Vicki Myers & Harry Richter Learn at Stewardship Conference

“Grace, Gratitude and Generosity”

Attending the TENS Stewardship conference in Indianapolis was the opportunity for Harry Richter and me to learn more about stewardship and to network with others from around the country. We were also fortunate that we received two TENS scholarships from the Diocese to participate. The theme of the conference was “Grace, Gratitude and Generosity”. The opening service was held in Christ Church Cathedral which was especially meaningful to me as this is where Al and I were married almost 45 years ago. Prior to the service and throughout the conference, music was provided by Deborah and Jonathan Hutchison which was quite spiritual and inspirational. The service was beautiful and was the perfect way to start the conference. An inspiring sermon and keynote address were given by Dr. Walter Breuggemann, a highly respected theologian form the United Church of Christ tradition. He spoke of the urgency of stewardship in a failing society and the different kinds of relationships we have with the ultimate owner of all that we are and have. The plenary address was entitled “Celebrating the Offering, a Covenantal Response”. This evening ended with a meal which was an example of a festive meal celebrating stewardship followed by evening prayers. The dinner speaker was Kate Gillooly who spoke about “Coming to Terms with the Role of Money in My Spiritual Journey”.