School of Christian Mission - July 24-27, 2008

NEW! 2008 School of Christian Mission - Registration Brochure
[WORD] [PDF]
Registration Deadline: June 30, 2008

NEW! 2008 Teen Women Mission Event Registration Form [PDF]
The Teen Women Mission Event will be Saturday, July 26th at the School of Christian Mission.
Registration Deadline: June 30, 2008

NEW! Frequently Asked Questions - School of Christian Mission FAQ Sheet [PDF]
Includes directions to Greensboro College, map of the school, and
other important information for students

Each year, United Methodist Women gather at locations all over the United States to learn more about missions and about being in mission. In a United Methodist News Service commentary...Schools of Christian Mission were described as some of the very best lay faith education being offered in The United Methodist Church. In our Western North Carolina Conference School of Christian Mission, three courses of study are offered, along with a variety of other opportunities. Return to this site for updates...including information about our studies, our study leaders, and more!

2008 School of Christian Mission Theme: Living the Sacred “God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good’’ concludes the unfolding story of God’s creation of the earth and all its living creatures as revealed in Genesis, Chapter 1. How are we as God’s people to understand the story in the midst of human acts of racism, violence, and earthly destruction? Native American traditions teach us that creation includes all that comes from God and all that comes from the heart and mind of God is sacred. Native traditions call on its people to value life as God values life. To be a created people is to be relationally connected to all people everywhere, as well as to all God has created. To believe in Jesus is to love as God loved and live as Christ lived, valuing all creation. To believe in Jesus is to live in the way of Christ, freeing the oppressed, healing the sick and wounded, clothing the naked, welcoming all. To believe in Jesus is to follow the sacred commandment to love as God loved. To believe in Jesus is to embrace the sacredness of life. While God has given humanity the gift of life and relationship, too often we have created barriers between people and lands. We have acted in ways that violate the sacredness of life and do not make for peace. As followers of Christ, as Christians in community, let us deepen our understanding of what it means to live in sacred harmony. Then, let us walk together in ways that lead to peace and reconciliation. “The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it” (Psalm 24:vs1)
Mission Studies
Spiritual Growth Study	General Issue Study	Geographic Study
*I Believe in Jesus*	Giving Our Hearts Away: Native American Survival	*Israel / Palestine*
The study deals with four key components, namely (a) the gift of faith in Jesus Christ, b) the meaning of faith in Jesus, (c) whose faith counts and (d) faith in Jesus in a post-modern world. The Wesleyan Quadrilateral provides us a means for our prayerful consideration of who Jesus is for us and the world. The witness of Jesus, as someone who loved all persons, must be the model of our discipleship.	The purposes of this study are to learn about the inter-relatedness between the indigenous peoples and their land, to identify selected key issues affecting the Native Americans in the United States and to examine the root causes of these issues, to understand and appreciate the “Give Away” culture of the Native Americans in the areas of spirituality, ecology, language, story-telling, food, and to lead the participants to act as responsible US citizens and Christians in accompaniment and solidarity with Native Americans.	The mission study Israel/Palestine will help participants learn about the history and complexities of relationships between Israel and Palestine. Participants will explore and understand the concepts of security and freedom that dominate the lives of these peoples. This study will challenge us to move through tolerance and respect to achieve a just peace.
Study Leader: Rev. Dr. James Howell, Charlotte, NC	Study Leaders: Mrs. Nancy Berry, Charlotte, NC Dr. William Berry, Charlotte, NC Mrs. Dixie Liggett, Asheville, NC Mr. Gary Locklear, Pembroke, NC Ms. Daphine Strickland, Jamestown, NC Rev. Donna Strickland-Smith, Salisbury, NC	Study Leaders: Rev. Dr. Tom Sigmon and Mrs. Lavon Sigmon, Charlotte, NC Rev. Joe Tarpley, Shelby, NC
One-Day Overview Leaders: Ms. Ann Aldridge, Morganton, NC Ms. Linda Baity, Yadkinville, NC	One-Day Overview Leaders: Ms. Karen Wilkerson, Newton, NC Ms. Linda Young, Catawba, NC
Study Resources: (Available from Mission Resource Center) I Believe in Jesus, by Bishop Minerva G. Carcano renews minds and hearts to the gift of faith in Jesus Christ and the meaning of faith; answers questions relating to exercising faith in Jesus in today's world. Study guide by Glory Dharmaraj. *I'm Living the Faith - Youth Spiritual Growth Study Text*, by Jay Godfrey and Alison Lutz challenges youth to consider how their faith in Jesus informs how they engage their world by reflecting on their own faith journey, their Wesleyan heritage, and the diverse global Christian community. Study guide included.	Study Resources: (Available from Mission Resource Center) Giving Our Hearts Away: Native American Survival, by Thom White Wolf Fassett with Study Guide by Brenda Connelly. Told from Native American perspective, this mission study provides historical narrative of America's native people; past issues, survival, ongoing challenges Creator Sang a Welcoming Song: Native America for Children - Leader's Guide by Ray Buckley. Through this four-study session, children will learn something of Native histories and cultures and discover the "Welcoming Song" that the Creator sings for them and for all God's children. Walking in These White Man Shoes: Youth Explore Native America - Leader's Guide by Ray Buckley. In this four-session study, youth are invited to walk with Native people as they hear the story of where Native people have walked, where they are walking now, and how they walk with God. North American Indian Reference Map - This informative and illustrative map displays the history and evolution of Native Americans at the time of the first European contact; the story, history, leaders, innovations and culture of North American Indians. Published by National Geographic. Stories from the Circle of Life - DVD - Narratives of Native Americans explore faith journeys, integration of culture into faith and life, issues confronting communities historically and today, and lessons for all God's people. Includes audiobook of Giving Our Hearts Away by Thom Fassett. *Response Magazine - April 2008 Issue -* The April 2008 issue of Response has a variety of articles related to the Native American mission study.	Study Resources: (Available from Mission Resource Center) Israel and Palestine, by Steve Goldstein with Study Guide by Sandra Olewine. This study will help the participants to learn about the history and complexities of relationships between Israel and Palestine. We will explore and understand the concepts of security and freedom that dominate the lives of these peoples. 2008 Update to be written by Sandra Olewine (Not yet available)
þ Link to I Believe in Jesus Website	þ Link to Native American Website	þ Link to Israel/Palestine Website
		From Women's Division Website: Additional Information for Israel/Palestine 2007-2008 Mission Study [PDF]
The Spiritual Growth Study will be offered for everyone in the Chapel. Resident and Non-Resident students may also choose one of the other courses for more intensive study. One-Day Overview Students will receive overviews (1 1/2 hours each) of both the Spiritual Growth Study (I Believe in Jesus) and the General Issue Study (Giving Our Hearts Away: Native American Survival).
Teen Women Event Leader: Ms. Sherry Sink, High Point, NC
Workshop for Leaders of Children: Ms. Sandy Hieronymus, Charlotte, NC
Music Leaders: Patricia Gilbert, Salisbury, NC and Donna Cooke, Winston-Salem, NC Media & Technical Specialists: Linda Reep, Sharon Quate, and Lynne Gilbert

Teen Women Mission Event

Each One Bring One

Date: Saturday, July 26, 2008
Cost: $15.00 (Includes Lunch)
Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm
Leaders: Ms. Sherry Sink

Join us for a day of activities, study, learning opportunities, and FUN as we explore the mission study...Walking in These White Man Shoes: Youth Explore Native America. Our mission study is a story of Native people: where we have been, where we are now, and where we hope to be. It is a story of where we have walked and where we are walking now. It is also a story of how we walk with God. You are invited. Come walk with us.

It will be a special opportunity to grow in mission...begin now to invite teen women from your church to be a part of the Teen Women Event at the School of Christian Mission!

Teen women who are registered for the entire school may participate in the Teen Women Event on Saturday at no extra charge.

NEW! 2008 Teen Women Event Registration Form [PDF]

Advance registration is required, and registrations must be received by June 30, 2008.

Have you invited a young woman, or more than one, to the School of Christian Mission? What if your unit sent "ONE" (or more than one!) young woman to the participate in the whole School of Christian Mission?

The entire school will be an opportunity for young women to grow in mission. What an opportunity for you to share United Methodist Women!

Each one brings one...What an awesome idea!

2008 Youth Participation Covenant & Consent Forms
NEW! [WORD] [PDF]

Young Women at the 2006 School of Christian Mission

Hands On Mission Opportunity

Our Hands-On Mission Opportunity for the 2008 School of Christian Mission will be:

UMCOR Health Kits

UMCOR has expressed an urgent need for Health Kits. Bring your completed health kits to the School of Christian Mission. Encourage others in your local unit and congregation to participate...even if they cannot attend the School of Christian Mission. We will deliver the health kits to our conference Mission Response Center for shipment to the UMCOR Sager Brown Depot.

Health kits provide basic necessities to people who have been forced to leave their homes because of human conflict or natural disaster. Health kits are also used as learning tools in personal hygiene, literacy, nutrition and cooking classes. When people gain the knowledge and materials to maintain personal hygiene, their overall health improves.

The details for the preparation of a health kit are shown below. Please follow the directions exactly. Include all items; do not add items that are not on the list. Extra gifts, though given with the best of intentions, render a kit unusable and must be removed. Note: All items must be new!

There has been a change to the Health Kit list: UMCOR Sager Brown is now purchasing toothpaste in bulk to be added to health kits before shipping to ensure that the product does not expire before they are sent.

UMCOR Health Kit
Estimated Value: $12.00 per kit

1 hand towel (15" x 25" up to 17" x 27"no kitchen towels)
1 washcloth
1 comb (large and sturdy, not pocket-sized)
1 metal nail file or fingernail clippers (no emery boards or toenail clippers)
1 bath-size bar of soap (3 oz. and up)
1 toothbrush (single brushes only, in original wrapper-no child size brushes)
6 adhesive plastic strip sterile bandages

Place these items inside a sealed one-gallon plastic bag. In a separate envelope, please bring a check written to UMCOR Sager Brown for at least $2.00 for each kit to help with the costs of buying one tube of toothpaste, processing and shipping kits around the world. If you are bringing multiple kits, it is fine to just write one check in an amount sufficient to cover all of your kit.

f your whole unit is collecting the kits, it will be okay to collect the money and put it all in one envelope to be turned in when you drop off your kits at the School of Christian Mission. Please do not put money envelope in your UMCOR bag. If at all possible, please have kits in a box that can be handled by our women and the total number of kits listed on the side of the box. We are trying to make it as easy as possible to collect, count and transport, our Health Kits.

Important: Please do not include any religious, political or patriotic notes or emblems in any kit.

Participating in this Hands-On Mission Opportunity will help your local unit to meet Mission Today criteria #23.

2008 Information Flyer - School of Christian Mission Hands On Mission Opportunity (PDF)

Have a question? Need more information?

Registration Information & Logo

Registration Information
Downloadable forms, etc.

2008 Logo Graphic
Living the Sacred

NEW! Registration Brochure
[WORD] [PDF]
Registrations accepted May 1, 2008 thru June 30, 2008

Youth Participation Covenant & Consent Forms
NEW! [WORD] [PDF]
Required for all Youth registrations

NEW! Teen Women Event - Registration Brochure [PDF]

NEW! Conference Gram - School of Christian Issue [PDF]

NEW! Frequently Asked Questions - School of Christian Mission FAQ Sheet [PDF]

What's the Weather in Greensboro?

Map of Greensboro College

For more information

Related Website: Greensboro College

Related Website: City of Greensboro

Click on small images to see larger view

Logo - Color - Living the Sacred (JPG)
Logo - Greyscale - Living the Sacred (JPG)
Logos page with Color & Greyscale [PDF]

Our 2008 Living the Sacred logo was designed and created by Sara Williams and Lynne Gilbert.

Living the Sacred - Logo Interpretation (written by Sara Williams): The base of the logo is the medicine wheel, which is representative of Native American Spirituality. The outer circle represents the circle of life, forever evolving. The colors are indicative of life’s journey: success, trouble, peace, and happiness.

At the center of the wheel is the cross of Christ. No matter which direction one travels, north, south, east or west, in the midst of one’s life is Christ/God.

The inner circle connects the hearts of all humankind. All hearts are turned toward the cross. When focused on Christ/God, differences are seen as blessings and all life is valued.

Native American traditions teach us that creation includes all that comes from God and all that comes from the heart and mind of God is sacred.

Resources & Links for 2008 Mission Studies

I Believe in Jesus
Israel and Palestine
Giving Our Hearts Away: Native American Survival

Mission Resource Center Toll Free: 1-800-305-9857

Place your order online! Mission Resource Center E-Store

Mission Study texts and resources will be available at all conference events

Meet Our Study Leaders

I Believe In Jesus

Rev. Dr. James Howell

Rev. Dr. James Howell, Charlotte, NC - James has been the senior pastor of Myers Park United Methodist Church in Charlotte since 2003. He is the author of twelve books, including “Yours Are the Hands of Christ”, “Conversations With St. Frances” and “The Beatitudes for Today.” James is married to Lisa, and they have three children (Sarah, Grace and Noah). James is also an adjunct professor of preaching at Duke Divinity School. James is a repeat study leader for the School of Christian Mission, having led our study of Psalms.

Giving Our Hearts Away: Native American Survival


Nancy & William Berry	Dixie Liggett	Gary Locklear	Daphine Strickland	Rev. Donna Strickland-Smith

Nancy and William Berry, Charlotte, NC - Nancy and Bill are the empty—nest parents of four children and are the grandparents of five. Nancy is a graduate of Radford College and is now a retired elementary school teacher. She has been a longtime volunteer in an Alzheimer’s respite care program. She is past president of Sharon UMW and is active in Church Women United. She teaches children’s Sunday School and leads the Congregational Care work area at church. Bill is a graduate of Virginia Tech. He served in the U. S. Army, worked as an engineer and is now professor of management at Queens University of Charlotte. He is chair of the Pastor Parish Relations Committee at Sharon UMC and frequently teaches his adult Sunday School class. They are lifetime lovers of the outdoors. They became acquainted with the situation of Native Americans through their daughter, Bethany, who is a nurse-midwife for the Indian Health Service currently serving the Oglala Sioux at Pin Ridge, South Dakota.

Dixie Liggett, Asheville, NC - Dixie has served the Women of Western North Carolina Conference United Methodist Women as a District and Conference officer and is currently completing a four year term as a member of the Southeastern Jurisdiction Core Planning Group. She is a retreat leader for Resurrection Women retreat. She has taught several times in the WNCC Conference School of Christian Mission. She designed a workshop entitled “How to Do a Mission Study” and has presented it nine times at the school. Dixie is a graduate of St. Luke’s Hospital School of Nursing and of Western North Carolina University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She is recently retired as a registered nurse. Dixie has been married for 42 years to Dr. Larry Liggett, a retired educator. They have two grown children.

Gary Locklear, Pembroke, NC - Gary has been married to Panthia Locklear for 37 years. they have three children, Nakesha; Garrick; Autumn, a daughter-in-law, Kimberly, son-in law, Chad, two grand sons and a grand daughter. He was educated in Robeson County North Carolina and graduated from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke with a Bachelor of Science degree. Gary taught in the Public Schools of Robeson County for three years, he spent the next twenty seven years in private industry in manufacturing management, human resources and training and development. He took early retirement from that post in 2000. Six months later he accepted a three year assignment as a 10-10-10 Missionary working with Native American Ministries in the North Carolina Conference. Since then Gary has been commissioned a Church & Community Worker and a Home Missioner. His work remains in the Native American Congregations of the North Carolina Conference with the Rockingham District Native American Cooperative Ministry. Gary has been a member of the same United Methodist Church all of his life where he has served in almost every leadership role. Gary was the North Carolina Conference lay recipient of the Harry Denman Award in 2006. Gary was elected to go to General Conference in 2004 and 2008. He has a passion for the small church and its preservation.

Daphine Strickland, Jamestown, NC - Daphine is a Native American of the Lumbee/Tuscarora tribe. She was born in Robeson County and lives in the Greensboro area with her husband Daniel. They have four children and three grandchildren. A graduate of Guilford College, Daphine possesses a bachelor’s degree in Women’s Studies and Justice & Policy, with a concentration in African-American studies. She served as a 10-10-10 Missionary for the General Board of Global Ministries 2001-2003. She is an active member of the Triad Native American United Methodist Church. She also chairs the Southeastern Regional Native American Caucus and serves on several Conference, Jurisdictional and National committees.

Rev. Donna Strickland-Smith, Salisbury, NC - Donna is a second career pastor. She received her Master of Divinity from Duke Divinity School in 1999 and was ordained Elder in 2002 in the Western North Carolina Conference. She is the first Native American (female) Elder in the Conference. Donna's undergraduate degree is in Music Education—Voice and she served as a church music director for a number of years as well as an elementary music teacher in the Greensboro/Guilford School system. She recently completed a twelve year term on the board of the United Methodist Publishing House. Her family includes her husband of 21 years, Kelly and a son Daniel, who is seven years old. She is in the process of recording a vocal CD, which has been a desire of hers for many years.

Israel / Palestine

Rev. Dr. Tom Sigmon
& LaVon Sigmon

Rev. Joe Tarpley

Rev. Dr. Tom & Mrs. LaVon Sigmon, Charlotte, NC - Tom is a graduate of Lenoir Rhyne College, Duke Divinity School (MDiv), and Drew University (DMin). He retired in 2005 after serving appointments across the Western North Carolina Conference for over forty years, including as District Superintendent for the Gastonia District, and as Conference Director of Connectional Ministries. As a pastor, Tom has always worked actively with United Methodist Women. He is trained as an Interim Minister and has led many Consecration Stewardship events for local churches. He also serves as a consultant in Discipleship Ministries with a focus on Stewardship Education. LaVon has been active at all levels of United Methodist Women with the local, district, and conference. She serves her church as a Stephen Minister and as a regular hospital visitor. Together LaVon and Tom have led Marriage Enrichment Events. In retirement, they enjoy spending time at their mountain home at Lake Junaluska, traveling, and spending time with their grandchildren. We welcome Tom and LaVon as repeat study leaders.

Rev. Joe Tarpley, Shelby, NC - Rev. Tarpley is pastor at Sharon UMC in Shelby. He received his undergraduate degree from Kennesaw State University and his Master’s of Divinity (MDIV) from Emory University in Atlanta, GA in 1999. Joe was ordained elder in the Western North Carolina Conference in 2004. Joe is involved in mission and ministry in many different ways. He is married to the Rev. Veranita Alvord and they have two children. Joe is a repeat study leader for Israel / Palestine.

One Day Overview Classes
(Overview students will get a 1 1/2 hour overview of both
I Believe in Jesus, and Giving Our Hearts Away: Native American Survival)


Ann Aldridge I Believe in Jesus	Linda Baity I Believe in Jesus	Karen Wilkerson Giving Our Hearts Away	Linda Young Giving Our Hearts Away

Ann Aldridge, Morganton, NC - Ann is a life-long United Methodist, and member of Oak Hill United Methodist Church. She is a graduate of Appalachian State University and the University of Tennessee. She is retired from the North Carolina School for the Deaf where she worked as a classroom teacher, educational director, principal of elementary, middle and high schools as well as testing coordinator and educational evaluator. She is currently secretary for the North Carolina School for the Deaf Foundation. Ann has served as an adjunct instructor for Appalachian State University, Lenoir-Rhyne College, and Western Piedmont Community College. Ann has served United Methodist Women at the local and district levels and is currently the conference UMW secretary. She is vice-chair of the Brooks- Howell Home Board of Directors, a lay delegate to both Annual Conference and Southeast Jurisdictional Conference. Ann is married to Wade and has two sons. She loves to travel and is an avid reader.

Linda Baity, Yadkinville, NC - Linda is the Mission Coordinator for Membership, Nurture and Outreach for the WNCC-UMW. She is past president of the North Wilkesboro District. Linda organized one of the first teen circles of UMW in this conference and continues to sponsor this group of young women at Yadkinville United Methodist Church. Linda is employed as an insurance customer service agent with W.N. Ireland Insurance Agency. She is married to Kenneth and they have two sons and four grandchildren.

Karen Wilkerson, Newton, NC - Karen is currently serving her fourth year as Communications Coordinator for the WNCC-UMW and has also served as Mission Coordinator for Education and Interpretation. She attends Highland United Methodist Church in Hickory where she sings in the Chancel Choir and the Highland Praise Team. She is the leader of an inspirational movement group called the “Rays of Praise”. She is also president of the United Methodist Women at Highland. Karen is employed full time as a bookkeeper at K&M Tire Company in Hickory. She and her husband Hugh have two daughters and four grandchildren. In her spare time, Karen enjoys singing alto with “Friends of Christ”, a southern gospel choir.

Linda Young, Catawba, NC - Linda was born and educated in Iredell County, North Carolina. She is a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church where she serves as the Nurture and Care chairperson and is a member of the Spiritual Lights Gospel Choir. She has co chaired the capital campaign and taught Sunday School. Linda is a certified Lay Speaker and serves on the Conference Committee on Finance and Administration. She has served United Methodist Women on the local, district and conference levels. She is a past Statesville District President and currently serves as conference Coordinator for Social Action. Linda is married to Ricky Young, Sr. and they have one son and one grandson, Isley, who is the delight of her life. Linda enjoys reading, singing, walking, cooking, swimming and tennis.

Workshop for Leaders of Children

Sandy Hieronymus

Sandy Hieronymus, Charlotte, NC - Sandy is a native of Kentucky and a life-long Methodist. For over twenty years, Sandy has been a Pre-K teacher at a United Methodist church. She is a certified lay speaker. She has held various offices in the United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women on the local, district and conference levels. Before taking her current position as the WNCC UMW Vice President, Sandy served four years as the Charlotte District Lay Leader and four years as the Charlotte District UMW President. She currently serves on the Conference Ministry Advisory Council and Aldersgate Retirement Community Board of Advisors. She was elected as a delegate to the 2008 General Conference and the 2008 Southeast Jurisdictional Conference. Sandy enjoys teaching all ages. In her free time, she likes reading, arts and crafts, and being a “beach bum”. She believes the greatest gift we can give our children is to give them God. She and her husband, Gerry, have three grown sons.

Teen Women Mission Event

Sherry Sink

Sherry Sink, High Point, NC - Sherry is the current Mission Coordinator for Education and Interpretation for the WNCC-UMW. Sherry has been actively involved with youth ministry. Her energy and spirit are contagious. Sherry coordinates the “Hands On Mission” projects at Conference UMW events. She creatively inspires the women of this conference to make these projects overwhelmingly successful. Sherry attended the National Seminar in Nashville, Tennessee sponsored by United Methodist Women and is coordinating our conference initiative “For Christ’s Sake, Turn the World Upside down.”

Our Music Leaders

Donna Cooke, Winston-Salem, NC - Our pianist for the weekend is currently the District Educator for the Winston-Salem District for the United Methodist Church. Prior to accepting this position, Donna served Central United Methodist Church in Mt. Airy, for 28 years as Director of Music Ministries where she directed children’s choirs, youth girls ensembles, children’s chimes, adult and youth handbell choirs.

Patricia Gilbert, Salisbury, NC - Our song leader for the weekend is currently the President of the Salisbury District United Methodist Women, which is also the hostess district for the School of Missions and Annual Meeting. Patricia has served in several ministry areas in her local church and on the district level. She is a member of Christ UMC in Salisbury, where she is the "Kids for Jesus" choir director, and has served as church organist for seventeen years. She retired in 2006 from Ingersoll-Rand after 29 years in Engineering Services. Pat and her husband Chuck have three children and six wonderful grandchildren.

The 2008 School Officers Welcome you!


Sara Williams	Michelene Mathews	Donna Parsons	Brenda Alexander
*Dean*	Assistant Dean	Business Manager	Housing Manager

2008 Hostess District:
Salisbury District
Pat Gilbert, District President

2008 School of Christian Mission Committee:
Sara Williams (chair); Michelene Mathews, Donna Parsons, Brenda Alexander, Amy Johnson, Sandy Hieronymus, Ann Aldridge, Sharon Smith, Patricia Wiseman, Linda Baity, Linda Young, Sherry Sink, Kim Keyse, Karen Wilkerson, Rev. Dr. Lillie Jones, Patricia Gilbert, and Peggy Wilkerson

Directions To Greensboro College

Map of Greensboro College

Please Note! College Place, the street that runs through the Greensboro College campus, has been partially closed. See below for more information and directions.

From the North (and the East from I-85)

From Interstate 85
I-85 South merges with I-40 past Durham. As you approach Greensboro, follow Business 85 South/I-40 West into Greensboro/Winston-Salem (exit #131). Business 85 South will then split from I-40 West. Stay to the right and Follow I-40 West (may soon be marked as Business 40) towards Winston-Salem. ** Go approximately 7 miles and take the Wendover Avenue exit (#214). Turn right when coming off the exit ramp and follow Wendover Avenue approximately 3.8 miles to the Downtown/Market Street exit. Turn right at the traffic light at the bottom of the exit ramp. Follow Market Street for 1.7 miles. Turn right onto College Place.

From Highway 29
Follow I-29 South into Greensboro until it merges with South Business 85/I-40 West. Stay to the right and follow I-40 West (may soon be marked as Business 40) towards Winston-Salem. Follow directions at the asterisk (**) from this point.

From Highway 220
Follow into Greensboro (it turns into Battleground Avenue). Continue on Battleground Avenue towards downtown Greensboro for several miles. Turn right onto Hill Street after the railroad crossing. Take immediate left onto Mendenhall Street. Continue a half a mile to the second light (West Market Street) and turn left. Take your first right onto College Place.

FROM THE SOUTH

From Interstate 85
Take the Business 85/ Business-40 West exit (#120-A) into Greensboro. From Business 85, take the Holden Road exit (#34). Turn right at the top of the ramp onto Holden Road. Follow Holden Road for approx. 10 miles. After going under the Wendover Avenue overpass take a right at the 3rd light. This is West Market Street. Follow West Market Street for approximately 2 miles and turn right onto College Place. NOTE: If you missed exit #120-A to get off on Business 85, take the first exit after that (#124 – Elm-Eugene Street) off of I-85N. Turn left off the exit ramp. Follow Elm-Eugene into downtown Greensboro (street name will change to Eugene Street). Cross West Market Street and turn left onto Friendly Avenue at the next light. Follow Friendly Avenue to the 4th light, Mendenhall Street, and turn left. Turn left at light onto West Market Street. Turn right onto College Place.

From Highway 220
Take the second I-40 West exit (#81 toward Winston-Salem). Stay on I-40 West (may soon be marked as Business 40) until you reach the Wendover Avenue exit (#214). Follow the FROM THE NORTH directions for Interstate 85 at this point.

From Highway 421
Follow Highway 421 to Business 85 South/ I-40 West. Stay on I-40 West (may soon be marked as Business 40) until you reach the Wendover Avenue exit (#214). Follow the FROM THE NORTH directions for Interstate 85 at this point.

FROM THE WEST

From Interstate 40
Take Exit #212 and follow Business 40 East into Greensboro. Stay on Business 40 East until the Wendover Avenue East exit (#214-B). Turn right at the top of the exit ramp, then stay on Wendover Avenue for 3.8 miles and take the Downtown/Market Street exit. Turn right at the traffic light at the bottom of the exit ramp and go 1.7 miles. Turn right onto College Place.

From the Piedmont Triad International Airport

From the main terminal, follow the signs to Bryan Boulevard. You will come to the stoplight and turn right onto Bryan Blvd. Travel approximately 9 miles and get into the right lane as you come into the curve. Get into the right hand turn lane and make a right onto Hill Street. Make an immediate left onto Mendenhall Street. Go half a mile and make a left onto Market Street, getting into the far right lane as you turn. Take the first right onto College Place. The Greensboro College sign is on the left and the Welcome Center is on the corner on the right as you turn.

Where Do I Go When I Get There?

NEW! Click here for: FAQ Sheet - 2008 School of Christian Mission (Frequently Asked Questions) [PDF]

Registration (except for one-day overview and Teen Women Event students) will be in the Lea Center (#2 on the map).

On Friday and Saturday, registration for one-day overview students and Saturday Teen Women Event attendees will be in the lobby of the Cowan Building (#5 on the map). You will receive your registration packet, class assignment, and room assignment for resident students. Please note—the circle parking lot behind the Lea Center should be used only for drop-off of passengers & luggage, not for parking. You can enter the back of the Lea Center from the circle via the ramp.

Parking Option 1: (Mainly for resident students) Drop off your luggage & passengers at the circle behind the Lea Center (Main Building) and park in the large lot off of McGee (near #24 on the map). You can reach that lot by turning right on South Mendenhall Street (before you get to College Place), and then turn left at the second street, which is McGee Street. Turn left at College Place, and the parking lot is on your left. You can reach the circle lot behind Lea Center for dropping off luggage by continuing up College Place to the first right, which is the entrance to the circle lot.

Parking Option 2: (Mainly for day students and one-day overview students) Park in the lot on the right off of College Place just after you turn off of West Market Street. This is a convenient & easy access lot to leave your car during the day.

Note: To reach the large McGee parking lot from the Cowan parking lot, you must go back out College Place and turn right on West Market Street, staying in the right lane. Turn right at the second light onto South Spring Street, and stay in the right lane. Stay on Spring Street through the first light, and then turn right at the first street after that light, which is W. McGee Street. Continue on McGee to College Place, and then turn right onto College Place. The parking lot is on your left.

The PURPOSE of United Methodist Women
The organized unit of United Methodist Women shall be a community of women whose purpose is to know God and to experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ; to develop a creative supportive fellowship; and to expand concepts of mission through participation in the global ministries of the church.

Schedule Overview & Other Information
Program Highlights / Schedule Overview	NEW! 2008 School of Christian Mission - FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) [PDF] Watch for Coming Details!!
Who Should Attend?	Local officers and members of UMW; District and Conference UMW Officers; District Chairpersons of Outreach Ministries; Ministers; All men, women, and youth of the Church; and Anyone who would like to worship God, learn new things, and enjoy the fellowship of Christians.
Registration Fees and other costs:	Resident Students	$125.00 (Optional: Additional charge for Private Room - $18.00, Additional charge for Linens - $10.00) ($25.00 of Registration Fee is non-refundable. There will be no refunds without at least 7 days notice.)
	Non-resident Students	$35.00 (no meals included) (Registration fee is non-refundable)
	One Day Overview Students	$15.00 (no meals included) (Registration fee is non-refundable)
	Teen Women Event Students	$15.00 (Lunch included) (Registration fee is non-refundable)
Registration Deadline:	All students must pre-register (Resident, Non-resident, One Day, and Teen Women Participants). See registration brochure (available here on our website, from District Presidents or in your District Newsletters). There will be NO on-site registration. All registrations must be postmarked by June 28, 2008.
One-Day Overview:	Spiritual Growth Study and General Issue Study: Either Friday OR Saturday. Registration time: See Program Book. Session times: See Program Book. The mission study texts will be available for purchase in the registration area on Friday and Saturday mornings.
Teen Women Event:	Date: Saturday, July 26, 2008 Cost: $15.00 (Includes Lunch) More information
Location:	Greensboro College, 815 West Market Street, Greensboro, NC 27401. College Switchboard: (336) 272-7102. Campus security: ext.245.
Contact for Questions:	Sara Williams, Dean, 2008 School of Christian Mission, sarawill@yadtel.net

Prior Year Mission Studies / Information
Click Here to Visit General Board of Global Ministries Website pages about Mission Studies Spiritual Growth Study theme description - Music and Mission Geographic Study theme description - Israel / Palestine General Issue Study theme description - Globalization
þ Link to Music and Mission Website	þ Link to Israel/Palestine Website	þ Link to Globalization Website
NEW! Free Download PDF! Singing God's Mission Youth Spiritual Growth Study Guide [PDF]	From Women's Division Website: Additional Information for Israel/Palestine 2007-2008 Mission Study [PDF]	From Women's Division Website: Cartoon - What's Global? [PDF] Globalization Timeline [PDF]
2007 Mission Studies: Music and Mission Israel / Palestine Globalization: Its Impact on People's Lives	2006 Mission Studies: Shalom - Salaam - Peace Globalization: Its Impact on People's Lives India and Pakistan	2005 Mission Studies: Children of the Bible Public Education India and Pakistan
2004 Mission Studies: Concerning Prayer Public Education Cuba	2003 Mission Studies: Exodus: The Journey to Freedom Creating Interfaith Community Mexico: Labyrinth of Faith	2002 Mission Studies: James Mexico: Labyrinth of Faith Restorative Justice
2001 Mission Studies: Jesus & Courageous Women Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos: Lands and People Global Health and Christian Response-Ability	2000 Mission Studies: Paul's Letters to the Corinthians Children of Africa God's People in an Urban Culture	1999 Mission Studies: The Bible, Part II Mission in the 21st Century Humanity Comes of Age
1998 Mission Studies: The Bible, Part I Refugees and Global Migration Indonesia	1997 Mission Studies: Joshua & the Land Brazil Living as Christians in the Midst of a Violent Society	1996 Mission Studies: John Wesley China and Hong Kong Living in a Multicultural Society
2007 School of Christian Mission Program Book (PDF) 2006 School of Christian Mission Program Book (PDF) 2005 School of Christian Mission Program Book (PDF) 2004 School of Christian Mission Program Book (PDF)