A Safe Place for Spiritual Exploration
The Center of the Ozarks
What is The Center?
The Center of the Ozarks is a Christian Spirituality Center, a safe 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 licensed 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 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 (206) 280-4660.
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.
Child care for children ages birth – 5th grade will be available each night. Please park in the Atkins/The Center Parking lot at the front of the church (closest to the south entrance).
Alternative opportunities – in place of the Contemplative Service, you are invited to join us for the following opportunities on these dates.
3/31 – Sunrise Service – 6:30am, Easter Worship – 9am & 10:30am
4/14 – Mission Possible – 11:30am in the Family Life Center
4/21 – College of the Ozarks Choir – 5:30am in Sanctuary
The Heart
Mondays at 7 PM
The Center of the Ozarks is excited to launch our college-age ministry, dedicated to Spiritual Practices and Worship for persons 18 – 25. The Heart will be held in the former Seattle Roast Coffee building, located at 401 South Ave, Springfield, MO.
If you’re a college-age person, we hope you’ll join us any Monday at 7 PM for connection, spiritual practices, and Worship. If you are interested in volunteering at the Heart, please contact Michelle Wicks at thecenter@kwumc.com.
Spiritual Life Retreat
September 6 – 8
Join us for a weekend of spiritual renewal, connection, and engagement with God.
This retreat, designed for all participants to find spiritual growth opportunities, will include worship, fellowship meals, and reflection.
Participants will be treated to dynamic speakers, engaging music, and unique, interactive experiences.
For those coming from out of town, housing options are available.
Spiritual Life Retreats are designed for participants to connect with God and others and leave renewed and ready to engage in the world with hope.
Women’s Retreat
November 8 – 9
Gathering with women of all ages and stages of life for a weekend of connection, empowerment, and celebration.
This women’s retreat is an unconventional weekend of crafts, speakers, music, and small group engagement. Instead of discussing how beautiful you are, how to be a good wife or mom, or how to be a good woman, our speakers will dive deep.
Join us for a weekend of empowerment, hope, and authenticity.