The theme of the 2008 session of the North American Ministerial Council (NAMC) that will be held October 6-11, 2008 is “Equipped for The Journey.” This meeting will celebrate the sesquicentennial—the 150th anniversary of the founding the Church: 1858-2008.
The NAMC will meet at a Christian Conference Center, known as Gull Lake Ministries, located at 1988 Midlake Drive, Hickory Corners, Michigan. This location was selected purposefully because it is in the very heart of where the Church of God (Seventh Day) was founded 150 years ago. Think of it! The NAMC will celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of our church in the very place where our first pioneers studied, prayed and preached while seeking God’s blessing and direction for their labors.
The membership of the NAMC, composed of all ministers holding a ministerial license or credentials, has extended a special invitation to all Lay Pastors and congregational lay leadership to attend this once-in-a-lifetime event. You are invited to join them in celebrating the 150th anniversary of our church.
We suggest that leaders who may need financial assistance to make their attendance possible ask their church for financial assistance to help cover the costs of their trip, room and board at the meeting of the NAMC. We prayerfully ask every congregation to provide funds to make possible the attendance of your pastor or lay leader who serves your congregation so faithfully possible.
Costs of room and meals at the resort-like conference center are $358.00 per person for the duration of the NAMC meeting. For additional information on the cost, please refer to the registration form.
The program of the NAMC will provide interesting and informative instructions for both the members of the Council and lay leadership. Every presentation will support the theme of “Equipped For The Journey.” There will be a historical review of the Church’s beginning, etc. Laymen will be invited to sit in on portions of the NAMC meetings that will be of interest to them. At other times when the business of the Council becomes routine, they will be invited to attend presentations that have been specially selected for them.
Committee reports that must be given to the 2008 Council are those of: the New Covenant Study Committee, the Doctrinal Statement Study Book Committee, and the committee appointed to study the Council’s structure.
While you have this letter before you, mark the dates of October 6—11, on your calendars and begin now to plan to attend this historic NAMC meeting.
Sincerely, in the name of Jesus,
Robert Coulter, President of the NAMC
