BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Brick River Technologies//NONSGML v1.0//EN BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120124T103833Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Missions Course in Dothan DESCRIPTION:A premier missions course called Perspectives will begin in the Dothan area January 17, 2012.  What is Perspectives?  Pe rspectives is known as the premier training experience for c hurches wanting their members to have a deep, transformative , and scriptural foundation for God’s work among the nations .  The course is famous in mission circles, and it is publis hed by the US Center for World Mission and is hosted in hund reds of locations nationwide. Our first-ever Dothan course w ill be co-sponsored by Covenant UMC, Harvest UMC, Greystone UMC, and Dothan FUMC, and we would love other pastors, churc hes, or mission committees to join us or send members to the course.  What Makes Perspectives Different?  Perspectives i s far more than the typical Bible study.  Each of the 15 cla sses is taught directly by a missionary specialist.  We’ve f ound the best-of-the-best missionaries, professors, and chur ch planters to fly to Dothan to teach our course.  The inter action with great missionaries is proven to be life-changing .  Also, the course includes a textbook with selections from all of the great mission books you’ve always wanted to read .  Students can choose to study at the Certificate Level or Key Readings Level.When and where is the Course?  The course will begin on January 17 and will run for 15 weeks, every T uesday night, 6:20pm - 8:50pm. The course will be located at Friend Bank’s community room (across from Krispy Kreme on t he Circle). We chose a neutral location so that all churches , and denominations, will feel welcome to join us.  The even t ends May 1, 2012.How do I find out more?  You can learn ab out Perspectives by going to www.perspectives.org  Click her e to register directly on the website. We offer an Early Bir d Rate until December 23.  Also, each of our partnering chur ches will offer additional financial help to members, as you may wish to do for your own members.For more information, c ontact any of our coordinators:Mike Hoppe (Covenant) mike@co venantdothan.orgBob Willis (Greystone) rwillis@troy.edu   Ru dy Heintzelman (FUMC) rudy@fumcdothan.orgMary Earnest (Harve st) mearnest@sw.rr.comJanet Stone (Harvest) jstone@sw.rr.com   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120131T103833Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Missions Course in Dothan DESCRIPTION:A premier missions course called Perspectives will begin in the Dothan area January 17, 2012.  What is Perspectives?  Pe rspectives is known as the premier training experience for c hurches wanting their members to have a deep, transformative , and scriptural foundation for God’s work among the nations .  The course is famous in mission circles, and it is publis hed by the US Center for World Mission and is hosted in hund reds of locations nationwide. Our first-ever Dothan course w ill be co-sponsored by Covenant UMC, Harvest UMC, Greystone UMC, and Dothan FUMC, and we would love other pastors, churc hes, or mission committees to join us or send members to the course.  What Makes Perspectives Different?  Perspectives i s far more than the typical Bible study.  Each of the 15 cla sses is taught directly by a missionary specialist.  We’ve f ound the best-of-the-best missionaries, professors, and chur ch planters to fly to Dothan to teach our course.  The inter action with great missionaries is proven to be life-changing .  Also, the course includes a textbook with selections from all of the great mission books you’ve always wanted to read .  Students can choose to study at the Certificate Level or Key Readings Level.When and where is the Course?  The course will begin on January 17 and will run for 15 weeks, every T uesday night, 6:20pm - 8:50pm. The course will be located at Friend Bank’s community room (across from Krispy Kreme on t he Circle). We chose a neutral location so that all churches , and denominations, will feel welcome to join us.  The even t ends May 1, 2012.How do I find out more?  You can learn ab out Perspectives by going to www.perspectives.org  Click her e to register directly on the website. We offer an Early Bir d Rate until December 23.  Also, each of our partnering chur ches will offer additional financial help to members, as you may wish to do for your own members.For more information, c ontact any of our coordinators:Mike Hoppe (Covenant) mike@co venantdothan.orgBob Willis (Greystone) rwillis@troy.edu   Ru dy Heintzelman (FUMC) rudy@fumcdothan.orgMary Earnest (Harve st) mearnest@sw.rr.comJanet Stone (Harvest) jstone@sw.rr.com   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120207T103833Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Missions Course in Dothan DESCRIPTION:A premier missions course called Perspectives will begin in the Dothan area January 17, 2012.  What is Perspectives?  Pe rspectives is known as the premier training experience for c hurches wanting their members to have a deep, transformative , and scriptural foundation for God’s work among the nations .  The course is famous in mission circles, and it is publis hed by the US Center for World Mission and is hosted in hund reds of locations nationwide. Our first-ever Dothan course w ill be co-sponsored by Covenant UMC, Harvest UMC, Greystone UMC, and Dothan FUMC, and we would love other pastors, churc hes, or mission committees to join us or send members to the course.  What Makes Perspectives Different?  Perspectives i s far more than the typical Bible study.  Each of the 15 cla sses is taught directly by a missionary specialist.  We’ve f ound the best-of-the-best missionaries, professors, and chur ch planters to fly to Dothan to teach our course.  The inter action with great missionaries is proven to be life-changing .  Also, the course includes a textbook with selections from all of the great mission books you’ve always wanted to read .  Students can choose to study at the Certificate Level or Key Readings Level.When and where is the Course?  The course will begin on January 17 and will run for 15 weeks, every T uesday night, 6:20pm - 8:50pm. The course will be located at Friend Bank’s community room (across from Krispy Kreme on t he Circle). We chose a neutral location so that all churches , and denominations, will feel welcome to join us.  The even t ends May 1, 2012.How do I find out more?  You can learn ab out Perspectives by going to www.perspectives.org  Click her e to register directly on the website. We offer an Early Bir d Rate until December 23.  Also, each of our partnering chur ches will offer additional financial help to members, as you may wish to do for your own members.For more information, c ontact any of our coordinators:Mike Hoppe (Covenant) mike@co venantdothan.orgBob Willis (Greystone) rwillis@troy.edu   Ru dy Heintzelman (FUMC) rudy@fumcdothan.orgMary Earnest (Harve st) mearnest@sw.rr.comJanet Stone (Harvest) jstone@sw.rr.com   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120214T103833Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Missions Course in Dothan DESCRIPTION:A premier missions course called Perspectives will begin in the Dothan area January 17, 2012.  What is Perspectives?  Pe rspectives is known as the premier training experience for c hurches wanting their members to have a deep, transformative , and scriptural foundation for God’s work among the nations .  The course is famous in mission circles, and it is publis hed by the US Center for World Mission and is hosted in hund reds of locations nationwide. Our first-ever Dothan course w ill be co-sponsored by Covenant UMC, Harvest UMC, Greystone UMC, and Dothan FUMC, and we would love other pastors, churc hes, or mission committees to join us or send members to the course.  What Makes Perspectives Different?  Perspectives i s far more than the typical Bible study.  Each of the 15 cla sses is taught directly by a missionary specialist.  We’ve f ound the best-of-the-best missionaries, professors, and chur ch planters to fly to Dothan to teach our course.  The inter action with great missionaries is proven to be life-changing .  Also, the course includes a textbook with selections from all of the great mission books you’ve always wanted to read .  Students can choose to study at the Certificate Level or Key Readings Level.When and where is the Course?  The course will begin on January 17 and will run for 15 weeks, every T uesday night, 6:20pm - 8:50pm. The course will be located at Friend Bank’s community room (across from Krispy Kreme on t he Circle). We chose a neutral location so that all churches , and denominations, will feel welcome to join us.  The even t ends May 1, 2012.How do I find out more?  You can learn ab out Perspectives by going to www.perspectives.org  Click her e to register directly on the website. We offer an Early Bir d Rate until December 23.  Also, each of our partnering chur ches will offer additional financial help to members, as you may wish to do for your own members.For more information, c ontact any of our coordinators:Mike Hoppe (Covenant) mike@co venantdothan.orgBob Willis (Greystone) rwillis@troy.edu   Ru dy Heintzelman (FUMC) rudy@fumcdothan.orgMary Earnest (Harve st) mearnest@sw.rr.comJanet Stone (Harvest) jstone@sw.rr.com   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120221T103833Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Missions Course in Dothan DESCRIPTION:A premier missions course called Perspectives will begin in the Dothan area January 17, 2012.  What is Perspectives?  Pe rspectives is known as the premier training experience for c hurches wanting their members to have a deep, transformative , and scriptural foundation for God’s work among the nations .  The course is famous in mission circles, and it is publis hed by the US Center for World Mission and is hosted in hund reds of locations nationwide. Our first-ever Dothan course w ill be co-sponsored by Covenant UMC, Harvest UMC, Greystone UMC, and Dothan FUMC, and we would love other pastors, churc hes, or mission committees to join us or send members to the course.  What Makes Perspectives Different?  Perspectives i s far more than the typical Bible study.  Each of the 15 cla sses is taught directly by a missionary specialist.  We’ve f ound the best-of-the-best missionaries, professors, and chur ch planters to fly to Dothan to teach our course.  The inter action with great missionaries is proven to be life-changing .  Also, the course includes a textbook with selections from all of the great mission books you’ve always wanted to read .  Students can choose to study at the Certificate Level or Key Readings Level.When and where is the Course?  The course will begin on January 17 and will run for 15 weeks, every T uesday night, 6:20pm - 8:50pm. The course will be located at Friend Bank’s community room (across from Krispy Kreme on t he Circle). We chose a neutral location so that all churches , and denominations, will feel welcome to join us.  The even t ends May 1, 2012.How do I find out more?  You can learn ab out Perspectives by going to www.perspectives.org  Click her e to register directly on the website. We offer an Early Bir d Rate until December 23.  Also, each of our partnering chur ches will offer additional financial help to members, as you may wish to do for your own members.For more information, c ontact any of our coordinators:Mike Hoppe (Covenant) mike@co venantdothan.orgBob Willis (Greystone) rwillis@troy.edu   Ru dy Heintzelman (FUMC) rudy@fumcdothan.orgMary Earnest (Harve st) mearnest@sw.rr.comJanet Stone (Harvest) jstone@sw.rr.com   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120228T103833Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Missions Course in Dothan DESCRIPTION:A premier missions course called Perspectives will begin in the Dothan area January 17, 2012.  What is Perspectives?  Pe rspectives is known as the premier training experience for c hurches wanting their members to have a deep, transformative , and scriptural foundation for God’s work among the nations .  The course is famous in mission circles, and it is publis hed by the US Center for World Mission and is hosted in hund reds of locations nationwide. Our first-ever Dothan course w ill be co-sponsored by Covenant UMC, Harvest UMC, Greystone UMC, and Dothan FUMC, and we would love other pastors, churc hes, or mission committees to join us or send members to the course.  What Makes Perspectives Different?  Perspectives i s far more than the typical Bible study.  Each of the 15 cla sses is taught directly by a missionary specialist.  We’ve f ound the best-of-the-best missionaries, professors, and chur ch planters to fly to Dothan to teach our course.  The inter action with great missionaries is proven to be life-changing .  Also, the course includes a textbook with selections from all of the great mission books you’ve always wanted to read .  Students can choose to study at the Certificate Level or Key Readings Level.When and where is the Course?  The course will begin on January 17 and will run for 15 weeks, every T uesday night, 6:20pm - 8:50pm. The course will be located at Friend Bank’s community room (across from Krispy Kreme on t he Circle). We chose a neutral location so that all churches , and denominations, will feel welcome to join us.  The even t ends May 1, 2012.How do I find out more?  You can learn ab out Perspectives by going to www.perspectives.org  Click her e to register directly on the website. We offer an Early Bir d Rate until December 23.  Also, each of our partnering chur ches will offer additional financial help to members, as you may wish to do for your own members.For more information, c ontact any of our coordinators:Mike Hoppe (Covenant) mike@co venantdothan.orgBob Willis (Greystone) rwillis@troy.edu   Ru dy Heintzelman (FUMC) rudy@fumcdothan.orgMary Earnest (Harve st) mearnest@sw.rr.comJanet Stone (Harvest) jstone@sw.rr.com   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120306T103833Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Missions Course in Dothan DESCRIPTION:A premier missions course called Perspectives will begin in the Dothan area January 17, 2012.  What is Perspectives?  Pe rspectives is known as the premier training experience for c hurches wanting their members to have a deep, transformative , and scriptural foundation for God’s work among the nations .  The course is famous in mission circles, and it is publis hed by the US Center for World Mission and is hosted in hund reds of locations nationwide. Our first-ever Dothan course w ill be co-sponsored by Covenant UMC, Harvest UMC, Greystone UMC, and Dothan FUMC, and we would love other pastors, churc hes, or mission committees to join us or send members to the course.  What Makes Perspectives Different?  Perspectives i s far more than the typical Bible study.  Each of the 15 cla sses is taught directly by a missionary specialist.  We’ve f ound the best-of-the-best missionaries, professors, and chur ch planters to fly to Dothan to teach our course.  The inter action with great missionaries is proven to be life-changing .  Also, the course includes a textbook with selections from all of the great mission books you’ve always wanted to read .  Students can choose to study at the Certificate Level or Key Readings Level.When and where is the Course?  The course will begin on January 17 and will run for 15 weeks, every T uesday night, 6:20pm - 8:50pm. The course will be located at Friend Bank’s community room (across from Krispy Kreme on t he Circle). We chose a neutral location so that all churches , and denominations, will feel welcome to join us.  The even t ends May 1, 2012.How do I find out more?  You can learn ab out Perspectives by going to www.perspectives.org  Click her e to register directly on the website. We offer an Early Bir d Rate until December 23.  Also, each of our partnering chur ches will offer additional financial help to members, as you may wish to do for your own members.For more information, c ontact any of our coordinators:Mike Hoppe (Covenant) mike@co venantdothan.orgBob Willis (Greystone) rwillis@troy.edu   Ru dy Heintzelman (FUMC) rudy@fumcdothan.orgMary Earnest (Harve st) mearnest@sw.rr.comJanet Stone (Harvest) jstone@sw.rr.com   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120313T093833Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Missions Course in Dothan DESCRIPTION:A premier missions course called Perspectives will begin in the Dothan area January 17, 2012.  What is Perspectives?  Pe rspectives is known as the premier training experience for c hurches wanting their members to have a deep, transformative , and scriptural foundation for God’s work among the nations .  The course is famous in mission circles, and it is publis hed by the US Center for World Mission and is hosted in hund reds of locations nationwide. Our first-ever Dothan course w ill be co-sponsored by Covenant UMC, Harvest UMC, Greystone UMC, and Dothan FUMC, and we would love other pastors, churc hes, or mission committees to join us or send members to the course.  What Makes Perspectives Different?  Perspectives i s far more than the typical Bible study.  Each of the 15 cla sses is taught directly by a missionary specialist.  We’ve f ound the best-of-the-best missionaries, professors, and chur ch planters to fly to Dothan to teach our course.  The inter action with great missionaries is proven to be life-changing .  Also, the course includes a textbook with selections from all of the great mission books you’ve always wanted to read .  Students can choose to study at the Certificate Level or Key Readings Level.When and where is the Course?  The course will begin on January 17 and will run for 15 weeks, every T uesday night, 6:20pm - 8:50pm. The course will be located at Friend Bank’s community room (across from Krispy Kreme on t he Circle). We chose a neutral location so that all churches , and denominations, will feel welcome to join us.  The even t ends May 1, 2012.How do I find out more?  You can learn ab out Perspectives by going to www.perspectives.org  Click her e to register directly on the website. We offer an Early Bir d Rate until December 23.  Also, each of our partnering chur ches will offer additional financial help to members, as you may wish to do for your own members.For more information, c ontact any of our coordinators:Mike Hoppe (Covenant) mike@co venantdothan.orgBob Willis (Greystone) rwillis@troy.edu   Ru dy Heintzelman (FUMC) rudy@fumcdothan.orgMary Earnest (Harve st) mearnest@sw.rr.comJanet Stone (Harvest) jstone@sw.rr.com   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120320T093833Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Missions Course in Dothan DESCRIPTION:A premier missions course called Perspectives will begin in the Dothan area January 17, 2012.  What is Perspectives?  Pe rspectives is known as the premier training experience for c hurches wanting their members to have a deep, transformative , and scriptural foundation for God’s work among the nations .  The course is famous in mission circles, and it is publis hed by the US Center for World Mission and is hosted in hund reds of locations nationwide. Our first-ever Dothan course w ill be co-sponsored by Covenant UMC, Harvest UMC, Greystone UMC, and Dothan FUMC, and we would love other pastors, churc hes, or mission committees to join us or send members to the course.  What Makes Perspectives Different?  Perspectives i s far more than the typical Bible study.  Each of the 15 cla sses is taught directly by a missionary specialist.  We’ve f ound the best-of-the-best missionaries, professors, and chur ch planters to fly to Dothan to teach our course.  The inter action with great missionaries is proven to be life-changing .  Also, the course includes a textbook with selections from all of the great mission books you’ve always wanted to read .  Students can choose to study at the Certificate Level or Key Readings Level.When and where is the Course?  The course will begin on January 17 and will run for 15 weeks, every T uesday night, 6:20pm - 8:50pm. The course will be located at Friend Bank’s community room (across from Krispy Kreme on t he Circle). We chose a neutral location so that all churches , and denominations, will feel welcome to join us.  The even t ends May 1, 2012.How do I find out more?  You can learn ab out Perspectives by going to www.perspectives.org  Click her e to register directly on the website. We offer an Early Bir d Rate until December 23.  Also, each of our partnering chur ches will offer additional financial help to members, as you may wish to do for your own members.For more information, c ontact any of our coordinators:Mike Hoppe (Covenant) mike@co venantdothan.orgBob Willis (Greystone) rwillis@troy.edu   Ru dy Heintzelman (FUMC) rudy@fumcdothan.orgMary Earnest (Harve st) mearnest@sw.rr.comJanet Stone (Harvest) jstone@sw.rr.com   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120327T093833Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Missions Course in Dothan DESCRIPTION:A premier missions course called Perspectives will begin in the Dothan area January 17, 2012.  What is Perspectives?  Pe rspectives is known as the premier training experience for c hurches wanting their members to have a deep, transformative , and scriptural foundation for God’s work among the nations .  The course is famous in mission circles, and it is publis hed by the US Center for World Mission and is hosted in hund reds of locations nationwide. Our first-ever Dothan course w ill be co-sponsored by Covenant UMC, Harvest UMC, Greystone UMC, and Dothan FUMC, and we would love other pastors, churc hes, or mission committees to join us or send members to the course.  What Makes Perspectives Different?  Perspectives i s far more than the typical Bible study.  Each of the 15 cla sses is taught directly by a missionary specialist.  We’ve f ound the best-of-the-best missionaries, professors, and chur ch planters to fly to Dothan to teach our course.  The inter action with great missionaries is proven to be life-changing .  Also, the course includes a textbook with selections from all of the great mission books you’ve always wanted to read .  Students can choose to study at the Certificate Level or Key Readings Level.When and where is the Course?  The course will begin on January 17 and will run for 15 weeks, every T uesday night, 6:20pm - 8:50pm. The course will be located at Friend Bank’s community room (across from Krispy Kreme on t he Circle). We chose a neutral location so that all churches , and denominations, will feel welcome to join us.  The even t ends May 1, 2012.How do I find out more?  You can learn ab out Perspectives by going to www.perspectives.org  Click her e to register directly on the website. We offer an Early Bir d Rate until December 23.  Also, each of our partnering chur ches will offer additional financial help to members, as you may wish to do for your own members.For more information, c ontact any of our coordinators:Mike Hoppe (Covenant) mike@co venantdothan.orgBob Willis (Greystone) rwillis@troy.edu   Ru dy Heintzelman (FUMC) rudy@fumcdothan.orgMary Earnest (Harve st) mearnest@sw.rr.comJanet Stone (Harvest) jstone@sw.rr.com   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120403T093833Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Missions Course in Dothan DESCRIPTION:A premier missions course called Perspectives will begin in the Dothan area January 17, 2012.  What is Perspectives?  Pe rspectives is known as the premier training experience for c hurches wanting their members to have a deep, transformative , and scriptural foundation for God’s work among the nations .  The course is famous in mission circles, and it is publis hed by the US Center for World Mission and is hosted in hund reds of locations nationwide. Our first-ever Dothan course w ill be co-sponsored by Covenant UMC, Harvest UMC, Greystone UMC, and Dothan FUMC, and we would love other pastors, churc hes, or mission committees to join us or send members to the course.  What Makes Perspectives Different?  Perspectives i s far more than the typical Bible study.  Each of the 15 cla sses is taught directly by a missionary specialist.  We’ve f ound the best-of-the-best missionaries, professors, and chur ch planters to fly to Dothan to teach our course.  The inter action with great missionaries is proven to be life-changing .  Also, the course includes a textbook with selections from all of the great mission books you’ve always wanted to read .  Students can choose to study at the Certificate Level or Key Readings Level.When and where is the Course?  The course will begin on January 17 and will run for 15 weeks, every T uesday night, 6:20pm - 8:50pm. The course will be located at Friend Bank’s community room (across from Krispy Kreme on t he Circle). We chose a neutral location so that all churches , and denominations, will feel welcome to join us.  The even t ends May 1, 2012.How do I find out more?  You can learn ab out Perspectives by going to www.perspectives.org  Click her e to register directly on the website. We offer an Early Bir d Rate until December 23.  Also, each of our partnering chur ches will offer additional financial help to members, as you may wish to do for your own members.For more information, c ontact any of our coordinators:Mike Hoppe (Covenant) mike@co venantdothan.orgBob Willis (Greystone) rwillis@troy.edu   Ru dy Heintzelman (FUMC) rudy@fumcdothan.orgMary Earnest (Harve st) mearnest@sw.rr.comJanet Stone (Harvest) jstone@sw.rr.com   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120410T093833Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Missions Course in Dothan DESCRIPTION:A premier missions course called Perspectives will begin in the Dothan area January 17, 2012.  What is Perspectives?  Pe rspectives is known as the premier training experience for c hurches wanting their members to have a deep, transformative , and scriptural foundation for God’s work among the nations .  The course is famous in mission circles, and it is publis hed by the US Center for World Mission and is hosted in hund reds of locations nationwide. Our first-ever Dothan course w ill be co-sponsored by Covenant UMC, Harvest UMC, Greystone UMC, and Dothan FUMC, and we would love other pastors, churc hes, or mission committees to join us or send members to the course.  What Makes Perspectives Different?  Perspectives i s far more than the typical Bible study.  Each of the 15 cla sses is taught directly by a missionary specialist.  We’ve f ound the best-of-the-best missionaries, professors, and chur ch planters to fly to Dothan to teach our course.  The inter action with great missionaries is proven to be life-changing .  Also, the course includes a textbook with selections from all of the great mission books you’ve always wanted to read .  Students can choose to study at the Certificate Level or Key Readings Level.When and where is the Course?  The course will begin on January 17 and will run for 15 weeks, every T uesday night, 6:20pm - 8:50pm. The course will be located at Friend Bank’s community room (across from Krispy Kreme on t he Circle). We chose a neutral location so that all churches , and denominations, will feel welcome to join us.  The even t ends May 1, 2012.How do I find out more?  You can learn ab out Perspectives by going to www.perspectives.org  Click her e to register directly on the website. We offer an Early Bir d Rate until December 23.  Also, each of our partnering chur ches will offer additional financial help to members, as you may wish to do for your own members.For more information, c ontact any of our coordinators:Mike Hoppe (Covenant) mike@co venantdothan.orgBob Willis (Greystone) rwillis@troy.edu   Ru dy Heintzelman (FUMC) rudy@fumcdothan.orgMary Earnest (Harve st) mearnest@sw.rr.comJanet Stone (Harvest) jstone@sw.rr.com   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120417T093833Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Missions Course in Dothan DESCRIPTION:A premier missions course called Perspectives will begin in the Dothan area January 17, 2012.  What is Perspectives?  Pe rspectives is known as the premier training experience for c hurches wanting their members to have a deep, transformative , and scriptural foundation for God’s work among the nations .  The course is famous in mission circles, and it is publis hed by the US Center for World Mission and is hosted in hund reds of locations nationwide. Our first-ever Dothan course w ill be co-sponsored by Covenant UMC, Harvest UMC, Greystone UMC, and Dothan FUMC, and we would love other pastors, churc hes, or mission committees to join us or send members to the course.  What Makes Perspectives Different?  Perspectives i s far more than the typical Bible study.  Each of the 15 cla sses is taught directly by a missionary specialist.  We’ve f ound the best-of-the-best missionaries, professors, and chur ch planters to fly to Dothan to teach our course.  The inter action with great missionaries is proven to be life-changing .  Also, the course includes a textbook with selections from all of the great mission books you’ve always wanted to read .  Students can choose to study at the Certificate Level or Key Readings Level.When and where is the Course?  The course will begin on January 17 and will run for 15 weeks, every T uesday night, 6:20pm - 8:50pm. The course will be located at Friend Bank’s community room (across from Krispy Kreme on t he Circle). We chose a neutral location so that all churches , and denominations, will feel welcome to join us.  The even t ends May 1, 2012.How do I find out more?  You can learn ab out Perspectives by going to www.perspectives.org  Click her e to register directly on the website. We offer an Early Bir d Rate until December 23.  Also, each of our partnering chur ches will offer additional financial help to members, as you may wish to do for your own members.For more information, c ontact any of our coordinators:Mike Hoppe (Covenant) mike@co venantdothan.orgBob Willis (Greystone) rwillis@troy.edu   Ru dy Heintzelman (FUMC) rudy@fumcdothan.orgMary Earnest (Harve st) mearnest@sw.rr.comJanet Stone (Harvest) jstone@sw.rr.com   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120424T093833Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Missions Course in Dothan DESCRIPTION:A premier missions course called Perspectives will begin in the Dothan area January 17, 2012.  What is Perspectives?  Pe rspectives is known as the premier training experience for c hurches wanting their members to have a deep, transformative , and scriptural foundation for God’s work among the nations .  The course is famous in mission circles, and it is publis hed by the US Center for World Mission and is hosted in hund reds of locations nationwide. Our first-ever Dothan course w ill be co-sponsored by Covenant UMC, Harvest UMC, Greystone UMC, and Dothan FUMC, and we would love other pastors, churc hes, or mission committees to join us or send members to the course.  What Makes Perspectives Different?  Perspectives i s far more than the typical Bible study.  Each of the 15 cla sses is taught directly by a missionary specialist.  We’ve f ound the best-of-the-best missionaries, professors, and chur ch planters to fly to Dothan to teach our course.  The inter action with great missionaries is proven to be life-changing .  Also, the course includes a textbook with selections from all of the great mission books you’ve always wanted to read .  Students can choose to study at the Certificate Level or Key Readings Level.When and where is the Course?  The course will begin on January 17 and will run for 15 weeks, every T uesday night, 6:20pm - 8:50pm. The course will be located at Friend Bank’s community room (across from Krispy Kreme on t he Circle). We chose a neutral location so that all churches , and denominations, will feel welcome to join us.  The even t ends May 1, 2012.How do I find out more?  You can learn ab out Perspectives by going to www.perspectives.org  Click her e to register directly on the website. We offer an Early Bir d Rate until December 23.  Also, each of our partnering chur ches will offer additional financial help to members, as you may wish to do for your own members.For more information, c ontact any of our coordinators:Mike Hoppe (Covenant) mike@co venantdothan.orgBob Willis (Greystone) rwillis@troy.edu   Ru dy Heintzelman (FUMC) rudy@fumcdothan.orgMary Earnest (Harve st) mearnest@sw.rr.comJanet Stone (Harvest) jstone@sw.rr.com   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120122T050000Z DTEND:20120123T045900Z SUMMARY:Dothan District Conference and Leadership Training DESCRIPTION:The Dothan District will have its district training and meet ing on January 22, 2012 at Covenant United Methodist Church beginning at 2:00 p.m..  All clergy and lay leadership are e ncouraged to attend.PPR, Trustees, Finance & Stewardship, Se nior Adults,  Ministering to Military,  and Secretary - The face of the Church classes will be offered.  Youth and Child ren training will be offered as well.  Opening worship will be provided by The Lamb Family from Tuscaloosa.Attached belo w is a brochure.For more information, please contact the Dot han District Office 334-792-4259. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120122T050000Z DTEND:20120123T045900Z SUMMARY:Elizabeth Belcher Cheek Concert Series DESCRIPTION:Four acclaimed musicians in piano, violin, cello and clarine t will unite to perform for the Elizabeth Belcher Cheek Conc ert Series at Huntingdon College Sunday, January 22, at 3:00 p.m. in the College's Ligon Chapel, Flowers Hall. Trio +, m ade up of renowned pianist and Huntingdon assistant professo r of music Vadim Serebryany and long-time friends and musica l collaborators violinist Yosuke Kawasaki and cellist Wolfra m Koessel, will be joined by University of Alabama clarinet ist Osiris Molina for the concert, "A Prayer for Mercy," in which they will perform Olivier Messiaen's Quatuor pour la f in du temps (A Quartet for the End of Time). The concert se ries, endowed by Mr. Ben F. Cheek III and his family in memo ry of his first wife, a Huntingdon alumna, is free and open to the public. Nearby parking is available in the Smith Mus ic Building and Narrow Lane Road lots on the Huntingdon camp us. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120122T050000Z DTEND:20120123T045900Z SUMMARY:Mobile District Conference DESCRIPTION:The Mobile District Office will have its district conference on January 22, 2012 at Grace United Methodist Church.  The conference will begin at 3:00 p.m.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120122T050000Z DTEND:20120123T045900Z SUMMARY:Stephen Hill In Concert at Gulf Shores UMC DESCRIPTION:Gulf Shores United Methodist Church presents Gaither Homecom ing Artist and Christian Singer/Songwriter Stephen Hill in c oncert Sunday, January 22, 2012 at 6:30 pm in the church san ctuary.  Admission is $10.  All proceeds benefit the music m inistry at the church.  Tickets are on sale in Building B ne xt door to the auditorium (Winn Dixie Shopping Center) from 10 am to 2 pm Monday thru Friday or at the door prior to the concert.For more information, call 251-968-2411 or visit ww w.gulfshoresumc.org.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120124T050000Z DTEND:20120125T045900Z SUMMARY:Snowbird Coffee Time at Gulf Shores UMC DESCRIPTION:Gulf Shores United Methodist Church will host their weekly S nowbird Coffee Time beginning January 24, 2012.  Coffee will begin at 9:00 am in the Building B auditorium (located in t he Winn-Dixie Shopping Center). The Sandspur Band will perfo rm for the Snowbirds. Each week will be a different musical guest.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120125T050000Z DTEND:20120126T045900Z SUMMARY:Strengthening The Black Church for the 21st Century (SBC21) Meeting DESCRIPTION:Strengthening The Black Church for the 21st Century (SBC21) task force will have it's next meeting on Wednesday, January 25, 2012 at the Conference Resource Center in Montgomery, A L..  The meeting will being promptly at 11 am.  Lunch will b e served.We will be joined by Fred Allen, National Director of SBC 21.  Our purpose will be to finalize plans for the SB C 21 Convocation that will be held August 9- 11, 2012 at Cap itol Heights United Methodist Church in Montgomery, AL.Pleas e RSVP your attendance in order to get a good head count for lunch.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120126T050000Z DTEND:20120127T045900Z SUMMARY:Conference Board of Discipleship Meeting DESCRIPTION:The Conference Board of Discipleship will have their quarter ly meeting on Thursday, January 26, 2012 at St. James UMC in Montgomery, AL.  The meeting will begin promptly at 11am.  Lunch will be provided.  Please RSVP your attendance in orde r to get a head count for lunch. At the meeting will be deve loping our reports that are to be presented at the 2012 Annu al Conference Session coming up in June.  We will also take care of other business.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120126T050000Z DTEND:20120127T045900Z SUMMARY:Preaching Excellence: A Learning Community DESCRIPTION:Dr. Herb Sadler and The Academy for Congregational Excellenc e presents "Preaching Excellence: A Learning Community" led by Dr. Hays McKay. The first session is January 26 and subse quent sessions dates will be decided by the learning communi ty group and leader. The group will meet monthly for a total of ten sessions in 2012 breaking for two months off in the summer. Tuition is $200 and can be paid in installments if n ecessary. A maximum of twelve persons will be accepted into the group. If you would like to apply, please e-mail Sandy G utting at sgutting@mchsi.com or call 850.430.4300.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120127T050000Z DTEND:20120129T045900Z SUMMARY:Canceled - COSROW Retreat DESCRIPTION:The COSROW Retreat has been canceled.  A January 2013 is bei ng planned.  More details are forthcoming.* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *  * * * * * * * * * * * * * *  Details from the previous plann ed event:The Commission on the Status and Role of Women (COS ROW) will have their 2012 annual event “Extraordinary Women Doing Ordinary Things”.  The event will be held January 27 - 28, 2012 at Blue Lake Assembly.  Below is a flyer/brochure.   Click here for a registration form.  Keynote speaker and f acilitator will be Sandra Ruby.Schedule:Friday: Session I 7: 15 - 8:30 pm Shiphrah and PuahSaturday: Session II 8:45—10:0 0 am Jocebed and MiriamSession III 10:15—noon Pharoah’s Daug hterLunchSession IV 12:25— 3:15 pm CALL TO ACTIONIf you have any questions or need more details, please contact Ruth Ann Powers rall@ctvea.net   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120127T050000Z DTEND:20120129T045900Z SUMMARY:Lay Speaker Training Hosted By The Baypines District DESCRIPTION:The Baypines District will host a Lay Speaker Training Janua ry 27 - 28, 2012 at Fairhope United Methodist Church.  Basic and advanced courses will be offered.  Cost is $60 which in cludes materials and food.  Attached below is a brochure and registration form.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120127T050000Z DTEND:20120130T045900Z SUMMARY:Meltdown 2012 DESCRIPTION:Every year youth and adults alike come to experience Christ in a new way through outstanding worship and speakers, and t hrough fellowship with one another.  Whether you are a Meltd own veteran or this is your first year, we hope that you wil l join us, as we seek after our faith!!  Meltdown is a retre at designed for youth grades 6th -12th and their adult leade rs and will be held  January 27 - 29, 2012 in Panama City Be ach, FL.  Below is a registration form.  Register now to get the early bird rate. Great Deal Rate - before Thanksgivi ng- $109 Good Deal Rate - before Christmas- $119 The D eal Rate - after Christmas- $129Guest Speaker will be Mark O estreicher.  Mark is an author, speaker, consultant and coac h living in San Diego, CA.  His passion, experience and expe rtise is anything to do with youth and young adults, particu larly in the context of the church.  Worship Leader is Danie l Bashta. For more information, please contact Rev. Stuart W orth (850) 476-5818 .        END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120127T050000Z DTEND:20120130T045900Z SUMMARY:REVIVE 2012 DESCRIPTION:Revive is a camp for young people who want to be challenged and renewed in their walk with Christ!  Our main worship mee tings focus us through music and teaching... we also have cr eative classes, rec activities, and the Bring Your Band stag e and cafes for fun hang times!  Revive will be held January 27 - 29, 2012 at Blue Lake.  Click here for more informatio n.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120128T050000Z DTEND:20120129T045900Z SUMMARY:Baby Boomer Ministry Seminar DESCRIPTION:Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church (Birmingham, AL) is o ffering a Baby Boomer Ministry seminar on January 28, 2012 w ith Rick Gentzler.  Rick is the Director of Older Adult Mini stries and Center for Aging at the United Methodist General Board of Discipleship.  A brochure with detailed information is attached below.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120128T050000Z DTEND:20120129T045900Z SUMMARY:Conference CORE Team Meeting DESCRIPTION:The Conference CORE Team will meet on January 28, 2012.  Loc ation is Blue Lake.  Gathering is at 9:00 a.m.; Business beg ins promptly at 9:30 a.m.The Ministry Fruitfulness Task Forc e will be present.Lunch will be served.  Please rsvp your at tendance.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120128T050000Z DTEND:20120129T045900Z SUMMARY:The Marketplace Bazaar at Gulf Shores UMC DESCRIPTION:Gulf Shores United Methodist Church’s United Methodist Women are sponsoring The Marketplace Bazaar on Saturday, January 28 at the Building B Auditorium (located in the Winn-Dixie S hopping Center) from 9am to 3pm.  A Chicken-Sausage Gumbo lu nch will be served from 11am to 2pm; tickets are $8 per pers on. Come shop for baked goods, crafts, frozen casseroles, or at the boutique or decorator’s corner, and more. And don’t miss the silent auction!   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120128T050000Z DTEND:20120129T045900Z SUMMARY:UMVIM Team Leader Training - Brewton FUMC DESCRIPTION:REGISTRATION CLOSEDInterested in leading a mission team, but don't know where to start?  There will be an UMVIM (United Methodist Volunteers in Mission) team leader training on Sat urday, January 28, 2012 beginning at 9 am and ending at 4 pm  at Brewton First UMC. Participants will receive a wealth of information on preparing an UMVIM team for service, includi ng such topics as effective project selection, spiritual dev elopment, cultural sensitivity for teams, logistics, and fin ance.Register now using the orange button above. Included in the $35 registration fee is the UMVIM Team Leader Handbook and lunch.  This training is open to all United Methodists a nd satisfies training requirements for leading an UMVIM team .  For more information, contact Susan Hunt at susan@awfumc. org or 334-356-8014.  Participating in the training does not obligate you to lead a team, but will help you understand t he fundamentals of team leadership and will enrich any futur e Mission experiences you have. You will also gain ideas on places around the world where you can serve. This training i s also great for teams staying in our conference and in the USA. Maybe you do not think you are qualified to lead a team , or have doubts about your ability to lead a team. Answerin g God's call to mission is not about feeling equipped or wor thy; instead it is about trusting the God who called you to use you as you are. Participating in God's Mission is the ca ll of every Christian. Your willingness to serve can and wil l transform your life, the lives of those who go with you, a nd your congregation as well. United Methodist Volunteers In Mission can be a vital tool in helping you and your church be more effective as partners in God's Mission to a hurting and broken world, whether you take a team down the street to your own community or across the globe. This training sessi on will be led by Rev. Alan Gantzhorn. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120129T050000Z DTEND:20120130T045900Z SUMMARY:Baypines District Conference DESCRIPTION:The Baypines District will have their annual District Confer ence on January 29, 2012.  All clergy and laity are encourag ed to attend.For more information about the conference, plea se contact the district office 251-580-2021.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120129T050000Z DTEND:20120130T045900Z SUMMARY:Montgomery-Opelika District Conference and Leader Academy DESCRIPTION:The Montgomery-Opelika District Conference and Leader Academ y will be held Sunday, January 29, 2012 at Aldersgate United Methodist Church.  All Pastors and local church representat ive are expected to attend.  You may register for this event   online at The Montgomery Districts website.  If you have a ny questions please email Ashley Epler at  mtopds@knology.ne t or call 33-239-7329.      END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120129T050000Z DTEND:20120130T045900Z SUMMARY:Reggie & Lady Love Smith In Concert at Gulf Shores UMC DESCRIPTION:Gulf Shores United Methodist Church presents Gaither Homecom ing Artist Reggie & Lady Love Smith in concert Sunday, Janua ry 29, 2012 at 6:30 pm in the church sanctuary.  Admission i s $10.  Proceeds benefit the music ministry at the church.Ti ckets will go on sale January 23rd in the Building B auditor ium (Winn Dixie Shopping Center) from 10 am to 2 pm Monday t hrough Friday or at the door prior to the concert.For more i nformation, call 251-968-2411 or visit www.gulfshoresumc.org .   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120130T050000Z DTEND:20120131T045900Z SUMMARY:Dothan District Pastor Appreciation Banquet DESCRIPTION:The Dothan District will host a Pastor Appreciation Banquet on January 30, 2012 at First United Methodist Church, Dothan .  The banquet will begin at 6:30 p.m.  For more information , please contact the district office 334.792.4259.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120130T050000Z DTEND:20120131T045900Z SUMMARY:Pastor Appreciation Banquet - DO District DESCRIPTION:The Dothan District will host a Pastor Appreciation Banquet on January 30, 2012 at First United Methodist Church, Dothan .  The banquet will begin at 6:30 p.m.  For more information , please contact the district office 334.792.4259.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120202T050000Z DTEND:20120203T045900Z SUMMARY:Board of Higher Ed and Campus Ministry Meeting DESCRIPTION:The Board of Higher Ed and Campus Ministry will meet on Febr uary 2, 2012 at Huntingdon College.  The meeting will be hel d in the Stallworth Dining Room of Huntingdon College and wi ll begin promptly at 10:00 a.m.  Lunch will be served.  Plea se RSVP your attendance in order to get a good head count. A fter lunch, all Wesley Directors are encouraged to convene a nd talk about potential future ministry partnerships as you support one another.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120202T050000Z DTEND:20120203T045900Z SUMMARY:Ministry Security Training DESCRIPTION:Ever thought what you would do in these situations?  A child goes missing from the children’s department;  A violent or unstable person enters and disrupts your place of worship; A person becomes seriously ill during service; A non-custodia l parent takes their child from a classroom; Your receptioni st is confronted by a hostile person; A person shows up at c hurch with a gun.  Are you prepared?Daphne United Methodist Church will host a Ministry Security Training on February 2, 2012 beginning at 9:00 a.m.  Cost is $149 which includes lu nch.Click HERE to register.  .5 CEU credits will be awarded. This conference is essential for anyone who actively works i n a ministry organization or who is specifically charged wit h the safety and security of the people within a ministry or ganization. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120203T050000Z DTEND:20120206T045900Z SUMMARY:2012 Confirmation Retreat "With Passion and Purpose" DESCRIPTION:The Conference Confirmation Retreat will be held February 3 - 5, 2012 at Blue Lake.  This event is a weekend filled with worship, discipleship groups, fun, fellowship and opportuni ties to connect with new friends. The event is for confirmat ion classes of ALL sizes, 1 to 100. 6th grade (and other mid high) confirmation students will find this retreat an oppor tunity to become more aware of their beliefs and how they in tend to live them out. The weekend includes conversation wit h Bishop Paul L. Leeland, discipleship groups centering on p rayers & presence, witness, gifts & services, experiencing a labyrinth, worship arts and creative worship, a bonfire and more.Cost for the weekend is $95 per person before January 9, 2012 ($110 after January 9).  1 adult per 5 youth please.   No refunds after January 20, 2012. Listed below is informa tion you will find helpful for the weekend:1. All adults mus t have a completed Affidavit of Background check. The form i s below. Please check and make sure all the adults coming wi th you have received a background check (if you have questio ns regarding this, please feel free to contact me). The Affi davits will need to be turned in on Friday evening when you check in.2. All participants must have a health form and a h old harmless agreement, this includes adults. If something s hould happen to an adult we need to be able to assist them. Both forms are below. It does not have to be notarized. If y ou have one your church utilizes that is great. You will be holding onto these forms. If something should happen to one of your group, you are the one who accompanies them to the h ospital.3. For those of you who requested to be housed at Do gwood, you need to make sure you bring all your linens and t oiletries.4. For those of you who requested to be housed at Oakwood, you will need to bring toiletries and extra blanket s. The beds will already be made up when you get there.5. Ch eck-in will be in the lobby of Vickers Gym (the big gym). Pl ease do not bring your whole group in the lobby. When you co me in, you will receive your housing information, a schedule and name tags. You can then get your group settled. We will begin check-in at 7:00 p.m. (please make sure your group ha s eaten before arrival). Worship begins at 8 p.m. in Vickers Gym.6. Typical Blue Lake things to bring, appropriate cloth ing for weather, Bible, flashlight, money for camp store and Sunday morning offering.Click HERE for a Hold Harmless Agre ement.  Click HERE for a Medical Release Form.  Click HERE f or a Background Check Affidavit.Questions about the event?  Please contact Rev. Paula Roane, Trinity UMC Fort Walton Bea ch, Fl. 850-862-4169.Questions about online registration?  P lease contact Traci Herndon 334-356-8014 traci@awfumc.orgBel ow is a downloadable flyer.    END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120203T050000Z DTEND:20120205T045900Z SUMMARY:The Academy For Ministries With Children DESCRIPTION:The Academy For Ministries With Children is designed for per sons seeking training in children's ministry.  The academy o ffers local church workers paraprofessional certification th rough a two-year cycle of courses.  The courses are develope d to affirm and strengthen the passion and love for ministry through a holistic and theological understanding of childre n and children's ministry.Participants will be required to r ead two books prior to the beginning of each course, and com plete an assignment to be handed in at each class.  Particip ants will receive a syllabus upon compleion of registration.   In order to receive certification, all eight courses must be completed.  However, individual courses may be taken.  Th e academy does not offer academic credits.Cost is $100 per c lass which includes meals, supplies and resources.  Scholars hips are available.  Participants are responsible for the pu rchase of books and lodging.To register, please contact Leig h Meekins leigh.meekins@gmail.com.  Please note any special dietary needs.Below is the Year-B Course Schedule:Just The B ibleDr. Jason BordersSeptember 30 - October 1, 2011Montgomer y, ALTeaching TeachersRev. Leigh MeekinsNovember 4 - 5, 2011 Woodland United Methodist ChurchThe Other Side Of The ChildR ev. Melanie GordonFebruary 3 - 4, 2012Montgomery, ALHow To B e A LeaderLaura SissonApril 13 - 14, 2012Birmingham, AL  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120205T050000Z DTEND:20120213T045900Z SUMMARY:Religious Arts Festival hosted by First United Methodist Chu rch, Montgomery DESCRIPTION:First United Methodist Church of Montgomery will host a Reli gious Arts Festival February 5 – 12, 2012.  The purpose of t he Religious Arts Festival is to provide opportunities for e xpressing our spirituality through the arts.  The community is invited to participate in this annual series of events in which both the presenters and the participants are enriched as artists share gifts of music, visual art, and drama.Belo w is a list of presenters and participants:A JAZZ VESPERSPre sented by The Adult EnsembleFebruary 5, 4:00 p.m.AN ORGAN CO NCERTIsabelle DemersFebruary 10, 7:00 p.m.A MORNING OF ARTAr t Show, Church Tours, and Arts Event for ChildrenFebruary 11 , 9:30 – 12 noonA DRAMATIC MONOLOGUE“Joseph, Father to the S tep-son”By John MaxwellFebruary 12, 4:00 p.m.Everyone is inv ited.For more information about the event, please contact Ja ck Horner 334.834.8990.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120207T050000Z DTEND:20120211T045900Z SUMMARY:Spiritual Direction Training DESCRIPTION:How can I stir the longing for spiritual formation in my con gregation?Where can I study and learn with others about the spiritual disciplines that take me deeper into my faith jour ney?What path would lead me to learn and hone the skills of spiritual direction?Click here for more information   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120209T050000Z DTEND:20120210T045900Z SUMMARY:Conference Council and Finance and Administration Meeting (C FA) DESCRIPTION:The Conference Council and Finance and Administration (CFA) will meet on February 9, 2012 beginning at 10:00 a.m.  The m eeting will be held at the Conference Resource Center (100 I nterstate Park Drive, Suite 120, Montgomery, AL 36109).  For more information, please contact Frank Dunnewind 1-888-873- 3127 or 334-274-2051.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120210T050000Z DTEND:20120212T045900Z SUMMARY:Basic Preparation For Parish Nurses DESCRIPTION:What is Parish Nursing? Parish nursing, also known as Congre gational Nursing or Faith Community Nursing, is a specialty practice of professional nursing and a professional model of health ministry that focuses on whole person health promoti on and disease prevention from a faith perspective.   The Id a V Moffett School of Nursing at Samford University, Alabama WMU, and Baptist Health System are hosting a Basic Preparat ion For Parish Nurses February 10 - 11, 2012 and March 2 - 4 , 2012 at Shocco Springs Conference Center in Talladega, Ala bama.  You must attend BOTH weekends to complete the course. There are seven identified roles of a parish nurse:• Integra tor of faith and health (mission)• Health educator• Personal health counselor• Referral agent• Coordinator of volunteers • Developer of support groups• Health advocateThere are a va riety of organizational frameworks for the ministry of paris h nursing practice.  Many Parish Nurses serve in churches as volunteers, while others are paid staff members (part-time or full-time).  Institutions, such as hospitals, health care systems, and/or universities, also collaborate with churche s to have parish nurses (paid or unpaid) serve in congregati ons.  Regardless of the organizational framework, the parish nurse is accountable to the Nurse Practice Act of the state he/she is practicing, as well as the Scope and Standards of Parish Nursing (American Nurses Association & Health Minist ries Association, Inc., 1998).Parish nursing does not embrac e the medical model of care or invasive practices such as bl ood drawing, medical treatments, or medication administratio n.  The International Parish Nurse Resource Center is a wond erful resource for information about parish nursing.  Their website is www.ipnrc.parishnurses.org  Below is a flyer to t he upcoming event.The course is limited to 20 people.  Regis tration deadline is February 6, 2012.Continuing Education: 3 1.8 (ABN) contact hours and 26.5 ANCC/ASNA hours of nursing continuing education will be awarded at the completion of th e course by NurCE, an ABN approved provider of continuing ed ucation for RNs and LPNs (provider #ABNP0004).  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120210T050000Z DTEND:20120213T045900Z SUMMARY:Elementary Winter Retreat 2012 DESCRIPTION:Elementary Winter Retreat 2012 February 10 - 12, 2012 is for 3rd-  5th graders.  The retreat will be held at Blue Lake.   This year we will discover the Secrets of the Universe with our special guests The Lads.Winter Retreat is a great chanc e to check out camp for the first time or get your Blue Lake fix before the summer comes around again. The early bird di scount ends December 5th so don’t wait! Click here to regist er and for more details.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120212T050000Z DTEND:20120213T045900Z SUMMARY:The Demopolis District will host a "Day of Methodist Singing " DESCRIPTION:The Demopolis District will host a "Day of Methodist Singing " on February 12, 2012 at Linden United Methodist Church beg inning at 3:00 p.m.  Everyone is invited to attend.  For mor e information, please contact the district office. 334-289-0 519.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120213T050000Z DTEND:20120215T045900Z SUMMARY:Clergy Retirement Seminar DESCRIPTION:The Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits, in conj unction with the Conference Board of Ordained Ministry, will host a Clergy Retirement Seminar in Pensacola, FL on Februa ry 13 and 14, 2012.  The seminar will be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.  The seminar begins at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, Feb ruary 13 and ends at noon on Tuesday, February 14.Active cle rgy 50 years and older and their spouses are encouraged to a ttend.  Participation is limited to the first twenty (20) cl ergy persons and their spouses.  Pre-registration is require d.Below is a brochure.Questions?  Please contact Frank Dunne wind frank@awfumc.org 1-888-873-3127.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120217T050000Z DTEND:20120219T045900Z SUMMARY:Lay Speaking Basic Course for Youth DESCRIPTION:Lay Speaking Basic Course – Youth Only!! The Pensacola Distr ict Committee on Lay Speaking will offer a basic lay speakin g course for youth only February 17-18, 2012.  All youth age s 14-24 are welcome to attend with the approval of their pas tor. This course lays the framework for leadership in Lay Sp eaking Ministry.  During this course, youth will explore top ics such as servant and spiritual leadership, caring ministr ies, basic communication skills, sharing your faith, and lea ding meetings. This course will enhance their knowledge and build their skills as a leader.Cost is $50 which includes te xtbooks, Friday supper / Saturday lunch and snacks.  Space i s limited.  Register now by downloading the form below.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120217T050000Z DTEND:20120219T045900Z SUMMARY:Youth Lay Speaking Training at FWB DESCRIPTION:Greetings in the mighty name of King Jesus!  Here's an exce llent opportunity for your spiritually mature youth to exp lore the call God has put on their lives!The Pensacola Dist rict Committee on Lay Speaking is offering the basic lay spe aking course for youth only on  February 17-18, 2012, at Ft Walton Beach First UMC. Click here for the registration flie r.  In this training event we explore together topics such as servant and spiritual leadership, caring ministries, ba sic communication skills, and sharing our faith. This cour se is a fantastic way to help your spiritually mature yout h learn how to build skills as a leader in your youth grou p and in your church community!  Please ... prayerfully cons ider sending those youth from your church who would benefi t from this training, and let's grow God's kingdom family e ven more!Have questions?  Need more info?  Feel free to co ntact me at this email address, or by phone at (850) 586-5 566.  Look forward to hearing from you!Kurt Burgess, Direc torPensacola District Lay Speaking Committeewww.gbgm-umc.org /pcolalayspmin/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120218T050000Z DTEND:20120219T045900Z SUMMARY:UMVIM Team Leader Training - Panama City FUMC DESCRIPTION:  Interested in leading a mission team, but don't know where to start?  There will be an UMVIM (United Methodist Volunte ers in Mission) team leader training on Saturday, February 1 8, 2012 beginning at 9 am and ending at 4 pm at First UMC, P anama City, FL. Participants will receive a wealth of inform ation on preparing an UMVIM team for service, including such topics as effective project selection, spiritual developmen t, cultural sensitivity for teams, logistics, and finance.Re gister now using the orange button above. Included in the $3 5 registration fee is the UMVIM Team Leader Handbook and lun ch.  This training is open to all United Methodists and sati sfies training requirements for leading an UMVIM team.  For more information, contact Susan Hunt at susan@awfumc.org or 334-356-8014.  Participating in the training does not obliga te you to lead a team, but will help you understand the fund amentals of team leadership and will enrich any future Missi on experiences you have. You will also gain ideas on places around the world where you can serve. This training is also great for teams staying in our conference and in the USA. Ma ybe you do not think you are qualified to lead a team, or ha ve doubts about your ability to lead a team. Answering God's call to mission is not about feeling equipped or worthy; in stead it is about trusting the God who called you to use you as you are. Participating in God's Mission is the call of e very Christian. Your willingness to serve can and will trans form your life, the lives of those who go with you, and your congregation as well. United Methodist Volunteers In Missio n can be a vital tool in helping you and your church be more effective as partners in God's Mission to a hurting and bro ken world, whether you take a team down the street to your o wn community or across the globe. This training session will be led by Rev. Alan Gantzhorn.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120219T050000Z DTEND:20120220T045900Z SUMMARY:VBS Training for Operation Overboard DESCRIPTION:Vacation Bible School (VBS) Training for Operation Overboard will be held Saturday, February 19, 2012 at Whitfield Unite d Methodist Church 2:00 - 4:00 PM.  Please register with Con ference Office by emailing Traci Herndon traci@awfumc.org.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120220T050000Z DTEND:20120221T045900Z SUMMARY:Preaching Excellence: A Learning Community DESCRIPTION:The Academy for Congregational Excellence is designed to inc rease effectiveness in clergy and laity by sharpening skills and increasing competencies.  The Academy will begin sessio ns on Preaching Excellence: A Learning Community.  The first session will be held at Frazer Memorial UMC (Montgomery, AL 0 and will begin February 20, 2012, 9 a.m. - 12 NOON.  The l eader/teacher will be Dr. Tim Thompson (Frazer Memorial UMC) .    Subsequent session dates will be decided by the learnin g community group and Dr. Thompson.  Cost is $200.  This can be paid in installments if necessary.  No more than 12 pers ons will be accepted.  Apply now by contacting Sandy Gutting 850.430.4300 or sgutting@mchsi.com.      END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120221T050000Z DTEND:20120222T045900Z SUMMARY:Safe Sanctuaries Training Presented by Author Joy Melton DESCRIPTION:On February 21, 2012, First United Methodist Church of Pensa cola will host Rev. Joy Melton, author of the United Methodi st Church’s Safe Sanctuary Policy on protection of children, youth and vulnerable adults.  This seminar is to help devel op policies and procedures for reducing the risk of abuse In churches and organizations.  Rev. Melton has worked with hu ndreds of congregations and organizations to help develop co mprehensive abuse prevention policies and procedures for imp lementation in ministries involving children, youth, and adu lts.Two training opportunities, lasting two hours each, will take place on February 21 at 1:00 PM and again at 6:00 PM. Childcare is available during the evening session only.The s eminars will take place in Wesley Abbey on the campus of Fir st United Methodist Church of Pensacola.  First United Metho dist Church of Pensacola is located at 6 East Wright Street on the corner of Wright and Palafox Street in beautiful down town Pensacola.The seminars are free of charge and open to t he public. All staff and volunteers of organizations, church es and non-profits that deal with children, youth or vulnera ble adults are encouraged to attend.Rev. Melton is a United Methodist clergyperson and an attorney. She holds a Bachelor 's Degree in Christian Education from Pfeiffer College in No rth Carolina; a Master of Arts degree from Scarritt College in Nashville, Tennessee; and a Law Degree from Emory Univers ity in Atlanta, Georgia.  She is a partner in the Atlanta la w firm of Hinds & Melton, LLC. She is also the author of Saf e Sanctuaries: Reducing the Risk of Child Abuse in the Churc h and Safe Sanctuaries for Youth: Reducing the Risk of Abuse in Youth Ministries. In her books and training seminars she defines abuse and its many types, common indicators, legal requirements for reporting abuse, and also provides guidelin es for screening and hiring workers and volunteers. In addit ion she outlines basic procedures of safe ministry with chil dren and youth and outlines a congregational plan for respon ding to allegations of abuse.You will not want to miss this important training event for your church or organization.Bel ow is a downloadable flyer.If you would like more informatio n about this topic, or to schedule an interview, please call Jeb Hunt at 850/748-1257 or email Jeb at jebhunt@pensacolaf irstchurch.com.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120222T050000Z DTEND:20120223T045900Z SUMMARY:Fair Labor Standards Act For Church Staffing Seminar DESCRIPTION:As a part of the Alabama-West Florida Annual Conference’s co ntinuing offering of resources to local church leaders, both clergy and lay, Rev. Joy T. Melton, author of Safe Sanctuar ies for Ministers (2009) will present a  Fair Labor Standard s Act seminar February 22, 2012 from 9:30a.m.until 12 noon a t  Pensacola First United Methodist Church.  The seminar wil l be filled with information on a wide variety of employment practices.  Of particular interest to churches will be exem pt/non-exempt employees issues that are important for every church to understand.Cost is $5.00 per person which includes lunch.  In the seminar participants will learn key statutor y provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act applicable to c hurches, learn key definitions for exempt and non-exempt emp loyee classification, and hear best practices for hiring and supervising staff members.  Participants will be able to up date the administration procedures for their congregations a nd strengthen the church’s ability to deliver top quality mi nistry.  This will be an interactive session with time inclu ded for questions and collaboration among the participants a nd Rev. Melton.  By the conclusion of the session, participa nts will have received tools that are current, cost effectiv e, and simple to implement for the ongoing stewardship of th e congregation’s ministries.Rev. Joy T. Melton, is the Chief Resource Officer of United Methodist Insurance , the non-pr ofit property insurance company for United Methodist ministr ies. In this role, she consults with local churches, distric ts, and annual conferences, on a wide variety of employment issues.  She also provides training for church leaders on th ese issues as well as on insurance issues, Safe Sanctuaries, and the complaint procedures found in the Book of Disciplin e.  Rev. Melton is the author of Safe Sanctuaries Reducing t he Risk of Abuse in the Church for Children and Youth (2008) and Safe Sanctuaries for Ministers (2009), available throug h www.UpperRoom.org.  Rev. Melton is a graduate of Pfeiffer University, 1977, and a Trustee of the University.  She is a lso a graduate of Scarritt College, 1982, and Emory Universi ty School of Law, 1993.  Rev. Melton is a clergy member of t he North Georgia Annual Conference and an attorney.Deadline for registration is Friday, February 17, 2012. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120223T050000Z DTEND:20120224T045900Z SUMMARY:Pastoral Counseling, Care, and Training (PCCT) Meeting DESCRIPTION:Pastoral Counseling, Care, and Training (PCCT) will meet on Februrary 23, 2012 at the Office of Connectional Ministries.   The meeting will begin at 10:00 a.m.  For more information , please contact Zanatta Hagan umc@pcctawf.org.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120224T050000Z DTEND:20120226T045900Z SUMMARY:Lay Speaker Training Offered By Montgomery-Opelika District DESCRIPTION:The Montgomery-Opelika District is offering lay speaking tra ining February 24 - 25, 2012.  The training will be held at Mt. Zion United Methodist Church (Smiths Station, AL).  Basi c and advanced courses will be offered.    Cost is $50.00 wh ich includes books, snacks, supper box, full breakfast and l unch.  Deadline to register is February 10 , 2012.  Below is a downloadable registration form.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120224T050000Z DTEND:20120226T045900Z SUMMARY:Third Annual Prayer and Missions Conference - Asbury UMC (Ma dison, AL) DESCRIPTION:Join Asbury United Methodist Church (Madison, AL) in the Thi rd Annual Prayer and Missions Conference February 24 and 25, 2012. The theme is Poured Out.  The image of “pouring” keep s us mindful that God had poured His new life into us that w e might pour our lives into the world He loves. Over 50 work shops will feature renowned speakers and cross-cultural work ers from all around the world.The cost is only $40 which cov ers two lunches and workshop materials.Click here to registe r.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120224T050000Z DTEND:20120226T045900Z SUMMARY:UMW Tapestry Retreat DESCRIPTION:The Conference United Methodist Women (UMW) will have their Tapestry Retreat on February 24 - 25, 2012 at Christ United Methodist Church in Mobile, AL.  We will share together in t imes of worship, learning, planning, dreaming, and in fellow ship of the Spirit.  It will be a time of celebrating the ma ny ways our lives are woven together with faith, hope and Lo ve in Action.Below is a downloadable brochure and registrati on form.This event is hosted by the Mobile District UMW   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120225T050000Z DTEND:20120226T045900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Disaster Response and ERT Training DESCRIPTION:United Methodist Disaster Response and ERT Training will be held at  Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church in Room 720 8 on Saturday, February 25, 2012 from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm.  C ost is $22 per person pre-pay or payable at the door.    Dea dline to register is February 20, 2012.  Space is limited an d offered on first come first serveHow to register?  Send Kr is Johnson kris@frazerumc.org  your name, address, home chur ch, email, best contact phone number and t-shirt size. Instr uctor will be Rev. Chris Perry, Montgomery – Prattville Dist rict Disaster Response Coordinator.  Every person receiving an ERT badge upon completion of the training is required to have a background check.  If you have a recent one through w ork, just provide a letter of confirmation from your HR depa rtment.  If you have one through Frazer, let us know so we c an provide verification.  If you need a background check, Kr is can provide an application so it can be completed before the training.If you have any questions, please contact Kris Johnson 334.272.8622. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120226T050000Z DTEND:20120227T045900Z SUMMARY:1st Sunday in Lent DESCRIPTION:In the Christian tradition, Lent is the period of the liturg ical year from Ash Wednesday to Easter. The traditional purp ose of Lent is the preparation of the believer – through pra yer, repentance, almsgiving and self-denial – for the annual commemoration during Holy Week of the Death and Resurrectio n of Jesus Christ.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120226T050000Z DTEND:20120227T045900Z SUMMARY:Taize Sing-In hosted by First United Methodist Church, Montg omery DESCRIPTION:You are invited to join members of the First United Methodis t Church, Montgomery choir and instrumentalists for a Taize Sing-In service in the auditorium of Cloverdale School.  The service will begin at 6 p.m.  This will be a great chance t o experience this unique worship service.  Contact Jack Horn er (834-8990) for more details.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120229T050000Z DTEND:20120303T045900Z SUMMARY:Knit, Pray, Love DESCRIPTION:Come and share the fellowship, passion, and spirituality of Prayer Shawl Ministry.  Knit, Pray, Love 2012 will be held F ebruary 29 - March 2, 2012 at Blue Lake.  There will be time for instruction, worship, rest and growth as we  together e xplore the amazing gifts that go into our crafts.  In additi on to Leslie Cooper and Minta McDavid, this year we will be joined by Dr. Roberta C. Bondi, author and Professor Emeritu s of Church History, Candler School of Theology, current own er of sheep and enthusiast of sheep and people.  She will re flect on the nature of both and the extravagant love our “Sh epherd” has for us all.Register online at www.bluelakecamp.c om or download a registration form below.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120301T050000Z DTEND:20120302T045900Z SUMMARY:Conf. Board of Advocacy and Ethnic Ministries DESCRIPTION:The next meeting of the Conference Board of Advocacy and Eth nic MInistries beginning at 10:30 a.m.Rev. Dunford Cole, cha irperson END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120302T050000Z DTEND:20120305T045900Z SUMMARY:Power of Father’s Love DESCRIPTION:Dauphin Island United Methodist Church is blessed to host Tr isha Frost and the “Power of Father’s Love” event March 2 - 4, 2012.  This weekend will both deepen your own experience and show you how to share His love with others.  An intimate relationship with Heavenly Father is foundational to a sust ained Kingdom life and supernatural power. The cost for the weekend is $25.00.  Sessions are Friday at 7:00PM; Saturday at 10:00AM and 2:00PM;  and both services on Sunday.  CEU’s are available. Call (251-367-1024) to register or for more i nformation.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120303T050000Z DTEND:20120304T045900Z SUMMARY:Prayer Conference with Dr. Terry Teykl DESCRIPTION:Dr. Terry Teykl will be at Navarre United Methodist Church f or Prayer Encounter: Invite Christ to Calm Your Storms on Sa turday,  March 3, 2012.  Registration and breakfast is at 8: 30am; the conference begin at 9am.  Cost is $20 per person.  Checks should be made out to NUMC.  Limited seating availab le.   Click here to register.In a time of economic uncertain ty there are a lot of fears about the present, not to mentio n the future.  With this in mind, we have asked Dr. Terry Te ykl of Renewal Ministries to come lead us, teach and encoura ge us to be a people of prayer.  Terry is an United Methodis t Pastor of the Texas Conference and author of many books in cluding, Pray the Price, Acts 29, Preyed On or Prayed For, O utside the Camp and Making Room to Pray, to name a few.  You can find out more about his ministry on his website: http:/ /www.renewalministries.com/ . Contact Rev. Rebecca Rutherfor d at Becca.Rutherford@navarreumc.org or 939-2028 for more in formation.  .5 CEUs will be offered for attendance at the co nference in addition to reading one of Terry Teykl's books.D o not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request s to God. ~Philippians 4:6  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120303T050000Z DTEND:20120304T045900Z SUMMARY:UMVIM Team Leader Training - Auburn UMC DESCRIPTION: Interested in leading a mission team, but don't know where to start?  There will be an UMVIM (United Methodist Voluntee rs in Mission) team leader training on Saturday, March 3, 20 12 beginning at 9 am and ending at 4 pm at Auburn UMC. Parti cipants will receive a wealth of information on preparing an UMVIM team for service, including such topics as effective project selection, spiritual development, cultural sensitivi ty for teams, logistics, and finance.Register now using the orange button above. Included in the $35 registration fee is the UMVIM Team Leader Handbook and lunch.  This training is open to all United Methodists and satisfies training requir ements for leading an UMVIM team.  For more information, con tact Susan Hunt at susan@awfumc.org or 334-356-8014.  Partic ipating in the training does not obligate you to lead a team , but will help you understand the fundamentals of team lead ership and will enrich any future Mission experiences you ha ve. You will also gain ideas on places around the world wher e you can serve. This training is also great for teams stayi ng in our conference and in the USA. Maybe you do not think you are qualified to lead a team, or have doubts about your ability to lead a team. Answering God's call to mission is n ot about feeling equipped or worthy; instead it is about tru sting the God who called you to use you as you are. Particip ating in God's Mission is the call of every Christian. Your willingness to serve can and will transform your life, the l ives of those who go with you, and your congregation as well . United Methodist Volunteers In Mission can be a vital tool in helping you and your church be more effective as partner s in God's Mission to a hurting and broken world, whether yo u take a team down the street to your own community or acros s the globe. This training session will be led by Glenn Glov er. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120305T050000Z DTEND:20120306T045900Z SUMMARY:Bishops Day Apart with Clergy DESCRIPTION:The Bishops Day Apart with all Alabama-West Florida Conferen ce clergy will be March 5, 2012 at St. James United Methodis t Church (Montgomery).  The event will begin at 9:00 a.m.  K eynote speaker will be Len Sweet.Currently the E. Stanley Jo nes Professor of Evangelism at Drew University, Madison, NJ and a Visiting Distinguished Professor at George Fox Univers ity, Portland, Oregon, Len has been Vice President of Academ ic Affairs and Dean of the Theological School at Drew Univer sity for five years,  Previous to Drew Len served for eleven years as President and Professor of Church History at Unite d Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio. Prior to 1985, Len was Provost of Colgate Rochester/Bexley Hall/Crozer Divinity Sc hool in Rochester, New York. Involved in leadership position s in the United Methodist Church, Len has been chosen to spe ak at various Jurisdictional and General Conferences as well as the 1996 World Methodist Congress in Rio de Janeiro. He also serves as a consultant to many of America's denominatio nal leaders and agencies. He is a member of the West Virgini a Annual Conference.    Author of more than two hundred arti cles, over twelve hundred published sermons, and dozens of b ooks, Len is the primary contributor (along with his wife Ka ren Elizabeth Rennie) to the web-based preaching resource, s ermons.com.  For nine years he and his wife wrote Homiletics , which became under their watch the premier preaching resou rce in North America. In 2005 Len introduced the first open- source preaching resource on the Web, wikiletics.com.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120308T050000Z DTEND:20120309T045900Z SUMMARY:Conference Council and Finance and Administration Meeting (C FA) DESCRIPTION:The Conference Council and Finance and Administration (CFA) will meet on March 8, 2012 beginning at 10:00 a.m.  The meet ing will be held at the Conference Resource Center (100 Inte rstate Park Drive, Suite 120, Montgomery, AL 36109).  For mo re information, please contact Frank Dunnewind 1-888-873-312 7 or 334-274-2051.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120309T050000Z DTEND:20120311T045900Z SUMMARY:Twenty-Eighth Holy Spirit Conference DESCRIPTION:You are Invited to attend the Twenty-Eighth Holy Spirit Conf erence Friday and Saturday, March 9 and 10, 2012 at beautifu l Blue Lake United Methodist Assembly Grounds.  The Celebrat ion is sponsored by the Lay Witness Board Members and is ope n to everyone regardless of church preference or affiliation .  A love offering will be received for our leaders.  Tapes or CDs of all sessions will beavailable.  A nursery with tra ined children and youth workers is provided at no cost.Regis tration is required.  Below is a downloadable registration f orm. Please contact Rev. Matt Albritton matt.albritton@yahoo .com for more information.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120311T050000Z DTEND:20120318T035900Z SUMMARY:Five Day Academy For Spiritual Formation DESCRIPTION:The Academy For Spiritual Formation is a time to fill the de ep spiritual hunger that characterizes many lives, an opport unity for intentional spiritual growth in a disciplined, acc epting community, a place where community silence enhances p ersonal prayer and reflection, a time of spiritual renewal a nd discovery through academic presentations, personal reflec tions and communal sharing, a sharing of spiritual growth in covenant groups, and a time for healing to continue.  This event is for both clergy and laity.The academy will be held March 11 - 17, 2012.Below is a downloadable brochure/flyer.F or more information, please click here.Sponsored by The Uppe r Room and The Spiritual Formation Team of the Florida Confe rence  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120313T040000Z DTEND:20120315T035900Z SUMMARY:Wesley Heirs Spring Meeting DESCRIPTION:The Wesley Heirs will have their Spring Meeting March 13 - 1 4, 2012 at Blue Lake.  Below is a downloadable flyer and reg istration form.  Any questions about the event please contac t Jean and Roy Sublette 334.273.9576.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120316T040000Z DTEND:20120319T035900Z SUMMARY:Lay Speaking Training Academy DESCRIPTION:The Conference Committee on Lay Speaking will offer a lay sp eaking training March 16 - 18, 2012 at Blue Lake.  Who shoul d attend?  Church Lay Leaders, Local Church Lay Speakers (LC LS), Certified Lay Speakers (CLS), and those interested in b ecoming Lay Speakers.  What is provided? Linens (sheets, bla nkets, pillow), 1 towel,1 washcloth, meals, limited snacks, coffee, and course materials.Attached below is a brochure wi th registration information.Registration deadline is March 6 , 2012.For more information, please contact Helen Edwards 1- 334-872-1927.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120318T040000Z DTEND:20120319T035900Z SUMMARY:One Great Hour Of Sharing DESCRIPTION:One Great Hour of Sharing enables the United Methodist Commi ttee on Relief (UMCOR) to live out its mission to alleviate human suffering.  UMCOR responds to natural or human made di sasters - those interruptions of such magnitude that they ov erwhelm a community's ability to recover on its own.Click he re for free offering materials/resources.  Click here for an overview of this Special Sunday.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120320T040000Z DTEND:20120321T035900Z SUMMARY:Conference Board of Trustees DESCRIPTION:The Conference Board of Trustees will meet at the Conference Office on March 20, 2012.  The meeting will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m.  For more information about the meeting, pleas e contact Mr. Frank Dunnewind 334.274.1051.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120323T040000Z DTEND:20120326T035900Z SUMMARY:UMW Spiritual Enrichment Retreat DESCRIPTION:The Conference United Methodist Women (UMW) will have their Spiritual Enrichment Retreat on March 23 - 25, 2012 at Blue Lake. This year's theme is “Friendship and Faith”.  The retr eat leader will be Rev. Dr. Laura Early.  Check in at Blue L ake begins Friday, March 23, 2011 at 4:00 p.m.  Dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m.Below is a downloadable registration a nd health form.  Each person must use a separate registratio n form.FINAL REGISTRATION DEADLINE:  MARCH 10, 2012.For addi tional information please call Georgette Griffith 334-289-82 73 or Sheila Hare 251-675-4202.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120331T040000Z DTEND:20120401T035900Z SUMMARY:Ultimate Training Event (UTE) - Training In Youth Ministry DESCRIPTION:The Ultimate Training Event (UTE) is a one-day conference sp onsored by the Alabama-West Florida Conference focused on pr oviding training in youth ministry.  Seminars throughout the day will focus on all aspects of youth ministry.  Churches are encouraged to send youth staff and volunteers to this in valuable day of training.  UTE will be held March 31, 2012 a t Christ United Methodist Church in Mobile, AL  Cost will be $20 per person.  Groups of four or more get one free.Keynot e Speaker will be Charles Harrison. Charles is a gifted comm unicator educated in youth ministry, theology, and adolescen ce. With experience leading groups large and small, Charles is perfect for this diverse training event.  Charles is part icularly passionate about a Wesleyan Model for ministry, and leads the center for Wesleyan renewal that focuses on apply ing Wesleyan theology to practical ministry.  He is currentl y the CEO and Executive Director of the Youthworker Movement /CMYX which seeks to be an association of youth workers who connect for mutual support and the sharing of resources.Sche dule:8 - 9 Registration9 - 10 General Session10:10 - 11 Mini -Seminars11:10 - 12:30 Seminars12:30 - 1:50 Lunch & Q & A (o ptional)2:00 - 3:20 Seminars3:30 - 4:30 Closing Session   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120412T040000Z DTEND:20120415T035900Z SUMMARY:INSPIRIT...A Ministry Event Designed For Adults 50+ DESCRIPTION:Inspirit...a time to rekindle, relax, and renew...April 12 - 14, 2012 at Blue Lake Assembly Grounds.  Cost is $120 per p erson.  Deadline to register is March 28, 2012.  Attached be low is a brochure and registration form.Registration deadlin e is March 28, 2012Sponsored by Alabama West Florida Confere nce Older Adult Task Force    END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120412T040000Z DTEND:20120413T035900Z SUMMARY:Right Start - An Event For All Moving Pastors DESCRIPTION:Right Start, An event for all moving pastors, will be held o n April 12, 2012 at Covenant United Methodist Church in Doth an.  For more information about this event, please contact t he Dothan District Office 334.792.4259.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120413T040000Z DTEND:20120415T035900Z SUMMARY:The Academy For Ministries With Children DESCRIPTION:The Academy For Ministries With Children is designed for per sons seeking training in children's ministry.  The academy o ffers local church workers paraprofessional certification th rough a two-year cycle of courses.  The courses are develope d to affirm and strengthen the passion and love for ministry through a holistic and theological understanding of childre n and children's ministry.Participants will be required to r ead two books prior to the beginning of each course, and com plete an assignment to be handed in at each class.  Particip ants will receive a syllabus upon compleion of registration.   In order to receive certification, all eight courses must be completed.  However, individual courses may be taken.  Th e academy does not offer academic credits.Cost is $100 per c lass which includes meals, supplies and resources.  Scholars hips are available.  Participants are responsible for the pu rchase of books and lodging.To register, please contact Leig h Meekins leigh.meekins@gmail.com.  Please note any special dietary needs.Below is the Year-B Course Schedule:Just The B ibleDr. Jason BordersSeptember 30 - October 1, 2011Montgomer y, ALTeaching TeachersRev. Leigh MeekinsNovember 4 - 5, 2011 Woodland United Methodist ChurchThe Other Side Of The ChildR ev. Melanie GordonFebruary 3 - 4, 2012Montgomery, ALHow To B e A LeaderLaura SissonApril 13 - 14, 2012Birmingham, AL  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120420T040000Z DTEND:20120422T035900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Men (UMM) Advance DESCRIPTION:The United Methodist Men (UMM) will have their Annual Advanc e on April 20 - 21, 2012. More details are forthcoming!  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120421T040000Z DTEND:20120422T035900Z SUMMARY:Great Day of Service DESCRIPTION:River Region Great Day of Service.  Visit http://greatdayofs ervice.net END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120422T040000Z DTEND:20120423T035900Z SUMMARY:Native American Ministries Sunday DESCRIPTION:Native American Ministries Sunday nurtures mission with Nati ve Americans and provides scholarships for United Methodist Native American seminarians.Click here for an overview of th is Special Sunday.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120423T040000Z DTEND:20120424T035900Z SUMMARY:Dothan District Gathering (formerly Laity Banquet & Rally) DESCRIPTION:The Dothan District Gathering (formerly the Laity Banquet & Rally) will be held April 23, 2012 at First United Methodist Church in Enterprise.  For more information about the gathe ring, please contact the district office 334.792.4259.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120423T040000Z DTEND:20120430T035900Z SUMMARY:Licensing School DESCRIPTION:The 2012 Licensing School will be held April 23 - 29.  More details are forthcoming.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120424T040000Z DTEND:20120505T035900Z SUMMARY:General Conference 2012 DESCRIPTION:The General Conference of The United Methodist Church will b e held April 24 - May 4, 2012 in Tampa, FL.  The General Con ference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodis t Church, and meets once every four years to determine the d enomination’s future direction, consider revisions to church law, and approve plans and budgets for churchwide programs. For more information, please contact Diane Degnan 615-742-54 06.     END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120503T040000Z DTEND:20120504T035900Z SUMMARY:Conference Board of Higher Ed and Campus Ministry DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120519T040000Z DTEND:20120520T035900Z SUMMARY:Conference CORE Team Meeting DESCRIPTION:The Conference CORE Team will meet on May 19, 2012.  Locatio n is Blue Lake.  Gathering is at 9:00 a.m.; Business begins promptly at 9:30 a.m. Lunch will be served.  Please rsvp you r attendance.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120601T040000Z DTEND:20120603T035900Z SUMMARY:UMW Southeastern Jurisdiction Quadrennial Meeting DESCRIPTION:The United Methodist Women Southeastern Jurisdiction Quadren nial Meeting will be held June 1 - 2, 2012 in Birmingham, AL . More details are forthcoming!  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120603T040000Z DTEND:20120607T035900Z SUMMARY:Annual Conference 2012 DESCRIPTION:The 2012 Annual Conference Session will be held June 3 - 6, 2012 at Christ United Methodist Church (Mobile, AL).  More d etails are forthcoming.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120603T040000Z DTEND:20120604T035900Z SUMMARY:Peace With Justice Sunday DESCRIPTION:Peace with Justice Sunday enables The United Methodist Churc h to have a voice in advocating for peace and justice throug h a broad spectrum of global programs.Click here for an over view of this Special Sunday.    END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120620T040000Z DTEND:20120621T035900Z SUMMARY:Moving Day For Pastors DESCRIPTION:Moving day for Alabama-West Florida Conference pastors is Ju ne 20, 2012.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120701T040000Z DTEND:20120702T035900Z SUMMARY:1st Sunday at New Appointment DESCRIPTION:All Alabama-West Florida Conference pastors changing appoint ments will fill their new pulpit on Sunday, July 1, 2012.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120715T040000Z DTEND:20120721T035900Z SUMMARY:56th Annual Church Music Workshop DESCRIPTION:The Florida Chapter of the Fellowship of United Methodists i n Music and Worship Arts is pleased to announce that our 56t h Annual Church Music Workshop will be held from Sunday afte rnoon, July 15 through Friday noontime, July 20, 2012, at Fl orida Southern College in Lakeland.  Anyone involved in chur ch music or worship planning, both traditional and contempor ary, adults or youth, are invited to join us. This year’s th eme, “Celebrating Our Journey:  The Seasons of Faith,” is ba sed on Ecclesiastes 3:1-11.  Clinicians for the workshop wil l be Adult Choral Clinician Ken Berg, composer and co-direct or of the Birmingham (AL) Boys Choir; Youth Clinician Andrew Minear, Director of Choral Activities at Dr. Phillips HS in Orlando; Handbell Clinician Sharon Brant, organist/music di rector at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Dade City; and Work shop Pastor, Dr. Kandace Brooks, Director of Community Forma tion and Affiliate Professor of Worship at Asbury Theologica l Seminary in Orlando.  Also included during this year's wor kshop will be a Pastor's Retreat and Worship & Song Event on Wednesday, July 18. Our Annual Church Music Workshop is for adults and youth (College, High School and Middle School) a nd has a variety of seminars to meet everyone’s music minist ry needs.  We invite you to take this opportunity to connect with other church musicians and worship leaders and be rene wed. For more information and for registration information, please visit our website at:  www.floridafellowship.org or c ontact Joan FitzGerald, Workshop Chairperson, at joan.fitzge rald@verizon.net or Registrar Dan Shorb at info@floridafello wship.org.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120718T040000Z DTEND:20120721T035900Z SUMMARY:SEJ Jurisdictional Conference 2012 DESCRIPTION:SEJ Jurisdictional Conference 2012July 18-20, 2012Lake Junal uska, NCThe next Southeastern (SEJ) Jurisdictional Conferenc e is scheduled  at Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Cen ter in Western North Carolina.  Further information about th e conference is being developed and will be available soon.A boutThe United Methodist Church was created in 1968 by a mer ger of the Evangelical United Brethren and Methodist churche s. Methodists elected their bishops at one national gatherin g until 1940, when the jurisdictional system was instituted. Bishops in the EUB church were elected at one national gath ering until 1968.A Jurisdictional Conference happens every 4 years primarily to elect Bishops. The conference also has t he powers and duties:•To promote the evangelistic, education al, missionary and benevolent interests of the church and to provide for interests and institutions within their boundar ies;•To establish and constitute jurisdictional conference b oards as auxiliaries to the general boards of the church;•To determine the boundaries of Annual Conferences;•To make rul es and regulations for the administration of the church's wo rk within the Jurisdiction;•To appoint a committee on appeal s.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120730T040000Z DTEND:20120803T035900Z SUMMARY:Festival Of Wisdom And Grace - Transition to Transformation DESCRIPTION:The 2012 Festival of Wisdom and Grace Conference July 30 - A ugust 2, 2012 at Lake Junaluska is an experience that will r enew your life! We are going to celebrate the Kingdom of God ! The event includes worship, Bible study, workshops, and lo ts of good fellowship.  It is designed for older adults, as well as for persons working with older adults in their congr egations. "Transition to Transformation" will explore the se asons of mid and later life with workshops geared around (1) practical issues such as grandparents raising grandchildren and keeping our bodies fit, and (2) spiritual issues such a s transforming pain and suffering, and shaping a life of sig nificance. Also offered will be the basics of building an ol der adult ministry and, new this year - a lay speaking class .COST:  Early Registration: $75 (BEFORE June 1)Regular Regis tration: $90 (after June 1)Space is limited; early registrat ion is recommended.Click HERE to register.Lodging reservatio ns can be made at www.lakejunaluska.com/wisdom-and-grace or by calling 1-800-222-4930.The event is sponsored by the Sout heastern Jurisdictional Association of Older Adults END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120802T040000Z DTEND:20120806T035900Z SUMMARY:Cooperative School of Christian Mission DESCRIPTION:Cooperative School of Christian Mission will be held August 2 - 5, 2012 at Huntingdon College in Montgomery, AL.More det ails are forthcoming!  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120809T040000Z DTEND:20120812T035900Z SUMMARY:Strengthening The Black Church for the 21st Century (SBC21) Convocation DESCRIPTION:Strengthening The Black Church for the 21st Century (SBC21) Convocation (SBC21) will be held August 9- 11, 2012 at Capit ol Heights United Methodist Church in Montgomery, AL.  More details are forthcoming!  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120823T040000Z DTEND:20120826T035900Z SUMMARY:African-American Women's Leadership Conference DESCRIPTION:The African-American Women's Leadership Conference will be h eld August 23 - 25, 2012 at Lake Junaluska.  This conference provides African-American female clergy and female laity an opportunity to strengthen their leadership skills for minis try and promote and practice self-care specifically as it re lates to living as female African-American Christians.  Come away with new insights to help you use your gifts for even greater  glory to God.  Draw even closer to God and to your sisters in Christ.Click here for registration information.Fo r information contact Rev. Dr. Carl Arrington, Director of A frican-American Ministries, 828-454-6739 or carrington@lakej unaluska.com    END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120906T040000Z DTEND:20120907T035900Z SUMMARY:Conference CORE Team Meeting DESCRIPTION:The Conference CORE Team will meet on September 6, 2012.  Lo cation is Blue Lake.  Gathering is at 9:00 a.m.; Business be gins promptly at 9:30 a.m. Lunch will be served.  Please rsv p your attendance.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20120924T040000Z DTEND:20120925T035900Z SUMMARY:Dothan District Gathering (formerly Laity Banquet & Rally) DESCRIPTION:The Dothan District Gathering (formerly the Laity Banquet & Rally) will be held September 24, 2012 at First United Metho dist Church in Ozark.  For more information about the gather ing, please contact the district office 334.792.4259.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20121007T040000Z DTEND:20121008T035900Z SUMMARY:World Communion Sunday DESCRIPTION:World Communion Sunday provides scholarships for U.S. racial - and ethnic-minority students and international students, o n both undergraduate and graduate levels.Click here for an o verview of this Special Sunday.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20121019T040000Z DTEND:20121020T035900Z SUMMARY:UMW Officer Training DESCRIPTION:The Conference United Methodist Women (UMW) will have Office r Training on October 19, 2012 at Blue Lake.More details are forthcoming!  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20121020T040000Z DTEND:20121021T035900Z SUMMARY:Conference UMW Annual Meeting DESCRIPTION:The Alabama-West Florida Conference United Methodist Women ( UMW) will have their Annual Meeting on October 20, 2012 at B lue Lake.More details are forthcoming!  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20121125T050000Z DTEND:20121126T045900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Student Day DESCRIPTION:United Methodist Student Day furnishes scholarships and loan s for students attending United Methodist-related and other accredited colleges and universities.Click here for an overv iew of this Special Sunday.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20121129T050000Z DTEND:20121130T045900Z SUMMARY:Conference CORE Team Meeting DESCRIPTION:The Conference CORE Team will meet on November 29, 2012.  Lo cation is Blue Lake.  Gathering is at 9:00 a.m.; Business be gins promptly at 9:30 a.m. Lunch will be served.  Please rsv p your attendance.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20130125T050000Z DTEND:20130127T045900Z SUMMARY:COSROW DESCRIPTION:The Commission on the Status and Role of Women (COSROW) will have their annual retreat January 25 - 26, 2013.  Keynote s peaker and facilitator will be Sandra Ruby.  More details ar e forthcoming!   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20130127T050000Z DTEND:20130128T045900Z SUMMARY:Dothan District District Conference (Super Sunday) DESCRIPTION:The Dothan District will have it's District Conference (Supe r Sunday) on January 27, 2013.  More details are forthcoming !  END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR