ACOP as a Fellowship

[Melanie]

The value of conference to an organization such as ACOP is immeasurable. It presents many opportunities for its members including a chance to share experiences, grow in understanding of how our organization’s belief actually play out in the “real world” and it’s a chance to plan and dream of where we are going as an organization.

I have not been part of another denomination.

[Deleted User]

Conferences play an important role in Fellowships because authority is based on relationship not position or title. Conferences provide the opportunity to build relationship with leadership and lay people alike, providing us with unique opportunities to connect and learn all ACOP is doing around the world as well as in Canada. It helps to maintain unity and keep us all on the same page.

I was part of PAOC for a time and the biggest difference I noticed was the level of relationship. Every time I walk into an ACOP church I feel like I'm not just another person, I'm family.

[Chris]

I think conferences play an important role for relationship building and for the direction of the fellowship as a whole. People have the opportunity to get to know each other better and to learn about resources that can be shared throughout the fellowship. It's also a time to come together and vote on important issues.

I have been a part of a network church as well as a somewhat centrally controlled church. I noticed the biggest difference in the network church, as when we ran into leadership issues, we didn't really have apostolic leadership who could come in and assist. I would say that the ACOP, while still a fellowship, has a more defined and known apostolic team, ready to encourage, offer direction & support and step in, without overstepping, when needed.

[Taliya]

Conferences allow a time of connection for members of a fellowship like ACOP. It is a great way to build relationships, encourage one another and be updated about ministry ventures. A fellowship like ACOP feels so much more like a family or a community than more structured denominations. I grew up in a PAOC church and while I was too young to understand the hierarchy, I definitely felt a difference in my sense of belonging.