2024 Post Conference Report by Pastor HAm
Psalms 133 says, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.“ This verse describes our 5th Make Us One Conference event. In every aspect of the conference, we experienced the presence and blessing of the Lord upon us.
The Concert of Prayer is what launches the Make Us One Conference, and as in previous years, we lift up Jesus Christ in worship and prayer with the expectation that He will draw people to Himself and people to people. One of the pastors in attendance made the following observation, “Coming together as one body in Christ to pray not only unifies us but also aligns our hearts with God’s purposes……This call to oneness was felt as prayers for healing, restoration, and revival filled the atmosphere.”
The Market Place Ministry Fair continues to thrive as Christian ministry and business leaders show how integrating work and ministry is effectively advancing the gospel of Jesus Christ and His kingdom throughout our region. In frank and open dialogue, the two Panel Discussions encouraged our hearts to pursue unity in personal and church relationships because the benefits far outweigh the challenges in our society.
Our two Keynote Speakers powerfully communicated God’s heart about unity. Rabbi Jim Appel provided an eye-opening understanding of the creation of the one new man, as spoken of in Ephesians chapter 2, which brings together in oneness both Jew and Gentile. Dr. Joe Mattera spoke of the difference between unity and oneness. He said, “unity is the process. Oneness is the product. Unity depends upon an event. Oneness transcends an event and knits people together.”
Finally, the Worship Team cultivated the right atmosphere which kept us in God’s presence and in the unity of the Holy Spirit. The Make Us One conference does not seek to create oneness, but we are pressing on to take hold of the oneness for which Christ has taken hold of us. In John 17:22-23 (NLT), Jesus prayed, “I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one. I am in them, and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.”
We are very grateful for all the volunteers representing many different churches, who served so diligently and sacrificially. Please be praying for the 2025 Make Us One Conference. We hope to see you there!