Those reading the statement should keep in mind that it is for missionary planners, not potential converts and it is to help us prepare for the future, not define the future.
A full text of the statement follows and appears in the graphic with this article.
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“Our vision ( desired outcome ) is:
To live the gospel of Jesus Christ and to be God's love with our neighbors in all places.
Our purpose ( what we do ) is:
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Growing in our relationship with God,
Being the body of Christ within the world,
Living in accordance with the example of Jesus Christ by:
• Engaging, equipping, and empowering local churches to be in ministry with and to our Global Neighborhood;
• Encouraging and developing leadership within the laity and clergy that is diverse and engaged with the vision of Christ and:
• Building relationships with our neighbors particularly with those who have been disenfranchised by mainstream society.” |
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According to the joint resolution approved by North Central New York, Troy , Western New York , and Wyoming Conferences during their respective annual sessions in 2008 the role and work of New ACT is to engage in discussions necessary to form:
A vision for this new area/conference that will lead forth into the coming decade.
A plan of union for the new conference in 2010.
A proposed design to facilitate the initial union of conferences, and a process to develop the necessary structure which will support the vision and mission of the new area/conference.
With a vision and purpose in place, New ACT has a framework for their work.
A number of New ACT subgroups and Task Forces are, or will soon begin, working on specific tasks needed to move forward a plan of union and proposed design. Guidelines for the Task Forces – Diversity, reporting, task assignment – are under development and teams ready to begin include Board of Ordained Ministry, Interim Sessions Committee, Local Church Assets Task Force and Ministry Contexts Task Force.
See “Nuts and Bolts” in story on January New ACT meeting for details on other groups and their work.
New ACT will look at budget for their work and other business on March 7. They will meet again on April 25.
The Uniting Conference is planned for June 19, 2009 in the Syracuse area, with the Uniting Worship Celebration (and adjourned session) set for September 11, 2009 in the Albany area..
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