We are Christ-centered Friends who equip and encourage all people
to respond to God's love and transforming Spirit.

Area Gathering for Southern Oregon Friends Churches

The area gathering for southern Oregon was held at the Klamath Falls Friends Church on Saturday, September 29, 2007. The gathering opened with a welcome by Joe Colfax of Talent. Ken and Jo Magee of Klamath Falls led everyone in song, with Jo playing the piano beautifully to accompany all of the voices. Then Ken asked for people's stories about what music means to them with some specific examples. He started things off with a couple of stories of his own. Others soon followed and as they talked about specific songs, he made a note of them so that when the stories were done, those songs could be sung.

........

Following the music, there was a short break so people could stretch, get some coffee and mingle a little. Then everyone gathered for a discussion about small groups and what they can offer. Lynn Clouser Holt, who is the spiritual formation pastor at North Valley Friends, facilitated the discussion. She provided interesting ways to think about small groups and how they can be used to benefit the individuals who make up the small groups, and also how small groups can be used to get people doing God's work beyond the four walls of the church. She gave concrete examples and brought much information to share with people.

..

There was a break for a delicious lunch, which again allowed people to mingle and get to know those from other churches. There was much talking and laughter. Then it was back upstairs for the afternoon discussion, led by Dan McCracken of Barclay Press. His topic was communication. He wanted participants to think about how and why they communicate and how to make communication more effective, especially in the realm of communicating our faith with others. He also brought along much information to share with people.

Finally, the day ended with a short business meeting during which plans were made for the next meeting. That will be held on May 24 at Sprague River. It was a very nice day with lots of discussion and plenty to think about.