The Iowa Association of Regular Baptist Churches met for their 78th annual conference at Faith Baptist Church in Mason City, Iowa on April 15-17. Using the theme “Making Disciples Jesus’ Way” subtitled Small Groups Then and Now, each segment considered the ramifications of using small groups in the local church. The thrust of the conference was to promote small groups as a viable option to deepen relationships and deepen people’s understanding of the Word of God. It raised the question, Is what we are currently doing effectively making disciples? If not, small groups may be the answer.
Brad Hoff, fields director for Continental Baptist Mission served as the main speaker. The IARBC State Representative, Joe Hayes spoke twice. Pastors Mike Augsburger and Zach Dietrich shared a general session. Pastors Scott Onofrio and Daniel Hartwig led a workshop and several pastors participated in a panel discussion.
Chris and Deb Hindal attended the conference as guests and displayed the GARBC International Ministries. They both had many opportunities to interact with pastors and wives.