Regional Subdivisions

There has been much discussion regarding the "regional subdivisions."  To this point, they have been called "deaneries."  Why?  Because it is a churchly term which has not been used by previous bodies.  "Circuit," "district," "conference," etc. have all been used.  The simple definition of a deanery is that it is the area in which the dean lives. 

At the convocation, a decision will be made regarding the name.  The plan is that no more than 20 minutes be allotted to this discussion.  Probably the two terms which have received the most support are "deanery" and "mission district."  We hope that we can select a name which will be accepted by all.

After the convocation, the regional subdivisions will be meeting.  The majority of them will take place after Christmas.  The purpose will be 1) to elect a permanent dean (all the provisional deans have been asked to extend their service until the meeting can take place), 2) to adopt a constitution (a model is being developed) so that business can be conducted over the long term, 3) to build a stronger relationship among the pastors and congregations, 4) to work on ways that we can carry out ministry together, and 5) to conduct other business as seems good.

Shortly after the convocation, we will create a small task force of pastors and laity to make plans for the regional subdivision meeting.

(How did I do on not using a name until after the convocation? lol)

Pr. Jim Lehmann -- provisional dean