Signal Crest United Methodist Church is offering an opportunity for people to discover their spiritual gifts, as well as connecting them with the form of service that best utilizes their unique gifts. The fourth Connect at Crest course, open only to women, will meet for six weeks in the church library beginning June 24 at 10 a.m.
“Depending on where each person is in their spiritual maturity, each person will be able to determine what their spiritual gifts are based on their personality profile and ministry passions,” said Connect instructor Laura Bowling, who leads participants in exploring their spiritual gifts through interactive exercises. “They will be able to find a place of service where they can make a difference.”
She said the class is ideal for new members who are trying to find their place within the church, as well as to provide affirmation to longtime members that they are using their gifts in the most effective way.
Once the course is over, Bowling said she meets with each participant individually to connect them with a service within the church utilizing their spiritual gifts.
“It’s a complete, all-encompassing program,” said Bowling. “The tools and assessments are very well done.”
Vicki Williamson, a Signal Crest member for six years, is a past participant in the course.
“I’ve been a Christian all my adult life and have been involved with the church, but I didn’t feel like I knew what I was especially equipped to do,” she said. “I had read a book about spiritual gifts before, but the class was different because I had the feedback of a teacher.”
She said the surveys she had others fill out about her as part of the course were very helpful in finding her gifts, which she determined to be helping and encouraging others, especially in times of grief.
Williamson used her gift by holding a monthlong grief support group at the church, and continues to participate in other compassion- and grief-related volunteer efforts such as helping set up food for families at funerals.
For those who are unable to attend this session, another Connect at Crest course will be held in the fall and will be open to both men and women, said Bowling.