God at Work: Wayne Niles
Posted by Kevin
Butler on August 29, 2008
American Baptist World Mission Conference Has Begun
September 19-21, 2008
Second Baptist Church, Suffield, Connecticut
www.flickr.comPictures of Setup |
www.flickr.comPictures from Friday, September 19th |
After months of planning and work, the World Mission Conference has happened. On September 18, 2008, volunteers from around Connecticut and folks from International Ministries showed up in Suffield to begin setting up for the conference. Over 400 people were registered for the event and came from all over the northeast to learn about, celebrate, and open their hearts to God's call to mission.
The program began on Friday afternoon. There were forums in the afternoon, followed by worship in the evening. During the evening the missionary speakers shared individual stories of the ways that people have surprised them in the places where they minister. The stories were powerful and gave witness to the ways that God surprises us.
Saturday morning began with a plenary Bible study followed by workshops led by the missionaries as well as some workshops led by local people who have been involved in short-term mission experiences. There was also a program for children and another one for youth; in both young people had the opportunity to hear from the missionary guests and to learn about the places where those missionaries serve.
Saturday afternoon included more workshops and then opportunities to learn about mission in hands-on kinds of ways: some people played games from other countries while others tried distinctive foods from other countries.
On Sunday the conference culminated with morning worship in the sanctuary of the Second Baptist Church of Suffield. The Rev. Hanna Massad preached while a choir of Karen refugees from Central Baptist Church of Hartford provided special music. Throughout the worship service, and indeed, throughout the weekend, the WMC praise band provided musical leadership and led participants in songs in a variety of languages.
The weekend was a great celebration of our identity as American Baptists who are engaged in mission, as well as a celebration of the specific missions in which we are involved. Above all however, it was a time of remembering that God uses us, and all of His people, in surprising ways.
Click here for more details about the conference.
www.flickr.comPictures from Saturday, September 20 |
www.flickr.comPictures from Sunday worship |