District happenings

Church office workers to visit conference office, meet bishop
Support and administrative staff members from Austin District churches are to travel to  San Antonio April 19 for a behind-the-scenes look at the Southwest Texas Conference office. We will meet Bishop Joel N. Martinez and the conference staff, review some district and conference forms, and have a time for questions.
Administrative staff members from the Corpus Christi District will join us there, so we will get a chance to meet and greet our counterparts from another district. This trip is a great opportunity to be a part of the connectional system.
If you want to carpool, meet at the District Office at 9 a.m. for a 9:15 departure. The meeting is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m, so the group should return to Austin around 3:30 p.m. Lunch will be provided. Please contact Jill Barre in the District Office at (512) 444-1983 or jill@umcad.org if you plan to attend.
Our next regular meeting is set for Thursday, May 5, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Tarrytown UMC. The Rev. David Minnich, associate pastor, Bethany UMC,  is to present an abbreviated version of “Partners in Ministry,” which will address conflict resolution and boundary setting. Bring a brown bag lunch.

Campers, counselors needed
Come join 100 campers in the Austin District who have completed 3rd, 4th or 5th grades for fellowship and fun as we look at ways that God Calls Us to Peace.
Camp will be June 5 through 8 at Mount Wesley, Kerrville. Cost is $155.
Registration forms have been mailed to all district churches. This camp fills up quickly; sign up soon!
 We are looking for 30 adult counselors to lead family groups, be in the cabins with the campers, and lead crafts and recreation. If you are interested or know someone who might be, please call Beth Seward at (512) 442-9444. A background check will be conducted on all adults who apply to be a counselor.

Children’s issues top agenda
Since April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Amos Commission at Manchaca UMC is sponsoring a program that will address some issues facing children.
The program will take place Sunday, April 24, at 7 p.m. in the sanctuary of Manchaca UMC.
Speakers from CASA, the Austin Children’s Shelter and Lifeworks will provide insights about what’s happening with children today. Another speaker will bring up-to-date information on children’s health insurance.