Next week could be remembered as a time that will refresh the Christian community in Indianapolis, thanks to two special events that could enhance ministry for both pastors and regular lay members of congregations.
One of them, the 2011 Spring Institute sponsored by Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, will offer a full three-day convention designed to help Christians obtain what they need to stay the course of their beliefs, regardless of the circumstances of life events.
This year’s theme is “Finding Personal Meaning Without the World’s Applause,” which is based on Colossians 3:23.
Rev. Ronald Covington, pastor of Friendship, said, “Basically, our goal is to provide inspiration, education and information. We want to equip participants to become the men, women and children that God is calling them to be in our churches and our community.”
Lasting from May 16 to 18, the Spring Institute will include interactive workshops for believers of all ages, dealing with topics of concern for men, women, parents, teens, kids and ministers.
Among the presenters are:
• Pastor Michael Jones of Progressive Missionary Baptist Church
• Shirley Alexander, first lady of Oasis of Hope Missionary Baptist Church
• Pastor Floyd James of Chicago’s Greater Rock Missionary Baptist Church
• Thakena Hogue, a certified child education expert
Also included will be a revival each night at 8 p.m. with preaching from Pastor Tolan J. Morgan of New St. Paul Church of Warren, Mich. On May 18, a luncheon will be held at noon with keynote speaker Pastor James Jackson of New Beginnings Fellowship Church.
“We designed this institute to offer something that will benefit everyone, so that it can enhance the entire family,” said Covington.
Pastors Professional Development Day
Ministers of all denominations will have an opportunity to be renewed during the second annual Pastors Professional Development Day, sponsored by the Baptist Ministers Alliance of Indianapolis and Vicinity.
Taking place on May 16 at Messiah Baptist Church, the conference is being presented to give pastors tools to provide effective leadership, encouragement and inspiration for their congregations and the community.
Seminars and panel discussions will cover issues such as the church and its role in social justice, preparing effective sermons, building strong ministry teams and balancing the hectic responsibilities of church leadership.
“It is important that all pastors are given professional development opportunities,” said Rev. Stephen Clay, president of the Baptist Ministers Alliance and pastor of Messiah Baptist Church. “We invite all pastors, men and women of all denominations, to join us.”
Featured presenters will include:
• Rev. Clay
• Pastor Jeffrey A. Johnson Sr. of Eastern Star Church
• Pastor Theron Williams of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church
• Pastor Michael Jones of Progressive Missionary Baptist Church
“This is an opportunity to be exposed to some of the most seasoned pastors with great ministries throughout this city and served as great role models for pastors throughout this country,” said Pastor Tony McGee of Zion Hope Baptist Church, who plans to attend the conference. “Whether you are a new pastor or experienced pastor, there is an opportunity for you to be able to be energized, to learn, to continue to strengthen your ministry and continue in professional development.”
Get refreshed
2011 Spring Institute
May 16-18 at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 1301 N. Goodlet Ave. Admission for adults is $25 and $5 for teen and youth classes. Child care is provided for children age 5 and younger. Workshops are held from 6 to 7:45 p.m. nightly, with revival services at 8 p.m. For more information call (317) 917-8024.
Pastor’s Professional Development Day
May 16 at 10 a.m. at Messiah Missionary Baptist Church, 5640 E. 38th St. Cost is $25 for pastors before event, or $30 registration day of event. For more information, call (317) 568-1534.
