The Skyliner

Over 200 people attended the Kaleo Conference, on campus this weekend. The seminar was geared toward junior and senior high school students as well as college students who are exploring the call into the ministry.

"I was a student here," said Donald King, Missions Prep Network Director. "North Greenville University is the top missionary sending school. I know the heart and leadership of the university. It just seemed like a natural place for this event. This institution is sending people out."
The conference began Friday, March 23 with worship led by Singer/Songwriter Russ Lee and Joyful Sound.

Clayton King, Founder and Director of Crossroads Worldwide, then led a session concentrating on "Knowing God and His Will."

"We have to know God before we know His will," said King. He touched on the fact that it's okay to not know exactly where you are in life but he firmly stated, "bloom where you are planted".

"As one being called into the ministry, I tend to overcomplicate God's will," said Nikki Clifton, junior Christian studies. "Clayton's message was very encouraging. It was comforting to realize that the things I am currently doing, which are mentioned in God's word are, step by step, preparing me for His will."

Matthew Harding, College Pastor of Morrison Heights Baptist Church, touched on "Confirming God's Call." "His call is never wasted," he said. He wants us to be totally dependent on Him."

The first night ended with the talent of Kerry Jackson, President of Drawing to the Rock Ministries, Inc. He radically gripped the hearts of those in the audience by drawing a phenomenal picture of Christ on the cross.

"You do not always associate art with evangelism but he effectively uses his gift to reach people," said Zach Mullins, freshman business administration.

The conference began early Saturday, March 24 with Jay McSwain, President and Founder of PLACE Ministries. He addressed being "Gifted for Ministry." "Give the gift on behalf of the Giver who gives all," he said.

After this encouraging message, students went their own ways and selected four different breakout sessions that most fit their desires, including "The Culture War," "On Mission Around the World," "A Man After God's Own Heart" and "Spiritual Warfare, Prepare for Victory."

"We had a good group and a good discussion with guys who shared good insight from their own experiences," said Dr. Allen McWhite, Global Missions Director.

The conference came to a close late Saturday afternoon with an inspiring message from Dr. Frank Page, President of the Southern Baptist Convention.

He pierced hearts with the message of "Mission Possible." He referenced scripture from Luke 13:1-9, the parable of the fig tree. Dr. Page reminded the students that they have all been planted in a certain place and it is not by accident. He relentlessly encouraged everyone to not live saying some day God, some day. "Do not just live in the future tense," said Page. "Live in the here and now."

"We aren't in the business of developing cookie-cutter missionaries or ministers," said Donald King. "Every person called is unique and has a unique place in His call."

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