The SC ADVOCATE

This week I received the March issue of the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate. As the masthead says, it has been "informing and serving Methodism in South Carolina since 1837." It has been important to me since 1980 when we moved to South Carolina and joined Bethesda UMC in Powdersville. The Rev. Larry Salters introduced me to The Advocate as a way of answering the multitude of questions I had about the United Methodist Church in South Carolina. From that day forward, I have used it to keep in touch with what is happening across the South Carolina Conference and beyond. At one time, I served as the Chair of the Board of Trustees of this historic newspaper and through that experience really became connected to SC Methodism. Therefore, it will always have a special place in my heart.

How delightful to see the lead story to be about the recent Wesley Festival at Lincoln Center in New York City. Since Tim Koch, Andy Fowler and First UMC choir members were part of this, I read this article with pride and great interest. I can’t wait to hear the local version of this concert at Coastal Carolina University on March 17.

Another curious story on the front page concerns the Methodist home in Orangeburg which will be henceforth known only as The Oaks. However, the descriptive phrase, “A United Methodist Community”, will be included in advertising material according to the Rev. James McGee, CEO and president of the home. I am sure there is good reasoning in this decision, but James better be ready to explain it to the Annual Conference in June. Inquiring minds will want to know and will ask with passion and conviction. Having served on the Conference Board of Health and Welfare, I think our lay and clergy members will be surprised to learn how few Methodist dollars support our homes.

Also, a front page story serves as a reminder that we will be electing delegates for 2008 General Conference at this year’s annual conference. This is usually both fascinating and tedious, but always a good refresher course in Methodist polity. Ken is seeking to be one of our delegates to General Conference in Fort Worth April 23-May 2, 2008. I am also interested in making sure that a deacon is elected. The General Conference is the only official voice of the United Methodist Church, so who we send is very important.

I have discovered that this current front page of the Advocate can be found on-line.

Other Advocate stories this month are about
-Linda Gadsen, a God-fearing, spirit-filled woman, who cares for the impoverished population of the Johns Island area through the ministry of Rural Mission.

-The success of Souper Bowl Sunday across South Carolina including the $2,743.44 given by First UMC for the Homeless Shelter.

-The Nothing But Nets campaign that is buying and distributing insecticide- treated bed nets to protect people in Africa from mosquitoes that carry malaria.

The Advocate remains an important communication link in our connectional system and we need to make sure that Methodists understand its importance in defining who we are. Anyone can borrow my copy if they wish. However, a subscription might be even better. I will be glad to provide the information.