The ABCRM Ministers Council held two Region-wide events during this past year. On November 7, 2009 the Council hosted a technology conference at Aurora Hills Baptist Church entitled “The Networked Church.” The guest speaker was Ken Elsner, who addressed the topic, “Future Trends.” Workshops were provided on Church Administration Software (Steve Van Ostran), Getting Started with Technology (Mike Oldham), Worship and Technology (Zach Clark), Social Networking (Clint Walker), and Blogging (Bill Wolfe). The conference concluded with a panel discussion about upcoming trends in technology. Our thanks to Aurora Hills for hosting this conference.

On February 24-25 the Council joined with the National Ministers Council and the Lily Foundation to host a workshop entitled “Communities of Practice.” This was an opportunity for invitees to participate in a community of learning, share ministerial experiences, and explore what it means to become a community of practice as professional church leaders. The workshop was presented by Dr. Joe Kutter, Acting Director of the American Baptist Ministers Council. It was intended to deepen our spirituality and increase our effectiveness as leaders in Christ’s church.

Planning is now underway to further explore ways in which professional church leaders in the Region can be involved in groups that build on relational strengths and clergy excellence. At the present time there are several groups in the Region that meet regularly for fellowship and professional growth. Included are “Together in Ministry” groups that are currently supported and encouraged by grants from the Lily Foundation. The next step for the Ministers Council is to encourage further group participation and individual learning among the clergy in our
Region.

The ABCRM Ministers Council Executive Board currently consists of:

Michael Sayler (President)
Bill Prather (Secretary-Treasurer)
Gary Bowser (Representative)
Gordon Kieft (Representative)
Arlene Bowie (Representative)
Clint Walker (Representative)

The resignation from the Board by Lori Dvirnak, due to her family’s move from the Region, was received with regret. The Senator position is unfilled at the present time. Steve Van Ostran and Michael Oldham represent ABCRM. Thanks is extended to all who have supported the work of the Ministers Council during this past year.

Respectfully submitted
Michael Sayler
President

2009 Ministers Council Report

2008 Ministers Council Report