Church Forward:
Equipped for the journey ahead

Worship leaders: (from left) Serge Volpe, Lynn Volpe and Debbie Coleman.

SOMERSET, New Jersey—Two hundred fifty pastors, ministry leaders and ministry workers from WCG congregations in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic districts met at the Somerset Marriott May 20 to 22 for three days of meetings under the banner, Church Forward!

The purpose of the meetings, as in all 2005 regional conferences, was to equip congregational leaders for moving the church forward in its mission with full reliance on God, focused purpose and ministry skill.  

Reliance on God

It was clear at the conference that our journey forward is both together and on our knees—seeking and trusting God to direct and empower us in pursuing Christ’s mission for the church.

Dan Rogers addresses conference attendees. [Photos by David J.M. Robinson]

Many commented that a highlight of the conference was the worship time. Worship was led by teams from Union, New Jersey; White Plains, New York; and Baltimore, Maryland.

Sermons were given by WCG President Joseph Tkach, who shared two essential messages: God’s goodness and power in seeing us through 10 years of transition, and the importance of relying fully on Christ as we move forward.

The closing worship service on Sunday morning, May 22, was characterized by joy, exuberance and reassurance that God is moving mightily in our midst as we follow him forward in prayerful dependence and hope.

Focused purpose

The way forward has clear focus—we are called to pursue the Great Commission (to make disciples who make disciples) motivated by a Great Commandment heart (that expresses Jesus’ love for God and for people).

Individual sessions addressed how this purpose is lived out in the life of a congregation. Sessions included instruction in preparing and using a congregation’s vision document and budget; advancing intergenerational ministry to children; nurturing believers to love Christ; equipping workers to co-minister with Christ; reaching out to non-believers to connect them to Christ; and multiplying leaders through mentoring to lead with Christ.

Ministry skill

Sunday morning training sessions focused on collaboration—working together in ministry teams to formulate plans and make decisions in ways that seek consensus. The sessions provided opportunities for teams to discuss next steps in developing children’s ministries and next steps in altering worship services to more fully experience and celebrate Christ’s presence.

Many participants commented positively on the joy, enthusiasm and focus of this conference. Greg Williams, pastor in Fayetteville, North Carolina, said that the conference is “helping to lead my congregation and me in better ministry practices and especially giving us the methodology for vision casting.” Others commented on how helpful the conference was in building a greater sense of unity among congregational leaders.

Copyright © Grace Communion International, 2005