Connectional Ministries

The Office of Connectional Ministries has two grant opportunities for local churches:   The Peace with Justice Grant provides seed money for any local church, district, conference, or agency that has a desire to work and support mercy and justice efforts and who seeks to offer peaceful solutions through Christian discipleship and living out the love and grace of God. Examples include developing disciples who strive to end poverty, being graceful to those at the margins, connecting with people ...

Click here to view and print the November 5 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the November 5 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 32 pages)

Advent/Christmas We hope the resources provided in this edition will help jumpstart your planning and give you new ideas for this "season." Advent will be here before you know it!    _________________________________________ N  U  R  T  U  R  E Take the Online Advent Quiz: (Download), print and share the Advent Quiz with your church, family & friends!  Chuck Knows Church: The Advent Wreath (Video 3 minutes) New Ways to Celebrate Advent With Kids Christmas Gifts That Won't Break: A ...

Church and Society will host the Young Adult Clergy Forum 2020 Jan. 26-29, 2020, in Washington D.C. The Office of Connectional Ministries is offering two scholarships of $500 for two persons, up to the age of 35, to attend who have not participated previously. The forum is for those serving in full time in ministry in local churches or appointments beyond the local church (deacons, elders, or full-time local pastors). Send scholarship requests to earnestine@sgaumc.com. The requests will be ...

Click here to view and print the October 15 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the October 15 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 33 pages)

Click here to view and print the October 1 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the October 1 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 22 pages)

Youth groups from around the South Georgia Conference (and beyond!) will come together for a fall weekend retreat that offers passionate worship, relevant Bible study, and a meaningful time with other teens at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island. Sponsored by the Office of Connectional Ministries, Encounter Youth Retreat, set for Nov. 22-24, 2019, is for all middle and high school students.  Encounter offers a chance for students to take a break from school, have fun in the beautiful ...

Click here to view and print the September 17 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the September 17 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 23 pages)

Click here to view and print the September 3 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the September 3 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 23 pages)

Click here to view and print the August 20 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the August 20 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 22 pages)

KidzQuest, the annual children’s retreat sponsored by Connectional Ministries, is for students in 3rd-6th grades. This event typically sells out before the deadline and brings so much energy (and noise!) to Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island. 500 children and adult leaders come together with dozens of other church groups, learning how to worship, study God's Word, and understand what a relationship with Jesus really means. Amid beautiful coastal scenery, amazing adult leaders, and time away...

Nearly 400 years ago, the first African slaves arrived in what is now the United States. Today, many African Americans still struggle with the oppressive legacy. Three United Methodist agencies have assembled a collection of events and written material to help people study and commemorate the 400th anniversary of the first slaves brought to what is now the U.S. in 1619. Read story Denise Rooks, chair of the Conference’s Advocacy Team, has written the following to help us remember, reflect, and ...

Mark your calendars now for the 2019 Pathways event, August 24. Pathways is geared to equip, inspire and encourage pastors and laity in faith and in ministry! We have more than 30 workshops to choose from, ranging from leadership development, new ministry ideas, social justice, spiritual growth, and more. There's something for everyone! Visit sgaumc.org/pathways for more information, a downloadable brochure with workshop descriptions, a registration link, and a bulletin insert to share in your ...

Click here to view and print the July 23 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the July 23 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 22 pages)

Click here to view and print the July 9 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the July 9 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 22 pages)

The Annual Conference Program Committee is asking for feedback from those who attended the 2019 Annual Conference Session. Your input helps plan for future conferences.  Click here to share feedback on the 2019 Annual Conference Session.

At the 2017 Annual Conference session, the South Georgia Conference approved two resolutions, statements that represent the position of the conference on a subject. The first, a “Resolution in support of a Coordinated Action on Behalf of Undocumented Neighbors,” called on the presiding bishop to form a task force to develop a strategy to educate clergy and laity about the history of immigration and human and civil rights concerning undocumented members of society and to encourage South Georgia ...

Click here to view and print the June 25 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the June 25 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 28 pages)

Click here to view and print the June 11 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the June 11 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 36 pages)

Click here to view and print the May 21 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the May 21 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 31 pages)

Our Connection Matters offers a toolkit which includes a wealth of resources focusing on a different theme to resource your local church in nurture, outreach, witness and advocacy ministries. ________________________________________ Countdown to Summer What does the countdown to summer include? Planning for so many great things: the end of another school year, graduations, Vacation Bible Schools, moving pastors, family vacations, mission journeys, Pentecost and at the top of the list - SUMMER ...

There are just a few spots left for Elementary Camp 1!! Register TODAY! Don’t miss out on the opportunity for your child to spend a week away from normal everyday life in the beauty of God’s creation with people who seek to share Christ in the everyday. Register today for Camp Connect, the camping ministry of the South Georgia Conference.  With an “Upside Down” theme this summer, a week at Camp Connect will teach campers how to turn the world upside down for Jesus. Diving into scripture and ...

Every year, the South Georgia Conference honors clergy and laity who exhibit outstanding efforts for the work on Christian Evangelism with the Harry Denman Evangelism Award.  The Harry Denman Evangelism Award program recognizes United Methodists in each annual conference whose exceptional ministry of evangelism – expressed in Word (what), Sign (why), and Deed (how) – brings people into a life-transforming relationship with Jesus Christ. Evangelism happens in many contexts and many settings; ...

Click here to view and print the April 2 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the April 2 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 29 pages)

Click here to view and print the March 19 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the March 19 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 23 pages)

The South Georgia Conference welcomes Sherry Buresh to the staff in the Office of Connectional Ministries. Sherry joins the staff in the role of Disaster Recovery Coordinator: Hurricane Michael. She will be working specifically in the Southwest District coordinating long term recovery efforts for those impacted by Hurricane Michael. This position is a one year recovery project and is funded through the connection by an UMCOR grant. She brings more than 15 years of disaster response experience ...

Click here to view and print the March 5 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the March 5 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 26 pages)

By Kara Witherow, Editor A popular meme states, “It’s never a good sign when Jim Cantore comes to town.” Cantore, a meteorologist and on-air personality for The Weather Channel, is a famous figure in hurricane reporting and is well-known for being in the middle of the worst weather. But on April 27, South Georgia residents have nothing to fear from Cantore. Instead of reporting from the eye of a hurricane he’ll be the keynote speaker at the Conference Discipleship Teams’ “Witnessing Through ...

Click here to view and print the Feb. 19 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the February 19 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 20 pages)

Click here to view and print the Feb. 5 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the February 5 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 22 pages)

Guest speakers from Connectional Ministries are available to preach and share with local congregations the important work of connecting, resourcing, and training ministry the office provides. Partnering with local United Methodist congregations and individuals is vital to Connectional Ministries' ministry. Call today to let them share the good work that God is doing! Available speakers include Dr. Nita Crump, Rev. Earnestine Campbell, and Allison Lindsey. Contact Connectional Ministries at ...

Click here to view and print the Jan. 22 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the January 22 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 23 pages)

What would South Georgia look like if every local United Methodist church spent an entire day serving its community? Hungry people would be fed. Lonely people would find friends. Schools could be beautified. Rivers could be cleaned. Homes could be repaired. And so much more. The Conference’s Discipleship Teams are hoping that the Annual Conference’s inaugural #ServeSouthGA volunteer day inspires congregations throughout South Georgia to move outside the church building and into their ...

Click here to view and print the Jan. 8 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the January 8 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 18 pages)

Applications are still being accepted for the 2019 Camp Connect Summer Leadership Team at Epworth By The Sea. Applications are open to college students who have completed at least one year of college. The Leadership Team will commit to nine weeks of camping ministry which will include serving at high school, middle school, and elementary camps. These Camp Counselors will minister to hundreds of youth and children throughout the summer while making Christian friendships with other staff members ...

The Office of Connectional Ministries is in January launching an online video series that will explore the foundations of the Methodist faith and traditions. The six-part series, called “Come to the Table,” will feature South Georgia clergy and laity teaching about topics such as Methodist history, grace, works of mercy, works of piety, and more. “The roots of Methodism run deep. For more than 200 years we have been a movement with the purpose of encouraging a deep connection to God and to our...

Click here to view and print the December 18 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the December 18 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 24 pages)

The third annual Multicultural Luncheon will be held February 9, 2019, from noon until 2 p.m. at Cordele First United Methodist Church. The 2019 theme is “Alive Together in Christ, the World.” The luncheon will celebrate the gifts God has provided in the South Georgia Conference through its local churches as well as the service the gifts and talents provide for the churches and communities. Speakers from around the conference and the connection will present. There is a small cost of $6 for ...

During the weekend of March 1-3, 2019, more than 500 confirmands will gather at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island for the annual “Join the Journey” Confirmation Retreat of the South Georgia Conference. Tailored to fifth-grade students and above, confirmands will enjoy learning about their United Methodist heritage in a high-energy, exciting atmosphere. Participants will also be exposed to the diverse leadership that makes up the South Georgia Conference as Bishop Lawson Bryan, pastors, ...

Click here to view and print the December 4 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the December 4 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 23 pages)

When disaster strikes, the United Methodist connection comes alive. The South Georgia Conference has seen this over and over again in the past month as people have responded to our needs here in South Georgia following the devastation caused by Hurricane Michael. Our connection is at work thanks to your overwhelming generosity. Even as we continue down our own path of recovery in the southwest pocket of our conference, we also want to extend a helping hand to our brothers and sisters in the ...

The Office of Connectional Ministries will in January launch a leadership tour aimed at equipping and empowering local church leaders.  The 2019 Leadership Tour, which kicks off Sunday, Jan. 6 at Americus First UMC, will offer practical teaching and resources to inspire and help local church leaders lead with confidence. Similar to the Pathways training event, participants will choose two paths, or classes, to take to enrich their ministry. This free event is sponsored by the Office of ...

Click here to view and print the November 20 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the November 20 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 20 pages)

2018 Advent Resources Advent/Christmas We hope the resources will help jumpstart your planning and give you new ideas for this season. _________________________________________ N  U  R  T  U  R  E Take the Online Advent Quiz: (Download), print and share the Advent Quiz with your church, family & friends!  Chuck Knows Church: The Advent Wreath (Video 3 minutes) New Ways to Celebrate Advent With Kids Christmas Gifts That Won't Break: A Children's Advent Study by James W. Moore. Coloring Through ...

By Kara Witherow, Editor On Sunday, Nov. 11, Grace United Methodist Church in Brunswick will celebrate its sesquicentennial with the theme, “Rooted in the past with a vision for our future.” They will celebrate with an anniversary banquet Friday, Nov. 9 and with a church anniversary worship hour Sunday, Nov. 11, with retired Coastal District Superintendent Dr. Wayne Moseley preaching. The church, which began Nov. 18, 1868, also has much to celebrate as they conclude their two-year involvement...

Encounter is a weekend retreat designed for 6th - 12th grade students where everyone will ENCOUNTER God, and each in a very unique way. This retreat, set for Nov. 16-18, will offer passionate worship, relevant Bible study and a meaningful time with other teens at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island. Click here for more information. I Click here to register your group.

Click here to view and print the October 16 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the October 16 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 21 pages)

The Office of Connectional Ministries has two grant opportunities for local churches:   The Peace with Justice Grant provides seed money for any local church, district, conference, or agency that has a desire to work and support mercy and justice efforts and who seeks to offer peaceful solutions through Christian discipleship and living out the love and grace of God. Examples include developing disciples who strive to end poverty, being graceful to those at the margins, connecting with people ...

We are busy preparing for the 2019 Annual Conference Session, which will be held at The Columbus Georgia Convention & Trade Center set for June 2-5, 2019. Last year, Bishop Bryan led us in celebrating all the ways we are “Alive Together in Worship.” We also prepared for a year-long emphasis on being “Alive Together in the World” and will continue that celebration at the 2019 Annual Conference Session. I pray that you are finding many ways to reach out to the world in word and deed as you share ...

Click here to view and print the September 18 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the September 18 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 19 pages)

KidzQuest, an annual children’s retreat sponsored by South Georgia’s Connectional Ministries, will be held September 21-23 at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island. The theme, “This Wild Life,” will be the foundation of the weekend and will help show kids just how wild their faith journey can be! As Joshua 1:9 commands us to be strong, brave, and not afraid, kids will learn that “I [God] will be there to help you wherever you go.” What a promise!  Designed for students in third through sixth ...

Click here to view and print the September 5 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the September 5 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 19 pages)

KidzQuest, the annual children’s fall retreat sponsored by South Georgia’s Connectional Ministries, is for students in third through sixth grades. This event typically sells out and brings so much energy (and noise!) to the grounds of Epworth By The Sea retreat center on St. Simons Island. 500 children and adult leaders come together with dozens of other church groups, learning how to worship, study God's Word, and understand what a relationship with Jesus really means. Beautiful coastal ...

Click here to view and print the August 21 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the August 21 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 18 pages)

Click here to view and print the August 7 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the August 7 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 24 pages)

NASHVILLE, TENN.: A new video resource from United Methodist Communications uses an animated John and Charles Wesley to share United Methodist history in an innovative and contemporary way. Created for use in confirmation classes, new member classes, Sunday school and small discussion groups, "The Wesleys Take the Web" is a series of three 1-minute episodes (also available as one 3-minute video) that aims to generate conversation about the history of The United Methodist Church and make it ...

Each year the Advocacy team selects an area of focus from among the four members' deepest cares and concerns. This year, the Advocacy team is focusing on ending extreme poverty worldwide. By Tammy A.K. Mixon-Calderon, Executive Director, Wesley Community Centers of Savannah, Inc. Overwhelmed and at her wit’s end, Sharon arrived for an appointment with Wesley’s Family Advocate in dire need of help and a plan. Sharon is 26 years old and the single mother of six children. The needs were many – ...

Click here to view and print the July 10 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the July 24 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 23 pages)

Registration is still open for Pathways 2018, to be held at Trinity UMC in Warner Robins, Saturday, August 25. Download the brochure for a list of workshops and gather a group from your church to "divide and conquer" the many great offerings. After the event, come together to learn from each other. You will find something for everyone to equip, encourage, and empower both clergy and laity in ministry! For questions, contact Allison Lindsey at allison@sgaumc.com.  Download the brochure I Register...

Click here to view and print the July 10 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the July 10 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 18 pages)

Click here to view and print the June 26 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the June 26 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 25 pages)

Each year the Advocacy team selects an area of focus from among the four members' deepest cares and concerns. This year, the Advocacy team is focusing on ending extreme poverty worldwide.   By Kim Jenkins, Executive Director, Open Door Community House   Women and children disproportionately make up the largest population of persons living in poverty around the world and here at home. Many programs around the globe seek to alleviate the problem by offering, for example, training for women to sell...

Click here to view and print the June 11 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the June 11 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 32 pages)

During the 2018 Annual Conference session, delegates heard Vital Signs moments from the Office of Congregational Development and Connectional Ministries. These Vital Signs moments highlighted areas in the South Georgia Conference that are alive and vital and ways the conference is “Alive Together in Worship.” During the Monday, June 4 afternoon business session, Rev. Jay Hanson, director of Congregational Development, highlighted a couple of the Conference’s churches that are seeing increases ...

Churches throughout the conference continue to demonstrate the ways they are Alive Together in Christ through mission, ministry and evangelism.  Evangelistically Fruitful Congregations The mission of the church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ. A significant dimension of the disciple-making process is that of leading people to make a commitment to God through baptism and profession of faith in Jesus Christ.   Reaching new persons with the gospel is at the very heart of every church’s ...

Click here to view and print the May 29 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the May 29 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 22 pages)

Agencies within the bounds of our Annual Conference are changing lives. They are the hands and feet of Jesus Christ as they help to meet the most basic of needs. We are grateful for their work and want to show our gratitude. Each of the agencies listed below will have a collection box in the lobby. They have selected an item that will help them in their day-to-day operation. So choose one or choose several and let’s help fill up their boxes!  Magnolia Manor: Jigsaw/word search puzzles, hardback ...

Those who are not able to attend the 2018 South Georgia Annual Conference session may watch the conference in its entirety via live stream at www.sgaumc.org/aclivestreaming. The live stream link will be available through the Annual Conference session’s duration, beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 3 through the Fixing the Appointments/Sending Forth Service on Tuesday, June 5. Those with internet access can experience events, worship services, and plenary sessions as if they were attending in ...

Click here to view and print the May 15 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the May 15 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 27 pages)

The South Georgia Conference Ethnic Local Church Concerns (ELLC) fund provides small seed money for United Methodist local church ministries that have a desire to enhance discipleship-making efforts. We are now offering this ELLC fund opportunity.  To request an application, contact Earnestine Campbell at earnestine@sgaumc.com or visit www.sgaumc.org/advocacy for more information.

Business items for the 2018 Annual Conference session are contained in the Book of Recommendations and Reports (BOR). One of the purposes of the BOR is to encourage delegates to read the recommendations, reports, and resolutions prior to arriving at conference. A good delegate is a prepared delegate. The 2015 Annual Conference session voted that all Annual Conference materials, including the Book of Recommendations and Reports, be made available online on the conference website and through ...

United Methodists are committed to health, wholeness, and offering hope. Local congregations offer feeding ministries to help children receive nourishing food when they aren’t at school, mission teams travel overseas to help dig and install water wells in faraway countries, and United Methodists from around the conference faithfully give to assist clergy when they are faced with special needs. During this year’s Annual Conference session, South Georgia United Methodists have the opportunity to...

The South Georgia Conference Peace with Justice grant fund provides seed money for United Methodist local church, district, conference, and agency ministries that have a desire to work and support mercy and justice efforts. We are now offering Peace with Justice grant opportunities for these groups interested in seeking peaceful solutions through Christian discipleship and living out the love and grace of God.​ To request an application, contact Earnestine Campbell at earnestine@sgaumc.com or ...

Click here to view and print the April 17 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the April 17 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 23 pages)

Click here to view and print the April 3 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the April 3 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 20 pages)

Click here to view and print the March 20 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the March 20 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 22 pages)

Submitted by Rev. Earnestine Campbell   Strengthening the Black Church for the 21st Century (SBC21), a leadership and church development partnership between the National SBC21 and the South Georgia Conference, celebrated its second annual Leadership and Development Conference Saturday, March 10 at Grace Corner United Methodist Church in Macon.   The conference focused on several leadership laboratories facilitated by SBC21 national coaches.   The Christian Education laboratory was facilitated by...

Don't miss out on the opportunity for your child to spend a week away from normal everyday life in the beauty of God’s creation with people who seek to share Christ in the everyday. Register today for Camp Connect Elementary Camp, the camping ministry of the South Georgia Conference.  With a “Blueprints” theme this summer, a week at Camp Connect will teach campers what God’s design for their life looks like. Diving into scripture and sharing life stories will show them they are created in God’s ...

Each year the Advocacy team selects an area of focus from among the four members' deepest cares and concerns. This year, the Advocacy team is focusing on ending extreme poverty worldwide. Over the next year we will share how we can engage with this issue from various perspectives.  By Rev. Stacey Harwell-Dye Just the words toxic charity may be enough to make you question the very premise of this article. After all, how can charity, which comes from a good place in our hearts, ever be toxic? ...

Click here to view and print the March 6 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the March 6 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 30 pages)

We cannot all be present when disaster strikes. However, on March 11, we will equip others to go. UMCOR Sunday allows The United Methodist Church to respond when disaster strikes. Think of UMCOR as our “Go Team” who can be present when help is needed. South Georgia churches will join thousands of others across the United States by participating in a United Methodist churchwide special Sunday with offering. Together, we will help fund the critical disaster-relief efforts of the United Methodist ...

Click here to view and print the February 20 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the February 20 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 23 pages)

Each year the Advocacy team selects an area of focus from among the four members' deepest cares and concerns. This year, the Advocacy team is focusing on ending extreme poverty worldwide. Our Advocacy point of contact for this issue is Rev. Ashley Randall who has done extensive work on the issue with the ONE Campaign. Over the next year we will share about how we can engage with this issue from various perspectives. If you have any questions or would like to join us in this work, please contact ...

Click here to view and print the February 6 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the February 6 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 25 pages)

The Second Annual Multicultural Luncheon will be held February 3, 2018, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Centenary UMC, Macon. The 2018 theme is Worship, celebrating and engaging in diversity through worship and music development. The workshop presenter will be Rev. Dr. Cynthia Wilson, Assistant General Secretary, Leadership Ministries. There is a small cost of $6 for lunch. Register here. The Workshop flyer is attached here; please share it with congregations. For more information, contact Earnestine ...

Click here to view and print the January 23 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the January 23 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 32 pages)

NEW! The Campus Crawl begins in a few short weeks. Space is limited to the first 50 students who register. Refer a friend and get a $10 Amazon gift card for each friend you bring along. Register before February 9 and get a Campus Crawl t-shirt. Reserve your seat on the bus today!   Campus Crawl is a bus tour designed to introduce 9th through 12th grade students to United Methodist campus ministries featuring our Georgia United Methodist Colleges and Universities.   In one weekend, high school ...

The Office of Connectional Ministries is hosting three one-day Connecting Neighbors training events, designed to equip and empower individuals and local churches to be a presence in their community (and beyond) in the event of a natural or man-made catastrophic event. "Connecting Neighbors” is UMCOR’s recently-updated program that gives congregations the tools and information they need to guide the development of their disaster-response ministries. Congregations that invest their time in “...

Click here to view and print the January 9 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the January 9 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 27 pages)

The Carl and Ruth Looney Scholarship was established by Bishop Richard C. Looney,  who was elected the first bishop of the South Georgia Annual Conference in 1988 and where he served for 12 years.  After retirement, he served as President of The Foundation for Evangelism and as the Episcopal Director of the Foundation. He continues to serve as Episcopal Director Emeritus for the Foundation since his retirement.  The scholarship funds, up to $1000 per application, are available to South Georgia ...

Click here to view and print the December 18 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the December 18 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 24 pages)

The 16th Annual South Georgia Conference Join the Journey Confirmation Retreat will be held March 2-4, 2018. Designed for students in the fifth grade and above, the “Join the Journey” Confirmation Retreat will provide churches of all sizes an opportunity to connect with others through worship, study, and fellowship. The event will also include large group gatherings around the church seasons and breakout sessions with topics of grace, United Methodist History and United Methodist lingo as well ...

Click here to view and print the November 20 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the November 20 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 32 pages)

Human Relations Day – January 14 * Andrew College Sunday – February 11 ** Volunteers in Mission Awareness Sunday – February 18 ** Kingdom Builders Promotion – February 25 ** UMCOR Sunday – March 11 * Native American Awareness – April 15 * Magnolia Manor Sunday – May 13 ** Peace With Justice – May 27 * Wesley Glen Day – June 17 ** Golden Cross Sunday – July 1 ** Christian Education Sunday – August 19 ** Methodist Children's Home Word Day – September 16 ** World Communion Day – October 7 * Vashti ...

Program funding opportunities The South Georgia Conference Peace with Justice grant fund provides seed money for the United Methodist local church, district, conference, and agency ministries that have a desire to work and support mercy and justice efforts. Peace with Justice grant opportunities are now being offered for groups that are interested in seeking peaceful solutions through Christian discipleship and living out the love and grace of God. What is its purpose? Assists United ...

Click here to view and print the November 6 issue of the South Georgia Advocate. This is a link to a printable PDF file that contains all of the news and stories from the November 6 South Georgia Advocate. This file may be printed and given to those in your congregation who might not have access to a computer, printer or the Internet. (Length: 25 pages)

By Rev. Earnestine W. Campbell The Southeastern Jurisdiction Black Methodists for Church Renewal (SEJ BMCR) 49th Annual Meeting was held Oct. 19 through Oct. 21, 2017, in Atlanta. This year’s event theme, “Communion: Holy or Unholy? The Messy Truth!” was undergirded by 1 Corinthians 11:18 which states, “For, to begin with, when you come together as a church, I hear that there are divisions among you; and to some extent, I believe it.” The theme appears, at first sight, to be only an ...

Click on the link below to download the Sunday Advocate. Sunday, November 12 The Sunday Advocate is a weekly printable bulletin insert and supplement to the South Georgia Advocate online newspaper. Loaded with South Georgia Conference and UMC news, event information, tips and more, the Sunday Advocate is a printable PDF that can be printed and distributed through local church communication pieces. It will be published and available for download each Monday afternoon. The Sunday Advocate...

Encounter, the annual youth retreat sponsored by South Georgia’s Office of Connectional Ministries, is set for Nov. 17-19 at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island. Designed for 6th - 12th grade students, Encounter will offer passionate worship, relevant Bible study, and a meaningful time away from home with other teens. The theme “One.,” taken from John 14:6 where Jesus says, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me,” will ask students “What if we...

Click on the link below to download the Sunday Advocate. Sunday, October 29 The Sunday Advocate is a weekly printable bulletin insert and supplement to the South Georgia Advocate online newspaper. Loaded with South Georgia Conference and UMC news, event information, tips and more, the Sunday Advocate is a printable PDF that can be printed and distributed through local church communication pieces. It will be published and available for download each Monday afternoon. The Sunday Advocate is ...