Upcoming Regional Events in 2024
Upcoming Regional Events in 2024
Clergy Connection Call
On the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, at 12 pm, clergy are invited to stop by for an hour of conversation and idea-sharing with Interim Regional Minister, Rev. Joan Bell-Haynes. For more information and a Zoom link to any of these virtual meetings, contact the Regional Office.
Regional Board Meeting
We will meet from 9 am - 12:30 pm with all of the Board members, Staff, Commission Chairs, Ex-Officio members and other attendees.
We will share lunch together from 12:30 pm - 1:15 pm. After lunch Staff, Commission Chairs, Ex-Officio members and other attendees are free to go.
The Executive Committee and all At-Large board members will meet from 1:15 pm - 3 pm to participate in a discernment process regarding significant decions necessary for the direction and focus of our ministry. We truly need all hands and minds on deck from the Executive Committee and At-Large members during this discernment process. For more information contact the Regional Office.
Thanksgiving Special Offering
The Thanksgiving Offering supports Disciples colleges, universities, and theological institutions. Disciples have a long history of post-secondary and theological education. This offering helps support 15 colleges and universities, plus 7 seminaries and theological programs. Gifts from this offering continue the Disciples tradition of developing church and community leaders. Learn more here.
Giving Tuesday - Launch of Christmas Offering
Giving Tuesday is a global movement that celebrates the spirit of generosity and giving. It underscores the collective power of individuals, communities, and organizations coming together to make a positive impact in the world. You can be part of this year’s Christmas Special Offering, which supports the impactful work of regional ministries in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The Christmas Offering is a critical part of the Christian Church in Georgia because 100 percent of giving from Georgia congregations remains in the Georgia region, supporting regional camps, conferences, retreats, and programs, and playing a critical role in calling and ordaining new ministers. Learn more here.
Christmas Special Offering
The Christmas Offering supports regional ministries in 31 regions across the United States and Canada. The Christmas Offering is a critical part of the Christian Church in Georgia because 100 percent of giving from Georgia congregations remains in the Georgia region, supporting regional camps, conferences, retreats, and programs, and playing a critical role in calling and ordaining new ministers. Learn more here.
Clergy Connection Call
On the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, at 12 pm, clergy are invited to stop by for an hour of conversation and idea-sharing with Interim Regional Minister, Rev. Joan Bell-Haynes. For more information and a Zoom link to any of these virtual meetings, contact the Regional Office.
Clergy Connection Call
On the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, at 12 pm, clergy are invited to stop by for an hour of conversation and idea-sharing with Interim Regional Minister, Rev. Joan Bell-Haynes. For more information and a Zoom link to any of these virtual meetings, contact the Regional Office.
Clergy Connection Call
On the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, at 12 pm, clergy are invited to stop by for an hour of conversation and idea-sharing with Interim Regional Minister, Rev. Joan Bell-Haynes. For more information and a Zoom link to any of these virtual meetings, contact the Regional Office.
2025 Regional Youth Assembly
Join us for an inspiring 2025 Regional Youth Assembly at Epworth by the Sea on St. Simons Island, Georgia, from January 31 to February 2! This assembly is an incredible opportunity for the youth of the Christian Church (DOC) in Georgia to come together for fellowship, worship, and personal growth. Don’t miss out on this chance to deepen your faith and build lasting connections!
Rates & Dates:
All pricing is the same for youth and adults
Early Bird Price: $270 (same for youth & adults) | ends November 1, 2024
Regular Price: $285 (same for adults and youth)
YAC Youth Rate: $200
Registration Close: January 6, 2025
Clergy Connection Call
On the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, at 12 pm, clergy are invited to stop by for an hour of conversation and idea-sharing with Interim Regional Minister, Rev. Joan Bell-Haynes. For more information and a Zoom link to any of these virtual meetings, contact the Regional Office.
Week of Compassion Special Offering
As the relief, refugee, and development mission fund of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Week of Compassion works with partners to alleviate suffering throughout the world. Each year in February, congregations across the United States and Canada collect a Special Offering for Week of Compassion, fueling Week of Compassion's work and witness throughout the whole year. Learn more here.
Georgia Disciples Women's Retreat
The Story Continues. . . .
Hurricane Helene changed our fall retreat plans, but we know you will love this rescheduled event at Little Ocmulgee State Park and Lodge. Stay tuned for more information coming soon.
Clergy Connection Call
On the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, at 12 pm, clergy are invited to stop by for an hour of conversation and idea-sharing with Interim Regional Minister, Rev. Joan Bell-Haynes. For more information and a Zoom link to any of these virtual meetings, contact the Regional Office.
Clergy Connection Call
On the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, at 12 pm, clergy are invited to stop by for an hour of conversation and idea-sharing with Interim Regional Minister, Rev. Joan Bell-Haynes. For more information and a Zoom link to any of these virtual meetings, contact the Regional Office.
Clergy Connection Call
On the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, at 12 pm, clergy are invited to stop by for an hour of conversation and idea-sharing with Interim Regional Minister, Rev. Joan Bell-Haynes. For more information and a Zoom link to any of these virtual meetings, contact the Regional Office.
Clergy Connection Call
On the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, at 12 pm, clergy are invited to stop by for an hour of conversation and idea-sharing with Interim Regional Minister, Rev. Joan Bell-Haynes. For more information and a Zoom link to any of these virtual meetings, contact the Regional Office.
Easter Special Offering
The Easter Offering supports General Ministries of the Church. General ministries serve across the United States and Canada, and around the world. General Ministries also partner in ministry with a variety of far-reaching and unique organizations. Learn more here.
Clergy Connection Call
On the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, at 12 pm, clergy are invited to stop by for an hour of conversation and idea-sharing with Interim Regional Minister, Rev. Joan Bell-Haynes. For more information and a Zoom link to any of these virtual meetings, contact the Regional Office.
Regional Board Meeting - In Person
The Regional Board will meet in the Macon area for an in-person meeting (location TBA).
Clergy Connection Call
On the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, at 12 pm, clergy are invited to stop by for an hour of conversation and idea-sharing with Interim Regional Minister, Rev. Joan Bell-Haynes. For more information and a Zoom link to any of these virtual meetings, contact the Regional Office.
Clergy Connection Call
On the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, at 12 pm, clergy are invited to stop by for an hour of conversation and idea-sharing with Interim Regional Minister, Rev. Joan Bell-Haynes. For more information and a Zoom link to any of these virtual meetings, contact the Regional Office.
Pentecost Special Offering
The Pentecost Offering supports Disciples Church development. Planning, nurturing and sustaining new congregation is part of the Disciples’ vision. This offering supports the specialized ministry of new church development through both regional and general programs. Gifts for this offering are divided equally between the region in which they’re given and the New Church Ministry. Learn more here.
Chi Rho Camp
For youth who have completed grades 6, 7, or 8 by the end of the 2024/2025 academic year.
Chrysalis Camp
For youth who have complete grades 1 or 2 by the end of the 2024/2025 academic year.
Junior Camp
For youth who have completed grades 6, 7, or 8 by the end of the 2024/2025 academic year.
Genesis Camp
For youth who have complete Kindergarten by the end of the 2024/2025 academic year, with a parent, grandparent, or other adult.
CYF Conference
For youth who have complete grades 9, 10, 11, or 12 by the end of the 2024/2025 academic year.
General Assembly of the Christian Church (DOC)
Join with Disciples from across the US and Canada, as well as global and ministry and mission partners, for the General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Memphis, TN. More information to come.
Oasis Day Camp
A day camp on July 15, 16, and 17 for Wilkinson County 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders and giving Georgia Disciples youth the opportunity to serve as Counselors in Training (CITs). CIT youth must have completed grades 9, 10, 11, or 12 by the end of 2024/2025 academic year.
Reconciliation Ministry Special Offering
The Reconciliation Ministry Special Offering is received on the last Sunday in September and the first Sunday in October (World Communion Sunday) in support of ministries and congregations actively developing and implementing Pro-Reconciliation and Anti-Racist programs. These efforts take place through education, camp and conference, and relationship-building in many expressions of our Church. Learn more here.
Regional Board Meeting - In Person
The Regional Board will meet in the metro Atlanta area for an in-person meeting (location TBA).
Thanksgiving Special Offering
The Thanksgiving Offering supports Disciples colleges, universities, and theological institutions. Disciples have a long history of post-secondary and theological education. This offering helps support 15 colleges and universities, plus 7 seminaries and theological programs. Gifts from this offering continue the Disciples tradition of developing church and community leaders. Learn more here.
Christmas Special Offering
The Christmas Offering supports regional ministries in 31 regions across the United States and Canada. The Christmas Offering is a critical part of the Christian Church in Georgia because 100 percent of giving from Georgia congregations remains in the Georgia region, supporting regional camps, conferences, retreats, and programs, and playing a critical role in calling and ordaining new ministers. Learn more here.
Chi Rho Camp
For youth who have completed grades 6, 7, or 8 by the end of the 2025/2026 academic year.
Chrysalis Camp
For youth who have complete grades 1 or 2 by the end of the 2025/2026 academic year.
Junior Camp
For youth who have completed grades 6, 7, or 8 by the end of the 2025/2026 academic year.
Genesis Camp
For youth who have complete Kindergarten by the end of the 2025/2026 academic year, with a parent, grandparent, or other adult.
CYF Conference
For youth who have complete grades 9, 10, 11, or 12 by the end of the 2025/2026 academic year.
Oasis Day Camp
A day camp on July 14, 15, and 16 for Wilkinson County 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders and giving Georgia Disciples youth the opportunity to serve as Counselors in Training (CITs). CIT youth must have completed grades 9, 10, 11, or 12 by the end of 2025/2026 academic year.
Healthy Boundaries 301: Money, Sex, & Power
Healthy Boundaries 101: Fundamentals
August 23, 2024, 1:45-5:30 pm ET (Part 1)
AND August 24, 2023, 8:45 am - 12:30 pm ET (Part 2)
Both sessions required
Last day to register August 18, 2024
An introductory workshop in healthy boundaries with an emphasis on power and vulnerability and including discussions on transference, friendships, dating, and self-care. This is the foundational Healthy Boundaries workshop which is a prerequisite to either Healthy Boundaries 201 or Healthy Boundaries 301.
Overview
The Christian Church (DOC) in Georgia provides Healthy Boundaries* workshops to ordained and commissioned Disciples ministers and those preparing for the ministry in Georgia. Materials and content used are provided by FaithTrust Institute and are widely used by denominations and faith organizations across the U.S. Workshop leaders have been trained and certified by FaithTrust Institute and include: Rev. Erica Geralds, Rev. David Kenley, and Rev. Kathy McDowell.
Please Note
These workshops were presented virtually beginning in fall 2020. Because the response to this format has been very positive, all workshops for 2024 will continue to be presented virtually. Workshops are presented in two half-day ZOOM sessions. Participants must attend BOTH sessions to meet standing requirements of the Christian Church (DOC) in Georgia.
A smart phone, tablet, or computer with a camera is required.
Class participation requires a relatively quiet and private location in your home or office.
You will be contacted by email before the event with further information and materials needed for the workshop.
Because our bi-vocational instructors have cleared their schedules in order to teach, should you need to cancel, no refunds will be given. However, your fee will be credited to a future class. A workshop which does not meet a minimum enrollment will be canceled and refunds will be issued to participants.
Payment Instructions
Registration fee is $75 for all workshops. Please check regional newsletter, clergy emails, and events at www.gadisciples.org for announcement of registration. Contact (478) 743-8649 or office@gadisciples.org with questions about registration or standing.
*Ordained and commissioned clergy in the Christian Church (DOC) in Georgia are required to complete a Healthy Boundaries training every five years, as stated in Policy and Procedures for Response to and Prevention of Clergy Sexual Misconduct. Inactive retired ministers are exempt from this requirement.
Reconciliation Ministry Special Offering
The Reconciliation Ministry Special Offering is received on the last Sunday in September and the first Sunday in October (World Communion Sunday) in support of ministries and congregations actively developing and implementing Pro-Reconciliation and Anti-Racist programs. These efforts take place through education, camp and conference, and relationship-building in many expressions of our Church. Learn more here.
Disciples Women Fall Retreat
DISCIPLES WOMEN FALL RETREAT
September 27-29, 2024
Disciples Women are invited to gather at a beautiful seaside retreat setting for the Fall Retreat, “Crazy Love: Sharing Stories of Jesus.” The event takes place at Epworth By the Sea and will include fellowship, worship, learning, and service.
We are looking forward to sharing stories with friends as well as learning how to share stories of Jesus' love with others. There will be plenty of time for fellowship, bidding at the Silent Auction, hitting the beach, and relaxation. Back by popular demand: Line Dancing!
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Rev. Daniel Claire Brower is a long-time Southerner and a short-time Disciples of Christ but loves both with all her heart. She is currently serving as Interim Minister at Decatur First Christian Church in beautiful Decatur, Georgia. She has previously served at First Christian Church of Lawrenceville, Bethel United Methodist Church, and Long Cane United Methodist Church.
Rev. Brower holds a Master of Divinity from Candler School of Theology and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dramatic Writing from Savannah College of Art and Design. She delights in weaving together storytelling, theology, and spirituality not only from the pulpit but in every aspect of life.
She is married to TW Brower, and together they have three rabbits, one cat, one daughter, and enough love to power the world. Rev. Brower also serves in the Georgia Army National Guard as Chaplain to the 878th EN BN in Augusta, GA.
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Music will be led by Rev. Nancy Litz Oliver, who will be accompanied by Candace Stoffel on piano. Rev. Oliver served most of her 25 years in ministry at Peachtree Christian Church in Atlanta as Minister of Children and Youth. Prior to that, she was a professional entertainer, actress, and director with her husband, Steve Oliver, performing in theatre, television, radio commercials, educational television, and many other venues. In 1983, God called her to serve in a new area – Christ’s church, where her experience in professional drama and her degree in music education gave her the tools to work with children and youth and expand Peachtree’s Youth Program to include youth-led planning retreats, mission trips, and 25 summer tours of C.A.S.T., Peachtree’s Christian Acting/Singing Troupe. Before her retirement in 2012, she transitioned to new responsibilities as Connections Minister, working to promote congregational growth and strengthening congregational ties and relationships.
This year Rev. Oliver celebrates 54 years of marriage to Steve. They have been blessed with two children, and she happily serves as “Mimi” to 5 grandchildren.
Pro-Reconciliation Anti-Racism (PRAR) Training
Join us Saturday, September 14, from 9am-5pm at Brookhaven Christian Church in Atlanta, GA!
Please note this workshop is *in-person,* hosted at Brookhaven Christian Church in Atlanta, GA and will not be provided virtually
Attendance is open to anyone in the Georgia Region (clergy, laity, regional staff or Camp and Conference volunteers) and will fulfill the requirements for ARPR training for Clergy Standing.
Cost to attend: $25
Deadline to Register: August 16
The Anti-Racism/Pro-Reconciliation Ministry of the Region of Virginia is tasked with addressing racial issues and working towards healing. We believe that racism and injustice have no place in our Church or in the Kingdom of God. Our work is a labor of love.
The ARPR workshops are designed to provide a safe space for conversations with issues concerning racism. Our focus is on dismantling systematic racism and working toward reconciliation. Based on the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the Word of God, our workshop allows participants a greater understanding with the hope of “Seeing the Face of God In Each Other."
Healthy Boundaries 101: Fundamentals
Healthy Boundaries 101: Fundamentals
August 23, 2024, 1:45-5:30 pm ET (Part 1)
AND August 24, 2023, 8:45 am - 12:30 pm ET (Part 2)
Both sessions required
Last day to register August 18, 2024
An introductory workshop in healthy boundaries with an emphasis on power and vulnerability and including discussions on transference, friendships, dating, and self-care. This is the foundational Healthy Boundaries workshop which is a prerequisite to either Healthy Boundaries 201 or Healthy Boundaries 301.
Overview
The Christian Church (DOC) in Georgia provides Healthy Boundaries* workshops to ordained and commissioned Disciples ministers and those preparing for the ministry in Georgia. Materials and content used are provided by FaithTrust Institute and are widely used by denominations and faith organizations across the U.S. Workshop leaders have been trained and certified by FaithTrust Institute and include: Rev. Erica Geralds, Rev. David Kenley, and Rev. Kathy McDowell.
Please Note
These workshops were presented virtually beginning in fall 2020. Because the response to this format has been very positive, all workshops for 2024 will continue to be presented virtually. Workshops are presented in two half-day ZOOM sessions. Participants must attend BOTH sessions to meet standing requirements of the Christian Church (DOC) in Georgia.
A smart phone, tablet, or computer with a camera is required.
Class participation requires a relatively quiet and private location in your home or office.
You will be contacted by email before the event with further information and materials needed for the workshop.
Because our bi-vocational instructors have cleared their schedules in order to teach, should you need to cancel, no refunds will be given. However, your fee will be credited to a future class. A workshop which does not meet a minimum enrollment will be canceled and refunds will be issued to participants.
Payment Instructions
Registration fee is $75 for all workshops. Please check regional newsletter, clergy emails, and events at www.gadisciples.org for announcement of registration. Contact (478) 743-8649 or office@gadisciples.org with questions about registration or standing.
*Ordained and commissioned clergy in the Christian Church (DOC) in Georgia are required to complete a Healthy Boundaries training every five years, as stated in Policy and Procedures for Response to and Prevention of Clergy Sexual Misconduct. Inactive retired ministers are exempt from this requirement.
YADA Retreat
Young Adults who are one year post-high school through age 30 are invited to gather at Camp Christian for a retreat. Their gathering will be centered around the importance of fellowship in their faith journey, with a focus on Hebrews 10:24-24:
24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
YAC Retreat
Youth Activities Council of the Christian Church in Georgia will gather at Camp Christian for a planning retreat.
Oasis Day Camp
A day camp on July 16, 17, and 18 for Wilkinson County 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders and giving Georgia Disciples youth the opportunity to serve as Counselors in Training (CITs). CIT youth must have completed grades 9, 10, 11, or 12 by the end of 2023/2024 academic year. Learn more here.
CYF Conference
For youth who have complete grades 9, 10, 11, or 12 by the end of the 2023/2024 academic year. Learn more and register here.
Genesis Camp
For youth who have complete Kindergarten by the end of the 2023/2024 academic year, with a parent, grandparent, or other adult. Learn more and register here.
Chrysalis Camp
For youth who have complete grades 1 or 2 by the end of the 2023/2024 academic year. Learn more and register here.
Junior Camp
For youth who have completed grades 6, 7, or 8 by the end of the 2023/2024 academic year. Learn more and register here.
Chi Rho Camp
For youth who have completed grades 6, 7, or 8 by the end of the 2023/2024 academic year. Learn more and register here.
Pentecost Special Offering
The Pentecost Offering supports Disciples Church development. Planning, nurturing and sustaining new congregation is part of the Disciples’ vision. This offering supports the specialized ministry of new church development through both regional and general programs. Gifts for this offering are divided equally between the region in which they’re given and the New Church Ministry. Learn more here.
Regional Assembly
The Christian Church (DOC) in Georgia meets for its 171st Regional Assembly.
Regional Youth Assembly
Disciples youth and their friends in grades 6-12 are invited to the annual Regional Youth Assembly at Epworth By the Sea, St. Simons, GA.
Christmas Offering
The Christmas Offering supports regional ministries. In 31 regions across the United States and Canada, ministers are nurtured and congregations are provided opportunities for work and worship. Often recognized for the ministries of camps and conferences, regions also play a critical role in the preparation and authorization of ministerial ordination. Both are key to church leadership and development. Regions partner with congregations to support the work required to call a new minister.
Christmas Offering
The Christmas Offering supports regional ministries. In 31 regions across the United States and Canada, ministers are nurtured and congregations are provided opportunities for work and worship. Learn more here.
Thanksgiving Offering (Copy)
The Thanksgiving Offering supports Disciples colleges, universities and theological institutions. Disciples have a long history of post-secondary and theological education. This offering provides a direct connection to 15 colleges and universities, 7 seminaries and theological programs. Gifts from this offering continue the Disciples tradition of developing leaders for our communities and the Church. See a list of the colleges, universities, seminaries, foundations and divinity houses.
Thanksgiving Offering
The Thanksgiving Offering supports Disciples colleges, universities and theological institutions. Disciples have a long history of post-secondary and theological education. This offering provides a direct connection to 15 colleges and universities, 7 seminaries and theological programs. Gifts from this offering continue the Disciples tradition of developing leaders for our communities and the Church. See a list of the colleges, universities, seminaries, foundations and divinity houses.
Healthy Boundaries 101
An introductory workshop in healthy boundaries with an emphasis on power and vulnerability and including discussions on transference, friendships, dating, and self-care. This is the foundational Healthy Boundaries workshop which is a prerequisite to either Healthy Boundaries 201 or Healthy Boundaries 301. Learn more and register here.
Upgrade Thursdays — Alpha: A Tool for Conversations About Faith
In this Upgrade Thursday virtual event, Michelle Tepper, Florida Network Director for Alpha USA, presents a tool for your church that creates space for judgment-free conversations about the Christian faith. Learn more about Upgrade Thursdays here.
Upgrade Thursdays — Drink of One Spirit: Living Our Truths in Community
Rev. Monique Crain Spells, Director of Christian Education/Faith Formation from Disciples Home Missions, will explore the characteristics of the Spirit and how we encounter God in this session of Upgrade Thursdays. Learn more about Upgrade Thursdays here.
Regional Elders Retreat: Rediscovering the Value, Purpose, and Rewards of the Local Church in a Post-Pandemic World
The Georgia Regional Elders are coming together to education, encourage, and inspire local church elders and deacons in a one-day workshop at Camp Christian. The needs, concerns, commitments, and contributions of congregations and our communities shifted during the pandemic. This work will help elders and deacons to reset. Learn more and register here.
Reconciliation Offering
The Reconciliation Ministry receives a special offering in the fall, usually coinciding with World Communion Sunday. The resources received in this Annual Fund helps provide grants supporting pro-reconciliation and anti-racism programs and initiatives of the Reconciliation Ministry. Learn more here.
Upgrade Thursdays — How Does Your Garden Grow? Georgia Disciples Tell Their Stories
Gardens are thriving at Georgia Disciples churches and congregations have a wide range of experiences about “How does your garden grow?” In this Upgrade Thursdays session, you will hear stories from lead gardeners from Cherry Log CC, New Hope CC, Chestnut Ridge CC, Amplify CC, and Ray of Hope CC. Learn more about Upgrade Thursdays here.
Reconciliation Offering
The Reconciliation Ministry receives a special offering in the fall, usually coinciding with World Communion Sunday. The resources received in this Annual Fund helps provide grants supporting pro-reconciliation and anti-racism programs and initiatives of the Reconciliation Ministry. Learn more here.
Georgia Disciples Women Fall Retreat
Mark your calendars for the Georgia Disciples Women Fall retreat to be held at Epworth by the Sea, St. Simons, GA. Learn more and register here.
Upgrade Thursdays — Disciples Home Missions: A Ready Resource for Your Church
Rev. Chris Dorsey, President and CEO of Disciples Home Missions, will bring updated information to Upgrade Thursdays participants about resources available through Disciples Home Missions. Learn more about Upgrade Thursdays here.
Clergy Connect: Retired Clergy
Rev. Dr. Denise Bell will convene one-hour Zoom meetings on selected Thursdays from 7-8 pm with various clergy groups to connect and encourage during 2023. All retired clergy welcome.