Agenda:
9:00 – 9:30 Arrival & Registration
9:30 Fellowship
9:50 Praise Music
10:00 Opening Session
Prayer & Welcome – The spirit and tone are set for the day through an opening blessing and an overview of the day’s intent and sequence of events.
Personal Testimonies – Listen to how God and the Walk to Emmaus have transformed lives, homes, and churches of Southern New England.
Bishop Devadhar Address – New England United Methodist Church Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar shares his thoughts and perspectives on church challenges and renewal.
11:00 Break
11:10 Interactive Panel
Rev. Dr. Andrew L. Foster III, District Superintendent for the United Methodist Church Rhode Island Southeastern Massachusetts District, is joined by other lay and clergy leaders in a roundtable discussion of church renewal opportunities.
12:00 Lunch
1:00 Concurrent Breakout Sessions
The Millennial Opportunity – Reaching out to this younger generation is critical to the future of our churches, and provides an opportunity for outreach and growth. Join Rev. Jackie Trotter Dove as she helps us to understand how Millennials think, what they are looking for in their faith journey, and how we can reach out to them. Rev. Dove is a Doctoral candidate and is studying Millennials for her dissertation. (Note this session will be recorded if you choose to attend Session B or C below.)
What is the Walk to Emmaus? – God uses many people and tools to grow His kingdom. This segment will provide an overview of the Walk to Emmaus including its history, mission, and what happens on the weekend. If you have been considering attending a Walk or would like to learn more about it, this segment will help you prayerfully decide if the Walk is right for you.
Effective Sponsorship – Have you been on a weekend and want to share the experience with a friend or relative? This session will guide you in discerning who God may be calling you to invite, helping your Pilgrim have the best possible experience, as well as prepare both of you for continued spiritual growth following the weekend.
1:50 Break
2:00 Church Revival Brainstorming Session
Participate in small group discussions to brainstorm ideas for church revival. What have churches tried that worked or didn’t work? What is the role of clergy vs. laity? Share your ideas with all attendees by posting your top suggestions on a common bulletin board!
2:50 Break
3:00 Music We will make a joyful noise as we sing praise songs together!
3:30 Worship & Communion Join us as we worship God and partake in holy communion which is open to all. Rev. Dr. Andrew L. Foster III will deliver the message.
4:30 Departure