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On February 3-4, many jubilant United Methodists demonstrated a willingness and commitment to expand their spiritual territory as they walked through the doors of St. John’s United Methodist Church, Greenwood, MS. Members of other denominations joined the company of believers in seeking to improve their gifts as lay speakers in stewardship, worship, and Bible study. Lay persons seeking to prepare themselves for leadership were offered a course in Adult Basic Lay Speaking. The youth basic lay speaking course was offered to nine youth registrants who were given an opportunity to recognize their gifts and talents in a class setting. As a refresher, United Methodism 101 was offered for those who are required to take an advanced refresher course every three years, as well as other advanced coursework.
To set the tone for the Lay Speaking School experience, Rev. Timothy Thompson, assistant to the Bishop, energized the attendees as his exuberant voice rang out emphatically throughout the walls of the family worship center. His message to the attendees was that the duties of Lay Speakers should not be taken lightly, for our response to the call as lay speakers should be based on the premise of the following five keys:
- To know God and to know that God is real
- Be a student of God’s word
- Be filled and yearn for the Holy Ghost
- Be doers of the same word you preach to others
- Hold your course and produce fruit
Our superintendent, Rev. Mattie Gipson, and her husband Rev. Frank Gipson were exceptional hosts for the prepared meals. Rev. Mattie Gipson prepared a vegetable soup that was second to none other. Her cooking gift was displayed as well as her leadership skills. Rev. Rusty Keen, Part-Time District Staff person, did an outstanding job organizing and facilitating the Lay Speaking School.
Now those of you who have been procrastinating about sharing your spiritual gifts and have not decided to register for the next Lay Speaking School, I suggest that you ask God to give you the unction of His Holy Spirit and guide you (if it is His Will) to register for the next Lay Speaking School in your area.
The instructors were: Rev. Lisa Garvin, Rev. Mary Hutson, Rev. Kordell Sims, Rev. Tom Potter, and Rev. Maxine Bolden. For more information, you may contact Rev. Rusty Keen at 662-825-1961 or
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