DBOM – Conversation

The following are excerps from a series of emails discussing Prison Ministries and the UMM’s Prison Ministries Advocate, the Disciple Bible Outreach Ministry.  This is an attempt to share information with our Fellowships as it comes available……..much more to come!

“We are having a session on Prison Ministry.  It will be #20.  While we have done it for the last half dozen years it did not get listed in the on-line Lay Servants Academy brochure but it is supposed to be added.  Go to the VA conference site and click on the Lay Servants Academy. It is a pretty in depth view of all phase and would be good for the men.  As I mentioned to Gene, I have taught a 2 hour segment covering the highlights and have done 10 minute highlights of the Kairos program.  It is really powerful seeing the power of Gods love.  We are forming a team now for Sussex and would love to have you join us.”

 - Jim Templeton

 ”If we can get folks identified, attempt to get them through an Emmaus walk this year, possible training at the Lay Speaking Academy, then DBOM training in August 2011, and get a handle on the approval process (background checks, etc), we could have a “graduating class” if you will, by our Fall Spiritual Retreat time.  Could even recognize these men in a graduation ceremony or induction ceremony if you will.  Recognition is something we all put off doing, and once in a while it is nice to stop and say “thanks for all you are doing”, this might be one way to do that.  Just a thought.”

“I too really want our men to have the opportunity to get involved (hands on) themselves and this sounds like a prime opportunity to do just that.  I appreciate all y’all sharing this info with me, as the smarter I can get the better I will be able to talk to others about what’s involved, and how to get involved.”

- Blessings, Herb Drake WDUMM President

 ”Just keep in mind the volunteers for DBOM do not necessarily need to attend the Walk to Emmaus or the Lay Servants Academy.  It would be nice, but not a prerequisite.  I think those venues are an excellent place to recruit volunteers.  I just don’t want people to be overwhelmed.”

 -Gene Mims, VA Conference Prison Ministries Advocate

 ”Thanks for keeping me in the loop on your e-mails.  I am excited about the DBOM movement in VA.  As Jim said, I will be conducting DISCIPLE Bible Study training and DBOM Outreach Training for all VA prison Chaplains.  These trainings are set for March 14, 15 and 16 at three separate DOC training centers in VA.  The DBOM training and certification for VA DBOM volunteers is set for September 17 at the Conference Center in Glen Allen.  It is a good idea to start presenting the program and to begin the recruitment process at upcoming events such as the Lay Academy etc. ”

 -In Christ, Mark Hicks, DBOM, National

Prayer Advocate – Winchester District UMM

UMMen of Winchester District:

 I have been appointed Prayer Advocate for the Winchester District.  Although a concerted effort will be made to promote prayer in the forthcoming year, what better advocates do we need than Jesus telling his disciples they should always pray and not give up (Luke 18:1), and Paul’s letter to the Romans (10:10-12): “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.  Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

 If you haven’t heard or used the word “zeal” in a while, it means intense enthusiasm. Wow, can you imagine having conversation with our Lord with such passion.  Although this message is brief, please know that I believe prayer is essential in our lives.  Whether before meetings, before meals, or before rising each morning, take time to go to God for his blessings, for developing relationships, for lighting your path, for sending His Son.

 May you be faithful in prayer in your walk with Christ!

–Always In His Name,  Charles Browning