My Job Workshop better equips laity,
local leaders for service in congregations

My Job Workshop 2008 will be Jan. 19 from 8:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Grace UMC, 11222 Leopard St., Corpus Christi. The event is sponsored by the Corpus Christi District and will provide quality leadership training for the laity.
My Job Workshop offers a prime opportunity for both new and experienced leaders to become better equipped to do the work God has called them to do in local church. Pastors are encouraged
to attend as well.
The great lineup of topics and presenters offers something for everyone, and training is provided free to participants.
Free childcare will be available at Grace UMC. Parents needing this service must preregister all children by indicating their number and age(s) on the registration form.
All local churches are encouraged to take advantage of this training opportunity. Brochures have been mailed to pastors, lay leaders and other committee chairs in all local churches. The brochure includes the event schedule, a description of all topics available and a registration form. Preregistration for this free event will help to ensure sufficient handout materials.
Participants may choose one extended-length workshop or two 75-minute sessions.

Extended-length workshops
(9:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m.)
Finance and the Local Church: Provides an in-depth look at local church finances and will help church treasurers, Finance Committee chairs and members understand duties and responsibilities of this important committee. Led by the Rev. David Seilheimer, treasurer of the Southwest Texas Conference.
PPRC/SPRC Role & Responsibilities: The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church states that the Pastor/Staff Parish Relations Committee shall “confer and counsel with the pastor and staff in making an effective ministry, keeping the pastor and staff advised concerning conditions within the congregation as they affect relationships between the pastor and the people.” In this session, PPR/SPR chairs and committee members will learn the role and responsibilities of the PPRC/SPRC. Led by the Rev. Barbara J. Ruth, Corpus Christi District superintendent.

Workshops presented twice
(9:45-11 a.m. and 11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.)
The Role of the Trustees in the Local Church: What exactly are the trustees supposed to do? Are they the ones who fix things around the property? How do the trustees, the Church Council/Administrative Board and the pastor work together? Learn about responsibilities of being a trustee, including the Annual Report that must be prepared by the trustees for Charge Conference. Led by Richard Pifer, First UMC, Odem.
Early Christian Awareness Program: Learn about an exciting Christian education program designed for very young children—infant to age 3. See how children can have a faith experience through visual, auditory and all other senses, teaching them that they are made and loved by God and that God made all things. Led by Cheryl Duke, First UMC, Beeville.
What Every Church Member Should Know About Poverty: From inner-city mainline churches to rural parishes, congregations of all denominations and faiths struggle with the challenge of service to the poor. To be effective, we need to know what poverty does to human beings. What have they experienced? What are their real needs? How can they be integrated into our congregations, become members, rise above their past and offer their gifts and skills in return? Led by Dudley and Ernie Bainum, Grace UMC, Corpus Christi.
Acting Up in Church: No drama experience needed! Simple ideas for bringing worship into this century through the use of impromptu skits that impact our modern culture. Tough topics can be easily preached through short, humorous but powerful words delivered by members of the congregation. Led by the Rev. Carol Pifer and members of First UMC, Odem.
Preparing the Soil for Small Group Ministry: Participants will explore the best practice steps for starting a small group ministry and what is needed to sustain it. Led by Troy Dunn, director of community life, Alamo Heights UMC, San Antonio.
Mail registration form to Cheryl Worley, Corpus Christi District, 3510 Gollihar Road, Corpus Christi 78415. Fax forms to (361) 852-3370, or e-mail them to ccprogram@bizstx.rr.com.
For more information call the District Office at (361) 852-8268.