One of the integral parts of my terms of call each year is time and financial resources set aside for me to continue my education. Over the years I have used that time and those monies to attend different conferences as well as spend time with colleagues in ministry. These times have been informative and formative and my time away last week at the Festival of Homiletics in Atlanta, GA was no exception. I attended the annual festival for the first time a few years ago and knew right away that I would return when given the chance. My schedule did not allow the last few years, but this year it did and I jumped on the opportunity. Once again, I was not disappointed.
Incredible preachers from numerous mainline denominations preached and presented lectures over the 5 days of the conference and they were all excellent. The Festival provided a wonderful opportunity for me to worship and to learn from masters of the craft of preaching. I was also privileged to share the experience with my seminary colleagues with whom I remain in constant contact and with whom I gather each Fall. It was wonderful catching up with them in person and experiencing the Festival with them.
I want to thank the entire congregation for your support of my continued education and ask you to join me in prayer that I might continue to grow from these kinds of experiences so as to be a better pastor and preacher.