As you may have heard, we recently vacationed in North Carolina, visiting our families and “hugging some necks.”. I can testify that the pool at my sister-in-law’s house was cool and fantastic. Likewise, Wrightsville Beach near Wilmington, NC, was sunny and full of joy while seeing my side of the family. I hope each of us are able to take some time away for renewal and time with loved ones and I was thankful for this chance to be with my family.
Upon returning from vacation, I immediately turned toward South Dakota to attend training at Dakota Wesleyan University. The Minnesota Conference asked me to be a part of a learning cohort called the Non-Profit Church Leadership Program. It is both an honor to be selected for this program as well as a challenge. The program is a graduate level, year-long program with focus in four areas: Stewardship, Church Governance and Management, Visioning and Community Outreach and Communication. I am excited to learn and grow in these areas and our congregation will have the opportunity to join in some of the learning.
Along with the classes, there are two applied projects, one in the fall and one in the spring, both involving the congregation. These projects will be unique to Asbury UMC and will be created in
consultation with people from the congregation. If you would like to read more about the program, feel free to check out this article 11 Area Clergy Complete Nonprofit Curch Leadership Program. Seven Begin at https://bit.ly/3f9I1Vm
As always, embarking on new projects is exciting, yet we know there is work to be done. I hope
you will join with me on this adventure and be participants in the applied projects.
How can you help? First of all, I would love to have your prayers. Prayers are powerful ways of supporting any person or experience and I hope you will include me regularly in yours.
Secondly, be curious with me. Feel free to ask what I am learning and how the classes or
project is going. I’d love to have conversations around these materials.
Thirdly, be willing to participate in the applied project. Don’t worry, it won’t be anything too difficult, and I’m sure there will be larger congregational involvement opportunities.
Finally, if you would like to help shape the direction of the project, let me know. I am looking for some of our congregational leaders to walk with me more closely as the projects develop.
Though my time away was wonderful and relaxing, I am glad to be back home at Asbury. I am looking forward to this new season as we continue to regather and regroup. I am eager to connect again through worship, projects and fellowship. I’d love to hear your stories around what we have learned, what our passions are, and how we can connect with one another and our larger community in ways that are meaningful. Come, join me on the journey!
Blessings and Peace,
Katherine