That description is no where near accurate in terms of my real experience. The bottom line is that this experience sparked an “old-fashioned revival” in me. I didn’t expect to feel the presence of God in worship every day or to be challenged in my faith by people i had never even heard of. I wasn’t prepared to be in a room filled with the most diverse group of professionals I have ever seen, who were all passionate about the kind of intrinsic community transformation that I have spent the last several years studying and dreaming about being a part of. This conference also provided loads of practical, relevant information so that I didn’t just sit and discuss theory, but walked away every day with tools that could be incorporated into my professional, personal and spiritual life immediately.

The message that came through the clearest to me during the 3 1/2 days of conference was that everything we do must be done in love. Real, honest love for other people and for all God’s creation must be at the core of every word, every act of service, and every attempt at positive change. Period. No excuses. It is from this life-altering love that all else flows: the ability to hear God’s lead, the desire to listen, and the passion to serve those who are hurting. Love is more than a fluffy word or an excuse but is instead what leads to grace and is how others see Christ in us.

This experience has made a lasting impact on me and attending future CCDA conferences will be a priority.