By Brett Hetherington*

The East Ohio Conference Board of Ministry recognizes that a calling into service as a member of the clergy brings with it both exciting and challenging opportunities. On Saturday, September 30 East Ohio Conference clergy gathered at Wanake Camp & Retreat Center for the first of two Fall Clergy Days Apart to take a day to step away from the busyness of their schedules and focus on caring for their well-being.

Participants were treated to a day that included worship through music, hiking, spiritual direction, sharing stories, opportunities for massage, community building, and more. Connectional Ministries office Missions & Community Engagement Director Rev. Kathy Dickriede welcomed clergy and invited them to see the day as an opportunity to simply be themselves, taking a break from serving in their role as church pastor or district superintendent or even talking about it.

The second Fall Clergy Day Apart is Wednesday, October 4. Again, it will be hosted at Wanake Camp & Retreat Center beginning at 9:30 a.m.

The Conference Communications team would like to share other stories that highlight ways that each of us is answering the call of Bishop Tracy S. Malone to reach out to our communities in creative ways. Please e-mail your ministry story to EOC Executive Director of Communications Rick Wolcott at wolcott@eocumc.com.

*Brett Hetherington is the Communications specialist for the East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church.