On May 23rd and 24th, a two-day pastors leadership training workshop led by Rev. Dr. Thinakaran Richard in the Diocese conference hall. Bishop Pathmathayalan moderated the sessions, officers of the diocese also participating to foster a collaborative spirit. The workshop aimed to empower church leaders with practical strategies and spiritual guidance, focusing on key themes such as “How to Build a Church” and “How to Mold a Disciple.”
Rev. Dr. Richard stressed the importance of establishing a strong foundation for building a church, drawing from both contemporary practices and biblical principles. He highlighted Apostle Paul’s strategies for church growth and disciple-making, sharing insights from Paul’s letters. A particularly relevant passage was shared from 1 Corinthians 3:10-11: “According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it. Let each one take care how he builds upon it. For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”
Interactive sessions engaged participants in exploring Paul’s missionary journeys, his approach to nurturing new believers, and his methods for establishing resilient church communities. The workshop provided a comprehensive framework for modern-day application of these timeless strategies through case studies and group discussions.
As Dietrich Bonhoeffer, said, “The Church is the Church only when it exists for others.” This quote emphasized the workshop’s focus on outward-focused ministry and disciple-making.
The event concluded with a Q&A session, allowing pastors to address specific challenges they face in their ministries and receive personalized advice from Rev. Dr. Richard. The workshop was hailed as a valuable opportunity for pastors to deepen their leadership skills and enhance their church-building efforts.
In the Sri Lankan context, this training is particularly significant. As the country navigates social and economic challenges, strong church leadership can provide essential support and guidance to communities. By equipping pastors with effective strategies for church growth and disciple-making, the workshop helps ensure that local churches remain resilient and relevant, offering hope and stability to their congregations.
– JDCSI Communications
