June 2018 Covenanter

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THE

EAST COAST COVENANTER A TRIANNUAL PUBLICATION OF THE EAST COAST CONFERENCE OF THE EVANGELICAL COVENANT CHURCH

SUMMER 2018 HOWARD K. BURGOYNE

SUPERINTENDENT EAST COAST CONFERENCE

REFLECTIONS ON A FOURTH TERM Well the 128th Annual Meeting has spoken, and in their collective vote I have heard confirmation of the Lord’s counsel, and the conference board’s encouragement, that I continue to serve you as Conference Superintendent into a fourth term (2018-2022, Lord willing). Thank you for sending delegates to Annual Meeting to contribute to this discernment about our shared ministry. I am energized and joyful in the task, committed to keeping my “hands on the plow” of apostolic ministry. It is humbling and empowering to receive your continued support. We have a great board and a great staff team working together. I take this occasion as we move into summer to envision with you several aspects of the hope and confidence I have in looking ahead with you into the coming four years: First, this summer I am greatly encouraged by what God is doing among us. Churches are being planted, Pilgrim Pines and Camp Squanto is being renewed in facilities

IN THIS

ISSUE: issuu.com/eastcoastcovenanter

Over these next four years I am confident that the Lord Jesus will advance His mission in and through us in a deeper intimacy and boldness in prayer, a stronger outpouring of love and generosity, a broader expression of churches planting churches, and a clearer witness to the Gospel through evangelism, preaching and justice.

and programming, and much outreach is being planned by churches. I then plan to enter into rest late in the fall, by taking a Sabbatical provided by the Board, in November and December. I look forward to what the Lord will share with me during that time of prayer, reflection, and rest. Second, I am preparing our staff for the opportunities and challenges of this next season. Collectively, we are preparing for the spiritual work of resourcing all of our congregations through increasingly intentional church planting, discipleship & leadership training, greater congregational vitality, and generosity in stewardship. All of this calls for a deeper faith in the risen Christ, a deeper confidence in the power of the Spirit, and a deeper joy in the love of God the Father.

What may this look like? By the end of 2022 – I foresee the potential for 25 new churches planted by local church partnerships; the ongoing formation of 3,500 new disciples; the growth of 6 church networks serving collaboratively; over 200 ordained/ licensed ministers serving in unity; women and men sharing ministry equally; 130 churches/15,000 disciples serving God together! Apart from Him, we can do nothing; in union with Him, all things are possible!

Third, I call you to earnest prayer for the advancement of God’s Kingdom in us, and through us. “Christ in you” is the hope of glory – and Christ through you is the promise of faithful and fruitful witness.

On the move,

Have a question for Howard?

Email him at howard@eastcoastconf.org From the Superintendent:

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Recap of the 128th Annual Meeting A Church That Dreams A Prayer for Congregational Vitality Better Together

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“Reflections on a Fourth Term"

Discipling & Leadership Around the Conference

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 facebook.com/eastcoastconf

Four More Women in the Pulpit Church Planting Update

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When You Don't Know Where to Start, Start With Why! Save the Dates Transitions

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NY, MA, and RI

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 eastcoastconf.org

EAST COAST CONFERENCE 52 Missionary Road Cromwell, CT 06416 860.635.2691

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