LifeWay plans to reduce Glorieta’s operations to summer only

A bleak economic outlook continues to impact business practices as LifeWay Christian Resources approaches 2012. And the future of operations at LifeWay Glorieta Conference Center in New Mexico doesn’t look so bright either.

During their semiannual meeting Sept. 12–13 at LifeWay Ridgecrest Conference Center in North Carolina, LifeWay trustees passed after open discussion a proposal to reduce operations at Glorieta, effective Nov. 1, to a facility offering only summer events for student groups. In 2012, Centrifuge Camps and Collegiate Week will continue as usual.

Significant changes in church practices, continued rising fuel and utility costs, Glorieta’s remote location, an aging infrastructure, a volatile economy and changes in state convention structures have combined to make financial viability increasingly difficult at Glorieta, said Jerry Rhyne, vice president of the finance and business services division and LifeWay’s chief financial officer.

“As a matter of fiscal stewardship, LifeWay must control costs and manage resources in order to provide biblical solutions for life to individuals and churches in the most effective way,” Rhyne said.

Additionally trustees approved pursuing viable options for the disposition of the property including, but not limited to, sales to or alliances with Southern Baptist Convention entities, state conventions and other ministries.

Rhyne pointed out that LifeWay bylaws require trustee approval before any sale of all or part of campus property.

As a summer-only facility, Glorieta will reduce its staff from 23 to seven employees. During summer operations, the regular summer workforce will continue to be aided by summer staffers and volunteers. The LifeWay Christian Store on campus also will cease operation, effective Nov. 1.

“Making a decision about Glorieta is difficult based on Glorieta’s rich heritage and spiritual legacy, but it’s a necessary decision for more responsible stewardship,” Rhyne said.

For a complete statement on the Glorieta action, visit GlorietaConferenceCenter.org/Statement.  (BP)