Grambling State University will host its first minister’s conference March 25-27 to strengthen ties between local churches and the university. The three-day event will allow clergy to network and discuss issues that impact many churches, according to John Rosenthall, Grambling’s vice president of research, advancement and economic development.
“We want to bring all our ministers back -- all our sons of Grambling who are now in the ministry -- and for the group of ministers to communicate with each other, help each other, and mentor each other and mentor students on campus who’ve received the calling,” Rosenthall said.
Rev. Darrell White is pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Alexandria, Va., and a 1981 graduate of Grambling. White will address the ministers at the opening worship service Wednesday evening. White applauds his alma mater for gathering clergy together.
“There are few opportunities for clergy to come together to receive this kind of inspiration, encouragement, instruction and even fellowship, equipping them for the task of ministry,” White said.
Rosenthall says topics are designed to strengthen the ecumenical community, like pastoral leadership, conflict resolution, and business matters.
“Some topics that have come up: How do I grow my church? How do I increase my youth participation in church? How do I train my church officers? How do we discuss fundraising within the church? It’s all the things that would make a minister a better pastor,” Rosenthall said.
The workshop is free. Registration ends Friday, March 20, and is open to the first 250 participants. Wednesday’s worship service will honor Dr. E. Edward Jones, pastor emeritus of Galilee Baptist Church in Shreveport.
For more information about the conference call (318) 274-2217 or email wrightr@gram.edu.
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