The Florida Conference’s Conference Table, created in 2002, is a venue for clergy and laity to discuss the connectional life and current context of the United Methodist Church in Florida.

At similar gatherings last year the group created mission and vision statements, identified nine areas of concern about the conference and focused on congregational transformation. The goal for the next two years is for nine task groups to focus on those areas of concern and present their research at Conference Table meetings.

Issues addressed this year include clergy culture and cooperative parish ministry.

Upcoming topics are global mission Jan. 14 at First United Methodist Church, St. Petersburg; conference structure, staff and finances Jan. 30 at St. John’s United Methodist Church, Winter Haven; and camps and retreat centers March 13 at First United Methodist Church, Orlando.

For more information on the Conference Table visit http://www.flumc.org/conftable/.

The deadline for receipt of 2003 apportionments is Jan. 12.

This is not the postmark date, but the date by which 2003 apportionment funds must be received in the conference treasurer’s office in order to be counted in 2003.

Apportionments may be sent to Kathi Raker, Florida United Methodist Conference Center, Treasurer’s Office, 1140 E. McDonald St., Lakeland, FL 33801.