Pastors Gather for Winter Ministerial Meetings Focused on Mission and Prayer
Pastors from across the conference gathered January 26–29, 2026, for the Winter Ministerial Meetings, a four-day time of reflection, collaboration, and recommitment to the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Held at Camp Au Sable, Ministerial is designed to encourage both spiritual renewal and meaningful dialogue. The theme for the retreat was centered on mission alignment—ensuring that every level of ministry remains faithful to the church’s calling to make disciples.
Each day began with morning worship where a pastor shared their personal testimony. Workers were inspired with the many ways God leads in personal ways. Pastors spent intentional time praying together for the advancement of God’s mission throughout Michigan. These shared moments of prayer underscored the conviction that effective ministry flows first from dependence on the Holy Spirit.
The meeting schedule included general sessions, seminars, and breakout discussions focused on incorporating mission into every aspect of church life and guarding against mission drift. Special emphasis was placed on helping pastors think practically about aligning local church ministries with the broader mission of the conference and equipping members for meaningful engagement in soul winning and discipleship. In addition to structured sessions, the meetings intentionally included time for family, fellowship, and rest—recognizing the importance of balance and personal well-being in pastoral ministry.
A final charge challenged attendees to return to their districts with renewed focus, spiritual courage, and a deepened commitment to lead their churches with mission clarity. The Winter Ministerial Meetings served as a reminder that while methods may vary, the mission remains the same—and that when leaders seek God together in prayer, the church is strengthened to Grow Michigan through intentional, focused, and planned discipleship rooted in God’s Word.