The experience of learning with local church secretaries and networking with others in similar office settings provides a broader understanding of the connectional United Methodist Church. Church secretaries learn the functions of district, conference, agency and Episcopal offices, while these various office personnel learn about the many responsibilities of a local church secretary. It is a place to see how all members of the church body are in ministry together.

Why become certified?

Legislation was officially adopted by the 1988 General Conference as follows:  "The General Council on Finance and Administration shall have the authority and responsibility to provide guidance and consultation for continuing education of church secretaries, including establishment of training and certification programs, and to provide assistance to the Professional Association of United Methodist Church Secretaries." (2004 Book of Discipline,       ¶ 807.19)
Certification recognizes your accomplishment of successfully completing professional training at an established school of business.  It enhances your position as a true professional and stimulates the need for continuing education to augment your ministry in the church.

 

CERTIFICATION ELIGIBILITY

Upon successful completion of the Institute, GCFA staff rep. to PAUMCS will review your application.  Following approval, you will be recommended for certification at the GCFA Annual Meeting.
Note: Membership in National PAUMCS required. Request a membership brochure from:
                 Cynthia Haralson
                 Staff Rep. to PAUMCS
                 GCFA, PO Box 340029
                 Nashville, TN 37203-0029
                 866-367-4232  x2386 (toll free)
                 615-369-2374
                 paumcs@gcfa.org

 Class size is limited to 30 participants.  Registrations will be honored in the order in which they are received.

What will it cost?
Registration fee for the 2009 Institute is $315.00*.  This includes course materials, a couple of lunches and dinners, and refreshments. Travel, room, additional meals and any other incidentals are the responsibility of each participant.

The registration fee for the Institute may be paid by personal check, money order or church check Payable to GCFA and mailed to the address on this brochure. Registration fee scholarships for the Institute are available on a limited basis by written request.

Where will I stay?

Arrangements have been made with Emory University for air-conditioned dormitory rooms at $38.00* for singles, per day and $30.00* per person for doubles per day.  If you plan to stay in the dormitory.

An appealing aspect of the Institute is the opportunity for participants to interact with colleagues from churches across the denomination. The sharing of ideas is a valuable complement to the course material. Staying in Emory dormitory rooms promotes camaraderie and friendships.
Hotels are available as an option to contact on your own. When staying in a hotel there will be a $15 commuter charge for the week by Emory.

*Fees & Rates are as of November 2008

COMMENTS FROM THE 2008 INSTITUTE

GRADUATES:
“Each class gave me information I can take to my office and begin to use immediately.”
Connie Thomas, Arkansas AC/Northeast District Office

 “Best return for my money that I’ve every received (in terms of training J). Has given me a new perspective regarding my service to the church. My job is a ministry and a partnership with the Pastor.”

Sherri Fitzgerald, Texas AC/First UMC, Pittsburg

“Very, very informative. This is an awesome self-empowering and career-building program. Feel as though I’ve been given a gift.”
Cindy Lee, South Georgia AC/St Paul UMC

PROGRAM FORMAT

The Program begins Sunday, July 19, 2009 with check-in from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and orientation at 5:00 p.m. program ends approximately at 12:00 Noon on Friday, July 24, 2009. Please do not make plane reservations before 2 p.m. on Friday.

• PAUMCS INSTITUTE PROGRAM
  Registration
  PAUMCS Certification Orientation
  Welcome Dinner

• Understanding Personality (MBTI Assessment),
• Intro to Group Projects
  Taxes and the Church
  Ethics & Confidentiality
  Conflict Resolution
  Polity of the Church
  Church  Diversity
  Free Afternoon

• Dollars and Cents of
• Office Management
  Working Effectively in Groups and Teams
  Class Photograph
  Graduation Dinner

• Small Group Presentations of
• Special Projects
  Program Wrap-up