Global Gathering reflections

After a very full week in Anderson I, like a few thousand others, are returning home. The long-anticipated 2013 Global Gathering is over and the over-whelming feedback has been very positive.

The Global Gathering can be deemed a success for several reasons. First, it was extremely good for the Church of God from around the world to gather together again. It’s been well over a decade, and long overdue. Our movement needs these opportunities for exchange and celebration.

Adding to the success is that this was a well-planned and executed event. Participants were able to benefit from a wide range of excellent preaching and worship experiences, as well as smaller connectors and an interesting expo. The cumulative result is that we left Anderson strengthened, invigorated, and hopeful for the Church of God.

The Global Gathering was also significant because it was one of the most impressive events we’ve had in quite some time. With the continuing demise of the North American Convention this was a welcome change. Of course, next year may be a different story, although though no word has been given yet on what the NAC format will be. It is obviously cost prohibitive to hold a Global Gathering more than once or twice per decade, but l trust this year’s achievements will prompt organizers to begin planning the next one.

Two further comments. First, the incorporation of a special project offering, devoted to world hunger and drinking water, was innovative and positive. Sadly, however, I heard from several missionaries who were somewhat frustrated by how this was implemented and communicated.

Second, a major overtone to the entire week was felt, and that related to the upcoming transition in the General Director’s position. I will have more to say on this in a separate post related to the General Assembly, but it is worth noting that this event provided a tremendous finale to Ron Duncan’s tenure.

There is so much more that could be said about the 2013 Global Gathering, especially as each individual had unique experiences and encounters. But, in short it will probably go down as one of the greatest Church of God gatherings ever. And, it could very well be the last of the great events we see in Anderson for quite some time.

Global Gathering

It’s that time of year again. Hundreds of us are making the trek to Anderson for “Campmeeting”. Except this year it is not the North American Convention, but the Global Gathering, our first world conference in well over one decade.

Unlike what has become the trend, there has been much anticipation across the movement for this event. Of course, bringing together church leaders from around the world is exciting. There will be many opportunities for exchange and fellowship, and we will be able to celebrate what God is doing in other countries.

There are other reasons that this event will be significant. First, we are in the midst of change as a body and this will be especially evident this year as we vote to affirm a new General Director. While we cannot pin our future on one person we also cannot underestimate how critical this leadership transition will be.

Second, the special nature of this year’s event provides a break from the steady attendance decline in the North American Convention. This could be especially important considering the proposed changes coming next year. Will this be the last of the grand events as we have known them?

I am already in Anderson and ready for a full week concluding with General Assembly on Wednesday. Throughout l will be tweeting (@chogblog), and l look forward to following the larger conversation using the official hashtag, #StandingTogether.

Let’s be praying for a week of invigoration and blessings.