Dear Friends,
One of my favorite parts of being a bishop is spending time each fall in District Days. My heart is encouraged as I hear and see how God is at work in our local churches, clergy, and laity.
The emphasis of this year’s District Days is “Hope Abounds.” There are many reasons for the hope that springs up in my heart about the Holston Conference of The United Methodist Church, including a deep gratitude for you and your ministry.
Each District Superintendent and Leadership Team has set a schedule for their District Day. Though the specifics vary, the goals are the same.
- First, various groups within the District will dialogue with Conference leadership about Holston’s vision, mission and strategies. This serves a twofold purpose of updating clergy and laity on the Conference’s direction while simultaneously receiving input that shapes our plans.
- Secondly, District Days allow us to gather, fellowship, and worship together. This has been important since the first century church as demonstrated by the author of Hebrews: “And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:24-25) Though often referenced in connection with emphases like the Holston Conference’s 2023 “Worship Together” theme and the service that will conclude several of the District Days, this passage is also applicable to study, planning, and fellowship gatherings.
The 2023 District Days calendar is below. The specific schedule for each District Day is available through the District Offices.
| September 19 |
Hiwassee |
| October 2 |
Appalachian/Three Rivers |
| October 17 |
Smoky Mountain/Tennessee Valley |
| October 30 |
New River |
| November 27 |
Scenic South |
| November 28 |
Mountain View |
| November 29 |
Clinch Mountain |
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I look forward to seeing many of you at our 2023 Fall District Days as we focus on the hope that abounds in our lives and denomination as followers of Jesus Christ. As always, it is a joy to serve as your bishop.
For more information on District Day contact your district office.
Blessings,
Debra Wallace-Padgett
Resident Bishop
Holston and North Alabama Conferences |
