Growing Up to the Full Measure of Christ

Beloved in Christ Jesus:

 

In just over 90 days we will gather in Peoria for Annual Conference. The theme for the 2011 session is Intentional Faith Development- Growing Up to the Full Measure of Jesus Christ (see Ephesians 4:13).

 

This year’s theme continues our conference emphasis on the Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations. One of our guest presenters will be the Rev. Dr. Kenda Creasy Dean, a United Methodist Elder and Associate Professor of Youth, Church and Culture at Princeton Theological Seminary. Her most recent book is Almost Christian: What the Faith of Our Teenagers Is Telling the American Church.

 

One reviewer says of the book, “Persuasively and accessibly written, Almost Christian is a wake-up call that no one concerned about the future of Christianity in America can afford to ignore.” I can tell you that the book will rock our world and Kenda as a presenter matches the power of her writing and research.

 

We are at a critical juncture in American Christianity. I want to join you in being re-evangelized by the saving Gospel seen in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. I want you to join me in preaching, teaching and living the heart of the Gospel in America and to the ends of the earth.

 

I still believe that Jesus Christ changes lives and life. I dare to believe God still has purpose for the church. I want all the pastors, laity and congregations of the IGRC to live up to that holy purpose. I have every expectation that our conferencing this year will help us to reclaim and be better equipped to fulfill our calling to Make Disciples of Jesus Christ for the Transformation of the World.

 

As always, I am yours for the sake of the mission,