BUILDING UP THE BODY OF CHRIST
From Feb. 11th to 16th , 2001 Anglican Renewal Ministries held their School of Renewal Ministry (then called Leadership Training institute, or LTI, for clergy at the Ermitage St. Croix in Pierrefonds, Quebec. Situated on the tip of the island of Montreal this scenic location that overlooked the Lake of Two Mountains. It was here that some 16 clergy from across Canada gathered to learn more of "apostolic ministry". The participants came from Vancouver in the west, to the Eastern Township in the south and east, to Tyuktuk and Puvirnituq in the northern Quebec Arctic. The leaders were the Rev. Dean Brady, from Beaconsfield, Quebec, the Rev. Nick Brotherwood from Montreal and the Rev. Gene Packwood from Medicine Hat, Alberta.
The purpose of the School of Renewal Ministry is to teach leaders of "apostolic ministry", that is, ministry that is modeled on what the apostles did to build up the early church. This ministry centers around a firm commitment to Jesus Christ, a focus on evangelism, and a reliance on the presence and work of the Holy Spirit.
Over five days the participants were taught many things. Nehemiah was used as a model of apostolic leadership for Nehemiah, among other things, knew the character of the living God, spoke with authority, won the trust of his people, strengthened and encouraged his people, fulfilled specific objectives, and fully entered into worship. These were just some of the apostolic leadership qualities that were modeled by Nehemiah. The leaders also talked about leading a Parish into renewal, and of how to disciple and equip leaders in the Parish. Overall every participant came away with new ideas of how to allow God to work more fully in their Parish.
Although the teaching was primary, the fellowship was equally important. The presence of two Christian brothers from the Arctic whose parishes long for the presence of the living God was particularly inspiring for the group. Being among clergy who put Jesus so much in the forefront was refreshing. And worshipping together twice a day in the power of the Spirit moved us all.
I was able, through this School of Renewal Ministry, to clearly see where my parish is in terms of renewal. I learned many things that will help me as a leader to bring both spiritual and numeric growth to the parish. I felt the Holy Spirit affirm my ministry and I felt encouraged as I returned to the Parish. For all of this I thank God.
I highly recommend Anglican Renewal Ministries' Schools of Renewal Ministry for all clergy, and indeed for all lay leaders. This course and time away can give all people the chance to renew their faith and refine their calling as Christian leaders. Thanks be to God !
Rev. Ralph Leavitt