The Fall 2005 Ohio Association of Conservative Congregational Christian Churches was warmly hosted by the brethren of Ganges Community Church, Ganges, Ohio. Thirty-five persons were in attendance, Dr. John Hood moderating.
Following a time of worship and praise, the morning meeting was dedicated to a panel discussion by the Ohio association officers with feedback sought and received from all in attendance concerning crafting an alternative education track for older, non-traditional students who have been called by the Lord into pastoral ministry. After approximately 75 minutes of discussion a consensus clearly emerged indicating the need for a curriculum committee to be formed to prepare a basic program of theological and practical education which could be administered and overseen by a seasoned mentoring pastor for a candidate.
After a wonderful lunch prepared by the ladies of Ganges Church, the afternoon business meeting included crystallizing the idea of a curriculum committee. Five member ministers have been identified so far as being willing to serve on the committee. They are: Peter Parry, Jeff Lord, David Dake, Marshall Pierson, and John Hood. Others who may be interested in serving should contact John Hood, Ohio Association Moderator. The other matters addressed in the afternoon meeting were as follows:
- It was moved, seconded, and carried that up to $ 300.00 will be provided to pay for air fare for Rev Parry for the Jan 26-28, 2006 meeting of the CCCC regional representatives in St. Paul MN;
- The Ohio winter banquet will be Fri, Feb 24, 6-9 pm at Troyer’s Heritage Restaurant located near the exit off Interstate 71 on Ohio State Route 97; Guest Speaker will be Rev. Dr. Larry Stroble, Senior Pastor, Mt Zion Church, Beavercreek, Ohio (Mt Zion Church, organized in 1845, has been a CCCC member church since 1992);
- Rev David Lippert is researching a free pastoral retreat opportunity, and will report back at the Spring 2006 meeting;
- The Spring 2006 meeting will be at First Congregational Church, Lodi, Ohio, the Lord willing.
Submitted by: Marshall Pierson, Secretary 10/08/05