Photo by Ken Wenger Best Friends, a new Brethren group dedicated to sharing music in the African-American tradition, makes its Annual Conference debut.

Quotes of the Day

"It is time for disaster relief.”
--A speaker at the microphone expressing concern for ministers who will be considered “uninsurable,” during discussion of the recommendation to phase out the Brethren Medical Plan medical insurance component for ministers.

“Just let it rip. I’ll call you out of order if necessary.”
--Moderator Belita Mitchell encouraging a speaker at the microphone.

A Bit About Cleveland
&1870--January 10. Standard Oil Company established by John D. Rockefeller.”
--From the website of the Convention and Visitors Bureau of Greater Cleveland, www.travelcleveland.com.

Photo by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford Chris Raschka, renowned children's book illustrator, demonstrates his illustration techniques at the Brethren Press breakfast.

Overview of the Day
The Brethren Benefit Trust Fitness Challenge, a 5K walk/run for all ages, began at 7 a.m., followed by the Chaplain’s Breakfast, Brethren Press Breakfast, Bible studies and theological study, spiritual formation group, and insight sessions.

The morning and afternoon saw business sessions and age group activities.

Lunchtime included the Denominational Deacon Luncheon, the Brethren Life and Thought Luncheon, the Brethren Volunteer Service Luncheon, the Cross Cultural Luncheon, the Womaen’s Caucus Luncheon, and the Brethren Revival Fellowship Luncheon, along with insight sessions and mutual help groups.

The Mutual Aid Association held a membership meeting in the afternoon. Bethany Seminary held a reception for retiring president Eugene Roop. Dinnertime featured the Church of the Brethren Evangelical Network Banquet and a concert by the new African-American Brethren group Best Friends.

Evening worship was led by preacher Duane Grady, Congregational Life Teams staff for the General Board. Bible studies, an intercultural Worship Music Celebration, and insight sessions followed on topics such as “First-Hand Reports from Iraq” and “Bloodstream to Mainstream: Voices for an Open Spirit and Brethren Revival Fellowship.”

Brethren enjoyed ice cream to end the day.

Photo by Nevin Dulabaum Brethren of all ages took part in the 5k walk/run Fitness Challenge sponsored by the Brethren Benefit Trust.

Results of BBT Fitness Challenge
Brethren sped past the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame + Museum and Burke Lakefront Airport in the annual timed 5K Fitness Run/Walk, sponsored by Brethren Benefit Trust. The event was a multi-generational one, with 120 participants aged 6 to 76, and several parent and child teams. The Messick family of Salida, Colo., featured dad Matt and mom Kristy pushing sons Jonah and Micah (ages 1 and 2 1/2) in a running stroller.

The participants with the top finish times were Jerry Crouse (male runner, 18:37), Katherine O’ Donnell (female runner, 22:13), Don Shankster (male walker, 33:09), and Bev Anspaugh (female walker, 33:09). The times posted by the top walkers were both new records for the event. Several of the leaders are repeat winners.

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