Even though Saturday is the official first full day of the North American Convention, it is still a low-keyed time compared to when things start picking up Sunday when even more people arrive.
For me, today was spent primarily in meetings pertaining to Area Administrators. This included a session with writer Milfred Minatrea, author of the book Shaped by God's Heart: The Passion and Practices of Missional Churches.
Despite last night's Anderson University sponsored celebration, Saturday evening marks the true keynote service of the convention. Without introduction the service began with Church of God historian Merle Strege setting the tone with some reflections on our movement's struggle to put unity into practice. Curt Ferrell is this year's evening worship leader and as part of his contribution shared again his powerful song, "One Body, One Spirit, One Lord". This was a signficant climax that followed and made up for what seemed to be first night jitters and technical glitches.
General Director Ron Duncan was our speaker tonight and focused on love as the key to unity, asking us to consider "What kind of church do you have?" The significance of Duncan's message went beyond words. Following his sermon he led in a public demonstration of the unity needed in God's church. Three denominational leaders plus GA chair Bob Moss (representing other church communions) were seated on stage while Duncan, and leaders from the National Assocation, the Hispanic Concilio, and Native American Council washed the feet of these four men. It was a significant act that leaves a strong impression on us as we ponder the implications of unity within a largely fractured Body of Christ.
Fitting to tonight's theme, it was interesting to see in attendance a contingent of individuals from one of the conservative splinters of our movement:
For me, today was spent primarily in meetings pertaining to Area Administrators. This included a session with writer Milfred Minatrea, author of the book Shaped by God's Heart: The Passion and Practices of Missional Churches.
Despite last night's Anderson University sponsored celebration, Saturday evening marks the true keynote service of the convention. Without introduction the service began with Church of God historian Merle Strege setting the tone with some reflections on our movement's struggle to put unity into practice. Curt Ferrell is this year's evening worship leader and as part of his contribution shared again his powerful song, "One Body, One Spirit, One Lord". This was a signficant climax that followed and made up for what seemed to be first night jitters and technical glitches.
General Director Ron Duncan was our speaker tonight and focused on love as the key to unity, asking us to consider "What kind of church do you have?" The significance of Duncan's message went beyond words. Following his sermon he led in a public demonstration of the unity needed in God's church. Three denominational leaders plus GA chair Bob Moss (representing other church communions) were seated on stage while Duncan, and leaders from the National Assocation, the Hispanic Concilio, and Native American Council washed the feet of these four men. It was a significant act that leaves a strong impression on us as we ponder the implications of unity within a largely fractured Body of Christ.
Fitting to tonight's theme, it was interesting to see in attendance a contingent of individuals from one of the conservative splinters of our movement:
3 comments:
That's great to hear/see Lloyd...
RE: the "conservative" folks- any more information on their visit? Were they invited by anyone in particular? Will they be staying longer? How has their time been?
Sorry for all the questions- you're the lifeline of information to the West Coast. :)
Chuck,
There was no official recognition of their presence, so I have no further details of their visit. Although, it is not unusual to see some of them here - I've seen it several times at NAC over the years. I also know that some of "our" people visit their campmeetings from time to time. I am glad that they are here even though I am sure there is likely some uneasiness on both sides.
There were several technical and logistical glitches during the week. Monday the piano was rebuilt DURING rehearsal - sticky keys. BTW, they still stuck after they rebuilt it!
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