Happenings

Upcoming Events for Clergy Workshop: The Cost of Care in Your Calling - Oct. 12 Bottom line - ministry can be hard. As you carry other’s burdens it’s inevitable that it will take a toll on you. Check out this one-day workshop that focuses on the on-going demands of ministry, how to provide protection for yourself, and recognizing the symptoms of carrying others burdens for a prolonged time. We want you to learn the best ways to give yourself grace as you care for others. Join us Oct. 12 from ...

Basic ERT Training  A basic Early Response Team training is set for Saturday August 26, 2023, at 8 am at St. Simons UMC (624 Ocean Blvd, St. SImons Island GA 31522). Lunch is included. This training is a collaborative effort of the United Methodist Committee on Relief and United Methodist Volunteers in Mission. For more information, contact Kelly Crane at kelcrane@gmail.com or 731-499-0491. Register now 2023 Lay Servant Ministries & Certified Lay Ministry Check out the dates & registration for ...

The Eagles, the retired ministers and spouses of South Georgia, have set their annual retreat for October 16-18, 2023, at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons. ​This year’s program and presentations will focus on World War II. Participants will hear interesting and informative presentations about the beginning and the end of the war in the Pacific from a guest speaker traveling from Orlando, FL. Registration and room check-in begins on Monday, October 16 at 4:00 pm. Dinner will be served between ...

Living out Proverbs 11:25, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed,” Canaan Community United Methodist Men hosted a community-wide appreciation event with a free Fish Fry on their church grounds in Savannah, Ga. It was a day full of fun, food, and fellowship. Those gathered feasted on fresh, hot fried fish, well-seasoned to the taste. Held Father’s Day weekend on Saturday, June 17, 2023, from 11am – 3pm in the church parking lot, over one-hundred people were ...

2023 Lay Servant Ministries & Certified Lay Ministry Check out the dates & registration for the 2023 classes. One-day clergy retreat to focus on mental health Secondary trauma, the kind that comes from living life in the midst of other people's trauma, is emotionally devastating if not cared for and processed through. South Georgia clergy are invited to participate in a one-day event led by Cameron Bishop that will focus on learning how to recognize the trauma you have experienced personally or...

2023 Lay Servant Ministries & Certified Lay Ministry Check out the dates & registration for the 2023 classes.   SUMMER CAMP!! Camp Connect, the camping ministry of the South Georgia Conference, gives children and youth from rising 4th grade through rising seniors in high school the opportunity to spend a week away from normal everyday life in the beauty of God’s creation. Diving into scripture and sharing life stories will show campers they are created in God’s image and for a purpose. Five ...

2023 Lay Servant Ministries & Certified Lay Ministry Check out the dates & registration for the 2023 classes.   Clergy Mental Health Retreat - May 18 In a season of high anxiety, we realize that those called to meet the needs of others are in need themselves. To help address the needs of our clergy, the South Georgia Conference Clergy Mental Health Task Force is putting together a series of retreats to support clergy in their mental health. The first retreat, Anxiety: Enemy or Ally, is set for ...

Serving in full-time ministry is consuming. It's hard to relax and "turn off" at the end of the day. Being a pastor is an always-on, always-in-demand role with sometimes unrealistically high expectations.  The South Georgia Conference realizes the need to care for those in ministry, and has implemented S3, a program for sustaining excellence in ministry through small-group experiences focused on Sabbath, study, and service. Brought to South Georgia nearly 20 years ago, the S3 program was ...

2023 Lay Servant Ministries & Certified Lay Ministry Check out the dates & registration for the 2023 classes.   Clergy Ethics Training – April 20 Every three years, according to the South Georgia Conference Sexual Ethics policy, persons serving under appointment by the bishop (clergy, local pastors, extension ministers, appointed lay speakers) are required to attend a Sexual Ethics Workshop. Under the guidance of the Office of Ministerial Services, the South Georgia Conference will offer Clergy ...

The Moore Methodist Museum staff and volunteers will welcome David Worthington, Director of Global Relations New Room in Bristol, England, to St. Simons on his long-planned U.S. east coast lecture tour. The free lecture, entitled “Methodism Comes to America: The Bristol Connection,” will be presented Thursday, April 20 at 1pm in Lovely Lane Chapel at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island, Ga. A Meet & Greet opportunity immediately following the one-hour lecture will be held across the street ...

2023 Lay Servant Ministries & Certified Lay Ministry Check out the dates & registration for the 2023 classes.   Clergy Ethics Training – April 11, April 20 Every three years, according to the South Georgia Conference Sexual Ethics policy, persons serving under appointment by the bishop (clergy, local pastors, extension ministers, appointed lay speakers) are required to attend a Sexual Ethics Workshop. Under the guidance of the Office of Ministerial Services, the South Georgia Conference will ...

2023 Lay Servant Ministries & Certified Lay Ministry Check out the dates & registration for the 2023 classes.   Confirmation Retreat – March 3-5 The 2023 South Georgia Conference Confirmation retreat will take place March 3-5 at Epworth By The Sea. 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. Bishop Graves will be joining us to kick ...

Georgia Pastors School is set for July 17-20, 2023, at Epworth by the Sea on St. Simons Island. This spiritual formation event for pastors will feature Rev. Juanita Rasmus, co-pastor of St. John’s United Methodist Church in Houston, TX, and Johnny Sears from The Upper Room as this year’s teachers.    Rasmus is a preacher, transformational coach, author, and speaker with a passion for coaching people to live their most expansive lives. She travels speaking on spirituality and the transformational...

Dear Lay and Clergy Members of the 2023 Annual Conference, Greetings to you as we continue in ministry in this new year! Our 2023 South Georgia Annual Conference Sessions, set for May 21 (special called session via Zoom meeting) and June 4-6 (regular session meeting in-person), are quickly approaching. We know that you are actively making your plans to attend, which is why we want to share important information with you now. Most of the information in this email will pertain to the June 4-6 ...

Every three years, according to the South Georgia Conference Sexual Ethics policy, persons serving under appointment by the bishop (clergy, local pastors, extension ministers, appointed lay speakers) are required to attend a Sexual Ethics Workshop. Under the guidance of the Office of Ministerial Services, the South Georgia Conference will offer Clergy Ethics trainings in March and April 2023.    Trainings were postponed in 2022 while conference leadership worked on a new training model. The new ...

Registration is now open for the Called Conference, sponsored by the South Georgia Conference's Youth Ministry Network. Set for February 2-3, 2023 at Epworth By The Sea, this retreat is a time for youth workers to remember their calling and reignite their passion for ministry. Youth ministry has changed significantly and youth workers need the tools, the relationships and reliance on God (and God alone) to continue. This one-day retreat will give youth workers time together to worship, to reset,...

On Sunday, January 8, 2023, the South Georgia Conference will host a celebration service and reception for South Georgia’s returning episcopal leader, Bishop David Graves. It will be held at 4 p.m. at Mulberry Street United Methodist Church in Macon. The special service is a time for our Annual Conference to gather for worship and to welcome back Bishop Graves and Mrs. Nancy Graves and to give thanks for his assignment to the South Georgia Conference. Bishop Graves will preach, the Mulberry ...

Registration for the 22nd annual South Georgia Conference Confirmation Retreat opened December 1st for South Georgia churches and January 1st for all other churches. The 2023 retreat will take place March 3-5 at Epworth By The Sea. 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. Bishop Graves will be joining us to kick off the event! For...

Encounter Youth Retreat: Returning back to Epworth after a couple of years away, we had our largest Encounter Youth Retreat in 9 years! We dug deep into Psalm 46 and worshiped together with 21 different churches attending.  Confirmation Retreat: Registration for the 22nd annual South Georgia Conference Confirmation Retreat opened December 1st for South Georgia churches and January 1st for all other churches. The 2023 retreat will take place March 3-5 at Epworth By The Sea. Designed for ...

By Carol D. Hunt   “Prayer for Such a Time as This” was the well thought of theme for the first prayer breakfast held at ConneXion United Methodist Church.   Psalm 133 reminds us, “How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” That is exactly what happened on a pleasant, crisp Saturday morning on October 15, 2022. This prayer breakfast, hosted by the United Women in Faith at ConneXion United Methodist Church in the beautiful city of Savannah, Georgia, was just what ...

The Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference will be held November 2-4, 2022, at Lake Junaluska Conference Center in North Carolina.  The primary business of the session will be the election and assignment of bishops. There are nine nominees for bishop. Originally set for July 15-17, 2020, the SEJ Conference was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Council of Bishops has called for Jurisdictional Conferences across the U.S. to meet November 2-4, 2022.  The South Georgia Conference ...

The Office of Connectional Ministries is hosting The Collab Conference October 13-14, 2022, at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island. The Collab Conference is led by seasoned youth ministry leaders and tailored for ALL those in youth ministry positions - volunteer, part-time, and full-time. Through learning sessions, discussion groups, worship, meals, networking opportunities, fun activities and practical take-home resources, student ministry leaders will walk away encouraged and equipped for ...

The Office of Connectional Ministries is excited to offer South Georgia clergy the opportunity to participate in a workshop led by Dr. Henry Cloud on Tuesday, October 18 from 12-3 pm. "Don't Quit, We Need You" is specifically designed with clergy in mind. If you’re struggling with the stress, pressure, and loneliness that comes from church leadership, you are not alone. This workshop will help you learn how to move from stress to peace, loneliness to connection, division to unity, and grief to ...

Bishop David Graves has traveled across South Georgia during the month of September meeting with clergy and laity in various settings. On September 11 he met with the laity of the North Central & Northwest Districts, and on September 18 he met with the laity of the South Central & Southwest Districts. He will meet with the Coastal & Northeast Districts on September 25 at Richmond Hill UMC from 4pm – 6pm. The purpose of these gatherings is to provide necessary and accurate information around ...

Registration is open for Encounter, the Conference's annual youth retreat for students in sixth through twelfth grades. Encounter Youth Retreat will take place November 18-20, 2022, at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island. More information & registration  

September Gatherings with Bishop Graves During three weeks in September, Bishop David Graves will travel across the South Georgia Conference to meet with clergy and laity in various settings. The purpose of these gatherings is to provide necessary and accurate information around current denominational matters. While the three Sunday regional gatherings are geared toward laity, all are welcome to attend. Clergy will have an opportunity to meet with the bishop while he is in each district for ...

The United Methodist Student Day Special Sunday Offering helps provide funds for scholarships and loans for United Methodist students. Student Day gifts make a real difference for those who hope to attend college. Ninety percent (90%) of the offering goes toward funding the many scholarships and loans administered by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (www.gbhem.org) and ten percent (10%) stays within our state and goes to Georgia UM-related schools for merit scholarships.  ...

Called Annual Conference Session – Aug. 20  Bishop David Graves has called a special session of the SGA Annual Conference.  www.sgaumc.org/called-annual-conference-session    Golden Cross Sunday – Aug. 21  Golden Cross began in 1908 with the commitment of Methodists in Dallas, Texas to provide the first health care to persons who could not afford it. They began to receive offerings for the expenses of the poor patients at Methodist Hospital in that city. By 1930, the concept was officially ...

During three weeks in September, Bishop David Graves will travel across the South Georgia Conference to meet with clergy and laity in various settings. The purpose of these gatherings is to provide necessary and accurate information around current denominational matters. While the three Sunday regional gatherings are geared toward laity, all are welcome to attend. Clergy will have an opportunity to meet with the bishop while he is in each district for clergy specific meetings. “I look forward ...

Online Basic Lay Servant Training – Aug. 9, 11, 16, 18 Lay Servant training is designed to educate those persons interested in stretching their faith to participate more fully in the ministries of the church. They have three main areas of focus: Leading, Caring, and Communicating. The basic class is based on Cokesbury’s book, “Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course,” which teaches a basic understanding of ministry in the United Methodist Tradition. Included in the course is the following: Wesleyan ...

SEJ Historical Society Meeting – July 26-29 The SEJ Historical Society and the Historical Society of the UMC are joining together for a gathering focused on “Walking With Wesley” July 26-29, 2022. Highlights include: The Wesleys at Frederica, The Decision for Georgia, The Wesleys’ Travels in South Carolina; Saddlebag Book Award; optional tour of Savannah and Cockspur Landing; and tour of St. Simon’s Island and Frederica. For more information, contact Anne Packard at 912-638-4050. Online Basic ...

Mission u – July 15-17 Mission u provides opportunities to prepare for leadership in mission study and personal growth. It’s a weekend full of worship, service, training, and study. Mission u will motivate, inform, challenge and enrich your commitment to global ministry. Mission u is set for July 15-17 at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island. The retreat theme is “Luke 13: A Transformative Biblical Curriculum for Adults, Children & Youth.” More information | Download the flyer | Register now ...

Wesley Glen Day – June 19 Fathers’ Day is Wesley Glen Day across the South Georgia Conference. Show your support for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities by making a gift to Wesley Glen Ministries on June 19 in honor of a strong male role model in your life. Celebrate by wearing your favorite Wesley Glen T-shirt from past years. Post your pictures on social media with the tags: #WesleyGlenMinistries #growingtogether Certified Lay Ministry, Summer Immersion, Brunswick – June ...

2022 Annual Conference session – June 5-8 The 2022 Annual Conference session is set for June 5-8 in Columbus, Ga. Peace with Justice Sunday – June 12 Peace with Justice Sunday enables The United Methodist Church to have a voice in advocating for peace and justice through a broad spectrum of global programs. Peace with Justice Sunday Pastor and Leader Kit Wesley Glen Day – June 19 Fathers’ Day is Wesley Glen Day across the South Georgia Conference. Show your support for adults with intellectual...

Online Advanced Lay Servant Training – May 17, May 19, May 24, May 26 Lay Servant training is designed to educate those persons interested in stretching their faith to participate more fully in the ministries of the church.  They have three main areas of focus: Leading, Caring, and Communicating. The advanced class, based on Cokesbury’s book, “Each One a Minister,” by William Carter is a study of the book of Ephesians and what it teaches us about how we are called to use our spiritual gifts. ...

Magnolia Manor Sunday – May 8 Magnolia Manor is a South Georgia Conference ministry that serves older adults of all faiths in eight locations throughout South Georgia. On this Special Sunday, South Georgia United Methodists are asked to take up a special offering to support this vital ministry. To learn more about Magnolia Manor visit www.magnoliamanor.com. Living Life to the Fullest: An Older Adult Retreat at Epworth By The Sea – May 16-19 This three-day retreat, held May 16-19 at Epworth By ...

United Methodist Men Spiritual Life Retreat – April 22-23 The South Georgia Conference's United Methodist Men will gather for their annual retreat April 22-23 at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island. Bishop James Swanson, episcopal leader of the Mississippi Conference and president of the General Commission of United Methodist Men, will be the featured speaker. The Goshen Travelers Praise Band will provide musical leadership. Download brochure Basic ERT Training, Gray – April 30 A Basic ERT ...

Online Basic Lay Servant Training – April 12, April 14, April 19, April 21 Lay Servant training is designed to educate those persons interested in stretching their faith to participate more fully in the ministries of the church.  They have three main areas of focus: Leading, Caring, and Communicating. Basic LSM Training includes a basic foundation of the faith and an introduction to leadership. This training will be offered via Zoom. Registration fee for the class is $25. For more information ...

2022 Clergy Spouses Retreat – March 18-20 The 2022 Clergy Spouses Retreat will meet March 18-20 at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island. The retreat theme is “God’s Peace, God’s Calm” and the featured speaker is Joyce Ashley. Download the brochure / More information Basic ERT Training and Chainsaw Safety Course, Midland – March 19 A Basic ERT Training and Chainsaw Safety Course will be held Saturday March 19 at Pierce Chapel UMC in Midland. The basic class starts 8 a.m. with the chainsaw ...

Join the Journey Confirmation Retreat – March 4-6 The South Georgia Conference’s 21st annual retreat will be held at Epworth By The Sea March 4-6, 2022. Click here for more information or contact Suzanne Akins, Director of Camping and Retreats, at (912) 638-8626, ext.107 or suzanne@sgaumc.com. 2022 Clergy Spouses Retreat – March 18-20 The 2022 Clergy Spouses Retreat will meet March 18-20 at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island. The retreat theme is “God’s Peace, God’s Calm” and the featured ...

Clergy Time Apart with Bishop Graves & Rev. April Casperson – Feb. 15 Bishop Graves invites all South Georgia clergy to a special virtual Clergy Time Apart that will help pastors learn how to more fully care for themselves in order to more effectively serve. Set for Tuesday, February 15 from 10 a.m. until noon EST via Zoom, the virtual conference will focus on “Empathy as Pastoral Leadership: Continuing to Care while Maintaining Spiritual Wellness.” More information / Register Advanced Lay ...

Vashti Day – Feb. 6 Located in Thomasville, Ga., The Vashti Center, a mission of the United Methodist Women, works with children and youth with a variety of challenges. On Sunday, February 6, every local church in South Georgia is encouraged to receive a special offering to support the ministry of Vashti. To learn more about Vashti and its great ministry, visit www.vashti.org. Andrew College Sunday – Feb. 13 Founded in January 1854, Andrew College has continuously provided an academically ...

Youth Worker Winter Retreat – Jan. 20-21 Registration is now open for the South Georgia Conference's Youth Worker Winter Retreat, Jan. 20-21, 2022, at Little Ocmulgee State Park. This retreat is a time for youth workers to remember their calling, their why. The last 18 months have been the hardest times to navigate in ministry; youth ministry has changed and youth workers need the tools, the relationships and reliance on God (and God alone) to continue. This one-day retreat will give youth ...

Bishop Graves invites all Alabama-West Florida and South Georgia clergy to a special virtual Clergy Time Apart that will help pastors learn how to more fully care for themselves in order to more effectively serve. Set for Tuesday, February 15 from 10 a.m. until noon EST via Zoom, the virtual conference will focus on “Empathy as Pastoral Leadership: Continuing to Care while Maintaining Spiritual Wellness.”  Joining Bishop Graves will be Rev. April Casperson, Director of Diversity and Inclusion ...

Winter 2022 Certified Lay Ministry Training, Brunswick – Jan. 15, Jan. 29, Feb. 12, Feb. 26, March 12, March 26 In this six-session course, held at The Chapel in Brunswick, participants will develop a team of leaders and supporters within their current congregation who will encourage them throughout the course and beyond. Through the classes, they’ll build relationships with other South Georgia lay leaders and learn, practice, implement, share, and be inspired to take what they’ve learned and ...

Winter 2022 Certified Lay Ministry Training, Brunswick – Jan. 15, Jan. 29, Feb. 12, Feb. 26, March 12, March 26, 2022 In this six-session course, held at The Chapel in Brunswick, participants will develop a team of leaders and supporters within their current congregation who will encourage them throughout the course and beyond. Through the classes, they’ll build relationships with other South Georgia lay leaders and learn, practice, implement, share, and be inspired to take what they’ve learned ...

Online Basic ERT Recertification – Dec. 11 If your early response team (ERT) credentials have expired and you have not been able to renew because of COVID, UMCOR has waived all credentials from November 2019 through December 2021. In order to move forward in the credentialing process, UMCOR has now deployed an online recertification course to help you update your ERT credentials. Luis Morales, disaster response coordinator, will be hosting a four-hour online class on Saturday, Dec. 11. It will ...

Advanced Lay Servant Ministries Training, Richmond Hill – Nov. 19-20 Lay Servant training is designed to educate those persons interested in stretching their faith to participate more fully in the ministries of the church. They have three main areas of focus: Leading, Caring, and Communicating. The advanced class, based on Cokesbury’s book, “Each One a Minister,” by William Carter, is a study of the book of Ephesians and what it teaches us about how we are called to use our spiritual gifts. ...

Basic Lay Servant Ministries Training, Richmond Hill – Nov. 5-6 Lay Servant training is designed to educate those persons interested in stretching their faith to participate more fully in the ministries of the church. They have three main areas of focus: Leading, Caring, and Communicating. The basic class is based on Cokesbury’s book, “Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course,” which teaches a basic understanding of ministry in the United Methodist Tradition. Included in the course is the following: ...

Advent Resources Webinar – Oct. 20 During this one-hour live Zoom webinar session, Anne Bosarge will offer advice and ideas about plans your congregation can begin making to make Advent and Christmas more meaningful. Anne will discuss lots of ideas for Bible studies, adult and children’s activities, and more. Register Advanced Lay Servant Ministries Training, Vidalia – Oct. 22-23 Lay Servant training is designed to educate those persons interested in stretching their faith to participate more ...

BOTH/AND: To Be Continued Webinar – Oct. 12 Join Connectional Ministries and Jason Moore for a follow up to the popular BOTH/AND webinar. BOTH/AND: To Be Continued will focus on why hybrid should carry on, how to continue to iterate and will provide tangible handles on how to do it well. This brand new 90-minute training brings all new content focused on the why, how and what we can do to run the next leg of this very important race. We are living in an incredible “Great Commission” moment in ...

"Tuesdays at the Table: Should I stay? Or should I go?" is a new discussion series for United Methodists, presented by the Connectional Table (CT) in cooperation with general agencies and contributors. Weekly segments will explore topics aimed at helping viewers better understand their faith, their church and themselves. The sessions will premiere every Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. CT from October 5 – December 21 on Facebook, and will also be available for later viewing at UMC.org/ComeToTheTable and ...

Basic Lay Servant Ministries Training, Vidalia – Oct. 1-2 Lay Servant training is designed to educate those persons interested in stretching their faith to participate more fully in the ministries of the church. They have three main areas of focus: Leading, Caring, and Communicating. The basic class is based on Cokesbury’s book, “Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course,” which teaches a basic understanding of ministry in the United Methodist Tradition. Included in the course is the following: ...

Fall 2021 Certified Lay Ministry Training, Leesburg – Sept. 11, Sept. 25, Oct. 2, Oct. 23, Nov. 6, Nov. 20 In this six-session course, held at The Pointe in Leesburg, participants will develop a team of leaders and supporters within their current congregation who will encourage them throughout the course and beyond. Through the classes, they’ll build relationships with other South Georgia lay leaders and learn, practice, implement, share, and be inspired to take what they’ve learned and put it ...

Online Basic Lay Servant Ministries Training – Aug. 17, 19, 24, 26 Lay Servant training is designed to educate those persons interested in stretching their faith to participate more fully in the ministries of the church. They have three main areas of focus: Leading, Caring, and Communicating. The basic class is based on Cokesbury’s book, “Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course,” which teaches a basic understanding of ministry in the United Methodist Tradition. Included in the course is the ...

On Sunday, Aug. 15, the South Georgia Conference will host a farewell reception for Bishop R. Lawson Bryan and Mrs. Sherrill Bryan. The drop-in reception will be held from 3 – 5 p.m. at Vineville United Methodist Church in Macon. The reception is a time for the Annual Conference to gather together to thank Bishop and Mrs. Bryan for their five years of service to the South Georgia Annual Conference, said Rev. Jimmy Cason, who for five years served as the chairman of the Conference Committee on ...

Farewell reception for Bishop and Mrs. Bryan – Aug. 15 On Sunday, Aug. 15, the South Georgia Conference will host a farewell reception for Bishop R. Lawson Bryan and Mrs. Sherrill Bryan. The drop-in reception will be held from 3 – 5 p.m. at Vineville United Methodist Church in Macon. All are invited and encouraged to attend. Golden Cross Sunday – Aug. 15 Golden Cross began in 1908 with the commitment of Methodists in Dallas, Texas to provide the first health care to persons who could not afford...

Golden Cross Sunday – Aug. 15 Golden Cross began in 1908 with the commitment of Methodists in Dallas, Texas to provide the first health care to persons who could not afford it. They began to receive offerings for the expenses of the poor patients at Methodist Hospital in that city. By 1930, the concept was officially adopted throughout the predecessor denominations of The United Methodist Church. Today, Golden Cross is a ministry that reaches out in love to the laity in our Annual Conference who...

Camp Connect: Elementary Camp 1 – July 5-9 Elementary Camps, intended for rising 4th-5th grade students, are filled with a week’s worth of fun activities and opportunities to grow closer to Christ though daily worship, Bible study, and fellowship.  Campers will enjoy the beach, bonfire, art, games galore, hilarious morning shows, and evenings of camp-wide games and worship. Camp is sold out. Camp Connect: Elementary Camp 2 – July 12-16 Elementary Camps, intended for rising 4th-5th grade ...

Camp Connect: Middle School Camp 1 – June 21-25 Middle School Middle School Camps, intended for rising 6th-8th grade students, are filled with a week’s worth of fun activities and opportunities to grow closer to Christ though daily worship, Bible study, and fellowship.  Campers will enjoy the beach, bonfires, crafts, water activities, games galore, hilarious morning shows, and evenings of campwide games and worship. Camp is sold out. Certified Lay Ministry Summer Immersion – June 21-25 The ...

Camp Connect: High School Camp – June 14-18 High School Camp is sold out. Students entering grades 9-12 are eligible for High School Camp. Tailored toward the unique time in a high school student's life, this week of camp is filled with fun activities and opportunities to grow closer to Christ though daily worship, Bible study, and fellowship. Campers will enjoy the beach, bonfires, art, hilarious morning shows, and evenings of camp-wide games and worship. Contact the Office of Camp Ministries ...

ERT & Chainsaw Training, Byron – May 22 Early Response Team (ERT) Trainings equip individuals and teams to respond in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. The cost for the training is $25 per participant. At the training, participants will receive an ERT Training Manual and upon completing the course will receive an UMCOR ID Badge and a conference ERT T-shirt, and lunch is included. You must be 18 years or older to get the UMCOR badge. An UMCOR background check is required before receiving ...

Online Advanced Lay Servant Ministries Training via Zoom – May 4, May 6, May 11, May 13 Lay Servant training is designed to educate those persons interested in stretching their faith to participate more fully in the ministries of the church. They have three main areas of focus: Leading, Caring, and Communicating. The advanced class, based on Cokesbury’s book, “Each One a Minister,” by William Carter, is a study of the book of Ephesians and what it teaches us about how we are called to use our ...

Alive Together at the Table with Bishop Bryan, Zoom – April 20 Come together at the table with Bishop Bryan for reflections and conversations. How is it with your soul? What is going on in our conference and the general church you need to know? ​The conversation will begin at noon and will last approximately one hour. We will use the same Zoom link for all of these conversations, so once you register and receive the Zoom link you can save it for future conversations. If you misplace the link at ...

Connectional Ministries’ Book Club – April 6 Connectional Ministries invites South Georgia clergy and laity to join a virtual book club via Zoom. From the comfort of one’s home or office – anywhere, really – participants will discuss the week’s book, its important themes, and faith. The group’s first book is “How to Be an Anti-racist” by Ibram X. Kendi. Leading the discussion will be Lindsey and Rev. Andrew (Drew) Young, pastor of Mosaic Church in Savannah. The study will begin March 2 and run ...

By Dr. Tyler Plaxico, President/CEO, Wesley Glen Ministries, Inc. The Gospel of John tells us that Christ, our Lord, came to give us all life, abundant life. From this we see that it was always God’s desire for humanity to have a rich and satisfying life, rather than just a mere existence. At Wesley Glen Ministries, we believe that the goal of abundant life is the standard by which we seek to provide those under our care with a fullness of life through the very best care that we can offer. As...

Connectional Ministries’ Book Club – March 16 Connectional Ministries invites South Georgia clergy and laity to join a virtual book club via Zoom. From the comfort of one’s home or office – anywhere, really – participants will discuss the week’s book, its important themes, and faith. The group’s first book is “How to Be an Anti-racist” by Ibram X. Kendi. Leading the discussion will be Lindsey and Rev. Andrew (Drew) Young, pastor of Mosaic Church in Savannah. The study will begin March 2 and run ...

Join us Tuesday, March 16 and Tuesday, March 23 at noon or 5:30 p.m. as we gather around a virtual table for a time of reflection, conversation, and connection. We'll be talking with other South Georgia people about things that matter to South Georgia. We can't wait to see you! Register

You are invited to "Come to the Table for Justice & Hope" for this year's annual UMW Spiritual Growth Retreat. This weekend, March 19-20, South Georgia's United Methodist Women will gather at the virtual table to explore the question: how do Christian women stand firm in faith and witness in today's chaotic world? This year's speakers are Rev. Earnestine Campbell, senior pastor of Epworth UMC in Columbus, Rev. Christy Bandy, senior pastor of Cairo First UMC, and Bishop R. Lawson Bryan, episcopal...

Connectional Ministries’ Book Club – March 2 Connectional Ministries invites South Georgia clergy and laity to join a virtual book club via Zoom. From the comfort of one’s home or office – anywhere, really – participants will discuss the week’s book, its important themes, and faith. The group’s first book is “How to Be an Anti-racist” by Ibram X. Kendi. Leading the discussion will be Lindsey and Rev. Andrew (Drew) Young, pastor of Mosaic Church in Savannah. The study will begin March 2 and run ...

Alive Together at the Table with Bishop Bryan, Zoom – Feb. 16 Come together at the table with Bishop Bryan for reflections and conversations. How is it with your soul? What is going on in our conference and the general church you need to know? ​The conversations will begin at noon and 5:30 p.m. and each will last approximately one hour. We will use the same Zoom link for all of these conversations, so once you register and receive the Zoom link you can save it for future conversations. If you ...

Basic Lay Servant Ministries Training, Perry – Feb. 5-6 Lay Servant training is designed to educate those persons interested in stretching their faith to participate more fully in the ministries of the church. They have three main areas of focus: Leading, Caring, and Communicating. The basic class is based on Cokesbury’s book, “Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course,” which teaches a basic understanding of ministry in the United Methodist Tradition. Included in the course is the following: Wesleyan...

Alive Together at the Table with Bishop Bryan, Zoom – Jan. 19 Come together at the table with Bishop Bryan for reflections and conversations. How is it with your soul? What is going on in our conference and the general church you need to know? The conversation will begin at noon. We will use the same Zoom link for all of these conversations, so once you register and receive the Zoom link you can save it for future conversations. If you misplace the link at any point, feel free to register again....

Both/And Live Webinar with Jason Moore – Jan. 12 This 2-hour workshop (10 a.m. – noon) will delve into strategies for creating powerful, transformative worship where no one feels like they’re an afterthought for both online and in-person audiences. It will explore: Re-imagining worship for both/and; how to create interactive both/and experiences, bringing at home and in-person audiences together in real time, alternative opportunities for online audiences watching in-person livestreams, ...

Basic Lay Servant Ministries, Pelham – Jan. 15-16, 2021 Lay Servant training is designed to educate those persons interested in stretching their faith to participate more fully in the ministries of the church. They have three main areas of focus: Leading, Caring, and Communicating. The basic class is based on Cokesbury’s book, “Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course,” which teaches a basic understanding of ministry in the United Methodist Tradition. Included in the course is the following: Wesleyan...

Basic Lay Servant Ministries, Pelham – Jan. 15-16, 2021 Lay Servant training is designed to educate those persons interested in stretching their faith to participate more fully in the ministries of the church. They have three main areas of focus: Leading, Caring, and Communicating. The basic class is based on Cokesbury’s book, “Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course,” which teaches a basic understanding of ministry in the United Methodist Tradition. Included in the course is the following: Wesleyan...

Virtual Thanksgiving Agape Meal – Nov. 22 Bishop Lawson and Mrs. Sherrill Bryan invite the South Georgia Conference to join them in a virtual Thanksgiving Agape Meal at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 22. Intended to be a time of Christian fellowship and an opportunity to gather together virtually, the Thanksgiving Agape Meal will include music, guided prayer, time for contemplation, and personal witness. Visit www.sgaumc.org/agapemeal for more information and to join the meal. United Methodist Student ...

Advanced Lay Servant Training, Effingham – Nov. 6-7 Lay Servant training is designed to educate those persons interested in stretching their faith to participate more fully in the ministries of the church. They have three main areas of focus: Leading, Caring, and Communicating. The advanced class, based on Cokesbury’s book, “Each One a Minister,” by William Carter, is a study of the book of Ephesians and what it teaches about how we are called to use our spiritual gifts. Registration fee for the...

Conversations at the Table: Youth Ministry – Oct. 27 Grab some lunch, pull up a chair, and join Connectional Ministries for Conversations at the Table. This conversation will focus on youth ministry. We will share ideas, explore various topics, and become inspired. All conversations will be held via Zoom. Zoom link will be provided in your confirmation email once you register. Register now Advanced Lay Servant Training, Effingham – Nov. 6-7 Lay Servant training is designed to educate those ...

Advanced Lay Servant Training, via Zoom – Oct. 6, Oct. 8, Oct. 13, & Oct. 15 Lay Servant training is designed to educate those persons interested in stretching their faith to participate more fully in the ministries of the church. They have three main areas of focus: Leading, Caring, and Communicating. The advanced class, based on Cokesbury’s book, “Each One a Minister,” by William Carter, is a study of the book of Ephesians and what it teaches about how we are called to use our spiritual gifts....

Methodist Children’s Home Work Day Offering – Sept. 20 Every local church in South Georgia is encouraged to receive a special Work Day Offering to support the ministry of The Methodist Home for Children and Youth. The Work Day Offering for the Methodist Home is a tradition from the 1900s, a time when people, mostly farmers, donated the equivalent of one day’s wages to the Methodist Home. Sometimes they would load a freight car with cotton or peanuts and send it to Macon. Today folks just use a ...

Certified Lay Ministry Training – Sept. 12-Nov. 14 In this six-session course held at The Pointe in Leesburg, participants will develop a team of leaders and supporters within their current congregation who will encourage them throughout the course and beyond. Through the classes, they’ll build relationships with other South Georgia lay leaders and learn, practice, implement, share, and be inspired to take what they’ve learned and put it into action. The cost for the class is $300 per person, ...

CPC Zoom on Depression – Aug. 27 Conference Pastoral Counselor Rev. Deborah Wight-Knight will host a Zoom on depression from 10:30 a.m. until noon. The guest speaker will be Rev. Grace Guyton.  Certified Lay Ministry Training – Sept. 12 In this six-session course held at The Pointe in Leesburg, participants will develop a team of leaders and supporters within their current congregation who will encourage them throughout the course and beyond. Through the classes, they’ll build relationships ...

Annual Conference Commissioning Service, Virtual – Aug. 8 Those approved for provisional membership or full connection at the clergy session will be commissioned or ordained in a local church setting with only family present. The Commissioning Service is set for Saturday, August 8 at 2 p.m. The service will be live-streamed. More information: www.sgaumc.org/annualconference. Annual Conference Ordination Service, Virtual – Aug. 9 Those approved for provisional membership or full connection at ...

Zoom @ Noon: Virtual School – July 22 School systems are faced with difficult decisions for the 2020-21 year. Whether starting solely online or offering families options, how can churches partner with families, schools and their community navigating a safe learning environment? Isle of Hope UMC, Savannah is paving a way. Join us for a ZOOM @ Noon: Wednesday, July 22, 2020. We will host Chrissy Ruehl from Isle of Hope as she shares their plan for standing in the gap during this time and ...

Pastoral Care as a Gateway to Recovery, Part 2 – July 7 “Pastoral Care as a Gateway to Recovery from Addiction” is a three-part series for clergy led by Rev. Deborah Wight-Knight, Conference Pastoral Counselor. Deborah will interview experts in the area of recovery who can help our clergy identify addiction issues, consult appropriately with parishioners and others around the problem, learn about the “Intervention” process, and then know how/where to refer for treatment. These workshops will ...

Wesley Glen Day – June 21 Fathers’ Day is Wesley Glen Day across the South Georgia Conference. Show your support for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities by making a gift to Wesley Glen Ministries on June 16 in honor of a strong male role model in your life. Celebrate by wearing your favorite Wesley Glen T-shirt from past years. Post your pictures on social media with the tags: #WesleyGlenMinistries #growingtogether  www.wesleyglenministries.com. Pastoral Care as a Gateway to...

Zoom @ Noon: Making Choices for Financial Sustainability (churches w/avg. worship attendance up to 25) – June 2 For some, the pandemic has caused financial concerns in the life of the church. Join Bishop Bryan and Dr. Derek McAleer for a conversation around what a “financial reset” looks like and how a church can be better prepared for financial sustainability by making wise choices now. The conversation will provide guidance on how to look closely at where your church is financially and ...

Zoom @ Noon: Moving Pastors (NC and SW) – May 19 North Central and Southwest Districts: This informal “zoom at noon” conversation is for pastors who are moving this year. We will reflect together about what an unusual time this is, discuss ways to connect with the pastor whom you are following and the pastor who is following you, and share some ideas about how to leave well and arrive well. For the Zoom link, please contact your district office. Moving pastors are asked to attend the Zoom ...

Zoom @ Noon: Making a Plan, Opening Your Doors (churches w/avg. worship from 50-150) – May 5 The timing and preparations for local churches opening their doors will look different depending on the size of our congregations. This Zoom @ Noon will help clergy and church leaders think through various points of consideration by connecting with churches of similar size. What does a “rolling restart” look like for a church with 30 in attendance? With 100 in attendance? With over 250 in attendance? ​...

Native American Ministries Sunday – April 26 On Native American Ministries Sunday, United Methodists cultivate and support urban missions with Native Americans and fund scholarships for Native American seminarians. Your annual conference retains 50 percent of the offering is to strengthen and develop Native American ministries. However, if no Native American ministries exist in the conference, the entire offering is remitted to the General Council on Finance and Administration for Native ...

Native American Ministries Sunday – April 26 On Native American Ministries Sunday, United Methodists cultivate and support urban missions with Native Americans and fund scholarships for Native American seminarians. Your annual conference retains 50 percent of the offering is to strengthen and develop Native American ministries. However, if no Native American ministries exist in the conference, the entire offering is remitted to the General Council on Finance and Administration for Native ...

Epworth By The Sea will close for two weeks beginning March 16, 2020, at 5 p.m. The conference and retreat center on St. Simons Island, Ga. will remain open to individuals but will not serve any groups on campus. During this time, Epworth will have limited staff on site, but its administrative office will remain open.  Epworth By The Sea is monitoring the coronavirus situation closely and is following all CDC recommendations. Please follow the Epworth By The Sea Facebook page for up-to-date ...

UMCOR Sunday – March 22 UMCOR Sunday (fourth Sunday in Lent) enables the United Methodist Committee on Relief to reach out through worldwide ministries of food, shelter, health and peace. A special offering is taken on this day to support humanitarian aid through the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR). You can be assured that when catastrophes cause suffering, your church, impelled by Jesus' love and compassion, will be in the lead to ease the pain. Gifts to the UMCOR Sunday offering ...

Advanced Lay Speaking Class, Ellaville – March 6-7 A lay speaker is a professing member of a local church who is ready and desirous to serve the Church, and who is well informed on and committed to the Scriptures and the doctrine, heritage, organization, and life of The United Methodist Church. A lay speaker has completed the required training courses in lay speaking and has been approved by a district or annual conference committee on lay speaking. Lay speakers serve the local church by ...

Sexual Ethics Workshop – Feb. 20 According to the Conference Sexual Ethics policy, this workshop is required every three years for any person serving under appointment by the bishop (clergy, local pastors, extension ministers, appointed lay speakers). The Sexual Ethics Workshop will be held Thursday, Feb. 20 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at Pittman Park UMC in Statesboro. Register here. Cost is $35, which includes lunch (collected at the door). Checks can be made payable to South Georgia Conference....

Advanced Lay Speaking Class, Pelham – Feb. 7-8 A lay speaker is a professing member of a local church who is ready and desirous to serve the Church, and who is well informed on and committed to the Scriptures and the doctrine, heritage, organization, and life of The United Methodist Church. A lay speaker has completed the required training courses in lay speaking and has been approved by a district or annual conference committee on lay speaking. Lay speakers serve the local church by witnessing ...

ERT Basic Training, Pooler – Jan. 25 Be prepared to respond to the next disaster. Early response training covers the basics of early disaster response, including roof tarping, cleaning out damaged homes, spiritual and emotional care, team protocols, and more. The purpose of the training is to prepare our United Methodist volunteers to do good and do no harm. Cost is $25. At the training, participants will receive an ERT training manual and, upon completing the course, will receive an UMCOR ID ...

Leadership Tour, Warner Robins FUMC – Jan. 12 Leaders all across the South Georgia Conference have answered the call to serve in their local church setting. As a faithful member of your congregation, we know you want to serve and serve well! To help equip and empower you in your ministry role, the 2020 Leadership Tour will offer practical teaching and resources to both inspire you and help you lead with confidence. This free event is sponsored by the Office of Connectional Ministries. www.sgaumc...

Leadership Tour, Statesboro FUMC – Jan. 5, 2020 Leaders all across the South Georgia Conference have answered the call to serve in their local church setting. As a faithful member of your congregation, we know you want to serve and serve well! To help equip and empower you in your ministry role, the 2020 Leadership Tour will offer practical teaching and resources to both inspire you and help you lead with confidence. This free event is sponsored by the Office of Connectional Ministries. www.sgau...