Church Conference

Sunday, December 1, was a busy day at SUM. In addition to the Caring Conversation after the 10:30 service, congregants returned for Church Conference. At 2:30 PM, a gathering of United Methodist churches from across the region (Farmington River Valley Parish) convened at the Simsbury United Methodist Church. Pastors and congregants from Copper Hill, North Canton, Torrington United Methodist, Litchfield United Methodist, Pleasant Valley, and Avon United Methodist joined the Simsbury community for an afternoon of fellowship, inspiration, and planning.

The conference began with a powerful multi-pastor-led communion service, uniting the diverse group in a shared act of worship. The service set a celebratory and reverent tone for the afternoon's proceedings.

Following the communion service, Superintendent Alpher Sylvester delivered a message of peace and forward movement on behalf of Bishop Bickerton. Rev. Sylvester emphasized the importance of evangelizing within our communities by identifying and addressing local needs. He encouraged the congregations to think differently about their campuses to better serve their missions and expand their outreach efforts.

In addition to these local initiatives, Rev. Sylvester acknowledged the broader scope of the Bishop's leadership, which now extends to both the New York and New England conferences. He highlighted the interconnectedness of these regions and the opportunities for collaboration and shared ministry.

After Superintendent Sylvester’s remarks, each Church conducted its business of the conference, in essence providing members with a “check-up” of sorts on all things church. We thank SUM’s Secretary, Leslie Lahue for the detailed conference minutes found here.  

Questions about Church Conference?  Please see our Council Chair, Sue Lemke, for more information.

Sue Lemke