Detailed Training Schedule for MCEC Québec Pastors' Retreat

Saturday, June 7, 2025 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Breakfast and lunch included
Location: Église Bethesda Saint-Hyacinthe,  2195 rue St-Pierre Ouest, St-hyacinthe Qc, Canada

9:00 a.m. Welcome, Coffee & Fellowship Breakfast

Purpose:  Create a warm, welcoming space for reconnection, prayer, and informal conversations.

9:30 a.m. Worship and Reflection in the Word

Led by: [Name to be confirmed]
A spiritual time to start the day focused on God’s presence through worship, Scripture and prayer.

Block 1: Church Governance

10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Introduction:

A local church is not only a spiritual body, but also an organization. To reflect God's justice, peace, and integrity, our governance must be clear, healthy, and collaborative. This session aims to equip pastors and leaders to build or strengthen a governance framework that is biblical, structured, and well-suited to the Mennonite context in Québec.

Topics Covered:

• What is church governance?
• Roles and responsibilities of board members
• Accountability and transparency
• Linking structure to spiritual mission

Block 2: Church Budget Management

11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Introduction:

Finances in the church are not taboo — they are tools. When managed wisely, they support mission, ministry, and build trust within the congregation. This session will explore how to create and manage a simple, effective church budget that aligns with both spiritual and organizational goals.

Topics Covered:

• Creating a simple and functional budget
• Forecasting income and expenses
• Tools for financial monitoring
• Involving the congregation in financial decisions
• Financial transparency as a testimony

 Lunch  

Block 3: Child Protection Policies (Safe Church)

1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Presented by: Fanosie Legasse

Introduction:

Protecting children is a sacred responsibility and a reflection of God’s love. Creating safe spaces for the vulnerable is both a spiritual mandate and a legal duty. This session will raise awareness, provide training, and offer tools to help churches implement clear and effective child protection policies grounded in both Scripture and best practices.

Topics Covered:

• Biblical and theological foundations of protection
• Examples of Safe Church policies
• Implementation and follow-up processes
• Legal responsibilities and best practices
• Volunteer/staff training resources

3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Open Discussion & Closing

• Q&A, testimonies, sharing
• Final prayer and blessing
• Logistics: follow-up, next gathering, suggestions

This is a gathering for French-speaking pastors, no English translation will be provided. 

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