Shortly after my wife
and I first became a couple, she attended a World Conference with her
mother. It was one of the few
non-congregational church events that she has attended without me, and she told
me that even though she really enjoyed the experience, she would never want to
attend another World Conference unless we went together. Its taken about ten years, but we are finally
going to World Conference and I’m very excited.
If you have never been
to a World Conference, I would like to encourage that you consider going. There is just something extremely empowering
about being in a gathering of member of the church from all over the world, and
in such large numbers.
Imagine standing in
the Auditorium’s conference chamber (seating capacity: about 5,800) singing
along with everyone else to new; and beloved hymns being played on an organ
with 6,334 pipes.
Imagine sharing in the Lord’s Supper, as it
is served by 105 volunteers.
Imagine being present during the opening ceremonies
when the flags of 42 nations in which the church is official established in,
are unfurled and draped down from the conference chamber balcony.
Imagine being able to freely discuss and
vote on legislative motions; thereby helping to shape the future of the church. This may not excite people as much as it does
myself, but never forget, never take for granted the fact that we have this
freedom, and many of our brothers and sisters in other denominations do
not. What a blessing it is to belong to
Community of Christ!
Imagine walking down the Worshiper’s Path,
and participating in services in the heart of our breathtaking temple.
Imagine being ministered to by vast choirs
from Africa and French Polynesia, who lovingly share their talents with all
those gathered, and who proudly wear their traditional apparel as a witness of
their respective heritage, reminding us all that we truly are a world church.
Imagine spending several days immersed in
the love of God. Imagine the fellowship,
the evening celebrations, the displays from around the world, the young adult
programs, the heritage sites, the opportunities to visit with other members
from our mission center and field.
Imagine learning what matters most to our
brothers and sisters from all over the world, united together, strengthened by
our shared passion of serving God as disciple of Jesus Christ.
Just imagine what you will take home with
you!
Guest Blogger - David Donoghue
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