July 6, 2021

Telling the Story

“If people have the option to worship online anywhere in the world, with churches that have giant budgets and production teams, what is it that keeps them joining us online each week?” In reflecting on this question, North Cross UMC Worship Pastor Rev. Mary Saou realized emphasizing the unique ways we can minister to our particular group of folks is pretty doable in a sermon. But how do you do that with your worship in song? She struggled with this question for a good while. Then she thought about some of the most meaningful worship experiences she’d had, both in leading and in participating, and realized that STORY was a huge missing link! Read Mary's full reflection on storytelling and worship →

Upcoming Events

PML Introduction Course Part-Time Ministerial Leaders, or PML, is an educational multi-tool that is designed to be both a program (like a degree) and individual courses (freestanding course opportunities). Its dual purpose fulfills four educational needs in our Conference. If you’ve recently completed licensing school or a part- or full-time local pastor in need of a regular Course of Study course, PML has options for you. Learn more at www.moumethodist.org/pml Other Upcoming Events While we'll have fall events to announce soon, we invite you to recharge and reconnect this summer. See our full event calendar — including district office hours and save-the-dates for fall events — at www.moumethodist.org/events

Featured Resource

Workshop: The 4 Pillars of a Multicultural Organization

View the video recording of and accompanying conversation guide for the 4 Pillars of a Multicultural Organization led by Nikki Lerner as a part of MOAC20 KINDOM. Nikki Lerner is a singer, author, speaker and culture coach based in the Baltimore/Washington, D.C. area. She uses music and creative arts as a tool to bring people together cross-culturally and share a message of unity and reconciliation in a unique and powerful way that lectures, how-tos, sermons or books just cannot accomplish. Nikki was our worship leader for MOAC21. View the workshop recording →

More Resources

Leaving Well Webinars: Pastoral Transitions for the Family with Amy Thompson
Amy Thompson, a licensed clinical social worker and the Missouri Conference Lay Leader, walks through transitions by developmental stages, incorporating real stories of Missouri clergy and their families as part of the Leaving Well Webinar series, which examines how pastors and churches can best navigate pastoral transition.

GCORR's Expanding the Table Podcast
"Expanding the Table" is GCORR's new podcast on practicing anti-racism.
Currently two episodes are available: Episode one centers on racism, police reform and faith. In episode 2, three Asian-American Christian theologians examine the history and current realities of anti-Asian racism in the United States and what every Christian should know and do.

New Places Grants
Congregational Excellence is accepting grant applications from now until September 15 from churches that are establishing new places for new people. The first step is to fill out a worksheet and submit it to your District Superintendent.