God has always called his people to come together for times of worship and inspiration. The International Churches of Christ are seeing a resurging interest in gathering for conferences around the world.

“Man is so made that whenever anything fires his soul, impossibilities vanish.” ~ Jean de la Fontaine

“If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.” ~Charlotte Bronte

“The first step toward success is taken when you refuse to be a captive of the environment in which you first find yourself.” ~Mark Caine

“It is a psychological fact that we cherish most what we have worked hardest to gain. The further we have come, the sweeter the celebration at the destination when we arrive.” ~Denis Waitley

“’Build up, build up, prepare the road! Remove the obstacles out of the way of my people.’” ~ God (Isaiah 57:14)

Spiritual

1. God designated special times throughout the year (e.g., festivals, Pentecost, etc.) like this
2. A time for rich fellowship with disciples from home region, sector, family group, etc.
3. A chance to renew and develop relationships with disciples from other churches
4. A can’t-miss opportunity for pre-teens and teens to fellowship and develop relationships that can last through their college years and beyond
5. A time to renew personal commitment to God, his church and our mission
6. A time to be inspired about what God is doing among our fellowship of churches around the world
7. An opportunity to rekindle the flame of passion and vision for God and his dreams for our lives

Practical

1. It’s only one day off of work – request it now!
2. Have family groups work out child care for children under pre-teen age
3. Provide suggestions on activities to keep young children busy and engaged
4. Combine the trip with a vacation of your own (before and/or after the conference)
5. Plan it like a road trip/road rally among different cars in your family group

Financial

1. Organize chartered buses
2. Organize car pools among singles, campus and marrieds w/o kids
3. Organize fund raising efforts to offset costs for disciples in need
4. Earmark some church funds to help defray costs for disciples in need
5. Provide tips on how to save money on food and drink while away
6. Have family groups devise strategies to “provide for their own”
7. Talk to the ministry leaders to share your needs