Bishop Ward invites persons to “journey”
Bishop Ward shares how the labyrinth is a tool for persons to use to explore their journey with God. The Conference has a floor labyrinth available for loan from the Media Center with books and tools to interpret this wonderful tool for Christian nurture in local churches. Listen to her description and invitation to the journey at Connections.
Conflict Resolution in Small Congregations
August 22-24 Hinton Rural Life Center
At one time or another in the ministry and life of a congregation, there may be conflict. While congregations and pastors seek to be faithful and to bear witness to the love of Christ, this faithfulness and loving example are challenged when faced with circumstances of conflict. How can a congregation live out its call to love amidst seemingly crippling disagreement? How can a congregation carry out ministry when hindered by division? How can a pastor offer effective leadership when conflict works against cooperation? How do we seek reconciliation and see it come to life in our communities? Hinton Rural Life Center invites pastors of small congregations to join together to consider these questions and many more, at “The Reconciliation Story: Conflict Resolution in Small Congregations.” This two-day workshop will explore the Biblical heritage of reconciliation, how Family Systems Theory applies to congregations, and the nature of conflict. Participants will assess personal conflict resolution styles and the implications of these styles on ministry and will acquire tools for conflict resolution and reconciliation ministry. For more information, go to Reconciliation.
Annual Conference Briefing videos are online
The 2013 Annual Conference session is only two weeks away! Briefing Session videos are intended to help persons attending the upcoming Conference session become familiar with the topics and issues which will be considered at Conference. Please find all Annual Conference-related files and information on the official 2013 Annual Conference page. If there are any questions, please send them to helpdesk@nccumc.org.
Register now for the UMF complimentary breakfast
The registration deadline for United Methodist Foundation’s free Continental breakfast on June 12 is Monday, June 3. The breakfast will be held at the City Hotel & Bistro Banquet Room located one block from the Greenville Convention Center. Free parking is available at the hotel. Learn about “Ways to Means,” a stewardship initiative designed to help churches find solutions for financial challenges through year round stewardship education, capital campaigns, endowment development and planned giving education. To register or read more, go to http://umf-nc.org/.
How to help tornado victims
On May 20, Moore, OK was devastated by a massive tornado. At this writing, 24 people have been confirmed killed and more than 240 have been injured. Earlier in the week, several tornadoes roared across central Texas killing at least six and injuring almost 100. Here in the North Carolina Conference, we know what it means to experience the trauma, the loss, and the heartbreak of disaster. In the past 2 years, we have received $1.5 million in relief funding to assist in our response to the devastation wrought by Hurricane Irene. This gift came from the hands and hearts of brothers and sisters across the United Methodist connection. Now is the time for us to do the same. See the ways your church can respond.
Family Camp in July
Camp Chestnut Ridge will be hosting Family Camp from July 19-21 for families large or small. All ages are welcome! Cost depends on desired accommodations. For more information, go to family camp.