28 July 2014 St Albans, United Kingdom [Michael Hamilton, tedNEWS] Over three hundred-twenty Seventh-day Adventist members representing seventeen countries converged at the Ramada Hotel on the shores of the beautiful Lake Balaton in Hungary for the Trans-European Division’s (TED) first joint Great Commission and Laity Festival from15–20 July 2014.
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The aim was to motivate and empower church members for greater service with focus on Mission to the Cities within its region. Following the theme of “Modelling Jesus’ Loving Caring Compassion” guest presenters inspired and challenged delegates to follow the example of Jesus in practically demonstrating compassion in their communities. Pastors Maureen Rock and Simon Martin, both from the British Union Conference, opened and closed each day with thoughtful and inspirational Christ-centred devotions. Plenary and workshop presenters included Adventist Missions Director of the General Conference, Gary Krause, who challenged attendees to become more concerned for the increasing urban population of the European cities.
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Lay pastor and church planter, Mfakazi Ndebele, inspired many to take the challenge of being deliberate in planting lay-led churches. Having been responsible for the planting of two lay-led churches in London, UK, he spoke from an experiential view point and many attendees were inspired to take up the challenge.
A welcomed reminder of God’s creativity was presented to the conference by renowned musician and choir director, Ken Burton. His inspirational style lifted the spirits of all, especially during times of worship. A beautiful compliment to this was the creative use of drama in presenting the gospel. This was very professionally presented by Pastor Geert Tap from the Netherlands, who currently pastors in Central London.
Guest presenters from the TED included Communications and Media Director, Miroslav Puji?, addressing the subject of “Cultural Intelligence and Evangelism”; Women’s and Children’s Ministries Director, Clair Sanches-Schutte, dealing with “Women and Children in Mission”; and Youth Director, Paul Tompkins, who reinforced the urgent need to involve more youth in outreach. The congregation joyfully acknowledged, with a round of applause, the large number of youth who were present at the conference and who were also directly involved in ministry in their local churches.
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Learning was enhanced by a variety of workshops including topics such as, beginning and advanced church planting; the use of music and drama in witnessing; involving lay members; the use of social media; involving youth, women and children in witnessing; how to use the Bible in evangelism; and instruction on establishing Centres of Influence in the European setting.
Attendees expressed appreciation for the opportunity to meet and learn with other Seventh-day Adventist members who share the same passion for involvement in the Mission of God. The spirit of unity and commitment was very evident throughout the five days of meetings and delegates left with keen anticipation of further such meetings in the future. [tedNEWS]
tedNEWS Staff: Miroslav Pujic, director; Deana Stojkovic, editor
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