Photo by Jim Covington Mike Guffee, senior pastor at Shandon United Methodist Church; Todd Davis, associate pastor for SUMC; MaryAnne Crews, delegate from SUMC; with Bishop Bishop Mary Virginia Taylor at the South Carolina Annual Conference United Methodist Church June 1- 4, 2008 at the Florence Civic Center in Florence, S.C. The theme of the conference was Dare to Change the World. Shandon UMC is the recipient of the Bishops Five Star Award for Excellence in Evangelism Ministry for the fourth straight year. This is an incredible accomplishment that should be celebrated by all members of the church. This year's award was presented to Dr. Mike Guffee, Rev. Todd Davis, and Staff/Parish Relations Committee chairperson, MaryAnn Crews at this year's Annual Conference in Florence.

Criteria to win award • Enhancement of Christian Education Programs.

This year Shandon offered "Doorways," a winter and fall group of Bible Studies and special events open to adults in the congregation and community. The purpose of "Doorways" was to provide more in- depth experiences to build relationships while exploring the Bible, questions of faith, and how to respond as Christians to the demands and needs of contemporary culture. A total of 315 adults enrolled in "Doorways" for the winter and fall of 2007. • Implement a "new work" that impacts growth

This year Shandon UMC started a new young adult ministry called "In- Sight for Young Adults," which targeted singles from their mid 20s to early 30s. InSight creates a place where young adults can meet God as they are, engage in issues of faith and life, serve others, and grow close relationships. There is currently a total of 50 young adults on the InSight mailing list and about 20 regularly active members.

• Have at least a 1% increase in new membership by Profession of Faith or Rededication.

This year Shandon received into membership 60 persons by these methods, a 2.18% increase in total membership.

Emphasize Youth Ministry

This year Shandon UMC offered to youth "Meet and 3," a dining and devotion time each month at S & S Cafeteria. They also met during Lent for the Lenten Bible Study based on "Leave It To Beaver," which emphasized the relevance of Scripture to the lives of youth.

• Pay 100% of Conference Apportionments Shandon UMC paid 100% or $274,910.00 in 2007!