forget to arrive in time to make connections at the “Meet and Greet” reception from 4:00 – 5:30 on Wednesday. I hope you are like me, and find you know more people each year we gather as the Great Plains Annual Conference. You will be able to register Wednesday afternoon if you would like.

Other happenings through the week include a pre-conference ERT training, retirement celebration, memorial service, ordination worship service, and a 5K run. We’ll also learn more about what is happening across our conference and make decisions about how we live and work together.

Together we will work to spread the Wesleyan witness in the communities where we live as we make decisions about how we will be The United Methodist Church. See you in Topeka!

Grace and peace,

Rev. Nancy LambertDirector of Clergy Excellence/Assistant to the Bishop

https://vimeo.com/333387897

Greetings Laity of the Great Plains!

Thank you for representing your congregation and serving as a member of the 2019 Great Plains Annual Conference. Your representation, voice and leadership are vital to the process as we explore the theme “Therefore Go: Serve Others,” May 29 to June 1 at the Kansas Expocentre in Topeka, Kansas.

As your Conference Lay Leader, I look forward to meeting with you, having conversations, brainstorming ideas for new mission and ministries and most importantly celebrating with you the ministry successes your congregations and communities have experience this past year. Our congregations and our laity are doing amazing work around our conference and I can’t wait to take moments with you to honor that work. I encourage you to introduce yourself to me at any time during the Annual Conference session. Come prepared with your mission and ministries stories!

For those of you attending as a lay member to Annual Conference for the first time, I know that it can feel like an overwhelming process. The Conference Lay Leadership team is here for you! Please do not hesitate to ask questions or clarifications from any one of us. We all remember our first time at Annual Conference want to see you be successful in your leadership role.

If you are a new lay member or even a returning member, see below for helpful tips to maximize your experience at the Annual Conference session.

● Before you arrive: print off and review the pre-conference workbook materials from the conference website.A limited amount of copies will be available for sale at registration when you check in. The workbook materials willbe available in May on the conference website.

● Inform and discuss the issues that will be voted on at Annual Conference with members of your church.● Other items you may need: a copy of the Laity Delegate profiles, the 2016 Book of Discipline (optional),

comfortable shoes (a must) and your Bible.

Laity are important to the life and breath of the church. Our presence and leadership at Annual Conference is our opportunity to lend our voice and perspective to the decision making and foundational work of the Great Plains United Methodist Annual Conference. Your time, commitment and preparation is appreciated and recognized.

Thank you for answering the call to lead and serve!

Blessings,

Lisa MaupinGreat Plains Conference Lay Leader

TABLE OF CONTENTS

A. Conference Action1. Standing Rules for Sessions of the Great Plains Annual Conference ................................................ 1

a. Voice and Vote Table .................................................................................................................... 5b. Election Process ............................................................................................................................ 6

2. Fast Facts .......................................................................................................................................... 73. Budget Summary Statement ............................................................................................................ 84. Pensions and Health Benefits Items for Action ................................................................................ 85. Personnel Items for Action ............................................................................................................... 116. Church Closings & Resolutions

RESOLUTION #1 - Kansas Area foundation Inclusive Scope ............................................................ 12 RESOLUTION #2 - Kilgore UMC ....................................................................................................... 15 RESOLUTION #3 - Trinity Community Church ................................................................................. 16 RESOLUTION #4 - Valley View UMC ................................................................................................ 16 RESOLUTION #5 - Chetopa-St. Paul UMC ....................................................................................... 17 RESOLUTION #6 - Ada UMC ............................................................................................................ 17 RESOLUTION #7 - Delphos UMC ..................................................................................................... 18 RESOLUTION #8 - Portis UMC ......................................................................................................... 19 RESOLUTION #9 - Robinson UMC ................................................................................................... 20 RESOLUTION #10- Hicks Chapel UMC ............................................................................................. 20 RESOLUTION #11- Renewal Leave ................................................................................................... 21 RESOLUTION #12- Amendment to Safe Gatherings ........................................................................ 22 RESOLUTION #13- Change to Clergy Health Benefits ...................................................................... 22 RESOLUTION #14- Creation Care ..................................................................................................... 23 RESOLUTION #15- Response to Climate Change ............................................................................. 24

RESOLUTION #16- Conscientious Dissent to the Traditional Plan ................................................... 25 PETITION # 1 -Science of Sexual Oriententation Study Guide ................................................. 257. Nominations Committee .................................................................................................................. 27

B. Conference Reports1. Administrative services

a. Commission on Archives and History .......................................................................................... 42c. Board of Pension and Health Benefits ......................................................................................... 42d. Board of Trustees ......................................................................................................................... 46e. Episcopacy Committee ................................................................................................................. 47

2. Connecting Council Report ............................................................................................................... 483. Clergy Excellence

a. Great Plains Board of Ordained Ministry ...................................................................................... 49b. Transition into Ministry ................................................................................................................ 49

4. Congregational Excellencea. Congregational Excellence ............................................................................................................ 50b. Vital Congregations Team ............................................................................................................. 51c. New Church Development ............................................................................................................ 52d. Great Plains United Methodist Camps, Inc. .................................................................................. 52e. United Methodist Campus Ministry, Inc. ...................................................................................... 54

5. Mercy and Justicea. Mercy and Justice Team ................................................................................................................ 56b. Disaster Response Team ............................................................................................................... 56c. Peace with Justice Ministries ........................................................................................................ 57d. Holy Land Task Force .................................................................................................................... 58

6. Miscellaneousa. Lay Servant Ministries ................................................................................................................... 59b. United Methodist Women ............................................................................................................ 59

C. Mission Agencies1. Universities

a. Baker University ........................................................................................................................... 60 b. Kansas Wesleyan University ......................................................................................................... 60c. Nebraska Wesleyan University ..................................................................................................... 62d. Southwestern College .................................................................................................................. 62

2. Health and Welfare Institutionsa. Aldersgate Village ......................................................................................................................... 63b. E.C. Tyree Health & Dental Clinic .................................................................................................. 65b. Ember Hope ................................................................................................................................ 65c. Epworth Village ............................................................................................................................ 66d. Gracemed Health Clinic, Inc. ........................................................................................................ 67

3. Ministries with the Poora. Friendship House United Methodist Church and the House of Hope-Ogden .............................. 68b. Immigrant Legal Center (JFON) .................................................................................................... 69c. United Methodist Open Door, Inc. ............................................................................................... 70 d. Big Garden/United Methodist Ministries, Missouri River District ................................................ 70e. Wesley House .............................................................................................................................. 71f. Rural Response Hotline ................................................................................................................ 72

D. South Central Jurisdiction1. Lydia Patterson Institute ............................................................................................................... 74

E. University & Seminary Reports1. Africa University ........................................................................................................................... 752. Boston University ......................................................................................................................... 753. Candler School of Theology ......................................................................................................... 774. Drew Theological Seminary .......................................................................................................... 775. Saint Paul School of Theology ...................................................................................................... 786. United Theological Seminary ....................................................................................................... 797. Wesley Theological Seminary ....................................................................................................... 80

F. Miscellaneous1. United Methodist Health Ministry Fund ...................................................................................... 822. General Board of Higher Education & Ministry (GBHEM) ............................................................ 833. Kansas Area Foundation ............................................................................................................... 834. Nebraska Area Foundation ........................................................................................................... 855. Fellowship and Faith Ministry, Inc. ............................................................................................... 86

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A. Conference Action1. Standing Rules for Sessions of the Great Plains Annual Conference A. Rules of order and parliamentary procedures. The current Book of Discipline and the most recenteditionofRobert’sRulesofOrdershallbetheguidesandauthorityforparliamentary procedureintheconductofallsessionbusiness. 1.Theserulesmaybesuspendedoramendedbyatwo‑thirdsmajorityofmembers presentandvoting. 2. Nodecisionsoftheconferencemaybeoverturnedonproceduralgroundsafterthe adjournmentoftheconference. 3. Theagendashallbethefinaldistributedformatthebeginningofthesession.Inthe interestofefficiency,thechairmayadjustagendaitemsasnecessary. 4. TheBaroftheConferenceshallbeasdesignatedintheEnablingMotionsadoptedat thebeginningofthesession.OnlymemberswithintheBarmayvote.However,a memberoutsidetheBar,absentonconferencebusinessattheconferencevenue andapprovedbyconferenceorder,mayvotebyabsenteeballot. B. Membership, Privilege of the Floor, and Attendance. 1. Privilege of the Floor:AlllayandclergymembersoftheGreatPlainsAnnualConference, aswellasclergyfromotherconferencesordenominationsservingchurcheswithintheGreatPlainsAnnualConference,shallhaveprivilegeofthefloorandmayaddressthesessiononanyissuebeforethebody.PersonsservingasDistrict SuperintendentAssignees(DA)orCertifiedLayMinisters(CLM)shallhavevoiceaslaymembersoftheConference.ThisprivilegeshallbeextendedaswelltothespouseoftheBishop;toanymembersofConference,GeneralorJurisdictionalboards,agenciesorinstitutionswhoarenototherwisemembersoftheannualconference;toallmembersoftheextendedcabinet;andtoanyoneelsepresentingitemsontheagenda. 2. Lay Equalization Plan for Annual Conference Membership:Theformulaforlay/clergy equalizationwasdeterminedatUnitingConference.For purposes of this formula,thenumbersusedshallbethoseintheofficialJournalofthepreviousAnnual ConferencesessionassubmittedtotheGeneralCouncilonFinanceandAdministration. a. Consistentwiththeprovisionsof¶32and602.4ofTheBookofDisciplineofThe UnitedMethodistChurch‑2012,thebasiclaymembershipoftheannualconferenceshall include: (a)Churcheswithmorethanoneappointedclergywillreceiveanadditional laymemberforeachclergyappointedtothechurch. (b)Alldeaconesses,diaconalministersandhomemissionerswhoare servingwithinboundsoftheannualconference. (c)TheconferencepresidentofUnitedMethodistWomen. (d)TheconferencepresidentofUnitedMethodistMen. (e)Theconferencelayleader. (f)Oneyoungpersonbetweentheagesof12and17fromeachdistrict,to beselectedbytheDistrictCouncilonYouthMinistry(orequivalentstructure). (g)Oneyoungpersonbetweentheagesof18and30fromeachdistrict,to beselectedbytheDistrictCouncilonMinistry(orequivalentstructure). (h)Eachdistrictlayleader. (i)ConferenceDirectorofLayServantMinistries. (j)ConferenceSecretaryofGlobalMinistries. (k)Thepresidentoftheconferenceyoungadultorganization. (l)Thepresidentoftheconferenceyouthorganization. (m)Thechairoftheconferencecollegestudentorganization. (n)Alllaycampusministers,chaplainsandWesleyFoundationdirectors servingwithintheboundsoftheAnnualConference.

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(o)Foreachclergycampusminister,chaplainandWesleyFoundationdirector,there shallbealayboardmemberorstudentfromtheministry. b.InadditiontothelaymembersofannualconferencemandatedbyTheBookofDiscipline (¶32and602.4),thefirstpriorityinequalizingthenumberoflayandclergymemberswill betograntalaymemberfromeachlocalchurch. c.If,aftermeetingtherequirementsof1and2above,additionallaymembershippositions areavailable,laypeopleassignedbydistrictsuperintendentstoserveaspastorsoflocal churchesDistrictSuperintendentAssignment(DA)andCertifiedLayMinisters(CLM)will beseatedaslaymembers. d.If,aftermeetingtherequirementsof1,2and3above,additionallaymembershippositions arestillavailable,theywillbefilledinthefollowingorderofpriority: (a)Anadditionalyouthfromeachdistrict,tobeselectedbytheDistrictCouncilon YouthMinistry(orequivalentstructure). (b)Associateconferencelayleader(s) (c)ChairpersonsofconferenceboardsandteamsandtheConferenceSecretary, ConferenceTreasurerandPeacewithJusticeCoordinator(iflaity). (d)Onepersonofcolorfromeachdistrict,selectedbytheDistrictCouncilonMinistry (orequivalentstructure). (e)AllelectedlaymembersofgeneralboardsandagenciesfromourConference. (f)AlldelegatesandreservedelegateselectedtotheGeneralandJurisdictional Conferences. (g)FivelaymembersoftheConferenceBoardofOrdainedMinistry(tobeselected bythelaymembersoftheConferenceBoardofOrdainedMinistry). (h)DistrictdirectorsofLayServantMinistries. (i)Anadditionalyoungadult(ages18‑30)fromeachdistricttobeselectedbythe DistrictCouncilonMinistry(orequivalentstructure). (j)SeventeenadditionalyouthasdeterminedbytheConferenceCouncilonYouth Ministries. (k)Additionallaymembersaschosenbytheconferencesecretary. 3. Roll Call:Rollwillbetakenbythesigningofattendancecards.Cardsnotsubmittedbytheendifthesessionwillnotbeaccepted.Membersshallberesponsibleforindicating whichdaystheywillbeinattendance.Ifchangesinattendancebecomenecessaryforlay members,thealternatelaymembershallreporttothesecretarialstafftobeseated. 4. Excuses for Pastoral Absences:Excusesforpastoralabsenceforcauseduringthesession shallbesecuredfromtherespectivedistrictsuperintendents,ratherthanfromthefloorof theconference.Theclergypersonmustalsosendwrittennotification(byletteroremail)to theconferencesecretarysettingforththereason(¶602.8). 5. Addressing the Body: a. Thosewhowishtoaddressthebodyshallmoveinanorderlymannertoamicrophoneand waittobecalleduponbythechair. b.Whenaddressingthebody,membersshallidentifythemselvesbyname,churchorcurrent appointmentanddistrict.Thispracticemayberelaxedatthechair’sdiscretion,suchas whenaparticularindividualbyvirtueofofficeorroleaddressestheconferencemultiple timesinasingleplenarysession. C. Conference Secretary:Proceedingsofthesessionshallberecordedinamannerdeterminedbythe secretaryandstaff.Thesecretaryshalldailyreviewandconsolidaterecordsofthesessiontoensure accuracyoftheofficialrecordandrecommendadoptionbytheannualconference.Thesecretaryshalledit andpublishtheminutesandreports,whichwhenpublished,shallbetheofficialreportoftheconference. D. Items in Writing: a. Anymatterrequiringactionbytheannualconferenceshallbeprintedandinthehandsofthe membersoftheconferenceatleastfoursessionhourspriortoactionorovernightforactionthe followingday,tobemonitoredbytheconferencesecretary.Suchitemsforgeneraldistributionshall bepreparedanddistributedbythesponsoringpersonoragencyattheirownexpense. b. Allreportsandmainmotionsmustbesubmittedtotheconferencesecretaryonpaperorinan electronicformatdeterminedbythesecretary.Allmotionstoamendshallbecommittedtowriting andsubmittedeitherwhenbeingmovedorimmediatelyafterward.

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c. Privilegedandsubsidiarymotionsotherthanmotionstoamendshallberecordedbythe conferencesecretaryandsecretarialstaffandneednotbesubmittedinwriting.(Privileged motionsincludeAdjournment,Recess,QuestionofPrivilege,andOrderoftheDay. SubsidiarymotionsincludeLayontheTable,PreviousQuestion,LimitorExtendtheLimitsof Debate,PostponetoaCertainTimeandRefer.) E. Debate: a. Membersshallspeaknomorethantwiceonagivenitemnorlongerthanthree(3)minutesat agiventimewithoutspecialpermissionfromthechair. b.LimitationofDebate: (a)Whenthechairdeterminestheagendatobe30minutesbehindscheduleorat his/herdiscretion,thechairmaydeclarethatdebateonmotionsshallbelimitedtotwo speechesforandtwospeechesagainst,nottoexceedtwominutesperspeech.This limitationshallincludeallowinganymembertospeakonlyonceonagivenitem.Ifthe chairdeterminestheconferenceagendahasreturnedtoschedule,thechair maydeclarethelimitondebatetobelifted. (b)Atanytimewhenthislimitationisineffect,anymemberofthebodymaymoveto suspendthelimitationforaparticularitemorseriesofitems.Suchamotionisnot debatableandrequiresatwo‑thirdsmajority. (c)Thislimitationofdebateshallnotapplytosub‑groupsoranyothercommittee (d)WithRespectinDebate: (a)InaccordancewithJohnWesley’sgeneralrulestodoallthegoodthatyoucanand todonoharm,debateistobeconductedinanatmosphereofrespectinlisteningand speaking,includingrefrainingfromapplauseduringdebate. (b)CertainrulesofrespectarealreadyaddressedinRobert’sRulesofOrder;the extramileofrespectmaybedoneinthemodelofHolyConferencingor othercommunicationmodels. F. Voting Matters: 1. Whenballotingforrepresentatives delegatestoGeneralandJurisdictionalConferences,any individual’sballotshallbeinvalidinanyofthefollowinginstances: (a)Fewerormorenamesaremarkedthanareneededforthatround. (b)Alaypersonisselectedonaclergyballotoraclergypersonisselectedonalay ballot. (c)Apersonalreadyelectedoranineligiblenameisselectedontheballot. (d)Apersonisselectedtwiceonasingleballot. 2. Thereshallbenovotingbyproxyfordelegates. 3. Betweensessions,whenthebishop,inconsultationwiththeConnectingCouncil,determines thatamatteroftheannualconferencecannotwaituntilthenextregularsession,avotemay betakenbyemailand/ormailballot. (a) Themembersoftheannualconference(layandclergy)whoareeligibletovotewill benotifiedthatavotewillbetakenandinformedoftheissueviaelectronicand writtenmethods. (b) BallotsshallbesentoutviawrittenandelectronicmeansbytheConference SecretaryincoordinationwiththeofficeoftheBishop.Ballotswillbereceivedand countedbytheconferencesecretary. (c) Reasonabletimewillbegivenforthebodytorespondandadeadlineforresponse announced. (d) Atwo‑thirdsmajorityoftherespondentsmustaffirmthemotionforthevotetobe binding. (e) Themembersoftheannualconferencewillreceivenotificationoftheresultsofthe voteassoonaspossibleafterthedeadlineforvoting. G. Financial matters: 1. Revenue neutrality:Afteradoptionofafundingplanandformulaformissionshares,any motionfromthefloortoincreasespendinginanyareaofthebudgetmustincludeanequalor greatercorrespondingreductioninspendingaspartofthesamemotion. 2. Referrals to CFA:AllitemswithfinancialimplicationswillbereferredtotheCouncilon

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FinanceandAdministration(CFA)beforefinaladoption.Suchreferral,atthechair’sdiscretion, maybebeforeorafterdiscussionandrefinementbythebody. H. Resolutions: 1.ForthepurposesoftheGreatPlainsAnnualConference,aresolutionaskstheannual conferencetotakeastandonaparticularissueortodirectsomebodywithintheconference toconsideraspecificaction. 2. Submissions:AllprofessingmembersoflocalchurcheswithintheboundariesoftheGreat PlainsAnnualConference,andallclergymembersoftheGreatPlainsAnnualConference, shallhavetherighttosubmitresolutionsforconsiderationbytheannualconferencesession. 3. SubmissionDeadline:Allresolutionstotheannualconferencemustbesubmittedby April15tobeincludedintheAnnualConferenceWorkbook.Tobeincludedinthe ConferenceWorkbook,resolutionsandpetitionsmustbesubmittedbythedatespecifiedby theSessionsPlanningTeam.(Forpurposesofplanning,thiswillbeearlierthanApril15) 4. LateSubmissions:Alllateitemsforactionmaybeincludedinthepacketdistributedat registrationifapprovedbytheAnnualConferenceSessionsPlanningTeam.Theperson orgroupsubmittingthelateitemshallsupply1,800copiesprintedon8½x11”paperand punchedwiththreeholesandmailedtoalocationdesignatedbytheSecretary. Lateresolutionsshouldbeplacedinthemailnolaterthan14dayspriortothe openingofAnnualConference.Inaddition,thepersonorgroupmustsubmitan electronicfiletotheconferencesecretarypriortothebeginningoftheannualconference session. 5. Format:Resolutionsshallbesubmittedinaccordancewithformattingguidelinesestablished bytheAnnualConferenceSessionPlanningTeam. 6. EditorialRevision:TheSecretaryshallhavetherighttoreviewandreviseresolutions forpurposeofspelling,grammarandformatting.Incaseswherethereismorethanone signatoryofaresolution,onlythefirstsigner’snameshallbelisted,followedbythenumber ofadditionalsignatoriesindicatedintheconferenceworkbook.Thenamesofallsignatories willbeprovidedontheannualconferencewebsite. 7. Resolutions:WhenaresolutionisadoptedthatcallsfortheConferenceSecretaryto communicatewithlessthanfivepersonsorentities,pertinentcontactinformationshallbe providedbythemakerofthemotion.WhenaresolutionisadoptedthatcallsfortheConferenceSecretarytocommunicatewithfiveormorepersonsorentities,themakerofthemotionshallberesponsibleforthedistribution.

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Clergy Members in full connection (¶ 602.1.a) X X X X Provisional Clergy Members who have completed all of their educational requirements (¶ 602.1.b errata)

X X

Associate Clergy Members (¶ 602.1.c) X X ♦ Local Pastors who have completed Course of Study or an M.Div. degree and have served a minimum of two consecutive years (since July 1, 2013) under appointment before the election (¶602.1.d errata)

X X

Provisional Clergy Members (¶602.1.b) X Full- and Part- time Local Pastors under appointment to a pastoral charge, COS or MDiV not completed (¶ 602.1.d)

X ♦

Elders or Ordained Clergy from other denominations serving under appointment within the Annual Conference (¶346.2)

X

Lay Members: Elected Members representing congregations, Members by Virtue of Office, At-large Members as designated by districts, Youth Members (¶602.4)

X X X •

DSA/CLM according to number three of the Lay Equilization Plan

X X X

Conference Chancellor if not otherwise a voting member (¶ 602.10)

X

Ordained Clergy or Provisional Members from other Annual Conferences and other Methodist Denominations (¶346.1)

X

Member of Other Denomination without voting rights.

Visitors, Spouses of Clergy & Great Plains Conference Staff

♦ If also a member of the Conference Board of Ordained Ministry, they may vote at Clergy Session •If also a lay member of the Conference Board of Ordained Ministry and/or Committee on Investigation (¶ 602.6) rev 2/20/19

Voice and Vote Your name tag indicates your voice and vote status at plenary sessions. Please wear your name tag in a visible location during these sessions. Voice (meaning they can speak in plenary sessions) and vote (meaning they can make and amend motions and vote on motions) privileges are as follows:

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ElectionProcessforGeneralandJurisdictionalDelegatesGreatPlainsConferenceinMay29–June1,2019

Overview of Election Process

1. FormsforDelegateprofileswillbeontheconferencewebsitebyFebruary1,2019.Thosewhoare laymembersofannualconferencewhodonothaveanemailaddresswillbemailedinformation aboutsubmittingaprofile.PersonsmaycompletetheprofileandsubmititeitheronlineorbyU.S. MailbyMarch15.2. Layandclergyprofileswillbecompiledandmadeavailablewiththepre‑conferenceworkbookin earlyMay2019.ProfileswillalsobepostedontheGreatPlainsconferencewebsite.Theprofilesin thepre‑conferenceworkbookwillincludethenumberassignedtoeachperson.3. Submittingaprofileisnotrequiredforeligibilitytobeelected.4. Layandclergyvotingmemberswillbegivenanelectronicvotingdeviceaftertheyhavecheckedinat theregistrationtablesatannualconference.Eachunitwillhaveanumberassignedtoit.Voting memberswillberesponsibleforthedevicetheentiretimetheyareatConference.Ifnotreturned, delegateswillbebilled$75forthecostoftheunit.5. Conferencenamebadgeswillbecolorcodedtodistinguishwhomayvoteforthelaydelegates, andwhomayvoteforclergydelegates.Clergynoteligibletovoteforthedelegationbuteligibleto voteforthebusinessoftheannualconferencewillbegivenanelectronicdevicethatcanbeusedfor votesonotherconferencebusiness.6. Guestsandotherswithoutvoiceorvotewillhavenocolorcodingontheirnamebadge.7. TheorganizingmotionwillspecifyhowmanyalternateJurisdictionaldelegateswillbeelected.Itwill alsospecifythatwewillputonthescreenonlythosepersonswhoreceive25votesormore.8. OnThursdaymorning,May30,wewilltakethefirstlayandclergyballotsduringtheplenarysession. Laityandclergywilleachbevotingforsevenpersons.9. TherewillbeatleastonepracticevotetakenThursdaymorningtogiveinstructionsonhowtousethe votingdevices,andtobesuretheyareworking.10. Votingwillalternatebetweenlaityandclergyuntilalldelegateshavebeenelected.Wewillelect7 laityand7clergyasGeneralConferencedelegates;7laityand7clergyasJurisdictionaldelegates; and3alternatelaityandclergy.Voteswillbeinvalidifthenumbervotedforisdifferentthanthe specifiednumberasstatedintheStandingRules.11. Resultsofeachballotwillbepostedonthescreen,butonlythosepersonsreceiving25votesormore willbelisted.Ifnecessary,thenameswillbescrolledcontinuously.12. TheleaderofthedelegationforGeneralConference2020willbethefirstclergyelected.The delegationwillmeetbeforeadjournmentforapicture.

General Instructions for Laity1. Alllaypersonswhosubmitaprofilewillbeassignedanumberinalphabeticalorderbylastname.Numberswill beassignedtoallotherlaypersonswhoreceiveatleastonevoteonthefirstballot.2. Allvotingforthosealreadyassignedanumberwillbedoneelectronically.3. Laitywillhavetheoptiontowriteinnamesofpersonswhodidnotsubmitaprofile.Ifanindividualwantstowrite‑inthenameofsomeone,instructionswillbegivenforhowtoindicatethatelectronicallyandthe individualmustcompleteawrite‑inballotwithonlythenamesofthewrite‑ins.4. Thosecountingtheseballotswillcross‑matchthemwiththeelectronicvotecastbyeachindividualtoassure thattheballotwasvalidwiththecorrectnumberofvotes.Anyballotorballot+write‑inwithmoreorlessthan sevenvoteswillbeinvalid.Thewrite‑inballotwillincludespacetoindicatewherechurchmembershipisheld.5. Counterswilltallyandverifythewrite‑inballotsforlaityasquicklyaspossible.Whenthecountiscomplete,a documentwillbeprintedlistingthenumbersandnamesofalllaypersonsreceivingonevote,whether write‑inorfromthepre‑conferenceworkbook.Thenumbersforthoseinthepre‑conferenceworkbookwill notchange.Theprintedlistswillbedistributedwhenthebishopisreadytogivethereportfromthefirst ballot. 6. Followingthedistributionoftheadditionalnames,personswillvoteusingthenumberthathasbeen assignedtoalllaitywhoreceivedavote.However,write‑inballotsforlaitywillbeacceptedforeachballot.A formforwrite‑inballotswillbeavailablefromthetellersforeachballot.7. Noadditionaldocumentswillbeprintedandprovidedeveniftherearewrite‑invotesonsubsequentballots.

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General Instructions for Clergy 1. Everyeligibleclergymember(FEorFD)willbeassignedanumberandlistedononedocument.Those whohavesubmittedprofileswillbelistedfirst,inalphabeticalorder,andassignedanappropriatenumber. Remainingeligibleclergywillbelistedinalphabeticalorderandnumberedconsecutively.2. ThisinformationwillbemadeavailablewiththeClergyProfilesandalsointheconferenceworkbook.Clergy areresponsibleforprintingthelistfortheiruseatannualconference.3. Clergywillvoteforsevenpersonsbynumberonthefirstballot,usingthenumberedlistprovidedinthe workbook.Nowriteinballotswillbeallowedasallclergyareassignedanumber.4. Alistofclergywhoreceivedatleastonevotewillbeprintedfollowingthefirstballotanddistributedatthe timethebishopisreadytoreportontheresultsofthefirstballot.

GeneralConferencewillmeetinMinneapolis,Minnesota,May5‑15,2020.TheSouth‑CentralJurisdictionalConferencewillbeheldJuly15‑18,2020inHouston,Texas.

Thereisnocampaigning,speeches,buttons,flyers,etc.allowedeitherpriortoAnnualConferenceorduringAnnualConference.

2. Fast Facts

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3. Budgetary StatementGreat Plains Conference 2020 Budget and list of Conference Advances will be available after May 15, 2019 at https://www.greatplainsumc.org/conferencebudget and also included in the packets provided on site.

4. Pensions and Health Benefits Items for Action• Past Service Rate (PSR) ThepastservicerateisadefinedbenefitbaseduponyearsofservicethroughDecember31,1981. ThisistheratereceivedbythosethathavevestedyearsofserviceinthePre‑82 PensionPlan.

Theboardsetaprojectedgoalofanannualincreaseof2%orCOLAwhichisreflectedintheComprehensive FundingPlan.

2019PSRis$791.00.Anincreaseof2%($16.00)for2020wouldbringthePSRupto$807.00. AnyincreasestotheannuityPSRshallbefundedimmediatelyintheyearinwhichtheincreaseoccurs.

• Contingent Annuitant Percentage (CAP) TheCAPistherateofpensionthatsurvivingspousesshallreceivefromthePre‑82PensionPlan.

Thecurrentrateis85%fortheformerNebraskaandKansasEastconferences,andtheratefortheformerKansas Westconferenceisat100%.

Theboardsetthegoaltoreviewtheratesannuallywiththepossibilityofmovingtherateto100%sometimeinthe future.

ThecurrentfundinglevelinthePre‑82PensionPlanwillnotallowforanincreaseatthistime.

• Retirement Benefits/Funding Percentage/Use of Reserves Theconferencehasmaintainedanover‑fundedpositioninthePre‑82PensionPlanand substantialpensionreserves.Theboard’sfundinglevelforthePre‑82PensionPlanisnottobereducedbelow 120%.

Themarketchangesfor2018willdecreasethefundinginthePre‑82PensionPlan.TheBoardhasrecommended toincreasetheCRSPDefinedBenefitbillingtothechurchby1%for2020,notingthattheBoardwillstillbe coveringtheadditionalcostof6.2%withanyPre‑82Pensionfundingover120%andwithpensionreserves.

Recommendation local church funding is as follows:

2019 2020

CPP death and disability 3% 3%

CRSP defined contributions 3% 3%

CRSP defined benefit 2% 3%

Total 8% 9%

Membersserving(1/4)25%appointmentwiththelocalchurcheswillfund10%intothe membersUMPIPaccount.The2%balancerequiredwillbefundedfromthepensionreserves if needed.

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https://www.greatplainsumc.org/conferencebudget https://www.greatplainsumc.org/conferencebudget

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• Health Allowance Theboardhasrecommendedthatthehealthallowancewillcontinuetobe$15,850annually for2020andtheexpectationisthatclergywillmaintainnolessthananACABronzePlan.Emergency HealthGrantswillcontinuetoensurethatallclergycanhaveACAcoverage.

Clergyappointedtochurcheswith50employeesormoreshallbeprovidedcoveragebytheir churchinaccordancewithACAGuidelinesandarenoteligibleforthe$15,850.

• 2020 Comprehensive Funding Plan TheboardisrequiredtosubmitacomprehensivefundingplaneachyeartoWespathBenefits andInvestments.(WespathOpiniononGreatPlainsConference2020ComprehensiveBenefit FundingPlan).

ThefundingplanmeetsthestandardsforaPre‑82fundingplanasestablishedbyWespath BenefitsandInvestmentsandthefavorableopinionrequirementsforafundingplan.Note:The statementaboveandanywrittenopinionprovidedbyWespathdonotimplyany representationastotheabilityorprobabilityoftheapplicableplansponsortofulfillthe obligationsincludedinthefundingplan.

• Housing Resolution Inordertomeetfederalguidelines,anannualhousingresolutionmustbeapprovedat AnnualConferenceandprintedinthejournal.(Seeattachedresolution).

Resolution on Rental/Housing/Household Expense Allowance, in accordance with Federal Guidelines for clergy housing, the following resolution is recommended:

WHEREAS,thereligiousdenominationknownasTheUnitedMethodistChurch(theChurch),ofwhichthisConferenceisapart,hasinthepastfunctionedandcontinuestofunctionthroughministersofthegospel(withinthemeaningofInternalRevenueCodesection107)whowereoraredulyordained,commissioned,orlicensedministersoftheChurch(Clergypersons);

WHEREAS,thepracticeoftheChurchandofthisConferencewasandistoprovideactiveclergypersonswithaparsonageorarental/housingallowanceaspartoftheirgrosscompensation;

WHEREAS,pensionsorotheramountspaidtoactive,retired,terminatedanddisabledclergypersonsareconsideredde‑ferredcompensationandarepaidtoactive,retired,terminated,anddisabledClergypersonsinconsiderationofpreviousactiveservice;and

WHEREAS,theInternalRevenueServicehasrecognizedtheConference(oritspredecessors)asanappropriateorganizationtodesignatearental/housingallowanceforClergypersonswhoareorweremembersofthisConferenceandareeligibletoreceivesuchdeferredcompensation;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:

THATanamountequalto100%ofthepension,severance,ordisabilitypaymentsreceivedfromplansauthorizedundertheBookofDisciplineofTheUnitedMethodist(theDiscipline),whichincludesallsuchpaymentsfromWespathBenefitsandInvestments,duringtheperiodJanuary1,2020throughDecember31,2020byeachactive,retired,terminatedordisabledclergypersonwhoisorwasamemberoftheConference,oritspredecessors,beandherebyisdesignatedasarental/housingallowanceforeachsuchclergyperson;and

THATthepension,severanceordisabilitypaymentstowhichthisrental/housingallowancedesignationapplieswillbeanypension,severance,ordisabilitypaymentsfromplan,annuities,offundsauthorizedundertheDiscipline,includingsuchpaymentsfromWespathBenefitsandInvestmentsandfromacommercialannuitycompanythatprovidesanannuityaris‑ingfrombenefitsaccruedunderaWespathBenefitsandInvestmentsplan,annuity,orfundauthorizedundertheDiscipline,thatresultfromanyserviceaclergypersonrenderedtothisconferenceorthatanactive,aretired,aterminatedora

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disabledclergypersonofthisconferencerenderedtoanylocalchurch,annualconferenceofthechurchcontributionstooraccrueabenefitunder,suchaplan,annuity,orfundforsuchanactive,aretired,aterminatedoradisabledclergyperson’spension,severance,ordisabilityplanbenefitaspartofhisorhergrosscompensation.

Note:Therental/housingallowancethatmaybeexcludedfromaClergyperson’sgrossincomeinanyyearforfederal(and,inmostcases,state)incometaxpurposesislimitedunderInternalRevenueCodesection107(2),andregulationthereun‑der,totheleastof:(a)theamountoftherental/housingallowancedesignatedbytheClergyperson’semployerorotherappropriatebodyofthechurch(suchasthisconferenceintheforegoingresolutions)forsuchyear;(b)theamountactuallyexpendedbytheclergypersontorentorprovideahomeinsuchyear;or(c)thefairrentalvalueofthehome,includingfur‑nishingsandappurtenances(suchasagarage),plusthecostofutilitiesinsuchyear.Eachclergypersonorformerclergyper‑sonisurgedtoconsultwithhisorherowntaxadvisertodeterminewhatdeferredcompensationiseligibletobeclaimedasahousingallowanceexclusion.

REVIEW OF BENEFITS (NO ACTION REQUIRED)INFORMATIONAL ONLY

• Incapacity Leave Health Care AllowanceThosereceivingCPPmedicalleavebenefitswillreceiveahealthcareallowancewiththefollowingschedule:First24monthsthehealthcareallowancewillbe$14,232annually.Afterthefirst24monthspaymentsfortheclergypersonwillbe$300.00monthly,alongwith$300.00monthlyforthespouseanddependentsuntiltheageof26for3years.Afterthecompletionof3yearstheallowancewillbediscontinuedforthespouseandanyeligibledependents.

• CPP eligibility is as follows:Allthree‑quartertimeordainedpastors,allthree‑quartertimestudentlocalpastorsandallthree‑quartertimelocalpastorswillbecoveredbytheCPP.Coststothelocalchurchare3%ofplancompensation.Ordainedclergymembersservingone‑halftimewillreceivebenefitsthroughUMLifeOptionswiththeactualcostbeingpaidbythelocalchurch.

• Special Pension GrantsCurrentlywehavetwodependentchildrenreceivingagrant.

• Virgin Pulse Health MilesThisprogramisavailabletoactiveclergypersonsservingthree‑quartertimeormorealongwiththespouse,retiredClergypersons/spouse,andtheconferencelaystaff/spouse.Theparticipantcanearnactualdollarsbycompletingtheiractivitygoals.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)Thisprogramisavailabletoactiveclergypersonsservingthree‑quartertimeormoreforlocalchurchesortheconference,plustheirdependentsandlayconferencestaffworking30hoursormore and their dependents.

• Optional BenefitsTheconferenceprovidesgroupplansfordental,vision,accidental,criticalillnessandlifeinsurancethatactiveclergypersonsservingthree‑quartertimeormoremayparticipatealongwithconferencelaystaff.Costfortheplansare100%paidbytheparticipant.

• Short-term DisabilityShort‑termdisabilityfundingisavailabletoassistmemberchurchesintheeventafull‑timeorpart‑time(1/2timeormore)clergyorDistrictSuperintendentAssignment(DSA)isunabletoperformthedutiesoftheirappointmentduetoadocumentedmedicaldisabilitywhentheperiodoftheclergyorDSA’sabsenceexceeds30daysbutisanticipatedtobelessthan180days.Astatementfromthetreatingphysicianwiththeestimateddurationofabsenceisrequired.

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ThelocalchurchisrequiredtosubmitmonthlystatementstotheConferenceBenefitsOfficerthatdocumentsthenameoftheinterimpastor,datesserved,andamountspaid.

• Retiree Health InsuranceTheConferencepartnerswithViaBenefitsthroughWespathBenefitsandInvestments,forRetireeHealthInsurance.ViaBenefitsisanexchangethatwillassisteachretireeinselectingtheprivateMedicareplanthatbestmeetstheirmedicalneedsandbudget.NebraskaretireesthatretiredbeforeDecember31,2019,willcontinuetoreceivetheirallottedHRAiftheycontinuetoutilizeViaBenefitsfortheirprivateMedicareplan.SecuringcoverageoutsideViaBenefitswillcanceltheirHRAanditcannotbere‑instated.

WespathBenefitsandInvestmentrequiresavaluationeverytwoyearsontheRetireeHealthReimbursementprogram.

• Farmer Fund Emergency GrantsArequestforassistancefromtheFarmerFundGrantProgram(Program)ismadethroughtheBoardonanapplicationformprovidedbyWespathBenefitsandInvestments.Distressedclergymembersorformerclergymembersoftheannualconference,theirspouses,formerspouses,formersurvivingspouses;orsurvivingdependentchildren(includingadultdependentchildren)areeligibletoapplyforagrant.AnapplicationforbenefitsrequiresthemembertosubstantiatefinancialresourcesbycompletingtheincomeandexpendituresstatementandsubmittingcoverageofanACAHealthcare(Bronze)Plan.Maximumavailablethroughthegrantis$4,000.00.Theclergymembercanonlyreceiveonegrantpercalendaryear.

Writtenguidelinesandapplicationsareavailablefromthebenefitsdepartment.

• Crounse Fund GrantsCrounseFundsGrantsareforcritical/emergencyneedsforwhichtheFarmerFundisunableto provideagrant.RequestwillbesubmittedtotheDistrictSuperintendent(DS)bytheConferenceBenefitsOfficerifaFarmerFundGrantcannotbeapproved.TheDSwilltaketherequesttotheCabinetforapproval.Maximumavailablethroughthegrantis$3,000.00.

Writtenguidelinesareavailablefromthebenefitsdepartment.

• Use of ReservesUponarequestfromtheMissionAlignmentteam,theBoardcontinuestodraw5%ofpension‑designatedreservestohelppayforConferenceStaffbenefits.TheBoardestablisheda5%fundspendingofthepensionreservestobeutilizedtooffsetConferenceStaffbenefitcost,withhealthinsurancebenefitscomingfromtheshareofunrestrictedfunds.

5. Personnel Items for ActionMINIMUM COMPENSATION PROPOSAL

Eachyear,thePersonnelCommitteeiscalledupontomakearecommendationconcerningwhereminimumcompensationlevelsshouldbesetforthecomingyear.Weweighcostoflivingadjustments,inflationrates,andthewelfareoflocalchurchesandclergy.

BeginningJanuary1,2020,itisthePersonnelCommittee’srecommendationforminimumcashcompensationberaisedby2%.

Acomparisonchartisprovidedtoseethefinancialresultoftheincrease:20192020

FullTimeLocalPastor 36,87937,617AssociateMember 39,26640,051ProvisionalMember 41,65342,486FullMember 44,04044,921

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6. Church Closings and ResolutionsResolution #1 Kansas Area Foundation Inclusive ScopeRESOLUTION: KANSAS AREA FOUNDATION INCLUSIVE SCOPEFinancialImplications:NoneRATIONALE:ToallowtheFoundationtohaveaninclusivescopeofministrytocontinueservingallofthecurrentUnited

Methodistchurches,affiliateorganizations,andmembersintheconnection,andtomaketheFoundationself‑sustainingandautonomous,liketheNebraskaUnitedMethodistFoundation,toensureitsstabilityandfiduciarycommitments.

WHEREAS,theKansasAreaUnitedMethodistFoundationiscurrentlyonlyallowedtoserveUnitedMethodistchurches,affiliateorganizations,andmembers,andisnotallowedtoserveachurchoraffiliateorganizationifitdisaffiliatedfromthedenomination;and

WHEREAS,theBoardofTrusteesoftheKansasAreaUnitedMethodistFoundationseekstopositiontheFoundationtoserveallcurrentUnitedMethodistandformerlyUnitedMethodistchurches,affiliateorganizations,andmembers,helpingtocultivategenerositytochangelivesacrossourconnection;and

WHEREAS,theNebraskaUnitedMethodistFoundationhassetaprecedencetobeinclusiveforallsuchchurches,aswellastobecomeself‑sustainingandautonomousfromtheGreatPlainsConference;and

WHEREAS,thecurrentanxietywithinthedenominationiscausingfaithfulandgenerouspeopleunnecessaryconcernaboutthestabilityandfiduciarycommitmentsoftheFoundationbecauseofthelegalconnectionstotheGreatPlainsConference.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED,thattheGreatPlainsConferenceapprovesthefollowingchangestotheArticlesofIncorpora‑tionandBylawsoftheKansasAreaUnitedMethodistFoundation,sothattheFoundationisinclusiveinitsscopeofministry,aswellasorganizationallyself‑sustainingandautonomousfromtheGreatPlainsConference.IMPLEMENTEDBY:KansasAreaUnitedMethodistFoundation,inconjunctionwiththeTreasurerandDirectorofAdministra‑tiveServicesandtheConferenceChancellor(s).SUBMITTED:Rev.Dr.DustinD.Petz,ClergyPresidentandCEOoftheKansasAreaUnitedMethodistFoundation

Restated Articles of Incorporation of Kansas Area United Methodist Foundation, INC.WE,THEUNDERSIGNED,pursuanttotheprovisionsofK.S.A.,17‑6605,herebyrestatetheArticlesofIncorporationoftheKansasAreaUnitedMethodistFoundation,Inc.ThereRestatementintegratestheoriginalArticlesofIncorporationandamendmentstothoseArticlesadoptedpriortothedatehereof,andfurtheramendstheArticlesofIncorporation.ThisRe‑statementwasauthorizedbytheGreatPlainsConferenceon_______________.

ARTICLEFIRSTThenameofthiscorporationisKANSASAREAUNITEDMETHODISTFOUNDATION,INC.

ARTICLESECONDThelocationofitsregisteredofficeinthisstateis100EastFirstAvenue,intheCityofHutchinson,CountyofReno,Kansas,67504. 9440EastBoston,intheCityofWichita,CountyofSedgwick,Kansas67207.Thiscorporationshallbeitsownresidentagentatthisaddress.

ARTICLETHIRDThiscorporationisorganizedNOTFORPROFIT,andtheobjectsandpurposestobetransactedandcarriedonare:3‑1Thegeneralobjectsandpurposesofthecorporationaretooperatesolelyandexclusivelyasacharitable,religious,liter‑ary,andeducationalorganizationtohelpmaintainandfurthertheprogramsandmissionsofTheUnitedMethodistChurchministriesofchurches,affiliatedorganizations,andmembersofTheUnitedMethodistChurchinKansasandNebraska,andofthechurches,affiliatedorganizations,andmemberswhichmayhavebeenformerlyassociatedwithorpartofTheUnitedMethodistChurchlocatedinKansasandNebraska;provided,however,thatnothinghereinshallrestricttheabilityofthecorporationtoacceptgiftsthatprovidebenefitstoothernotforprofit,taxexemptorganizations.

ARTICLEFIFTH5‑1TheaffairsofthecorporationshallbeconductedbyaBoardofTrusteesconsistingoftwenty‑one(21)members.ThecompositionoftheBoardofTrusteesshallbeasfollows:TheBishopoftheKansasAreaUnitedMethodistChurchandten(10) personselectedbyeachofthetwoAnnualConferencesoftheKansasAreaUnitedMethodistChurch. The Bishop of TheGreatPlainsEpiscopalAreaofTheUnitedMethodistChurch,fifteen(15)laymembersofUnitedMethodistchurchesandchurchesformerlyassociatedwithorpartofTheUnitedMethodistChurchlocatedintheStateofKansas,andfive(5)clergymembersofTheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceofTheUnitedMethodistChurchservinginKansas.AtleastamajorityoftheTrusteesshallbelaypersons.Atleast51%oftheBoardofTrusteeswillbemembersofUnitedMethodistChurches. TheBoardofTrusteesshallhavetheauthoritytocreateanExecutiveCommittee,nottoexceednine(9)persons,fromitsown

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membership.Thecorporationshallhaveafull‑timeExecutiveDirector PresidentandCEOappointedbytheresident Bishop oftheKansasAreaUnitedMethodistChurchwithapprovalofthe Board of Trustees to serve under supervision and direc‑tion of the Board of Trustees. The ExecutiveDirector PresidentandCEOappointedbythe resident Bishop Board of Trustees maybeeitherclergyoralayperson.

ARTICLESIXTHARTICLETENTH

Thepowertoadopt,amend,andrepealtheseArticlesofIncorporationshallremainwiththeTrusteesandshallrequireatwo‑thirdsvoteoftheTrustees,providedthatallTrusteeshavereceivedatleastten(10)dayswrittennoticeoftheproposedamendments. AnyamendmentorrepealoftheseArticlesshallalsorequiretheapprovaloftheKansasEastAnnualCon‑ferenceandKansasWestAnnualConference,exceptthatAnnualConferenceapprovalisnotrequiredastoanyaddition,repeal,oramendmenttotheseArticlesofIncorporationwhichmayappearnecessaryorpropertotheTrusteestosecure,maintain,orexpandthestatueofthecorporationasacharitable,not‑for‑profit,taxexemptorganizationunderthelawsoftheStateofKansasand/ortheInternalRevenueCodeof1986(ortheprovisionsofanyfutureUnitedStatesInternalReve‑nueLaw).

BYLAWSof

KANSAS AREA UNITED METHODIST FOUNDATION, INCORPORATED(Asamendedandapproved__________)

PREAMBLETheBoardofTrusteesoftheUnitedMethodistFoundationdoesherebyadoptthefollowingAmendedandRestatedBylawsoftheKansasAreaUnitedMethodistFoundation,Inc.hereinafterreferredtoasBylaws.ItisthepurposeoftheseAmendedandRestatedBylawsoftheKansasAreaUnitedMethodistFoundation,Inc.toamendthepreviousBylawsandallamend‑mentstheretooftheKansasAreaUnitedMethodistFoundation,Inc.andtorepealallprovisionsofthepreviousBylawsandallamendmentstheretooftheKansasAreaUnitedMethodistFoundation,Inc.inconflictherewith.

ARTICLEII2. PURPOSE 2.1 NotforProfit.Thiscorporationisorganizednotforprofitandshallhavenoauthoritytoissuecapitalstock. 2.2 ObjectsandPurposes.Thiscorporationisorganizedtooperatesolelyandexclusivelyasacharitable,religious,literaryandeducationalorganizationtohelpmaintainandfurthertheprogramsandmissionsofTheUnitedMeth‑odist Church ministriesofchurches,affiliatedorganizations,andmembersofTheUnitedMethodistChurchinKansasandNebraska,andofthechurches,affiliatedorganizations,andmemberswhichmayhavebeenformerlyassociatedwithorpartofTheUnitedMethodistChurchlocatedinKansasandNebraska;provided,however,thatnothinghereinshallrestricttheabilityofthecorporationtoacceptgiftsthatprovidebenefitstoothernotforprofit,taxexemptorganizations. ARTICLEV

5. TRUSTEES 5.1 Number.TheBoardofTrusteesshallconsistoftwenty‑one(21)voting‑members. 5.2 Qualification.Trusteesshallbeselectedfrompersonsatleasttwentyone(21)yearsofagewhoacceptinprinciplethepurposesofthiscorporation,aredeemedqualifiedtomeettheresponsibilitiesofservingasaTrusteeandwhootherwisemeetthemembershiprequirementsprovidedhereinandasstatedintheArticlesofIncorporation.ATrusteeshallbedeemedqualifiedassuchwhentheyhavebeendulyelectedasaTrusteeasprovidedherein. 5.3 Trustee NominationElection.TheTrusteesaretobechosen nominatedandelectedbythecurrentTrusteesfromamonglaymembersofTheUnitedMethodistChurchinthestateofKansas UnitedMethodistchurchesandchurchesformerlyassociatedwithorpartofTheUnitedMethodistChurchlocatedinthestateofKansas,andclergymem‑bersofTheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceofTheUnitedMethodistChurchservinginKansas.AtleastamajorityoftheTrusteesshallbelaypersons.Atleast51%oftheBoardofTrusteeswillbemembersofUnitedMethodistChurches. A slate ofnomineesshallbeforwardedtoTheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceofTheUnitedMethodistChurchbytheBoardofTrusteesforelectionbytheannualconference. 5.4 ConferenceGeographicalRepresentation. ThegeographicalrepresentationfromacrossthestateofKansasThegeographicalrepresentationsoftheKansasareaofTheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceshouldbeincludedinthecon‑siderationofTrusteeswhentheymeettheothercriteriaformembership. 5.5 Ex Officio Trustee.TheBishopofTheGreatPlainsEpiscopalAreaofTheUnitedMethodistChurchshallbean ex officioTrusteeofthecorporation,inadditiontothetwenty(20)electedTrustees.EachexofficioTrusteeshallserveas

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longasheorsheholdstherespectiveoffice. 5.6 Term.AllelectedTrusteesshallservethree(3)yeartermsbeginningJanuary1.TheTrusteesshallbedividedintothree(3)equalclasses,withconsecutiveexpirationdates,inorderforonethird(1/3)oftheTrusteestobecompletingtheirtermeachyear.ForExample:Class1:7Trustees,Class2:7Trustees,Class3:6Trustees.ATrusteemaybeeligibleforre‑electionforadditionalthree(3)yearterms.TheinvitationtoservewillbedeterminedbytheBoardofTrusteesandtheirexpressionofcommitmenttocontinueserviceinachievingthemissionofthecorporation. 5.7 Duties.TheTrusteesshallgovernallaffairsofthecorporationinaccordancewithKansaslaw,theArticlesofIncorporationandthesebylaws.the Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, and its decisions in annual, regu-lar and special meetings. 5.8 Resignation.AnyTrusteeofthecorporationmayresignuponfilingawrittenresignationwiththesecretaryofthecorporation,andsuchresignationshallbecomeeffectivewhensofiledunlesssomesubsequenteffectivedateissetforthintheresignation.Anytrusteewhoisabsentfromtwo(2)consecutiveregularlyscheduledmeetingswithoutnotifyingtheFoundationofficeinadvanceofthemeetingswillbeconsideredtohaveresigned.Likewise,anyTrusteewhoisabsentwithorwithoutnoticefromfour(4)consecutiveregularlyscheduledmeetingswillbeconsideredtohaveresigned. 5.9 VacancyofPosition.IntheeventthatanyTrusteewhoiselectedbytheannualconferencechangestheirresidencetoalocationoutsideofthestateofKansas,theyshallbedeemedtohavevacatedtheirpositionasTrusteeofthecorporation,andavacancyinthepositionshallbedeclared.IntheeventthatanyTrusteechangestheirresidencetoNebraska,thensaidTrusteemaycompletetheyearofservice.andtheirpositionshallbevacatedasofthecloseofthenextannualconferencesessionoftheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceofTheUnitedMethodistChurch. 5.10 Vacancies. VacanciesontheBoardofTrusteesmaybefilledbyamajorityoftheremainingTrustees,thoughlessthanaquorum,andanyTrusteessochosentofillavacancyasprovidedherein,shallbeabletoservefromthedateoftheirelectionbytheBoardofTrusteesuntilthenextsessionoftheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch,anduntiltheirsuccessorsareelectedorconfirmed. VacanciesontheBoardofTrusteesmaybefilledbyanaffirmativevoteoftheremainingTrusteesatthenextregularorspecialmeeting.AnyTrusteessochosentofillavacancyasprovidedherein,shallbeabletoservefromthedateoftheirelectionbytheBoardofTrusteesuntiltheendofthetermofthevacantposition.Uponcompletionoftheterm,theTrusteecanbeelectedfortheirownthree(3)yearterm.

ARTICLEVIII8. COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES 8.1 ExecutiveCommittee.TheExecutiveCommitteeshallconsistofninemembersoftheBoardofTrust‑ees,andshallincludeexofficiotheChairperson,ViceChairperson,Secretary,Treasurer,andchairpersonsofthestandingcommitteesoftheBoardofTrustees,exceptasstatedhereafter.TheremainingmembersoftheExecutiveCommitteeandanyvacanciesthereofshallbeelectedatlargefromtheBoardofTrusteesbytheBoardofTrustees.IftheSecretaryand/orTreasurerofthecorporationarenotmembersoftheBoardofTrustees,thentheyshallnotqualifytoserveinsuchexofficiopositionsontheExecutiveCommittee. 8.1.1. AdInterimPowers.UnlesstheBoardofTrusteesspecificallydirectotherwise,duringtheinter‑valsbetweenmeetingsoftheBoardofTrustees,theExecutiveCommitteeshallhave,andmayexercise,allthepowersoftheBoardofTrusteesinthemanagementofthebusinessandaffairsofthecorporationinsuchmannerassuchcommitteeshalldeeminthebestinterestsofthecorporation,exceptthattheExecutiveCommitteemaynotamendorrepealtheArticlesofIncorporationorbylawsofthecorporation,orasrestrictedbypoliciesoftheBoardofTrustees.TheExecutiveCommitteeshallreportitsactionstotheBoardofTrusteesnolaterthanthenextBoardofTrustees’meeting. 8.1.2 Quorum.ThequorumfortheExecutiveCommitteeshallbeamajority,beingfiftyonepercent(51%),ofthemembersofthecommitteeforthetransactionofbusiness. 8.1.3 Meetings.TheExecutiveCommitteeshallmeetasneeded,butnotlessthantwotimeseachcalendaryear. 8.1.4 SpecialCalledMeetings.SpecialcalledmeetingsoftheExecutiveCommitteemaybecalledbytheChair‑personoruponrequestofanythreemembersoftheExecutiveCommittee,withatleastten(10)dayswrittennoticetoallmembersoftheExecutiveCommittee. 8.2 AdditionalCommitteesandOrganizations.TheBoardofTrusteesmayestablishandelectothercommittees,councilsorothergroupsanddesignatetheirspecifictasksandduties,andshalldesignatethechairpersonofsuchcommitteeorothergroups. 8.3 RulesandQuorum.Allcommittees,unlessotherwiseprovidedinthesebylawsorbydirectionoftheBoardofTrusteesfromtimetotime,shalladopttheirownrulesofprocedure.Atallmeetingsofcommittees,excepttheExecutiveCommittee,thosememberspresentshallconstituteaquorumandtheaffirmativevoteofamajorityofaquorumshallcontrolforthetransactionofbusiness. 8.4 Non‑TrusteeMembers.AdditionalmembersofanycommitteesotherthantheExecutiveCommitteemaybeelectedbytheBoardofTrustees,andsuchmembersarenotrequiredtobeaTrusteeofthecorporation.Suchnon‑Trust‑eecommitteemembersshallhavetherightofvoiceandvoteinsuchcommitteedeliberations.

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8.5 StaffSupport.ThePresidentandCEO,exofficio,shallattendallmeetingsofthecommitteesofthecorporation,andprovidestaffandadministrativesupportfortheworkofthevariouscommitteesatthedirectionofthechairpersonofeachcommittee.

ARTICLEXIII13. AMENDMENTS 13.1 Thesebylawsmaybealtered,repealedoramendedinwholeorinpartbyatwo‑thirds(2/3)voteoftheTrusteespresentandvotingatanyannual,regularorspecialmeetingoftheTrustees,providedthatallTrusteeshavereceivedatleastten(10)dayswrittennoticeoftheproposedamendments.AnyamendmentstothebylawsshallbesubjecttotheapprovaloftheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceofTheUnitedMethodistChurch,exceptasprovidedforhereafter. 13.2 TheTrusteesofthecorporationshallhaveauthorityatanytimeandfromtimetotimeatanyannual,reg‑ularorspecialmeetingtomakesuchamendmentstoorrevisionofthesebylawsifsuchamendmentorrevisionisnecessaryorpropertosecure,maintainorexpandthestatusofthecorporationasanotforprofit,tax‑exemptorganizationunderthelawsoftheStateofKansasandtheInternalRevenuelawsoftheUnitedStates.

ARTICLEXIV14. EFFECTIVE DATE14.1 Thesebylawsshallbeeffectivefromandafter___________.ADOPTEDbythemembersofthecorporationonthe_______________. _____________________________________ LenardMaxwell,Secretary KansasAreaUnitedMethodistFoundation,Inc.APPROVEDBYTHEGREATPLAINSANNUALCONFERENCEOFTHEUNITEDMETHODISTCHURCHTHIS_________________.___________________________ __________________________PresidingBishop ConferenceSecretary

RESOLUTION #2 -Kilgore Closing WHEREAS,theKilgoreUnitedMethodistChurchlocatedinKilgore,Nebraskawasfoundedin 1909andhashadalongandfaithfulhistoryofservingJesusChristanditscommunity;and

WHEREAS,thechurchconferenceoftheKilgoreUnitedMethodistChurchvotedonNovember2,2018toclosethe church; and

WHEREAS,TheRev.CindyKarges,theDistrictSuperintendentoftheGreatWestDistrict,hasrecommendedthat thechurchbeclosed;and

WHEREAS,theconsentoftheGreatWestDistrictBoardofChurchLocation,theCabinet,andBishopRubenSaenz, Jr.hasbeengranted;and WHEREAS,allproperDisciplinaryrequirementshavebeencompliedwith;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVEDbytheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch:

1. ThattheKilgoreUnitedMethodistChurchinCherryCounty,Nebraska,isherebydeclaredclosedasof June30,2019,withappreciationforitsyearsoffaithfulnessandservice.

2. ThatthemembershipoftheKilgoreUnitedMethodistChurchbetransferredasdeterminedbyeach memberpriortoclosing,andthatanymembershipsnotsodesignatedbetransferredtothe ValentineUnitedMethodistChurch.

3. Thattitletotherealproperty[andotherassets]heldbyKilgoreUnitedMethodistChurchbetransferred totheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch,andthattheBoardofTrusteesof theAnnualConferencebeherebyauthorizedanddirectedtohold,sell,lease,ordisposeofsuch assetsuponsuchtermsastheydeemadequate,andtoincuranyreasonableexpensesin connectiontherewith.

4. ThattheofficialrecordsandpapersoftheKilgoreUnitedMethodistChurchbedepositedforpermanent safekeepingwiththeCommissiononArchivesandHistory.

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RESOLUTION #3 - Closing of Trinity Community Church, A United Methodist Church WHEREAS,theTrinityCommunityChurch,aUnitedMethodistChurchlocatedinWyandotteCounty,Kansas,was foundedinApril1961andhashadalongandfaithfulhistoryofservingJesusChristanditscommunity; and

WHEREAS,thechurchconferenceoftheTrinityCommunityChurch,aUnitedMethodistChurchvotedonApril14, 2019,toclosethechurch;and WHEREAS,theRev.Dr.AnneGatobu,theDistrictSuperintendentoftheKansasCityDistrict,hasrecommendedthat thechurchbeclosed;and WHEREAS,theconsentoftheKansasCityDistrictBoardofChurchLocation,theCabinet,andBishopRubenSaenz Jr.hasbeengranted;and

WHEREAS,allproperDisciplinaryrequirementshavebeencompliedwith;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED bytheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch: 1. ThattheTrinityCommunityChurch,aUnitedMethodistChurchinWyandotteCounty,Kansas,ishereby declaredclosedasofJune30,2019,withappreciationforitsyearsoffaithfulnessandservice.

2. ThatthemembershipoftheTrinityCommunityChurch,aUnitedMethodistChurchbetransferredas determinedbyeachmemberpriortoclosing,andthatanymembershipsnotsodesignatedbetransferred totheWyandotteUnitedMethodistChurch.

3. Thattitletotherealproperty[andotherassetsandliabilities]heldbyTrinityCommunityChurch,aUnited MethodistChurchbetransferredtotheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch, andthattheBoardofTrusteesoftheAnnualConferencebeherebyauthorizedanddirectedto hold,sell,lease,ordisposeofsuchassetsuponsuchtermsastheydeemadequate,andtoincuranyreasonableexpensesinconnectiontherewith.

4. ThattheofficialrecordsandpapersoftheTrinityCommunityChurch,aUnitedMethodistChurchbedepositedforpermanentsafekeepingwiththeCommissiononArchivesandHistory.

RESOLUTION #4 - Closing of Valley View United Methodist Church WHEREAS,theValleyViewUnitedMethodistChurchlocatedinJohnsonCounty,Kansas,wasfoundedin1959and hashadalongandfaithfulhistoryofservingJesusChristanditscommunity;and WHEREAS,thechurchconferenceoftheValleyViewUnitedMethodistChurchvotedonDecember2,2018,toclose the church; and

WHEREAS,Rev.Dr.AnneGatobu,theDistrictSuperintendentoftheKansasCityDistrict,hasrecommendedthat thechurchbeclosed;and WHEREAS,theconsentoftheKansasCityDistrictBoardofChurchLocation,theCabinet,andBishopRubenSaenz Jr.hasbeengranted;and WHEREAS,allproperDisciplinaryrequirementshavebeencompliedwith;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVEDbytheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch: 1. ThattheValleyViewUnitedMethodistChurchinOverlandParkinJohnsonCounty,Kansas,ishereby declaredclosedasofApril30,2019,withappreciationforitsyearsoffaithfulnessandservice. 2. ThatthemembershipoftheValleyViewUnitedMethodistChurchbetransferredasdeterminedbyeach memberpriortoclosing,andthatanymembershipsnotsodesignatedbetransferredtotheChurchof

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TheResurrectionUnitedMethodistChurch.

3. Thattitletotherealproperty[andotherassetsandliabilities]heldbyValleyViewUnitedMethodist ChurchbetransferredtotheChurchoftheResurrectionUnitedMethodistChurch,andthattheBoard ofTrusteesoftheChurchoftheResurrectionbeherebyauthorizedanddirectedtohold,sell,lease,or disposeofsuchassetsuponsuchtermsastheydeemadequate,andtoincuranyreasonableexpensesin connectiontherewith. 4. ThattheofficialrecordsandpapersoftheValleyViewUnitedMethodistChurchbedepositedfor permanentsafekeepingwiththeCommissiononArchivesandHistory.

RESOLUTION #5 Closing of Chetopa St. Paul United Methodist Church

WHEREAS,theSt.PaulUnitedMethodistChurchlocatedinChetopa,Kansas,hashadalongandfaithfulhistoryof servingJesusChristanditscommunity;and

WHEREAS,thechurchconferenceoftheSt.PaulUnitedMethodistChurchvotedonOctober11,2018,toclosethe church; and

WHEREAS,theRev.DavidE.Watson,theDistrictSuperintendentoftheParsonsDistrict,hasrecommendedthatthechurch beclosed;and

WHEREAS,theconsentoftheParsonsDistrictBoardofChurchLocation,theCabinet,andBishopRubenSaenzJr. hasbeengranted;and WHEREAS,allproperDisciplinaryrequirementshavebeencompliedwith;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVEDbytheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch:

1. ThattheSt.PaulUnitedMethodistChurchinLabetteCounty,Kansas,isherebydeclaredclosedasof June30,2019,withappreciationforitsyearsoffaithfulnessandservice.

2. ThatthemembershipoftheSt.PaulUnitedMethodistChurchbetransferredasdeterminedbyeach memberpriortoclosing,andthatanymembershipsnotsodesignatedbetransferredtotheChetopa UnitedMethodistChurch.

3. Thattitletotherealproperty[andotherassets]heldbySt.PaulUnitedMethodistChurchbetransferred totheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch,andthattheBoardofTrusteesof theAnnualConferencebeherebyauthorizedanddirectedtohold,sell,lease,ordisposeofsuch assetsuponsuchtermsastheydeemadequate,andtoincuranyreasonableexpensesinconnection therewith.

4. ThattheofficialrecordsandpapersoftheSt.PaulUnitedMethodistChurchbedepositedforpermanent safekeepingwiththeCommissiononArchivesandHistory.

RESOLUTION #6 Closing of Ada United Methodist Church

WHEREAS,theAdaUnitedMethodistChurchlocatedinAda,Kansas,wasfoundedAugust10,1886andhas hadalongandfaithfulhistoryofservingJesusChristanditscommunity;and

WHEREAS,thechurchconferenceoftheAdaUnitedMethodistChurchvotedonMay10,2019,todiscontinue the church; and

WHEREAS,‑TheReverendDeloresJ.Williamston,theDistrictSuperintendentoftheSalinaDistrict,has recommendedthatthechurchbediscontinued;and

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WHEREAS,theconsentoftheSalinaDistrictBoardofChurchLocation,theCabinet,andBishopRubenSaenzJr.has beengranted;and WHEREAS,allproperDisciplinaryrequirementshavebeencompliedwith;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVEDbytheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch:

1. ThattheAdaUnitedMethodistChurchinOttawaCounty,Kansas,isherebydeclareddiscontinuedasof June30,2019,withappreciationforitsyearsoffaithfulnessandservice.

2. ThatthemembershipoftheAdaUnitedMethodistChurchbetransferredasdeterminedbyeachmember priortodiscontinuance,andthatanymembershipsnotsodesignatedbetransferredtotheMinneapolis UnitedMethodistChurchinMinneapolisKansas.

3. Thattitletotherealproperty[andotherassets]heldbyAdaUnitedMethodistChurchbetransferredto theGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch,andthattheBoardofTrusteesofthe AnnualConferenceisherebyauthorizedanddirectedtohold,sell,lease,ordisposeofsuchassetsupon suchtermsastheydeemadequate,andtoincuranyreasonableexpensesinconnectiontherewith.

4. ThattheofficialrecordsandpapersoftheAdaUnitedMethodistChurchbedepositedforpermanentsafe keepingwiththeCommissiononArchivesandHistory.

RESOLUTION #7 Closing of Delphos United Methodist Church

WHEREAS,theDelphosUnitedMethodistChurchlocatedinDelphos,KansaswasfoundedMarch5t,1877,andhas hadalongandfaithfulhistoryofservingJesusChristanditscommunity;and

WHEREAS,thechurchconferenceoftheDelphosUnitedMethodistChurchvotedonFebruary4th,2018to discontinuethechurch;and

WHEREAS,TheReverendDeloresWilliamston,theDistrictSuperintendentoftheSalinaDistrict,hasrecommended thatthechurchbediscontinued;and

WHEREAS,theconsentoftheSalinaDistrictBoardofChurchLocation,theCabinet,andBishopRubenSaenzJr.has beengranted;and WHEREAS,allproperDisciplinaryrequirementshavebeencompliedwith;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVEDbytheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch:

1. ThattheDelphosUnitedMethodistChurchinOttawaCounty,Kansas,isherebydeclareddiscontinuedas ofJune30,2019,withappreciationforitsyearsoffaithfulnessandservice.

2. ThatthemembershipoftheDelphosUnitedMethodistChurchbetransferredasdeterminedbyeach memberpriortodiscontinuance,andthatanymembershipsnotsodesignatedbetransferredtothe MinneapolisFirstUnitedMethodistChurch.

3. Thattitletotherealproperty[andotherassets]heldbyDelphosUnitedMethodistChurchbe transferredtotheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch,andthatthe BoardofTrusteesoftheAnnualConferenceisherebyauthorizedanddirectedtohold,sell,lease,or disposeofsuchassetsuponsuchtermsastheydeemadequate,andtoincuranyreasonableexpenses inconnectiontherewith.

4. ThattheofficialrecordsandpapersoftheDelphosUnitedMethodistChurchbedepositedforpermanent safekeepingwiththeCommissiononArchivesandHistory.

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RESOLUTION #8 - Closing of Portis United Methodist Church WHEREAS,thePortisUnitedMethodistChurchlocatedinPortis,Kansas,wasfoundedMay8,1897,andhas hadalongandfaithfulhistoryofservingJesusChristanditscommunity;and

WHEREAS,thechurchconferenceofthePortisUnitedMethodistChurchvotedonMarch24,2019todiscontinue the church; and

WHEREAS,‑TheRev.DeloresJ.Williamston,theDistrictSuperintendentoftheHaysDistrict,hasrecommended thatthechurchbediscontinued;and WHEREAS,theconsentoftheHaysDistrictBoardofChurchLocation,theCabinet,andBishopRubenSaenzJr.has beengranted;and

WHEREAS,allproperDisciplinaryrequirementshavebeencompliedwith; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED bytheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch: 1. ThatthePortisUnitedMethodistChurchinOsborneCounty,Kansas,isherebydeclared discontinuedasofJune30,2019,withappreciationforitsyearsoffaithfulnessandservice.

2. ThatthemembershipofthePortisUnitedMethodistChurchbetransferredasdeterminedbyeach memberpriortodiscontinuance,andthatanymembershipsnotsodesignatedbetransferredtothe DownsUnitedMethodistChurchinDownsKansas.

3. Thattitletotherealproperty[andotherassets]heldbyPortisUnitedMethodistChurchbetransferred totheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch,andthattheBoardofTrusteesof theAnnualConferenceisherebyauthorizedanddirectedtohold,sell,lease,ordisposeofsuchassets uponsuchtermsastheydeemadequate,andtoincuranyreasonableexpensesinconnectiontherewith. 4. ThattheofficialrecordsandpapersofthePortisUnitedMethodistChurchbedepositedforpermanent safekeepingwiththeCommissiononArchivesandHistory.

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RESOLUTION #9 Closing of Robinson United Methodist Church

WHEREAS,theRobinsonUnitedMethodistChurchlocatedinBrownCounty,Kansas,wasfoundedin1879andhas hadalongandfaithfulhistoryofservingJesusChristanditscommunity;and

WHEREAS,thechurchconferenceoftheRobinsonUnitedMethodistChurchvotedonMarch31,2019,toclosethe church; and

WHEREAS,theRev.KayScarbrough,DistrictSuperintendentoftheTopekaDistrict,hasrecommendedthat thechurchbeclosed;and

WHEREAS,theconsentoftheTopekaDistrictBoardofChurchLocation,theCabinet,andBishopRubenSaenzJr. hasbeengranted;and WHEREAS,allproperDisciplinaryrequirementshavebeencompliedwith;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVEDbytheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch:

1. ThattheRobinsonUnitedMethodistChurchinBrownCounty,Kansas,isherebydeclaredclosedasofJuly 30,2019,withappreciationforitsyearsoffaithfulnessandservice.

2. ThatthemembershipoftheRobinsonUnitedMethodistChurchbetransferredasdeterminedbyeach memberpriortoclosing,andthatanymembershipsnotsodesignatedbetransferredtothe FirstUnitedMethodistChurchofHiawatha.

3. Thattitletotherealproperty[andotherassets]heldbyRobinsonUnitedMethodistChurchbetransferred totheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch,andthatthe BoardofTrusteesoftheAnnualConferencebeherebyauthorizedanddirectedtohold,sell,lease, ordisposeofsuchassetsuponsuchtermsastheydeemadequate,andtoincuranyreasonableexpenses inconnectiontherewith. 4. ThattheofficialrecordsandpapersoftheRobinsonUnitedMethodistChurchbedepositedforpermanent safekeepingwiththeCommissiononArchivesandHistory.

RESOLUTION #10 Discontinuance of Hicks Chapel United Methodist Church

WHEREAS,HicksChapelEpiscopalMethodistChurch,commonlyknownasHicksChapelUnitedMethodistChurch, locatedinruralCowleyCounty,Kansas,intheWichitaEastDistrictoftheGreatPlainsAnnualConference oftheUnitedMethodistChurch,wasfoundedin1909andhashadalongandfaithfulhistoryofservingJesusChrist anditscommunity;and

WHEREAS,thechurchconferenceoftheHicksChapelUnitedMethodistChurchvotedonFebruary24,2019,to discontinuethechurch;and

WHEREAS,theRev.Dr.MitchReece,theDistrictSuperintendentoftheWichitaEastDistrict,hasrecommended thatthechurchbediscontinued;and

WHEREAS,theconsentoftheWichitaEastDistrictBoardofChurchLocation,theCabinet,andBishopRubenSaenz Jr.hasbeengranted;and

WHEREAS,allproperDisciplinaryrequirementshavebeencompliedwith;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVEDbytheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch:

1. ThattheHicksChapelUnitedMethodistChurchinCowleyCounty,Kansas,isherebydeclareddiscontinued asofApril28,2019,withappreciationforitsyearsoffaithfulnessandservice.

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2. ThatthemembershipoftheHicksChapelUnitedMethodistChurchbetransferredasdeterminedbyeach memberpriortodiscontinuance,andthatanymembershipsnotsodesignatedbytransferredtothe TisdaleUnitedMethodistChurchinWinfield,Kansas. 3. ThattitletotherealpropertyandotherassetsheldbyHicksChapelUnitedMethodistChurchbe transferredtotheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceoftheUnitedMethodistChurch,andthattheBoardof TrusteesoftheAnnualConferenceisherebyauthorizedanddirectedtohold,sell,leaseordispose ofsuchassetsuponsuchtermsastheydeemadequate,andtoincuranyreasonableexpensesin connectiontherewith. 4. ThattheofficialrecordsandpapersoftheHicksChapelUnitedMethodistChurchbedepositedfor permanentsafekeepingwiththeCommissiononArchivesandHistory.

RESOLUTION #11 - Renewal Leave for ClergyFinancialImplications:YES

WHEREAS,TheBookofDisciplineofTheUnitedMethodistChurchrecognizestheneedforclergytotakearespite fromthenormalexerciseofpastoralministry;and

WHEREAS,Clergyservinglocalchurchesneedtimesofrefreshmentthatoftengobeyondthedisciplinaryrequirementsfor continuingeducationandspiritualgrowth,andRenewalTimeisdesiredforclergywhoneedtimeforrest andreflectionmakingforgrowthinwaysotherthanthosedefinedbyTheBookofDiscipline(¶350);and

WHEREAS,TheBookofDisciplineprovidestheinstrumentforRenewalLeaveforBishops(¶410.2)andDistrict Superintendents(¶420)butnotspecificallyforclergyunderappointment;and

WHEREAS,RenewalTimeisnot“empty”orunstructuredtimebutfitstheguidelinesoftheearlychurchasreflectedinthe GospelofMarkwhere,afterreturningfromtheirmissionaryjourney,Jesusinvitedthedisciplesto“comeawayby yourselvestoalonelyplace,andrestawhile.”Webelievethattherenewaltimewasnotintendedtobetask oriented; and

WHEREAS,RenewalTimeisneededtoallowclergytherestfromnormaldutiesinorderthattheymayregainalostorfading perspectiveonministry;and

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED,theGreatPlainsAnnualConference(GPAC)shalladoptapolicyandproceduretoallowall clergymembersoftheconference(¶602.1,TheBookofDiscipline),whohaveservedsix(6)consecutive yearsunderfull‑timeappointment(orlessthanfull‑timeappointmentequivalentto6consecutiveyearsoffull‑ timeappointment)totakeuptothreemonths’leavefromhisorhernormalresponsibilitiesforpurposesof reflectionandself‑renewal;and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED,thatadequatefundingshallbemadebythelocalchurch/chargetopaythepastor’ssalaryduring theperiodoftimesheorheisonRenewalTime.TheGreatPlainsAnnualConferenceshallprovideanamountat leastequaltotheminimumcompensationofafullmember,associatemember,orfulltimelocalpastor, aslistedinthereportofthePersonnelCommitteeintheConferenceJournaloftheAnnualConference,toan interimpastorfortheagreeduponperiodinwhichthepastorunderappointmentisonRenewalLeave;and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED,TheDistrictSuperintendentoftheDistrictinwhichthelocalchurch/chargeislocated,shall nametheinterimpastorinconsultationwiththePastorStaffParishRelationsCommitteeofthelocalchurch/chargeinvolved.Detailedarrangementsofhousing,dates,etc.,shallbemadebytheDistrictSuperintendent,thepastor whoisonRenewalLeave,thelocalchurch/charge,andinconsultationwiththeinterimpastor.

ImplementedbyClergyExcellence,BoardofOrdainedMinistrySubmittedbyRev.LenardMaxwell

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RESOLUTION #12 - Amendment to Safe GatheringsFinancialImplications:None

RATIONALE:WecommendtheeffortsandactionsoftheGreatPlainsSafeGatheringspolicy.Weagreewholeheartedly withtheintentandwordingoftheIntroductionandPolicylines8‑25.Wedonotquestiontheneed fortraining,certificationandmonitoringofpersonsworkingwithchildrenandothervulnerablepopulations. Theintentionofthisresolutionistoincreasetheeffectivenessandefficiencyofthescreeningprocesswhile honoringandmaintainingthespiritandintentofthecurrentpolicy.Alternativetrainingandscreening procedures,aslongastheydonotcompromisetheeffectivenessofthecurrentpolicy,willallowcongregations totrainmorevolunteersinamoretimelyandcost‑effectivemanner.

WHEREAS,whileSafeGatheringstrainingiswell‑done,itisalsoaveryexpensive,cumbersome,andlengthyprocess,and

WHEREAS,itistruethatsomecongregationsdonothavetheresourcestodeveloptheirowntrainingprogram,other congregationsdo.Thecongregationsthatareabletodososhouldhavetheoptioncreatetheirownsolongas thebackgroundcheckandreferenceprovisionsareincluded,and

WHEREAS,theproposedamendmentwillallowforalocalchurchtotrainandfieldmorevolunteerstothemissionfield whilestilldoingeverythingpossibletoprotectvulnerablepopulations.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVEDthecurrentGreatPlainsSafeGatheringsPolicybeamendedasfollows: Line58:TheCertificationAuthority(insert)oftheGreatPlainsAnnualConference Line60:(insert)TheCertificationAuthorityofalocalchurchorchargeshallbetheSeniorPastor,Directorof Children’sMinistry,theAdministrativeBoardandtheTrustees. Line73:trainingandcertification,anditshall(insert)mayalsobethetrainingandcertification… Line77:SafeGatheringsCoordinator(insert)oftheconferenceorthelocalchurchorcharge Line79:TheSafeGatheringsCoordinator(insert)oftheconferenceorthelocalchurchorcharge Line90:TheSafeGatheringsCoordinator(insert)oftheconferenceorthelocalchurchorcharge Line92:TheGreatPlainsAnnualConference(insert)or the local church Line106:servewiththeGreatPlainsAnnualConference(insert)oralocalchurchorcharge.

ImplementedbytheAnnualConferenceandtheeffectedlocalchurchorcharge.SubmittedbySt.Andrew’sUnitedMethodistChurch–Omaha,Nebraska

YoumayfindtheConferenceSafeGatheringspolicyfoundatwww.greatplainsumc.org/safegatheringsbestpractices.

RESOLUTION #13 - Change to Clergy Health BenefitsFinancialImplications:None

RATIONALE:Thispolicychangewillaccomplishseveralthings: 1.Thelocalchurchwillonlypaytheactualcostofthehealthinsurancefortheirpastor.Whilethismayhavesome minoreffectonappointments,itisreallyafairnessissueforthelocalchurchandtheclergy.Apastorwhoisusing spousalinsurance,MedicareSupplement,orotherbenefitinsuranceshouldnotreceivepaymentdesignatedas healthinsurancewhen,infact,thatamountisactuallypartofthesalarysinceitisnotusedasareimbursement. 2.Fortaxpurposes,healthinsurancepaymentbecomesanAccountablePlanaccordingtotheIRSandistherefore taxdeductible.Technically,accordingtocurrentCPAguidelines,payingalumpsumtothepastorwithoutreceiptsis Non‑Accountableandshouldbeconsideredpartoftaxableincome. 3.Thischangeprovidesgreaterclarityinwhatpastoralcompensationactuallyisforaloc