Nominations Term to expire in 2007

Regional Board Executive Committee

Moderator Rev. Brad Miller, Minister Brookhaven Christian Church, Atlanta, North West District

Moderator – Elect Rev. Milton West, Minister First Christian Church, Valdosta South West District

Vice Moderator Jocelyn Wheaton, Layperson God’s City of Refuge, Atlanta North West District

Secretary Rev. Sam Nickols, Retired Minister First Christian Church, Athens North East District

Treasurer Rev. Dr. Roger Sizemore, Minister First Christian Church, Savannah South East District

Regional Board Members Term to expire 2008

Allen Hodges, Layperson Lainie Jenkins, Layperson First Christian Church, Sandersville Guyton Christian Church, Guyton East Central District South East District Leon Jones Mercy Seat Christian Church, Thomasville South West District

Credentials Committee Term to expire 2008

Pam Mikovitz, Layperson First Christian Church, Warner Robins West Central District

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General Board Members Christian Church in Georgia

General Board Member Rev. George Bennett, Retired Minister First Christian Church, Valdosta South West District Church Finance Council Mr. Michael Adams, Layperson Board Member First Christian Church, Athens North East District Reconciliation Committee Rev. Ketty Santos, Minister Iglesia El Aposento Alto, Forest Park North West District Disciple Historical Society Mr. Gordon Dalrymple, Layperson Board Chairperson Sandy Springs Christian Church, Atlanta North West District Division of Overseas Ministries Dr. Angel Guardiola, Layperson Board Member Community Christian Church, Fayetteville North West District Division of Overseas Ministry Rev. Dr. Cynthia Hale, Minister Board Member Ray of Hope Christian Church, Decatur North West District Council on Christian Unity Mr. Nathan Digby, Layperson Board Member First Christian Church, Decatur North West District

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Regional Minister’s Report

Welcome to the 156th Assembly of the Christian Church in Georgia. One hundred and fifty six years seems like an incredibly long time. There is a lot of history tied up in 156 years of the church meeting, worshipping and supporting each other. It is indeed something we should be proud of and celebrate. This however is my first Regional Assembly in Georgia. I’m still trying to connect with all the history of the Christian Church in Georgia. As I learn where congregations are, which congregations were established when, and who has served them as ministers, I am constantly aware that it is important to know our history. I find also the even more important aspect is to know where we are heading. Consequently I find myself more often focusing on what is coming and what can be instead of what was. One of the goals and purposes of the Region is to assist and enable congregations to be what God has called them to be. Doing that includes getting to know the congregations and their situations so that we can help them be more viable and faithful locations of mission in this part of the world. A major emphasis I have had since coming June 1 has been to be present in as many congregations as possible, and to visit personally with as many pastors as possible. The building of relationships is critical to the success of the Region in the future. As pastoral and caring relationships of presence are established, the issues which may arise are more easily dealt with and the opportunities for ministry are enhanced. At the end of October, I had been present in worship or a meeting with 36 of our congregations and at district meetings in 4 of the 6 districts. I am hopeful that the other two districts can be reactivated in the near future. Part of the new vision and the future is exhibited in the leadership transitions that are going on in congregations in the Region. Currently we are working with 14 congregations in the Search and Call process. That means those congregations are engaged in the future and their vision for the congregation and the Region. Some of those are adding staff in order to become what they are called to be. In each of those, the discovery of the “right” person is of critical importance to who the church can be and what it will become. Pastors we have welcomed to the Region in the past year include:

Andy Campbell serving at First Christian, Griffin Erin Iobst serving as Associate Pastor at Sandy Springs Christian Church, Atlanta Joseph Young at Loganville Christian Church, Loganville

Interims or transitional ministers serving include Wendy Miles at First Christian Church, Eastman Raymond Lowe at First Christian Church, Waycross Doug Holden at Guyton Christian Church, Guyton Katie Hayes at First Christian Church, Lawrenceville Jack Hudson at First Christian Church, Glennville Hoyt Huff and Ray Austin serving together at Friendship Christian Church, Athens

Steve Womack at St. Andrew Christian Church, Macon

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First Christian Church in Sandersville, Union Christian in Watkinsville, Eagles Landing Christian Church, are each working on securing interim ministerial leadership. We are doing an excellent job of recruiting ministerial leadership for the future. Part of the credit for that goes to our youth and young adult ministries which encourage young people to hear and respond to God’s calling upon their life. The other part is from congregations who identify and encourage students to seek seminary preparation for ministry. At a meeting recently, we had 19 Disciples who are seminary students in Atlanta. There are another 7 we know of who were not present. Additionally we have 3 students attend ing seminary outside of this Region. A pressing opportunity for the future will be to find scholarship help to assist those and future students. We are also working on another emergent area of ministerial leadership in terms of licensed ministry. In cooperation with the Christian College of Georgia, and the School of Lay Theology being conducted out of First Christian Church in Savannah, we are addressing the need to train and equip people for ministry in another way than the traditional seminary preparation. This is a recognized need and issue being addressed also by the whole church There is a bright future here in Georgia for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). I am convinced we have a particular niche where people are eager to hear the gospel message in our words. The mission of Christ is waiting for us. Any church that engages first and foremost in doing the mission and ministry of Jesus will thrive. We as the Christian Church in Georgia intend to be about that. I hope your experience here at Assembly is profitable, feeds your soul and establishes new relationships for you. I appreciate and thank Ray of Hope Christian Church for their help and hosting of the Assembly. Be sure to say hello as I hurry past doing all the things I do. Blessing in the spirit of Christ.

Ray Miles Regional Minister

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Report to the 2005 Regional Assembly Associate Regional Minister, Michael Weeks

I was excited to welcome Dr. Ray Miles as our new regional minister this year. It has been a difficult time for him and all of us on regional staff as we have been forced to deal with the financial situation in the region. Ministry continues and under Ray’s leadership and we can see the light at the end of the tunnel. It has been a pleasure to work with Ray these past few months as we have continued working in the ministries to which we are all called.

Ray, the staff, and a cadre of regional volunteers of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Georgia have continued the process of moving toward a more task-oriented approach to ministry this year. By becoming more task-oriented, we have begun the transformation of our ministry teams so that more of what we do as a regional church is mission-based.

I anticipate great things happening next year in our region. I look forward to continuing my work as your Associate Regional Minister.

Much of my work this year has focused in the following areas:

• on our camp and conference center as it continues its growth • sharing our camps story in congregations • clergy support • assisting clergy in the search and call process for ministerial relocation • attending ministers meetings • preaching and filling in on Sundays for clergy • working with the regional staff on program and fundraising initiatives • visiting, sharing and teaching in congregations • visiting and supporting youth ministries in our region • developing a youth training event with other regions scheduled for July 2006

I strive to bring a share a prophetic word in every context about the importance of mission-based ministry in the region, but especially about ministry with youth and young adults. I have also worked with several ministry teams as Associate Regional Minster:

Serve as liaison to Ministry Teams serving with these groups • Christian Education • Camp Ministry Advisory Team • Youth Activity Council: facilitating the annual youth assembly—Youth-A-Palooza • Young Adult Disciples Association • The Christian College of Georgia: supporting their retreat and ministry programs • The Communication Commission

I want to thank you for allowing me to serve as your associate regional minister and as executive director of Camp Christian Conference Center. I continue to be excited about the future of our ministries together.

En Agape’, Rev. Michael Weeks, Associate Regional Minister

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Disciple Retreat Usage Increases in 2005 Our camp and conference center sustained growth in Disciple usage during the past year. Remember Disciple congregations receive a 10% discount for camps and retreats. We are excited that more adults and youth are using our Sanctuary in the woods for spiritual retreats and conferences.

Summer General Assemblies make it difficult to schedule our camps and leave additional dates open for other groups to use our facilities. This is one of the reasons we are down on camp usage for 2005. We are excited to report that we already have one large non-Disciple camp scheduled next summer. Summer camping numbers were down by 34 kids in Camp Balaam this summer. Balaam is our camp for needy children in Wilkinson County. Taking this into account, our summer camping numbers are just 6 persons less than 2004.

We are planning for growth in our summer camping and retreat program next year. We are excited about the DVD summer camp presentation which will be coming to every congregation in the camp registration packets in January. Please drop by our booth and preview the DVD here at Regional Assembly.

Camp Usage Figures in # of persons served 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 CCINGA Summer Camps 406 446 421 402 259 Disciple Retreats and Camps 335 271 370 104 0 Non-Disciple Retreats and Camps 692 1223 789 199 0

Totals: 1433 1940 1580 705 259 2006 Planning We continue to work toward financial viability in our budget. This year we have cut back on staff and are planning to invite interested Disciples to take part in a volunteer ministries program. You will be invited to come for a week or weekend and help with maintenance at the camp in the summer. Our Camp Ministry Advisory Team (CMAT) continues its work putting in place policies and procedures for the operation of CCCC. We met in August and hammered out the budget which was approved by the Regional Board and is forwarded to this assembly for your approval.

Camp Work Day May 6, 2006 We look forward to your congregation’s participation in the camp workday this spring. Participants will help us with maintenance and the painting of our summer cabins, getting them ready for our camping program.

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Friendship Circle for Camp Christian Conference Center By action of the Camp Ministry Advisory Team, The Friendship Circle was formed to recognize those individuals who make gifts to the camp for our current fund. An invitation to join the circle is available to you right now at the camp booth here at the assembly. Many of you will have already received the newsletter Holding Hands which thanks our 2004 donors who helped us with our mortgage loan payments for the 2002 Increasing Our Ministry Campaign. The newsletter also serves as your opportunity to give this year. Our thanks again to all those who give!

We selected the name “Friendship Circle” because every evening since the first summer camp in Georgia, has closed with a friendship circle. We feel that it is important to remember the many friendship circles that have been joined by those in Georgia who participated in outdoor ministry camps and conferences over the years--even before Camp Christian began its ministry more than 40 years ago. Everyone who ever attended a camp has fond memories of the closing camp friendship circle.

In conclusion The 2005-2006 CMAT Team Members want to thank the many congregations, groups and individuals who have given time and money to our shared ministry this year. We covet your prayers and support for Camp Christian Conference Center.

Elaine Hightower Peachtree Christian, Atlanta Rev. Doug Job Watkinsville Steve Manley Sandy Springs Christian, Atlanta Rev. Brad Miller Brookhaven Christian, Atlanta Julie Phlegar First Christian, Athens

Mary Kaye Veal First Christian, Sandersville Gary Wall First Christian, Winder David Wheaton God’s City of Refugee Christian, Atlanta Rev. Michael Weeks, Executive Director

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Congregational Giving in Support of Camp Christian Conference Center 2005

On behalf of all children, youth, and adults who use Camp Christian Conference Center we say thank you to these groups and congregations who have given to our current fund. $5,000 or more $1000-$4,999 Peachtree Christian Church, First Christian Church, Augusta $500-$999 Peachtree Christian, CWF First Christian Church, Winder, CMF St Andrew Christian Church, Macon First Christian Church, Sandersville Brookhaven Christian Church, Atlanta First Christian Church, Athens, Disciple Men First Christian Church of Atlanta, Tucker CWF Union Christian Church, Watkinsville, Disciple Men

$200-$499 First Christian Church, Lawrenceville CWF Community Christian Church, Fayetteville CWF Central Christian Church, Augusta, CMF Central Christian Church, Augusta, CWF First Christian Church, Sandersville, CWF Up to $200 First Christian Church, Watkinsville, Youth First Christian Church, Eastman First Christian Church, Augusta First Christian Church, Sandersville, Adult Choir

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Report to the 2005 Assembly Women’s Ministries

Practice Hospitality

The word which best describes my experience in the region since our last assembly is “hospitality.” As Christians, we are called to practice hospitality in a variety of ways – at an open communion table, by opening our lives and our hearts to the stranger, by a willingness to step outside our “comfort zone” and try a new thing, and by creating spaces in our churches and in our lives where others are welcome. I have seen hospitality in action in the churches of Georgia this year. What a blessing! I am grateful to serve in this region.

Learning and Serving

Opening minds and hearts is an innate part of women’s ministry in Georgia. The 2004 response to the Operation Christmas Child project yielded over 400 shoe boxes of toys, clothing, school supplies, toiletries, and other small items for children in need around the world. Churches continue to collect pound after pound of soft drink pop tops to benefit Ronald McDonald Houses around the state. In January 2005, I traveled to Indianapolis for the biennial gathering of International Christian Women’s Fellowship staff and regional presidents. Disciple women from Georgia sent me to that meeting with nearly $1500 in medical supplies and checks for Week of Compassion to help victims of the Tsunami. This was in response to a one-week challenge to respond; our women opened their hearts and their pocketbooks with generosity.

There was an atmosphere of hospitality at the ICWF meeting as we shared ideas, worshipped, and worked together. We brainstormed on future study materials, made plans for the upcoming Mix in ’06 Women’s Event, heard from women who had traveled to Kenya on the 2004 Woman-to-Woman program, and learned about various ministries available to women in our church. Our Regional President, Ann Haines, was not able to attend; Commission Member Barbara Powell attended in her place.

Early in the year, weather permitting, Christian Women’s Fellowship district winter lunches brought together CWF presidents and other interested officers to share ideas and make plans for Spring Conferences.

Spring Conferences were held on six weekends in March and April. Host churches were Atlanta First Christian, Athens Friendship, Macon St. Andrew, Dublin First, Valdosta First, and Glennville First. 225 women attended, representing over 30 churches in our region. Our theme was “Seeking God’s Direction.” Participants showed hospitality to a new format for the conference as we took a “spiritual journey on a river,” stopping at outposts along the way to hear from our study, worship, and service coordinators and enjoy music and musings by our president and staff person.

As always, women in the churches showed their thirst for knowledge and desire for learning. At each conference, Cokesbury books and Christian Board of Publication curriculum materials were available. There were also many free resources related to women’s ministries. A highlight of these conferences was the opportunity to meet women from other churches and be strengthened for the journey.

In June, 1000 snack bags of trail mix were assembled to be given out at the July 1-5 meeting of the General Synod of the United Church of Christ in Atlanta. Financial gifts from a number of women’s groups in the region paid for the mix, and 2 churches came together to package the snacks for distribution. Nine women from our region helped to staff the “Mix in ’06” booth at the Synod, inviting and encouraging our UCC sisters to join us in Indianapolis next summer (June 21-25, 2006).

Throughout the year, women looked forward eagerly to the announcement of new book club titles by Commission Member Frances Shumake.

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Opportunities for Fellowship

Between luncheons, conferences, barbecues, worship services, installations, ordinations, and retreats, it has been a full year of getting better acquainted with Disciples in Georgia. Special worship opportunities since the last assembly include speaking at the Sandy Springs Christian Advent brunch, preaching during a Holy Week revival at Marietta First Christian, speaking at the Savannah First Christian Mother-Daughter Banquet and Women’s Day Sunday Worship, participating in the ordination service of Rev. Carolynn Miller at Brookhaven Christian, installing the CWF officers at New Hope Christian, bringing a word of celebration at the Shiloh Christian Sanctuary Restoration Service, and speaking on Miracle Day weekend at Hiltonia Christian. I also enjoyed opportunities to worship with the congregations of Winder First, Watkinsville Union, Atlanta First, Lawrenceville First, Cherry Log, and Decatur First Christian Church.

Sabbath Time

I was blessed by the gathering of ministers at the Voices Retreat at Camp Christian in February and the Ministers’ Retreat at Epworth in early May. These were times of refueling for the journey.

June and July was a tumultuous time in our family life as we said “goodbye” to my father-in- law, Rev. George Calvert, who had colon cancer. We were blessed to go up to New York for a quick visit in late June. George still had strength to visit at that point, and we were able to be at table fellowship with him and share stories and memories as well as gratitude. We met as a family with the hospice caregivers and were grateful for their presence at such a difficult time. George was an example of living and dying gracefully. He passed away on July 17th. It was perhaps the greatest honor of my life to participate in the service of remembrance the following week.

I attended the last three days of the General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Portland, Oregon, which began on July 23rd. Between the jet-lag and the haze of grief following the funeral, the Assembly went by in a blur. I did help to coordinate the Atlanta United Divinity Center luncheon which brought together students, alumni, and supporters of the Atlanta-based seminaries. Women’s ministry highlights at the Assembly were the clergy women’s breakfast, the election and installation of Dr. Sharon Watkins as General Minister and President, and the joyful celebration of women coming together for the Women’s luncheon on the last day of the assembly. I was strengthened by the gathering of friends, by the faith and commitment shown in business sessions, and the hope which rose up in the midst of worship.

Helping to Make Sabbath Time for Others

In early June, I led Discovery Weekend for Women at Christmount, NC, along with former Regional Staff Person Carol Lavery. We reprised our portrayals of Mary and Elizabeth which we had done at our Georgia Regional Women’s Retreat in 2003, but we were able to enhance our presentations with small group discussions and feedback times. While we expended a lot of effort, it was great fun!

August, September, and early October were spent preparing for and carrying out the regional Clergy Women’s retreat and the Christian Women’s retreat. 10 women attended the clergy retreat, but there were that many more who wished to come and were not able because of schedule conflicts. The 24-hour retreat at Camp Christian was a wonderful time of connection, support, and spiritual growth. Again, I was moved by the hospitality shown as those gathered provided support for each other in our respective callings and ministry.

The 52nd Annual Christian Women’s Retreat, normally held at Norman Park, was moved “late in the game” to Epworth-by-the-Sea at St. Simon’s Island because of Norman Park’s ministry to evacuees from Hurricane Katrina. Rev. Petie McLean received rave reviews for her keynote addresses and insights into the lives of Biblical women such as Anna and the mother of the boy who shared the loaves and fishes. Women adapted to the change in location. We did not have the “spread out” space that we normally have;

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but Sue Merritt, with her gracious hospitality, transformed the meeting room into an inviting space of beauty, and commission members helped to make everyone feel welcome.

Evaluations were very positive. We were 140 women strong – sharing and singing and praising together. Over $1400 was raised through boutique sales to be divided between the Narok Conservation Program in Kenya and Week of Compassion. Over $1900 was given in offerings for ministries of the Christian Church in Georgia along with another $429 to offset retreat expenses. Blessing box offerings totaling nearly $9,000 collected throughout the year in gratitude for daily gifts were received and sent to spread more blessings through the Church Finance Council of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). An emergency request for Church World Service healthcare kits in response to Katrina brought nearly 30 kits, primarily from the women of Valdosta First Christian.

Looking Ahead with Hope

The Christian Women’s Fellowship Commission has met 4 times since our last assembly, making plans for upcoming events and looking to the future of women’s ministry in Georgia. This body is made up of a diverse group of talented and dedicated women from throughout the region. As we look forward to 2006, we have new members who are eagerly beginning their work.

Our region has been approved to host a Woman-to-Woman representative from Bolivia in June prior to the Mix in ’06 Women’s Event. We are responsible for providing a translator, housing, spending money, and travel throughout the region during her stay as well as transportation to Indianapolis for the Mix. This is a wonderful opportunity for us to give back in response to the wonderful welcome our WWW representatives have received in other countries and to experience firsthand our sisterhood in Jesus Christ which surpasses all boundaries.

For the next year, women’s fellowships are invited to take part in “Bread and Letters Together (BLT).” This project involves addressing hunger in our local communities with gifts to local food pantries and addressing hunger globally as we write letters through Bread for the World. Go to www.discipleswomen.org for more information.

As I look toward another year in ministry with the region, I am striving toward these goals:

• A deeper spiritual life;

• Faithful support of the work of the Christian Women’s Fellowship Commission;

• Regular communication to local churches/women’s groups/individuals;

• Better use of computer technology in connecting directly and in a timely manner with women of the region;

• Improved networking and support among congregations in their efforts to create and sustain vital ministry to women;

• The seeking of an intentional connection with Disciples women’s groups and individuals not related to Christian Women’s Fellowship for the sharing of gifts, ideas, and ministry;

• Encouragement of a large and diverse regional participation in the Mix in ’06 Women’s Event in Indianapolis, June 21-25.

• An expansion of the reach of women’s ministries through learning and trying new models of ministry; and

• Continued support of clergy women in our region through regular communication and fellowship.

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May God continue to bless us in our ministry together.

Respectfully submitted,

Betty C. Brewer-Calvert

Regional Director of Women’s Ministries

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Christian Education Report to the 2005 Regional Assembly

Summer Camping Ministry Camp Christian and Camp Kicklighter continued their ministries to children and youth this past summer. During this past summer many youth and adults gathered for camps in these two locations. They found FUN, FELLOWSHIP, and FAITH. While having fun the youth and experienced fellowship and also expanded their faith.

Camp Kicklighter continues to meet the needs of the youth of the Southeast District in Georgia. CYF Conference had 27 campers and counselors in attendance. Chi Rho Camp had 48 campers plus adults and 29 youth attended Junior Camp along with a large group of adults.

Evaluations from Camp Christian this summer were excellent. Students enjoyed their time at camp. Our Disciple camping numbers were down by 6 campers this summer. We had a total of 406 campers, counselors, and directors. We were disappointed that we had only 26 campers from Wilkinson County for Camp Balaam this summer, but otherwise we were right on target with our participation from congregations and matched our 2004 numbers. There is plenty of room for more participation in the future in our facilities. We are also happy to report that there will be no rate increase this year for summer camp.

Summer Camping Information

• We will have Director and Counselor Training sessions on March 11, 2006 and April 15, 2006. • We will begin our pre-camp training at 3:30 pm the day before camp next summer. • Our 2006 schedule is available in your docket and brochures are available at the Camp Booth here

at the Regional Assembly. • Publicity for the 2006 Camping Program will be in congregations in early January 2006 along

with the special DVD you can see at the camp booth.

Church Leadership Seminars:

We are happy to report that we have begun a series of Leadership Seminars our first has been offered twice this year and dealt with Volunteer Committee Motivation & Management and was led by David Murphy of Sandy Springs Christian Church. We give our thanks to David and to Sandy Springs Christian Church and First Christian Church of Sandersville who hosted the events on behalf of the church and all those who attended. A big thank you to all those who spent time serving as a counselor or director. Without this support, our camp and conference program would not be possible. Submitted by Rev. Darrell Vandervort, Chairperson

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Peace Talks!

Georgia Disciple 2006 Summer Camps

2006 Date Event Grade Complete June 5 – 9 Junior 1 3rd, 4th, or 5th June 9 - 11 Chrysalis 1st or 2nd

June 12 – 17 CYF Conference 10th, 11th, or 12th June 17 – 18 YADA 12th or 18 to 30 June 19 – 24 Chi Rho 6th or 7th

June 26 – July 1 Mid Hi Conference 8th or 9th July 6 – 9 Servants for Christ 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th July 7 – 9 Genesis Kindergarten, parent or grandparent

July 9 – 13 Balaam For qualifying 11th and 12th graders interested in being Counselors In Training for elementary students

July 9-15 Created To Be Me 8th Grade Youth Conference held at Christmount in Black Mountain, North Carolina

July 17 – 21 Junior II 3rd, 4th, or 5th

Get more information on Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Georgia, Camp Christian summer 2006 schedule from the camp brochure available at the

camp booth.

Projected 2006 Camp Kicklighter Dates

June 11-16 CYF June 18-23 Chi Rho June 16-18 DSF June 25-30 Junior

Registration information will be available from your church in January 2006! See the Camp Brochure for more detailed information about these events.

Information for Camp Christian is available on line at www.gadisciples.org/camp

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COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION REPORT The Communications Commission has held one meeting plus numerous email conferences during 2005. Early in the year, we set terms for each board member so that rotation of terms would take place. The following are members of the commission and their term of office:

Term expires in 2005 Linda Whitmire, Sandy Spring CC Kris Jensen, Lawrenceville First CC

Term expires in 2006 Sean Barnave, Ray of Hope CC Buddy Ray, Atlanta First (Tucker)

Term expires in 2007 Byron Wells, Chestnut Ridge CC Bill Thompson (Chair), Cherry Log CC So far, the Messenger offering for 2005 is $4483.23 compared with $5185 in 2004 and $3922 in 2003. We were not able to print offering envelopes this year, due to budget constraints. We advertised this offering online, in the Minister’s mailing, with Buddy Ray’s emails, and in the October Messenger. We hope to exceed $5000 in total offerings. Messenger issues this year were mailed in February, March, July, August, and October. We are trying to establish a bi-monthly schedule in the even months of the year. The December issue has been canceled due to the lack of budget funds. In March, we engaged the services of Outreach Graphics (www.outreachgraphics.com) to provide seamless design services for the Messenger. Our sincere thanks goes to committee member Kris Jensen of Lawrenceville First for providing at no cost his services to design our New Christian Messenger for some 6 issues, all the while working as a senior editor with the Atlanta Journal Constitution. Our regional web site continues to be a source of considerable pride! It is a very useful vehicle for communicating what is going on among the churches. It is a most cost effective vehicle as well. The regular email updates alert us to the latest features of the web site. Remember that camp fees, registrations and donations can be made through the web site using Paypal. Dean Phelps had served as our regional staff liaison and coordinator of Messenger articles. Since Dean’s move to Indiana, Michael Weeks has been assigned to work with the Commission on the Messenger. Thanks to all who have sent in articles for the Messenger or the web site this year. They are both effective means of keeping us all informed of the ministry of the region. Keep those articles coming! Christian Messenger dates and deadline are tentatively planned as follows: February Issue, submission deadline February 1, 2006 April Issue, submission deadline April 5, 2006 June Issue, submission deadline June 7, 2006 August Issue, submission deadline August 9, 2006 October Issue, submission deadline October 4, 2006 William L. Thompson, Chair Communications Commission

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COMMISSION ON THE MINISTRY REPORT

This past year the Commission on the Ministry called Dr. Jack L. Snellgrove, Senior Minister of the Chattahoochee Christian Church in Duluth, Georgia to be the chairperson. The year has been one of rebuilding. The usual business of helping graduating seminarians move through the final stage of ordination, satisfy requirements to transfer standing, and interviewing persons seeking to be licensed into a particular are of ministry has kept members active. James Brewer-Calvert convenes the sub-committee overseeing licensing and Jerry Gladson convenes the sub-committee on standing. At present the commission works with ordination candidates.

The Commission is working with the Atlanta United Divinity Center to establish a relationship with seminarians seeking ordination. The Commission is also looking at a variety of ways persons seeking ordination and standing in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) can satisfy the need for a course in Disciples of Christ history and polity. The Commission is excited about all those seeking to enter into the service of Jesus Christ through a variety of ministries. The Commission’s goal is to provide nurture, guidance, and encouragement through the various processes.

The following people were authorized for Ministry in the past year:

Ordination

Carolynn Miller Ailsa Guardiola Gonzalez

Transfer of Standing

Christopher Goss

Licensure

Ed Tiller, Augusta Central Gary Cubbedge Savannah First

Carolyn Flemming, Atlanta, Brookhaven Katie Hays, Lawrenceville First

Comments and suggestions for the Commission on the Ministry may be directed to Dr. Jack L. Snellgrove at chchch@bellsouth.net or at Chattahoochee Christian Church 10800 Bell Rd., Duluth, GA 30041.

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RECONCILIATION TASK FORCE Definition of Reconciliation Reconciliation is a process in which individuals and groups experience the wonder and joy of full community with God and each other. Reconciliation bridges the barriers caused by divisions of race, ethnicity, social and economic status, disability, gender, sexual orientation, age, culture, and geographic location. Authentic relationships are at the heart of reconciliation. Scriptural Mandate: Because we have been reconciled to God in Christ, we are all called to participate in the ministry of reconciliation: “So if anyone is in Christ there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us. So we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” (2 Cor 5:17-21) Purpose and Goals The purpose of this task force is to: • Encourage prayer for reconciliation • Offer Biblical principles for reconciliation • Create tools for congregations to engage in the ministry of reconciliation, particularly in the area of

racial reconciliation The prayer, study and fellowship of the task force members will support these goals. Progress § The Reconciliation Task Force acknowledges the work of the “Life Concerns Commission” (1997-

1998) as part of our regional history to address racial reconciliation. We honor the work, commitment, and prayers of this past effort that sought to bring healing and restoration during a time of struggle and pain. It is our hope that our efforts help to fulfill their prayers for racial reconciliation in the region, and pave the way for others to continue this work until we truly experience the wonder and joy of full community with God and with each other:

§ The Task Force met four times in 2005 and addressed the following questions:

1. If the heart of reconciliation is relationships, how can existing or new structures be used to support such relationships? § Co-chairs Kathy McDowell and Jocelyn Wheaton explored an existing

congregational partnership program to identify opportunities that facilitate reconciliation as well as understand challenges that inhibit reconciliation.

§ Task Force promoted “Week of Prayer for Reconciliation” in conjunction with

Reconciliation Mission Offering September 25th – October 2nd. An instructional guide and assessment tool were provided on the regional website describing how congregations could participate in the “Week of Prayer for Reconciliation.”

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§ Task Force continues to explore developing a comprehensive Congregational Partnership Program.

2. What outcomes can we envision in this church/region in the area of racial reconciliation? How might this guide our work? § Task Force is preparing to build a “toolbox” of activities to help congregations

move towards experiencing the wonder and joy of full community with God and with each other:

• Congregational Partnerships • Study, Bible Study, and Meaningful Dialogue • Week of Prayer for Reconciliation • Fellowship • Worship • Joint Missions • Other ideas

§ Task Force will continue to look for training, study, prayer and fellowship opportunities to grow and develop its membership for the work of reconciliation.

3. How should our efforts link with the Reconciliation Mission of the Christian Church? § Task Force has reviewed materials from Reconciliation Mission Ministry and is

considering ways to incorporate relevant themes, concepts, and tools into our efforts to promote reconciliation in Georgia. We will participate in some way in Reconciliation training for southeast DOC regions in spring 2006.

Ongoing Recruitment § The Task Force welcomes all persons who wish to help us explore ways to promote racial

reconciliation and to help the Christian Church in Georgia (Disciples of Christ) experience the wonder and joy of full community with God and with each other.

Prayerfully submitted by the Reconciliation Task Force:

Co-chairs: Kathy McDowell, Associate Pastor, First Christian Church of Atlanta kathymcdee@aol.com (770) 939-4358 Jocelyn Wheaton, member God’s City of Refuge Christian Church djwheaton@aol.com (770) 732-9746

Members: Darrell Vandervort Leland Mott Keith Somerville Orlando Scott Larry Gunter George Bennett Tameaka Scott Ray Miles Suzanne Cole Wages

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Georgia YOUTH ACTIVITY COUNCIL Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Georgia

What is Georgia’s Youth Activity Council?

The Youth Activity Council creates and implements youth ministries, including the annual youth assembly—Youth-A-Palooza, and fosters and supports programs to develop the full potential of youth as they participate in the congregational, district, regional and general levels of the church. The council additionally helps to nurture connections between congregations sharing ideas and fostering cooperation on a variety of youth ministries across our region.

The Council is composed of Adults and Youth selected to represent their congregations in the planning and leading of Regional Youth Events of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Georgia . One youth representative is selected by each congregation that wishes to participate. Adults are appointed by the Christian Education Commission. The adults and youth serve as participants in the planning and implementing of regional youth ministries.

Please make sure that your congregation is represented by this important group of youth leaders in 2006. Information on selection of your representative is available on the website www.gadisciples.org. We are excited that our Youth Activity Council will be participating in a multi-regional Youth Leadership Seminar. The event will be at Christmount Christian Assembly, July 17-21, 2006.

The council has planned Youth-A-Palooza for January 13-15, 2006 at St. Simon’s Island, Georgia, Epworth by the Sea. We hope your congregation will participate. Registration forms have already been mailed to congregations. Registration information is available on the web or at the displays here at the assembly.

Now we want to say thanks to these leaders from congregations across the state. Thanks for your hard work and good luck with the assembly in January.

2005-2006 YOUTH ACTIVITY COUNCIL

Christy Allgood (Athens, First) (12th) Joey Baker (Lawrenceville, First) (12th) Andrew Darby (Decatur, First) (12th) Sarah McClelland (Valdosta, First) (12th) Sarah Hunter (Lawrenceville, New Hope) (12th) Ali Phillips (Watkinsville, First) (12th) Raisha Fiveash (Sandersville, First (11th) Chris Freeman (Griffin, First) (11th) Elizabeth Highsmith (Atlanta, Peachtree) (11th) Katherine Lochery (Atlanta, Sandy Springs) (11th) Demarcus Martin (AIM) (11th) Nicole Hicks (Warner Robins, First) (10th) Alex Mowrey (Atlanta, Brookhaven) (11th) Alex Pounds (Tucker, First Atlanta) (12th) Jennifer Pugh (Co lumbus, Central (11th) Brent Taylor (Guyton, Guyton) (11th) Whitney Wingate (Albany, First) (11th) Josh Witkowski (Duluth, Chattahoochee) (11th) Josh Burgess (Flowery Branch, SOJ) (10h) Katie Cook (Loganville, Loganville) (10th) Kelley Roberts (Norcross, Peachtree Corners (10th) Matt Thompson (Macon, First) (10th) Emma Witherington (Winder, First) (10th)

Emily Abernathy (Marietta, Chestnut Ridge) (10th) Courtney Hurt (AIM) (9th) Adults Brandy Alsobrook (Decatur, First) Sandra Barnhill (AIM) Danny Gulden (Atlanta, Sandy Springs) Mary Michael Gulden (Atlanta, Sandy Springs) Joseph Hasty (Guyton, Guyton) Katie Hawkins (Watkinsville, First) Wildean Easters-McClelland (Valdosta, First) Stephanie McCormick (Marietta, Chestnut Ridge) Courtney Montgomery (Winder, First) Julie Runnion (Central, Columbus)

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Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Georgia

This group was formed following the 2001 Youth Assembly to help increase the fellowship and connections of young adults in and from Disciples churches. Our group is composed of 18-30 something persons who are married and unmarried and are seeking fellowship with other young adults in Disciple churches. Summer Event at Camp Christian Conference Center 22 young adults participated in our annual summer retreat. They plan to get together again in January for a ski trip to Sugar Mountain. They will be joined by University of Georgia Disciples on Campus for this retreat. They invite all young adult Disciples to join them in North Carolina for this event and at their June 17-18, 2006 summer retreat. Christmount: YADA Ski Sugar Mountain! Jan 20-22, 2005 Details:

Cost: $88 per person for 2 nights lodging and some meals at Christmount Lodging will be hotel style with 3 or 4 people to a room.

Event begins at 8:00 pm on Friday Night and ends following breakfast Sunday Saturday we ski. Pick up fast food breakfast on the way $5 Lift tickets: $43 Ski Rentals: $15 for Boots, skis, poles Ski Lessons: $13 Snow Board and Boot rentals: $23 Snow Board Lessons: $15 Lunch on the slopes is around $10 Saturday night supper is at Christmount Sunday Breakfast at Christmount

Total Cost for Skiing: $161 plus lessons, transportation & additional meals Total Cost for Snow Boarding: $169 plus lessons, transportation & additional meals Please email Michael@gadisciples.org if you would like more information on this retreat.

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THE CAMPBELL-STONE MINISTRIES Did you know?

Campbell-Stone has been providing housing and services to older adults in Atlanta for over forty years! Our first community, Campbell-Stone Apartments in Buckhead, opened in 1964. The first resident at Campbell-Stone North Apartments in Sandy Springs, moved in to the community in 1978. The name Campbell-Stone, comes from the founding ministers of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ): Thomas Campbell and his son Alexander, and Barton Stone. The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) was the first denomination started in the United States, founded in 1832. Both Campbell-Stone communities provide affordable housing and services. Both are connected with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and have rental subsidy available to our residents. Many of our residents are limited in their financial means and without these communities would have significant challenges in meeting their basic need for a place to call home. Campbell-Stone is a not-for-profit organization. We do not have shareholders. We do not focus our operations and business on the need to make money. While we are fiscally responsible in all aspects of our organization, we are guided by our mission and our firm belief that Campbell-Stone is a ministry to God’s older children. The Campbell-Stones are very different from most HUD communities for the elderly. Both locations provide assisted living as an option for our residents. Both communities provide full-service dining options providing over 150,000 meals on an annual basis. Also, the Campbell-Stones are enriched by our Chaplain Ministries programs and The Fellowship of John, a benevolence program providing financial assistance to those residents with limited means. These services, among many others, truly set us apart! With over 600 residents living at the two communities, the Campbell-Stones are in the top five list of providers of retirement living in the Atlanta area (Atlanta Business Chronicle - Book of Lists, 2004 - 2005). Each year, over twenty seminarians address the spiritual needs of our residents. The Chaplain Internship programs provide training opportunities through partnerships with Candler School of Theology, the Tri Hospital Clinical Pastoral Education Program (St. Joseph’s, Northside and Scottish Rite), and Peachtree Christian Church. While the Campbell-Stones are sponsored by the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Georgia, our organization is a shared and ecumenical ministry with the majority of our residents and donors coming from different faiths, denominations and spiritual backgrounds. Each year, the Campbell-Stones rely on the support of donors to fulfill the mission and ministry of our programs. Each year, our residents are blessed by the generosity of others. Each year, we ask for this financial support and find that both the giver and the receiver are enriched by the opportunity! For further information, please contact Campbell-Stone Apartments in Buckhead at 404-261-4132 and Campbell-Stone North Apartments in Sandy Springs at 404-256-2612, or visit us at www.campbellstone.org.

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Campbell Stone Apartments, Inc. Campbell Stone Christian Centers, Inc. Campbell Stone North Apartments, Inc.

2005 - 2006 Board of Directors

Executive Personnel Committee President – Jim Howell Secretary – Brad Miller Vice President – Arol Wolford Treasurer – Terry Baker

The Executive Committee includes all appointed Committee Chairs Terms Expiring 2008: Steve Bradley Norcross, Peachtree Corners Christian Church J. Samuel Coolik The Temple Gordon Dalrymple Atlanta, Sandy Springs Christian Church Dr. Paul J. McNeal Second Ponce Baptist Dr. Paula A. Morris Peachtree Road UMC Rev. Neal Ponder Atlanta, Peachtree Christian Church Arol Wolford Dunwoody Community Terms Expiring 2007: Rod Baker Lawrenceville, First Christian Church Terry Baker Tucker, First Atlanta Christian Church Yolanda Brown Ray of Hope Christian Church Jimmy Christopher Antioch Christian Church Reggie Daniel The Rock Karen Mackie Sandy Springs Christian Church Rev. Brad Miller Brookhaven Christian Church ROD BAKER Terms Expiring 2006: Barbara Adair Johnson Ferry Baptist John Busby Peachtree Christian Church Jim Howell Peachtree Christian Church John McIntyre Peachtree Christian Church

Ex-Officio Members: Dr. Ray Miles Christian Church in Georgia Regional Minister Cliff W. Pepper Campbell Stone North Executive Director Pat Pepper Campbell Stone Buckhead Executive Director

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Christian College of Georgia Report to the Regional Assembly 2005

The ministries of the Christian College of Georgia have flour ished this year, impacting the lives of Disciples from across the Region and connecting Disciples with ecumenical partners in ministry. Early each year the College sponsors the “Voices” retreat for clergy in Georgia. In 2005, we welcomed Claudia Highbaugh as our leader for an outstanding retreat with thirty participants. February 7-8, 2006, are the dates for the next “Voices” retreat; Holly McKissick will bring the keynotes. “Voices” is held at Camp Christian Conference Center. Early next Spring, the College will introduce a new event which will emphasize both theological study and ministerial practice. This conference will be held in Atlanta. Educational opportunities are growing as the College organizes its curriculum for persons who desire preparation for ministry. Several curriculum providers have been selected to make instruction available through independent study, distance learning, or cohort sharing facilitated in small-group experiences. On the horizon is the development of an organized series of learning experiences focused on the projected needs of licensed and commissioned ministers, created with definitive Disciples of Christ orientation, and offered in a retreat setting. The Campus Ministry component of the College program continues to expand at the University of Georgia in Athens. Increasing student leadership combined with the appointment of a part-time Minister of Worship and Community helps to advance the connections among students, faculty staff and Athens-area Disciples The ecumenical partnership with the Presbyterian, Lutheran, and Episcopal Campus Ministries affords even greater awareness for UGA students of their place and opportunities within the Church. The Board of Trustees is composed of twelve members representing Disciples of Christ congregations in the Region. Trustees are selected to serve four-year terms, and may succeed themselves upon nomination by the current Board of Trustees. Trustees selected by the Board of Trustees for the Class of 2009 are: James Brewer-Calvert Jim Brooks Sam Nickols, Secretary (These Trustees currently comprise the Class of 2005).

In addition, Francis Shumake was selected to replace Dean Phelps (Class of 2006).

The Trustees are: Class of 2006 Landa Simmons, Vice-Chair Diane Bales Francis Shumake Class of 2007 Hoyt Huff, Chair Janice Johnson Hume

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Angela Pfile Class of 2008 Patrick Chandler Brent Reynolds, Secretary Burdette Wantland Lifetime Jennie Morris Respectfully Submitted, Robert L. Harris, Ph. D. President Christian College of Georgia 303 First Street - PO Box 747 Statham, GA 30666 1-800-235-2496 www.ccofga.org