This past year the cabinet officers of our Region’s Minister’s Council have met numerous times to develop a new direction and vision for our ministry colleagues. We’ve talked about what we should be about, how to create a sense of “buy-in” from our potential membership, and how we come alongside the clergy in our region for encouragement and support.

In late April we sponsored a retreat that focused on the spiritual renewal for the attending clergy. It was a “test” retreat, and received much positive feedback from the participants. We plan to sponsor another similar experience in 2009.

“Together In Ministry” groups are being launched. A “TIM” group commits to meeting once a month for discussion, sharing, and prayer. Grants are available from our denomination to help pay for the materials and resources a TIM group uses. Our Cabinet is looking to get two more TIM groups organized in by 2010.

We’ve been working on increasing our membership. 2006 saw our Region having only eight members. 2007 was at 18. So far we are at 35 for 2008, with our goal being 50. We believe that our clergy needs the support of The Ministers Council to help them in difficult situations, to be their advocates, and a network of support and encouragement. But we also believe that the region is strengthened by the ministry colleagues within it; and therefore, the pastors, counselors, and chaplains in our region are called to undergird the ABCRM in prayer, participation, and support.

In summary, it’s been a good re-beginning for the Ministers Council in our region. I can’t thank our cabinet enough for their efforts and commitment. It has definitely been a team effort to move us forward.

Rev. William D. Wolfe
President