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August 2016 Newsletter
Summer around the Mission Center

Reunion: Of Water & Spirit at Camp Woodland Hills

Despite the heat, rain, and severe thunderstorms, Reunion 2016 was a wonderful and uplifting experience. We had a great turnout considering we had a holiday in the middle. Reunion directors, Allen and Janine Williston, really appreciate all those who helped make this year such a meaningful experience. It was such a blessing having Apostle Janne' Grover and Outreach International Chief Operating Officer, Orval Fisher, sharing with us. Please put Reunion 2017 (June 9-15) on your calendar, and we hope to see you there! 

Check out pictures from Reunion on Flickr here !


Primary and Junior Camp at Camp Woodland Hills

This year the theme for camp was Cosmic Quest! The children had a great time learning about outer space and God. Fifty campers and 26 staff attended, and even through the extreme heat, were able to keep smiling. Space related activities included a unisphere demo from the St. Louis Science Center, telescope viewing, Astronomy 101 class, and even some rocket launching. Our theme class focused on David's story and Psalms and explored the daily themes of God is So Big, God is Light, and God is Forever Faithful. The older children even learned about spiritual practices in the evenings S.P.A.C.E. (Spiritual Practices Allow Campers to Explore) groups. It was definitely a spirit filled few days on the grounds of Camp Woodland Hills.

Check out pictures from camp on Flickr here!




Spectacular at Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa

Gateway Mission Center had 18 youth attend this year, and 6 staff members. They participated and represented the Mission Center very well. There were gold medals, blue ribbons, and red ribbons won by almost every participant.  It was so awesome to see our youth branch out, try new things, accept leadership roles, learn new skills, make many new friends, forge new bonds, and deepen their relationship with our Lord and Savior. They come away worn out, but extremely happy they came. Remember to ask the youth about their experiences, and be willing to listen to their stories. Read more of youth minister Laurie Decker's SPEC 2016 testimony online!

Check out pictures from SPEC on Flickr here
Fall Priesthood Gathering
Independence, Missouri

Priesthood members of Central Mission Field are invited to come together in a unique  opportunity to create intentional relationships, strengthen ministerial skills, and connect
with others in support of our collective call to ministry. This event will take place from September 23 - September 24 at the Temple and Auditorium. More information about the schedule and how to register can be found online here

Pastor/PLT Retreat
Camp Woodland Hills

Congregation pastors and leadership teams are encouraged to register now for the upcoming retreat October 7 - October 9 at Camp Woodland Hills . Suggested donation is $50. Registration forms can be found online here.  

Women's Retreat
Camp Woodland Hills

Women's Retreat is being held October 21 - October 23 at Camp Woodland Hills. Invite a friend to join you for a weekend focused on "Get in Tune: Harmonize Your Life" with our guest minister Apostle Janne Grover. More information on how to register can be found online here.

Mission Center Conference
Fairview Road Congregation - Columbia, MO

Fall Mission Center Conference will be Saturday, November 12 at the Fairview Road Congregation in Columbia, Missouri. The time is still TBD. Please be aware this date is different than originally scheduled. 

Congregation Requests

Jefferson City is seeking a gently used Kawai or Yamaha grand piano that is in good condition and has been tuned yearly. If you can refer the congregation to someone looking to re-home theirs, please call Sharon Orey at 573-489-0016. 

Rolla is looking for a sound system amplifier. If your congregation has one that is looking for a new home, please contact Dave Wetteroff at [email protected].

Bel-Nor is hosting their annual Free Yard Sale on October 9th. They are asking for donations Ask your friends and neighbors too! They will accept just about anything, but children's clothing, toys and household items (pots and pans, small appliances, dishes, etc) are especially needed. Contact Pastor Christine Grass at [email protected] for more information. 

Gateway Contribution Report
Amy Hoerchler
Gateway Mission Center Financial Officer

Gateway's giving to World Mission Tithes combined with Disciples generosity all over the world has allowed Community of Christ as a whole to spread Christ's mission over the globe! Gateway congregations also supported the Mission Center with pledges made at the end of 2015. To see a list of specific items supported by your generosity, read the contribution report found online here

World Conference Recap
Independence, Missouri

Section 165 Added to Doctrine and Covenants
On Monday, June 6, the conference delegates voted to include the words of counsel as the newest section in the D&C. You can read the new scripture online and printed copies are being produced as inserts.

YouTube Playlist
There are 40+ videos posted on the CofChrist YouTube channel from various events during World Conference. Be sure to check out International Peace Award recipient Leymah Gbowee's keynote and President Veazey's closing sermon

Photos on Flickr
There were about 10 extremely-gifted volunteer photographers capturing big and small moments all around the complex. Check out some of their best work in our World Conference photo albums housed on our Flickr page. No account needed to view the photos!

"Official Actions of the 2016 World Conference" can be found here!

New, online giving program

Giving is safe, easy, and flexible with e-Tithing! You can give on your desktop computer, tablet, and mobile device. Make one-time and recurring contributions by bank withdrawal, and with credit and debit cards. When you set-up a recurring contribution, you decide when giving starts and the frequency of recurrence (weekly, every two weeks, bimonthly, or monthly). Read the FAQ to learn more about e-Tithing or contact your Congregational Financial Officer or Amy Hoerchler at [email protected] for more information.

Make sure to like the Gateway Mission Center Page on Facebook for the most up to date information!