The 111th Session of the Laurinburg District Conference, held in conjunction with the Laurinburg District Church School Convention, convened on Saturday, June 28th at Little Marsh A.M.E. Zion Church in Saint Pauls, North Carolina. The host pastor, Dr. Earlene Baggett, and her dedicated team extended exceptional hospitality, truly embodying the spirit of radical welcome.
District officers, pastors, and members from across the district gathered promptly at 7:30 AM for a leadership meeting with our esteemed Presiding Elder, Dr. Chalmers McDougald. The day began on a high note with a delicious breakfast prepared by the church’s outstanding culinary team.
The conference opened with a spirited praise and worship service led by our conference evangelist, followed by a productive business session presided over by Elder McDougald. This session included the examination of local preachers and exhorters, affirming our district’s commitment to developing strong spiritual leadership.
Meanwhile, children and youth participated in age-specific breakout sessions as part of the Church School Convention’s Elevate Academy. We were especially honored to welcome Mrs. Tyesha Harden, our newly appointed Christian Education Conference Director, as our special guest.
The conference featured two impactful plenary sessions. The first, titled “Securing Our Future,” was delivered by the incomparable Rt. Reverend Kenneth Monroe (Retired), whose insights were both powerful and deeply inspiring. His message was enthusiastically received by pastors and lay members alike.
Following a hearty Southern-style lunch, once again beautifully prepared by Dr. Baggett and her culinary team, attendees gathered for our second plenary session: “Church Communications,” presented by the charismatic Mr. Darin Kent, Chief Communications Officer and Editor-in-Chief of The Star of Zion. His presentation was both informative and engaging, equipping attendees with practical tools for enhancing communication within their ministries.
Special thanks and congratulations to Presiding Elder Dr. Chalmers McDougald for leading another outstanding District Conference. We also extend heartfelt appreciation to Ms. Kara McGougan, District Director of Christian Education, and her team for their excellent work in coordinating the Church School Convention and Elevate Academy.
