In March, pastors and church planters from across Nepal embarked on journeys, leaving behind the familiar routines of ministry in their villages and cities. They traveled, some for days, converging for a cherished annual conference – a time set apart for renewal, connection, and refocusing on the source of their strength. In a nation where the church is growing, equipping and supporting these dedicated leaders is essential, not just with initial training, but with ongoing encouragement and fellowship.
This yearly gathering serves as a vital reminder to these leaders that they are not alone. As Nepal Director Bekharaj shared, the commitment extends far beyond foundational training. It’s about walking alongside them, assuring them, “we are with you, and we are praying for you. And you are so special.” This deep sense of partnership underscores the spirit of the conference.
This year’s gathering centered on the powerful theme, “Trust in the Lord,” anchored in Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” In a world filled with situations that can easily lead to discouragement, the conference called leaders to shift their gaze. As Bekharaj noted, looking only at circumstances can be disheartening, but “If we trust in the Lord, God can help us. God can work in our life. God can bless our ministry.”
The atmosphere buzzed with shared faith and purpose. Sessions explored the practical meaning of trusting God with family, finances, and the unique challenges of ministry in Nepal. But beyond the teaching, the heart of the conference beat in the shared experience. Bekharaj described it beautifully: “That’s why we invite them every year, we come together as ServLife family, and we praise together our Almighty God. We worship together and we hear from each other. We learn from each other.”
Through heartfelt worship, earnest prayer, and time spent sharing burdens and victories, bonds were strengthened. Leaders found solace and strength not just in the messages, but in the faces of their colleagues, realizing the joys and struggles they experience are shared. The impact was clear. According to Bekharaj, “[The] pastors are really blessed and they’re very encouraged by the conference.”
As the conference concluded and pastors prepared to return to their communities, the hope was tangible. The desire, as expressed by Bekharaj, is that they leave not with fear, but with renewed boldness. “I want that they will be more courageous in their ministry, they will be more excited in ministry, not thinking that they are alone…” These leaders, equipped and refreshed, carry back the message of trust in God and his love for them. They step back into their calling, reminded that they serve the God who created everything.
“They are just ordinary people, but they are doing extraordinary work.”