Recently I did a sermon on generosity. In reflecting on several scriptures related to this topic, one cannot help but notice a simple but rather significant principle of life. “God’s blessing in my life is God releasing me to bless others.” The good things that God brings into my life are not just for my own pleasure, but it is an invitation to scatter the seed of blessing to others.

This idea has impacted the planning of District Conference this year. As part of the Conference schedule, “take away” sessions are being planned. (“Take away” is a Craig Smith coined phrase that I like.) The idea behind it is that you will take a blessing, an idea, or a challenge away from District Conference that will release you to be a blessing to your congregation and your congregation’s community. District Conference does not exist just for the District to promote its work. This is an important part of Conference, but it is also a time for the District to serve congregations. District Conference is a gathering of the larger body of Christ. Conference, then, is a time of challenge to be faithful to Jesus’ commission to make disciples, of resourcing for ministry, and networking as a means to encourage one another.

This concept will especially be reflected in Saturday’s schedule of Conference. There will be an extended midday break from Conference business for two purposes. There will be an allotted time for lunch as well as several insight sessions. You will want to watch for upcoming information regarding those sessions. This concept will also be reflected in the District Board report. The action items related to their report are being scheduled at a different time so that the Board’s report can be a time of worship. You won’t want to miss this creative report. It is our hope that each person will walk away with a sense that we are truly partners in ministry to the glory of God.

Let me encourage you to pray regularly for the preparation of District Conference. If our time together at Conference is truly going to enrich us so we may bless others, we will need the work of God in our midst.

Moderator – John D. Hostetter

 

Troy Thorne from the Lampeter Church of the Brethren, designed the logo