 On October 11, 2021, leaving Washington, DC at 5:30 am, Anthony D. Bobo, Jr. boards a plane for Sacramento, CA to attend 2021 Peer Mentoring. “I am excited to meet with African American pastors and leaders from around the country to discuss the challenges of ministry, how we are leading during the pandemic, and how we will aid the universal church in dealing with biblical justice in the times in which we live,” shares Bobo. Little did Bobo know that he would experience that... and so much more... Peer Mentoring as described by the Evangelical Covenant Church (ECC), African American Ministers Association (AAMA), “...has been valued by many because it is a space where African American clergy and leaders can be human without worrying about the dynamics of shepherd and sheep. African American pastors, ministers, and leaders in Covenant congregations and institutions - along with their spouses - are welcome to attend.” This year, it was hosted by Pastor Efrem Smith and Midtown Church in Sacramento, California. Along with encouraging devotionals and connecting social time, topics discussed, and special guests were: "Weight of Racial Tension;" "Acknowledging Bias/Building Bridges"-Sacramento Police Chief Daniel Hahn; “Leading in a Post Pandemic World;" "Self-Care;" "Casting Vision in Digital World/Building a Virtual Community." There were visiting pastors and leaders from the Sacramento area. Truly a time of fellowship, refreshing, and fun. “You have those moments in life that you know you will never forget,” Bobo reflects, “...and this is one of them for me. I did not just meet friends, I met brothers, sisters, mentors, colleagues that will be lifelong relationships.” Bobo was invited by the host, Pastor Efrem Smith and Dr. Robert Owens (retired ECC Superintendent and CEO of Rivers of Life, Atlanta, GA). “It was a blessed time, and I am grateful for Drs. Smith and Owens' invitation,” Bobo proudly exclaims. |
