In 1517, Martin Luther nailed 95 Theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany to ignite public discourse about the need for change and renewal in the Church. Luther’s efforts changed history and re-formed the Church. In 2017, 80-85% of churches in the United States are plateaued or declining. If your spirit longs for another season of change and renewal, sign-up soon to attend the Ignite the Church Conference, February 22-24 at Spirit of Joy in Orlando. This new event is being organized by four Florida-Bahamas Synod ministry colleagues passionate about church renewal.
The event will begin Wednesday afternoon with two keynote addresses reflecting on the key elements needed for renewal in today’s Church. Robert Schaefer, Bishop of the Florida-Bahamas Synod, is an advocate for the Church to once again take bold and courageous risks. Joel Hunter, nationally known lead pastor of Northland: A Church Distributed, a thriving, multi-campus congregation in Central Florida, is known for his ecumenical spirit and heart for justice. They have also been asked to reflect on why renewal efforts seem to be more fruitful in some churches than others. It promises to be a dynamic beginning to the event.
On Thursday and Friday, participants will be able to attend two of the following intensive electives: Passionate Worship (Jose Aenlle), Missional Leadership (Johan Bergh), Igniting Kingdom Impact (Jeff Linman), and Discipleship for Daily Living (Robert Schmalzle).
The $99 registration fee includes two meals and snacks. After expenses, all proceeds will be donated to the ELCA Fund for Leaders. For further details, check out the conference website: www.IgniteTheChurch.net and then plan to join us in Orlando as we seek to Ignite the Church again in this 500th anniversary year of the Reformation! The deadline to register is February 10!
