Every year a group gathers in Missouri to bring together the Christian Churches in the state.  There are a little over 1200 people who attend.  It is largely geared towards an adult crowd with little emphasis on children’s or students (only about 300 in attendance).  Don’t get me wrong they provide programming every year.  Often though it appears to be something where they are given just enough to get by and make it happen.

As one who is passionate about the gathering of and the unity within our brotherhood I must say that I really feel like there should be a change in emphasis.  With a convention of this magnitude there should be more of an emphasis on family.  I am just wondering if there could not have been more involvement with families and less with individual groups.  The other area that I really believe needs improvement is the media that is used in promotions, on the screens and etc.  It is these things when improved that we will see it step up to the next level.

So, why am I rambling about this on a website designed for student ministry?  There are a lot of us in many different states that are simply not supporting the gathering together for unity or community.  When we hear these events are coming we get frustrated and express a negative attitude.  I think that it is time that the student ministers who have the unique ability to see things that can impact or change these gathering, should be stepping up to the plate and start being a part of a larger community.  Not only our lack of excitement but our lack of involvement will not help us progress as a brotherhood.  Look at your convention and go hang with guys who are older than you and simply start finding ways to gently nudge and encourage the changes that will help these gatherings be extremely effective.

Remember it will take time and the relationship is as important as the changes you would like to see.

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