Celebrating Native American gifts and culture
In recounting the Council of Bishops meeting places at Lake Junaluska in 2013 and Oklahoma City this year, Bishop Ward remembers the Trail of Tears and asks us to be mindful and thankful for the Native American gifts and culture in our midst and in the body of Christ.
Sharing the greatest gift of all
A UMC national advent advertising campaign will launch Nov. 17. Watch for this video on television and in digital advertising spaces and let friends and fellow church members know to watch. Visit the Rethink Church store to download :30 and :15 videos for free. Order a customizable :23 video by emailing a request to mediaservices@umcom.org. Deadline to order is Dec. 1. Also available is a new sermon starter with worship slides, bulletin covers, and invitation cards to welcome people into your worship services. See more at Advent resources.
Perkins School of Youth Ministry
The Perkins School of Youth Ministry, Jan. 12-15, is a dynamic training and networking conference for youth ministry pastors, practitioners and volunteers who are passionate about youth ministry. During PSYM, youth ministry workers can study with respected scholars and leaders in youth ministry and Christian education, build relationships with their peers, refine their vision for youth ministry and refuel and renew their calling through worship, prayer and fellowship. More information about schedule, leaders, and workshops here.
UM Student Day Special Offering Nov. 30
United Methodist Student Day invites churches to support students with an offering that provides scholarships for qualified United Methodist applicants. Student Day is Nov. 30 this year, but churches can choose to observe it at any time. Click UM Student Day to view resources.
Open Enrollment period till Nov. 30
The 2015 Open Enrollment (OE) period for Conference insurance elections is Nov. 1-30. OE packets were mailed to participants in October. Participants should log into their account at www.ebenefitsnow.com to review their 2015 elections or contact Caroline Thornton at caroline@nccumc.org, 800-849-4433 ext. 228 for assistance.
Retirees with Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRA) should contact One Exchange at 855-801-9759 before Dec. 7 if you wish to change plans for 2015. No action is necessary if you wish to maintain your current plan enrollment.
Lilly grants available for clergy renewal
In the 2015 Lilly Endowment National Clergy Renewal Program, eligible congregations will be able to apply for grants of up to $50,000 each to support a renewal program for their pastor. Up to $15,000 of the grant may be used for congregational expenses associated with the renewal program. Activities funded by a grant in the 2015 programs may begin anytime in 2016. Read the full news story.
Sound District Skeeter Run POSTPONED
This Skeeter Run has been postponed. A new date will be announced later.
Faith Communities to connect with military families
The 5th Annual “Forward March: Moving Military Families Forward During Challenging Times,” taking place on Nov. 20-21, is one of the most unique and innovative conferences in the country in support of veterans, service members, and their families. Forward March hosts military-connected individuals, non-profit organizations, behavioral health professionals, educators, and faith-based and community organizations, to help identify and meet the unique needs of military-connected families faced with multiple deployments, transitions, and reintegration. For more information including the online registration, see Forward March and for the latest news, information, and conference updates, please go to https://www.facebook.com/ForwardMarchConference.