2013 Conference Develops Visionary Leadership
NASHVILLE, TN—“Lead to Succeed: Principles for Visionary Leadership” was the theme of the 2013 Free Will Baptist Leadership Conference, which met at Nashville Airport Marriott Hotel December 9-10. Dr. Stan Toler, author, leader, and pastor was the featured speaker for general sessions and seminars throughout the two-day meeting.
Despite challenging weather conditions, more than 120 Free Will Baptist pastors and church leaders from 21 states and one Canadian province gathered for the annual event, which provides a meeting venue for denominational boards and agencies but is open to every Free Will Baptist minister and leader.
The meeting featured worship services, practical instruction, and plenty of time for conversation and networking. “Leadership Conference gives pastors, state leaders, and national board members practical ways to enhance their missions and visions for all facets of ministry,” said Ryan Lewis, conference director. “This year, Dr. Toler shared crucial principles of leadership to help Free Will Baptists advance the Kingdom, vital training for anyone who shepherds others in ministry.”
Stan Toler pastored for over 40 years before becoming general superintendent for the Church of the Nazarene. He also served as vice president for John C. Maxwell’s INJOY Leadership Institute for more than a decade. A best selling author of nearly 100 books, Toler has taught seminars and trained church and organizational leaders worldwide.
He encouraged conference attendees to be faithful and responsible with insignificant details, to be disciplined, joyful regardless of circumstances, comfortable with their abilities, confident in everyday battles, and ready to point to God’s faithfulness. In short, he encouraged listeners to be visionary in their leadership, claiming victory through God’s strength.
“Stan Toler has been a great friend of Free Will Baptists over the years,” said Executive Secretary Keith Burden. “He understands firsthand what pastors and church leaders face in ministry, and his messages were practical and encouraging.”
Evening services featured music provided by the Welch College Men’s Quartet, Rejoice Ensemble, and the 42-voice College Choir directed by Dr. James Stevens.
Todd Smith, executive director of the South Carolina State Association, reflected on the conference: “In spite of missing my flight due to inclement weather, missing a connecting flight, getting ‘bumped’ twice, and delayed three more times, the friendship and fellowship I enjoyed with other great leaders from across the denomination was well worth the hurdles it took to get here!”
All national boards met in conjunction with the conference, including the Executive Committee, Board of Retirement, FWB Foundation, Home Missions, International Missions, Master’s Men, Randall House, Welch College, and Women Nationally Active for Christ. Home Missions also hosted an afternoon reception to honor outgoing General Director Larry Powell for 12 years in the position.
In addition, a seven-member committee met to consider the moral and legal implications of same-sex marriage on Free Will Baptists. The special committee was appointed by Tim York, moderator of the denomination, as directed by the General Board at the national convention in Tampa. Committee recommendations will be brought to the 2014 convention for consideration.
The 2014 Leadership Conference will return to Nashville Marriott Airport Hotel December 8-9.
PowerPoint presentations from Dr. Toler’s seminars are available from the Executive Office by contacting Ryan Lewis (ryan@nafwb.org).