(June 1, 2015)

Centenary gears up for 2015 Louisiana United Methodist Annual Conference

SHREVEPORT, LA — Centenary College will welcome Methodist delegates from across Louisiana to the Gold Dome Sunday, June 7, to Wednesday, June 10, for the 2015 Louisiana United Methodist Annual Conference. Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey will preside as the episcopal leader of the four-day event. Harvey will present her episcopal address to the Louisiana United Methodist Conference Sunday, June 7, at 7:30 p.m. during the Communion Service.

"Come and See" is the theme for the 2015 Conference based on the scripture John 1:39-51, in which Jesus invites some of His disciples to believe in Him—and to "come and see."

"It is a privilege for Centenary to host the Louisiana Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church," said Rev. Valerie Robideaux, Centenary Director of Professional Discernment and Chaplain. "Centenary students and staff work diligently to welcome them and offer a hospitable space for worshipful work. As a United Methodist-related college, Centenary stands at the intersection of faith and academy. Hosting Annual Conference is a beautiful example of that rich tradition and connection to United Methodism."

This year's conference will bring back several recently introduced event favorites including a tailgate featuring music, food trucks, and fellowship and an Oscar-inspired awards night dubbed "The Wesleys" to recognize outstanding ministries throughout the conference.

Several Centenary alumni are contributing to this year's conference in a variety of capacities:

Young Adult Summit graphic created by alumna Sarah Duet '11

Centenary alumnus and lead pastor of The Story Houston Rev. Eric Huffman '01, will serve as a guest speaker on Tuesday, June 9. Alumnus Rev. Drew Sutton '03 will lead a Young Adult Summit that will meet periodically throughout conference. Sutton currently serves as the Director of Louisiana State University's Wesley Foundation. Alumna Sarah Duet '11 who is on staff at Shreveport's Yellow House of Highland through Community Renewal, designed the graphic for the Young Adult Summit.

The offering from the Sunday evening worship will support the purchase of health kits for the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR). The offering from the Ordination Service will help underwrite costs for participants traveling to the Holy Land on a tour in January 2016.

For more information, visit the 2015 Louisiana Annual Conference page.