ministries

CONAM Local Church Representatives

“Every local church at Charge Conference shall designate by nomination and election a minimum of one person per charge (without regard to race or ethnic origin) or a designated member of an established church committee to represent the need for better awareness of Native American contributions in the local church. These names are to be submitted to the District Superintendent at Charge Conference and given to the Annual Conference Committee on Native American ministry." (Book of Discipline, 2008, ¶654)

Suggested duties for the Local Church Representative to CONAM

• Be the contact person to receive and communicate to the local church: information, concerns, and schedules of events related to Native American ministry from CONAM and from the Conference staff.
• Secure the date of and contribute to: planning, promoting and resourcing the annual Native American Ministries Sunday with a special offering with Native American participation if possible (the third Sunday of Easter or at another time).
• Encourage awareness of and appreciation for Native American history, traditions, culture, contributions and presence in the nation, state and Church, especially The United Methodist Church. This can be done through studies: a bibliography of book and DVDs is available from the conference CONAM and from United Methodist Communications; Native American speakers/teachers, exchange events such as hymn sings, youth meetings, visiting Native churches on the reservations. Excellent resources are available for Sunday School lessons at all age levels.
• Provide the Conference CONAM with contact information: name, address, phone number, and email address of any person(s) who identifies as Native American in the local church.
• Provide brief reports/plans to Charge Conference and Conference CONAM on local church Native American Ministries Sunday celebration with offering and other activities, program and events and Advance giving to Native American Ministries.