The 30th Annual LCCC Conference is a big success!

Most people heartily agree that this year's conference was both "very professional," "intellectually stimulating" and "great fun," just to mention a few comments on the evaluation sheets that participants returned.

Here is an overview of some of the highlights:

Conference week kicked off with the Sancta Sophia Board of Governors' Sunday: "Sunday Morning Live: Make a Joyful Noise!" Governors Retha Banez, Mary Jane Dicus, Bonita Plymale, Connie Swan, Sue Van Dyke and Dean Susan Hamilton expressed their own joy for the opportunity to serve the Christ, and they provided insightful quotes from other world religions concerning joyous praise.

This service was followed by the formal installation of Rev. Retha Banez as Pastor of LCCC. The Thursday evening event was a retirement party for Rev. Robert Willson as he has stepped down as Co-Pastor of LCCC.

Monday night marked the Appointment of Ordaining Officials, and Rev. Retha Banez, Rev. Steven Chase, and Rev. Katherine Zakutansky were charged with that significant responsibility. A major theme this year has been the importance of Group Work, and this appointment reflects that aspiration. The Board of Trustees, John Banez and Revs. Steven Chase, Patsy Fine, Cynthia McGinnis, Helen Weiser and Katherine Zakutansky, held a Welcome Reception after the service.


Tuesday morning the SSS Board of Governors presented highlights of the 2012 Schedule of Classes, introduced an exciting new program of studies, and showed appreciation for the Sophia Schools of Wisdom through the last decade. Dr. Betty Carper was there to receive much love, praise and gratitude for her many years of service to the school.

Among the presentations and events on Wednesday was the opportunity for conferees to visit Carol Parrish and Charles Harra at a reception at their home. The Alumni Association met later that night and current Officers are President Anthony Williams; Vice President Dixie Hargues; Treasurer, Marilyn Szoko; Parliamentarian Neroli Imbs; and News Reporter, Wendy Stork.


Many people commented on the professionalism, efficiency and instructiveness of the Membership Meeting this year as ideas and ideals were presented for the membership of LCCC to consider. Rev. Anthony Williams was elected by the membership to serve as the newest member on the LCCC Board of Trustees. The winner of the "early registrant" drawing was Rev. Dixie Hargues who received a beautiful original painting by Rev. Cedar Carrier. The annual Friends of Sancta Sophia Reception followed in Sophia's Nest Bookstore and Gifts, and Rev. Tom Simota was the winner of the $300 gift certificate from Friends.

On Friday and Saturday, the Conference speaker, Rev. Eric Elnes, was well-received for the insight he offered into retaining faith and listening to Spirit. Dr. Elnes was also a guest at the Friday evening Sancta Sophia Graduation ceremony which recognized the accomplishment of several students during the past year.


Saturday afternoon was a Practitioner Certification consecrating Roseanne Hutchinson and Andy LeVoir as LCCC's newest Practitioners. That night offered much frivolity as conferees were entertained at the "Sparrow Hawk Affirmations" talent show. The Sunday Closing Service was lead by the Trustees, and an open mic welcomed other ministers to offer their insights.

The Board of Trustee members extend deep gratitude for all who attended the 30th Annual Conference and added their unique energy to make it such a success. For those who requested excused absences, we held you in our hearts during our time together. Suggestions, comments and ideas are always welcome, and we encourage you to contact us at LCCCBoard@sanctasophia.org.

As always,
In Gratitude and Blessings,
The Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees
Rev. Steven Chase, President
Rev. Katherine Zakutansky, Secretary
John Banez, Treasurer
Rev. Cynthia McGinnis, Trustee and CEO
Rev. Patsy Fine, Trustee
Rev. Anthony Williams, Trustee