Annual Conference 2006

Our Host and Hostess


Rev. Claudio Leal sharing his 2005 President's Report


Taking a break


The SandHill Team


Saying Goodbye


Pastor Mariella Carillo leading in Holy Communion


The Camp Committee sharing ideas


Georgia leading in songs

This year’s Annual Conference was held in San Lazaro and we were hosted by Mr. & Mrs. Smith who did a wonderful job of making us feel right at home. We were well fed and had a great time while we were there. Prior to the conference Rev. Claudio Leal took time out to once again go over the significance of the Annual Conference with his congregation and explained to them the importance of selecting a delegate who would be able to represent them well. His church body, exclusive of himself and his wife, selected a group of five persons to represent them at the conference. It was a very enlightening experience for the very energetic and vocal SandHill group as three of our group of six were first time attendees. Elections were held for the posts of President, Secretary and Treasurer of the Annual Conference. Rev. Donovan Grinage, Melicia Banks (both from Hattieville) and Oswin Blease (from SandHill) were elected to the three posts respectively. They were the sole nominees for their respective position and therefore their appointments were uncontested. Being that all three were new to their positions, and apart from the President both the Secretary and Treasurer were first-time attendees to our Annual Conference, questions were raised regarding their allegiance to the Methodist Protestant faith before they were confirmed to their positions. For the SandHill team it was especially important that the people who will be representing our group of churches be sound in the Methodist Protestant doctrine and be committed to the growth of the Methodist Protestant movement in the country of Belize. Many questions were put forward, especially to the nominee for President as his position is regarded as the most important of the three. Rev. Donald Ray Smith was driven to share with those in attendance the importance of the Methodist Protestant Discipline and the unquestionable role it must play in our churches. We are very appreciative to have him along with us sharing his knowledge and expertise about the Methodist Protestant faith. In the end all three officers publicly pledged their allegiance and commitment to continue to grow the Methodist Protestant movement in Belize. We are thankful for people who are willing to continue to give of their time and effort to further God’s work and our continued prayers will be upon our new leadership team. Of special interest to us also was the Camp Committee. Elected were Tanya Sutherland - Director, Alice Leal - Treasurer and Georgia Leal - Secretary (all three from SandHill). Other Members of the Camp Committee are Rev. Claudio Leal, Oswin Blease, Pastor Mariella Carillo, Pastor Hiliberto Santos and Angie Rodriguez. This committee has already begun to work and a one-day Youth Retreat has been scheduled for September 23rd. We are looking forward to having a great time with these youths while sharing God’s wonderful news of Salvation with them.