December 27-31, 2007
"Self Control"
In Peter's second letter, we learn that self-control is a crucial part of becoming effective servants. It is also mentioned in the description of the fruit of the Spirit in Galations 5, but is it neglected in our personal conversation and vocabulary? Self-control is a key duty for a disciple of Christ, but the practice can be an unpleasant activity for us. Learning to control ourselves is a lifelong endeavor with plenty of chances for failure, frustration, and success. At this year's Williamsburg Conference we will consider many applications of the skill of controlling ourselves such as humility, peacefulness, contentment, self-sacrifice, generosity, gentleness, kindness, and patience. Lord willing, we will develop better self-control and support each other through discussions, classes, and prayers.
The Goal
God is a very real and powerful being. The goal of the Conference has always been to magnify God's presence in our lives. Each year, the theme of the Conference is chosen with the aim of motivating us to lift our eyes to Him and to see Him for what He is and what He wants us to be.
The Structure
Morning sessions are devoted to building an understanding of the chosen theme through numerous sets of scriptural readings, exhortations, and hymns. Periods of quiet meditation throughout the morning allow us to focus on the personal implications of what we have considered and on our individual relationships with God.
The afternoons are devoted to smaller group sessions that again center around the theme. The goal is to discuss how we can apply the thoughts developed in the morning sessions to our own service. Group leaders guide but should never dominate the discussions. Group selection is purely random, so there is no age segregation and many brothers and sisters meet for the first time. This is all intentional. Participants find that they are able to speak from the heart and, for this reason, many consider the afternoons extremely beneficial and the heart of the Conference.
Evening programs are more relaxed and varied. Usually, a music program will occupy one evening, a discussion about spreading the gospel may occupy another.
Care and classes for young children will be available, with parent participation. Please reply if you are willing to help teach a children's class for one hour during the Conference.
Please plan to join us for several days of intensive spiritual growth and introspection--a period of close fellowship with our God and our spiritual family.
The Williamsburg Conference Committee
