Strengthening the Disciples 2023
in partnership with……….
CrossPassion exists to express the passion and purpose of the cross to those who have never heard. Forgiveness. Cleansing. Redemption. Hope. Light. Love. Purpose. Relationship. These words reflect the transformation Christ can make in hearts that believe in His redemptive work.
Reflecting on 2022
Across three days starting on April 20, 2022, Ray of Hope Amazon and Cross Passion welcomed 50 pastors to the town of Manaquiri, a community of 30,000 southeast of Manaus, Brazil. The theme of the conference was “Strengthening the Disciples” as our goal was to teach, pray and inspire God’s disciples in all that they do in their families, churches and community. With sessions in the morning, afternoon and evening, the conference covered topics of prayer, the Great Commission, Healthy Marriage, Developing a Generational Church Vision and Structure, Youth and Children’s Ministry.
Between each session we met in small groups to discuss these topics, how they affected each of us individually and what we can take back to our community.
Each day was full of worship, prayer and praise. Old relationships were strengthened, and new friendships were planted. Most importantly, we all left as one team, recognizing that we are all part of God’s plan, brothers and sisters in Christ, all working toward the same goal of bring His Word to all the people of the world.
Looking forward to 2023
As successful and as rewarding this conference was in 2022, we couldn’t let more time go by before returning again in 2023. Since our visit list year it’s been rewarding to see the community come together for HIS glory. It’s event like this, where we all realize that despite various differences in theology and locations, we are all part of Christ’s family.
On the last day of the conference, Pastor Nelson (left above) and Pastor Joel (center above) were worshipping on stage. We didn’t know it at the time, but that was the first time the’ve sang together in five years. Their relationship was broken. As a result of this conference, and God’s ever present redeeming spirit, these two men were brought back together to worship and work towards God’s glory together. This is just one example of why events like this are so important and why we so strongly believe in Strengthening the Disciples conferences.
This year we will be in Manquiri on May 24-26 to hold a three-day conference. Fifty pastors and their spouses will be joining us along with a host of volunteers from Ray of Hope Amazon and Cross Passion. The cost of the even is about $18,000 which covers food, lodging and transportation for everyone in attendance. We really need your support. Please donate today. God Bless.