Events
We hold a number of important events throughout the year. Most of these events are required for our credentialed pastors.
LEAD
Required: All credentialed persons serving in BIC churches.
Welcome: Ministry staff serving in BIC churches, Special Assigned credentialed persons *, Retired pastors with Emeritus status
LEAD Events are held once or twice a year (Spring and Fall). At these training events we learn from gifted communicators who can speak to issues we are facing in this cultural moment.
AGM
Required: All credentialed persons.
Welcome: Anyone is welcome to attend.
Our Annual General Meeting occurs in April each year. We value this time of celebrating what God has been doing across our church family, sharing new initiatives, and fulfilling the business requirements of our denomination.
Pastors Staff Meeting
Required: All credentialed pastors serving in BIC churches in Ontario.
Welcome: Pastors and ministry staff serving in any BIC church.
The Pastors Staff Meeting is held annually in September. At this event we provide important updates and information on denominational programs and activities.
Pastors and Ministry Staff Retreat
Required: All credentialed persons serving in BIC churches.
Welcome: Ministry staff serving in BIC churches, Special Assigned credentialed persons *, Retired pastors with Emeritus status
Our Ministry Leaders Retreat occurs every two years following AGM. On these years the retreat replaces the Spring LEAD event.
New Pastors Orientation
Required: Newly credentialed pastors
Within the first year of receiving credentials, we require all new pastors to attend two orientation retreats. The orientation events acclimatize new pastors to the BIC pastoral community by focusing on our history, theological streams, culture, core values, and pastoral expectations. The events happen in the fall and winter seasons and each retreat is one-and-a-half days long and held at a hotel in St. Jacobs, Ontario.
Attendance is by invitation only.
* Special Assigned indicates credentialed persons serving in a pastoral role but not within a local congregation (e.g., hospital care, elder care, chaplaincy). These credentialed persons are required to attend AGM each year, and are encouraged to attend LEAD Days. Persons in this role are also welcome to join Ministry Leaders Retreats.