I am writing from Leawood, Kansas' United Methodist Church of the Resurrection.  I am here with church members Lavon Carter, Britt Bradley and Marian Lembke and with Director of Student Ministires, Brad Remington for Church of the Resurrection's Leadership Institute.

 

We are here with 630 other churches from all over the United States.  We have heard some inspiring stories of transformation of both personal lives and individual churches in the United Methodist Church.  This is a time of renewal and a time of learning for all of us.  It serves as a mini-retreat for me each fall.  We are blessed to be here representing Pleasant Valley and representing a great number of people seeking to bring quality, inspiration and passion to the church, wherever we are.

 

Many of you may be wondering about "5 Practices for Fruitful Congregations," as we begin the five weeks of worship and study together.  All of the groups have met this week and we have over 150 adults and youth participating in this great study.  If you would still like to be part of a group, you will have that opportunit by either contacting the church office or signing up in the room outside the sanctuary Sunday. 

 

This Sunday also marks the day that I hold "Pizza with the Pastor."  I do this class with our Evangelism Team as well as the New Member Care Team to help prospective new members get ready to serve Jesus Christ through Pleasant Valley UMC.  Pray for the small groups and take the time to pray for those who will be participating in "Pizza with the Pastor."