In January, about 80 leaders gathered at New Denver Church for a regional gathering. Some of those leaders were from local Denver churches; others came from Ecclesia churches in Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, and Texas. For two days, we discussed the importance of soul care for shepherds in ministry. Andrew Arndt, author of the recent book  Streams in the Wasteland  led those discussions. We also explored challenging topics like loving the LGBT community well, loving our (actual) neighbors well, walking with people through mental and emotional health challenges, and walking with people through deconstruction.

It was good to see old Ecclesia friends after the pandemic years. We made new friends as well. We shared stories of success, growth, and God’s faithfulness. And just as many stories of failure, learning, lament. Doing ministry is often hard. But it doesn’t have to be lonely. This gathering was a reminder of two vital truths. 1) Taking care of our own souls and bodies is one of the most important things we can do in ministry. And 2) leaders need support, encouragement, and community among peers as much as anyone else

West Windsor, NJ

March 24-25, 2023

The last three years have been tough on children and youth.  Many churches have seen a decrease in their children’s and youth ministries and are sensing an invitation from the Spirit to rethink why we do ministry with and for our young people.  Along with key voices throughout Ecclesia Churches in the Northeast, we will also hear from Bob Hyatt, Director of Equipping and Spiritual Formation for Ecclesia and the worship teams from Renew Community and Next Gen Church.  This 2-day gathering is open to anyone interested in pursuing God’s heart for the next generation. The schedule will be full and we are asking the Spirit to do a work in us as we learn, immerse ourselves in His presence, and return to our churches.

Schedule:

March 24 – 6 – 9 pm

March 25 – 9 am – 2:30 pm (lunch included)

More Details/Registration