Coping with the challenges of change in life is the conference theme.

Coping with the challenges of change in life is the
conference theme.

By LINDA M. LINONIS

VINDICATOR RELIGION EDITOR

YOUNGSTOWN — If there’s one thing you can count on in life (aside from death and taxes), it’s that nothing stays the same.

An intensive Pentecost in Perspective Leadership Conference with the theme “A Midnight Shift,” focusing on change, has attracted some 1,000 people to the downtown. The participants hail from around the United States, and Canada, Europe, Africa and Australia.

The men and women represent many faiths; some are clergy, lay leaders, church members, businessmen and women and others from diverse careers. The common denominator is an interest in self-improvement.

The event, which began Wednesday and concludes tonight, is at the DeYor Performing Arts Center, 260 W. Federal St.

The 22nd conference is a project sponsored by Calvary Ministries International, 1812 Oak Hill Ave., and directed by Bishop and Mrs. Norman L. Wagner. He is pastor of Calvary Ministries.

“The importance of the conference is helping to develop Christian leaders for all avenues,” Bishop Wagner said. He noted that the world is lacking in charismatic and responsible leaders who can effect positive and beneficial changes. He said that leadership has been the theme of all the conferences, but with a fresh approach each time.

“The principles help participants foster great ideas for their communities,” he said. He noted a mayor of a Michigan city repeatedly has sent a representative because of the valuable leadership techniques he learned that apply to government.

Carefully chosen speakers

Bishop Wagner said participants glean elements of leadership skills from the various speakers and programs, who are specifically chosen to offer insights in this area. “We want to develop and strengthen leaders who understand the privilege and responsibilities of leadership,” he said.

“They have the power to influence people,” he said, noting leaders can’t take their calling lightly. “Because leaders are influential, they have to know how to bring out the best in the people they influence.”

Bishop Wagner said the conference theme, “A Midnight Shift,” was chosen because it reflects what can happen overnight. “You hear the comment ... ‘if they make it through the night’ ... and it makes you consider the power of life.”

“What participants will learn will enhance the quality of their lives and enhance their ministries and their jobs. It’s also about witnessing Christ 24/7,” said Constance J. Longmire, a volunteer at Calvary Ministries and an operations manager at the conference. “The purpose of the conference is to empower leaders.”

Dealing with change

“The theme ‘A Midnight Shift’ was chosen to reflect how we all deal with change. It refers to how much may change overnight. It’s about understanding your purpose and destiny in life and realizing your potential,” Longmire said. “It’s not being afraid of midnight and what God has in store for you.”

Because everyone has to cope with change, the topic was appropriate as a theme. A description of the program noted that “there is a challenge that leaders all around the world face whether their assignment is to the corporate arena or in the Christian arena and that is how to adjust, embrace and react to a shift [change].” The conference speakers have explored the idea how people can successfully meet the challenge of a shift in management, policies, assignments and workers.

Among speakers were Tommy Tenney, author of “The God Chasers”; Bishop Charles Blake, presiding bishop of Churches of God in Christ; Dr. Carolyn Showell and Bishop Tudor Bismark, evangelists; Bishop Iona Locke; and Dr. Elaine Shouse-Waller, author. Musical guests were Vicki Yohe and The Nevels Sisters.

The conference featured 30 seminars for pastors, on worship, leadership, marketplace and those who offer support services. “The day after it ends, we start planning for next year,” Bishop Wagner said, and recognized the paid staff and volunteers who make it happen.

An evening service is planned at 7 tonight, and is free and open to the public.