Rio Texas Methodist Federation for Social Action

Support Mission at area churches by buying pumpkins.  Some of the churches participating with the Pumpkins USA, are Saint John’s UMC, St. Mark UMC, Tarrytown UMC, and Bethany UMC. Pumpkins USA contracts with the Navajo Indian reservation in New Mexico to grow pumpkins. This fundraising event not only helps our church, but the Navajo community as well.

Leadership and Anxiety in the Church – A Family Systems Perspective

October 15

Wednesday: 9:00am – 4:00pm

First United Methodist Church – Georgetown

410 E. University Ave., Georgetown

Since the publication of Dr. Edwin Friedman’s Generation to Generation, many pastors and other church leaders have become aware of Bowen family systems theory as a way of understanding congregational dynamics.  Family systems theory identifies differentiation of self and anxiety as two key variables impacting human functioning.  The seminar on Leadership and Anxiety in the Church looks at the challenge presented by the rising levels of anxiety being experienced in churches today, as well as the role that self-differentiated leadership can play in calming such anxiety.

For a copy of the registration form, click here.  Sponsor: Lombard Mennonite Peace Center

UMC Congress of the Deaf

October 17th – 19th, 2014

Oak Hill UMC

Austin, Texas

Oak Hill United Methodist Church is hosting the South Central Jurisdiction – United Methodist Congress of the Deaf on October 17, 18 and 19. Guest speaker Lindsey Darnell will present several workshops on building faith within the deaf community on Saturday.  Friday dinner and Saturday lunch and dinner are provided, and there will be Bible study and worship opportunities on Sunday.

For additional information and registration form, click here.

Getting a Handle on Hunger

On any given day, an estimated 4.2 million Texans are at risk of hunger. It is estimated that one in four of our state’s children live in families that cannot afford healthy food on a consistent basis. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Texas is the second-hungriest state in the nation.

Congregations are often the first places those in need turn to for assistance. Understanding the facts about hunger in our communities helps us address immediate needs and work for sustainable solutions.

Food policy experts often use the terms “food insecurity” and “food desert.” In our Summer Meals Promotion and our Digging Deeper section you can learn more about how you and your faith community can take action to alleviate hunger in your backyard.

The Better Neighbors Program provides information on a different public policy issue with local implications every month. In addition to the newsletter, you will also have other opportunities to engage around the monthly focus through webinars, phone calls, and in-person events throughout the state

http://texasimpact.org/.  This month’s focus is Food Insecurity.

Mediation Skill Training Institute for Church Leaders

Lombard Mennonite Peace Center

 November 17-21, 2014

First UMC

410 E. University Ave

Georgetown, Tx

Conflict is normal and inevitable – whether in the home, school, community, church or workplace.  Leaders in all walks of life often have a responsibility to help others work through their conflicts.

The Mediation Skills Training Institute presented by the Lombard Mennonite Peace Center (LMPC) is designed to equip church leaders with the skills necessary to deal effectively with interpersonal, congregational, and other forms of group conflict. The five-day institute also includes a component on congregational mediation and consultation, placed within the context of family systems theory.

For more information and Registration Form, click here and here.

MFSA National E-News Newsletter

http://mfsaweb.org/?page_id=212

MFSA Spring 2014 Progressive Voice is available for download at:

http://mfsaweb.org/wp-content/uploads/TPV_draft_April4(1).pdf

Current Faith in Action from General Board of Church & Society –

http://umc-gbcs.org/faith-in-action

Reconciling Ministries newsletter:  http://www.rmnetwork.org