Dr. Dave Guiles leads a session at the East Focus Retreat.
More than 60 pastors from states along the Atlantic coast are gathered this week in Ocean City, Md., for the East Focus Retreat. They have gathered at the Holiday Inn and Suites and are meeting at a nearby church.
Dr. Dave Guiles, executive director of Encompass World Partners, is leading the 48-hour retreat, which like others held this fall, is focusing on “Shaping the Future.” It is designed to begin the conversation about the Charis Commitment to Common Identity, a summary document of the biblical convictions, mutual commitment, and common practices for the Grace Brethren movement in North America.
Monday, the group gathered on the steps of the hotel to celebrate communion led by Tim Hodge and Brad Gromis of Grace Family Church, New Holland, Pa. On Tuesday afternoon, free time allowed for the pastors to gather for lunch at area restaurants, have fellowship, or engage in other activities. Tonight (Tuesday), Bartley Sawatsky, executive director of the Fellowship of Grace Brethren Churches and pastor of Grace Community Church, Mississauga, Ontario, is sharing “A Celebration of Biblical Mission: Taking pride in the tribe!”
The retreat concludes Wednesday morning.
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