What Does a Work Conference Look Like?

Have you ever been to a conference for your job?  It usually consists of a couple days away from home, some travel, a large retreat center and lots of time sitting and learning about your company, job and ways to improve.  The same format is widely used and a conference I went to last week was no different - except for a few things.

My co-workers:

One day while in my neighborhood taking a walk, a friend stopped by and asked if  I knew a local ministry was hiring.  I did not, but all that evening felt the pull in my heart to explore it.  Sending an inquiry that night, a quick response came back and a meeting was immediately set up. This opportunity was God ordained.  He placed me in this office with these precious co workers and is continually growing me in my Christian walk through it. 

Here is the group I traveled with:

The travel for the conference?  A 2 hour drive where hearts were shared and how the greatness of God's grace worked in our lives.  What a beautiful time of connecting with one another!

The retreat center:

The place our workshop was held was a campground.  Once we arrived, we never left. Food, lodging and training were all held within walking distance.  And what a pleasure it was to walk in this atmosphere!

The food:

Oh, the food!  Home cooked breakfast, lunch and dinner, every day!  

The Training:
The sessions were spent beginning with a fabulous worship band providing an atmosphere of true worship and praise to the Lord. Each session opened our hearts to hear the Word of God shared by several pastors.  

Leadership forums provided needed information relating to our field from legal guidelines, to hope filled connections and tons of pertinent information to keep our places of ministry current and up to date. 

But beyond the valuable training we received, we left equipped, encouraged and energized to continue to make a difference in the lives of others.  Appreciation was expressed along with the reality that there will be challenges.  But the message of love and hope in God will equip us and fill us with wisdom, ability and His power to overcome.

This was my first time at this conference, but although it followed the protocol of work conferences, it was more than information, it was truly inspiring.