A Word from the District Board

As we shift our focus toward the year ahead, we want to build upon the solid foundation of work accomplished in 2023.  Our new District Executive Minister, Laura Stone, took the reins in February and was formally installed in April.  Dozens of folks were introduced to Laura at the sectional Meet-n-Greets hosted by congregations across the district.  Our immediate past board chair, Diana Bucher, helped plan and implement an overnight board retreat at Camp Mack which included opportunities for growth, planning, fellowship, exercise, and worship lead by past moderator Mark Stahl, and incoming moderator Bruce Dunk.

Your district board will be taking a deeper look at the factors that have lead some congregations to consider severing their relationship with the Church of the Brethren and the South/Central Indiana District.  We will develop action plans to address any of those factors that are within our ability to control.  Additionally, we will work on identifying a relevant value proposition that provides a basis for congregations to WANT to stay connected to the District and the “peculiar” body of believers known as the Church of the Brethren.  To put it bluntly, we need to figure out what value a congregation gets in exchange for their participation in our shared journey as we seek to continue the work of Jesus; simply, peacefully, together.

If you have thoughts you would like to share or concerns that you wish to express, please reach out to me at your convenience.

Paul Schrock

District Board Chair, 2024