From Sabbath 18 January nine ministers from across the British Union Conference (BUC) went through a week of intense training and induction as they took on new ministerial roles within the British Isles. The composition of new ministers varied from interns, licensed and even ordained ministers who have been relocated or assigned from other Conferences overseas. The idea behind the induction is to assimilate new ministers to effective orientation in the British ministerial environment. Pastor Eglan Brooks BUC Ministerial director and coordinator of the event said, "these meetings are geared toward sharpening their ministerial skills, providing an up to date knowledge of the church in Britain today and encouraging an ever-learning stance toward their professional and personal growth.
The format for the week included morning devotions, debriefing and a social element for ministers to develop firm friendships and a support network. The bulk of the day included over 20 presentations over the week, some of which are outlined below:
Dr Brighton Kavaloh | The PARL Role in Church and The Public Square |
Mr Earl Ramharacksingh | Church Finances |
Pastor Eglan Brooks | Organisational Structure, Pastoral Progression, Peer Mentoring & Portfolios |
Pastor George Kumi | Good Shepherds of the Flock (Read "Missing Power") |
Pastor Richard Jackson | Operational Procedure of the Seventh-day Adventist Church |
Dr Richard Daly | Handling a Crisis |
Pastor Maureen Rock | How can I utilise the ADC in my ministry? |
Pastor John Surridge | Church Policy and Reporting |
Dr Kirk Thomas | Evangelism |
Dr Gifford Rhamie | Embracing Cultural Awareness and Practices in the UK |
Mrs Sharon Platt-McDonald | Personal Health |
Mr Bert Smit | ADRA |
Pastor Leslie Ackie | The Pastor's Family/ Time Management & Balancing Home and Work |
Dr Emmanuel Osei | Sermonic Year and Worship Services |
Mr Steve Okelo | SDAA/SDAT |
Pastor Dejan Stojkovic | Youth |
At the conclusion of the week, one minister said, "this week has been so eventful for me, I learnt so much. There are things which you think you understand but then realise you are still far away…it's been a well-planned week and in the climate in which we live today, I have been reminded to adapt my ministry to ensure I value my family more and look after myself, so I can provide a better quality of ministry."
Watch a video summary here
