The network impact can be found all over my ministry and leadership. From heathy boundaries and self care to stewardship and empowering laity, it has been one of the strongest influences on everything I do as a senior pastor. For any young pastor, this opportunity is one of the most helpful resources you will receive outside of seminary. It is an experience you cannot pass up!

It was the experience I credit with forming me into the leader I am today. The time with successful and spiritual leaders and being able to interact with them in their home churches still informs my role as a conference NCD director.

At the time, I was a young pastor serving my first full-time appointment, feeling overwhelmed, isolated, and alone, as many in that position do. But this network offered me hope – a hope that has sustained me to this day. If I had the chance to do it all over again, I wouldn’t hesitate! The Emerging Clergy Network was truly an opportunity of a lifetime – one that continues to bless me and those I serve, even after more than a decade.

For me this was an “iron sharpens iron” type of community where my vision, passion, leadership and faith grew with each conversation and teaching. In a system where young leaders can feel very alone and often discounted, this opportunity provided connection, support and empowerment that has carried me through my ministry career and beyond.

The opportunity to learn from effective leaders with track records was invaluable. And, their humility was inspiring. I have a vivid memory of Adam talking to me like I was an equal peer and not someone at the beginning of the ministry journey. It was also great to meet pastors in similar settings in other conferences. It was very encouraging to get their feedback and advice.

Being in the Network gave me the skills to serve churches in a way that helps them to recognize and respond to God’s vision for such a time as this. It also gave me connections across the United Methodist Church with young colleagues who are doing amazing Kingdom work!

The Network was the most practical continuing education I have ever had. It prepared me for leading churches in practical and relevant ways that I am able to apply to every aspect of ministry.

My experience in the Network instilled in me leadership principles, decades of large church leadership wisdom, and a network of relationships and connections that I draw upon daily.

Being part of the Network gave me the courage to take risks and step boldly into new realms of ministry, reshaping my calling in ways that continually amaze me.

I went through the Network gatherings ten years ago and it’s still showing up in my ministry life today. I’m so grateful for the investment in future ministry!

Through this program, I gained deep gratitude for Adam and Mike’s mentorship, holy boldness in stewarding God-given vision, and lasting relationships with colleagues across the country.