Connect Newsletter
June 2022

Dear friend,  
 
Our anticipation for General Assembly is continually growing as we draw closer to the event. This time together will be especially sweet given the isolation and disconnection that many of us have felt over the past two years, and we look forward to gathering once again as a larger community for Spirit-filled prayer, worship, and fellowship.

In addition to important General Assembly information, this newsletter contains stories of people and churches using their unique skills and abilities to deeply impact their world. From missionary teachers to church leaders, we are incredibly blessed to have these individuals in the BIC.
General Assembly Registration Closes in Two Weeks
As General Assembly 2022 quickly approaches, we have several updates and reminders to share with you:

  • Registration – Registration closes on June 24 – just two weeks from now! If you plan to attend, be sure to register on our website soon. Register now.

  • Zoom Meeting – If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the proposed recommendations that will be presented at General Assembly, Adam Forry and Alan Robinson will host a virtual gathering (Passcode:420883) on Tuesday, June 21, 2022, from 2:30-4:00 PM, EST. This will be an opportunity for delegates to ask questions and learn more about the heart behind the changes. Read proposed recommendations and attend the meeting.

  • Breakout Sessions – One of the best parts of this time together is the opportunity to learn from one another. This year, we are pleased to offer ten different breakout sessions in four time slots. These sessions are designed to strengthen our congregations, uplift our leaders, and introduce new ministry strategies and techniques. View sessions.
Partnership Handbook - SPICE
SPICE works to end cyclical poverty by providing children in India and Nepal with access to education, discipleship, and medical care. We invite you to partner with us to care for over 800 boys and girls and demonstrate the love of Jesus in tangible ways. Learn more.
Re-Entry Hope
James was ready to give up hope. Every time he found a promising job opportunity, his incarceration record came between him and an offer. How could he build a new life if he couldn’t secure work? New Life Community Church in Carlisle, Pa. is working to help people like James, first with a job fair and now with a support group. Read more.
New Missionary - Yolanda Rice
Meet Yolanda Rice! Yolanda is a first grade classroom teacher at El Camino Academy, a private Christian school in Bogotá, Colombia. A former participant in our STEP program, she is passionate about equipping the next generation of bilingual servant leaders who will transform the world. Join us in welcoming Yolanda to the BIC U.S. World Missions team. Read more.
Warren Hoffman Named Interim Bishop
We are pleased to announce that Warren Hoffman, former moderator for Brethren in Christ U.S., will serve as interim bishop of the Pacific Regional Conference starting in August 2022. This comes after long-term bishop Perry Engle transitioned out of denominational leadership to return to pastoral ministry at the end of April 2022. Warren will serve in this role for six to twelve months as the Pacific Conference conducts a search for a bishop to serve long term. Read more.
Many Vocations, One Mission
The landscape of missionary service has changed drastically since the Brethren in Christ started sending missionaries 120 years ago. Today, many of our global workers are stationed in more populated areas and use their vocational experiences to share Jesus' love. We had the opportunity to hear from three of our workers about the ways they use their professional skills to minister in their unique contexts. Read more.
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
– Hebrews 10:23-25