Last week I had the privilege of canvasing parts of North and South Carolina in an effort to share the good news about what’ s new with this year’s General Assembly in Charlotte.  Specifically, I wanted to make sure folks had a heads up about the Essentials Conference at General Assembly.  New this year, the Essentials Conference is one of the best opportunities available for congregational leadership development – especially for lay leaders!  Some of the most significant voices in moderate Baptist life (and some outside of our clan) will present 14 different leadership development tracks for everyone from preschool and children’s Sunday School teachers to deacon leaders to finance committee chairpersons.  What’s more, it’s dirt cheap!!  Twenty bucks per person gets your leader five hours of interactive training and integration into a larger community of practice.  You can’t afford NOT to bring your lay leaders!

This opportunity is just one more way that CBF Congregational Formation is resourcing Christians and churches as they discover and fulfill their God-given mission.  Consistent with our vision of becoming the presence of Christ in the world, we’re doing all we can to “equip the saints for works of ministry.”  We’re starting with the things that we most often ask lay leaders to do at church.  Regardless of how you imagine church being done in the future, asking your people to serve without resourcing or equipping them for what your church does now is simply a recipe for burnout and frustration.  So, take advantage of this opportunity.  Don’t think only about those who serve (no doubt many of them would appreciate this resource), but think also about that person your Nominating Committee is eyeing to serve next year.  Approaching someone to serve will no doubt be easier if you are able to point them to an opportunity to prepare for their service.  Go recruiting with an Essentials Conference flyer in hand! (download flyers at the website below)

I want to thank the churches who were a part of my journey last week: FBC Easley, SC; Viewmont BC, Hickory, NC; FBC Burlington, NC; and, FBC Southern Pines, NC.  These churches graciously hosted regional groups of staff in an effort to spread the good news.  These churches are excited about the opportunities available this summer and committed to equipping their lay leaders.  So, what are you waiting for?  Take a look for yourself at the opportunities: http://www.thefellowship.info/assembly/essentials.  Then, register. 

Our mission is to resource you and your church for its God-given mission.  We stand ready to hear and respond to your need.  Let us hear from you.  See you in Charlotte!