The Diocese of Florida held their annual Clergy Conference at the Cathedral Church of the Resurrection in Miramar Florida this past November 13th and 14th. The event began with an informal reception for the clergy and wives hosted by Bishop David and Toni Simpson at their home.
On Saturday morning everyone gathered together for the opening meeting, then the wives enjoyed a day out together for lunch and a visit to Butterfly World after meeting together; and the men began the day with Morning Prayer, followed by a presentation given by Bishop David Epps (Diocese of the Mid-South) on church planting and church growth. Bishop Epps is one the most successful ‘Church Planters’ in the North-american Church, and he shared ideas and practical advise gleaned over many years of ministry and in many differing environments.
A report on the State of the Church was presented by Bishop David Simpson, followed by a report on the Holloway Family, given by Bishops Simpson & Epps, a presentation of Diocesan Confirmation Standards by Fr. Scott Looker, and a report on Tres Arroyos by Fr. Bill Sharpe. Tres Arroyos is a “three streams” Cursillio Weekend developed in the Diocese of Florida – and the first two weekend dates were announced – a men’s weekend February 18-21, 2010 and a Women’s weekend February 25-28, 2010. The Weekends will be held at the Chapel of Divine Mercy, Deland, Florida.
The conference concluded with a presentation of the new ICCEC shield, and a review of the upcoming year, including the Lenten Retreat (March 17-20 at the Chapel of Divine Mercy), the Provincial Council (June 16-18 in Selma, AL), and Bishop Simpson’s travel schedule. The clergy and their wives ended their time together with a celebration of the Holy Eucharist, with Bishop Simpson as the Celebrant.
