By Craig Carr
From Sunday, June 28 through Wednesday, July 1, 2015, about 75 percent of our Rocky Mountain Conference pastors and their families were among more than 5,000 pastoral families, church leaders, and administrators who were blessed by attending the North American Division Ministerial Convention entitled, “CALLED” at the Austin Convention Center in Texas. Attendees experienced a wealth of opportunities to connect socially, receive professional training and resources, and exchange evangelism ideas, while also receiving spiritual refreshment through preaching and music.
Ruddy Vivanco, pastor of the Golden and Denver West churches, enjoyed the variety of speakers and topics presented in the general sessions. “I was impressed by the stories of the abundant interventions of God in the life of a pastor, a long-time warrior,” he said. In addition to the educational information and spiritual messages, Pastor Vivanco appreciated seeing friends and colleagues from across North America. “We need to have more of these!” he exclaimed. Another pastor added, “I wish we didn’t have to wait five more years to see it happen again!”
On Monday afternoon during the convention, president Ed Barnett called a special meeting for all RMC pastors. Evangelist Mark Finley presented some compelling ideas on using CREATION Health as the central theme for evangelism. This was well received by the pastors present.
Pastor Mitch Williams, who serves The Adventure and Greeley churches, was particularly blessed by the breakout sessions. Presenters Derrick Morris and Randy Roberts offered great reminders about how to prepare Spirit-infused sermons. “I appreciated the professional yet spiritual atmosphere. The speakers were terrific. I found Dwight Nelson’s presentation compelling—reminding me to be a greater learner and reader,” said Pastor Williams.
Pastors’ spouses attended meetings arranged by Donna Jackson, NAD Ministerial Spouse Association Coordinator. One of the presentations given by Nancy Wilson, wife of the General Conference president, Ted Wilson, was especially meaningful to many spouses. “She spoke of their personal struggles and was very transparent,” commented Lena Williams, Mitch Williams’ wife.
The convention took place just before the General Conference Session in San Antonio for the convenience of those wanting to attend both events. It is my prayer that the CALLED convention served as a time of confirmation, encouragement, and personal refreshment to each pastor and their families.
Craig Carr is RMC ministerial director.