Bishop Connie Shelton offers a Christmas reflection on Mary’s Magnificat and its significance for us today.
Announcements
Close-out period for 2024 apportionments
In order to receive credit for 2024, apportionment and advance special payments must be received in the Conference Treasurer’s Office by Wednesday, January 15, 2025. Click here for more details and mailing instructions. To check your church’s balance, visit our District Remittances page to view reports, which are updated daily as payments are posted. If you notice a discrepancy from your records, please email remittances@nccumc.org as soon as possible so that it can be corrected in a timely manner.
Bishop Shelton to serve on the Design Team for the 2026 Leadership Gathering
Bishop Tracy S. Malone, president of The Council of Bishops (COB) of The United Methodist Church, has named the Design Team to plan the COB Leadership Gathering that will take place in April or May of 2026. Bishop Connie Shelton will serve on the Design Team.
Bishop Shelton said, “This is an incredible opportunity to unite voices from every corner of our denomination! Emerging young leaders and innovative thinkers will engage in meaningful dialogue, spiritual reflection, and strategic planning. By fostering connections, inspiring new ideas, and addressing key challenges, the 2026 Leadership Gathering will renew our sense of purpose and unity!”
Supporting Clergy Mental Health and Well-being
Rev. Beth Hood, Assistant to the Bishop for the Office of Clergy Life, and Rev. Chris Brady, Capital District Superintendent, express their gratitude for our clergy and offer resources to support their mental health and well-being.
Visit Clergy Resources from the Office of Clergy Life for mental health financial assistance.
Visit the Duke Clergy Health Initiative for additional resources.
Winter Weather Preparation Resources
Temperatures have begun to drop in North Carolina as we enter the winter season. While our winter weather varies across the state, it is important to create a plan and prepare your home.
Here are a few steps and resources to help you as you prepare:
Create a Plan
Create an emergency plan with your family. Include a list of emergency contacts, set meet-up locations, know evacuation routes, and make arrangements for your pets.
Stay up to date with severe weather updates and information from emergency officials. For more information on emergency alerts, visit ready.gov, ReadyNC.gov, or ncdps.gov.
Download a Local Church Disaster Plan Template→
Download a Contact Card Template→
Build a Kit
Build an emergency kit or check to make sure your kit items are not expired. Include copies of important documents, cash, a first aid kit, non-perishable food, a gallon of water per person for seven days, blankets, and snow removal equipment. Be sure to include items for your pets, too!
If you are traveling during the winter months, build a kit to keep in your car.
Prepare Your Home & Church
Be sure to secure loose items outside and weatherize the building.
Check to see if your insurance policy is active, what it covers, how to file storm damage claims, and what information is needed. Be sure to take an inventory of your church and home and document items and their conditions in case of damage.
View low-cost tips for keeping your home warm→
View resources from the United Methodist Insurance Program→
Also, do not forget about weatherizing your car for extra safety precautions on the road. Keep a full tank of gas, install winter tires, carry a portable phone charger, and keep copies of emergency contacts and insurance information.
View tips on staying safe during winter travel→
For more information on winter weather preparedness, visit the American Red Cross, Ready.gov, National Weather Service, and Ready NC website.
View Winter Weather Infographics from the National Weather Service→
2025 Summer Camp Registration
As we approach 2025, excitement is building for another transformative summer at our beloved camps—Rockfish, Chestnut Ridge, and Don Lee. Each camp offers unique programs and unforgettable experiences rooted in faith, community, and adventure. Early registration opens soon, and spaces fill quickly!
Camp Rockfish
Registration opens December 6!
Camp Rockfish is known for its dynamic outdoor programs and Christ-centered community. Nestled on 486 acres in the Sandhills region of North Carolina at the intersection of Hoke, Cumberland, and Robeson counties, Camp Rockfish is ideally placed for a great experience for all guests. From high ropes courses to kayaking, campers build confidence and lifelong friendships while growing in their faith. Visit camprockfish.org to register.
Camp Chestnut Ridge
Registration opens December 1!
Camp Chestnut Ridge offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and spiritual formation. Group reservations are offered throughout the year including a summer camp program that allows campers to grow in relationship with God and others. Summer campers can enjoy horseback riding, swimming, nature exploration, and farming, all while participating in daily devotions and worship. Visit campchestnutridge.org to register.
Camp Don Lee
Registration for returning families begins on December 1! Registration for new families opens December 8!
Situated on the beautiful banks of the Neuse River, Camp Don Lee provides a one-of-a-kind coastal experience. Sailing, canoeing, and marine science activities allow campers to connect with God’s creation in profound ways. If you know families who may be interested in Camp Don Lee, please invite them to our Virtual Parents Night at 7 pm on Dec. 3. Visit donleecenter.org to register.
How to Register
Visit each camp’s website to explore session options, view dates, and complete the registration process. Early registration not only secures your camper’s spot but also helps us better prepare for a safe, enriching, and Christ-centered experience.
Why Register Now? Popular sessions fill quickly, and early registration ensures your spot and offers flexible payment options. A week at camp is a great holiday gift!
Don’t Forget: All three camps are open year-round to host retreats and other events!
Don’t miss the opportunity to give your child a summer filled with adventure, growth, and faith. Register today and be part of the life-changing experiences at Camp Rockfish, Camp Chestnut Ridge, and Camp Don Lee!
We look forward to welcoming you in 2025!