We all have our own denominational “distinctives,” but the church of Jesus Christ will really impact communities when we all begin to celebrate as the “One” body of Christ and join our strengths to reach cities for Jesus. This needs to be more than words. It needs humility, acceptance, forgiveness and a greater vision than what we have today.

During my recent study on the inter-relationship within the Trinity, I was reminded again that when we demonstrate real love and acceptance towards one another, we then reflect the love of the Holy Trinity.

If 95 countries can come together under the Olympic flag and share in 17 days of amazing experience through sport, can the church come together and live out the love of Jesus?

I want to ask this simple question: What is your part in taking down the “walls” around your church gatherings and joining the body of Christ down the street and across your city?

The “New Twist” was designed to enhance the annual Leadership Summit (live satellite broadcast to 16 cities across Canada in August) for smaller regions in our country. Although many of the same speakers are used, the GLS has its own unique flavour…

• Live worship throughout the weekend
• Live M/C & Facilitator
• Interactive guided discussion after each videocast session
• Weekend event (Friday night, Saturday) so that more people can be accommodated
• Smaller venue in regions that normally don’t receive these types of events
• Registration costs are lower

Did we succeed? The response has been an overwhelming YES and we are looking forward to seeing how we will expand this in 2010.

Many of the attendees were blown away. Despite us casting the vision and putting it out there, not many really understood the calibre of the event. I had one leader in local business tell me that he would bring most of his senior staff next year and he would pay for all of them.
Sudbury, ON

We had an absolutely amazing [GLS] Summit. Hearts were deeply stirred and without exception, all the evaluations were over the top.
Terrace, BC

I loved the Global Leadership Summit. I really thought it was great, and I’m only 15, but I definitely got a lot out of it, and it’s not just something for adults. First I was thinking, “Well, I’m not a leader, I’m not very influential, so none of this stuff will be relevant to me.” But not only did I find the speakers to be very engaging and insightful, I think that lots of other youth could also get a lot out of it.
St. John’s, NL

Our leaders enjoyed the GLS format this year, after three years of the live-feed. The opportunity to take more time and soak in the teaching and experience was very beneficial. We were like sponges that had water poured on top of us. The facilitator prodded us and enabled the water to soak more deeply into our thinking and reflection. We all felt that we came away from the day retaining more than we could have had he not been with us.
St. John’s, NL