Last year, I had the privilege of leading one of the breakout sessions for 21-C. I thought then, as I do now, this is one of the best events we offer as Virginia Baptists. As I reflect back through my notes, and through the weekend, I realized that much of what I heard and experienced has crossed my path before. However, we live in a period where leadership is no longer a noun, but a verb, and it is that conviction that made the conference an awesome experience for me.
Tom Baynham, Minister of Music and Worship
Temple Baptist Church, Newport News
The one predictable aspect of this year’s 21-C, is the constant unpredictability of this event. … The Lead like Jesus worship experience was inspiring and revealing. It was amazing listening to the stories of these powerful business leaders, and how Jesus is using them in a mighty way to advance the Kingdom of God. It was much more powerful than just listening to another preacher talk about what it takes to build a church like theirs. … The best thing was the sharing of ideas and networking which I anticipate will continue far beyond 21-C.
Rusty Beck, Young Adult and Student Minister
Parkview Baptist Church, Newport News
Rusty Beck, Young Adult and Student Minister
Parkview Baptist Church, Newport News
This year’s 21-C program was outstanding. The Lead Like Jesus information was some of the most useful information that I have heard in dealing with church leadership and personalities. Without question, this year's program should be mandatory in all seminary programs. This is the information that most pastors learn the hard way. I strongly recommend that church leaders, vocational and volunteer, take full advantage of 21-C the next time it rolls around. Without question, it will have a positive influence on your ministry.
R. Lee Farmer, Pastor
Coan Baptist Church, Heathsville
R. Lee Farmer, Pastor
Coan Baptist Church, Heathsville
As Christians, we have a tendency to be forgetful people. We forget that we already know the answer to our most challenging questions. We possess the key to unlocking the power needed to accomplish great things for the kingdom. Jesus is the answer and the key. The Lead Like Jesus seminar was an important reminder of the fundamental aspects of Jesus’ leadership style that I too often forget. A diversity of dynamic presenters challenged me to rethink not just my leadership style, but my lifestyle. This was a day of blessing and benefit far beyond the ordinary.
Woody Jenkins, Pastor
Southampton Baptist Church, Richmond
Woody Jenkins, Pastor
Southampton Baptist Church, Richmond
The conference leaders challenged us to find two or three ideas from the weekend and hold onto them. For me, the first was a reminder that if I am to be a leader I must love people as Christ does. The only way to lead anyone to a better life with the Lord is by loving them as he does. The second was to learn to serve out of confidence and not fear. The worst that can happen to me is nothing compared to what I have in Christ.
John Miller, Pastor
Alum Spring Baptist Church, Culpeper
John Miller, Pastor
Alum Spring Baptist Church, Culpeper
On behalf of the courageous churches team, I would like to praise God and offer a word of great gratitude to all who made 21-C an unprecedented experience this year. A record 1,100+ participated in the “Like Jesus” experiences of Friday and Saturday. Special thanks to our ministry partners at Lead Like Jesus, RASNet (The Ray and Ann Spence Network for Congregational Leadership) and St. Paul’s Baptist Church. Great thanks also go to the Virginia Baptist churches who created the experiences, and to all of you who came to serve, learn, lead and grow. I will never forget the image of Virginia Baptists dancing (!) and celebrating in a foretaste of heaven during the Friday night worship celebration. The Kingdom of God is at hand, and there’s nothing like being a part of Virginia Baptists advancing that Kingdom!
John Chandler
Courageous Churches Team, Virginia Baptist Mission Board
Baptist General Association of Virginia
John Chandler
Courageous Churches Team, Virginia Baptist Mission Board
Baptist General Association of Virginia