Gathering Every Winter

In two weeks, pastors from across the country will be gathered at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School for the annual EFCA Theology Conference. 

The Swedish Evangelical Free Church Ministerial began meeting in 1893 once or twice a year for fellowship and personal growth: the theological sessions were linked with the business meetings. Eventually, the theological sessions were held separately, at the Mid-winter Ministerial, which became the EFCA Theology Conference.

Pastors eagerly come long distances to hear from respected leaders and teachers as they expound God’s word on vital topics of the day.

As Swedish pastors gathered every year for fellowship, they were also encouraged and trained through great preaching and practical sessions on church leadership. At that time, many pastors were lay preachers, though some had limited formal Bible Institute training.

The Danish-Norwegian Evangelical Free Church began holding similar events for its pastors in the mid-1890s as well. In the photo, the Danish-Norwegian group is shown standing outside the Clintonville, Wisconsin church in 1893.

The formal Ministerial Association of the past is now known as the EFCA Network, encouraging pastors in many ways as they face the realities of their work.

God has used all of these gatherings to challenge, encourage and promote fellowship among the pastors. This year, the theme of the EFCA Theology Conference is, “The Doctrine of God” from Article 1 of our Statement of Faith.

Will you be attending the 2023 EFCA Theology Conference?