Laity, clergy gather for AC workshop on partnering

By Jessica Brodie

GREENVILLE—Dozens of clergy and laity gathered at Annual Conference for a luncheon workshop designed to help them better partner on ministries in the church.

Hosted by Lay Servant Ministries, the workshop featured leadership from Dr. Rob Vaughn and Martha Stokes. Vaughn and Stokes are from the Virginia Annual Conference; Stokes is a certified lay speaker and Vaughn is a pastor and member of that conference’s delegation to General Conference.

The pair led the gathering in round-table discussions designed to break down boundaries and foster dialogue about challenges and opportunities they are facing in the local church, and how clergy and laity can work together to resolve issues and serve God in the best ways possible.

“It takes all God’s people to do all of God’s work,” Stokes told the crowd.

The gathering began with a lighting of the Christ light by Sheila Shanklin, Orangeburg District director. Bill Barber, Marion District director, gave the prayer, and Spartanburg District Director Annie Crocker gave the Scripture reading (from Luke 10:1-9). Brian Underwood, Greenville District director, welcomed the large crowd to the gathering, and Kris Bergmann, Charleston District co-director, shared the purpose of Lay Servant Ministries, which is to lead, care and communicate.

Lay Servant Ministries Director Jackie Jenkins also spoke and thanked participants for their enthusiastic attendance.