12th District Ministries in Christian Education Retreat
Rev. Larry Banks, 12th District
During January 13-14, 2017, the 12th Episcopal District Christian Education Department and the Ministries in Christian Education began a refreshed journey in ministry preparedness. Our Episcopal leadership team, Bishop Michael and Supervisor Cordelia Mitchell inspired and led us into this journey. Each Episcopal ministry leader, the Rev. Gregory Nettles (Sons of Allen), the Rev. Dr. Roy Jones, Jr. (Christian Education Director), Mrs. C. Ann Smith (CDMC), the Rev. Jeremy Jones (RAYAC), the Rev. Napoleon Davis (Church School Superintendent), the Rev. Keith Granberry (Music and Christian Arts), the Rev. Norma Gillom (Health Director), and the Rev. Larry Banks, Chairman, took into account the level of trust empowered upon us by our Episcopal Leaders.
The two-day retreat afforded us the opportunity to see each ministry in its own place, with its own purpose and mission, beneath the umbrella of Christian Education. The Episcopal leader session, Friday night, truly allowed the leaders to see the big picture and the many advantages of the ministries working in concert for the good of Christian Education in the Twelfth District, our churches, communities, and cities, across both Oklahoma and Arkansas.
The second day allowed each ministry leader adequate time with the various levels of down-line ministry participants to talk strategy, organize, and offer direction for the ministry. While one focus at this session was to organize, much in-depth planning took place. The closing general session gave each ministry leader the opportunity to share with the other ministries their calendar so the ministries in Christian Education will be prepared to support each ministry throughout the year.
As a result of the retreat, each attendee gained a clearer understanding of our individual and ministry duties and responsibilities in support of our local, presiding elder district, conference, Episcopal, and connectional church relating to Christian Education. Departing the Retreat, we PRAY, PREACH, TEACH and now-GO…
The Rev. Larry Banks is the pastor of Bethel AME Church, West Memphis, Arkansas and Chairman of Christian Education for the 12th Episcopal District. He is a three-term member of the General Board and a native of Stephens, Arkansas.
