In addition to the opportunities for mission, ministry and service offered by your local United Methodist church, the laity of the Louisiana Annual Conference sponsor several state-wide ministries. These include the Bob Lay Memorial 1000 Club, which raises funds for church building, repairs and renovations; and the Daughenbaugh-Matheny Scholarship program, which raises funds to provide scholarships for deserving students to attend our United Methodist-supported colleges, Centenary College and Dillard University . A special committee has recently been established to raise funds for the relief efforts in response to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Additional seminars, programs and periodic special events sponsored or supported by our laity seek to promote a greater understanding of the theological and biblical basis for leading a Christian life. In supporting an annual Laity Sunday at our churches, we seek to thank, support and encourage our laity in their service to the community and the world. Special speakers at our Annual Conference laity session and laity breakfast address issues vital to our shared ministry. Programs such as the Bishop's Laity Retreat provide more intensive discipleship development opportunities in a relaxed weekend retreat setting.

Of course, your suggestions for other programs and resources that can aid in our conference mission—to raise up spiritual leaders who make disciples for Jesus Christ—are always welcome.

We appreciate your interest in our web site, and hope that you will respond to our invitation to join us as we seek to grow in faith, fellowship, mission and ministry to all God's children.

	Sarah Kreutziger    Conference Lay Leader
	Joyce Robinson    Associate Conference Lay Leader