2008 Workshop Descriptions

BOOK OF CONFESSIONS – John Doubles

The more things change, the more they remain the same; a look at what the church believed and pro/confessed across the span of time." Looking at the lesser known part of our Constitution: The Book of Confessions. Participants are asked to bring a copy of the Book of Confessions with them, if possible.   John Doubles is the pastor at Santee Presbyterian Church.  He is a graduate of Wofford College , Coker College , Union/PSCE and Columbia Seminary.  John has just completed two terms as a member of the Congregational Development Ministry Unit for Charleston Atlantic Presbytery.  (Session 2)

BOOK OF ORDER – Sidney Davis

This workshop will allow us to cover the biblical foundations of our Presbyterian system, how the Book of Order works, and how it serves lay people and ministers in our church.  Participants are asked to bring a copy of the Book of Order with them.  Sidney Davis is the pastor of Zion-Olivet Presbyterian Church. He has served Charleston Atlantic Presbytery as a member of the Committee on Ministry. (Session 3)

 

BRINGING YOUR CHURCH INTO THE 21ST CENTURY: TECHNOLOGY IN THE SANCTUARY – Victor Quarterman with Rob Bellacicco

How can technology support your church’s needs? This workshop will be an open Q & A session on bringing your church up to speed on audio or video for worship services and fellowship events. We will also address handling “Gremlins” in your current A/V system. Victor Quarterman has been equipping and supporting churches in the Charleston area for over 30 years and Rob is a member of Mt. Pleasant PC, assisting with numerous technological needs in their church. (Session 1)

 

CALLED TO BE A DEACON – Bill Duggan

An overview of the role and duties of a deacon as set forth in scripture and defined by the Book of Order. Bill is currently serving his 2nd term as a deacon at Sea Island Presbyterian Church in Beaufort, SC and his 3rd term as Moderator of the Diaconate. (Session 2)

CALLED TO BE AN ELDER – Donnie Woods

This workshop will help you understand and appreciate the nature of your call as an ordained elder. Discussion topics will include biblical models of elders in the Old and New Testaments and the responsibilities of the Session as stated in the Book of Order. Participants are asked to bring a copy of the Book of Order with them. Donnie Woods is the Executive Presbyter of Charleston Atlantic Presbytery. He is a graduate of Mary Holmes College , Mississippi State University and Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary. (Sessions 2, 3 and 4)

 

CHILDREN IN WORSHIP – Kathy Dawson

This workshop explores the participation of children in worship: why they should be there and how we prepare them for full participation. Kathy Dawson is Assistant Professor of Christian Education at Columbia Theological Seminary. Her work at Columbia includes teaching courses in faith and human development, spiritual lives of children, models of teaching curriculum and resources, and teaching young children. (Session 2 and 3)

 

CHURCH TREASURERS – Doug Szubski

This informative workshop will include as many of the following topics as we can fit into our time frame:  functions of treasurers, reporting, internal controls, record keeping, non-profit accounting, pastor compensation and audits/reviews.  Doug Szubski is a certified public accountant and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. He is a past president of the National Association of Accountants, Charleston Chapter and serves as a board member of several social and civic organizations. Doug has also served as a church treasurer. (Session 1)

 

CLERKS OF SESSION – Jim Deavor

We will look at the nuts and bolts of the work of the clerk, including the constitutional duties. Jim Deavor has been Clerk of Session at Westminster Presbyterian Church since January 2000. He also serves as Chair of Council for Charleston Atlantic Presbytery. (Session 1)

 

CONFIRMATION-A COMMITMENT TO FUN! – Jan Day

All too often the Confirmation process is a boring time for our youth with little insight into what it really means in their life. Join me for some creative (and fun) ways to make this time of commitment a joy! Jan Day is a Christian Educator and Elder, with a lifelong commitment to children and youth in the church! (Session 2)

 

CRACKING THE CODE: BIBLE STUDY FOR YOUTH – Gina Yeager-Buckley

Does it seem like an impossible task? Connecting young people with the scripture? Connecting their lives to God’s Word? It isn’t! Participants in this class will explore several simple ways to read and explore the Bible with youth; ways that utilize easy to find supplies, basic development concepts and creative approaches. This interactive workshop will offer participants a variety of ways to read, hear and connect God’s life giving and life changing Word.  Gina Yeager-Buckley serves as the Associate for Ministries with Youth for the Presbyterian Church ( USA ). Gina is a frequent speaker and teacher in both the Presbyterian and ecumenical areas of ministry. Focusing her work on congregational youth ministry practices, as well as developmental issues in adolescence, Gina is passionate about young people and adults called to serve God as they serve young people.  (Session 5)

 

CROSSING BOUNDARIES: EMBRACING THE CALL OF MULTICULTURALISM – Eddie Soto

This workshop will give a brief history of the immigration of Latin Americans to the United States and the reason why they are here. Many of the Latin Americans coming to our country are Protestants and Presbyterians who want to worship with their brothers and sisters in this country. We’ll look at opportunities and a variety of ways our congregations can be involved in reaching out to the Latin Americans within the borders of our Presbytery. It will also provide a time for questions to address concerns as to the immigration problem. Eriberto (Eddie) Soto was born in New York City of Puerto Rican parents who came to the US after World War II. He worked for the American Bible Society, went to a theological college in Costa Rica and to Guatemala where he became a Presbyterian. Ordained as a Minister with his Master of Divinity and Master of Theology, he has served as professor of Church History and Systematic Theology. He presently serves as Associate for Latin American Ministries of the Charleston Atlantic Presbytery. (Session 1 and 3)

 

DEALING WITH CHURCH CONFLICT – Philip West

We will consider various approaches to conflict management using case studies and resources. Philip West has been a pastor in the PCUSA for 20 years. He has served in small, medium, large and mega churches in the South. He currently is the pastor at Harbor View Presbyterian Church. (Sessions 2 and 3)

 

DISASTER RESPONSE:  PLANNING FOR YOUR CHURCH AND YOUR FAMILY – John Dumas

Does your church have a disaster response plan? We will review the STEPS that our church is now implementing to prepare for a natural disaster, react during the time of a disaster, and respond following a disaster. In addition, we will look at steps that your family can take to be adequately prepared. We will also review the disaster response model plan that has been developed and discuss the role of the congregation disaster response coordinator. John Dumas is President of Southeastern Design and Development, Inc. He has been a registered architect for 34 years. He has a BS in Architecture from Ohio State University and a Master of Architecture from Clemson University . He is Chairman of the Building Codes and Appeals Board for Dorchester County . John currently is a member of Council for Charleston Atlantic Presbytery and a member of Summerville Presbyterian Church. (Session 2)

 

DISCIPLESHIP – Henry Rivers

The Christian journey of discipleship is our response to a call from Jesus Christ to be his disciple. This journey requires a commitment to deny self, take up the cross and follow Jesus. What does this really mean? What does it mean to take on Jesus’ yoke? How do we surrender to the Lordship of Jesus Christ? Understanding that Christian discipleship is a life long commitment, this session will be an interactive presentation of these issues. Henry Rivers is a native Charlestonian. He has served the Presbyterian Church as an elder, deacon, trustee, church school teacher, youth leader and currently is the Pastor and Educator at Hebron Zion Presbyterian Church on Johns Island . He has been a member of several Ministry units serving the Charleston Atlantic Presbytery. Henry was a Commissioner to the 217th General Assembly. (Session 1)

 

DRAMA IN WORSHIP – Dianna Wright

Using a variety of dramatic styles, we will learn some ways to take the biblical texts and share them through readers’ theater, pantomime, narratives, first person accounts, and other dramatic interpretations, bringing the texts alive in new and exciting ways. Dianna Wright grew up in the Edisto Presbyterian Church. She is a graduate of Union/PSCE and Columbia Seminary.  Dianna is the founder and director of the Kuumba Center for Christian Education and Spiritual Growth and is now serving as the African American Advocate in Salem Presbytery.  (Session 2)

 

EARTH STEWARDSHIP:  A CALL TO RESTORE CREATION – Dr Mariah Whitehead

Over 15 years ago the 202nd General Assembly of Presbyterian Church (USA) made a statement about the Church’s responsibility which “recognizes and accepts restoring creation as a central concern of the church, to be incorporated into its life and mission at every level…”  Join us in this workshop to learn more about the call to restore creation, its biblical basis, and easy steps that you and your church can take to be a part of this mission.  Dr. Maria Whitehead is a member of Mt Pleasant Presbyterian Church and is a Project Director at The Nature Conservancy. (Session 1)

 

EQUIPPING ELEMENTARY TEACHERS – Lori Bellacicco

We will cover the use of the multiple intelligences in Christian Education including the use of learning centers, music and art to “accessorize” your curriculum and reach elementary children through a wide variety of teaching techniques.  Lori Bellacicco is Director of Children’s Ministries at Mt. Pleasant Presbyterian Church. She has taught both regular education and special education classes and has worked as a Guidance Counselor in an elementary school. Lori loves children and enjoys teaching all ages. (Sessions 1, 2 and 4)

 

A FAITH JOURNEY IN SONGS WITH PEOPLE OF DIFFERENT CULTURES– Melva Costen

Experience the joy of singing through the experiences of people from around the globe!! We may be hesitant at first…it’s the fear of mispronouncing words in the new language, but the language is only new to us. It may be the fear of the strange rhythms…but are the rhythms really strange? Come with us anyway and you will soon feel the excitement of worshiping with the people of God in other places and nations around the globe, down the street…and maybe even next door!! Experience the Joy! Dr. Melva Costen is a widely recognized authority on music and worship. She is the Helmar Emil Nielson Professor of Music and Worship emeriti at the Interdenominational Theological Seminary in Atlanta and continues to be in demand as a clinician, visiting professor, and consultant throughout the U.S. and abroad. She was chair of the committee that created the 1990 PCUSA hymnal.  (Session 4)

 

GREETING MINISTRY – Dianna Wright

Do you consider yourself a friendly congregation?  Most of us do, yet you might be surprised by how a visitor rates your “friendliness.”  We’ll take a look at your church, from the parking lot to the pew, discovering ways to become a visitor friendly church while sharing ideas for developing or re-energizing your greeting ministry.   Dianna Wright Dianna Wright grew up in the Edisto Presbyterian Church. She is a graduate of Union/PSCE and Columbia Seminary.  Dianna is the founder and director of the Kuumba Center for Christian Education and Spiritual Growth and is now serving as the African American Advocate in Salem Presbytery.  (Session 3)

 

GROWING IN FAITH: THE MINISTRY OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION – Pie Mikell

What’s happening in Christian Education today? Are there effective ways of sharing the faith with children, youth and adults? How do we organize the church’s educational ministry? Do we need a “Safe Place Covenant”? How do we select curriculum? How do we invite others to be a part of our educational ministry? These questions and more will be considered in this workshop. Pie Mikell serves as Associate for Congregational Nurture of Charleston Atlantic Presbytery. She is a graduate of the Presbyterian School of Christian Education and is a certified educator. (Sessions 2 and 3)

 

HANDBELLS: MORE THAN JUST THE PRELUDE – Jane Jude

Handbells provide a delightful addition to the worship experience. While pieces played on bells alone are lovely as preludes or offertory selections, there are many other opportunities to combine bells with voices and other instruments during worship services. We will introduce music that can be played with various instruments, by children and adult choirs and during various parts of the worship service. For churches with just a few handbell ringers, various liturgical ringing styles will be demonstrated so every congregation can experience the sustaining quality of handbell tones. Jane Jude directs the Carillon and Inspire-Ring Handbell choirs at First Presbyterian Church on Hilton Head Island . She is a graduate of Presbyterian College in Clinton, SC. (Session 1)

 

THE HEART OF WORSHIP: SHARING GOD’S PASSION FOR JUSTICE – Spike Coleman

We will discuss passages of Scripture (Yes, please bring your BIBLE!) that bear witness to worship and express the passion and joy of God’s heart. As we do, we will consider how the biblical witness shapes our worship in ways that enable us to share God’s passion for justice. Spike is the pastor of St. Andrews Presbyterian Church and is passionate about justice. He serves on the Presbytery’s Church and Society Ministry Unit and has been instrumental in providing opportunities for Presbytery wide events focusing on mission and justice. (Session 2)

 

A JOYFUL JOURNEY WITH HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH - Chandler Guess

Ministry with 9th-12th graders requires creativity, a heart for young people and options galore. Come explore tried and true resources and interactive teaching methods that connect youth with God as they explore their faith in the Sunday school setting. Chandler Guess serves as Director of Christian Education at Northminster Presbyterian Church in Hickory, NC. Chandler grew up in Summerville and is a graduate of Presbyterian College . She has a passion for mission, outreach and travel. Chandler studied in Vietnam and has planned, implemented and participated in mission trips to Haiti . (Session 1)

 

THE JOY OF HYMNS – Charles Frost

This workshop will explore the many uses of hymns.  In addition to singing them in worship, we will explore how the hymnal serves as a devotional resource in the home, an anthem collection for the choir, resource for soloists, and the many ways to use parts of hymns as responses. This workshop is geared for the lay person as well as the musician. Charles Frost is a native of Red Bank, New Jersey, who began his music studies at an early age, playing the organ and directing choirs in churches as a high school sophomore. He has a Bachelors and Masters of Music in Church Music. Charles has  served churches in New Jersey, New York, California, Washington, and Michigan, prior to his arrival at Sea island Presbyterian Church where he serves as the Minister of Music, organist and choir director.  He has appeared in recitals in many churches across the country and leads numerous workshops and choir retreats.    (Sessions 1 and 4)

 

KNOWING AS WE ARE KNOWN – Kathy Dawson

This workshop explores the classic text, To Know As We Are Known by Parker Palmer. We will look closely at his claims that “to teach is to create a space in which obedience to truth is practiced”, and its implications for our educational ministry in congregations. Kathy Dawson is Assistant Professor of Christian Education at Columbia Theological Seminary. Her work at Columbia includes teaching courses in faith and human development, spiritual lives of children, models of teaching curriculum and resources, and teaching young children. (Session 1)

 

LET THE CHILDREN COME TO ME!: INCLUDING CHILDREN IN WORSHIP AS LEADERS – Dee Bee Wright

We will discuss the formation of an acolyte team, including training ideas, vestments, scheduling and oversight. If your church is interested in forming a team, please come to gather ideas. If you already have a team, please come to share! Dee Bee Wright is an elder and chair of the Christian Education Committee at Westminster Presbyterian Church. (Session 3)

 

LITURGICAL DANCE – Rachel “Rae” Epps

Learn how to create movement appropriate for all worship formats inspired from Biblical texts. The workshop participants will create a dance together. Rae Epps has been dancing her whole life and is now a ballet and musical theatre teacher at Once Upon a Ballet. She has led several liturgical dance workshops in the Presbyterian Church and is pleased to share her passion with STEPS. (Session 3)

 

MARKETING YOUR CHURCH IN THE 21st CENTURY - Cheryl Glenn

Whether you’re on church staff or simply interested in communications, join us for this workshop where we will look into the most effective ways to communicate your message; E-newsletters, websites, color printing and beyond.  Bring your ideas to share with the group and come ready to be inspired!  Cheryl Glenn is on staff at Mt Pleasant Presbyterian Church as the Publications Manager and also does freelance design work for area churches and businesses.  (Session 1)

 

THE MIRACLE IS IN THE STORY – THE ART OF STORYTELLING – Becky Dingle

Come experience the joy of storytelling – its history, its message and its place in the modern world of technology. Examples of various storytelling techniques will be demonstrated throughout this interactive, fun workshop! Becky Dingle was an 8th grade Social Studies teacher for 28 years. She is an Independent Educational Consultant and a Professional Storyteller. (Sessions 1, 2 and 4)

 

MY ROLE IN COMMUNION AND BAPTISM – Jan Day

What role does an adult or parent play in the life of a child when it is time for the Sacraments of Baptism and Communion? How do we explain this to our children? Join me as we ENJOY the Sacraments through the eyes of a child. Jan Day is a Christian Educator, Elder, Mother and Grandmother who is living out the Sacramental Journey! (Session 3)

 

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN:  WORKING IN NEW WAYS – Dorothy Kelley

We’ll review the Presbyterian Women’s Purpose and identify what we are doing to provide opportunities for service for all Presbyterian Women in order to fulfill each part of that purpose.  Dottie Kelley moved to Charleston 3 ½ years ago and joined the PCUSA.  Her primary focus is on local and global missions and serves as the PCT Moderator.  (Session 2)

 

PRESBYTERIAN YOUTH CONNECTION LIVE! – Andrew Yeager-Buckley, Gina Yeager-Buckley & Kenneth Slifer

We're often so busy planning, that we don't REALLY get to participate in the events we put together.  Come to your own personal "youth group" with Gina, Andrew, and Kenneth.  The good news - no need to plan.  We'll have all the details taken care of (even snacks!).  The best news - you will step away rejuvenated and with a few ideas for your own groups.  Come prepared to laugh, share, and learn in the STEPS Youth Group!  Bring your youth to our Sunday workshops and stay for this great event.   (Sunday Following Session 5)

 

PRESCHOOLERS: JOYFULLY LAYING THE FAITH FOUNDATION – Gloria Parlor (Session 2 & 3) Carrie Simpson (Session 4)

As preschool teachers, we have the amazing task of helping to nurture our little ones as they grow in their faith. In this workshop, we will explore how young children learn, providing a variety of resources, activities, and examples of effective teaching methods to use with three to five-year-olds. Gloria Parlor served as a school teacher and social worker after graduation from college.   As a member of Hebron Zion Presbyterian Church, she served as Sunday school teacher and youth advisor.  She also spent some rewarding years being inspired and challenged by the children as a teacher in Early Childhood Development at the John and Mattie Washington Preschool.   Carrie Simpson teaches pre-kindergarten at Windsor Hill Elementary School in North Charleston, is president of the South Carolina Early Childhood Association (District 1), and serves Montreat as adjunct staff for summer youth conferences. An elder at Dorchester Presbyterian Church, she has been a Sunday school teacher and youth advisor. (Sessions 2, 3 and 4)

 

READING MY BIBLE Zeta Lamberson

The greatest story ever told is at our fingertips, but where do we begin to gain a deeper knowledge of God’s Holy Word? Join us as we learn some helpful hints to making God’s story our story. Zeta Lamberson is the Associate Pastor of MacLand Presbyterian Church in Powder Springs , GA. She leads the Large Church Pre-Conference at APCE and has served as President of the APCE South Atlantic & Puerto Rico Region. (Sessions 3 and 4)

 

RECRUITING, ASSIMILATING AND RETAINING VOLUNTEERS: HOW TO GET’EM AND KEEP’EM – Hugh Ballou

One of the biggest challenges in ministry is the effective use of volunteers. Gather ideas on how to recruit the right people for the right job and how to make sure that they do the right things. Discover ways to get untangled with antagonists. Hugh Ballou has been working for many years with leaders in businesses, schools, churches, non-profit organizations and community groups, leading project teams to find consensus, even with very difficult decisions. Before his full-time work as facilitator, consultant and executive coach, he served as Director of Worship Ministries, staff strategist and facilitator in churches with up to 12,000 members. (Sessions 3 and 4)

 

RISK MANAGEMENT IN THE CHURCH – Henry Meeuwse

With insurance companies cracking down on churches, what kind of policies are necessary to maintain a safe environment for our congregations? This workshop will help you answer this question and provide you with great resources as well.  Henry is Director of James Island Presbyterian Foundation and Associate in Ministry at James Island Presbyterian Church. He develops/manages a variety of community outreach ministries including their Child Development Center , counseling center, thrift store, Summer Day Camps, after school programs, housing for visiting work groups, and more. (Session 1)

 

SING A JOYFUL SONG ! – Melva Costen

This workshop is designed to enhance the skills of persons with choral music reading abilities and prior choral experiences. Participants must be willing to help prepare choral music in preparation for worship leadership for the Saturday afternoon worship service. Some of the music MAY be unfamiliar, therefore, a lot of energy and prayer will be required. This workshop spans both workshop sessions 2 and 3. Dr. Melva Costen is a widely recognized authority on music and worship. She is the Helmar Emil Nielson Professor of Music and Worship emeriti at the Interdenominational Theological Seminary in Atlanta and continues to be in demand as a clinician, visiting professor, and consultant throughout the U.S. and abroad. She was chair of the committee that created the 1990 PCUSA hymnal.   (Sessions 2 and 3 – must sign up for BOTH sessions)

 

SMALL GROUPS, BIG IMPACT! – Chandler Guess (session 3)  Rebecca Guzman (session 4 and 5)

How do I remember twenty-plus names? What do I do if I get a “hard to handle” participant? How am I supposed to know how to lead a small group if I’ve never done it before? If you’ve ever asked yourself any of these questions OR would like a refresher course in Small Group Leading, then this workshop is for you. Youth AND adults are invited to this “learn by doing it” workshop designed to equip you to lead any small group, in a BIG way! Chandler Guess serves as Director of Christian Education at Northminster Presbyterian Church in Hickory, NC. Chandler grew up in Summerville and is a graduate of Presbyterian College . She has a passion for mission, outreach and travel. Chandler studied in Vietnam and has planned, implemented and participated in mission trips to Haiti .  Rebecca Guzman is a Charleston native currently working toward her Master’s in Christian Education at Union-PSCE in Richmond, VA. She has served on staff at First Presbyterian in Orangeburg as the Director of Youth and Children’s Ministries. She enjoys chocolate, Folly Beach and people of all ages. (Sessions 3, 4 and 5)

 

SPIRITUALITY CENTER : NEW WAYS OF CONNECTING WITH GOD – Lonna Chang-Ren Lee

Come and experience new dimensions of prayer and study to deepen your walk with God. This workshop will provide time to experience spiritual disciplines and gain resources to expanding your church’s spiritual life. There will be opportunities to walk the Labyrinth, to make and use a Journal, to see what resources for discipleship and spirituality are on the worldwide web, and to experience new ways of praying and studying and experiencing God’s word. The Spirituality Center will be open for the rest of the event, so if you’d like to spend a session in the center, you are welcome to do so.  Lonna Chang-Ren Lee is a graduate of San Francisco Theological Seminary and has served as an Associate Pastor and Co-Pastor to two San Francisco churches. She has been very active in the PCUSA as a keynote speaker, preacher, and writer for Montreat Youth Conferences, Presbyterian Peacemaking Program and Stewardship Resources. She has led numerous retreats and studies on spiritual disciplines for Mt. Pleasant Presbyterian Church since moving to SC in 2006. (Session 1)

 

STEPS OF FAITH IN STEWARDSHIP – Olin Whitener

Studying, Teaching, Equipping, Praying and Serving as Faithful Stewards of God’s Gifts.  Participants are urged to bring their Bibles, as you will be using them. Olin Whitener is a retired minister, currently serving as an Interim Minister at Eastminster Presbyterian Church in Columbia, SC. He served as interim at First Presbyterian Church, Orangeburg,  He served the Darlington Presbyterian Church in Darlington , SC for seventeen years. (Session 3)

 

TEACHING FAITH TO ADULTS – Zeta Lamberson

Teaching adults is fun and challenging. How do we help adults learn what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ? Growing in our faith involves knowledge, emotion and response. Join us as we explore ways to touch the mind, the heart, and the feet. Zeta Lamberson is the Associate Pastor of MacLand Presbyterian Church in Powder Springs , GA. She leads the Large Church Pre-Conference at APCE and has served as President of the APCE South Atlantic and Puerto Rico Region. (Session 2)

 

THETHOUGHTFULCHRISTIAN.COM  FOR ADULTS – Andrew Yeager-Buckley

The Thoughtful Christian is a Web-based resource center designed to meet a growing demand for online Christian education materials. It was created after researching various sizes of Presbyterian churches and educational programs. Bible study should be timely. It should stimulate our thoughts about Christian values and how they relate to today’s world. Perfect for Sunday school classes, Bible study groups, or individual reflection, the studies encourage participants to share their thoughts and beliefs while wrestling with questions that inform the way we live out our faith in everyday life. We will discuss how the program works and walk through a sample session. Andrew Yeager-Buckley, Associate for Electronic Product Management for The Presbyterian Publishing Corporation (U.S.A.), supports the continuing online growth of TheThoughtfulChristian.com as well as targets new ways to support PPC’s online presence. Andrew is a youth ministry volunteer, former PYC Co Moderator and is active with the Presbyterian Youth Workers’ Association. Andrew is married to Gina. They live and work in Louisville , Kentucky . (Sessions 1 and 3)

 

THETHOUGHTFULCHRISTIAN.COM FOR TEENS – Andrew Yeager-Buckley

See description above    (Sessions 4 and 5)

 

THIS LITTLE LIGHT OF MINE, I’M GOING TO LET IT SHINE! – Dee Bee Wright

This workshop is for 2nd through 5th graders interested in learning to be an acolyte. We will discuss the various parts of the worship service, discuss the acolyte’s role as a worship leader, play games to reinforce our learning, learn about the acolyte’s vestments and practice, practice, practice!  Dee Bee Wright is an elder and chair of the Christian Education Committee at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Charleston . (Session 4)

 

WALK WITH ME: THE ADULT ROLE IN YOUTH MINISTRY – Gina Yeager-Buckley

Perhaps the most significant relationship in youth ministry is that of the adult called to accompany a young person in their journey with Christ. What are healthy, creative and “alive” adults offering to young people in the church? How can we encourage these kinds of life giving relationships and leadership? What are our models? How do our own needs influence our style of BEING with young people? Participants in this reflective workshop will explore some of the “pictures” of healthy adults in youth ministry, ideas for ACCOMPANIMENT and biblical reflections about Christian leadership. Gina Yeager-Buckley serves as the Associate for Ministries with Youth for the Presbyterian Church ( USA ). Gina is a frequent speaker and teacher in both the Presbyterian and ecumenical areas of ministry. Focusing her work on congregational youth ministry practices, as well as developmental issues in adolescence, Gina is passionate about young people and adults called to serve God as they serve young people. (Sessions 2 and 4)

 

WAYS WE WORSHIP TODAY – Jon Brown

Worship can be filled with wonder and awe whether we prefer a more contemporary or traditional setting. What’s more important is that it be true and authentic and worthy of God’s audience. This workshop will explore models and resources for authentic awe-filled worship using examples from the Iona Community, Taize Community, and the emergent church. Come discover a new dimension of God-infused worship! Jon Brown serves you as Director for Mission Interpretation in the offices of the General Assembly Council for the Presbyterian Church ( U.S.A. ). He has pastored congregations in Hendersonville , NC and Charleston , SC , as well as working as a conference program director at Montreat Conference Center in NC.  At heart, Jon is just a spiritual nerd boy who still find’s life’s greatest joy resting in the curve of God’s smile. (Session 2)

 

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE PRESBYTERIAN? ADULT FOCUS – Sidney Davis (Sessions 1 and 2)  Chuck Goodman (Session 4)

Learn some new ways to celebrate and explore the hallmarks of being Presbyterian. This workshop will explore questions raised by participants as well as prepared topics for sharing in current educational settings.  Sidney Davis is the pastor of Zion-Olivet Presbyterian Church.  Chuck Goodman is the Associate Pastor for Youth and Families at Mt. Pleasant Church . Throughout his 15+ years of ordained ministry, he has always loved working with youth and being Presbyterian. He loves spending time with his wife, Lonna Lee and their 5 ½ year old daughter Ruby. (Sessions 1, 2 and 4)

 

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE PRESBYTERIAN? YOUTH FOCUS– Chuck Goodman

The hallmarks of being Presbyterian are important to share in Youth Ministry today as a means of claiming identity and a sense of belonging in an increasingly denominationally-fuzzy world.  Chuck Goodman is the Associate Pastor for Youth and Families at Mt. Pleasant Church . Throughout his 15+ years of ordained ministry, he has always loved working with youth and being Presbyterian. He loves spending time with his wife, Lonna Lee and their 5 ½ year old daughter Ruby. (Sessions 4 and 5)

 

WHAT’S NEW IN STEWARDSHIP - Jon Brown

Drawing upon the best resources and practices among our Presbyterian Churches and ecumenical cohorts, the denomination is redesigning Stewardship tools for congregations. “A Season of Interpretation” is scheduled to launch in 2009 to help churches inspire their members toward more faithful and generous giving. Come learn first, and first-hand, what you can expect in the days ahead. Scripture tells us when God had created the world, God said, “It is very good”. George MacLeod said, “Matter matters”. We echo these affirmations when we learn how to engage all the gifts of our lives to the purposes of God’s glory. Jon Brown serves you as Director for Mission Interpretation in the offices of the General Assembly Council for the Presbyterian Church ( U.S.A. ). He has pastored congregations in Hendersonville , NC and Charleston , SC , as well as working as a conference program director at Montreat Conference Center in NC. At heart, Jon is just a spiritual nerd boy who still find’s life’s greatest joy resting in the curve of God’s smile. (Session 4)

 

THE WINNING TEAM – Hugh Ballou

The workshop will focus on systems and structures for leading and empowering transformation, providing useful ideas for any leader’s “toolbox” that are immediately usable and practical. Hugh Ballou has been working for many years with leaders in businesses, schools, churches, non-profit organizations and community groups, leading project teams to find consensus, even with very difficult decisions. Before his full-time work as facilitator, consultant and executive coach, he served as Director of Worship Ministries, staff strategist and facilitator in churches with up to 12,000 members. (Session 1)

 

WORSHIP EXPERIENCES FOR YOUTH – Cheryl Glenn

In this workshop we’ll look at music as well as other ways to engage youth in worship.  Beyond musical styles, we’ll look into ways we can lead youth in worship and help them connect with God using prayer experiences, lectio divina, multimedia, fresh approaches to hymns, and resources that will help you pull it all together.  Cheryl Glenn is on staff at Mt Pleasant Presbyterian Church, is a member there, and volunteers her time leading children and youth in musical worship.  Cheryl has led music for presbytery retreats, ARW, and her music has taken her throughout the world. (Sessions 4 and 5)

 

YOUTH 2 YOUTH – Joshua C. Jackson

This course is led by youth for youth. Folks college-age and younger will learn lots of new, active games guaranteed to leave you breathless and laughing hard. Joshua Jackson graduated from Warren Wilson College in 2007 with a degree in Outdoor Leadership. He loves to hike, bike and snow ski. He also likes to dumpster dive and eat, but not at the same time. (Sessions 4 and 5)

 

YOUTH MINISTRY STEPS FORWARD – Chuck Goodman

Come together to talk about Youth Ministry in Charleston Atlantic Presbytery and share the struggles and successes of Youth Ministry today. Chuck Goodman is the Associate Pastor for Youth and Families at Mt. Pleasant Church . Throughout his 15+ years of ordained ministry, he has always loved working with youth and being Presbyterian. He loves spending time with his wife, Lonna Lee & their 5 ½ year old daughter, Ruby. (Session 3)