GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.—The annual Church Ministries Conference sponsored by the Grand Rapids Association of Regular Baptist Churches took place on March 7-8, with the theme “Masterfully Motivated.” Calvary Baptist Church of Grand Rapids served as the conference host.
Approximately 1,000 pastors, church leaders, workers, and teachers attend the yearly event, with more than 125 churches from both city and rural settings represented. The conference featured 75-plus workshops covering a variety of instructional and practical topics, and over two dozen exhibitors offered ministry information and tools.
A “Christian Worker of the Year” recognition went to Sally Lillibridge, a member of Berlin Baptist Church, Marne, Michigan. Her pastor, Jeff Gunderman, presented her with a special plaque commemorating her faithful ministry with two and three-year-olds for more than 48 years.
The three main sessions included worship led by Chad Vitarelli, worship pastor at Calvary Baptist Church, and featured Calvary Baptist singers and musicians. Keynote speaker for the conference was Ken Floyd, representative of the Michigan Association of Regular Baptist Churches. Ken’s three messages focused on “Master Motivators” that are cited by the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 5. These include the certainty of life beyond earthly circumstances (5:1-9), the fear of the Lord (5:10-13), and the love of Christ (5:14-21).
Next year’s conference will be held on March 13, 14, 2009. Dr. Michael Loftis, president of ABWE, will be the keynote speaker.
