This year’s Education and Clergy Development’s New Pastor Orientation welcomed 15 new pastors and their spouses to the Wesleyan community, with times of sharing, networking and advice.

On October 11-12, new pastors, their spouses and seasoned Wesleyans met at Wesleyan Headquarters in Fishers, IN.

The annual event reaches out to newly ordained or newly appointed pastors and pastors transferring from other denominations.

The two days of fellowship not only help pastors become better oriented to the mission and ethos of The Wesleyan Church (TWC), but also connect them with ministries and resources, helping establish support systems to ensure a good start in ministry.

“The conference provided a chance for me to build connections with peers,” shared attendee Andrea Abrahamson. “[It] created space for me to hear from the Lord.”

A highlight of this year’s NPO was the participation of representatives from multiple divisions of TWC, who shared insights and information to help new pastors improve their ministries.

General Treasurer and CFO Kevin Batman spoke at the event, providing data on how TWC operates on the financial side. He also offered attendees tips and suggestions on how to run the financial side of their churches.

Dave Higle, director of Clergy Development, encouraged pastors to prioritize self-care by setting aside at least one day each week to “pray and play.”

Attendees also received inspirational books and materials to help them in their ministry journeys.

“I’m grateful to our Department of Education and Clergy Development for hosting. It shows their investment in the health and growth of pastors,” said Abrahamson. “I would highly recommend it to other new pastors in The Wesleyan Church!