Leader's Retreat Minutes (9.17.25)

                                           

                                                                 9/17/ 25 Leader's retreat


Patten UMC Leadership Retreat Minutes
Date: September 17, 2025
Location: Terry & Ted’s House
Attendees: Pastor Joyce, Ross, Penny, Rick, Sarah, Jeannie, Jean, Chrissy, Ted, Terry, and Denise

1. Opening

Pastor Joyce opened with prayer and thanksgiving. Each person shared about their ministry and hopes for the coming season.

2. Food Pantry Ministry

The Portland Catholic Church continues sending food for about 80 families. Volunteers provide food, prayer, and emotional support—many receivers say “Amen.” The ministry blesses both givers and receivers.

3. Children and Youth

Thanks to all Sunday School and after-school teachers. With more children attending (Cadence, Barbara’s granddaughter, Lila’s group), ideas included age divisions, skits, and art. One youth plans baptism and acolyte training. Audrey and others have returned—praise God!

4. United Women in Faith

New visitors are joining, including women from other churches. The group builds strong relationships and community ties. Appreciation to Sarah and all members for their service.

5. Bible Studies and Small Groups

Ongoing studies on Sundays and Thursdays continue to help members grow as disciples. New ideas: story-sharing, movie nights, and outdoor fellowship. Everyone agreed on the value of connection in different ways.

6. Church Mission and Vision

The 2003 mission statement was reviewed. Members agreed it remains true but could be simplified into three key points. Pastor Joyce will draft a short version for bulletins and congregational reading.

7. Personal and Spiritual Growth

Members shared ways they stay close to God—daily devotions, prayer, The Upper Room, and Penny’s writings. Encouragement to continue growing in faith.

8. Training and Resources

Discussed training needs in disability awareness, cross-cultural ministry, addiction recovery, and digital literacy. Plans for digital help sessions for older members and youth smartphone safety.

9. Cooperative Parish Ministry

The cluster churches continue to work well together—recent events include the women’s retreat, VBS, and combined worship. The next Dream Team meeting is October 3 at Katahdin Woods and Waters (Tikegabimuk). A Fall Fellowship Outing may follow (1–2:30 PM).

10. Community Events

Hunters’ Breakfast proposed by Ross for Saturday, November 1, 6–10 AM. Two shifts suggested. Volunteers: Ross, Ainsley, Angel, and others. Final decision at the next Council meeting.

11. Upcoming Meetings

  • Administrative Council: Sunday, October 19 (Laity Sunday) after worship
  • Nominations due: December 1
  • Reports: Jeannie and Sarah will help with online submissions

12. Attendance and Worship

Average weekly attendance: 38–40. Many returning and new attendees—praise God! Ushers and greeters will continue to record attendance.

13. Announcements and Testimonies

Jeannie will share testimony this Sunday. Jean may share about the Food Pantry ministry later.

14. Closing

Retreat ended with prayer and thanksgiving for God’s blessings and all who serve.

 


Mission Statement

Adopted on February 1, 2003

 

Our mission is to reach out to all people, wherever they are, and receive them as they are.
We help each person discover and grow in a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
We seek to understand and live in God’s grace and unconditional love, freely given to all.

 

Our purpose is to encourage all who follow Christ to take part in the ministry of the church.
We strive to nurture and equip one another through discipleship so that we may go into our community and beyond— to be the church, the living body of Christ in the world.

 

 

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