The Pastor’s ‘ Oa

1. July 2012 Greetings in the name of Jesus! The 164th Session of the California- Nevada Annual Conference met once again in Sacramento for four day (June 20th To June 23rd.). Pastors and delegates came together not only to deal with the business matters of our denomination but also for fellowship, renewal, and empowerment. The Bishop, Rev. Warner H. Brown, Jr. called the session to order with a powerful emphasis on this year’s theme, “Be, See, Do What Matters to God.” He delivered a very moving sermon that evening at the opening worship service with a “call to action” for all people of the United Methodist to work toward creating a “Space for Grace” even if that means one has to sacrifice one’s life for the sake of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Among the many items discussed during Plenary Session were: Ending the Death Penalty in California, Calling for the Protection of Iranian Dissidents in Iraq, Discontinuation of the Christ-Church United Methodist Church, Chowchilla, CA., Discontinuation of Calvary UMC San Francisco, CA., Bullying, Issues relating Apportionment, Pension and Health Care, Support Protection of Native American Women, Recommendation of Turning the Property at 1525 Waller Street, San Francisco into a Camping and Retreating Ministerial Site and the adoption of a Study Committee for an Inclusive Conference where people of faith may gather to study matters that divide us and to seek resolutions that help to bind us together as God’s children. Here is a great example of our denomination tries to care for its flock by trying to address issues that create disunity and seek to embrace the things that matter most to God. On a more happier note, Keisha KupuTangulu was elected as the newest member of our District’s Council on Ministries. This was a very spirit-filled and inspiring conference and Sela and I and the kids are so thrilled to come back for another year of working together with all of you. Grace and peace. Pastor Latu & Sela and the Gang. The Pastor’s ‘Oa