Virtual Sabbath Conference

ONLINE - “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).

This verse can provide great comfort for us all, but for thirteen non-pastoral church workers and volunteers in Lutheran ChurchCanada in particular, this passage also served as focal verse for this year’s Sabbath Conference, which had the theme “Mental health in the time of COVID-19.” In keeping with COVID restrictions, this conference was held virtually May 17-18 and was graciously hosted using the technology of Concordia Lutheran Seminary in Edmonton.

Audrey Werner, a Director of Christian Education from Austin, Texas, served as main speaker and guided the group through an exploration of how crucial faith is, especially during a time of crisis. Rev. Robert Mohns, West Regional Pastor, graciously joined as Bible study leader with sessions focusing on the relationship between God’s Word and the mind, body, and spirit, and how the mind matters.

There were also presentations from Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada, the BC Mission Boat Society, and Concordia Lutheran Seminary (all of whom were participants of the conference). Those gathered were able to break into smaller groups to have a time to share blessings and concerns, and to pray with each other. There was also time for fellowship and games, and even though many miles separated the participants, the gift of fun was still exceedingly present!

The Sabbath Conference is an annual conference that serves an important role in connecting non-pastoral church workers and volunteers across Canada in a way that is tailored specifically to their unique calling. The planning committee is greatly appreciative of those who supported the conference, those who sponsored the conference, those who prayed for the conference, and for those who attended the conference.

Dcn. Amanda Hastings for the Sabbath planning committee