2012 Network Conference kicked off with the Alaska Missions Banquet at the Egan Center. The opening banquet is always a joy, as we reconnect with friends from all around the state. This night was special in particular, as we celebrated 75 years of US Missions. We honored our US Missionaries serving in Alaska, as well as raised money for the new building in Kotlik.
The Kress family from MCA provided music during dinner. It was excellent!
In this photo, you can see US Missions Director Zollie Smith, our featured speaker of the evening. He is in the bottom of the photo. To his left is Intercultural Director Malcom Burleigh. We were honored to have him in attendance.
Superintendent Bill Welch, Presbyter Fay Niemann, Youth Director Mark Zweifel, and Children's Director Pam Hodges each took turns reading about each of our US Missionaries serving in Alaska. We are so blessed to have such quality servants of the Lord working in the Alaska Ministry Network. Alaska Home Missions Director Lattis Campbell put together a nice book honoring each of the missionaries, and also provided pledge forms for each missionary.
Pastor Bill introduced US Missions Director Zollie Smith. Brother Zollie gave an excellent word, reminding us that God desires that none should perish. He said that Jesus is the antidote for the perishing.
We recognized all churches who gave at least $5,000 to Alaska Missions from the Alaska Missions Banquet in 2011 through the present. This past year, that included Muldoon Community Assembly ($18,255), Matanuska AG ($15,300), Kenai New Life ($15,010), Juneau Christian Center ($14,500), Crossroads AG ($9,856), Abundant Life in Sterling ($7,500), King's Way ($6,950), North Pole AG ($6,310), and Fairbanks First AG ($5,025). We are very thankful to all the churches and individuals who have given to Alaska Missions.
There are two US Missionary couples who are in the itineration process. Anthony (pictured at mic below) and Kristin Nelson are going to be starting a Dream Center in Bethel, Alaska. We are very excited about that opportunity. Jeremiah and Sharnay Niemuth (pictured below on left) are itinerating to minister in Fort Yukon and the Yukon Flats. They have been pastoring there for a while, and are now taking the next step in obedience to God. If you feel led to support either of these missionaries, or another of our other US Missionaries serving in Alaska, we think that would be excellent!
Missionary Pastor and Western Region Presbyter Austin Jones received the offering and took pledges for the Kotlik Project. We received a cash offering of $11,305 and additional pledges of $65,195. Praise the Lord!
Assistant Superintendent Gary Morton closed the service with announcements and prayer.
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