Midwinter 2013 will definitely go down as one of my most memorable Midwinter experiences. Let’s be honest, I love gathering with my colleagues and friends every year, usually in Chicago. But any chance we get for some sun, in a setting like San Diego, is a can’t miss opportunity. Sure, there was a little rain, but what made up for the colder than average temperature was found in relationships rekindled and new commitments made to one another.
It’s hard to believe that just one year ago, Covenant Kids Congo powered by World Vision was announced. At the time, everyone said it was inspiring but nearly impossible. World Vision and the Evangelical Covenant Church joining together in a first of its kind partnership with sisters and brothers in the Democratic Republic of Congo. We know, however, that with God, anything is possible – maybe unprecedented, but not impossible! To that end, it was an incredible week. We entered into Midwinter with nearly 300 Covenant churches signed up for Hope Sundays and some 4,000 kids sponsored. Real lives and communities already experiencing transformation, both near and far.
We return from San Diego thankful (and a bit tired!) for what God has done. Our luncheon event was filled not only with about 80 attendees but testimony after testimony of how God was transforming our churches here in North America. Capping off a series of individual meetings and group conversations about further commitment, we were blessed by a panel at the Thursday morning worship service of Covenant pastors representing the best of who we are, together. A combination of every type of church from rural to urban and established to church plants all united for our kids in Congo.
We’re excited to report that nearly another 100 churches have made their commitments to host their first Hope Sunday events this coming year. Incredible stuff, out of another unprecedented week. In case you missed it, here’s the video which was shown during the service.
[vimeo id=”59610373″]
