Fully Invested

by Ron Hamilton, Conference Minister

The 2015 Annual Gathering was focused on the theme, Fully Invested. I was encouraged with the overall spirit of our gathering and saw so many evidences that the membership of the CCCC is fully invested in the work that God has called us to in this generation. The Lord was present, and those attending sensed His direction in all that took place. People showed that they are fully invested in living in obedience to Jesus as we “Love God, love others, and make disciples as we go.”
Those attending were fully invested in devotion to worship and to God’s Word. I really appreciated the times of worship that were led by several different groups. One of our guest speakers last year commented on the great singing at the annual gathering. I believe that this happened again this year as people joined their minds and hearts in praising the Lord. There was a high level of engagement by people with our two main speakers, Dr. Gordon Hugenberger and Dr. Neil Hudson. The Q & A time at the Tuesday luncheon reflected the spirit of engagement as people shared many insightful and provocative questions and insights. The annual gathering showed that those attending were passionate in their love for God.
Our membership is fully invested in fellowship with one another. The annual gathering provided many opportunities for meeting with other members of the Conference, and I witnessed many people who made a special effort to get to know people who they had not previously met, many who set aside time to prayerfully encourage others, and many who enjoyed catching up with long-time friends in the CCCC. The boat cruise provided a great opportunity for fellowship and conversation, and everyone who participated had a wonderful time. Many of our regional groups met for separate dinner meetings to encourage one another.
There was evidence that people are fully invested in the mission that God has placed before us. The business sessions were well attended, and the delegates were very engaged in all that was presented. The unanimous approval of the By-Law revision demonstrated that our membership is serious about the work on our priorities of Church Development, Church Multiplication and Conference Care. The closing session was especially encouraging to me as I witnessed people welcoming those who joined the CCCC this year, and I sensed a great freedom to share how we can be fully invested in the mission and ministry of our Conference.
The annual gathering theme centered on Deuteronomy 6:4–5, Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. The 2016 gathering was evidence that our membership is “all in” and that our devotion to God and to His work is as strong as ever.