'Attitude of Gratitude' Is Focus at Foundation’s Annual Meeting

“An Attitude of Gratitude” was the theme at the United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana’s 44th annual meeting and luncheon on April 30 at Juban’s Restaurant in Baton Rouge. The event allowed Foundation leaders and staff to declare their appreciation for the United Methodist pastors, donors and church leaders they have the privilege to serve.
 
Rob Fairly, president and CEO of the Foundation, and Chairman of the Board Rev. Weldon Bares led the meeting. 

The room was full of distinguished United Methodists from across the state, including Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey; Assistant to the Bishop, Dr. Van Stinson; Past Foundation President Dr. Ken Reed; Past Board Chairs Rev. Joseph Awotwi, Nettles Brown, District Superintendent Rev. Jan Curwick, Bridger Eglin, and Irwin Felps, as well as District Superintendents Rev. Ken Irby and Dr. Wybra Price.

Four new board members were elected to serve:  Lt. Col. Jarvis Jones of New Orleans, Drew Kennedy of West Monroe, Mary Magee of Alexandria, and Rev. Brian Mercer, senior pastor of First UMC, Minden.

Outgoing board members Frank Harrison of Lafayette was thanked for his 9 years of service and received a plaque for his dedication and commitment.

Board member Dianne Wilkinson received an award and recognition for her “extra mile” service on the board. Dianne led four “Best Practices for the Church Office” workshops in March around the state.

Dan Borné of Baton Rouge was the guest speaker, who expounded on the importance of showing gratitude in our lives. Borné is a deacon in the Catholic church and well known for his 30+ years as the public address announcer for the LSU Tigers. He delighted the crowd with his humor and advice for cultivating an attitude of gratitude.

Located in Baton Rouge, the United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana was founded in 1975 and serves United Methodist churches, institutions and individuals within the Louisiana Annual Conference, providing financial guidance and education, loans and grants.  It is one of the largest United Methodist Foundations in the denomination.