by Kendall & Cathy Thomas.
In simplistic terms, to connect is to join together; unite. Humanity has been created in the image of God with the innate need to connect. There are many levels of connection. In marriage it is the two becoming one flesh and fulfilling a destiny together. In UME terms it means a couple attending a Weekend, engaging, and connecting with each other and God.
Anyone dealing in real estate recognizes this statement; “Location, location, location". Connection in UME terms are Invite, connect, engage and serve. To take advantage of location is to be in the right place at the right time. The first level of connection is when a couple is invited to attend a UME Weekend. Couples go on Weekends for many different reasons. They may have a good marriage and simply want a better marriage or, may be having trouble talking and sharing with each other. They are looking for ways to improve their communication. Still others may be struggling to keep their marriage together. Whatever the reason, they have decided to attend a UME Weekend.
From the moment the couple registers for the Weekend, they are being introduced to Community through a Welcome letter, What to Expect brochure, and usually a phone call from the Community Registration Couple.
The second level of connection happens on Friday night as they join with other Weekend couples, experience conversation with a few Community couples and are introduced to the Team Couples by the Community Executive Couple. The first act of engagement happens when they share their spouse’s most endearing quality. The Team Couple’s lovingly encourage the couples to trust the process and participate in the Weekend.
The third level of connection is when the couple is invited to become a part of the local Community of caring couples by attending Core and serving in their UME Community. This is the highest level of connection to God’s heart for marriages beginning in their home, family, church and local UME Community which in turn impacts the world.
The bottom line is we can trust the Holy Spirit to work with us and the Weekend couples to connect on every level. A couple on the Weekend is at the right place at the right time. Because of our innate need to connect, we can count on the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit to connect us to others.
Kendall and Cathy Thomas
Clergy Executive Couple
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