Reflections on the BUV Winter Gathering Conference 2008: Healthy Congregations

Delegates’ Dinner – Friday

It was so different from previous, more formal Assemblies. No seats set out in rows. No heavy wads of paper to browse through.
No long agenda to endure.
Catching up with friends; meeting new people. Special focus times were interspersed throughout the meal. A vote was held to elect Rev Grant Stewart as our next Regional Minister (Eastern Region).
We listened to a presentation about possible new ways of recognising pastoral leaders. The BUV Ministry Team presented many issues about mission and development for future Gatherings to consider.
A stimulating evening. Totally worthwhile. Thoroughly enjoyable. But all too short.

Rev Graham and Isabel Neilson
Croydon Hills Baptist

Gathering Day – Saturday

On Saturday it was really special to be able to bring the leadership team from Anglesea Baptist, plus a couple of key volunteers. They all really enjoyed the day and valued the content provided in each session and the delicious food.  I was really pleased that they got to see some of the wider Baptist family in action and learn more about what the BUV is doing around Victoria. 
It is deeply inspiring to see the BUV staff serving the churches on these days: it speaks volumes.The new format of decision making on the Friday night seemed to clear the decks on Saturday for broader content and a more ‘conference’ styled day. This really suited our purpose. 

So, thanks to all the BUV staff for a wonderful event.  It was evident how hard people had worked to make the two days run smoothly. Well Done!