Deena Kuhl
Donor
Director of Resident Care, Renaissance Senior Communities
Event Planner, 2010 National Festival of Young Preachers, Assisted 2011 and 2012
Baptist/Christian
Southeast Christian Church
The First Festival of Preachers began on a dreary and dismal day. Through months of preparation, we tried to anticipate all the needs of those attending. We focused on schedules, accommodations, printing programs, speakers and worked to obtain a group of first-time attendees. Details and more details. However, what we had not anticipated was that Louisville would be paralyzed in a history-making snowstorm that crippled the city.
The community was told to stay inside; businesses closed, malls were empty, schools shut down, buses quit running and streets were deserted. Piles of snow lined the street and parking lots covered with icy residue. As the Festival began, we were frantically helping attendees make it to the Festival amidst cancelled flights and highway mayhem. Many were stuck in traffic, snow, and blizzard conditions, unsure if they could even make it to the event.
Many arriving late, they survived heroic efforts to attend our first attempt to motivate and encourage young people called to the art of preaching. In the midst of this grueling and freezing snowstorm, young men and women rose to a podium and poured out their hearts in words that transformed the gospel for us. And those who made it were glad they did.
What surprised me the most was the lack of support from families, churches, and friends of some participants. While some enjoyed enormous support, many felt alone in their call and confused about how to pursue their commitment. A young woman we were privileged to host received nothing but discouragement from her pastor and home church.
Yet, she flew across the country to find out about this preaching festival. Was there a place for her? I watched her change from trepidation about her calling to confidence that she could fulfill the passion of her heart. There was a place for her among a group that confirmed her desire to make a difference in the preaching of the gospel.
Through the days, we watched nervous and unsure participants rise to the challenge of preaching a sermon to a group they did not know, in a place they had not been, and an event they knew nothing about. Some had never preached. Groups gathered in rooms with excitement and anticipation.
And oh, what they heard. Stories of pain, forgiveness, restoration and an exposition on scripture that surprised and excited those who heard. These young preachers found encouragement, motivation, and confirmation that strengthened their desire to preach with resources that would aid them on their way. Most of all, they found fellow travelers on this journey to preach the gospel in a broken world. Addresses were exchanged, stories shared and friendships formed.
They learned the importance of mentors in their life. Those who traveled with them, directing and providing advice and counsel. Whether a pastor or friend, these individuals would contribute, much needed information and guidance in the course of their ministry. They met speakers and pastors that gave them the benefit of years of training and wisdom.
Many things went wrong that first year. Schedule changes, shortages of food, and transportation mix-ups. However, what went right was the enthusiasm and discovery of these young preachers. It was a building and contagious feeling that the world needs intelligent and committed young men and women to fill the pulpits across the nation. They learned to be passionate about preparation, excellence, and study. They brought a respect for the privilege to stand in the pulpit. They discovered the honor in proclaiming the love and grace of a God who pursued those in the pew with relentless intervention.
As Event Planner, I had spent months with details, to-do lists, and agendas. The unexpected weather threatened our carefully planned event and brought panic while trying to find solutions. What I walked away with was an overflowing heart of new thoughts, inspiration, and confidence that the next generation of preaching was in excellent hands. From then until now I continue to support this powerful and unique effort with my time, talent and treasure. I can think of no better cause.