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.