BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Brick River Technologies//NONSGML v1.0//EN BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100226T050000Z DTEND:20100228T045900Z SUMMARY:Disaster Spiritual Care Volunteer Refresher Course DESCRIPTION:Your DSCV credential is considered valid for two years with re-credentializing required in order to continue as a DSCV. This process involves a “refresher course” and a background check.  Please contact Rev. Mel Kawakami (melkawakami@mac.co m) as soon as possible if you are interested in renewing you r DSCV credentials. More information and an application form will be posted here shortly. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100227T050000Z DTEND:20100228T045900Z SUMMARY:Basic ERT Training DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100227T050000Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Catskill Hudson Lenten Lay Speaking Ministries School DESCRIPTION: Greetings – Happy New Year – may your 2010 be filled with l ove and kindness and the Spirit of God all around you.We hav e listened to your requested for courses; we have listened t o locations; we have listened to choices of days; we have li stened to the geographic areas of our district. And, we are trying something new for us. Catskill Hudson District will i naugurate its first annual Lenten Lay Ministries School – no t in one location…..but in two locations. This event is an o pportunity for Lay Speakers new and old to network and conne ct in areas of common interests, needs and possibilities. Th e school works in the following way –  You come together one morning (Reservoir) or one evening (Monticello) a week d uring Lent.  Pick a course you wish to take. The selectio ns in each location are a result of the information provided on the surveys many of you completed during the summer. The beginning of the session will be networking and fellowsh ip time. Proceed to your designated course. You will n ote “Potpourri” Courses and they are free for anyone. They a re one time sessions on topics of interest.Thank you in adva nced to those instructors who have committed to teaching. Th is is an exciting opportunity. I am looking forward to meeti ng new people from throughout the District. As you know, the weather is very unpredictable and we will provide those who register with a “weather person” who will be the point of c ontact in case of inclement weather. So let us all move forw ard and celebrate this new venture in the Lay Speaking Minis tries. A bit about each course: Reservoir:      Basic Lay Sp eaking Course – the foundation for your role as a Lay Speake r. It offers guidelines for best practices as a church leade r and outlines a number of ministries in which lay speakers can have an important role.     Spiritual Gifts – an advance d course which focuses on acquiring a better understanding o f your own gifts and how you can become more equipped to lea d with these gifts     Leading Bible Study – this advanced c ourse is designed to help lay speakers become versed in how to teach and lead a Bible study.     Potpourri:2/27 - Race a nd Religion - Listening to the Conversation on Race is one t hing, but we want you to actively join in on the conversatio n too! Information from General Commission on Race and Relat ions.         3/6 - Radical Hospitality-Rethink Church – Rev Darlene Kelley will repeat her “Tool Box” discussion on wha t it means to be “radical” and step out of the box and welco me all.         3/13 - UMCOR – Where We’ve Been – John Fritz , a Lay Speaker from the Hyde Park UMC and an instructor in our district, speaks with personal knowledge of his associat ion with UMCOR.        3/20Book Study “The Shack” – Everyone is reading this book by William P. Young. The book has beco ming a hit and especially so among students and among those who are part of the Emergent Church. In this area many churc hes have read it and have had book discussions. If you have not read the book, read it, and come and join the discussion . The Lay Speaking Ministries Committee is certainly looking forward to these events – won’t you consider joining us?  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100227T050000Z DTEND:20100228T045900Z SUMMARY:Conference Finance & Administration Budget Hearings DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100228T050000Z DTEND:20100301T045900Z SUMMARY:2010 Lenten School DESCRIPTION:The 2010 Lenten School will be again held at Grace United Me thodist Church in Newburgh, NY during the six Sundays of Len t (February 21st, February 28th, March 7th, March 14th, Marc h 21st, and March 28th). The schedule will be 4:00 – 4:30 S oup and Sandwiches 4:40 – 5:00 A b rief worship service 5:00 – 7:30 C lass time    The 2010 Lenten School w ill consist of the following courses of general interest: A six week Lenten Bible Study A two-week study “Paths to the Ministry”  — information on what paths are available fo r ministry in the United Methodist Church — scheduled for 2/ 21 and 2/28 A two-week study on funeral ministry — schedu led for 3/21 and 3/28 Workshop on basic nutrition —  “You r Body as a Temple” — 3/21; followed by a workshop on counti ng carbohydrates, specifically for those with diabetes and p re-diabetes or who have high tri-glycerides —  3/28 Works hop on Prayer — dates to be determined (3 weeks) Workshop s on Spiritual Discipline — 3/7 Workshop on being an acol yte, greeter, and usher— date to be determined A six week devotional study for middle school, junior high and high sc hool students. (We are looking for individuals to help lead this study; we would especially like to have one or two male teachers to assist in the planning and leadership.)There is no charge for the above courses. Pre-registration is highly recommended.There will also be a series of courses designed for those interested in becoming a Local Lay Speaker or a C ertified Speaker in the United Methodist Church. For those i nterested in becoming a lay speaker, please review 266 - 268 in the Book of Discipline.  You must be a local lay speaker to take course for becoming a certified lay speaker and you must be either a local or certified lay speaker to take the refresher courses.Each of the following courses will run fo r the six weeks of the school.  Cost will be $35.00 with a $ 5.00 discount for those who register before 1 February 2010.   Contact Tony Mitchell (TonyMitchellPhD@verizon.net) to reg ister, registration information or requests for other course s.For those who are not presently a local or certified lay s peaker:  Basic Course in Lay Speaking Course in Sermon P lanningFor those who are currently a local lay speaker or ce rtified lay speaker, the following courses serve as advanced courses or refresher courses (reminder that each lay speake r, local and certified, must take a course once every three years to maintain status): Course in sermon planning C ourse in leading worship Additional course — topic to be announced A six-week workshop on “Technology in the Pulpi t” — course dealing with various ways to present the mission of the church outside traditional preaching (discussion and introduction to presentation methods, blogging, and other s ocial network methodologies) A six-week study — “Devotion al Life in the Wesleyan tradition"The total schedule is bein g developed.  We are looking for additional courses and indi viduals interested in teaching those courses.  Contact Tony Mitchell (TonyMitchellPhD@verizon.net) to register, registra tion information or requests for other courses.For additiona l information, contact Tony Mitchell (914-456-9247 or TonyMi tchellPhD@verizon.net) or Pastor Steve Knutsen (845-635-3540 or pastorsteveknutsen@verizon.net)   Please click on the "R elated Link" below for a printable copy of this information, and more information about END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100228T050000Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Catskill Hudson Lenten Lay Speaking Ministries School DESCRIPTION:Greetings – Happy New Year – may your 2010 be filled with lo ve and kindness and the Spirit of God all around you.We have listened to your requested for courses; we have listened to locations; we have listened to choices of days; we have lis tened to the geographic areas of our district. And, we are t rying something new for us. Catskill Hudson District will in augurate its first annual Lenten Lay Ministries School – not in one location…..but in two locations. This event is an op portunity for Lay Speakers new and old to network and connec t in areas of common interests, needs and possibilities. The school works in the following way –  You come together o ne morning (Reservoir) or one evening (Monticello) a week du ring Lent.  Pick a course you wish to take. The selection s in each location are a result of the information provided on the surveys many of you completed during the summer. T he beginning of the session will be networking and fellowshi p time. Proceed to your designated course. You will no te “Potpourri” Courses and they are free for anyone. They ar e one time sessions on topics of interest.Thank you in advan ced to those instructors who have committed to teaching. Thi s is an exciting opportunity. I am looking forward to meetin g new people from throughout the District. As you know, the weather is very unpredictable and we will provide those who register with a “weather person” who will be the point of co ntact in case of inclement weather. So let us all move forwa rd and celebrate this new venture in the Lay Speaking Minist ries. A bit about each course: Monticello:            Basic Lay Speaking Course – the foundation for your role as a Lay Speaker. It offers guidelines for best practices as a church leader and outlines a number of ministries in which lay spe akers can have an important role.            Lay Speakers Le ad in Outreach and Mission – this advance course helps lay s peakers understand the role of mission outreach in relations hip to the vision and ministry of the church.            Adv anced Preaching – this course goes beyond the basics of publ ic speaking and address the foundations necessary for prepar ing an engaging sermon, including types of sermons, using th e hymnal, children’s messages, presentation and practice.             Concepts in Leadership – also known as the “refresh er Course” for Local Lay Speakers who are in need of trainin g. This course is designed to prepare church leaders to focu s on their role as spiritual leaders in their congregations.             Potpourri                         3/7 - Radical Hospitality-Rethink Church – Rev Darlene Kelley will repeat her “Tool Box” discussion on what it means to be “radical” a nd step out of the box and welcome all.                         3/14 - Race and Religion - Listening to the Conversation on Race is one thing, but we want you to actively join in on the conversation too! Information from General Commission o n Race and Relations.                        3/21 - Book Stu dy “The Shack” – Everyone is reading this book by William P. Young. The book has becoming a hit and especially so among students and among those who are part of the Emergent Church . In this area many churches have read it and have had book discussions. If you have not read the book, read it, and com e and join the discussion.                        3/18 - UMC OR – Where We’ve Been – John Fritz, a Lay Speaker from the H yde Park UMC and an instructor in our district speaks with p ersonal knowledge of his association with UMCOR.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100302T050000Z DTEND:20100303T045900Z SUMMARY:Annual Conference Tent 2 Planning DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100302T050000Z DTEND:20100305T045900Z SUMMARY:Cabinet Retreat DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100304T050000Z DTEND:20100305T045900Z SUMMARY:Vacation Bible School DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100305T050000Z DTEND:20100306T045900Z SUMMARY:VIM Ecuador Dinner DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100306T050000Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Catskill Hudson Lenten Lay Speaking Ministries School DESCRIPTION:Greetings – Happy New Year – may your 2010 be filled with lo ve and kindness and the Spirit of God all around you.We have listened to your requested for courses; we have listened to locations; we have listened to choices of days; we have lis tened to the geographic areas of our district. And, we are t rying something new for us. Catskill Hudson District will in augurate its first annual Lenten Lay Ministries School – not in one location…..but in two locations. This event is an op portunity for Lay Speakers new and old to network and connec t in areas of common interests, needs and possibilities. The school works in the following way –  You come together o ne morning (Reservoir) or one evening (Monticello) a week du ring Lent.  Pick a course you wish to take. The selection s in each location are a result of the information provided on the surveys many of you completed during the summer. T he beginning of the session will be networking and fellowshi p time. Proceed to your designated course. You will no te “Potpourri” Courses and they are free for anyone. They ar e one time sessions on topics of interest.Thank you in advan ced to those instructors who have committed to teaching. Thi s is an exciting opportunity. I am looking forward to meetin g new people from throughout the District. As you know, the weather is very unpredictable and we will provide those who register with a “weather person” who will be the point of co ntact in case of inclement weather. So let us all move forwa rd and celebrate this new venture in the Lay Speaking Minist ries. A bit about each course: Reservoir:     Basic Lay Spea king Course – the foundation for your role as a Lay Speaker. It offers guidelines for best practices as a church leader and outlines a number of ministries in which lay speakers ca n have an important role.     Spiritual Gifts – an advanced course which focuses on acquiring a better understanding of your own gifts and how you can become more equipped to lead with these gifts     Leading Bible Study – this advanced cou rse is designed to help lay speakers become versed in how to teach and lead a Bible study.     Potpourri:     3/6 - Radi cal Hospitality-Rethink Church – Rev Darlene Kelley will rep eat her “Tool Box” discussion on what it means to be “radica l” and step out of the box and welcome all.     3/13 - UMCOR – Where We’ve Been – John Fritz, a Lay Speaker from the Hyd e Park UMC and an instructor in our district, speaks with pe rsonal knowledge of his association with UMCOR.     3/20 -Bo ok Study “The Shack” – Everyone is reading this book by Will iam P. Young. The book has becoming a hit and especially so among students and among those who are part of the Emergent Church. In this area many churches have read it and have had book discussions. If you have not read the book, read it, a nd come and join the discussion. The Lay Speaking Ministries Committee is certainly looking forward to these events – wo n’t you consider joining us?  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100306T050000Z DTEND:20100307T045900Z SUMMARY:Commission on Archives & History: Genealogy Workshop DESCRIPTION:Attendance is limited to 25. This workshop will include disc ussions with Saugerties historian, author and genealogist Au drey Klinkenberg.  Audrey has been president of the Ulster C ounty Genealogical Society, registrar of a local DAR chapter and serves as the historian for the town of Saugerties, NY.   She writes, "At this workshop we will be focusing on genea logy at the beginning.  Come prepared to ask questions and b e ready to find new avenues for research."To register for th is workshop, contact Mary Robison at archives@nyac.com; toll free: 1-888-696-6922 or direct at 914-615-2128.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100306T050000Z DTEND:20100307T045900Z SUMMARY:Long Island West District School of Lay Speaking Ministries DESCRIPTION:Youth, Beginner, Certified and Advanced CoursesQUEENS/NASSAU CAMPUSUM CHURCH of FLORAL PARK  35 Verbena Ave., Floral Par k, NY  11001 (516) 354- 4969 Click to get directions>>                       BROOKLYN CAMPUS (NEW location!!)UNION UM CHU RCH 121 New York Ave., Brooklyn, NY  11216\(718) 467- 0458Cl ick to get directions>>Certified / Advanced Course:  “Lay Sp eakers are Servant Leaders” (mandatory)“Christian Stewardshi p” (Brooklyn Campus Only)“Bereavement Ministry” (Queens/Nass au Campus Only) (Youth, Beginner & Servant Leader courses wi ll be offered at both campuses)January 9 and 23, February 6 and 20, March 6 and 20  Closing Worship and Fellowship on Ma rch 27 at Brooklyn campus  Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p .m. (includes a 30 minute break)We have beverages … Please b ring your own breakfast / lunch / snack!REGISTRATION FEESYou th - $15.00     Beginners, Certified & Advanced - $25.00(Inc ludes all texts and printed materials)REGISTRATION DEADLINE:   December 10, 2009(ALL late registrations add $10.00 per pe rson – NO EXCEPTIONS!!!)Applications can be obtained from yo ur Pastor.  You must indicate at the top of your application which location you select.  If you do not, one will be sele cted for you.  Only one location may be chosen for the entir e semester.Click here to view the flyer >>Click here to down load the registration form>>Questions?: Denise Jakaitis: 914 -669-5264  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100306T050000Z DTEND:20100307T045900Z SUMMARY:NY/CT District Lay Speaker Ministry Course for 2010 DESCRIPTION:Six Saturdays from 8:30* am to 3:45 January 9 & 23; February 6 & 20; March 6 & 20.  *first day is 8amDo you know your sp iritual gifts? (why not?)Want to learn the roots of Methodis m? (it’s fun!)Take the next step on your spiritual journey? (yes?)The NY/CT District Lay Speaker Ministry Course for 201 0 prepares laity to provide a ministry of caring, leadership , and communicating God’s word.Current Lay Speakers: You may also take certain classes as an Advanced class.Tell your fr iends who may not want to become a Lay Speaker that they are welcome to sign up for individual classes.This is for all l ay people, to open new doors for ministry and energize your church. Our District Superintendent and our Bishop, strongly support this course.The program includes classes on: Pla nning and Developing a Sermon: Rev. Ken Kieffer (D. S. – Con necticut District) Teaching and Preaching New Testament: Rev. Bill Pfohl (Jesse Lee Ridgefield) Teaching and Preac hing the Old Testament: Rev. Gordon Bienvenue (Riverhead UMC ) Public Speaking: Dennis Castiglia (Connecticut District Lay Speaking committee) Healing Ministry (in the Methodi st tradition) & How to Pray: Pastor Debbi Mygatt (Dir. Praye r & Healing Jesse Lee) Discerning Spiritual Gifts: Marie Bell (NY/Ct. Lay Speaking committee) Methodist Doctrine a nd Polity: Rev. Bill Pfohl Why it’s Cool to be Methodist: Rev. Roy Grubbs (Yorktown) Designing a Worship Service: Elaine Winward (Dir. NY/Ct Lay Speaking) and Rev. Karen Karp ow Interactive Preaching: Rev. Ann Pearson (Conference Di rector of Connectional Ministries) Evangelism: Pastor Ste ve Knutsen (Pleasant Valley UMC & Bengall)Six Saturdays from 8:30* am to 3:45 January 9 & 23; February 6 & 20; March 6 & 20.  *first day is 8amClick here to view full schedule >>Cl ick here to download the registration form>>Cost: $35.00 (Sc holarships available and travel time considered.  Also early bird, if you sign up by Dec. 1 deduct $5.00)NOTE: If you do n’t wish to become a Lay Speaker you can also sign up for ce rtain sessions, marked with an *asterisk : $6. eachFor curre nt Lay Speakers: You may also take 3 or 4 of the classes, (d epending on the length) marked with an *asterisk, as an Adva nced Class.  Cost is $20(again, scholarships available)Quest ions?: Elaine Winward:  914 669-5264  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100307T050000Z DTEND:20100308T045900Z SUMMARY:2010 Lenten School DESCRIPTION:The 2010 Lenten School will be again held at Grace United Me thodist Church in Newburgh, NY during the six Sundays of Len t (February 21st, February 28th, March 7th, March 14th, Marc h 21st, and March 28th). The schedule will be 4:00 – 4:30 S oup and Sandwiches 4:40 – 5:00 A b rief worship service 5:00 – 7:30 C lass time    The 2010 Lenten School w ill consist of the following courses of general interest: A six week Lenten Bible Study A two-week study “Paths to the Ministry”  — information on what paths are available fo r ministry in the United Methodist Church — scheduled for 2/ 21 and 2/28 A two-week study on funeral ministry — schedu led for 3/21 and 3/28 Workshop on basic nutrition —  “You r Body as a Temple” — 3/21; followed by a workshop on counti ng carbohydrates, specifically for those with diabetes and p re-diabetes or who have high tri-glycerides —  3/28 Works hop on Prayer — dates to be determined (3 weeks) Workshop s on Spiritual Discipline — 3/7 Workshop on being an acol yte, greeter, and usher— date to be determined A six week devotional study for middle school, junior high and high sc hool students. (We are looking for individuals to help lead this study; we would especially like to have one or two male teachers to assist in the planning and leadership.)There is no charge for the above courses. Pre-registration is highly recommended.There will also be a series of courses designed for those interested in becoming a Local Lay Speaker or a C ertified Speaker in the United Methodist Church. For those i nterested in becoming a lay speaker, please review 266 - 268 in the Book of Discipline.  You must be a local lay speaker to take course for becoming a certified lay speaker and you must be either a local or certified lay speaker to take the refresher courses.Each of the following courses will run fo r the six weeks of the school.  Cost will be $35.00 with a $ 5.00 discount for those who register before 1 February 2010.   Contact Tony Mitchell (TonyMitchellPhD@verizon.net) to reg ister, registration information or requests for other course s.For those who are not presently a local or certified lay s peaker:  Basic Course in Lay Speaking Course in Sermon P lanningFor those who are currently a local lay speaker or ce rtified lay speaker, the following courses serve as advanced courses or refresher courses (reminder that each lay speake r, local and certified, must take a course once every three years to maintain status): Course in sermon planning C ourse in leading worship Additional course — topic to be announced A six-week workshop on “Technology in the Pulpi t” — course dealing with various ways to present the mission of the church outside traditional preaching (discussion and introduction to presentation methods, blogging, and other s ocial network methodologies) A six-week study — “Devotion al Life in the Wesleyan tradition"The total schedule is bein g developed.  We are looking for additional courses and indi viduals interested in teaching those courses.  Contact Tony Mitchell (TonyMitchellPhD@verizon.net) to register, registra tion information or requests for other courses.For additiona l information, contact Tony Mitchell (914-456-9247 or TonyMi tchellPhD@verizon.net) or Pastor Steve Knutsen (845-635-3540 or pastorsteveknutsen@verizon.net)   Please click on the "R elated Link" below for a printable copy of this information, and more information about END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100307T050000Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Catskill Hudson Lenten Lay Speaking Ministries School DESCRIPTION: Greetings – Happy New Year – may your 2010 be filled with l ove and kindness and the Spirit of God all around you.We hav e listened to your requested for courses; we have listened t o locations; we have listened to choices of days; we have li stened to the geographic areas of our district. And, we are trying something new for us. Catskill Hudson District will i naugurate its first annual Lenten Lay Ministries School – no t in one location…..but in two locations. This event is an o pportunity for Lay Speakers new and old to network and conne ct in areas of common interests, needs and possibilities. Th e school works in the following way –  You come together one morning (Reservoir) or one evening (Monticello) a week d uring Lent.  Pick a course you wish to take. The selectio ns in each location are a result of the information provided on the surveys many of you completed during the summer. The beginning of the session will be networking and fellowsh ip time. Proceed to your designated course. You will n ote “Potpourri” Courses and they are free for anyone. They a re one time sessions on topics of interest.Thank you in adva nced to those instructors who have committed to teaching. Th is is an exciting opportunity. I am looking forward to meeti ng new people from throughout the District. As you know, the weather is very unpredictable and we will provide those who register with a “weather person” who will be the point of c ontact in case of inclement weather. So let us all move forw ard and celebrate this new venture in the Lay Speaking Minis tries. A bit about each course: Monticello:            Basic Lay Speaking Course – the foundation for your role as a Lay Speaker. It offers guidelines for best practices as a churc h leader and outlines a number of ministries in which lay sp eakers can have an important role.            Lay Speakers L ead in Outreach and Mission – this advance course helps lay speakers understand the role of mission outreach in relation ship to the vision and ministry of the church.            Ad vanced Preaching – this course goes beyond the basics of pub lic speaking and address the foundations necessary for prepa ring an engaging sermon, including types of sermons, using t he hymnal, children’s messages, presentation and practice.             Concepts in Leadership – also known as the “refres her Course” for Local Lay Speakers who are in need of traini ng. This course is designed to prepare church leaders to foc us on their role as spiritual leaders in their congregations .            Potpourri                         3/7 - Radical Hospitality-Rethink Church – Rev Darlene Kelley will repeat her “Tool Box” discussion on what it means to be “radical” and step out of the box and welcome all.                         3/14 -Race and Religion - Listening to the Conversation on Race is one thing, but we want you to actively join in on the conversation too! Information from General Commission o n Race and Relations.                        3/21 - Book Stu dy “The Shack” – Everyone is reading this book by William P. Young. The book has becoming a hit and especially so among students and among those who are part of the Emergent Church . In this area many churches have read it and have had book discussions. If you have not read the book, read it, and com e and join the discussion.                        3/28 -UMCO R – Where We’ve Been – John Fritz, a Lay Speaker from the Hy de Park UMC and an instructor in our district speaks with pe rsonal knowledge of his association with UMCOR.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100309T050000Z DTEND:20100310T045900Z SUMMARY:Tax Seminar for Clergy and Spouses: Compensation and the IRS - NY Conference Center DESCRIPTION:Do you know: advantages of a 401(k) over an IRS? advan tages of a Roth IRA over a regular IRA? the shoots and la dders of your Social Security tax? the state gives you a tax break every year? a gift at the door from a grateful church needs to be taxed? how your UM pension works? Thes e and other questions will be answered at the Clergy & Spous e Tax Seminars scheduled throughout the conference during Ma rch. Rev. Fred Leasure, Executive Director of the Western PA UM Foundation and Dr. Keith Muhleman, President of the UM F rontier Foundation will attempt to make all things clear...a t least as clear as they can be for tax purposes!Join us...i t may help in April! Even if you have filed by March, you ca n re- file an amended return if you made an error and want t o avoid an audit OR get a bigger refund. Biography The Rev. Dr. Keith Muhleman is an ordained pastor related to the Wisc onsin Conference of the United Methodist Church. He attended West Virginia Wesleyan College and Claremont School of Theo logy in California. Keith’s background has included communic ation and fund raising leadership positions in Wisconsin, UM Com, the General Board of Global Ministries, the Dutch Refor m Church and the Diocese of the Armenian Church. He has serv ed secular organizations including The Norman Vincent and Ru th Stafford Peale Foundation, the Carter Foundation in Atlan ta, Arden Hill Hospital in Goshen, NY and the Cancer Researc h and Treatment Fund in New York City.He and his wife live i n Newburgh, New York.  Frederick H. Leasure, CFRE, has serve d as the Executive Director of the United Methodist Foundati on of Western Pennsylvania since 1983. He is responsible for the day-to-day operation and supervision of the ministry of the Foundation. Under his leadership, numerous endowments, scholarships, and other funding arrangements have been devel oped to support a wide variety of ministries.Fred is a much- sought-after teacher and lecturer on stewardship and related financial planning topicsA graduate of West Virginia Wesley an College and the Theological School of Drew University, Fr ed has also completed the Kennedy-Sinclaire and Philanthropy Tax Institute’s planned and deferred giving program, and nu merous seminars and courses in philanthropy and taxation thr ough both the University of Pittsburgh and Penn State Univer sity.Fred is an ordained Elder in the Western Pennsylvania A nnual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and, before being appointed to the Foundation, he served local churches in northwestern Pennsylvania and northern New Jersey. Fred is a member of the Board of Trustees at West Virginia Wesley an College. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100310T050000Z DTEND:20100311T045900Z SUMMARY:Annual Conference Tent 3 Planning (Youth & Children) DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100310T050000Z DTEND:20100312T045900Z SUMMARY:Cabinet Retreat DESCRIPTION:March 10-11 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100312T050000Z DTEND:20100321T035900Z SUMMARY:Mountains of Hope — VIM Trip to Haiti (postponed) DESCRIPTION:Four Trips Available in 2010:February 12th to February 20th, 2010 - POSTPONEDMarch 12th to March 20th, 2010 - POSTPONEDE nd of May to early June, 2010, exact dates TBDJuly 1st to Ju ly 10th, 2010Please click the "Related Link" below for more information including team leader information and estimated costs. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100313T050000Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Catskill Hudson Lenten Lay Speaking Ministries School DESCRIPTION: Greetings – Happy New Year – may your 2010 be filled with l ove and kindness and the Spirit of God all around you.We hav e listened to your requested for courses; we have listened t o locations; we have listened to choices of days; we have li stened to the geographic areas of our district. And, we are trying something new for us. Catskill Hudson District will i naugurate its first annual Lenten Lay Ministries School – no t in one location…..but in two locations. This event is an o pportunity for Lay Speakers new and old to network and conne ct in areas of common interests, needs and possibilities. Th e school works in the following way –  You come together one morning (Reservoir) or one evening (Monticello) a week d uring Lent.  Pick a course you wish to take. The selectio ns in each location are a result of the information provided on the surveys many of you completed during the summer. The beginning of the session will be networking and fellowsh ip time. Proceed to your designated course. You will n ote “Potpourri” Courses and they are free for anyone. They a re one time sessions on topics of interest.Thank you in adva nced to those instructors who have committed to teaching. Th is is an exciting opportunity. I am looking forward to meeti ng new people from throughout the District. As you know, the weather is very unpredictable and we will provide those who register with a “weather person” who will be the point of c ontact in case of inclement weather. So let us all move forw ard and celebrate this new venture in the Lay Speaking Minis tries. A bit about each course: Reservoir:     Basic Lay Spe aking Course – the foundation for your role as a Lay Speaker . It offers guidelines for best practices as a church leader and outlines a number of ministries in which lay speakers c an have an important role.     Spiritual Gifts – an advanced course which focuses on acquiring a better understanding of your own gifts and how you can become more equipped to lead with these gifts     Leading Bible Study – this advanced co urse is designed to help lay speakers become versed in how t o teach and lead a Bible study.     Potpourri:     3/13 - UM COR – Where We’ve Been – John Fritz, a Lay Speaker from the Hyde Park UMC and an instructor in our district, speaks with personal knowledge of his association with UMCOR.     3/20 - Book Study “The Shack” – Everyone is reading this book by William P. Young. The book has becoming a hit and especially so among students and among those who are part of the Emerg ent Church. In this area many churches have read it and have had book discussions. If you have not read the book, read i t, and come and join the discussion. The Lay Speaking Minist ries Committee is certainly looking forward to these events – won’t you consider joining us?  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100313T050000Z DTEND:20100314T045900Z SUMMARY:Clergy Spouses Executive Meeting DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100313T050000Z DTEND:20100314T045900Z SUMMARY:Early Response Team Training DESCRIPTION:Train to become part of an early response team for UMCOR in this 8 a.m.–4 p.m. workshop at Smithtown UMC. Maximum class size is 20; each applicant will need to authorize UMCOR to c onduct a background check. To register, email Warren Ferry, Long Island East District disaster response coordinator, at warrenferry@verizon.net. Participants should bring a bag lun ch; coffee, tea, water, and soda will be supplied. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100313T050000Z DTEND:20100314T045900Z SUMMARY:Town Hall Meeting DESCRIPTION:With Rev. Dr. Geor Mulrain, president, and Rev. Paul Walfall , publishing officer, The Methodist Church in the Carribbean and The AmericasCome and dialogue as they share plans for t he Celebration of The 250th Anniversary of Caribbean Methodi sm and garner the support of the diaspora.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100313T050000Z DTEND:20100314T045900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Women (COM) DESCRIPTION:Goal Setting Meeting: District Treasurers are invited END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100313T050000Z DTEND:20100314T045900Z SUMMARY:VIM Mozambique Executive Committee DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100314T050000Z DTEND:20100315T035900Z SUMMARY:2010 Lenten School DESCRIPTION:The 2010 Lenten School will be again held at Grace United Me thodist Church in Newburgh, NY during the six Sundays of Len t (February 21st, February 28th, March 7th, March 14th, Marc h 21st, and March 28th). The schedule will be 4:00 – 4:30 S oup and Sandwiches 4:40 – 5:00 A b rief worship service 5:00 – 7:30 C lass time    The 2010 Lenten School w ill consist of the following courses of general interest: A six week Lenten Bible Study A two-week study “Paths to the Ministry”  — information on what paths are available fo r ministry in the United Methodist Church — scheduled for 2/ 21 and 2/28 A two-week study on funeral ministry — schedu led for 3/21 and 3/28 Workshop on basic nutrition —  “You r Body as a Temple” — 3/21; followed by a workshop on counti ng carbohydrates, specifically for those with diabetes and p re-diabetes or who have high tri-glycerides —  3/28 Works hop on Prayer — dates to be determined (3 weeks) Workshop s on Spiritual Discipline — 3/7 Workshop on being an acol yte, greeter, and usher— date to be determined A six week devotional study for middle school, junior high and high sc hool students. (We are looking for individuals to help lead this study; we would especially like to have one or two male teachers to assist in the planning and leadership.)There is no charge for the above courses. Pre-registration is highly recommended.There will also be a series of courses designed for those interested in becoming a Local Lay Speaker or a C ertified Speaker in the United Methodist Church. For those i nterested in becoming a lay speaker, please review 266 - 268 in the Book of Discipline.  You must be a local lay speaker to take course for becoming a certified lay speaker and you must be either a local or certified lay speaker to take the refresher courses.Each of the following courses will run fo r the six weeks of the school.  Cost will be $35.00 with a $ 5.00 discount for those who register before 1 February 2010.   Contact Tony Mitchell (TonyMitchellPhD@verizon.net) to reg ister, registration information or requests for other course s.For those who are not presently a local or certified lay s peaker:  Basic Course in Lay Speaking Course in Sermon P lanningFor those who are currently a local lay speaker or ce rtified lay speaker, the following courses serve as advanced courses or refresher courses (reminder that each lay speake r, local and certified, must take a course once every three years to maintain status): Course in sermon planning C ourse in leading worship Additional course — topic to be announced A six-week workshop on “Technology in the Pulpi t” — course dealing with various ways to present the mission of the church outside traditional preaching (discussion and introduction to presentation methods, blogging, and other s ocial network methodologies) A six-week study — “Devotion al Life in the Wesleyan tradition"The total schedule is bein g developed.  We are looking for additional courses and indi viduals interested in teaching those courses.  Contact Tony Mitchell (TonyMitchellPhD@verizon.net) to register, registra tion information or requests for other courses.For additiona l information, contact Tony Mitchell (914-456-9247 or TonyMi tchellPhD@verizon.net) or Pastor Steve Knutsen (845-635-3540 or pastorsteveknutsen@verizon.net)   Please click on the "R elated Link" below for a printable copy of this information, and more information about END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100314T050000Z DTEND:20100315T035900Z SUMMARY:Annual Black College Fund Committee Luncheon DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100314T050000Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Catskill Hudson Lenten Lay Speaking Ministries School DESCRIPTION:  Greetings – Happy New Year – may your 2010 be filled with love and kindness and the Spirit of God all around you. We h ave listened to your requested for courses; we have listened to locations; we have listened to choices of days; we have listened to the geographic areas of our district. And, we ar e trying something new for us. Catskill Hudson District will inaugurate its first annual Lenten Lay Ministries School – not in one location…..but in two locations. This event is an opportunity for Lay Speakers new and old to network and con nect in areas of common interests, needs and possibilities.  The school works in the following way –  You come togethe r one morning (Reservoir) or one evening (Monticello) a week during Lent.  Pick a course you wish to take. The select ions in each location are a result of the information provid ed on the surveys many of you completed during the summer. The beginning of the session will be networking and fellow ship time. Proceed to your designated course. You will note “Potpourri” Courses and they are free for anyone. They are one time sessions on topics of interest. Thank you in a dvanced to those instructors who have committed to teaching.  This is an exciting opportunity. I am looking forward to me eting new people from throughout the District. As you know, the weather is very unpredictable and we will provide those who register with a “weather person” who will be the point o f contact in case of inclement weather. So let us all move f orward and celebrate this new venture in the Lay Speaking Mi nistries. A bit about each course: Monticello:            Ba sic Lay Speaking Course – the foundation for your role as a Lay Speaker. It offers guidelines for best practices as a ch urch leader and outlines a number of ministries in which lay speakers can have an important role.            Lay Speaker s Lead in Outreach and Mission – this advance course helps l ay speakers understand the role of mission outreach in relat ionship to the vision and ministry of the church.            Advanced Preaching – this course goes beyond the basics of public speaking and address the foundations necessary for pr eparing an engaging sermon, including types of sermons, usin g the hymnal, children’s messages, presentation and practice .            Concepts in Leadership – also known as the “ref resher Course” for Local Lay Speakers who are in need of tra ining. This course is designed to prepare church leaders to focus on their role as spiritual leaders in their congregati ons.            Potpourri                           3/14 -   Race and Religion - Listening to the Conversation on Race i s one thing, but we want you to actively join in on the conv ersation too! Information from General Commission on Race an d Relations.                       3/21 - Book Study “The Sh ack” – Everyone is reading this book by William P. Young. Th e book has becoming a hit and especially so among students a nd among those who are part of the Emergent Church. In this area many churches have read it and have had book discussion s. If you have not read the book, read it, and come and join the discussion.                       3/28 - UMCOR – Where We’ve Been – John Fritz, a Lay Speaker from the Hyde Park UM C and an instructor in our district speaks with personal kno wledge of his association with UMCOR.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100315T040000Z DTEND:20100317T035900Z SUMMARY:Engage Conflict Well, Case Studies DESCRIPTION:This seminar is open to any interested clergy.   Enrollment is limited to seven persons. 1.2 CEU credits.           All congregations experience conflict, and many experience inten se conflict.  This seminar is an opportunity for clergy to f ocus on a particular situation of conflict, past or present, as a way of reflecting broadly on issues relating to congre gational health, pastoral and lay leadership, and the develo pment of creative strategies for handling conflict in the pa rish.  In preparation for the seminar, participants will be asked to submit a brief written description of a specific co nflict.This seminar will focus on the application of analyti cal tools, Circle Process, and Healthy Congregations concept s (Family Systems Theory) to specific cases of conflict pres ented by the participants.   There are no prerequisites for this seminar, however I will suggest some advance reading pa rticularly for persons who have not had previous training in conflict theory, Circle Process, or Family Systems Theory i n relation to church conflict. The instructor will provid e a very brief summary of conflict theory in relation to con gregations. Individual participants will present a synops is of their conflict case. Participants will complete an analytical assessment of their case. Participants will ex plore strategies for engaging their conflicted situation cre atively.Rev. Scott Summerville, InstructorClick the "Related Link" below for more information and a registration form. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100316T040000Z DTEND:20100317T035900Z SUMMARY:Tax Seminar for Clergy and Spouses: Compensation and the IRS - Grace UMC, Southington, CT DESCRIPTION:Do you know: advantages of a 401(k) over an IRS? advan tages of a Roth IRA over a regular IRA? the shoots and la dders of your Social Security tax? the state gives you a tax break every year? a gift at the door from a grateful church needs to be taxed? how your UM pension works? Thes e and other questions will be answered at the Clergy & Spous e Tax Seminars scheduled throughout the conference during Ma rch. Rev. Fred Leasure, Executive Director of the Western PA UM Foundation and Dr. Keith Muhleman, President of the UM F rontier Foundation will attempt to make all things clear...a t least as clear as they can be for tax purposes!Join us...i t may help in April! Even if you have filed by March, you ca n re- file an amended return if you made an error and want t o avoid an audit OR get a bigger refund. Biography The Rev. Dr. Keith Muhleman is an ordained pastor related to the Wisc onsin Conference of the United Methodist Church. He attended West Virginia Wesleyan College and Claremont School of Theo logy in California. Keith’s background has included communic ation and fund raising leadership positions in Wisconsin, UM Com, the General Board of Global Ministries, the Dutch Refor m Church and the Diocese of the Armenian Church. He has serv ed secular organizations including The Norman Vincent and Ru th Stafford Peale Foundation, the Carter Foundation in Atlan ta, Arden Hill Hospital in Goshen, NY and the Cancer Researc h and Treatment Fund in New York City.He and his wife live i n Newburgh, New York.  Frederick H. Leasure, CFRE, has serve d as the Executive Director of the United Methodist Foundati on of Western Pennsylvania since 1983. He is responsible for the day-to-day operation and supervision of the ministry of the Foundation. Under his leadership, numerous endowments, scholarships, and other funding arrangements have been devel oped to support a wide variety of ministries.Fred is a much- sought-after teacher and lecturer on stewardship and related financial planning topicsA graduate of West Virginia Wesley an College and the Theological School of Drew University, Fr ed has also completed the Kennedy-Sinclaire and Philanthropy Tax Institute’s planned and deferred giving program, and nu merous seminars and courses in philanthropy and taxation thr ough both the University of Pittsburgh and Penn State Univer sity.Fred is an ordained Elder in the Western Pennsylvania A nnual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and, before being appointed to the Foundation, he served local churches in northwestern Pennsylvania and northern New Jersey. Fred is a member of the Board of Trustees at West Virginia Wesley an College. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100317T040000Z DTEND:20100319T035900Z SUMMARY:Cabinet Retreat DESCRIPTION:March 17-18 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100317T040000Z DTEND:20100318T035900Z SUMMARY:Tax Seminar for Clergy and Spouses: Compensation and the IRS - Poughkeepsie UMC DESCRIPTION:Do you know: advantages of a 401(k) over an IRS? advan tages of a Roth IRA over a regular IRA? the shoots and la dders of your Social Security tax? the state gives you a tax break every year? a gift at the door from a grateful church needs to be taxed? how your UM pension works? Thes e and other questions will be answered at the Clergy & Spous e Tax Seminars scheduled throughout the conference during Ma rch. Rev. Fred Leasure, Executive Director of the Western PA UM Foundation and Dr. Keith Muhleman, President of the UM F rontier Foundation will attempt to make all things clear...a t least as clear as they can be for tax purposes!Join us...i t may help in April! Even if you have filed by March, you ca n re- file an amended return if you made an error and want t o avoid an audit OR get a bigger refund. Biography The Rev. Dr. Keith Muhleman is an ordained pastor related to the Wisc onsin Conference of the United Methodist Church. He attended West Virginia Wesleyan College and Claremont School of Theo logy in California. Keith’s background has included communic ation and fund raising leadership positions in Wisconsin, UM Com, the General Board of Global Ministries, the Dutch Refor m Church and the Diocese of the Armenian Church. He has serv ed secular organizations including The Norman Vincent and Ru th Stafford Peale Foundation, the Carter Foundation in Atlan ta, Arden Hill Hospital in Goshen, NY and the Cancer Researc h and Treatment Fund in New York City.He and his wife live i n Newburgh, New York.  Frederick H. Leasure, CFRE, has serve d as the Executive Director of the United Methodist Foundati on of Western Pennsylvania since 1983. He is responsible for the day-to-day operation and supervision of the ministry of the Foundation. Under his leadership, numerous endowments, scholarships, and other funding arrangements have been devel oped to support a wide variety of ministries.Fred is a much- sought-after teacher and lecturer on stewardship and related financial planning topicsA graduate of West Virginia Wesley an College and the Theological School of Drew University, Fr ed has also completed the Kennedy-Sinclaire and Philanthropy Tax Institute’s planned and deferred giving program, and nu merous seminars and courses in philanthropy and taxation thr ough both the University of Pittsburgh and Penn State Univer sity.Fred is an ordained Elder in the Western Pennsylvania A nnual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and, before being appointed to the Foundation, he served local churches in northwestern Pennsylvania and northern New Jersey. Fred is a member of the Board of Trustees at West Virginia Wesley an College. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100318T040000Z DTEND:20100319T035900Z SUMMARY:Board of Ordained Ministry Plenary Meeting DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100318T040000Z DTEND:20100319T035900Z SUMMARY:Tax Seminar for Clergy and Spouses: Compensation and the IRS - North Shore UMC DESCRIPTION:Do you know: advantages of a 401(k) over an IRS? advan tages of a Roth IRA over a regular IRA? the shoots and la dders of your Social Security tax? the state gives you a tax break every year? a gift at the door from a grateful church needs to be taxed? how your UM pension works? Thes e and other questions will be answered at the Clergy & Spous e Tax Seminars scheduled throughout the conference during Ma rch. Rev. Fred Leasure, Executive Director of the Western PA UM Foundation and Dr. Keith Muhleman, President of the UM F rontier Foundation will attempt to make all things clear...a t least as clear as they can be for tax purposes!Join us...i t may help in April! Even if you have filed by March, you ca n re- file an amended return if you made an error and want t o avoid an audit OR get a bigger refund. Biography The Rev. Dr. Keith Muhleman is an ordained pastor related to the Wisc onsin Conference of the United Methodist Church. He attended West Virginia Wesleyan College and Claremont School of Theo logy in California. Keith’s background has included communic ation and fund raising leadership positions in Wisconsin, UM Com, the General Board of Global Ministries, the Dutch Refor m Church and the Diocese of the Armenian Church. He has serv ed secular organizations including The Norman Vincent and Ru th Stafford Peale Foundation, the Carter Foundation in Atlan ta, Arden Hill Hospital in Goshen, NY and the Cancer Researc h and Treatment Fund in New York City.He and his wife live i n Newburgh, New York.  Frederick H. Leasure, CFRE, has serve d as the Executive Director of the United Methodist Foundati on of Western Pennsylvania since 1983. He is responsible for the day-to-day operation and supervision of the ministry of the Foundation. Under his leadership, numerous endowments, scholarships, and other funding arrangements have been devel oped to support a wide variety of ministries.Fred is a much- sought-after teacher and lecturer on stewardship and related financial planning topicsA graduate of West Virginia Wesley an College and the Theological School of Drew University, Fr ed has also completed the Kennedy-Sinclaire and Philanthropy Tax Institute’s planned and deferred giving program, and nu merous seminars and courses in philanthropy and taxation thr ough both the University of Pittsburgh and Penn State Univer sity.Fred is an ordained Elder in the Western Pennsylvania A nnual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and, before being appointed to the Foundation, he served local churches in northwestern Pennsylvania and northern New Jersey. Fred is a member of the Board of Trustees at West Virginia Wesley an College. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100320T040000Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Catskill Hudson Lenten Lay Speaking Ministries School DESCRIPTION: Greetings – Happy New Year – may your 2010 be filled with l ove and kindness and the Spirit of God all around you.We hav e listened to your requested for courses; we have listened t o locations; we have listened to choices of days; we have li stened to the geographic areas of our district. And, we are trying something new for us. Catskill Hudson District will i naugurate its first annual Lenten Lay Ministries School – no t in one location…..but in two locations. This event is an o pportunity for Lay Speakers new and old to network and conne ct in areas of common interests, needs and possibilities. Th e school works in the following way –  You come together one morning (Reservoir) or one evening (Monticello) a week d uring Lent.  Pick a course you wish to take. The selectio ns in each location are a result of the information provided on the surveys many of you completed during the summer. The beginning of the session will be networking and fellowsh ip time. Proceed to your designated course. You will n ote “Potpourri” Courses and they are free for anyone. They a re one time sessions on topics of interest.Thank you in adva nced to those instructors who have committed to teaching. Th is is an exciting opportunity. I am looking forward to meeti ng new people from throughout the District. As you know, the weather is very unpredictable and we will provide those who register with a “weather person” who will be the point of c ontact in case of inclement weather. So let us all move forw ard and celebrate this new venture in the Lay Speaking Minis tries. A bit about each course:Reservoir:     Basic Lay Spea king Course – the foundation for your role as a Lay Speaker. It offers guidelines for best practices as a church leader and outlines a number of ministries in which lay speakers ca n have an important role.     Spiritual Gifts – an advanced course which focuses on acquiring a better understanding of your own gifts and how you can become more equipped to lead with these gifts     Leading Bible Study – this advanced cou rse is designed to help lay speakers become versed in how to teach and lead a Bible study.     Potpourri:     Book Study “The Shack” – Everyone is reading this book by William P. Y oung. The book has becoming a hit and especially so among st udents and among those who are part of the Emergent Church. In this area many churches have read it and have had book di scussions. If you have not read the book, read it, and come and join the discussion. The Lay Speaking Ministries Committ ee is certainly looking forward to these events – won’t you consider joining us?  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100320T040000Z DTEND:20100321T035900Z SUMMARY:Long Island West District School of Lay Speaking Ministries DESCRIPTION:Youth, Beginner, Certified and Advanced CoursesQUEENS/NASSAU CAMPUSUM CHURCH of FLORAL PARK  35 Verbena Ave., Floral Par k, NY  11001 (516) 354- 4969 Click to get directions>>                       BROOKLYN CAMPUS (NEW location!!)UNION UM CHU RCH 121 New York Ave., Brooklyn, NY  11216\(718) 467- 0458Cl ick to get directions>>Certified / Advanced Course:  “Lay Sp eakers are Servant Leaders” (mandatory)“Christian Stewardshi p” (Brooklyn Campus Only)“Bereavement Ministry” (Queens/Nass au Campus Only) (Youth, Beginner & Servant Leader courses wi ll be offered at both campuses)January 9 and 23, February 6 and 20, March 6 and 20  Closing Worship and Fellowship on Ma rch 27 at Brooklyn campus  Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p .m. (includes a 30 minute break)We have beverages … Please b ring your own breakfast / lunch / snack!REGISTRATION FEESYou th - $15.00     Beginners, Certified & Advanced - $25.00(Inc ludes all texts and printed materials)REGISTRATION DEADLINE:   December 10, 2009(ALL late registrations add $10.00 per pe rson – NO EXCEPTIONS!!!)Applications can be obtained from yo ur Pastor.  You must indicate at the top of your application which location you select.  If you do not, one will be sele cted for you.  Only one location may be chosen for the entir e semester.Click here to view the flyer >>Click here to down load the registration form>>Questions?: Denise Jakaitis: 914 -669-5264  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100320T040000Z DTEND:20100321T035900Z SUMMARY:NY/CT District Lay Speaker Ministry Course for 2010 DESCRIPTION:Six Saturdays from 8:30* am to 3:45 January 9 & 23; February 6 & 20; March 6 & 20.  *first day is 8amDo you know your sp iritual gifts? (why not?)Want to learn the roots of Methodis m? (it’s fun!)Take the next step on your spiritual journey? (yes?)The NY/CT District Lay Speaker Ministry Course for 201 0 prepares laity to provide a ministry of caring, leadership , and communicating God’s word.Current Lay Speakers: You may also take certain classes as an Advanced class.Tell your fr iends who may not want to become a Lay Speaker that they are welcome to sign up for individual classes.This is for all l ay people, to open new doors for ministry and energize your church. Our District Superintendent and our Bishop, strongly support this course.The program includes classes on: Pla nning and Developing a Sermon: Rev. Ken Kieffer (D. S. – Con necticut District) Teaching and Preaching New Testament: Rev. Bill Pfohl (Jesse Lee Ridgefield) Teaching and Preac hing the Old Testament: Rev. Gordon Bienvenue (Riverhead UMC ) Public Speaking: Dennis Castiglia (Connecticut District Lay Speaking committee) Healing Ministry (in the Methodi st tradition) & How to Pray: Pastor Debbi Mygatt (Dir. Praye r & Healing Jesse Lee) Discerning Spiritual Gifts: Marie Bell (NY/Ct. Lay Speaking committee) Methodist Doctrine a nd Polity: Rev. Bill Pfohl Why it’s Cool to be Methodist: Rev. Roy Grubbs (Yorktown) Designing a Worship Service: Elaine Winward (Dir. NY/Ct Lay Speaking) and Rev. Karen Karp ow Interactive Preaching: Rev. Ann Pearson (Conference Di rector of Connectional Ministries) Evangelism: Pastor Ste ve Knutsen (Pleasant Valley UMC & Bengall)Click here to view full schedule >>Click here to download the registration for m>>Cost: $35.00 (Scholarships available and travel time cons idered.  Also early bird, if you sign up by Dec. 1 deduct $5 .00)NOTE: If you don’t wish to become a Lay Speaker you can also sign up for certain sessions, marked with an *asterisk : $6. eachFor current Lay Speakers: You may also take 3 or 4 of the classes, (depending on the length) marked with an *a sterisk, as an Advanced Class.  Cost is $20(again, scholarsh ips available)Questions?: Elaine Winward:  914 669-5264  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100320T040000Z DTEND:20100321T035900Z SUMMARY:Safe Sanctuaries Workshop - Advanced/ Part 2- Amityville, NY DESCRIPTION:Snacks are provided.Click here to review the descriptions of our Safe Sanctuaries Workshops>> END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100320T040000Z DTEND:20100321T035900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Men Executive Committee DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100320T040000Z DTEND:20100321T035900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Men; Luncheon with the Bishop DESCRIPTION: Join the NYAC UMM and Bishop Park in celebrating 100 years of boy scouting in this 12th annual luncheon at Memorial UMC in White Plains, NY. The cost is $30; All Scouts attending the 12–2:30 p.m. luncheon in uniform will pay half price. Th e Bishop’s Award for Excellence will be presented and Torch Award winners will be recognized. Before March 16, send your registration information (church name, address, phone, chur ch contact and list of attendees) and a check made payable t o “NYAC UMM,” to John Lemon, Financial Secretary, 645 Westch ester Ave., Apt. 17C, Bronx, NY 10455. For questions or furt her information, contact Lemon at 917-365-7850. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100321T040000Z DTEND:20100322T035900Z SUMMARY:2010 Lenten School DESCRIPTION:The 2010 Lenten School will be again held at Grace United Me thodist Church in Newburgh, NY during the six Sundays of Len t (February 21st, February 28th, March 7th, March 14th, Marc h 21st, and March 28th). The schedule will be 4:00 – 4:30 S oup and Sandwiches 4:40 – 5:00 A b rief worship service 5:00 – 7:30 C lass time    The 2010 Lenten School w ill consist of the following courses of general interest: A six week Lenten Bible Study A two-week study “Paths to the Ministry”  — information on what paths are available fo r ministry in the United Methodist Church — scheduled for 2/ 21 and 2/28 A two-week study on funeral ministry — schedu led for 3/21 and 3/28 Workshop on basic nutrition —  “You r Body as a Temple” — 3/21; followed by a workshop on counti ng carbohydrates, specifically for those with diabetes and p re-diabetes or who have high tri-glycerides —  3/28 Works hop on Prayer — dates to be determined (3 weeks) Workshop s on Spiritual Discipline — 3/7 Workshop on being an acol yte, greeter, and usher— date to be determined A six week devotional study for middle school, junior high and high sc hool students. (We are looking for individuals to help lead this study; we would especially like to have one or two male teachers to assist in the planning and leadership.)There is no charge for the above courses. Pre-registration is highly recommended.There will also be a series of courses designed for those interested in becoming a Local Lay Speaker or a C ertified Speaker in the United Methodist Church. For those i nterested in becoming a lay speaker, please review 266 - 268 in the Book of Discipline.  You must be a local lay speaker to take course for becoming a certified lay speaker and you must be either a local or certified lay speaker to take the refresher courses.Each of the following courses will run fo r the six weeks of the school.  Cost will be $35.00 with a $ 5.00 discount for those who register before 1 February 2010.   Contact Tony Mitchell (TonyMitchellPhD@verizon.net) to reg ister, registration information or requests for other course s.For those who are not presently a local or certified lay s peaker:  Basic Course in Lay Speaking Course in Sermon P lanningFor those who are currently a local lay speaker or ce rtified lay speaker, the following courses serve as advanced courses or refresher courses (reminder that each lay speake r, local and certified, must take a course once every three years to maintain status): Course in sermon planning C ourse in leading worship Additional course — topic to be announced A six-week workshop on “Technology in the Pulpi t” — course dealing with various ways to present the mission of the church outside traditional preaching (discussion and introduction to presentation methods, blogging, and other s ocial network methodologies) A six-week study — “Devotion al Life in the Wesleyan tradition"The total schedule is bein g developed.  We are looking for additional courses and indi viduals interested in teaching those courses.  Contact Tony Mitchell (TonyMitchellPhD@verizon.net) to register, registra tion information or requests for other courses.For additiona l information, contact Tony Mitchell (914-456-9247 or TonyMi tchellPhD@verizon.net) or Pastor Steve Knutsen (845-635-3540 or pastorsteveknutsen@verizon.net)   Please click on the "R elated Link" below for a printable copy of this information, and more information about END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100321T040000Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Catskill Hudson Lenten Lay Speaking Ministries School DESCRIPTION:Greetings – Happy New Year – may your 2010 be filled with lo ve and kindness and the Spirit of God all around you.We have listened to your requested for courses; we have listened to locations; we have listened to choices of days; we have lis tened to the geographic areas of our district. And, we are t rying something new for us. Catskill Hudson District will in augurate its first annual Lenten Lay Ministries School – not in one location…..but in two locations. This event is an op portunity for Lay Speakers new and old to network and connec t in areas of common interests, needs and possibilities. The school works in the following way –  You come together o ne morning (Reservoir) or one evening (Monticello) a week du ring Lent.  Pick a course you wish to take. The selection s in each location are a result of the information provided on the surveys many of you completed during the summer. T he beginning of the session will be networking and fellowshi p time. Proceed to your designated course. You will no te “Potpourri” Courses and they are free for anyone. They ar e one time sessions on topics of interest.Thank you in advan ced to those instructors who have committed to teaching. Thi s is an exciting opportunity. I am looking forward to meetin g new people from throughout the District. As you know, the weather is very unpredictable and we will provide those who register with a “weather person” who will be the point of co ntact in case of inclement weather. So let us all move forwa rd and celebrate this new venture in the Lay Speaking Minist ries. A bit about each course: Monticello:            Basic Lay Speaking Course – the foundation for your role as a Lay Speaker. It offers guidelines for best practices as a church leader and outlines a number of ministries in which lay spe akers can have an important role.            Lay Speakers Le ad in Outreach and Mission – this advance course helps lay s peakers understand the role of mission outreach in relations hip to the vision and ministry of the church.            Adv anced Preaching – this course goes beyond the basics of publ ic speaking and address the foundations necessary for prepar ing an engaging sermon, including types of sermons, using th e hymnal, children’s messages, presentation and practice.             Concepts in Leadership – also known as the “refresh er Course” for Local Lay Speakers who are in need of trainin g. This course is designed to prepare church leaders to focu s on their role as spiritual leaders in their congregations.             Potpourri                          3/21 - Book S tudy “The Shack” – Everyone is reading this book by William P. Young. The book has becoming a hit and especially so amon g students and among those who are part of the Emergent Chur ch. In this area many churches have read it and have had boo k discussions. If you have not read the book, read it, and c ome and join the discussion.                        3/28 - U MCOR – Where We’ve Been – John Fritz, a Lay Speaker from the Hyde Park UMC and an instructor in our district speaks with personal knowledge of his association with UMCOR.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100321T040000Z DTEND:20100322T035900Z SUMMARY:The Calling - A Celebration in Music and Dance for Everyone Seeking Their Mission DESCRIPTION:An opportunity to come, hear, see and enjoy Jana Stanfield's songs, The Sounds of Afrika drummers and  Moving in Grace d ancers on Sunday, March 21st at Danbury United Methodist Chu rch.There will be a Mission Fair beginning from 2 p.m. for a bout an hour and continue after concert.  If you are interes ted in displaying, please contact the NY/CT District Office at 203-348-9181 or e-mail nyctnyac@aol.com for the Request F orm or go see FORMS.Admission Free/Goodwill offeringFor info rmation, call 203-929-3537  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100322T040000Z DTEND:20100323T035900Z SUMMARY:GBHEM Continuing Education Clergy Group DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100322T040000Z DTEND:20100323T035900Z SUMMARY:Vacation Bible School DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100323T040000Z DTEND:20100324T035900Z SUMMARY:Conference Finance & Administration DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100324T040000Z DTEND:20100326T035900Z SUMMARY:Cabinet Retreat DESCRIPTION:March 24-25 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100324T040000Z DTEND:20100325T035900Z SUMMARY:Tax Seminar for Clergy and Spouses: Compensation and the IRS - Grace UMC, Valley Stream, NY DESCRIPTION:Do you know: advantages of a 401(k) over an IRS? advan tages of a Roth IRA over a regular IRA? the shoots and la dders of your Social Security tax? the state gives you a tax break every year? a gift at the door from a grateful church needs to be taxed? how your UM pension works? Thes e and other questions will be answered at the Clergy & Spous e Tax Seminars scheduled throughout the conference during Ma rch. Rev. Fred Leasure, Executive Director of the Western PA UM Foundation and Dr. Keith Muhleman, President of the UM F rontier Foundation will attempt to make all things clear...a t least as clear as they can be for tax purposes!Join us...i t may help in April! Even if you have filed by March, you ca n re- file an amended return if you made an error and want t o avoid an audit OR get a bigger refund. Biography The Rev. Dr. Keith Muhleman is an ordained pastor related to the Wisc onsin Conference of the United Methodist Church. He attended West Virginia Wesleyan College and Claremont School of Theo logy in California. Keith’s background has included communic ation and fund raising leadership positions in Wisconsin, UM Com, the General Board of Global Ministries, the Dutch Refor m Church and the Diocese of the Armenian Church. He has serv ed secular organizations including The Norman Vincent and Ru th Stafford Peale Foundation, the Carter Foundation in Atlan ta, Arden Hill Hospital in Goshen, NY and the Cancer Researc h and Treatment Fund in New York City.He and his wife live i n Newburgh, New York.  Frederick H. Leasure, CFRE, has serve d as the Executive Director of the United Methodist Foundati on of Western Pennsylvania since 1983. He is responsible for the day-to-day operation and supervision of the ministry of the Foundation. Under his leadership, numerous endowments, scholarships, and other funding arrangements have been devel oped to support a wide variety of ministries.Fred is a much- sought-after teacher and lecturer on stewardship and related financial planning topicsA graduate of West Virginia Wesley an College and the Theological School of Drew University, Fr ed has also completed the Kennedy-Sinclaire and Philanthropy Tax Institute’s planned and deferred giving program, and nu merous seminars and courses in philanthropy and taxation thr ough both the University of Pittsburgh and Penn State Univer sity.Fred is an ordained Elder in the Western Pennsylvania A nnual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and, before being appointed to the Foundation, he served local churches in northwestern Pennsylvania and northern New Jersey. Fred is a member of the Board of Trustees at West Virginia Wesley an College. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100325T040000Z DTEND:20100326T035900Z SUMMARY:Board of Ordained Ministry Candidacy Mentor Training DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100325T040000Z DTEND:20100326T035900Z SUMMARY:Board of Pension & Health Benefits DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100325T040000Z DTEND:20100326T035900Z SUMMARY:Tax Seminar for Clergy and Spouses: Compensation and the IRS - Reservoir UMC DESCRIPTION:Do you know: advantages of a 401(k) over an IRS? advan tages of a Roth IRA over a regular IRA? the shoots and la dders of your Social Security tax? the state gives you a tax break every year? a gift at the door from a grateful church needs to be taxed? how your UM pension works? Thes e and other questions will be answered at the Clergy & Spous e Tax Seminars scheduled throughout the conference during Ma rch. Rev. Fred Leasure, Executive Director of the Western PA UM Foundation and Dr. Keith Muhleman, President of the UM F rontier Foundation will attempt to make all things clear...a t least as clear as they can be for tax purposes!Join us...i t may help in April! Even if you have filed by March, you ca n re- file an amended return if you made an error and want t o avoid an audit OR get a bigger refund. Biography The Rev. Dr. Keith Muhleman is an ordained pastor related to the Wisc onsin Conference of the United Methodist Church. He attended West Virginia Wesleyan College and Claremont School of Theo logy in California. Keith’s background has included communic ation and fund raising leadership positions in Wisconsin, UM Com, the General Board of Global Ministries, the Dutch Refor m Church and the Diocese of the Armenian Church. He has serv ed secular organizations including The Norman Vincent and Ru th Stafford Peale Foundation, the Carter Foundation in Atlan ta, Arden Hill Hospital in Goshen, NY and the Cancer Researc h and Treatment Fund in New York City.He and his wife live i n Newburgh, New York.  Frederick H. Leasure, CFRE, has serve d as the Executive Director of the United Methodist Foundati on of Western Pennsylvania since 1983. He is responsible for the day-to-day operation and supervision of the ministry of the Foundation. Under his leadership, numerous endowments, scholarships, and other funding arrangements have been devel oped to support a wide variety of ministries.Fred is a much- sought-after teacher and lecturer on stewardship and related financial planning topicsA graduate of West Virginia Wesley an College and the Theological School of Drew University, Fr ed has also completed the Kennedy-Sinclaire and Philanthropy Tax Institute’s planned and deferred giving program, and nu merous seminars and courses in philanthropy and taxation thr ough both the University of Pittsburgh and Penn State Univer sity.Fred is an ordained Elder in the Western Pennsylvania A nnual Conference of The United Methodist Church, and, before being appointed to the Foundation, he served local churches in northwestern Pennsylvania and northern New Jersey. Fred is a member of the Board of Trustees at West Virginia Wesley an College. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100327T040000Z DTEND:20100328T035900Z SUMMARY:Long Island West District School of Lay Speaking Ministries - Closing Worship DESCRIPTION:Youth, Beginner, Certified and Advanced CoursesQUEENS/NASSAU CAMPUSUM CHURCH of FLORAL PARK  35 Verbena Ave., Floral Par k, NY  11001 (516) 354- 4969 Click to get directions>>                       BROOKLYN CAMPUS (NEW location!!)UNION UM CHU RCH 121 New York Ave., Brooklyn, NY  11216\(718) 467- 0458Cl ick to get directions>>Certified / Advanced Course:  “Lay Sp eakers are Servant Leaders” (mandatory)“Christian Stewardshi p” (Brooklyn Campus Only)“Bereavement Ministry” (Queens/Nass au Campus Only) (Youth, Beginner & Servant Leader courses wi ll be offered at both campuses)January 9 and 23, February 6 and 20, March 6 and 20  Closing Worship and Fellowship on Ma rch 27 at Brooklyn campus  Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p .m. (includes a 30 minute break)We have beverages … Please b ring your own breakfast / lunch / snack!REGISTRATION FEESYou th - $15.00     Beginners, Certified & Advanced - $25.00(Inc ludes all texts and printed materials)REGISTRATION DEADLINE:   December 10, 2009(ALL late registrations add $10.00 per pe rson – NO EXCEPTIONS!!!)Applications can be obtained from yo ur Pastor.  You must indicate at the top of your application which location you select.  If you do not, one will be sele cted for you.  Only one location may be chosen for the entir e semester.Click here to view the flyer >>Click here to down load the registration form>>Questions?: Denise Jakaitis: 914 -669-5264  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100327T040000Z DTEND:20100328T035900Z SUMMARY:Turn Aside and See DESCRIPTION:TURN ASIDE AND SEE is a one-day intensive experience for pas tors and other congregational leaders. Offered through GBOD' s Discipleship University, TURN ASIDE AND SEE invites indivi duals and teams to: Identify God's call through scripture Note excuses that hold their congregation back from answ ering God's call Determine assets for responding to God's call Commit to disciple-making in their congregation Mes sage from GBOD about TURN ASIDE AND SEE: At GBOD we believe that God is still calling congregations to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. We believ e that you and your congregation are blessed to be called in to leadership in a time of great transition. We believe that if congregational leaders take the time to “turn aside and see” what God is doing in the world, these leaders will burn with a passion for participating in God’s mission! Join us on March 27 as together we learn to follow the one who turne d the world upside down and is waiting for us to join him—Je sus Christ, our Lord and Savior!Here are a few of the commen ts from participants: Today has helped me to concentrate on my personal calling and what has been holding me back. Th anks! We are riding a wave of change and growth. Using “T urn Aside” in and with the congregation will help us ride th e wave well. By using all of our senses—the candles, the staffs, the stations—I was infused with new energy and a dee per understanding of my relationship with God and others. I will encourage others to see “what is in their hand.” I will be going home to my congregation with new eyes; looki ng to see what’s in my hand and challenging others to look a s well. I am a pastor wrestling with feelings of inadequa cy, so the whole focus of today was very helpful to me perso nally. What was presented was so important every congrega tion needs it. It was important just to be here. It was l ife-saving in many ways.Presenters Rev. Dr. K wasi Kena Director of Evangelism Ministries, GBOD  interview>>  Rev. Betsey Heavner Director of Congregational Leader Formation at the General Board of Discipleship  bio>> LocationRennaisance Westchester (jus t outside of White Plains)80 West Red Oak Lane, West Harriso n, NY 10604Web site: www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/hpnsh-re naissance-westchester-hotel/Date/Time   March 27, 2010 Regis tration and refreshments:  8:30  AM Program 9:30am  — 3:30 P MCost$35 per person, $30 per person for a team of 4 or more persons (includes lunch and participant materials)  Send che cks to NYAC, 20 Soundview Avenue, White Plains, NY 10606Lodg ingFor your convenience, the Renaissance Hotel Westchester h as rooms available for $99 per night (this is  not included in your registration fee) on March 26 for participants. If y ou would  like to reserve a room, please call the Rennaisanc e Westchester at 914-694-5400 and use the reservation code N EWNEWA.For More InformationCall (877) 899-2780, ext. 1760, o r email mmcdonald@gbod.org.  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100328T040000Z DTEND:20100329T035900Z SUMMARY:2010 Lenten School DESCRIPTION:The 2010 Lenten School will be again held at Grace United Me thodist Church in Newburgh, NY during the six Sundays of Len t (February 21st, February 28th, March 7th, March 14th, Marc h 21st, and March 28th). The schedule will be 4:00 – 4:30 S oup and Sandwiches 4:40 – 5:00 A b rief worship service 5:00 – 7:30 C lass time    The 2010 Lenten School w ill consist of the following courses of general interest: A six week Lenten Bible Study A two-week study “Paths to the Ministry”  — information on what paths are available fo r ministry in the United Methodist Church — scheduled for 2/ 21 and 2/28 A two-week study on funeral ministry — schedu led for 3/21 and 3/28 Workshop on basic nutrition —  “You r Body as a Temple” — 3/21; followed by a workshop on counti ng carbohydrates, specifically for those with diabetes and p re-diabetes or who have high tri-glycerides —  3/28 Works hop on Prayer — dates to be determined (3 weeks) Workshop s on Spiritual Discipline — 3/7 Workshop on being an acol yte, greeter, and usher— date to be determined A six week devotional study for middle school, junior high and high sc hool students. (We are looking for individuals to help lead this study; we would especially like to have one or two male teachers to assist in the planning and leadership.)There is no charge for the above courses. Pre-registration is highly recommended.There will also be a series of courses designed for those interested in becoming a Local Lay Speaker or a C ertified Speaker in the United Methodist Church. For those i nterested in becoming a lay speaker, please review 266 - 268 in the Book of Discipline.  You must be a local lay speaker to take course for becoming a certified lay speaker and you must be either a local or certified lay speaker to take the refresher courses.Each of the following courses will run fo r the six weeks of the school.  Cost will be $35.00 with a $ 5.00 discount for those who register before 1 February 2010.   Contact Tony Mitchell (TonyMitchellPhD@verizon.net) to reg ister, registration information or requests for other course s.For those who are not presently a local or certified lay s peaker:  Basic Course in Lay Speaking Course in Sermon P lanningFor those who are currently a local lay speaker or ce rtified lay speaker, the following courses serve as advanced courses or refresher courses (reminder that each lay speake r, local and certified, must take a course once every three years to maintain status): Course in sermon planning C ourse in leading worship Additional course — topic to be announced A six-week workshop on “Technology in the Pulpi t” — course dealing with various ways to present the mission of the church outside traditional preaching (discussion and introduction to presentation methods, blogging, and other s ocial network methodologies) A six-week study — “Devotion al Life in the Wesleyan tradition"The total schedule is bein g developed.  We are looking for additional courses and indi viduals interested in teaching those courses.  Contact Tony Mitchell (TonyMitchellPhD@verizon.net) to register, registra tion information or requests for other courses.For additiona l information, contact Tony Mitchell (914-456-9247 or TonyMi tchellPhD@verizon.net) or Pastor Steve Knutsen (845-635-3540 or pastorsteveknutsen@verizon.net)   Please click on the "R elated Link" below for a printable copy of this information, and more information about END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100328T040000Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:Catskill Hudson Lay Speaking Ministries School DESCRIPTION:Greetings – Happy New Year – may your 2010 be filled with lo ve and kindness and the Spirit of God all around you.We have listened to your requested for courses; we have listened to locations; we have listened to choices of days; we have lis tened to the geographic areas of our district. And, we are t rying something new for us. Catskill Hudson District will in augurate its first annual Lenten Lay Ministries School – not in one location…..but in two locations. This event is an op portunity for Lay Speakers new and old to network and connec t in areas of common interests, needs and possibilities. The school works in the following way –  You come together o ne morning (Reservoir) or one evening (Monticello) a week du ring Lent.  Pick a course you wish to take. The selection s in each location are a result of the information provided on the surveys many of you completed during the summer. T he beginning of the session will be networking and fellowshi p time. Proceed to your designated course. You will no te “Potpourri” Courses and they are free for anyone. They ar e one time sessions on topics of interest.Thank you in advan ced to those instructors who have committed to teaching. Thi s is an exciting opportunity. I am looking forward to meetin g new people from throughout the District. As you know, the weather is very unpredictable and we will provide those who register with a “weather person” who will be the point of co ntact in case of inclement weather. So let us all move forwa rd and celebrate this new venture in the Lay Speaking Minist ries. A bit about each course: Monticello:            Basic Lay Speaking Course – the foundation for your role as a Lay Speaker. It offers guidelines for best practices as a church leader and outlines a number of ministries in which lay spe akers can have an important role.            Lay Speakers Le ad in Outreach and Mission – this advance course helps lay s peakers understand the role of mission outreach in relations hip to the vision and ministry of the church.            Adv anced Preaching – this course goes beyond the basics of publ ic speaking and address the foundations necessary for prepar ing an engaging sermon, including types of sermons, using th e hymnal, children’s messages, presentation and practice.             Concepts in Leadership – also known as the “refresh er Course” for Local Lay Speakers who are in need of trainin g. This course is designed to prepare church leaders to focu s on their role as spiritual leaders in their congregations.             Potpourri                         UMCOR – Where We’ve Been – John Fritz, a Lay Speaker from the Hyde Park UM C and an instructor in our district speaks with personal kno wledge of his association with UMCOR.   END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100329T040000Z DTEND:20100330T035900Z SUMMARY:Cabinet Meeting DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100402T040000Z DTEND:20100405T035900Z SUMMARY:Conference Center Closed: Easter Observed DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100407T040000Z DTEND:20100409T035900Z SUMMARY:Cabinet Retreat DESCRIPTION:April 7-8 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100408T040000Z DTEND:20100412T035900Z SUMMARY:Walk to Emmaus for Women DESCRIPTION:If your Walk to Emmaus, Chrysalis or Tres Dias Weekend Touch ed YouPlease Pray about who God would have you Sponsor forth e Upcoming Walk to Emmaus #35 Women's Walk - April 8th - 11t h 2010Men's Walk - April 29th - May 2nd 2010 Please feel fre e to print out the Application by clicking the "Related Link " below and "Let God Lead You to a Pilgrim. De Colores" For more information about this event, please visit: www.nyacwal ktoemmaus.org  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100410T040000Z DTEND:20100411T035900Z SUMMARY:VBS Teacher Training: Mountain View DESCRIPTION:Teacher Training Workshops; materials for summer Sunday Scho ol.To register call Lynda Gomi at 914-615-2219, or email lea rningcenter@nyac.com. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100410T040000Z DTEND:20100411T035900Z SUMMARY:VBS Teacher Training: Smithtown DESCRIPTION:Teacher Training Workshops; materials for summer Sunday Scho ol.To register call Lynda Gomi at 914-615-2219, or email lea rningcenter@nyac.com. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100410T040000Z DTEND:20100411T035900Z SUMMARY:Youth Ambassadors in Mission DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100412T040000Z DTEND:20100417T035900Z SUMMARY:NY Methodist Hospital Health Clinic DESCRIPTION:For clergy and their spouses. See "Related Link" below for m ore information. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100414T040000Z DTEND:20100416T035900Z SUMMARY:Cabinet Retreat DESCRIPTION:April 14-15 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100414T040000Z DTEND:20100415T035900Z SUMMARY:PATH1GBOD DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100414T040000Z DTEND:20100415T035900Z SUMMARY:Pre-Retirement Seminar DESCRIPTION:The Conference Board of Pensions and Health Benefits invites you to attend a pre-retirement seminar for clergy and spous es and lay employees (vested in the General Board Pension pr ogram) in the LearningCenter at the ConferenceCenter in Whit e Plains. This will be limited to 50 participants including spouses who may wish to attend.Our program for the day will be an overview of the UM retirement plans and the Social Sec urity program. Please make your reservation prior to March 1 9th by calling Pat Perruccio at 914-997-1570 ext. 229 or sen ding her an email pperruccio@nyac.com. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100415T040000Z DTEND:20100417T035900Z SUMMARY:Paul Nixon - Part 2 Seminar "I Refuse to Lead a Dying Church !" DESCRIPTION:Pastor, sought-after speaker, author of the best-selling boo k I Refuse to Lead a Dying Church! is back with the clergy o f the New York Annual Conference for an overnight seminar to dig a little deeper and continue the conversation began las t fall at the Bishop’s Retreat.Paul Nixon Bio:Paul Nixon aut hor of the Pilgrim Press Best Seller I Refuse to Lead a Dyin g Church. Paul is a United Methodist pastor of 25 years expe rience, having worked in rural, small town, suburban and cen tral city parishes. For nine years, he was part of the pasto ral team of Gulf Breeze United Methodist Church on the north west Florida coast, during a time when its membership double d from 2000 to 4000 persons and the church planted a second campus, with Paul as lead pastor. The east campus of Gulf Br eeze grew to 650 worship attendance in its first three years under Paul's leadership. Since 1995, he has consulted or co ached approximately 200 churches in nine denominations all a cross North America.To read about Paul Nixon's visit to the Bishop’s Clergy Retreat last September, click here>>  Regist rationOnline via link below, now through April 8.Registratio n Costs for Accomodations and Meals1 night, single occupancy — $1501 night, double occupancy — $110 (please indicate you r roommate during registration)Commuters — $81Payment1) You may use PayPal in order to pay by Visa, Mastercard, American Express or Discover to pay for your registration and lodgin g expenses during the registration process. The only way you can use your credit card to pay for this event  is by going through PayPal (no account is necessary).2) To pay by check , fill out your registration online then mail your check wit hin 5 days to:Make check payable to "New York Annual Confere nce"Mail to:20 Soundview Ave.White Plains, NY 10606Direction sClick here for directions to the Stony Point Conference Cen ter>> END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100417T040000Z DTEND:20100418T035900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Men Executive Committee DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100417T040000Z DTEND:20100418T035900Z SUMMARY:VBS Teacher Training: NYAC Conference Ctr DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100424T040000Z DTEND:20100425T035900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Women (COM) DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100424T040000Z DTEND:20100425T035900Z SUMMARY:VBS Teacher Training: Danbury DESCRIPTION:Teacher Training Workshops; materials for summer Sunday Scho ol.To register call Lynda Gomi at 914-615-2219, or email lea rningcenter@nyac.com. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100427T040000Z DTEND:20100428T035900Z SUMMARY:Conference Finance & Administration DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100429T040000Z DTEND:20100503T035900Z SUMMARY:Assembly DESCRIPTION:4/29 - 5/2/2010 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100429T040000Z DTEND:20100503T035900Z SUMMARY:Walk to Emmaus for Men DESCRIPTION:If your Walk to Emmaus, Chrysalis or Tres Dias Weekend Touch ed YouPlease Pray about who God would have you Sponsor forth e Upcoming Walk to Emmaus #35 Women's Walk - April 8th - 11t h 2010Men's Walk - April 29th - May 2nd 2010 Please feel fre e to print out the Application by clicking the "Related Link " below and "Let God Lead You to a Pilgrim. De Colores" For more information about this event, please visit: www.nyacwal ktoemmaus.org  END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100508T040000Z DTEND:20100509T035900Z SUMMARY:Bishop's Confirmation Rally DESCRIPTION:The Bishop’s Confirmation Rally is planned for 9:30am to 2:3 0pm at Jesse Lee Memorial UMC in Ridgefield, Conn. It will b e a fun day of worship, workshops, games, fellowship. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100508T040000Z DTEND:20100509T035900Z SUMMARY:Cooperative School of Christian Mission DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100508T040000Z DTEND:20100509T035900Z SUMMARY:VIM Mozambique Executive Committee DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100515T040000Z DTEND:00010102T045900Z SUMMARY:"Rethink Worship" DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100515T040000Z DTEND:20100516T035900Z SUMMARY:Board of Ordained Ministry Plenary Meeting DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100515T040000Z DTEND:20100516T035900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Men Executive Committee DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100518T040000Z DTEND:20100519T035900Z SUMMARY:Conference Finance & Administration DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100522T040000Z DTEND:20100523T035900Z SUMMARY:Safe Sanctuaries Workshop, Writing a Safe Sanctuary Policy DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100527T040000Z DTEND:20100528T035900Z SUMMARY:Board of Ordained Ministry — Rehearsal Dinner with Candidate s and Cabinet DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100527T040000Z DTEND:20100528T035900Z SUMMARY:Board of Pension & Health Benefits DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100609T040000Z DTEND:20100613T035900Z SUMMARY:New York Annual Conference 2010 DESCRIPTION:New York Annual Conference • Hofstra University • June 9-12, 2010DetailsClick here to review important information and i nstructions PRIOR to registering>>Please be sure your plans are final before you register. DO NOT register more than onc e! If you need to adjust your registration after you have su bmitted it, please send an email to the event registrar, Mar va Usher-Kerr at registrar@nyac.com. Thank you for you coope ration.RegistrationFrom now through June 5: Please fill out your registration on-line by clicking the orange link "Regis ter for this Event" below.After June 5: Registrations will b e taken at the Registration Desk at Annual Conference.Regist ration Fee (covers event and meals; housing is additional) Early Bird — prior to May 1 - $215 Advance Registration — May 1 through June 5 - $240 Retirees – Thursday only - $37 Walk-in Registration — from June 6 and throughout th e Conference, all registrations will be handled at the regis tration desk at Hofstra. The registration fee at the Confere nce will be $265, payable only by check.Payment1) You may us e PayPal in order to pay by Visa, Mastercard, American Expre ss or Discover to pay for your registration and lodging expe nses during the registration process. The only way you can u se your credit card to pay for Annual Conference is by going through PayPal.2) To pay by check, make it payable to the " New York Annual Conference"  and promptly mail to:New York A nnual Conference20 Soundview AvenueWhite Plains NY 10606Hote l OptionsFor those who wish to stay at a hotel instead of th e available Hofstra Housing, click here for a list of area h otels with special rates. Number of rooms at our special rat e is limited. Deadline for reservations is April 30, 2010.Di rectionsClick here for directions to Hofstra University>>Ple ase DO NOT REGISTER MORE THAN ONCE. If you register, then ne ed to make changes to your registration, please send an emai l to the conference registrar, Marva Usher-Kerr at registrar @nyac.com with your changes. Thank you! END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100612T040000Z DTEND:20100613T035900Z SUMMARY:Momentum of Ministry DESCRIPTION:Have you joined a United Methodist Church since 2004? You ar e especially invitedto join us with your family, your church family and friends.10am-1pm Outside Hofstra Arena -- experi ence over 50 ministries in action!1pm-4pm Inside the Arena - - Be inspired by the powerful preaching of Bishop James Swan son!Reservations for Saturday will be accepted beginning Apr il 1. Watch for detailsClick the "Related Link" below to vie w the invitation flyer.         END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100619T040000Z DTEND:20100620T035900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Men Executive Committee DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100622T040000Z DTEND:20100623T035900Z SUMMARY:Conference Finance & Administration DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100623T040000Z DTEND:20100624T035900Z SUMMARY:Parish Development DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100626T040000Z DTEND:20100627T035900Z SUMMARY:Metropolitant District Committee on Education DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100628T040000Z DTEND:20100702T035900Z SUMMARY:Cooperative School of Christian Mission, Regional School DESCRIPTION: Upper Atlantic Regional School of Christian Mission,Charles ton University, Charleston, West VirginiaMonday, 6/28 - Thur sday 7/1/2010 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100701T040000Z DTEND:20100711T035900Z SUMMARY:Mountains of Hope — VIM Trip to Haiti DESCRIPTION:Four Trips Available in 2010:February 12th to February 20th, 2010March 12th to March 20th, 2010End of May to early June, 2010, exact dates TBDJuly 1st to July 10th, 2010Please clic k the "Related Link" below for more information including te am leader information and estimated costs. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100717T040000Z DTEND:20100718T035900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Men Executive Committee DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100722T040000Z DTEND:20100725T035900Z SUMMARY:Cooperative School of Christian Mission DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100911T040000Z DTEND:20100912T035900Z SUMMARY:Cooperative School of Christian Mission DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100918T040000Z DTEND:20100919T035900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Men Executive Committee DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100918T040000Z DTEND:20100919T035900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Women (COM) DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100918T040000Z DTEND:20100919T035900Z SUMMARY:VIM Mozambique Executive Committee DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100923T040000Z DTEND:20100924T035900Z SUMMARY:Board of Pension & Health Benefits DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100924T040000Z DTEND:20100927T035900Z SUMMARY:Monthly Retreat for Wellspring VIII - Class of 2010-2012 DESCRIPTION:The staff of Wellspring greets you in the name of Christ. It is encouraging to know of your interest in Christian format ion. Jesus has provided us with the gift of Christian commun ity in order that we grow in faith and Christian discipleshi p.Wellspring is a two-year spiritual growth program for lait y and clergy, it is inclusive in the selection of participan ts, and is sponsored by the New York Annual Conference of th e United Methodist Church. It is open to all persons who are seeking God and wish to grow in Christian community with ot her seekers.You are invited to consider the following inform ation for Wellspring and to make application. The applicatio n provides you with reflective questions for personal discer nment (Part One); specification of essay questions and refer ence letters (Part Two); a general information sheet to be c ompleted (Part Three); tuition and financial aid information (Part Four).Please click on the "related link" below for al l of the information about these retreats. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20100928T040000Z DTEND:20100929T035900Z SUMMARY:Conference Finance & Administration DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20101009T040000Z DTEND:20101010T035900Z SUMMARY:Board of Ordained Ministry Plenary Meeting DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20101014T040000Z DTEND:20101015T035900Z SUMMARY:Order of Elders — Clergy Day Apart DESCRIPTION:The Order of Elders will gather for a day apart on Thursday, Oct. 14, at the Memorial/Central Korean United Methodist Ch urch in White Plains, N.Y. We will begin at 9 a.m., and adjo urn by 3 p.m. Even though the Order of Elders sponsors this event, it is open to all clergy members of our conference. P lease plan to join our sacred time together for spiritual re newal and growth. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20101016T040000Z DTEND:20101017T035900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Men Executive Committee DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20101023T040000Z DTEND:20101024T035900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Women Annual Meeting DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Harriet Olsen, Deputy General Secretary of the Wome n’s Division END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20101026T040000Z DTEND:20101027T035900Z SUMMARY:Conference Finance & Administration DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20101029T040000Z DTEND:20101031T035900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Men Retreat DESCRIPTION:Details to follow as we get closer to the event date. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20101108T050000Z DTEND:20101113T045900Z SUMMARY:NY Methodist Hospital Health Clinic DESCRIPTION:For clergy and their spouses. See "Related Link" below for m ore information. END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20101109T050000Z DTEND:20101112T045900Z SUMMARY:Elder's Event DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20101113T050000Z DTEND:20101114T045900Z SUMMARY:Mozambique VIM DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20101113T050000Z DTEND:20101114T045900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Women District Officer Training DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20101118T050000Z DTEND:20101119T045900Z SUMMARY:Board of Pension & Health Benefits DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20101120T050000Z DTEND:20101121T045900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Men Executive Committee DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20101123T050000Z DTEND:20101124T045900Z SUMMARY:Conference Finance & Administration DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20101218T050000Z DTEND:20101219T045900Z SUMMARY:United Methodist Men Executive Committee Holiday Lunch DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART:20110503T040000Z DTEND:20110507T035900Z SUMMARY:Order of Elders Retreat DESCRIPTION: END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR