The Bridge Fellowship held its annual conference October 13–15, “three days of refreshment and renewal,” says Kevin Moses, associate pastor of First Baptist Church, Lapeer, Michigan.
Meeting at Maranatha Bible and Missionary Conference Center, Norton Shores, Michigan, the attending pastors, church staff, and church members explored the theme “In Times Like These” through four main sessions.
During the opening session, Doug Crawford, executive director of the Bridge Fellowship, spoke on “Remember God’s Sovereignty and Walk by Faith” from James 1.
The next morning, Steve Lister (pastor of Shelby Road Baptist Church, Shelby, Michigan) presented “Remember Your Calling and Preach the Word” from 2 Timothy. Mark Shaw (pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, Greenville, Michigan) spoke that evening on “Remember Your Dependence and Pray without Ceasing” from Luke 18.
The conference closed with Michael Riley (pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, Wakefield, Michigan) speaking on “Remember Jesus Is Coming and Endure in Hope” from Romans 8.
Four churches were involved in leading worship, and over a dozen parachurch ministries were on hand to support congregations with resources, counsel, and services. Other highlights included regionally focused prayer times, a full children’s program, a ladies’ luncheon and fellowship, breakout sessions focused on ministry areas, and relaxation and conversation during meals, free time activities, evening campfires, and a golf outing.
During the annual business meeting, the Bridge Fellowship oversight team shared updates regarding ministry initiatives, church health assessments, leadership training, and more. “The Bridge Fellowship podcast, online book groups, and website have proven to be important hubs for edification and help,” Kevin notes. The association also voted to welcome an Upper Peninsula church into the fellowship and continues to raise funds for a Bible translation project.
“Conference organizers and attendees rejoice together at what God is doing to build His church in Michigan and beyond,” Kevin says. “We give Him thanks, ‘for He is good, and His steadfast love endures forever’ (Psalm 136:1).”
