—Ephesians 4:12-13
2022 National Retreat
Twenty-four ministers and leaders gathered at the St. Benedict's Retreat Center in Schuyler, Nebraska, committed to a time of retreat, discovery of story, and fun. We enjoyed hearing from internationally acclaimed Storyteller, Rev. Donald Davis, as well as from amongst our own colleagues, Revs. Cheryl Harris and Lin Story-Bunce. Together, they tapped into the artful crafting of compelling storytelling while examining our own stories, while in turn encouraging us to be attentive to the ongoing stories of others.
We also enjoyed an exploratory lecture about the Heritage Version of the Saint John's Illuminated Bible which is housed here at St. Benedict's, guided by historian David Crawford. We were all drawn in by the incredible art and intentionality of the project. Truly a great subject for visio divina, which we did have opportunity to dive into.
What is the Ministers Council?
We are an independent, non-profit organization of ordained, commission, licensed and lay Christian leaders. Seminarians are also eligible for membership and encouraged to join.
We are the only ABC organization dedicated solely to the well-being of ministers. We serve in increasingly diverse settings including the local church, specialized ministries of chaplaincy, counseling, coaching and spiritual direction, as well as administration, education and community organizing. (read more/less)
Individuals are eligible for membership in this body if they are eligible for inclusion in the Leadership Status list maintained by the American Baptist Churches Information System (ABCIS) and if they pay national dues to this body.
What Do We Do?
We nurture, encourage, and strengthen more than 2000 clergy, counselors, seminarians, and lay leaders. We provide fellowshipping opportunities; spiritual enrichment; and educational programming to fuel the effectiveness of the men and women called of God to advance the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
What Do We Provide?
- Support for regionally based Ministers Council chapters
- Annual gatherings, workshops, retreats for respite, and spiritual and professional development
- Models and best practice guidelines for creating clergy peer groups
- Informative articles and writings for ministers
- Discounts to value-added services through partnerships
- A sense of community for clergy so that no one has to go it alone
How Can You Support the Ministers Council?
Give to our Together in Ministry Fund, which expands the program of clergy peer group learning.
