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Thursday, 01 December 2011 00:00 |
 As it often is, this year's Gathering of the Baptist Union and NZBMS was a time of celebration, reflection and inspiration. We enjoyed sharing some of what God has been doing with and through us and dream some dreams about what may be ahead. There were many highlights, from catching up with old friends to making new ones and learning more about this wonderful family of God we have been called to be a part of. Here are just some of the things we enjoyed:
Thursday: BMF Day and the Gathering opening dinner
It was wonderful to meet with so many faithful and committed supporters and to have a little fun as we shared what we had been part of in 2011. John Osborne's heartfelt report touched a great number of us and reminded us of the importance of our prayers.
That evening we opened the Gathering with a 'feast of alliances,' celebrating our unity in the mission, before honouring new and long-serving pastors. There weren't many dry eyes by the end of the night as we also heard from the Canterbury churches who served and were ministered to in the wake of February's earthquake.
Friday: Family business and family ministry
There was a real sense of unity through the business sessions, with little discussion coming forth as those in leadership demonstrated their great care and exceptional ability in directing the movement into the future. David Moko, Kaihautu of Maori Ministries, introduced us to his new Strategic Leadership Team. Later Lapi and the Dream Centre team blessed us with fantastic music for worship.
Mark Holmen and Ian and Mary Grant reinforced how significant our ministry in the home is, and the importance of mission addressing the whole family unit.
Saturday: The big finish
It was great to be able to launch the 2012 Self Denial resources at the Gathering, and our roving sticky rice peddlers were very busy handing out snacks and sharing the story of the bamboo rice containers we will be using next year. Rodney Macann passed the mantle of leadership on to Craig Vernall, and we shared our year's events again, this time with the wider family.
It was a full weekend, but a rewarding one. As we concluded on Saturday we were commissioned by President Bruce Patrick in a fitting way: to go and make disciples of all peoples, secure in the knowledge of Christ's presence with us. I am looking forward to seeing that unfold in the year ahead!
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