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February 8, 2024

The Vine UMC introduces a 7-week Bible study/sermon series on Acts

The Vine UMC is thrilled to introduce "Acts Continued: The Boundless Work of the Spirit," a seven-week Bible Study and Sermon Series that seeks to rekindle your faith and deepen your understanding of the Holy Spirit's dynamic role in both the early church and our lives today. Written in collaboration with clergy of TWK and produced by The Vine UMC, this series is more than just a study—it's an adventure into the heart of the Book of Acts. Access the study by clicking here. Hear what Bishop McAlilly has to say about this new study.

Table Talk Episode 2: How Laity are Leading the Future Church

Episode two of Table Talk is now live! In this episode, La Rhonda Potts speaks with Brady Banks, Rachel Hagewood, and William Parker about how laity are leading the future church. Check it out via this link! Table Talk is also on Amazon Podcasts! Search "TWK Table Talk: Innovate & Relate" to listen.

Spiritual Life Retreat for 3rd-5th grade children

Registration is now open for Cedar Crest Camp & Retreat Center's "BE Retreat" on March 2-3! This year's theme is "Hiking in the Footsteps of Jesus." They invite 3rd-5th graders, adult leaders, and volunteers to participate in this nurturing experience. Register here.

Will Joe Hansen's real cell phone # please stand up!?

Our District Project Manager Joe Hansen has been using an app for a phone number (270-331-2681) he was using for ministry and therapy purposes. That number is no longer in use! The app was unreliable and Joe lost and didn't receive many texts and calls he's been made aware of (plus others he hasn't learned about). If you have called or texted Joe on that 331 number and you didn't receive a response, please contact him at 270-705-0554. This is his long-time number that he will be keeping. He’s sorry for any and all confusion!

The Vine | 29 Days of Black Methodist History

Join The Vine in commemorating 29 Days of Black Methodist History beginning on February 1. Every day, they will bring you a new piece of Black Methodist history to celebrate, learn from, and consider. From courageous leaders to pivotal events, they hope these daily moments will deepen your understanding and appreciation for the contributions of Black Methodists. To make sure you don't miss a single moment, please register for their daily updates.

Exploring General Conference course offering

General Conference is the top legislative assembly of The United Methodist Church. The course, Exploring General Conference, will help you learn more about the historical roots, legislative processes, and happenings that make the General Conference an important function of The United Methodist Church. This free course is self-guided so you can complete it at your own pace.

Certified Lay Minister Training

Certified Lay Minister (CLM) Training is available online on the Be a Disciple website. If you are a Lay Servant, you can become a CLM. Interested persons can take beginning and advanced courses in a variety of subjects which support their specific contexts. Before taking the training, please contact your pastor.  Learn more.

TWK position opening

Applications for the  Conference Treasurer/Director of Administrative Services position are now being accepted. The deadline to apply is February 26. Learn more and apply.

Support the John G. Corry Scholarship Fund During Black History Month

In honor and recognition of Black History Month, TWK Black Methodists for Church Renewal (BMCR) is asking all churches to take up a special offering for the John G. Corry Scholarship Fund during the month of February. The intent of this scholarship is to provide moral, spiritual, and financial support for United Methodist students who are continuing their educational pursuits beyond the secondary school level. Learn more.

2024 TWK Annual Conference

The third Tennessee-Western Kentucky Annual Conference will be held on June 17-19, 2024, at Murfreesboro First UMC. For up to date information, visit www.twkumc.org/AC2024.

Professional Administrators of the United Methodist Connectional Structure

On April 4-6 in Memphis, TN, the TWK Chapter of the Professional Administrators of the United Methodist Connectional Structure (PAUMCS) is hosting its 2024 Annual Conference. This hybrid meeting will be a time of fellowship and learning. Click here to learn more about conference pricing, schedule, and speakers. Note: the deadline to register is March 1.  (You do not have to be a member of PAUMCS to attend.)

Lay Servant Training on Storytelling and Poetry | Feb. 23-24

Learn how to use storytelling and poetry to enhance sermons, small group formations, and other presentations all while enjoying the beauty and casual setting of Natchez Trace State Park. Laity and clergy are welcome to attend. For more information, contact Susan Davidson by email or phone (731.414.6806).

Check out the information on these church grants

United Methodist Development Fund Grant

The Development Fund for Kentucky and Tennessee is pleased to announce the continuation of the Development Fund grant program in 2024. In past years, this program provided grants to churches and ministries in the legacy Memphis and Tennessee Annual Conferences for a total of over $600,000. These grants are intended to aid TWKUMC churches or affiliated TWKUMC Conference entities with building or renovation projects. Learn more.


TWK Faith & Innovation | New Ministry Resource and Matching Grant

A new tool to help churches discover their community was presented earlier this week by the TWK Faith and Innovation Team. "We believe this is another tool that God is placing in our basket," says Team Chair Vona Wilson. They will offer a matching grant to any TWK church to begin utilization of these tools by March 1. Watch the recorded presentation to learn more. Contact: faith.innovation@twkumc.org.

Have friends who want to stay in the UMC after these disaffiliations?

When a church votes to disaffiliate, some members would rather Stay UMC and want to connect with others in the same situation. With The Vine, people can find an immediate connection with others seeking a home within the United Methodist Church. The Vine is gaining momentum--beautiful things are beginning to happen by the grace of God! Also, people can request that their district office hold their UMC membership temporarily until they find a new church home. (If they are not sure which district to contact, check here - Districts - TWKUMC)

KCC 2024 Prayer in Action Events

Join with leaders across the commonwealth on Tuesdays through March 19 as they put prayer into action on matters that affect us all. Each week experts on different topics before the legislature will join with prayer and devotional leaders as issues and actions are considered. Find more information on the KCC Facebook group or YouTube channel.

Conference and District Events and Deadlines

  • Feb. 17 TWK Youth Event at Lakeshore| Link
  • Feb. 23-24 Lay Servant Training: Storytelling and Poetry | contact Susan Davidson
  • Apr. 23 – May 3, 2024 General Conference | Read more
  • Jun. 17-19, 2024 TWK Annual Conference at Murfreesboro First UMC | Link
What's Happening Beyond the District?

What's Happening in our Local Churches?

  • Feb. 10 - Community Breakfast - 8:00 - 9:30 AM | Kirksey UMC
  • Feb. 10 - Drive-thru Food Pantry - 10:00 AM while supplies last | Kirksey UMC
  • Feb. 11 - G-Men Breakfast for All! - 8:00-9:00 AM | Goshen UMC
  • Feb. 13 – Taco Tuesday Youth Missions Fundraiser – Doors open at 5:30 PM – Dinner starts at 6:00 PM | Murray First UMC Gym | Flyer
  • Feb. 14 – Ash Wednesday Service – Service begins at 6:00 PM | Murray First UMC Sanctuary | Flyer
  • Feb. 14 - Ash Wednesday Service - 6:00 PM | Goshen UMC


To find church addresses, click here.

How to Submit News


DISTRICT: Email submissions to purchasedistrict@twkumc.org by the Thursday prior to the week you would like the information featured.


CONFERENCE: https://twkumc.org/communications/how-to-submit/

The mission of the Purchase District is to discover, equip, connect and send lay and clergy leaders to join Christ's transforming, disciple-making work in and for the world.
Purchase District of The United Methodist Church
270-527-8282 | 2285 Jack Treas Road, Kirksey, KY 42054

Office Hours:
Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. | Friday-Sunday closed

Purchase District

Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference
Your District Staff
Rev. Nancy Johnston Varden
District Superintendent
Email
Penny Story
Administrative Assistant
Email
Rev. Joe Hansen
District Project Manager
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