August 2026

COORDINATING THE CONTRASTS

Ministry is filled with experiences that are very different from one another. I remember early in ministry feeling that distinctly when I was at the hospital celebrating with a family on the birth of a new baby and then going to a different hospital to be at the bedside with a family who’s loved one had passed away. Life and death – two distinct experiences!

Leaders can experience celebrating with someone whose life was changed by the power of the gospel only to be met by a church attender who is critical about the church service. Celebration and criticism – two distinct experiences!

Pastors can experience even more contrasts by joining a man and woman together in holy matrimony the same week after meeting with a couple in the church whose marriage is fractured and possibly ending. Marriage and divorce – two distinct experiences!

These contrasts create a variety of experiences that can feel like an emotional roller coaster. These highs and lows can drain us in many ways. But they also enable us to love people deeply whether in the valley or on the mountaintop. None of us knows what a day or week in ministry may hold; but we know who holds us and those we serve and that He is good and faithful in the storms and the sunshine. Paul, the apostle, referred to the contrasts of life and how he responded to them. In Philippians 4, Paul shared that he knew what it was to be in need and he knew what it was to have plenty. Then he shared the key: I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.

Join me in a life of contentment,

Bruce Pfadenhauer, Regional Director

The GATHERING, our fall event for pastors and leaders in Central Region, will be held September 28-30, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency in Coralville, IA.  Our theme is Mobilized to Multiply, aligning with our national vision, Mission to Multiply, this gathering is designed to help you and your leaders gain new vision & fresh momentum. Our featured speaker, Dr. Larry Walkemeyer (Director of Equipping for Exponential and author of 13 books), has spent over 30 years leading multiplying churches and training leaders nationwide. His heart for equipping leaders will leave your team inspired and ready for growth.

Bring your leaders and come ready to experience personal renewal along with shared vision this fall in Coralville, IA!

⏳ Registration closes in 3 weeks. Don’t miss out!

Click here for more details and to register!