As news about the coronavirus continued to unfold, I learned a lot.I learned there are many prayers to pray and songs to sing while washing my hands thoroughly for 20 seconds.|I learned I touch my face too much.I learned some people buy more toilet paper than they need.I learned a new phrase – social distancing….Read More »
A Word from DS Teresa Welborn – 3/13/20
As we follow news about the COVID-19 virus, we invite you to continue monitoring guidelines from health officials and the city of Austin. To the clergy and churches of the Capital District UMC: My devotional reading this morning took me to Romans 8:18-25. “We were saved in hope. If we see what we hope for, that isn’t…Read More »
A Word from DS Teresa Welborn – 3/5/2020
We recently hosted Rev. Dr. Joseph Daniels from Emory Fellowship in Washington, D.C. Sharing about his ministry overseeing a church and an affordable housing project, he had words of challenge and inspiration for us. At that District Professionals meeting, I also shared information about the district’s current apportionment giving. Our overall giving to apportionments in the…Read More »
A Word from DS Teresa Welborn-2/5/2020
Valentine’s Day is coming up and I have to say I’ve never been a big fan of this holiday. During my long years as a single pastor, I enjoyed an Austin music station’s “Anti-Valentine’s Day” show. Even now as a married person, I resist the message that somehow being coupled is the cultural norm and…Read More »
A Word from DS Teresa Welborn- 1/8/2020
Like many elementary schools, the one my daughter attends has a school t-shirt for sale as a way of drumming up school spirit. Each year the t-shirt is designed by students who are invited to submit ideas and drawings. This year’s design was a combined effort – a compilation of a few different submissions including…Read More »
A Word from DS Teresa Welborn – 12/4/19
I’ve always been impressed with people who are able to get out Christmas letters every December. My late father-in-law sent such letters for decades to an ever growing list of relatives and friends and colleagues. I joked that his stamp buying alone must have kept his local Post Office in business. The letter updated everyone…Read More »
A Word from DS Teresa Welborn – 11/6/19
I recently read Susan Beaumont’s latest book, How to Lead When You Don’t Know Where You’re Going: Leading in a Liminal Season. A catchy title, right?! The book is highly relevant and helpful. In April, Ms. Beaumont will present at our annual Clergy Convocation. I highly recommend her book and you won’t want to miss her…Read More »
A Word from DS Teresa Welborn – 10/23/19
Mark your calendars! Sunday, November 10th is Austin Region Justice for Our Neighbors’ (ARJFON) annual gala. Each year, I look forward to this event. Some of you I see each year and are already committed to the work of ARJFON. If you are not aware of ARJFON’s work, I encourage you to learn more about…Read More »