REIMAGINE: 2024 CBF GENERAL ASSEMBLY

This year the general assembly was held in Greensboro. This makes my third assembly. Why do I go? The people, the worship services, the market place, interacting with vendors and sponsors, and the learning labs that cover topics ranging from advocacy, racial justice, global missions, Baptist identity, and more.

This year the assembly started on Juneteenth which commemorates the end of slavery in the US. We enjoyed gathering as a community to fellowship with each other. Then the day ended with a late-night worship that stems from the first Watch Night held Dec 31, 1862 as enslaved people gathered in worship late in the evening watching and waiting for the news of freedom.

The worship leaders and luncheon speakers were inspiring and the workshops were thought-provoking. It was great to visit with Mina and Gennady Podgaisky who are now serving in Poland because conditions in Ukraine are too dangerous. At the final worship service, we got to meet the Global Impact Volunteers (first year for this recognition) who work closely with field personnel. This was a new addition and the persons recognized were involved with Kim and Marc Wyatt at Welcome House, and Anna Anderson for her work in Conetoe. Also 16 chaplains and pastoral counselors were commissioned.

It is great to see what is happening in CBF and what God is leading and calling us to be.

– Sheila Jordan