A Source of Encouragement • Helping to Fortify the

THE ANNUAL GATHERING:

A SOURCE OF ENCOURAGEMENT

By Leslie R Harris

The Annual Gathering for me is an opportunity to engage in Christian fellowship with other believers and ministers. It provides a space to come together in community as the family of God; and to be reminded that the Body of Christ extends far beyond our local congregations. We get a chance to listen to those who are also at work building the Kingdom of God and persevering in the faith. Through the workshops, master classes, worship services and training sessions, we are able to learn, grow, to be encouraged and to be a source of encouragement. It is like attending a reunion every year where we come together and see old friends, meet new friends. and enjoy a time of worship, teaching, preaching and take care of the business of doing God’s work here on earth.

The Greek word koinonia is defined as Christian fellowship. It is what Philippians 2:1 (NIV) refers to as “our common sharing in the Spirit.” At the Annual Gathering we get to interact with those with whom we share Christian beliefs and embrace the diversity of the expressions of our faith. We get to see and hear what God is doing in and through the lives of fellow Christians throughout the DMV area and beyond. I am excited to gather with other believers in Christ who will magnify the Lord with me as we exalt his name together.

Will you join us? I would love to meet you.

Leslie R Harris is the Ministry Associate at Wisconsin Avenue Baptist Church in Washington, DC.