Holston Conference of the United Methodist Church

Church secretaries ... the first glimpse of Jesus

October 3, 2011

On Friday, I visited with the 57 women who attended the Holston Conference Secretaries Association annual meeting and retreat. This year, it was held at Music Road Hotel in Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

Secretaries for our local churches, districts and conference offices are often unsung heroines within our ministries. They provide excellent support for our leaders, staff, volunteers, and members. In addition, they are the voices and faces that many of our new persons meet first when they come to the church -- a reassuring presence to those whose contact the church in distress or need. 

Indeed, our church secretaries are often the first glimpse of Jesus for people who call or visit our ministry offices. 

I thoroughly enjoyed being the preacher and celebrant for the opening worship for these servants. They are fun to be with ... a witty, loving and supportive fellowship.



Photo -- Bishop James Swanson visits with district administrative assistants (left to right): Dixie Miller, Morristown; Jamie Boone, Tazewell; Susan Smith, Kingsport; Betty Barton, Johnson City; Lori Sluder, bishop's secretary; Phyllis Gilman, Wytheville; Nichelle Evans, Oak Ridge; Melissa Oakes, Chattanooga; and Mary Hawkins, Knoxville.

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