Central European Leadership Gathering “The Keys”

The 2018 Central European Leadership gathering was held near Cluj, Romania in May. The core circle of Florin, Arlen, Alket and I had the privilege of leading this wonderful gathering of 80 people who came together to learn about “The Keys”.

When we were praying through who to invite to speak, we all felt that it was right to have Stephe and Rite Mayers come and share their wisdom with us. And we can see that it really was God’s idea. It was so great not just to have them share from the front, but also in between as well. During the sessions, we learnt about transitions, and team leadership, and so many more “Keys”.

We also had the honour of opening on our first evening with Al Akimoff who shared stories with the common theme of the importance of simple obedience. It was lovely to have him and Carolyn and many of our other elders with us as well.

We also prayed in the new Area Circle Team (pictured below). These people will come alongside the core circle to provide leadership to the Area of Central Europe. Currently there are 17 people on this new “ACT”, representing countries and various regional ministries.

I was looking through the feedback forms from everyone and so many put as their highlight “the community” or “building relationships” or “spending time with others”. In our region of mainly smaller teams and bases, it is so important to be reminded of how we are connected to the bigger picture of YWAM.

We also had two afternoons of amazing workshops, and on one afternoon a lovely walk to a nearby waterfall. But we also had enough free time to build relationships and  network together in the beautiful surroundings.

All in all, it was definitely one of my most favourite gatherings to date!
Belinda Chaplin (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
Convener for Central Europe