Blogtober Writing Challenge: Inspire
Missouri Mid-South Conference Annual Gathering 2022
The first day of the 2022 Missouri Mid-South Conference Annual Gathering is in the books. It is our first face to face gathering since the start of the pandemic and I am enjoying the chance to see some folks in three dimensions for the first time ever.
The day began with a brief tour of downtown Jefferson City. I got to see the capitol, the historic landing, and the Lewis and Clark Monument. Afterwards I headed to the convention center and got checked in.
First on the agenda was either boundary training or a young adult clergy gathering. We fellowshipped, shared ideas, and spent time in worship. Part of the service paid homage to the people we have lost and to the cost COVID has had in all of our lives.
In the midst of it all, a crucial word of hope was spoken by our transitional conference minister Rev. Mary Nelson. She reassured us that restoration to wholeness is the ongoing promise of the Bible.
God has restored people in the past, is restoring people now, and will continue to restore people no matter what the future holds. This wholeness is a case already and not yet. They were words I needed to hear and I’m grateful for her message.
Today was also a reminder of just how small the church world is. Without knowing who he is I sat down next to Lee Albertson. He works with the national church but has been living in my hometown of Creston for the last several years.
We know so many of the same people even though we had never met. He and his husband are the Godparents for the daughter of a friend from my home church.
Only a few hours in and the gathering has already done a lot to inspire us about the future of God’s mission in our area. Looking forward to hearing everything the Spirit is up to in our church.
