For several years now, the Mid-Atlantic region of the Evangelical Association has gathered for a regional event that was a mini-convocation, focused on worship, workshops, and of course, eating and fellowship!  This year we decided to try something different.

During our monthly pastor's lunches, we all agreed that one thing we needed was leadership training for our churches' lay leaders.  Many of us love the programs offered by Lay Renewal Ministries, but smaller churches can't always afford them.  So an idea was born!

On Saturday, April 10th, forty-seven folks from fifteen churches gathered at St. Paul's-Wolf's Evangelical Covenant Church (EA Pastor Matt Stillman) in York, PA, for an all-day seminar on Leadership Effectiveness Training.  Our trainer was Grant Beauchamp from Lay Renewal Ministries.  He led us through an exploration of the components of the effective church, involving personal and leadership team exercises.  We learned how to sharpen our church's focus in ministry and mission.  Every attendee received an information-filled training workbook, and each church present received a training CD to use back home. 

Of course, being members of the Evangelical Association, we couldn't be just about learning and "business"!  We also had wonderful worship sessions led by Rev. Mick Allen, and welcoming words from EA President Rev. Bill Miller and special guest EA National Minister Rev. Jim Barnes.  And of course our hosts at St. Paul's-Wolf's Church provided plenty of luscious food - we all provided the fellowship!  It was a busy, but fulfilling day.

Rev. Mick Allen leads worship at the Regional Gathering.       Grant Beauchamp provides training.

Attendees share thoughts during open discussion.       Rev. Bill Miller, EA President, makes a presentation.

Participants enjoy food and hospitality provided by St. Wolf's Evangelical Covenant Church.