The Corbin District Lay Speakers came together at Somerset First United Methodist Church on March 3rd and 4th, 2006. The Basic Course taught by Henry Hull of Burnett Church along with his son, David Hull, had 16 new persons attending. They learned the basic principles of lay speaking and why the Methodist Church does what it does best.

The Advanced course was on the book "Pray the Price" by Dr. Terry Teykl. This class had approximately 18 persons attending who were taught by Dr. Bill Caudill, and Mrs. Karen Coldiron, of Somerset First United Methodist Church, and Dr. Glenn Blackburn of Science Hill. They spoke and concentrated on how prayer needs to be a primary focus in our lives and how to make this happen. Prayer stations were stationed throughout the church for people to visit and pray. They discussed various programs available to take back to their respective churches and implement.

The Certified Lay Speakers are persons who are eligible to travel between churches, to host morning worship for the pastor's in their absence. They are there to help the pastor in what ever tasks need done, with their direction. If a pastor needs to be away from the pulpit for any reason, these are the people you can call on to help.

These classes came together for fun, food and fellowship. Our meals were prepared and served by our own Certified Lay Speaking Class Chiefs, Rick and Debbie Long.

Classes are held each spring and are open to anyone interested in learning more about our church and how you can help. We strongly encourage youth to participate in lay speaking, because it helps them understand the workings of their church, as they study the discipline.

Each year it is held in different locations to allow for more people to attend. So watch for the announcement again in early 2007 for your chance to attend this wonderful weekend class.

We would like to say a special thank you to Tom Nichols for making the beautiful plaques which were used as awards given to: Jacqueline Coldiron, Arnold Hammons, Bill Hill, Scott Whittle, Lester Randolph, Wayne Cole, Dr. Bill Caudill, Dr. Glenn Blackburn, Henry Hull, Karen Coldiron, Rick Long, Debbie Long and Dr.Terry Terry Faris, Corbin District Superintendent.

Blessings,

Bernard Shelton, Corbin District Lay Speaker Director
Debbie Long, Corbin District Assistant Director

2006 Lay Speakers Conference Information