On August 19^th, 21^st, and 22^nd, the Emerging Leaders initiative hosted their very first Lessons Learned Retreat! The STM desk and 4 members of the ELC (Emerging Leaders Cohort) gathered on zoom to reflect on this past year, to survey future possible ministry opportunities and goals, and to support one another on their faith journeys. This past year has been difficult for these Emerging Leaders, like many during this time of Covid, schedules have been put on pause, ministries have been changed, and plans were disrupted. Over the course of these 3 days these individuals used this space and time to reflect on hope, disappointment, faithfulness, vulnerability, and clarity.

The first two days, of the retreat the group took time to reflect on the past year, through guided Lectio Divina and mediations. The group spent time in two discussion sessions, the first one focused on the obstacles, bumps, and curves they encountered, and the second one focused on identity development.

The last morning of the retreat the group spent time in a beautiful worship service with Dan and Sharon Buttry (Retired IM Global Servants). After this worship the Emerging Leaders planted wildflower seeds in a small ceramic pot which had been decorated the day before. Closing this time of “forward reflection” the group spent time in a letter writing exercise to the seeds.

If you or anyone you know is interested in being a part of the Emerging Leaders Cohorts please click on this link: https://internationalministries.org/stm-new-initiative-for-youth-and-young-adults/  or email ELC@internationalministries.org. If you would like to apply for the Cohort please check back on November 1^st to the International Ministries Webpage, click on Global Missions, Journal, to find the journal page with directions for submitting your application.