Conference Hosts Lay Leadership Training Gathering

Over 40 Leaders Representing Nearly 50 Congregations Receive Training, Support

CLOVIS, Calif. — The Central California Conference convened its first all-day training session for lay leaders on June 29, 2025, at the conference headquarters, bringing together more than 40 volunteers who shepherd congregations without pastoral supervision.

The training, spearheaded by conference evangelist Eddie Pérez and coordinated through Vice President for Ministries Anil Kanda, gathered representatives from nearly 50 mission groups, companies and churches—about one-third of the conference’s congregations.

“We need to pray for them daily,” said Pastor Antonio Huerta, who mentors lay leaders and develops growth strategies. “They work hard every week to support their families, and on top of that they minister to church members in their communities.”

Meeting Critical Needs

The training emerged from practical necessity. Conference leadership recognized that about 25-30 congregations lacked pastoral supervision, prompting efforts to connect and support these volunteer leaders.

"I reached out to make connections with those lay leaders," Huerta explained. "They reach out to me when they have pastoral issues to deal with, and I provide mentoring support."

Conference Evangelist Eddie Perez proposed the in-person gathering to provide hands-on training and affirmation for these dedicated volunteers.

Practical Resources and Support

The conference provides various resources to assist lay leaders, including Total Member Involvement booklets from the North American Division and the General Conference that focus on evangelism cycles. Training addresses specific needs as they arise, for example, instruction on conducting communion services.

Learning From the Field

A panel discussion during the training revealed challenges that conference administration had not fully recognized. The open dialogue allowed lay leaders to share obstacles they face and experiences from their ministries.

Joseph Castillo, a lay leader who leads the Ark Visalia congregation, provided particularly valuable insights. His experience guiding a group from church plant to company status and ultimately to full church recognition inspired other lay leaders.

"His contribution was really encouraging because he's walked that road before," said Anil. "We realize the importance of bringing together both administration and lay people in the field."

The discussion helped conference leadership understand previously overlooked areas and adjust training plans to address immediate challenges.

Healthy Growth First

Rather than emphasizing numerical targets, the conference prioritizes developing healthy, stable congregations. Many lay leaders are new to their roles and need support with internal church dynamics before launching external evangelistic efforts.

"Most of these church leaders are brand new," Huerta observed. "Once they gain experience and feel comfortable leading with confidence, they'll be ready to reach out to communities and win souls for God's kingdom."

The approach recognizes that sustainable growth emerges from healthy congregational foundations rather than forced expansion.

Building Unity and Collaboration

The training strengthened connections between conference administration and field lay leadership. Lay leaders often operated in isolation, managing challenges without adequate support or resources.

"The union between the conference and field is becoming much more solid," Eddy said. "This connection makes it possible for us to address challenges they're facing directly rather than trying to figure it out ourselves."

Conference leadership acknowledges these volunteers represent nearly one-third of all congregations in their territory. The significant membership and financial contributions these groups represent underscore their importance to the conference's overall mission.

Next Steps

Additional Zoom training sessions are planned for coming months, along with continued on-site visits from conference evangelists and coordinators. The conference aims to help mission groups progress to company status and eventually achieve full church recognition.

"We're trying to stabilize them, solidify them, consolidate them as groups and move them to the next step," Eddy said.

The inaugural training represents a new commitment to supporting volunteer leaders who carry significant responsibility for shepherding congregations across the Central California Conference.

Written by Justin Kim