Important Update On Annual Conference

March 30, 2020 

Rio Texas Conference Delegates 

After consultation with Bishop Robert Schnase, the Annual Conference Design Team, and the Uniting Table, (whose function it is to coordinate mission and ministry in the Rio Texas Conference) I have determined that it is wise to suspend registration for the 2020 Rio Texas Annual Conference. Through discussions with United Methodist leaders across the nation, the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the shelter in place orders in many local communities, the Annual Conference Design Team will continue to monitor the continuing and developing COVID-19 pandemic. We expect to make a final decision by May 1 concerning holding Annual Conference in June, 2020.  

The staff of the Rio Texas Conference are working from their homes and are using internet platforms to stay in touch with each other and our congregational leaders. We continue to be informed on the complex situation presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.  Our congregations are being creative in sustaining their members and community with The Word of God through Jesus Christ as they gather electronically for prayer, worship, Bible study and connection. The safety and well-being of our staff, our leaders, our congregants and the persons in our communities is at the forefront of our thoughts and prayers. 

Bishop Schnase and the Annual Conference Design Team have been and will continue to be in dialogue with United Methodist leaders across the nation to discern appropriate and creative ways to accomplish the work that must be done in the Clergy Session and at Annual Conference.  We have guidance from the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry and General Board of Finance and Administration on meeting the administrative and Disciplinary mandates for Annual Conference. We will make a final decision by May 1 concerning holding Annual Conference in June, 2020. Pray for our nation, our churches, our leaders and all of us as we seek to be sustained by our faith in Jesus Christ through this pandemic. 

In Christ’s service, 

Mickey T. McCandless Rio Texas Conference Secretary 

PDF in Spanish
PDF in English

A Statement Concerning the Coronavirus Outbreak

Churches all over the world and in our conference are having to consider what effect the spread of COVID-19, also called the coronavirus, will have on their congregation. The CDC has recommendations for faith-based organizations, businesses, and individuals. The World Health Organization also has recommendations specific to COVID-19. Many of these recommendations are healthy practices we can use throughout the year and every flu season. The simple habit of handwashing has radically changed the course of diseases around the world. Promoting hand washing and taking other small steps to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and the flu can help our church communities feel safer and be healthier. Staying informed will be very important in the coming weeks. 

Rio Texas Conference Office 

Unless otherwise instructed by the CDC, state health officials, or the City of San Antonio, the Rio Texas Conference office will continue to maintain our normal business hours. In response to COVID-19, the Rio Texas Conference staff is taking some steps to help promote good health. 

• Extra attention is being given to cleaning doorknobs, door handles, handrails, and other public surfaces.  

• Hand sanitizer is available throughout the office.  

• Staff exhibiting signs of illness are being asked to stay home.   

Our Churches 

We are recommending churches in our conference to continue meeting and worshipping together. If a person within one of our church communities has a confirmed case of COVID-19, we will follow the recommendation of the CDC and state health officials. The Rio Texas Conference also recommends churches consider taking steps to help promote good health. In addition to recommendations by the CDC, many churches are making small changes to their worship and gathering practices to help ease growing concerns. Below are some recommendations churches may consider implementing. 

Worship Services 

• While passing the peace and greeting one another, offer alternative greetings to your community. For example, a person could place their hand over their heart to indicate they would rather not make physical contact. 

• Work with janitorial staff for regular environmental cleaning with bleach and to keep the restrooms stocked with hand soap. 

• Ask your hospitality volunteers to make sure that there are facial tissues and hand sanitizer stocked and available for worship services. 

• Give people permission to stay at home if they are experiencing illness symptoms (i.e., cough, shortness of breath) of any kind. 

• For churches with live streaming, remind your community that it is a great way for individuals to recover from an illness at home while staying connected to the church.  

Communion 

• Limit communion servers to those who do NOT appear to have illness symptoms (i.e., cough, shortness of breath). 

• Be sure that Communion chalices, cups, trays, cup fillers, and patens (plates) are washed as thoroughly as any other dishes you might use at home (hot water, dish soap or detergent) before and very soon after each use and stored in a dry, clean cabinet. 

• If your congregation is still using individual cups, be sure to have a server who has washed his or her hands give the cup to each recipient, being careful not to touch the hands of the recipient. The server should not touch any used cups, nor should those receiving place used cups back into the trays. The use of disposable communion cups is another option that can be considered.  

• Prepare fresh elements with clean hands. People who have any communicable illness, including colds, should not prepare or serve communion. 

• Prior to the Eucharistic prayer, have Communion stewards exit the worship space to wash hands with soap and water at the nearest facility. 

• Include the “Sacrament of Purell” as a part of the preparation. Have all servers publicly use alcohol-based hand sanitizer prior to handling the elements. Allow your hands to dry naturally prior to reaching for the elements. 

• Instruct servers not to touch their face after washing their hands and using the sanitizer. 

• If Holy Communion is received by intinction (dipping the bread in the cup), be sure to have only the servers touch the loaf. (The practice of individuals breaking off the bread for themselves greatly increases the risk for contamination). 

• Instruct servers of the bread to provide pieces of bread that are large enough to be dipped into the cup without the recipient's fingers needing to touch the juice. 

• Instruct servers of the cup to tilt the cup slightly toward the recipients to enable the juice to flow toward the bread, thus eliminating a perceived need to "plunge" the bread (and perhaps fingers!) into the cup. For this season, you might ask parents to help dip their children’s bread into the cup. 

Communication 

• Take time to keep your community informed of the steps your church is taking in response to COVID-19.  

• Reach out to the groups that may use your facility but are not part of your community. Partner with them to help support community health.  

• Stay informed and keep your community informed.   

PDF in Spanish

PDF in English

Statement from Bishop Schnase concerning, “A Protocol of Reconciliation and Grace through Separation.”

January 10, 2020

Dear pastors, members, and friends of the Rio Texas Conference,

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

            A statement was released last week entitled “A Protocol of Reconciliation and Grace through Separation.”  The eight-page document represents work done by a group of United Methodists from across the world who embody diverse voices and constituencies of our church.

            The writing of this Protocol was done in collaboration with Kenneth Feinberg, PC, noted mediator known for his work with the September 11th Victim’s Compensation Fund, the Virginia Tech and Boston Marathon victims, and the BP Deepwater Horizon Disaster.  Mr. Feinberg, who is not a United Methodist, offered his professional guidance to us pro bono. 

            The Protocol was prepared to serve the United Methodist delegates who will gather this May in Minneapolis for the 2020 General Conference. While not perfect, the Protocol addresses many important concerns of United Methodists from across the global church.  The work was unanimously affirmed and signed by the sixteen participants. 

            This Protocol does not represent a final decision for a course of action for the United Methodist Church.  Rather, the General Conference will receive this recommendation and proposed legislation at their May meeting and will have the authority to adopt it, modify it, or to adopt something different. 

Key features of the Protocol include:

• The continuance of The United Methodist Church. The United Methodist Church remains The United Methodist Church.  All churches desiring to remain United Methodists will not need to do anything different or to make any further decisions.

• A gracious way of departure for a traditionalist conservative Methodist Church as a denomination, with a financial settlement to help form the new church.

• The creation of four regional conferences—Africa, U.S., Europe, Philippines—each with its own ability to adapt the Book of Discipline according to its context.

• The removal of restrictive language related to ministry with LGBTQ persons in the U.S. post-separation United Methodist Church following the May General Conference.

• Holding in abeyance any administrative or judicial processes regarding restrictions in    the Book of Discipline related to LGBTQ persons, as of January 1, 2020.

• Creation of a fund to strengthen the Black Church, ethnic ministries, and work among marginalized persons.

• No annual conference or local church is required to vote.  By default, churches and conferences remain in the continuing United Methodist Church unless they decide they wish to vote to leave.

• No one is asked to leave the United Methodist Church, and every pastor, member, and   church is invited to stay.  However, those who desire to separate from the United Methodist Church are given a graceful means to do so.  The plan provides a timeline for orderly separation.

• Wespath will offer service across the various Methodist expressions, assuring the continuity of pensions and benefits.                  

        This Protocol seeks to offer a respectful path forward that treats United Methodists from varying contexts, and with diverse life experiences and differing theological understandings, with grace and dignity. 

        Since this is a negotiated proposal, everyone will likely feel that it does not completely satisfy all their personal desired outcomes.  The denomination needs to look for the best solution to address the current long-standing impasse on LGBTQ inclusion, a solution that fosters vibrant communities of faith in as many places and forms as possible to bear witness to the grace of God.  Please reflect on the content and spirit of the proposal. Carry the future of the church with you in your prayers during these months to come.

        I invite you to read the news release, the full proposed agreement, and the Frequently Asked Questions found by the links below.   Read these materials prayerfully.  Do not rely merely on news stories in the press or opinions shared on social media. Take special note of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A Press Release 
The Signed Protocol
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

       Friends, I am proud of the way we’ve remained united in in the Spirit of Christ to fulfill God’s mission in our work together in the Rio Texas Conference.  I appreciate the civil and respectful conversations that so many of our pastors and laity are having about the future of the church they love.  I give God thanks for the love you have for our life together in Christ and for the mission field God has entrusted to us in the Rio Texas Conference.  It’s a privilege to serve as your bishop.

       This June, when pastors and laity representing all our congregations gather together for the Rio Texas Annual Conference in Corpus Christi, we will know what actions General Conference has taken and we can begin to determine the implications for our conference and our churches.

       There are no actions or decisions that need to be taken at this time, except to familiarize ourselves with the proposal, pray for one another, and stay in touch with our elected General Conference delegates from the Rio Texas Conference. The delegation will be planning information sessions for the conference, once legislation already submitted has been published and they have had time to review it.

        In the meantime, we continue in our ministries, proclaiming the good news that God has met our highest hopes and deepest needs in Jesus Christ.

      Yours in Christ,
Robert Schnase

Estimados pastores, miembros y amigos de la Conferencia Río Texas,

               Gracia y paz a Uds. en el nombre de nuestro Señor Jesucristo.

               La semana pasada se publicó una declaración titulada “A Protocol of Reconciliation and Grace through Separation.” ("Un Protocolo de Reconciliación y Gracia a Través de la Separación"). El documento de ocho páginas representa el trabajo formulado por un grupo de metodistas unidos de todo el mundo que encarnan diversas voces y grupos de nuestra iglesia.

               La redacción de este Protocolo se hizo en colaboración con Kenneth Feinberg, PC, destacado mediador reconocido por su trabajo con el Fondo de Compensación de Víctimas del 11 de septiembre, las víctimas de Virginia Tech y del Boston Marathon, y del desastre de BP Deepwater Horizon. El Sr. Feinberg, que no es un Metodista Unido, nos ofreció su orientación profesional pro bono.

               El Protocolo fue preparado para servir a los delegados metodistas unidos que se reunirán este mayo en Minneapolis en la Conferencia General 2020. Aunque no es perfecto, el Protocolo aborda muchas preocupaciones importantes de los metodistas unidos de toda la iglesia mundial. El trabajo fue unánimemente afirmado y firmado por los dieciséis participantes.

               Este Protocolo no representa una decisión final como curso de acción para la Iglesia Metodista Unida. Más bien, la Conferencia General recibirá esta recomendación y la legislación propuesta en su reunión de mayo y tendrá la autoridad de adoptarla, modificarla o adoptar algo diferente.

Las características claves del Protocolo incluyen:

• La continuación de la Iglesia Metodista Unida. La Iglesia Metodista Unida sigue siendo La Iglesia Metodista Unida. Todas las iglesias que deseen permanecer como Metodistas Unidos no necesitarán hacer nada diferente ni tomar más decisiones.
• Una forma de partida en gracia para una Iglesia Metodista conservadora tradicionalista como denominación, con un acuerdo financiero para ayudar a formar la nueva iglesia.
• La creación de cuatro conferencias regionales: África, los Estados Unidos, Europa, las Filipinas, cada una con su propia capacidad de adaptar el Libro de Disciplina de acuerdo con su contexto.
• La eliminación del lenguaje restrictivo relacionado al ministerio con personas LGBTQ en la Iglesia Metodista Unida de los Estados Unidos después de la separación siguiente a la Conferencia General de mayo.
• Retener a partir del 1 de enero de 2020 cualquier proceso administrativo o judicial con respecto a las restricciones en el Libro de Disciplina relacionadas con personas LGBTQ.
• Creación de un fondo para fortalecer a la Iglesia Negra, los ministerios étnicos y el trabajo entre las personas marginadas.
• No se requiere conferencia anual o iglesia local para votar. Por defecto, las iglesias y conferencias permanecen en la continua Iglesia Metodista Unida a menos que decidan que desean votar para separarse.
• A nadie se le pide que abandone a la Iglesia Metodista Unida, y cada pastor y a cada miembro e iglesia está invitado a quedarse. Sin embargo, aquellos que deseen separarse de la Iglesia Metodista Unida reciben medios de gracia para hacerlo. El plan proporciona una línea de tiempo para permitir una separación ordenada.
• Wespath ofrecerá sus servicios a través de las diversas expresiones metodistas, asegurando la continuidad de pensiones y beneficios.

         Este Protocolo busca el modo de ofrecer un paso respetuoso hacia más adelante que trate con gracia y dignidad a los Metodistas Unidos en sus diferentes contextos, con diversas experiencias de vida y diferentes interpretaciones teológicas.

               Como se trata de una propuesta negociada, es probable que todos sientan que no satisface completamente todos sus resultados personales deseados. La denominación debe buscar la mejor solución para abordar el estancamiento actual de largo trazo acerca la inclusión LGBTQ, para iniciar una solución que fomenta comunidades de fe vibrantes en tantos lugares y formas como sea posible y para dar testimonio de la gracia de Dios. Reflexione sobre el contenido y el espíritu de la propuesta. Eleve el futuro de la iglesia en sus oraciones durante los próximos meses.

               Los invito a leer el comunicado de prensa, el acuerdo propuesto completo y las Preguntas Frecuentes que se encuentran en los enlaces a continuación. Lea estos materiales en oración. No confíe simplemente en las noticias en la prensa u opiniones compartidas en las redes sociales. Tome nota especial de las Preguntas Frecuentes (FAQ)

Comunicado de Prensa

El protocolo Firmado

Preguntas Frecuentes (FAQ)

                Amados amigos, me orgullo de la forma en que nos hemos mantenido unidos en el Espíritu de Cristo para cumplir la misión de Dios en nuestro trabajo conjunto en la Conferencia Río Texas. Aprecio las conversaciones cordiales y respetuosas que muchos de nuestros pastores y laicos están llevando a cabo sobre el futuro de la iglesia que todos aman. Le doy gracias a Dios por el amor que tienen por nuestra vida unida en Cristo y por el campo misionero con el que Dios nos ha confiado en la Conferencia Río Texas. Es para mí un privilegio servirles como su obispo.

               Este junio, cuando los pastores y los laicos que representan a todas nuestras congregaciones se reúnan para la Conferencia Anual Río Texas en Corpus Christi, sabremos qué acciones la Conferencia General ha tomado y podremos comenzar a determinar las implicaciones para nuestra conferencia y nuestras iglesias.

               No hay acciones o decisiones que se deban tomar en este momento, excepto el familiarizarnos con la propuesta, orar unos por los otros y mantenernos en contacto con nuestros delegados electos a la Conferencia General de la Conferencia Río Texas. La delegación planificará sesiones de información para la conferencia, una vez ya que la legislación sea presentada se haya sido publicada y que todos hayan tenido tiempo de repasarla.

               Mientras tanto, continuamos en nuestros ministerios, proclamando las buenas noticias que Dios ha cumplido nuestras más altas esperanzas y necesidades más profundas en Jesucristo.

               Aténtamente en Cristo,

             Robert Schnase

Important Announcement released by the Council of Bishops Office

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

United Methodist Traditionalists, Centrists, Progressives, & Bishops sign agreement aimed at separation

January 3, 2020

(Washington, D.C.): A diverse group of representatives from United Methodist advocacy groups with contrasting views and bishops from around the world has collaborated on a proposed agreement for the separation of The United Methodist Church (UMC) that has the unanimous support of all the parties involved.

The agreement, the Protocol of Reconciliation & Grace Through Separation, was achieved on December 17, 2019 and announced today.

The action comes amid heightened tensions in the church over conflicting views related to human sexuality after the 2019 Special Session of the General Conference failed to resolve differences among church members.

Legislation to implement the Protocol statement – an eight-page document detailing the terms of a split of the 13+ million-member denomination – is expected to come before the United Methodist General Conference for a vote at their legislative meeting in Minneapolis, Minn. in May 2020.

The 16-member group came together as an outgrowth of a consultation initiated by bishops from Central Conferences located outside the United States.  The parties sought assistance from prominent attorney Kenneth Feinberg, who specializes in mediation and alternative dispute resolution. Feinberg, who served as Special Master of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund and administrator of the BP Deepwater Horizon Disaster Victim Compensation Fund along with a number of other complex matters, agreed to provide his services pro bono.

Meeting over several months, the unofficial group reached an agreement by signatories associated with all of the constituencies within the UMC for a mutually supported pathway for separation, bridging differences among other plans to be considered by the General Conference.  “The undersigned propose restructuring The United Methodist Church by separation as the best means to resolve our differences, allowing each part of the Church to remain true to its theological understanding, while recognizing the dignity, equality, integrity, and respect of every person,” says the protocol statement.

The document’s signers include representatives from Europe, Africa, the Philippines, and the United States, and include persons representing UMCNext; Mainstream UMC; Uniting Methodists; The Confessing Movement; Good News; The Institute on Religion & Democracy; the Wesleyan Covenant Association; Affirmation; Methodist Federation for Social Action; Reconciling Ministries Network; and the United Methodist Queer Clergy Caucus; as well as bishops from the United States and across the world.  The representatives have pledged to work together to support the proposal and develop legislation to implement it.

The Protocol anticipates the formation of a new traditionalist Methodist denomination. Once formed, the new church would receive $25 million over the next four years and give up further claim to the UMC’s assets. An additional $2 million would be allocated for potential additional new Methodist denominations which may emerge from the UMC. Acknowledging the historical role of the Methodist movement in systematic racial violence, exploitation and discrimination, the Protocol would allocate $39 million to ensure there is no disruption in supporting ministries for communities historically marginalized by racism.

Under the protocol, conferences and local congregations could vote to separate from The United Methodist Church to affiliate with new Methodist denominations created under the agreement within a certain time frame.  Churches wishing to stay within the UMC would not be required to conduct a vote. Provisions exist for entities that choose to separate to retain their assets and liabilities. All current clergy and lay employees would keep their pensions regardless of the Methodist denomination with which they affiliate.

Under the Protocol, all administrative or judicial processes addressing restrictions in the United Methodist Book of Discipline related to self-avowed practicing homosexuals or same-sex weddings as well as actions to close churches would be held in abeyance until the separation is completed.  The protocol also references a plan which calls for a special general conference of the post-separation United Methodist Church. The purpose of the Special Session would be to create regional conferences, remove the current prohibitions against LGBTQ persons, and to repeal the Traditional Plan.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Bishop John Yambasu (Sierra Leone) stated, “All of us are servants of the church and realize that we are not the primary decision makers on these matters.  Instead, we humbly offer to the delegates of the 2020 General Conference the work which we have accomplished in the hopes that it will help heal the harms and conflicts within the body of Christ and free us to be more effective witnesses to God’s Kingdom.”

The signatories to the Protocol have provided a FAQ document  to provide additional information about the agreement. Comments and questions may be directed to the signatories at mediationprotocol@outlook.com.

A live stream event will take place on Monday, January 13th to provide further clarity and explanations of the plan by members of the Mediation Team.

This statement is being released by the Council of Bishops Office on behalf of the Mediation Team members.

###

Members of the Mediation Team

• Bishop Christian Alsted (bishop@umc-ne.org), Nordic-Baltic Episcopal Area

• Rev. Thomas Berlin (tberlin@florisumc.org), representing UMCNext, Mainstream UMC, Uniting Methodists

• Bishop Thomas J. Bickerton (bishop@nyac.com), New York Episcopal Area

• Rev. Keith Boyette (president@wesleyancovenant.org), representing The Confessing Movement, Good News, IRD/UM Action, and the Wesleyan Covenant Association

• Bishop Kenneth H. Carter (bishop@flumc.org), Florida Episcopal Area

• Rev. Junius Dotson (jdotson@umcdiscipleship.org), representing UMCNext, Mainstream UMC, United Methodists

• Bishop LaTrelle Easterling (bishopeasterling@gmail.com), Washington Episcopal Area

• Rev. Egmedio “Jun” Equila, Jr. (jun@brmc.org.sg), Philippines Central Conference

• Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey (bishop@la-umc.org), Louisiana Episcopal Area

• Bishop Rodolfo Rudy Juan (bishoprudyjuan@gmail.com), Davao Episcopal Area, Philippines

• Janet Lawrence (jan@rmnetwork.org), representing Affirmation, Methodist Federation for Social Action, and Reconciling Ministries Network

• Rev. David Meredith (dmeredith@cliftonumc.com), representing Affirmation, Methodist Federation for Social Action, and Reconciling Ministries Network, member of UM Queer Clergy Caucus

• Patricia Miller (pmiller1224@gmail.com), representing The Confessing Movement, Good News, IRD/UM Action, and the Wesleyan Covenant Association

• Dr. Randall Miller (randall4015@hotmail.com), representing Affirmation, Methodist Federation for Social Action, and Reconciling Ministries Network

• Bishop Gregory Vaughn Palmer (wocbishop@woc.org), Ohio West Episcopal Area

• Bishop John K. Yambasu (bishopyambasu@gmail.com), Sierra Leone Episcopal Area

For questions or comments, please contact: mediationprotocol@outlook.com.

###

Media Contact: Rev. Dr. Maidstone Mulenga

Director of Communications – Council of Bishops

The United Methodist Church

mmulenga@umc-cob.org

202-748-5172

www.unitedmethodistbishops.org

APPLY NOW: Transformational Communities of Praxis program seeking 4 Teams for 2020

Through continued funding support from Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc., The Mission Field Ministries – Mission, Service, & Justice Office and the Transforming Communities Vision Team is requesting applications from church and community resident teams for the Transformational Communities of Praxis [TCOP] 2020 program.

Applications are now being received for the 4th Praxis class. The program is looking for church and community resident teams to participate in this program of learning processes in Asset-Based Community Development [ABCD]. Class size is limited to four teams.

Over a one-year period, participants will gain training, knowledge, and application of asset-based community development ABCD process and methods, facilitation techniques, action planning and application, identifying underlying contradictions and challenges within communities, and the understanding of Missio Dei – the mission or sending of God.  

Learning Session content is based on the biblical basis of SHALOM [Jeremiah 29:7] and the United Methodist Church’s Communities of SHALOM framework that seeks to apply long-term holistic and sustainable change approaches to community development.  

The Transformational Communities of Praxis program is designed for a 5 – person church and community resident ministry team to begin the process or go deeper in the application of community development processes with the end goal in mind of effecting measurable transformation within a given community. It is hoped that through this program, models of ministries applying community development principles and processes will emerge to serve as reference points and even teaching centers of spiritual transformation within the church and community.

The Ministry Team application deadline is January 8, 2020.

Click here to download PROGRAM INFORMATION

Click here to download APPLICATION FORM

For more information or questions, contact the Mission Field Ministries – Mission, Service, & Justice Office at 210.408.4514 or avega@riotexas.org / nicolea@riotexas.org  Teams accepted into the program will receive notice by January 17, 2020.

Learning the Enneagram with Rev. Georjean Blanton

All are welcome to attend one of the three Enneagram workshops offered by Rev. Georjean Blanton at Saint John's UMC in Austin. Georjean is a retired elder with the North Texas Conference and has studied with Suzanne Stabile and serves as a spiritual director and Enneagram coach.

Learning Your Number: Enneagram 101                                            

Saturday, October 12, 8:30-4:30    

This one-day class provides a primer to introduce this ancient tool for understanding individual differences and spiritual growth, and for promoting compassion. It will include an evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of the types, as well as the interpersonal challenges of each number. This workshop is for those who want to discover their number, are still unsure of their number, want to hear more about their stress and security numbers, or just want a review. It can be a day to simply gather with those who want to learn more about the Enneagram.

Register for Learning Your Number here.

Praying Your Number: Enneagram and Spiritual Practices 

Saturday, November 9, 9:00-3:00

Our ways of praying are as varied as our Enneagram numbers, and each number finds some practices easy and some challenging. This workshop will review each of the stances as well as explore the history of spiritual practice. Georjean Blanton will use her experiences as a spiritual director for 14 years along with more than a decade of work with the Enneagram to provide practical resources for starting and sustaining a practice of regular, disciplined prayer that benefits each Enneagram personality. As we seek to find answers to the challenges that we face every day in our world and in our church, and as we try to reflect Christ in our conversations with others, there is no better preparation than maintaining an active prayer practice.

Register for Praying Your Number by contacting Georjean (see below).

Living Your Number: Enneagram Wings and Stress & Security

Saturday, January 25, 9:00-3:00  

One of the aspects of the Enneagram that makes it different from other personality and work styles profiles is that it is not static. It shows us how we are influenced by the numbers on either side of our number and where we get energy when we are stressed or feeling secure. Enneagram master Suzanne Stabile says that "without the number we go to in stress we cannot take care of ourselves, and without the number we go to in security we cannot experience holistic healing and spiritual growth." At this workshop, Georjean Blanton will lead a deeper dive into the Enneagram, looking at wings and number one accesses in stress and security. Although there will be a quick review of the numbers, this workshop is for those who have some basic understanding of the Enneagram and who know their number.

Register for Living Your Number by contacting Georjean (see below).

The fee for each class is $60, which includes materials, lunch, and snacks. Scholarships are available by contacting Georjean.

Location: Saint John’s United Methodist Church / 2140 Allandale Road / Austin, TX 78756

Register for the November and January classes by contacting Georjean:

            Georjean Blanton
           PathWays: A Ministry of Sacred Journeys
           1716 Kimmerling Ln.
           Austin, TX 78758  

            512-663-9876

            gblantonpathways@gmail.com

"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us."

Interested in church planting?

We are excited that Rev. Karen Horan, Director of Creating/Vitializing Congregations and Developing Leaders will be teaching a class this fall on New Church Development (CM255A Special Topics: New Church Development). Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is allowing ANY Pastor of ANY Denomination to come audit the class. The flyer below contains the details for the class.

Download the application HERE. Once completed, submit the application HERE.

Deadline is August 15th, but we hope to get that extended.

Did your church earn a Safe Gatherings window cling?

Every year, Safe Gatherings recognizes their top performing churches. In 2019, Safe Gatherings recognized 87 Rio Texas Congregations for their excellent work in keeping children, youth, and vulnerable adults safe. These congregations (listed below) have 3.5% or more of their average weekly worship attendance approved by safe gatherings, with a minimum of 3 people approved for even the smallest churches. Churches recognized by Safe Gatherings receive window clings for their community to share their commitment to keeping children, youth, and vulnerable adults safe. Please join me in celebrating these churches for their excellent work!

Alamo Heights United Methodist Church-San Antonio

Art United Methodist Church-Art

Asbury United Methodist Church-Corpus Christi

Austin New Church-Austin

Bandera United Methodist Church-Bandera

Barksdale United Methodist Church-Barksdale

Bee Creek United Methodist Church-Spicewood

Bend United Methodist Church-Bend

Berkeley United Methodist Church-Austin

Bethany UMC of Austin-Austin

Blanco United Methodist Church-Blanco

Bracken United Methodist Church-San Antonio

Buda United Methodist Church-Buda

Bulverde United Methodist Church-San Antonio

Canyon Lake United Methodist Church-Canyon Lake

Cedar Creek United Methodist Church-Cedar Creek

Cedar Park First UMC-Cedar Park

Center Point United Methodist Church-Center Point

Chapel Hill UMC of San Antonio-San Antonio

Christ Fellowship UMC-San Antonio

Christ UMC of Stockdale-Stockdale

Coker United Methodist Church-San Antonio

Colonial Hills United Methodist Church-San Antonio

Covenant United Methodist Church-Austin

Crestview United Methodist Church-Austin

Cross Tracks UMC of Liberty Hill-Liberty Hill

Cuero First United Methodist Church-Cuero

Divine Grace United Methodist Church-San Antonio

Dripping Springs UMC-Dripping Springs

Eagle Pass United Methodist Church-Eagle Pass

Edinburg First United Methodist Church-Edinburg

El Buen Pastor UMC-Edinburg

El Divine Redentor  UMC-McAllen

El Mesias UMC of Mission-Mission

Ernest T Dixon UMC-San Antonio

First UMC Marble Falls-Marble Falls

First United Methodist Church of Alice-Alice

First United Methodist Church of Austin-Austin

First UMC of Bastrop-Bastrop

First UMC of Bertram-Bertram

First UMC of Boerne-Boerne

First UMC of Brackettville-Brackettville

First United Methodist Church of Brady-Brady

First UMC of Bronte-Bronte

First UMC of Brownsville-Brownsville

First UMC of Burnet-Burnet

First UMC of Carrizo Springs-Carrizo Springs

First UMC of Corpus Christi-Corpus Christi

First UMC of Del Rio-Del Rio

First UMC of Devine-Devine

First United Methodist Church of Edna-Edna

First UMC of Eldorado-Eldorado

First United Methodist Church of Elgin-Elgin

First United Methodist Church of Elsa-Elsa

First UMC of Falfurrias-Falfurrias

First UMC of Ganado-Ganado

First UMC of George West-George West

First UMC of Goldthwaite-Goldthwaite

First United Methodist Church of Goliad-Goliad

First UMC of Gonzales-Gonzales

First UMC of Hallettsville-Hallettsville

First UMC of Harlingen-Harlingen

First UMC of Hondo-Hondo

First UMC of Johnson City-Johnson City

First UMC of Junction-Junction

First UMC of Kerrville-Kerrville

First UMC of Kingsville-Kingsville

First UMC of Lampasas-Lampasas

First UMC of Mason-Mason

First UMC of McAllen-McAllen

First UMC of Menard-Menard

First UMC of Mertzon-Mertzon

First UMC of Mission-Mission

First UMC of New Braunfels-New Braunfels

First UMC of Pflugerville-Pflugerville

First UMC of Portland-Portland

First UMC of Raymondville-Raymondville

First UMC of Rio Grande City-Rio Grande City

First UMC of Robert Lee-Robert Lee

First UMC of  Rockport-Rockport

First UMC of San Angelo-San Angelo

First UMC of San Marcos-San Marcos

First UMC of Seadrift-Seadrift

First UMC of Seguin-Seguin

First United Methodist Church of Sinton-Sinton

First UMC of Smithville-Smithville

First UMC of Sonora-Sonora

First UMC of Sterling City-Sterling City

First UMC of Three Rivers-Three Rivers

First UMC of Victoria-Victoria

First UMC of Weimar-Weimar

Flatonia United Methodist Church-Flatonia

Floresville United Methodist Church-Floresville

Fredericksburg UMC-Fredericksburg

Freer United Methodist Church-Freer

Gaddis Memorial UMC-Comfort

Grace United Methodist Church-Corpus Christi

Gruene United Methodist Church-New Braunfels

Helotes Hills United Methodist Church-Helotes

Hunt United Methodist Church-Hunt

Ingleside United Methodist Church-Ingleside

Jacob's Chapel UMC-San Antonio

Jefferson United Methodist Church-San Antonio

Jourdanton United Methodist Church-Jourdanton

Karnes City United Methodist Church-Karnes City

Kelsey Memorial UMC-Corpus Christi

Kempner United Methodist Church-Kempner

Kyle United Methodist Church-Kyle

La Feria First United Methodist Church-La Feria

La Grange First UMC-La Grange

La Santisima Trinidad UMC-Weslaco

La Trinidad UMC of San Antonio-San Antonio

La Trinidad UMC of Seguin-Seguin

La Vernia United Methodist Church-La Vernia

Lakehills United Methodist Church-Lakehills

Laurel Heights UMC-San Antonio

Leakey United Methodist Church-Leakey

Leander United Methodist Church-Leander

Life in the City UMC-Austin

Lockhart First United Methodist Church-Lockhart

Lolita United Methodist Church-Lolita

Lometa United Methodist Church-Lometa

Luling First United Methodist Church-Luling

Lutie Watkins Memorial UMC-Llano

Lyford United Methodist Church-Lyford

Lytle United Methodist Church-Lytle

Manchaca United Methodist Church-Manchaca

Manor United Methodist  Church-Manor

Medina United Methodist Church-Medina

Medina Valley UMC-Castroville

Memorial United Methodist Church-Austin

Miles United Methodist Church-Miles

Monthalia United Methodist Church-Cost

New Fountain United Methodist Church-Hondo

North Shore United Methodist Church-Canyon Lake

Northwest Hills UMC of Austin-Austin

Northwest Hills UMC of San Antonio-San Antonio

Oak Hill United Methodist Church-Austin

Oak Island United Methodist Church-San Antonio

Oak Meadow United Methodist Church-San Antonio

Odem First United Methodist Church-Odem

Oxford United Methodist Church-San Antonio

Parker Lane United Methodist Church-Austin

Pearsall United Methodist Church-Pearsall

Pleasanton United Methodist Church-Pleasanton

Point Comfort UMC-Point Comfort

Resurrection United Methodist Church-San Antonio

Rolling Hills Community Church-Lago Vista

Sabinal United Methodist Church-Sabinal

Saint John's UMC of Austin-Austin

Saint Paul UMC of Corpus Christi-Corpus Christi

San Pablo UMC of Alamo-Alamo

San Saba First UMC-San Saba

Schertz United Methodist Church-Schertz

Servant United Methodist Church-Austin

Sierra Vista United Methodist Church-San Angelo

Simpson United Methodist Church-Austin

Somerset United Methodist Church-Somerset

Spring Creek United Methodist Church-Fair Oaks Ranch

St. Luke UMC of Austin-Austin

St. Mark UMC of Austin-Austin

St. Mark UMC of McAllen-McAllen

St. Andrew's UMC of San Antonio-San Antonio

St. John's UMC of Corpus Christi-Corpus Christi

St. Luke UMC of San Angelo-San Angelo

St. Luke's UMC of Corpus Christi-Corpus Christi

St. Matthew's UMC of San Antonio-San Antonio

St. Paul UMC of San Antonio-San Antonio

St. Paul's UMC of Kerrville-Kerrville

St. Peter's by the Sea UMC-Corpus Christi

St. Peter's UMC of Austin-Austin

Staples United Methodist Church-Staples

Tarrytown United Methodist Church-Austin

The Journey United Methodist Church-Buda

Travis Park United Methodist Church-San Antonio

Trinity Church of Austin-Austin

Trinity UMC of San Antonio-San Antonio

Universal City United Methodist Church-Universal City

University UMC of Austin-Austin

University UMC of San Antonio-San Antonio

Utopia United Methodist Church-Utopia

Uvalde First United Methodist Church-Uvalde

Wesley UMC of Corpus Christi-Corpus Christi

Westlake United Methodist Church-Austin

Westlawn United Methodist Church-San Antonio

Wimberley United Methodist Church-Wimberley

Windcrest United Methodist Church-San Antonio

United Methodist Bishops of Texas Call for Non-Partisan Solutions to Unfolding Humanitarian Crisis Along U.S. Southern Border

 July 15, 2019 

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, 

We greet you in the name of our Lord. Together, we have watched with anguish the unfolding immigration crisis taking place along our southern border. Across our state, United Methodist churches are reaching out with compassion and aid to those who are suffering. We also count border patrol officers and those who work with agencies serving asylum seekers as members of our churches, and we know they are doing their best to respond to an overwhelming situation.  

Those seeking to enter the United States are children of God –- people for whom Christ died. We call upon government officials, regardless of political party, to seek solutions that reflect caring and compassion. Surely, in the midst of this unfolding humanitarian crisis, it is time to lay aside partisan politics and seek solutions of love, justice and mercy, which best reflect our fundamental values as Christians and Americans. As we search for a common response, may we rise above fear and divisiveness, remembering the guidance of Holy Scripture: “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7). 

As Bishops of The United Methodist Church in Texas, we call on the people of The United Methodist Church of Texas as well as all people of goodwill to pray for and work toward:    

• Ending cruel policies that separate families;

• Ensuring compassionate care for the health and welfare of children;

• Providing safe and humane care for refugees and asylum seekers fleeing violence in their native countries; 

• A common solution that respects, cares for and offers tangible assistance to those who are hurting and homeless; and

• Working with officials in other countries to address root causes of violence and poverty, which threaten the health and safety of their citizens and force our sisters and brothers to flee their countries of origin.

We ask all who follow Christ as Lord to remember that our Savior was himself a homeless refugee fleeing violence. Jesus taught us, “When you have done it for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you have done it for me.” (Matthew 25:40)  

May the Peace of Christ be with you and with the children and families who are suffering, 

The United Methodist Bishops of Texas  

W. Earl Bledsoe, Northwest Texas & New Mexico Episcopal Areas

Scott Jones, Houston Episcopal Area

J. Michael Lowry, Fort Worth Episcopal Area

Michael McKee, Dallas Episcopal Area

Robert Schnase, San Antonio Episcopal Area

Robert E. Hayes, Jr., Retired

Janice Riggle Huie, Retired

Joel N. Martinez, Retired

John W. Russell, Retired

Ann Sherer-Simpson, Retired

E. Dan Solomon, Retired

D. Max Whitfield, Retired

Joe A. Wilson, Retired

Pedido de los Obispos Metodistas Unidos de Texas de Soluciones No Partidistas para Desplegar La Crisis Humanitaria a lo Largo de la Frontera Sur de los EE. UU.

 15 de julio de 2019 

Queridas hermanas y hermanos en Cristo,

Los saludamos en el nombre de nuestro Señor. Todos nosotros hemos observado con angustia la crisis migratoria que se desarrolla a lo largo de nuestra frontera sur. En todo nuestro estado, las iglesias metodistas unidas están alcanzando con compasión y ayuda a los que sufren. También hay miembros de nuestras iglesias que son oficiales de la patrulla fronteriza y que trabajan con agencias que sirven a solicitantes de asilo y sabemos que ellos están haciendo todo lo posible por responder a una situación abrumadora.

Aquellos que intentan ingresar a los Estados Unidos son hijos de Dios y personas por quienes Cristo murió. Hacemos un llamado a los funcionarios del gobierno, independientemente de cualquier partido político, a buscar soluciones que reflejen cuidado y compasión. Por seguro, en medio de esta crisis humanitaria en desarrollo, es hora de dejar a un lado la política partidista y buscar soluciones de caridad, justicia y misericordia que mejor reflejen nuestros valores fundamentales como cristianos y estadounidenses. Mientras buscamos una respuesta común, que podamos elevarnos por encima del temor y la división, recordando la guía de las Sagradas Escrituras: "Porque no nos ha dado Dios espíritu de cobardía, sino de poder, de amor y de dominio propio." (2 Timoteo 1, 7).

Como Obispos de la Iglesia Metodista Unida en Texas, llamamos al pueblo de la Iglesia Metodista Unida de Texas, así como a todas las personas de buena voluntad a orar y obrar para:

• Poner un fin a las políticas crueles que separan a las familias;

• Asegurar un cuidado compasivo que provee salud y el bienestar de los niños;

• Proporcionar atención segura y humanitaria a los refugiados y solicitantes de asilo que huyen de la violencia en sus países de origen;

• Trabajar hacia una solución común que respete, cuide y ofrezca asistencia tangible a aquellos que sufren y están desalojados;

• Trabajar con funcionarios en otros países para abordar las causas profundas de la violencia y la pobreza que amenazan la salud y la seguridad de sus ciudadanos y que han obligado a nuestras hermanas y hermanos a huir de sus países de origen.

Pedimos a todos los que siguen a Cristo como Señor que recuerden que nuestro Salvador mismo fue un refugiado sin hogar que huía de la violencia. Jesús nos enseñó: “Así como lo hiciste a uno de estos mis hermanos más pequeños, a mí lo hiciste.” (Mateo 25:40)

Que la paz de Cristo sea con ustedes y con los niños y las familias que sufren,

Los Obispos Metodistas Unidos de Texas

W. Earl Bledsoe, Area Episcopal de Northwest Texas y Nuevo Mexico

Scott Jones, Area Episcopal de Houston

J. Michael Lowry, Area Episcopal de Fort Worth

Michael McKee, Area Episcopal de Dallas

Robert Schnase, Area Episcopal de San Antonio

Robert E. Hayes, Jr., Jubilado

Janice Riggle Huie, Jubilado

Joel N. Martinez, Jubilado

John W. Russell, Jubilado

Ann Sherer-Simpson, Jubilado

E. Dan Solomon, Jubilado

D. Max Whitfield, Jubilado

Joe A. Wilson, Jubilado

Delegates Elected to 2020 General and Jurisdictional Conferences

Clergy                                                                                      

General Conference

Laura Merrill                                                                            

James Amerson                                                                        

Raquel Feagins                                                                         

Taylor Fuerst                                                                           

Jurisdictional Conference

Paul Escamilla                                                                          

Abigail Herrera                                                                         

Wilson Pruitt                                                                           

Amelia Beasley                                                                        

Alternate

Russell Miller                                                                           

Liliana Padilla                                                                           

Michael Mumme                                                                     

Thomas Deviney

Laity  

General Conference

Jay Brim

Rachel Wright

Charles McGarity

Ralph Thompson

Jurisdictional Conference

Carol Loeb

Cynthia Johnson

Kercida McClain

Iris Chavez

Alternate Delegates

Priscilla Patterson

Aislinn Deviney

Patricia Stewart

Abby Gutierrez

Thank you from UMW Rio Texas President Grace Perez

I wish to express my sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the “Call to Action” organized by United Methodist Women last week at Annual Conference. Many items were received, including cash and gift cards. We appreciate your efforts to help make the lives of those families traveling long distances a little bit better. 

Items were turned over to Michael Smith, Holding Institute, Laredo, and Susan Hellums from El Valle District who will take them to the Good Neighbor Settlement House in Brownsville. 

If at any time you would like to send other items such as socks, underwear, t-shirts, bras, or other clothing directly to Holding Institute or Good Neighbor Settlement House, please feel free to do so. 

Once again, many thanks. May God continue to bless each and every one of you as we continue to serve in this important ministry.

Grace M. Perez 
President, Rio Texas Conference UMW 

UMW Call to Action at Annual Conference 2019: Donate Items for Migrants

The Good Neighbor Settlement House is a non-profit multi-service agency in Brownsville Texas serving needy men, women and children by providing the basic necessities of life such as food, clothing, showers and hot meals. Today, they offer respite to migrant asylee seekers daily.

Members of the Rio Texas Conference United Methodist Women are collecting tote bags filled with hygiene items for Holding Institute in Laredo and Good Neighbor Settlement House in Brownsville. These two centers are National Mission Institutions and are trying to respond to the needs of hundreds of migrants arriving daily.

Everyone is invited to participate in this project. Please bring your bags to the Mission Breakfast on Friday morning or the UMW Luncheon on Friday at noon. UMW will accept donations at their display table in the exhibit hall.

If you are not attending Annual Conference, you may send your bags with your clergy or lay delegates.

These are the most-needed items: 

·       Shampoo

·       Wash cloths

·       Bath soap/body wash

·       Lotion

·       Toothpaste/toothbrushes

·       Chapstick

·       Deodorant (women and men)

·       Hairbrush

·       Band aids

·       Disposable razors

·       Wet wipes

·       Feminine pads

·       Kleenex  

·       Tote bags

·       Non-perishable snacks

Travel sizes are also acceptable.

Gift cards to Walmart and Target are also accepted.

Please contact Rio Texas Conference President Grace Perez with any questions.

Located in downtown Laredo, Texas, Holding Institute is in covenant relationship with the United Methodist Women and in collaboration with other community partners, we are responding to the needs of women, children, youth, and families. Holding Institute hosts 40 to 60 migrant asylum seekers weekly. Lately, upwards of 100 persons have been sleeping at Holding nightly.

Light on the Hill @ Mount Wesley is Mount Wesley Re-Imagined

The new programming dream for Mount Wesley Conference Center, Light on The Hill @ Mount Wesley (LOTH) is taking shape! LOTH is infusing new life and ministries into the Kerrville campus. Families & Literacy was among the first ministry partners to offer services at LOTH. The first graduating GED and ESL classes received their certificates in early May.

Other ministries on the LOTH campus are Kerr-Konnect, Mustard Seed Food Pantry, Methodist Healthcare’s Wesley Nurse program, Education & Exercise Center and Nutrition Center. These ministries combine to provide hope and a hand up for people in Kerrville and the six surrounding counties.

LOTH is a non-profit corporation whose Board of Directors come from both the Kerrville Community and the Rio Texas Conference Board of Trustees. At Annual Conference, the delegates will be asked to vote to accept a long-term lease agreement with LOTH.

The Rio Texas Conference Board of Trustees views this as the best path to honor the legacy of Mount Wesley and assure its continued viability as a fruitful ministry. This vision was born out of the work of the Mount Wesley Oversight Team and strategic partners that include First UMC: Kerrville, and Methodist Healthcare Ministries.

Does your church have a Youth Director or are you a Youth Director who would benefit from Theological Education? CYMT can help!

The Center for Youth Ministry Training (CYMT) is entering into its fourth year in Texas!  For the past thirteen years, CYMT has trained over 100 youth ministers in the Southeast. 

“The Center for Youth Ministry Training is excited to bring our ministry of developing theologically informed and practically effective youth ministries to Texas. We have had tremendous success in the Southeast developing sustainable, effective youth ministries and are excited about doing the same in Texas,” stated Dietrich Kirk, CYMT’s Executive Director. 

In today’s world, good youth ministry requires more than just games and guitars.  For youth to experience a life-changing faith, they need an intentional community of teens and adults where they have a personal encounter with God, are encouraged to understand God’s purpose for their lives and find hope in the intersection of their story with God’s bigger story.  

If your church has a youth director, or you are currently working in youth ministry at a church, and would like more practical training and theological education, the CYMT Training-Only program is for you. Residents in the Training-Only program are given the opportunity to earn their Master of Arts in Youth Ministry degree through a unique intensive-based curriculum format in partnership with Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary.

We are currently accepting applications from Churches and Residents for our Texas Regional Campus. Applications will be accepted through June 15th space permitting.

For more information please contact Teresa Kingsbury, CYMT’s Texas Regional Director at teresa@cymt.org or (512) 960-2989.  You can learn all about the CYMT Graduate Residency program at www.cymt.org. 

Conference Names Harvest Sunday Champion Diana Woods, Collection is Nov 3

The Transforming Communities Vision Team has appointed Diana Woods to serve as the Rio Texas Conference HARVEST SUNDAY champion. As a means of promoting this annual offering, the Harvest Sunday Initiative Group, led by Diana and under guidance by The Transforming Communities Vision Team, will coordinate promotion and publicity for the 2019 Harvest Sunday offering.

Diana Woods is a consecrated Deaconess through the Office of Deaconesses and Home Missioners, serving the Rio Texas Conference. Her appointed ministry addresses poverty and hunger in the northern Hays County area, primarily among the rural poor, elderly, and first-generation immigrant families. Diana graduated from Texas State University with a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master's of Public Administration. She served as the Hill Country District United Methodist Women's President as well as Mission Coordinator for Education and Interpretation. She previously worked as a social worker in public housing and in disability programs for the Social Security Administration. She is a member of Buda United Methodist Church where she previously served as Lay Leader and President of the United Methodist Women's Group.

Soon to be published in the upcoming Pre-Conference Journal, the Harvest Sunday Initiative Group will be recommending the following for approval by the 2019 Annual Conference:

That, Sunday, November 3, 2019, be recognized as the date of participation by local congregations in the Harvest Sunday Offering.

That, acknowledgement be given to congregations for their action toward meeting United Methodist goals of “engaging in ministry with the poor” and “combating the diseases of poverty by improving health globally.” One of the four areas of mission focus for the church is Ministry With the Poor. In the gospel of Matthew, Chapter 25, we hear the biblical mandate to care for those in need: "Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these, you did it to me." – re: www.umc.org

That, distribution of 2019 Harvest Sunday offering funds shall be as follows:

1.) 1/3 of totals collected, will be allocated for hunger initiative projects along the Texas-Mexico border areas that are situated, and served within the El Valle, Hill Country, Las Misiones and West Districts.

2.) 1/3 of totals collected will be returned to participating districts. Funds would be distributed, in consultation with district mission committees. Projects that seek ministry with, and, address root causes of poverty, would be of priority.

3.) 1/3 of totals collected, will be equally allocated among 5 Global Ministry Advance Projects with focus on food security and economic empowerment to be determined by the Harvest Sunday Initiative Group with concurrence by The Transforming Communities Vision Team