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There is a saying that "a week is a long time in politics." In God's kingdom, when His people are gathered together to praise and worship Him, be refreshed, renewed and to receive more of His revelation, a week is in fact too short.
This was the general feeling from the 1200 delegates gathered in Curepipe for the annual conference of the ever increasing network of churches and pastors associated with CTMI.
This is interesting despite the fact that there were more meetings than previously, along with other activities, especially for the overseas visitors, who numbered over 300 from some 15 countries this year. Pride of place went to the first ever representative from Chennai, India, a brother who attended the recent CTMI conference in Kakinada, and was powerfully affected by the messages there to decide, in his own words, to become "a son in the spirit" of the Gospel of the Cross.
The speakers this year were Miki Hardy, Stephen Gachengo (Kenya), Peter McKenzie (UK), and Neil Martin (USA). Each shared powerful and exciting, invigorating messages which are available on the website in both video and audio formats. It is recommended that all the faithful brothers and sisters across the world who could not be here make use of this facility put into place especially for them.
In addition to the evening meetings, Bro. Miki spoke at 2 sessions reserved for people active in leadership roles in their respective churches. These meetings gave all involved a renewed sense of what it really means to be called to serve the Lord and to be a servant in His kingdom. Each person walked out with a substantially improved understanding of the responsibility attached to taking care of, and carrying the heart of the Lord to, His flock.
On Friday morning, all delegates were given an overview of the last year's National Conferences and Follow-up Visits, Financial Data, well as a brief presentation on a new and growing activity across the churches that CTMI works in close relationships with - Fundraising. Once again, many visitors came away with a deeper understanding of the work of CTMI and its impact on the lives of pastors and churches across the nations.
Two novelties this year were the provision of a cyber-cafe allowing visitors to check their e-mail on the spot. A tuck-shop was also set up allowing delegates to enjoy drinks, snacks and coffees etc. In addition to this, a large team of ladies looked after the service of some 250 meals daily in the hall when good times of fellowship were enjoyed along with the tasty Indian Ocean dishes.
A few of first-time visitors had this to say about the week:
"It's been worth it being here. I have been able to see what the Lord is doing (in his church) globally. My life has been turned upside down by this revelation of the cross"
Henry Masaba, Zambia.
"God has done a real transformation in some areas of my life. Truly, I was blessed through this conference and I wish the team to conduct the same conference in many places in India to build the kingdom of God." Raja Paul Gajendran, India.
"This conference and time in Mauritius has helped me realise that living for God is completely by His grace and not by my own strength, understanding, or planning!" Marcelle Bone, U.K.
Below are a few photos of what took place during a very exciting and challenging week.
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