2009 School of Christian Mission

The school of Christian Mission sponsored by the United Methodist Women of the SWTC was held July 16 – 19, 2009 at Mount Wesley in Kerrville. The attendance made up of women, men and children totaled 248. There were 216 adults, 8 teens and 24 children who attended separate classes especially for their age groups.

The 2009 theme was:”Together At The Table”. As Christians, we are reminded of the significance of the table in Jesus’ life and ministry. All along his journey, Jesus shared meals in the home of friends. In the temple, he overturned the tables of injustice. On the eve of his death, around the table with his disciples, he broke bread and set forth a means of grace for all who believed.

The theme was reinforced through the studies of The Beauty and Courage of Sudan: Why a Dream of peace is Possible led by BeverlyDeerhake, Wanda Holcombe, andNancy Maples; Native American Survival study led by Rev. Arlene Turner; and Food & Faith led by Rev. Sarah Currie, Ralph Thompson, and Rhonda Troll. Even though for most of the past twenty years the country of Sudan has been plagued with severe drought, and the wars have been unremitting for nearly all of its history, the core of Sudan is its beauty. The study of Food & Faith showed how our faith is nurtured, strengthened, and enhanced by food and all the ways food touches our lives. And the purpose of the Native American study searched for appropriate ways for United Methodist to be engaged in mission with Native Americans.

The children and youth studies on Sudan were unusually good this year and were led by Jacque Albrecht and Katherine Sweet with aids, Maudi Van Winkle and Samantha Schneider. The youth studied Food & Faith under the leadership of Terry Schoenert and Susan Southard. The musical team of Leslie Albrecht and Vikki Schwarz made a large impact on the group after attending regional school.

In addition, Ralph Thompson did an exceptional job with his four computer classes which were well attended. The other activities offered were swimming and video previews plus a silent auction for mission.

Health kits were solicited at the school in support of the Sudan study and over 1,400 kits were collected along with an offering of $2,387.00. The kits were delivered to Baldwin, LA by Schatzie Norris, UMW District President of Kerrville and also one of the study leaders.

The 2010 School of Christian Mission in Kerrville is scheduled for July 15 – 18. The studies will be For the Love of God: John’s Letters, Mission & Evangelism and the second part of the study on Sudan.