Elizabeth City District of the UMC

Elizabeth City District Lay Rally & EXPO—Sunday February 26, 2012

Greetings in the name of Christ! We are writing you to give you details of the upcoming District Lay Rally and EXPO that is scheduled for Sunday, February 26, 2012, at First United Methodist Church in Elizabeth City. We are also asking your support in publicizing this event in your churches. We encourage you to involve the lay leadership of your churches to assist you in getting the message out to your congregations.

The EXPO will be held in the Asbury Room and Fellowship Hall of the church beginning at 3:00 PM (Doors will actually open at 2:45 PM to accommodate early arrivals.). The EXPO is continued this year because of the positive feedback given about last year’s initial event. The EXPO has been designed by the District Board of Laity and the District Ministry Team as a means of supporting our denomination’s mission of “making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.” The goal of the EXPO is to highlight, for both laity and clergy, programs and ministries that are making a positive difference in the lives of church members, their surrounding communities, and beyond. We hope that “seeds will be planted” and that those who attend will return home inspired to replicate some of the ministries and programs they have observed or have been inspired to start up ministries of their own.

Our Lay Rally is a long-standing tradition in our district. In response to suggestions and feedback from both clergy and laity, the Lay Rally, which begins at 4:00 PM, has been designed to appeal to a broad range of laity—from children to senior citizens. Bishop Hope Morgan Ward, Resident Bishop of the Mississippi Conference and a native of Gates County, will preach our sermon. In addition to inspired preaching, many avenues to worship involving youth and adults will be featured. A special offering to support district laity initiatives will be received. Scouts from our district will serve as ushers for the Lay Rally. Nursery service will be provided. If you have questions about any of the details of the Lay Rally and EXPO, please contact either of us. John’s contact information is jguard@mchsi.com or (252) 482-4733.

In addition to your helping get the word out and encouraging attendance at the District Lay Rally and EXPO, we ask that you join us in praying that God will use this event to strengthen the churches in our district. We pray that God will continue to bless and guide each of you as you serve your churches in His name.

— John Guard, District Lay Leader