The Whetstone Conference was held for the first time in 1993. Preachers and missionaries who had been sent out from Mount Calvary Baptist Church were invited back for a few days of fellowship, instruction, and refreshment. This year's conference was the fifth gathering (the conference convenes every three to four years), and this was my third opportunity to attend. The theme for this year was For a Closer Walk with God (see here). Speakers included Tony Payne, Mark Minnick, Peter Davis, Bruce McAllister, Gary Bill, Thurmond Wisdom, Dan Brooks, Nathan Crockett, Tim Bixby, Robert Vincent, Steve Hankins, Ken Hay, Gary Wilcox sat in on the panel discussion, and Tom Sims (my pastor). The women listened to Linda Minnick, Joan Hufstetler, Patty Whitcomb, and Cathy Payne.
The conference began on Tuesday evening and continued through Friday evening. Each morning the men gathered together for breakfast at the church. During the days the men enjoyed four sessions while the women met for sessions before an after lunch. Each evening we met together for a General Session of worship in music and the preaching of the Word.
Tim and I have discussed our desire to share some highlights from the conference and we will do that over the next few days, or so. There are a number of things that we would like to share. The Lord used this conference in a very definite way in my life. I was sharpened by the Word and the fellowship of many brethren. My wife also was blessed by the time spent in fellowship with the women.
One of the other highlights was the bookstore. What a sight: a bookstore full of preachers! The selection was fantastic and the prices were superb. Ps. Robert Vincent did a great job of stocking the store with excellent commentaries, biographies, and theological works. I came home with a very nice stack of books. We also were able to select a number of books for our church library.
Well, we'll say more over the next few days.
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