On Tuesday, August 6, all of the ministry staff from around New England met for our annual staff meeting, picnic and play day.  This year was especially exciting, as we met at a new location – Douglass State Forest.  This park’s address is in Massachusetts, but also borders Connecticut and Rhode Island.  A beautiful beach area was surrounded by numerous picnic tables, open green grass and trees.  God’s creation was in full evidence.

At 10:45, singing rang out glorifying God.  Murvi Babalola, little big Kwas and others led us in several songs of praise and worship.  The short, but powerful lesson for the day was delivered by Jesse Ghoman.  He took the story of Gideon and inspired us to faith.  His point was that God can take the least and make it the most.   God can take a little and make it a lot. Phrases like, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior” and “Go in the strength you have” from Judges 6 set the tone for the day.

However, the goal of this year’s event was that the day not be remembered for a meeting.  We wanted to emphasize the picnic and play day portion of our activities.  Food and fellowship lasted a while, but then Cash McHargue led us through about an hour of group games – throwing horseshoes, flinging Frisbees, tossing Corn Hole and more.  Winners were declared, but laughter and bonding abounded for all.

And then, free-lance fun began. Some went fishing.  Others sat by the lake.  A volleyball game broke out.  Later in the afternoon, all began to leave.  And we left with the united vision to keep sharing God’s good news, as well as keep rejoicing in His glory and beauty.

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