From the 10th – 12th May 2011, CDP Presbytery conveners from all 19 Presbyteries of the UPCSA met at the Jakaranda Lodge and Conference Centre in Pretoria. The intention of the conference was not only to familiarise Presbyteries with the work of the Assembly CDP committee, but also to create an opportunity for discussing, sharing and brainstorming ideas and strategies regarding future growth in the denomination. It was a creative and encouraging time in which a greater awareness of Church Growth was raised amongst those attending and the Conveners were equipped with the tools necessary to create a culture of Church Growth within their respective Presbyteries.

Notable amongst the matters addressed was the need for every Presbytery to establish a Church Growth Forum (CDF) to which all Church Development Evangelists, Interim Moderators, Ministers and Elders are invited to discuss key issues related to the life, ministry and growth of congregations. The ‘curriculum’ for the CDF is contained in a booklet published by the Assembly CDP committee in which 14 issues related to the life of a congregation are raised for discussion and learning. It is hoped that a second booklet will be published in due course.

Another highlight of the Conference was the bible study held on Acts 2:42-47. We were able to identify no less than 20 marks or characteristics of the early Church, and it left us with a keen sense of the kind of life the Church should have. All those who participated in the Conference expressed thanks at the opportunity to be engaged with issues that bring life and hope to the Church.

There’s also a follow-up letter HERE…