Willie Bobo-Communication Chair-Little Rock

April 13, 2024 marked the second regional retreat for the COHI South Region since the pandemic. We were thrilled to have the newly ordained Episcopal Bishop for Arkansas, Bishop John Harmon, as our keynote speaker. His presence certainly contributed to our larger-than-expected attendance, and what a joy it was to have him! He wowed the audience with his message explaining "God is not nice. God is kind," and the difference between friendliness and friendship.

His speech was the talk of the community for weeks after the retreat. Along with his speech, Bishop Harmon presided over the Holy Eucharist and Healing and Blessing of the Hands services. The Reverend Greg Schick (St. James UMC) provided inspirational and energetic worship music to start our day, which set the tone for the rest of the retreat which proved to be the wonderful experience we all hoped it would be.