Rev. Joe Pool reflects on year's challenges

Making the first report of the 2007 Annual Conference, Rev. Joe Pool, Chairman of the Committee on the Episcopacy offered reflections on what was a challenging year for the Episcopacy committee.

With the death of Bishop Rhymes H. Moncure, Jr., members of the committee coordinated the effort in offering a ministry of care and comfort to the Moncure family, members of the annual conference, and the general denomination. Rev. Pool thanked the churches that opened their hearts and facilities in hosting the memorial services for Bishop Moncure.

Rev. Pool offered thanks to God for Bishop Alfred L. Norris's appointment to serve as Bishop for the North Texas Annual Conference. Rev. Pool noted that Bishop Norris did not consider himself an interim Bishop, but the Bishop who is committed to getting "down to the business of making disciples of Jesus Christ."

Dr. Mackie Norris was introduced as the first lady of the annual conference and was presented with gifts symbolizing the joy the conference has in receiving her. Dr. Norris expressed her appreciation for the warm reception she has received in coming to the North Texas Conference and also recognized Bishop Norris's commitment to serve this conference and God.

The committee presented Bishop Norris, an avid football fan, with a gift of a jersey made up of the jerseys of the Atlanta Falcons, the Bishop's home team, and the Dallas Cowboys, the Bishop's new home team.

Rev. Joe Pool, chair of the Committee on the Episcopacy, presents the 2007 report.