Blackstone Conference and Retreat Center

The Birdsong Foundation has awarded Blackstone Conference and Retreat Center: Virginia United Methodist Assembly Center a $20,000 grant to assist in stabilization of the Assembly Center.  This recent gift was preceded by another gift of equal amount given in 2011.

“We are deeply grateful for the recent contributions from the Birdsong Foundation, as they are evidence of the foundation’s commitment to a vibrant Assembly Center for members of the Virginia United Methodist Conference and beyond,” said Executive Director Samuel A. McCracken.  “Such generosity to the Assembly Center greatly aids our progress as we work to ensure a financially stronger future.”

Originally started as a farm supply store in 1914, Birdsong Peanuts has become a world leader in the peanut industry.  The company shells raw peanuts (purchased from peanut farmers) and markets them to customers throughout the world. Birdsong Peanuts operates plants in Georgia, Texas and Virginia and supplies manufacturers both domestically and internationally.

The Virginia United Methodist Clergy Spouses’ Retreat was held at BCRC March 15-17.  This year’s Retreat was especially meaningful as the group celebrated 50 years of continuous Virginia UM Clergy Spouse Retreats.

Dr. Jennifer L. Braaten was the keynote speaker assisted by her husband Rev. Conrad A. Braaten.  Dr. Braaten has served as President of Ferrum College since 2002 and was previously President at Midland Lutheran College in Fremont, Nebraska.  She was the first woman president at both institutions.  Rev. Braaten is a retired Lutheran minister.

The Revs. Brandon and Rachel Gilmore, pastors in the Elizabeth River District, served as worship leaders.

Josh Wortham, Music Director and Organist atChesterUnitedMethodistChurchprovided the weekend’s music.

Revs. Ed and Libby Wright conducted the 50^th Anniversary Celebration.

The following parody was written by Libby Wright, Pat Mumford and friends in celebration of the 50^th Anniversary:

“Happiness Is Coming To Blackstone”

Happiness is coming to Blackstone

Isn’t it great to be here today?

Happiness is greeting our old friends

And making new ones – don’t rush away.

Happiness is laughing a lot at the way we live—

And happiness is learning how to give.

Happiness is coming to Blackstone

Just with your good friends, no telephone.

Happiness is learning who’s moving—

Knowing you won’t be packing this year.

Happiness is counting your blessings sent from above.

And Happiness is fun with those you love.

Happiness is morning and evening; daytime and nighttime, too—

For happiness is anyone and anything at all—

That’s loved by you.

Blackstone Conference & Retreat Center’s Board of Directors Invites You to Come:

 Retreat, Renew and Know Christ’s Peace

2012 Board members photographed left to right:  Rev. James M.Tongue, Chair; Jim Bergdoll, Rev. Jeane D. Dunkum, Co-Secretary; Debra A. Broadwater, Dolly Porter, UMW Representative; Catherine Bolton, Co-Secretary; Frances Johnston, Former Board Chair; Samuel A. McCracken, Executive Director; Rev. E. Tommy Herndon, Jr.; Rev. Herndon P. Jeffreys III, Rev. Gerould A. Ward, Jr.; Rev. Burton E. White, Mary R. Jordan, The Honorable Glen A. Huff, Treasurer; Donn L. Lee, Donald L. Myers, Vice-Chair; Rev. Lee B. Sheaffer.  Not Present: Rev. Marc D. Brown, William DuBois, Rev. Robert J. Parks, Jr.; Jennifer Secki Shields