2008 Church Secretaries Retreat

August 10-12, 2008

With Thelma Castor

 This retreat is designed especially for secretaries and others who do the office work in the local church.  The retreat begins with dinner at 5:30 on Sunday, August 10, 2008, and continues through lunch, Tuesday, August 12, 2008.

Church Secretaries will enjoy this  workshop which is meant to be both relaxing and informing, while we get to know “ourselves.”  We will learn who we are, how to identify others, and how to best work together.  The church secretary is a vital part of the local church.  We represent our church in this position, and how we interact with others reflects that connection.

“But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”  (Matthew 12:36)

     Confidentiality is an area that cannot be compromised.  As representatives of our churches we work to build and maintain the trust of our church community, so that at the end of the day we can acknowledge the words:

 “Well done, good and faithful servant!”  (Matthew 25:21a)

     As in past years, the Secretaries workshop will include a ‘Moonlight Tea’ on the Manor patio after the Monday evening session.  Plan to bring your favorite tea cup.

Thelma Castor, of the Butler District, will be leading our Secretaries Workshop this year.  Thelma has served as the Butler District Secretary/Administrative assistant since 1994.  She has had the pleasure of assisting three District Superintendents.  In 2005, she expanded her work as she took on a new role as the Executive Secretary to the Cabinet.  In this role she coordinates the District Offices.

     Thelma’s personal mission statement clearly states her desire and her calling to be a servant leader:

To be a disciple for Jesus Christ. 

To be a leader-- and to know when to follow. 

To be a “servant” for Christ to those who call upon me to do His work.

“I have always considered my work in the district a ministry, not just a job. I love this work – and the people of the United Methodist Church.  It gives me great joy to be a part of this wonderful Butler District Team.”  (Thelma Castor)

     Thelma and her husband Bill live in Rochester, PA.  They have two grown children, Christopher and Joss Lynn. 

Cost:

Olmsted Manor Retreat Center

PO Box 8, Ludlow, PA 16333
(814) 945-6512

info@olmstedmanor.org