This past weekend, the Alberta Conference hosted our annual Church Ministries Convention from April 10-12 at Chinook Winds Adventist Academy in Calgary with over three hundred church leaders, volunteers, and members in attendance. The convention centered on the theme “Empowered For Mission” and was a powerful time of inspiration, training, equipping, deep fellowship, and vision-casting.
The presence of the Holy Spirit was evident as we received spirit-filled messages by Dr. Leslie Pollard from the North American Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. We hosted twelve powerful and informative seminars led by speakers from across North America. Dr. Prudence Pollard presented: “Understanding How to Lead Volunteers; Leadership; and Effective Planning Strategies for Church Ministries. Dr. Bill Payne presented: ‘Small Groups, and Is the Heart of the Church Still Pumping Strong?’ Dr. Samuel Pagan presented: ‘Bible Study; Strengthening the teaching Ministry of the Church for Mission.’ Dr. Jonathn Campbell presented; Evangelism; Preaching for Everyone.’ Pastor Rob Dorelus presented; “Ministry Beyond the Hype; Saturday Cafe; Small Groups Real Community. Pastor Julio Davilla; “Deep Calling.” Pastor Jason Williams presented: “More than Money; Freedom, Faithfulness, and Whole-Life Discipleship.” Sister Carol Tonn presented: “Worship/Praise.” Sister Dorothy Falesau presented:”eAdventist Database Training.” Pastor Shawn Ellis presented: “From Scroll to Sanctuary: Making Your Church’s Social Media Matter.” Pastor Jeff Potts presented: “National Church Development; Take Your Church to the Next Level With NCD.” Dr. Darlene Blaney presented: “Comprehensive Health Ministries; Prayers for Healing and Restoration.
Pastors, leaders, and members left the convention with new knowledge, skills, and a renewed vision for their local ministries. We believe that the churches and communities across the conference will be strengthened as a result. A huge thank you to everyone who made a contribution to that success. We look forward for both numerical and spiritual growth in the conference as a consequence. We are deeply grateful for the tangible presence of God that marked every session and conversation. Truly we left this weekend not just inspired, but empowered for mission- ready to see the gospel advanced through all of our churches in the conference. Let us be intentional about brightening the corner where we are. I hope to see you at the next Church Ministries Convention.
By Pastor Reynold Ferary
Director | Sabbath School/Personal Ministries | Alberta Conference