UAUS 2003 NATIONAL STUDY CONFERENCE
by Tamara Woods
(This article was originally published in the New York/Pennsylvannia Urantia Association's newsletter)

The UAUS 2003 National Study Conference was put on by the Southern Kindred Spirits group and was held at the beautiful Scarritt-Bennett Center in Nashville, TN. The conference overview was given by Jeffrey Wattles who discoursed on Truth, Beauty, and Goodness, and how these divine realities have a dynamic role in the construction of a new and appealing philosophy of living, which a Divine Counselor says is the religious challenge of the age. Jeff's intellectual talent in dissecting a paragraph to bring out the magnitude of importance in the revelator's words was truly inspirational.

The next day commenced with a plenary on Truth given by Tom Burns. We then broke into small study groups for three sessions discussing truth in spiritual experiences, science, and philosophy. It is evident that these topics will require ages of further study, and it was truly a fulfilling experience to hear the many thought provoking ideas of Father loving, truth seeking individuals. The evening ended with a concert performed by talented readers who have composed meaningful music that was delightful to the ears.

Saturday began with a plenary on Beauty given by Eddie King. His speech was amazing and mind opening! It not only gave me a new understanding and appreciation for nature, but for human art and accomplishments as well. Again, we broke into different study groups that afforded us opportunities of intimate contact with others.

The afternoon plenary on Goodness was given by Shirley Pelland, and Rebecca Oswald accompanied her with pleasant piano music that she had composed for the occasion. Our last study group occurred afterwards, and I just wish there had been more time for further discussion.

The evening festivities included an outdoor dance where all musicians displayed their wonderful talents. We all had a dandy time dancing too! We sure must have been attractive because a young man from across the street heard the music, came out, and was absorbed by the youth group. He was also present for all remaining activities the next day. And at the end of the show, we were all singing Amazing Grace, and the security guard was singing with us.

Sunday began with a remembrance time in the chapel, and it was so special being together worshiping our beloved Father in Heaven. We sang a lot too and were fortunate to have the presence of Lee Farmer who can sure play the organ.

Saying goodbye was not as hard as I had expected since we were all so excited for Chicago next year. I strongly encourage attending a conference. It was definitely the best five days of my life so far!