Pastors Conference

The first chapter of "Life Together" by Dietrich Bonhoeffer led to lively discussions about the role of a pastor in the life of the church. With an emphasis on how we grow together in Christ, the Brethren Evangelical Free church conference gave opportunity to discuss expectations that the congregation and the elders have of a pastor. There was much interaction on how these expectations can lead to disappointment and frustration and what to do about it. This year's conference was the best I have been to. Worship, prayer, small group interaction, panel discussion, testimonies, and practical teaching made the conference noteworthy. I also enjoyed interaction with individuals.

Quick facts about the conference:

Funniest Moment: A pastor's "most embarrassing moment" story. Pastor S took a train ride with his daughter and ended up talking with a passenger about God. Another passenger was listening closely. Upon his departure, the "listening" passenger left his newspaper. As Pastor S picked up the paper, he found pornographic material in it (not the funny part ;-)). He asked "What would Jesus do?" and decided to flush the magazine down the toilet. (Editorial note: not sure I would have done that!) To his horror, when he returned to his seat, the passenger had returned and had been filled in on the situation! Pastor S's daughter was leaning over with her red face in her hands as the passenger demanded his newspaper back!

Most Serious Moment: Talking late into the night with soon to be ordained Pastor H about his past Roma ministry and his struggle to know God's will for the present. If this pastor would decide to focus on the Roma, he would be a key person for Roma and Holistic ministry in the Czech Republic. He would also make a great pastor in a "Czech" church. Please pray that the Lord would lead him clearly.

Favorite thought: Pastors are under great pressure to wear a "mask" because of various expectations that the congregation and the elders have of them. However, these "masks" hinder personal spiritual growth and ministry.

Most encouraging "convergence": Networking with head of the new CB mission board, a CB pastor who leads short term mission trips to Roma villages in Ukraine, and the pastor of the international church in Prague. Could this all come together for the expansion of God's kingdom? Representatives from each of these "groups" will be at the CB missions conference on Saturday. Please pray that the Lord leads.