January 16, 2006 - THRIVE 2005 - Interpreting Feelings in the Context of Your Relationship

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THRIVE 2005
Interpreting Feelings in the Context of Your Relationship
Reviewed by Jason Ouellette
January 16, 2006

As I pulled into the Gaylord Texan for this year’s THRIVE conference (December 27-29, 2005). I couldn’t help but remember how much I loved this hotel. From the cowboy boots on the carpet to the star on the atrium’s dome, the hotel complex is everything it should be. I haven’t been to many conferences designed by and for twentysomethings (I actually didn’t know they existed without the word singles attached), and while I now know that THRIVE isn’t the only conference of its kind, I do know that—like the hotel it was held in—it is everything it should be.

Thanks to Dallas’ Love Field I was a little late for the first night’s service, but I still got to experience the praise and worship led by Dwight Chandler and a praise team combined from a number of local congregations. Both services were filled with anointed praise and worship led by the ensemble from Gateway College of Evangelism and the College and Career Ensemble from Euless, TX. I personally would have liked to hear a couple more songs that I already knew, but overall the music was fresh and anointed.

Tim Grayson spoke both nights, and did a wonderful job. On Tuesday Grayson pointed to Job and how throughout his trials his focus was solely on the Lord. It was this focus that not only gave him the strength to endure, but revealed to him the power in the name of the Lord. The sermon Wednesday seemed all but a continuation of Tuesday night. Grayson spoke on being in a story. He so aptly pointed out that Judas had only been mentioned in two of the Gospels’ many stories. It was when he criticized the use of the expensive oil Mary used on Jesus’ feet, and when Jesus revealed his betrayal. When the altar call was given I found myself praying earnestly that my story would be one of life in love with Jesus and continually used by Him.

The Main Event
Still, the main focus in this conference is not the amazing services, but rather its insightful classes in the day sessions. This year the committee added a day of classes. One aspect of THRIVE that stands out is that it truly is a conference for the college and career age. Not just the college or just the career, but for young ministers, single parents, young marrieds, and even those preparing for marriage. We were able to attend as many as six sessions directly focused on our needs and experiences.

Classes were taught on finding success, financial management, ministering to college students, and living in grace. Speakers were Charles Johnson, Hiro Nishi, Gene Holley, Carl McLaughlin, Keith Duval and Steve Pixler. The committee of THRIVE did an excellent job of providing a wide variety of classes taught by an incredible pool of talent.

I had the opportunity to moderate one of the focused discussion panels. I couldn’t have enjoyed more being a member in a panel that shared the many lessons learned in our college life with current students.

My favorite class was taught by Gene Holley. His topic was the illusion of loneliness. Never in this single life is it not a necessity to be reminded that in walking with Christ and being a part of His church, I am not alone.

THRIVE 2006?
I do have a couple hopes for next year’s conference. While we know that college and career is not just single college students and young professionals, we must acknowledge that the majority of those attending THRIVE (or any other C&C conference) will be. There is a fine line between avoiding the limitations many place on college and career ministry and limiting the options for the majority of the college and career age. By singling out a specific breakout session for classes catering to a small demographic (i.e. single parents, newlyweds), the schedule could be opened to give more class options for the largest demographic (Late college/early career).

There seemed to be a rumor circling about next year’s conference being moved to a different location. And while I would be willing to travel just about anywhere the committee will have to work hard to find a place as beautiful and comfortable as the Gaylord Texan. And just as important is that the town of Grapevine is a great place to shop and eat, two Apostolic staples. Yet, with the time of year (the week in between Christmas and New Years) I can see how the expense of such a resort might have contributed to a moderate attendance. Wherever THRIVE goes, don’t forget to let me know!

In short THRIVE was a wonderful time. I was blessed not only to grow closer to God, but build and find friendships with some of the greatest people in the world. I found myself wishing that more young adults would have come and experienced the insight and anointing that I met at this year’s THRIVE conference.

ninetyandnine.com

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Jason Ouellette is a twentysomething from Wichita Falls, TX who loves teaching Junior High young people and finding excuses to go hang out in Dallas.