About 100 persons, enthusiastic about sharpening their tools for ministry, filled the pews of the Queenstown Church of the Nazarene for a Week-End of Lay Learning (W.E.L.L.), from February 28 – March 2, 2014. The event was planned and organized through the Demerara – Essequibo District SDMI Director, William Woolford, and Council, in collaboration with the District NYI and NMI Presidents, Min. Kerese Harrinandan and Rev. Elivra Moses respectively. The partnership of the three departmental leaders reflected the unity and diversity of the participants who were present.
The WELL was attended, with representation from 24 of the 27 churches on the Demerara – Essequibo District, as well as, participants from the Berbice District. The group was also composed of youth and adult, who are currently working in the various departments in their local churches.
The facilitators for the sessions were Rev. Orfa Montejo Cyr, Min. Kerese Harrinandan and Min. Lynda Woolford. Rev. Monty Cyr conducted six sessions on the Million Leader Mandate. Kerese presented sessions in youth ministry and global missions and Lynda presented sessions on the Church of the Nazarene, and Dependence of God. The Continuing Lay Training material were utilized to as resource material to introduce and remind participants of the availability of these study tools, to enhance their training even after the session.
The presence of God was surely felt over the weekend, as the participants were encouraged to learn more about God, their church and live out their faith as Million Dollar Leaders, Youth Ministers and Servants who are Dependent on God. For many, this weekend was an exceptional time of learning growth. The participants unanimously agreed that the sessions and presentations were great and were motivated to continue serving God in their various congregations.
The success of this weekend was not only attributed to the presence of the participants and the facilitators, but also the several other persons working behind the scenes. A note of gratitude is extended to the pastors who encouraged their members to be present for the weekend; to the District Superintendent, Rev. Porter for providing the financial support for the event, and all those who worked behind the scenes, cooking, printing, following up and preaching and chairing and assisting with the Service on Sunday Morning. This weekend has truly cemented the fact that team ministry is invaluable for the growth of our churches.
Lynda J. Woolford
