Organizing S.C. Churches for Children 
The 2013 South Carolina Annual Conference (UMC) started on Sunday, June 9, 2013 with the theme "A More Excellent Way." As the Pan Methodist Campaign for Children in Poverty in South Carolina begins to launch efforts to renew and empower congregations, members are encouraged to find a more excellent way to reach children in poverty. The Task Group met the end of April and discussed how to get the word out about the plight of children, as well as how to get churches involved. State Senator John Matthews told the group, "Most churches spend 99 percent of their time taking care of their needs and don't have much left for community needs. Children represent 25 percent of the population but 100 percent of the future."
Reaching out through this campaign reminds each of us to care for children in the way God calls us. All children have a basic need and right to know that God loves them infinitely and that God seeks for them a life of joy, hope, and meaning. Many South Carolina churches provide significant ministries for children but the time is right to do more, and we need to do a better job at educating congregations about the needs of children and the poor. Task Group member, Bishop Jack Meadors (retired), has said, "Children have no money and can't vote. We need to be their advocate and engage in ministries to improve their life.” South Carolina United Methodists are seeking "A More Excellent Way!" ~ Martha F. Thompson, Campaign Liaison