During 2000, the Center for Ministry in Small Churches had a
successful year expanding its programs and continuing its contact with
sponsoring dioceses. The Ven. Michael Doty has been visiting the small
congregations in the diocese both to help the CMSC discover the talents
that are already available in each congregation, and to see what the
needs are in each. As a result of this work, the CMSC will be able to
design programs that are specifically directed to the interests of East
Tennessee. This year's Annual Gathering, held October 9-11, brought
together clergy and laity from many area dioceses. The theme was "Alternative
Models of Ministry." Keynote speaker, Ms. LaDonna Wind, and chaplain,
the Rt. Rev. John Smith, both presented workshops as did teams from
congregations that are using various ministry models. Our Gathering
in 2001 will be November 8-10. The theme will be "Call to Common
Mission." The keynote speaker will be The Rev. Kent Litchfield
from the Diocese of Kentucky, who had worked extensively in this field.
CMSC staff is available for workshops and consultations as well as clericus
or mission area gatherings. Please call us if you would like to have
CMSC present at your meetings. The CMSC publishes a Small-Church
Newsletter and a ministry/preaching journal, Tuesday Morning.
Respectfully submitted by the Rev. Susanna Metz