The next LEAD Retreat to be held at MCC Austin, TX, USA

March 27-29, 2020

Over the last two years, MCC of Austin at Freedom Oaks, TX, US, has been setting aside monies on a monthly basis to fund up to 18 participants a year to complete the LEAD program.  These funds will be available for the cohorts of the next LEAD retreat, US LEAD 12, March 27-29, 2020. The funds will pay for registration for the LEAD retreat (normally $350) at MCC Austin. The church will also provide housing and meals for participants during the retreat. Retreat participants will only need to pay for their travel, plus a $50 matriculation fee. In addition, all online courses that are required or are electives for completion of the LEAD program will be paid for by MCC Austin (a $600 value).  Also, the LEAD scholarship fund, The Judy Dale Scholarship for Lay Leadership, may be used to assist with other fees associated with course work or events that are necessary to the complete the LEAD certificate requirements.  The scholarship application form can be found here.

Rev. Karen Thompson of MCC Austin noted MCC Austin has benefited greatly from the Office of Formation and Leadership Development’s LEAD program.  Because of participation in and completion of the LEAD program by several of MCC Austin’s lay leaders, the church’s ministries have grown, and the spirituality of the congregation has deepened.  Because MCC Austin believes so strongly in this program, and in the importance of empowered and equipped lay leaders for local churches, MCC Austin has committed to financially supporting this retreat.

The first deadline for applications is September 16,^, 2019 and applicants will be notified whether they have been accepted into the program by September 30, 2019.  After that date, applications will be processed monthly until February 15, 2020, or until 18 applicants have been admitted to the Retreat being held March 27-29, 2020.  Applications are available here.