Task Force update

FRESNO, CA.

The General (North American) MB Conference restructuring Task Force has spent the last nine months listening and collecting information to assist us in fulfilling the mandate given to us by the 1997 General MB Conference convention in Waterloo, Ont. The Task Force greatly appreciates the time that has been taken by many boards and individuals to meet with us and provide us with input. In addition, we thank General MB Conference executive secretary Marvin Hein for the considerable administrative assistance he has given us.

We have identified the following three objectives to guide us as we analyze the incoming data and begin to frame the recommendation to submit to the Executive Council of the General MB Conference in early February, 1999:

1. To enhance the effectiveness of conference ministries;

2. To build "connectedness" between the local church and conference ministries;

3. To streamline administrative functions.

To date, the Task Force has gathered data from the boards and committees in the General and national MB Conferences. We have also attended both the US and Canadian national MB conventions, leading a question and answer session for delegates as well as being available at the convention for those interested in contributing verbal input.

A survey was published in The Christian Leader and the Mennonite Brethren Herald in August. Surveys will be published in Le Lien, Mennonitische Rundschau and Chinese Herald in November. The completed surveys will help to guide the Task Force. Please complete a survey and return it as soon as possible.

In September we met with the boards and executive of the General MB Conference. We also provided an interim progress report to the General MB Conference Council of Boards.

Pastors, moderators and church leaders have received an individual mailing to encourage them to give input. We encourage them to reply prayerfully as they will give added insight into the question of the most effective structure.

The next step is the most difficult and requires wisdom and discernment. We covet your continued prayers as we strive to complete our task and develop a recommendation that best serves the work of the Kingdom.

Gayle Goossen

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