Headquartered in Minneapolis, IMF is an association of laymen, clergypersons and churches who work across denominational lines to “love, serve, encourage and help enable those who are called to serve in front-line Christian ministry,” according to the group’s Web site. The organization provides credentialing, networking and access to ministry-related resources as well as serves as a mission-sending agency and an ecclesiastical endorsing agency.

Dr. Mark Rutland, president of Southeastern University in Lakeland, Fla., and Global Servants, will be the keynote speaker for the 2007 conference. Rutland also hosts a 30-minute daily radio program and is the author of 12 books including “Launch Out into the Deep” and his latest book “Resurrection.”

“As a missionary, a pastor, a marriage counselor, a teacher, a radio and television personality and a university president, Mark Rutland has proven the power of Christ in the most difficult arenas of Christian ministry,” said Pastor Fred Kelly, IMF president. “He is a hero to many, and his choice for our conference is the best that could have been made.”

Dr. Anis Shorrosh, an expert on the Middle East and native of Nazareth, will speak about “Reaching Muslims” during the lunch meeting on Thursday of the conference. Shorrosh is the author of nine books and a frequent guest on cable news and talk radio programs.

Friday’s lunch speaker will be the Rev. Leland Paris, director of Youth With a Mission in Tyler, Texas. Leland holds seats on the boards of Mercy Ships International, Ecclesia College and YWAM. Since 1970, he has traveled to over 138 countries promoting trade, relief and training.

The IMF conference also features workshops lead by Joel Warne, the Rev. Bob Cottingham, the Rev. Jim Solberg and others.

Wednesday and Thursday evening during the conference, IMF will host worship services that are open to the public in the Redeemer Lutheran Church Activity Center. Both services will include special musical guests including the Celebration Choir and the Rev. Ken Carter.

The Friday evening banquet will feature music by Jason Gray and entertainment by the original writers and actors of Triple Espresso.

Additional options at the conference include an IMF Open House, mixer activities, an ordination reception and an array of exhibits.

“We are a church in action, and all of those licensed or ordained by IMF have proven themselves to be capable leaders. Each of us will benefit from hearing those who have walked where we walk and have conquered in Jesus’ name,” Kelly said. “Our leadership in the places God has appointed for us will be enhanced and strengthened. That is the point of the conference and that is the benefit.”


ACTION POINT:
Registration for the 2007 IMF “Come Meet the Family” conference is due by June 29. To view the various pricing options or to learn more about the event, visit www.i-m-f.org. To speak to someone about the event, call (763) 571-5967.