Innovative Impact

I arrived in Atlanta for General Conference on Sunday night, at least three days early. There were several pre-conferences going on this week for pastors and lay church leaders. I chose to attend Innovative Impact, at the beautiful Atlanta Berean Seventh-day Adventist Church (pictured at right).

I arrived Sunday evening in time to hear most of Pastor Barry Black’s incredible message about turning our disappointments into opportunities. For the next two days we heard from a variety of presenters and while they sounded some very familiar notes about ministry in our contemporary world it good to hear. I had the unexpected privilege to conduct a short Q & A session after a screening of “Stained Glass: Hollywood Blvd” to a group of about 50 pastors. I was again so humbled by the work God is doing in so many places around the country.

The greatest treat was being able to connect with some colleagues of mine that went through Seminary with me. I haven’t seen some of these pastors in nearly 10 years.

As with most conferences, the most memorable and life changing moments are shared over meals and casual conversations in the hallway.

Innovative Impact is organized each year by Dr. Jesse Wilson, Assoc. Professor of Religion at Oakwood University.