Malawi-2023 Annual Conference
By Patrick Readson
To God be the glory!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering and generous support that enables us to advance our ministry in Malawi. In this blog we share the remarkable impact of your donations, especially with regard to the Annual Conference of August 2023. We conducted this event in the heart of Blantyre, the second largest city in Malawi. It proved to be a testament to the power of faith with believers joining together as one community in Christ. Thanks to your contributions, we were able to orchestrate a conference that not only celebrated our shared beliefs but also provided guidance, encouragement, and hope to our community. To God be the glory!
Gathering the Faithful…
The conference was a gathering of immense significance. Over 39 churches from many locations united as one, setting aside denominational differences and embracing the common thread that binds us together, which is our faith in Jesus Christ. We conduct two conferences each year in Blantyre: the Easter Conference and the Annual General Conference. These gatherings serve as pillars of spiritual strength by shaping our faith and guiding our actions throughout the year. It is during these gatherings that we come together as a community, learning, growing, and renewing our commitment to Christ and one another.
With Grateful Hearts…
The 2023 General Conference was a resounding success, made possible in large part through generous financial support. Donations provided through Disciplers International helped us meet the various costs associated with organizing this event and ensuring that it was accessible to as many people as possible. Your generosity helped us keep registration fees affordable to ensure that people from all walks of life could participate. Furthermore, it allowed us to offer scholarships to those needing assistance to attend. Your support was instrumental in fostering a sense of community and belonging among all participants.
Our Two-fold Theme…
The theme this year was "Discipleship and Community Healing," which resonated well in view of a recent catastrophe earlier this year. Malawi had been grappling with the aftermath of Cyclone Freddy, which devastated many communities. With that adversity in view, we aimed to provide solace, encouragement and unity, while equipping attendees to "make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19).
Our Common Purpose…
The conference drew over 3,000 attendees, creating a space for people to come together, share their experiences, and find strength in their faith. The workshops and seminars on discipleship were particularly impactful, emphasizing the importance of living out our faith in tangible ways. As the people of Malawi work towards healing, the teachings on discipleship offer a beacon of hope and guidance.
Our Future Hope…
Your support is instrumental in facilitating conferences like this, where faith is strengthened, unity is forged, and communities are healed. We invite all of you, our esteemed donors, to join hands with us in continuing this vital ministry. Your donations have already made a profound difference, and your prayers have provided spiritual sustenance to our community. We extend heartfelt thanks to all who support the mission and ministries of Disciplers International. Your commitment to advancing the Great Commission of Jesus has touched countless lives and helped us grow in our faith. As we continue on this faith journey, let us remember Jesus’ words about unity; "Where two or three gather in my name, there I am in their midst." (Matthew 18:20). Together, we can be a force for good by spreading love, hope, and faith.
With heartfelt gratitude and warmest regards,
Patrick & Mervis Readson, Malawi
