Columbia Union Hosts Evangelism Workshop, Engages Future Pastors

TAKOMA PARK, Md. — The Columbia Union hosted an evangelism workshop from Feb. 25-28 at the Hershey Lodge in Pennsylvania, attracting pastors from eight different conferences. The Washington Adventist University’s religion department, including both faculty and students, participated, seizing the opportunity to engage in this pivotal gathering.

Dr. Scur, an associate professor of religion at Washington Adventist University, accompanied the students throughout the workshop, emphasizing the event’s significance in preparing future pastors. “Evangelism is a principal responsibility for future pastors,” Dr. Scur said. “Our students are preparing to take on this role by gaining knowledge and skills in a critical part of their ministry. The training was comprehensive, covering theoretical understanding and fundamental skills in evangelism, which is vital for their future work.”

During the conference, students had the opportunity to attend various presentations and benefited significantly from breakout sessions, where they could select from a range of workshops for more intimate participation. These sessions particularly highlighted the keynote speakers’ candid perspectives, intriguing topics, and compelling presentations.

“It was a refreshing experience for the students,” Dr. Scur noted. “The importance of evangelism in their pastoral duties was reinforced, and they were invigorated with new ideas and practical suggestions. The sessions offered practical insights and radical theological perspectives on evangelism, proving immensely beneficial for our students. The diversity of the speakers, each bringing different theological views, added a unique strength to the workshop’s overall delivery.”

The event concluded with a poignant moment led by the president of the Columbia Union, who shared his evangelism experiences. Participants lit candles, symbolizing their renewed dedication to evangelism.

Washington Adventist University and its religion department expressed profound gratitude to the Columbia Union for funding the students’ full participation in the event, highlighting the workshop’s importance in nurturing future pastoral leaders.