Scouts from across WVa Gathered for Circuit Rider Weekend

Rick Vance (GCUMM) leads morning worship and communion.

500 Scouts and their leaders assembled on the grounds of Jackson’s Mill September 8th-10th for the 29th Annual Circuit Rider weekend, an annual event held in conjunction with the West Virginia Conference United Methodist’s Men’s Gathering.

As the scouts were cooking over the open fire and enjoying spectacular weather the United Methodist Men (UMM) shared in three days of worship, fellowship and learning.  Rev. Dr. Rick Vance, Director of Men’s Ministries for the General Commission on United Methodist Men was the guest speaker for a series of presentations about leadership and the many opportunities men’s groups have to engage and befriend those outside the church walls.

Throughout the weekend the United Methodist Men had opportunities to exchange ideas with one another and to learn through a variety of workshops.  Members of UMM along with Scout leaders and youth walked the prayer labyrinth and UMM and Scout leaders attend workshops about photography, substance abuse prevention, how to grow and cultivate a UMM chapter, and best practices for social media.

One of the highlights of the weekend was the meal Saturday night, served by the UMM along with Bishop Sandra Steiner Ball and Joe Kenaston, Dean of Cabinet.  The scout campfire afterward was great fun with 19 skits and ‘fabulous’ prizes.

Joe Kenaston, as Francis Asbury, sharing the Good News during worship and communion

Sunday morning Joe Kenaston preached in the voice of America’s first Bishop: Francis Asbury.  He shared some of Asbury’s challenges and blessings as Asbury crisscrossed the colonies preaching to America’s earliest pioneers, including those in Western Virginia, not far from where the group was gathered.  Holy Communion was celebrated by Bishop Sandra and Joe Kenaston, with chaplains assistants from three different troops assisting.

Just prior to worship the Torch Award was presented to Don Davis, president of the West Virginia Conference United Methodist Men to give thanks for his leadership.

The Bishop Award of Excellence was given to Pack 6 out of Grafton which is sponsored by Good Shepard UMC.  The youth who picked up the award was the only one present to have earned all four sections of the God and country program.   For more information about the PRAY Discipleship program follow this link

To see more pictures from the Circuit Rider weekend visit WVUMC’s Flickr Page.

For more information about United Methodist Men in West Virginia, visit the WV UMM website or contact: State Men’s President Don Davis at 304 328-5491 or gmaudie@frontiernet.net or Vice President George Hohmann at 304 419-1916 or g.hohmann48@gmail.com.