We United Methodist are big supporters of education and long ago captured the phrase: “Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors”. This fits well with a quote from Malcolm S. Forbes: “The purpose of education is to replace an empty mind with an open one.” Edmond First has a long tradition of stressing faith and secular education with the understanding that God has created us and empowers us to learn, grow, change and transform ourselves and the world. This is why learning takes place in Edmond First throughout the week, not just on Sunday.

Centerpoint continues on Wednesday with the tasty 5:15 p.m. meal, children’s programs and our three 6 p.m. course offerings. The last two sessions for the below three courses will be February 8 and 15:

• Published author Dr. Earlene Smith will teach her recently released book: Speaking Character—Mission. Studies reveal that the three socioeconomic cultures (poverty, middle class and wealth) speak same words but have different meanings. This leads to misunderstandings that can eliminate meaningful communication. The fascinating phenomenon and solutions to the dilemma will be explored.
• Hope for the Computer Challenged. Montana Dugger (or Joe Gorman if Montana ends up welcoming returning Oklahoma troops from Afghanistan) will teach how to use Facebook, how to do e-mails, Word, PowerPoint and Excel. If you have been “computer challenged” and afraid to “step out”, this is your chance to explore and learn new things that will change your life.
• A Sure Foundation: Bringing Together the Story of the United Methodist Church, Your Story, and the Story of Your Country! Instructor Rev. Dr. Joe Davis will teach and facilitate your discussion of historical and spiritual insight offered by Bishop William Willimon’s book This We believe and Richard P. Heitzenrater’s Wesley and the People Called Methodists. You will come out with a new understanding of who you are and the importance of your historical, religious and spiritual story—which must be told!

We have room for more in each of the classes and you are welcome to sign up for one of the classes or just show up. Please sign up in the Christian Activity Center if you would like to help with Wednesday night Centerpoint desserts or kitchen clean-up.

Upcoming Centerpoint courses beginning February 29, 2012 will include: “Guiding Your Child’s Heart” Social Security Issues Reverse Mortgages Suicide Prevention

May we thank God for the opportunity to learn and grow every day.

Blessings to you, Don Vaught