The following blog post is by Anitha Abraham. Anitha lives in Dallas, TX with her family, is involved in leadership at her local church and also leads a women’s ministry named Whispers and Fringes. She shares her experiences from the Advance 2019 Conference.
I don’t fit the exact profile of an Advance Initiative attendee. I am not a church-planter but I am an Indian-American in ministry. My husband and I serve at our local, multi-ethnic church as elders. Along with that, I lead a women’s ministry group.
Over the past couple of years, I have been struggling with my identity as an Indian-American specifically in regards to ministry. That is why the theme of the Dallas 2018 conference caught my attention: Being A Christian Indian in America. It was in my hometown but honestly, I wasn’t sure if I would know anyone there or not … but that was fine. I was ready to get some answers.
And sure enough, I did.
So, attending the 2019 National Conference was not even a question for me, especially when I found out it was in Dallas again. My husband was able to join me for some of the meetings as well … and we both agreed that we were glad we attended.
Every session offered valuable insight into the theme of “Ordinary People. Extraordinary God.” Again, I was reminded of my unique role as an Indian-American in ministry. I was encouraged that even though I am not a pastor, I still have a part in expanding the Kingdom of God.
The quality of the conference speakers was incredible. It was obvious they had prepared and each one spoke with anointing, wisdom and revelation. I was most surprised by the “Honor & Shame” breakout session. It was something I knew was a part of our culture but had never heard it explained the way the panel did.
It was also a wonderful opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. Living in the Bible belt, there are many wonderful churches and conferences in our area. However, none offer what Advance Initiative does for me as an Indian-American specifically. I was affirmed in my ethnicity but challenged in my calling. I walked away from this year’s conference understanding that I have something to offer no matter what ministry setting I am in.
In my multi-ethnic church, I can be a “bridge-builder” as my pastor put it. With the Indian population growing rapidly in the United States, it is becoming increasingly important for the “American” church to understand our culture even more.
In my own ministry, it is apparent that Indian women in particular are drawn to our group and that’s okay too. Pastor Tony’s message called “Why Us?” reminded me that we as Indian-Americans have a distinct opportunity to reach out to our own people as well. Because we personally understand the culture and challenges, we can share from our experience and faith the “reason for the hope that is in us”.
I can’t say enough about this conference and look forward to attending again next year. Thanks to the team for their hard work in putting it together – it is making a difference.