At a called meeting of the Yearly Meeting of Ministry and
Oversight of North Carolina Yearly Meeting (Conservative) held at Wilmington
Friends Meeting house on the afternoon of fourth month 27, 2003, approximately
14 Friends gathered from Rich Square (including Salem-Black River Allowed
Meeting), Durham, Friendship, West Grove, Fayetteville, and Wilmington Monthly
Meetings.
This meeting was the fourth of a series of called
meetings for this body. Those
present felt clear to report to the yearly meeting that by having visitation
and meetings more often, we have helped bring the various meetings closer
together. Friends present
expressed belief that we have brought awareness of concerns regarding ministry
to the meetings. A letter from
Bill O'Connor, clerk of Durham Monthly Meeting expressing appreciation for the
visit in first month was read.
The meeting gathered in worship out of which Friends
spoke of various themes for consideration by the Yearly Meeting of Ministry and
Oversight.
á Friends
recommended continued moveable Yearly Meetings of Ministry and Oversight
throughout the year. These
meetings sometimes would be separate from Representative Body meetings so
smaller meetings can host us as well as meetings large enough to host a weekend
event.
á General
inter-visitation was encouraged.
This may be coordinated by YM MEO, with reports after visits have
occurred.
á Friends
spoke of developing a specific spiritual formation program for our yearly
meeting that would be analogous to programs developed in other yearly meetings.
á Friends
expressed the importance of encouraging individuals to participate in the
School of the Spirit and activities to give specific nurture to those
individuals just starting out in ministry.
á Friends
were reminded that the Gospel is "Good News" which we are called to
celebrate. Friends were encouraged
to see the yearly meeting as an opportunity to tell the Story and to celebrate
Christ's presence among us. In
addition to the Journal, there may be other ways to tell our story and to give
an account of how God has been active in our lives.
The meeting closed with gratitude to God for this day and
the hospitality provided by Wilmington Friends. The Yearly Meeting of Ministry and Oversight is scheduled to
next meet in anticipation of the opening session of yearly meeting in seventh
month at Guilford College. Friends
may gather for worship in the gallery of Founders Hall at Guilford College on
seventh month 9, 2003 at 4:00 PM and for attention to business relating to
ministry and oversight after the evening meal, if consistent with Divine Will.
Barbara Gosney Lloyd
Lee Wilson
Recording Clerk Clerk