2007 IBMA Retreat Report
2007 IBMA Retreat Report
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| by Larry HippsThe 2007 retreat was a great meeting – one of the best in recent years. We had folks attending from seven states, the furthest one coming from Alaska. I think the only way it could have been better would be if every member of the International Bus Ministry Association could have been present.
We had a diverse group from all size churches and ministries this year and that made for an enthusiastic discussion. God made us a group quickly and we started sharing ideas, problems, successes, and needs right from the beginning. We started the retreat on Monday night at the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant with good food and fellowship as we got to make new friends and catch up with old ones. |
| On Tuesday morning we started the discussion by asking the question, “What would happen to your Bus Ministry if you were to leave?” A few of those attending shared that the Bus Ministry is so incorporated in the church that the ministry would keep going no matter what. Most shared that their Bus Ministry would probably die a slow death if they were to leave. This was followed by the question, “Why is the Sunday School something that the church would never think about stopping if someone left, but often the Bus Ministry soon comes to an end when a key person leaves?” It was a great dialogue and a super way to launch our time together. |  |
| We continued the discussion by talking about obtaining and keeping workers – a need everyone shared. We also watched a DVD of one of the ministries represented. Before we knew it, it was already noon and time to stop for the day. | |
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Part of the design of the retreat is that we take some time to rest and recharge so we purposely have free time on Tuesday afternoon and evening. All the attendees had no problem finding ways to enjoy their time off – some visited the outlet malls, went to Gatlinburg, drove up into the Great Smoky Mountains, played golf or just took it easy at the hotel. One group went to the Dixie Stampede – that’s one of the best things about having the retreat in this area, there are lots of family attractions and things to do. It is a great place for fun, taking it easy and a “working vacation.” |
| Wednesday morning we talked about the program on the bus, promotions that had worked (everyone’s favorite was “Money Cup Cakes” - IBMA members got complete details on this promotion in their e-newsletter), and then we ended with any questions that anyone had. | |
| One of the neat things about the retreat is that someone present has a useful answer to every question that arises. Once again, it was 12:00 before we knew it and time to go. We all said our good byes and promised to stay in touch with our new friends. It was a profitable time with people of “like heart.”Next year’s retreat is scheduled back at the Comfort Inn Apple Valley in Pigeon Forge, TN and the dates will be March 10 – 12, 2008. I hope you will mark the dates on the calendar and start planning now to join us for another exciting three day retreat. |  |
| Note: If you’re reading this report and you are not a member of the IBMA, let me encourage you to join. Your entire church will share the membership and the only requirement is that you have an active bus/van ministry. You can get details by clicking the photo below and I hope we’ll be hearing from you soon.And, don’t forget, 100% of those attending the retreat would recommend it to others. | |
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| 100% of the 2007 Retreat Attendees said they would recommend the retreat to others. Start planning now to join us for the 2008 Retreat! |
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