From the spectacular opening to the triumphant finale of the first International Singles Conference, the message remained consistent: a resounding call to obey the vision God has for our lives.

With 2,700 singles from 43 states and 57 countries converging in Dallas, Texas, I wasn’t surprised to see many old friends. Everywhere I turned, I could feel the expectation. Just the fact that Dallas/ Fort Worth Church of Christ had fought to make this dream come true, highlighted the importance of our singles ministries and the unparallel opportunities that we have at this point in our lives to make a worldwide impact.

Friday night’s program began with a parade of flags from the countries represented, intertwined with Cultural dance routines. The crowd went wild. The spectacle served as such a powerful reminder that we are a part of something so much greater than ourselves. This unity was reinforced in a powerful time of praise and worship.

The transparent realness of Carlos Castillo opened the program. His words were filled with emotion as he recounted his past few years as a disciple, "I dreamed of getting married and watched my dream come true...in the lives of my friends. I dreamed of going into the ministry and watched my dream come true...in the life of a brother I converted. So I became more and more bitter towards God and the kingdom and finally left God.”

I couldn’t help to think of how many times I have heard that story and how many times my own shadowed dreams have pulled me towards that place. Carlos’ story was filled with triumph as he shared how God called him to a change of heart rekindled his dreams. Like Gideon, he called him to “go in the strength that you have.” Like Gideon, God was using Carlos’ changed heart, to change the world.

Saturday’s roster of practical classes, addressed a myriad of life issues ranging from evangelism to grief recovery. Eighty percent of the classes were taught by singles, and I was inspired by the commitment to call singles to rise up and take ownership of our ministry. The lessons challenged us to dig deep roots, deal with life’s challenges spiritually, and use our gifts and talents to dream again for God.

I was thrilled when I tried to get in to see Andy Fleming who taught a class on foreign missions. The class was so packed that many who longed to hear him actually had to be turned away. After the class, people stayed forever asking questions and sharing the dream.

The entire weekend was a taste of heaven on Earth with rekindling of old friendships and sparking of new ones. There was plenty of time for fun and fellowship. The weekend ended with a single brother, AKK, whose identity must be shielded, sharing about the church he leads in Myanmar. There is nothing like hearing from our brothers and sisters in an underground church to inspire our faith. There unity and wholehearted commitment melted all our excuses. He ended his speech urging us to “Obey the Vision” Acts 26:19.

As the parade of flags from all the nations made its final round of the stage, Marvin Lucas closed the program with Jesus’ vision for our lives, “Go make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name if the father, and of the son, and of the Holy Spirit and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you.” -- Matthew 28:18-20.

The weekend was impressive and none of us wanted to leave. None of us could deny the fact that God has moved powerfully, changing lives, rekindling dreams, and calling the singles ministry to a place we have never been before...to a world of Visions and Dreams.

“Between the dazzling performances, the powerful preaching, and the electric fellowship of nearly 3,000 singles, the ISC has taken the singles ministry to a whole new level.” - Dave from Philadelphia, USA

“I left refreshed and with a new heart I want to turn the singles ministry in Philippines upside down.” - Lionel from Philippines

“I felt like this conference gave us such a sense of identity that I have never felt before as a single.” - Vanessa from Atlanta, USA

“I have contributed to the death of the singles in the country of Cambodia by not having the visions and dreams of God in my heart for the nation. My dreams and vision have been rekindled. I want to make every effort to surround myself with others singles that are dreamers. That we might al do our part to win this world of God’s glory and praise.” - Joy from Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Thanks to the Dallas Church and the ICOC Singles Service Team for all your hard work. You’ve changed our world.