In Manhattan last night, both teams faced pivotal moments. For KU, a crucial fumble ended their hopes of breaking a sixteen-year drought. For K-State, wisdom under pressure led to a game-winning field goal. These moments of decision – whether to dive forward or protect the ball, trust your preparation, or doubt yourself – reveal some […]
As we stand just a month from election day, our nation buzzes with promises, debates, and visions for the future. It’s a time when golden calves of politics and charismatic leaders vie for our allegiance. Yet, how often do we find ourselves, like the Israelites at the foot of Mount Sinai, growing impatient with God’s […]
I recently had the opportunity to serve as a reserve delegate from the Great Plains Annual Conference at the 2020(4) United Methodist General Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina. This historic gathering brought together delegates from around the world to make important decisions that will impact the future of our church. When I returned, a Sunday […]
Imagine standing at a crossroads, the horizon stretched before you, painted with the bright colors of dawn. This moment, right now, feels like that—a pivotal point in our journey together. As I share the news of my upcoming appointment to McPherson First United Methodist Church, we stand together on the edge of change, between the […]
I have come to understand that the planning and execution of a pastoral transition can make a significant difference in the fruitfulness of both a pastor and congregation in the months ahead. There are a number of resources that I have used to develop tools which I have used in transition. You can find these […]
I have come to understand that the planning and execution of a pastoral transition can make a significant difference in the fruitfulness of both a pastor and congregation in the months ahead. There are a number of resources that I have used to develop tools which I have used in transition. You can find these […]
Since being appointed to serve within the Topeka District of the Great Plains Annual Conference, I have had the opportunity to serve as the lead for the Topeka District Strategy Team. I have been learning as I go, seeking to get to know congregations and leaders of the area. Here are some of my current […]
Over the last several years, the Great Plains Annual Conference has introduced Networks into our life in ministry together. These are groups of congregations that share a physically contiguous mission field – all the churches in an area. The church which I serve, Berryton United Methodist Church, is connected in a network with Big Springs […]
A couple weeks ago, I traveled to Houston for continuing education focused on highly functioning teams. It was part of the Advancing Pastoral Leadership program that I have been part of for several years. We had the opportunity to hear from leaders from Chick-fil-A, NASA, and Chapelwood UMC. It was an excellent learning opportunity and […]
On Monday, we enrolled our children in First and Second Grade at Berryton Elementary School. While we have driven by the building, this was our very first time inside. We filled out all the papers, received a quick tour of the building and found their classrooms. It was another milestone in our season of transition […]
Last Sunday there was a farewell event for our family after the 11 a.m. worship service. It was a wonderful time – heartfelt thanks, earnest wishes, and blessings were shared from one to the other. I shared a few things to those that were there and share them with you here. Thumbnail Sketch If I […]
Last week, I had the opportunity to attend the BOM Mid Quad Training Event in Denver. Bishop Hagiya of The Pacific Northwest Conference who shared his dissertation research results around the question: “What traits, qualities, or characteristics, if any, do highly effective and successful United Methodist Church ministers exhibit specifically in regard to growth of their churches when compared to less effective […]
Rev. Andrew Conard 