The NAFWB Convention: A Preview

In four days my lovely wife and I will be traveling to Cincinnati, OH for the 73rd annual convention for the National Association of Free Will Baptists.

I always look forward to the convention. There is a lot of energy and excitement in the air when 5,000 of the most conservative people you will ever meet converge on a city. Let’s face it, even for those FWB’s some might consider “progressive,” the doctrine most hold is very conservative (except I’m not sure if repeated regeneration–for those FWBs that believe that–would be considered conservative or extremely liberal??).

Anyway, here are some things I’m looking forward to about the convention this year.

1. Working with the National Youth Conference (NYC) band and speakers in the teen services. I get to be the coordinator for these services. Jordan Ledbetter is the worship leader. He is surrounded by an incredibly talented group of musicians. They will be leading the teens in worship for all of the teen services at the NYC. I’ve heard them practice a little and from what I’ve heard, they’re really really good. AND the drum set used is navy blue with orange trim–sweet! On top of that, I think the lineup of speakers this year is one of the best in a long time. Cameron Lane is teaching Sunday School, Tommy Swindol for Sunday morning, Jason Taylor for Sunday night, Allen Pointer for Monday night, and Ken Ham for Tuesday night. Even after all of that there will be a few more new things we’re trying this year that I’m hoping will go over well.

2. The Reds game on Saturday night. I think Lynsey and I might play “spot the Free Will Baptist” at the Reds game. I am guessing there will be many FWB’s at the game Saturday versus the Brewers. The Reds are a young, talented (although streaky) team playing another young, probably more talented team in the Brew Crew. And Prince Fielder just won the homerun derby last night, and Great American Ballpark is prone to the long ball. So we might just see a high-scoring, exciting game. The Reds are the oldest team in MLB history. AND they’re my favorite. Plus, GABP is really gorgeous.

3. An exclusive meeting about something having to do with twentysomethings. If you get an invitation, you’ll know more about it. See you there. I’m really excited about this.