Submitted by Regional Moderator Tim Diebel
Vision Task Group: Presented a vision and process to lead us to a new structure that fully reflects the energy and spirit of what we have been experiencing as “Disciples Together.” This is possible now that our Line of Credit Debt is fully paid off. Will be listening and presenting with groups throughout the region with hopes to bring a proposal to the February regional board meeting.
Budget Management Task Group: Reported the exciting news that the 192,000 line of credit has been paid off. They continue to meet once a month with the task on continuing the responsible watch of our finances.
Camp Ministry: Registrations reach 1042 a decade high! A.D.a.M (Art, Drama and Music a major success in its premier outing.
Youth Unit: UmwYC (Regional Youth Council) coming together and beginning planning for the High School Youth Assembly in November and Youth events at the Disciples Network Gathering in October. Unit is also hosting the Youth Worker Interchange on September 10-11 with Mark Riddle.
Congregational Transformation: Sponsoring Clergy Sharing events in 8 different locations in the region in late October.
School for Congregational Learning: Shared that the event this year will be $10 less then last year, will move to West Des Moines Christian Church, has exciting practical workshops for all and will feature Jose Morales as the keynoter. All takes place on August 28th.
Commission on Ministry: Reported that they had a very productive meeting and continue to encourage and nurture people in and during ministry.
Ministers’ Institute: Planning the next gathering for January 24-26th with the theme of “Coaching in Congregations” with Tom Clegg as the keynote speaker.
New Church Unit: Shared that the new church in Rochester continues to grow in strength and that many churches in the region have chosen to support through above and beyond giving. Looking for new ways to use New Church funds to encourage congregations to explore new church ministries through a grant process.
Personnel Unit: Requested action to help modify the membership of the unit to make it more reflective of the diversity of the region particularly as it relates to age. The board gave authority to the moderator of the board to appoint some additional members. This was requested as they begin to prepare to initiate a search for the next settled Regional Minister and President.
Property Unit: Working on plans to update and replace buildings at the conference center and continue with the sale of the regional church center.
Regional Assembly Presents: Disciples Network Gathering: Continue to work on plans for the gathering on October 9th. There will be no charge for the event and the food booths will be sponsored by congregations with money going back to local mission. This will be an event that is a mix of a state fair and a family reunion with lots of fun for all.
Stewardship & Mission Interpretation: Preparing for final plans for the mission trip to Poland with another possible mission trip to Haiti being planned for next fall.