A Brave Place for Spiritual Exploration
The Center of the Ozarks
What is The Center?
The Center of the Ozarks is a Christian Spirituality Center, a brave place for unique spiritual exploration.
ALL who seek to deepen their spiritual lives and interact with Divinity are welcome here. We exist with the simple goal of fostering connection between and among individuals and with the Divine. We offer creative and contemplative worship, spiritual practices, events, and classes rooted in Christian spirituality to nurture mind, body, and spirit.
Regular spiritual direction, retreats, and pilgrimages are also part of The Center’s offerings.
Our Team
Michelle Wicks
Michelle Wicks is the Program Manager of The Center of the Ozarks. Michelle oversees the programming, events, and all connections made through The Center.
Michelle has a love and passion of others. Michelle is a Spiritual Director, and is excited to partner with those naviagting their own spiritual journey in whatever form that takes.
Michelle is excited to teach others about Spiritual Practices, methods of mindfulness, and other creative ways to connect with the Divine in their normal, everyday lives.
Want to meet Michelle? Schedule an appointment at thecenter@kwumc.com or via phone at 417.881-6363.
Karen Hayden
One of the spiritual directors available throughout the Center, Karen has come to love the idea of spiritual direction as being a process — a journey with a companion in God’s presence. Her approach is one of deep listening and non-judgement.
Karen has served as an elder in the United Methodist pastor for over 25 years — solo pastor, associate pastor, college-age minister and a Conference director. Her education includes Millsaps College (BA) and Duke Divinity School (MDiv). She also has a certificate in spiritual direction from the Franciscan Spirituality Center.
Karen is married to Dave Hayden. They have four children by birth and foster adoption. Karen loves to connect with family and friends — especially on a trail, at a labyrinth, watching college basketball or on a croquet green.
Events
Contemplative Worship
Sundays at 5:30 PM
Contemplative Worship is a setting in which we quiet ourselves in order to open our souls to the ministry of God within.
It is one way to hear God’s voice with our hearts. Offering extended times of stillness, Scripture reading, reflection, acoustic music, and Holy Communion in our Chapel.
Please park in the The Center/Atkins Parking lot at the front of the church (closest to the south entrance).
Silent Retreats
Next Retreat: Friday, April 24
Upcoming Retreat: 5/15
A Silent Retreat is a set aside time of quiet prayer and contemplation. You will find opportunities of connecting deeply with the Divine, seeking spiritual renewal and quiet rest.
You may walk through the labyrinth and the beautiful grounds of The Center of The Ozarks. Inside you will find our peaceful chapel and many other comfortable spots. A selection of prayer stations will be set up to help you on your journey.
Spiritual Direction is available during the retreat. When you register for Spiritual Direction, there will be a trained Spiritual Director if you would like someone to walk with you as you discern the voice of the Divine. These Spiritual Direction sessions are one hour long, during the retreat.
The retreat times are 9:00 am – 1:00pm. Lunch is provided with your registration.
Cost Retreat $20, Spiritual Direction $50
For more information, please contact Michelle Wicks at thecenter@kwumc.com.
Young Adult Gathering
Tuesdays at 7:30 pm
Connection – Food – Pickleball
Where: Atkins Charter House – Park in the Atkins/Center parking lot and enter through the Atkins/Center doors on the south side of the building.
The Center of the Ozarks is excited to host for persons 18 – 25 any Tuesday at 7:30 pm.
If you have questions or if you are interested in volunteering at this gathering, please contact Rev. Karen at thecenter@kwumc.com