Inter-America: Church leadership takes time for spiritual emphasis

June 10, 2013 – Miami, Florida, United States…Libna Stevens/IAD

IAD church leaders sing special music during the beginning of the church’s headquarters annual week of spiritual emphasis held in Miami, Florida, June 8, 2013. Images by Libna Stevens/IAD]

Seventh-day Adventist leaders, staff members and their families at the Inter-American Division (IAD) headquarter office began the week reflecting on the book of Haggai and focusing on giving priority to God’s work. The special week brought more than 80 church employees and their families to praise and worship together during the annual event held in Miami, Florida, from June 7-15, 2013.

“It’s important to put all issues aside and concentrate on our spiritual life as a team,” said Pastor Israel Leito, president of the church in Inter-America.

Dr. Lex Van Dijk, a pastor in Holland with more than 20 years experience as a psychologist, was the keynote speaker. Dr. Van Kijk challenged church leaders to reflect on dependence and obedience to God as they serve the church.

“Whatever happens in our lives, we have the assurance that God is helping us out,” said Dr. Van Dijk.

Dr. Lex Van Dijk, a pastor in Holland with more than 20 years experience as a psychologist, speaks as the keynote speaker in this year’s Inter-American Division week of spiritual emphasis.

“God comes to look for us, He takes our hand, he helps us up and whatever is hindering us will cease,” said Dr. Van Dijk as he reflected on Jesus healing Peter’s mother-in-law found in Matthew 8.

“The Lord has power over everything that hinders us,” Dr. Van Dijk reassured top leaders who oversee a 3.7 million membership in Inter-America.

The week of spiritual emphasis began with a communion held June 7, and will continue throughout the weekend.