Resolve to learn something new

We're only a week into 2015 so it is certainly not too late to make a resolution to learn. The 2015 General Assembly in Columbus, Ohio, is a perfect opportunity to learn more about God's work in the world whether through a learning community, a thought-provoking worship experience, a conversation over a meal or a challenging message from one of our speakers.

The learning communities will kick off with core lectures on Sunday afternoon, July 19. Among those scheduled to speak are those who have been, like you, on the front lines of innovation, administration, global and ecumenical relationships, faith formation experiences and justice issues. On Monday morning, you can go straight to the next phase - DOC Talks. In these sessions modeled loosely on the short lecture style of TedTalks, you will hear further reflections on Sunday's lectures from up to four Disciples in a burst of one 21-minute talk and three 7-minute talks with discussions intermixed. Then on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings you can dig into a variety of working sessions. (See the website and scroll down to the individual tracks.) AND you can earn 1.5 continuing education credits (CEUs) by registering through Buffalo Seminary of Bethany College.

There are many other ways to learn about the Church and our mission "from our doorsteps to the ends of the earth." In the exhibit hall you can talk with the general ministry staff who can talk with you about your local mission efforts, learning resources, your administration questions and more. You can be inspired by talking to Global Ministries staff who are living out accompaniment across the world, find out about human trafficking from Disciples Women or check out new initiatives from National Benevolent Association and its partnerships. And you can discover ways to maximize your congregation's resources for God's mission through Disciples Church Extension Fund, Hope Partnership for Missional Transformation and Christian Church Foundation. That's less than half of the many ministries represented at the General Assembly.

Besides the learning tracks and exhibit halls, many ministries and educational institutions have meal events where you can find out more about their work. (It also saves walking down the streets in search of a meal!) Most of those are listed and ready to receive your reservation and payment on the General Assembly website. (If you've already registered, log back in to add a meal.)

So get registered now before the early bird discount expires and be ready to SOAR! (For more information on schedules, lodging and more, go to ga.disciples.org.)