Hello -

The past four months serving the province have gone quickly and your Executive Committee is working to identify ways to strengthen the connection and communication among and between members of Province I. There were two notable decisions during the Nov 18 Synod Conference Call (See attached minutes).

First, we agreed to shift the line item budget for network activities into a pot for mini-grants.  Our hope is to inspire new collaborative efforts and fuel current efforts in the Province.  Watch for the grant process description and proposal process in the coming weeks.  

Second, I invited Synod delegates to meet via webconference in the three months leading up to our April 13-14 Synod and Pre-General Convention gathering. These meetings will be on the fourth Tuesday of the month:

• Jan 24 - Monthly Delegates Web Conference, 9 am ET
• Feb 28 - Monthly Delegates Web Conference, 9 am ET
• Mar 27 - Monthly Delegates Web Conference, 9 am ET  

In addition to increased communication, the goal is to identify efforts within the dioceses which would be strengthened by cross-diocesan collaboration and to support one another's efforts. I will be scheduling time between now and mid-Jan to talk with each delegate one-on-one and to test web conferencing ability.  (DELEGATES, please note: To participate in a live web conference, delegates will need a computer, a high speed internet access, and telephone. Phone-only participation will be possible if these are not available).  

There is much for us to prayerfully consider and discuss. Remember that in addition to providing information, this site provides all Province members the opportunity to create a profile and participate in interactive forums by posting comments, concerns, and insights. If you don't know how to use the site, please let me know. Also, let me know if there are ways your Province can help you better serve God's Mission.

Finally, please mark these dates on your calendars!

April 13-14          Synod and PreConvention Gathering, Doubletree Hotel, Westborough (info here)
July 5-12             77th General Convention in Indianapolis

I pray your time of Advent Anticipation has been hope-filled and that the Joy of the Christmas Season fills you and your loved ones. 

+ Blessings,

Julie

Julie Lytle, PhD
Interim Executive Director
executive.director@province1.org