2009 Conference-Wide Events

The following workshops are being offered for church leaders, both lay and clergy. The workshops, held in various churches of the Virginia Conference, are scheduled for 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., and will offer ½ CEU for full participation.

Event # 1: Running the Race -- Keeping the Faith

This workshop for clergy will explore the concept of ministry as a marathon, and examine three themes: “Why We Run the Race” (motivation), “Getting and Staying in Shape” (for the demands of ministry), and “Heading toward the Finishing Line” (achieving goals). No matter what phase of ministry you are in, this event will help you assess how well you are doing and offer suggestions for “running the race” more effectively.
Resource Leader: Franklin Gillis, Ministry Consultant.
  Event 1: April 29 – St. Matthew’s UMC – 1706 St. Matthew’s Lane, Richmond

Event # 2: Ministry in Different Size Churches

Successful ministry occurs differently in different size churches. This workshop will examine the elements of successful ministry in small, medium, and large churches, when to know a church is transitioning from one size to another, and how to help them through the transition. Unique characteristics of each size church will be identified, followed by small group work according to the church size represented by participants.
Resource Leaders: Franklin Gillis, Glen Langston, and Mike Shirley, Ministry Consultants
  Event 2: July 11 – Mt. Pisgah UMC, 1100 Mt. Pisgah Dr., Midlothian

Event # 3: Evangelism in a New Age

We cannot effectively evangelize today’s un-churched by putting the same old wine into the same old wineskins. We must find “new wine” for sharing the faith that will appeal to and impact today’s un-churched. This workshop will explore the nature of the un-churched, their search for meaning in life, and ways we can effectively reach them with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Resource Leader: Glen Langston, Ministry Consultant
  Event 3 A: September 26 – Main Street UMC, 212 E. Main St., Bedford
  Event 3 B: October 24 – Andrew Chapel UMC, 1311 Trap Rd., Vienna

Event # 4: Getting Focused: Planning for More Fruitful Ministry

This workshop will explore the importance of being focused on mission, core values, and vision as driving concepts in the life of the church. Practical suggestions and resources will be offered to clarify and interpret these vital concepts that enable church leadership to set goals, prioritize, and plan for a more fruitful ministry.
Resource Leader: Mike Shirley, Ministry Consultant
  Event 4: October 3 – Chester UMC, 12132 Percival St., Chester

 Online Registration Form

The fee for each event is $49, which includes agenda/workbook, resources and lunch. (Early registration discount six weeks in advance, $44.) Group rates for three or more from the same church are available @ $40 per person. For more information, or to apply for partial scholarship assistance, contact Dr. Franklin Gillis, Director, via e-mail or call 804-272-3313. Confirmation and payment instructions will be sent by e-mail upon receipt of reservation. Check-in for all events is 9:00 a.m. All events begin promptly at 9:30 a.m. and conclude by 3:00 p.m.