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An Occasional Word

Published: 5/21/2008

Dear Friends:

There is a new activity scheduled for Annual Conference this year – the first annual Holy Healthy UMC Walk/Run.  The event begins at 6:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 10^th.  The full course is 5 kilometers (why "kilometers"?).   The course is in the form of a "figure eight," so it will be easy for those who wish to do only half to arrive at the beginning after 2.5 kilometers (why "kilometers" ?). 

One of our conference strategic initiatives is about creating a healthy life-style.  I know that some are prevented by health from participating in this kind of activity.  HOWEVER, if I can get my act together at that hour, I expect many of the preachers and many of the lay delegates to do the same.  This is not a race, just a simple little walk that will awaken our bodies and freshen our spirits for the new day.

The 5K Walk/Run (why "kilometers"?) is not the only Holy Healthy Activity at Annual conference.  Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare will be providing a free health screening during annual conference on Monday and Tuesday.  They will provide cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure checks for free.  Their booth will be in the display area.  Let me strongly encourage you to take advantage of this service.  

We are also privileged to have with us Bishop Max Whitfield, resident Bishop of the Northwest Texas / New Mexico Episcopal Area as our conference preacher.  Bishop Whitfield is a native to Arkansas and really needs no introduction to the laity and clergy of this annual conference.  I can say from personal experience that he and Valerie have provided exemplary, challenging, and courageous leadership to and for the Northwest Texas/New Mexico Area.  I am personally pleased to have him here for the entire conference.  He and Valerie are special friends to Karen and me and to all of us in Arkansas.

We are going to have great preaching, healthy bodies, and wonderful fellowship at Conference.  I look forward to seeing you there.

Faithfully,

Charles Crutchfield