From Montreat's Blog--update on two conferences!

Spring Greetings from Montreat!

Important Information to Use and Share

Spring is finally here, and along with thefirst blooms and balmy breezes of the season come special spring programs at Montreat Conference Center that are particularly designed to empower you and the pastors with whom you are in ministry! Please forward this email, share with the pastors in your presbytery, and encourage all who might benefit to take advantage of these timely learning opportunities! The time to register is now!

For more information and registration, go to    http://www.montreat.org/current/

Equipping Your Pastors for Ministry

The Solo Pastor to Multi Staff Seminar
May 8-13, 2011
Can you identify pastors in your presbytery who started out serving as solo pastors, but were then called to ministry in large churches? This transition, which is often difficult, leads pastors to ask hard questions: What do I focus on? What should I do differently? Why are there different expectations? Why do I always feel like I'm “stepping on people’s toes?” This seminar will help those pastors discern their gifts and skills and successfully weave them into the ministry of their new position. This seminar is also helpful for those who are considering this migration. Leaders are Harris Schultz and Deborah Fortel. If you know pastors who might gain fresh insight and new tools for ministry by attending this seminar, please urge them to register online today!

 The Hope in Conflict Seminar
May 8-13, 2011

Several years ago, when we had some conflicts with staff at Montreat (yes, it happens here, too), one of our senior staff members helped us define the conflict as “a difference of opinion about something that really matters.” What a hopeful thing! No matter which side of the fence you're on, it matters! Believe it or not, the best part of any conflict is the people. They clearly care. They're not apathetic. They are engaged. So, how do our congregations in conflict work through that conflict and find the hope? This is an opportunity for pastors to engage in conversation and learn from David Sawyer, author of the book, Hope In Conflict, available at Montreat Books and Gifts. Reserve your place at this timely event, and please share it with others who might benefit. Online registration is still available.