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March 16, 2008

Savoring Synergy

by Carolyn Custis James

If you want to go fast, go alone.
If you want to go far, go together.
- African Proverb

Several years ago, when I was facing major surgery, I learned just how alone a person can feel and also what it means to have someone come alongside you.

At the time, I was an employee of the hospital where I was now an anxious patient. When I awoke the morning of my surgery, both my husband and my boss (an amazing woman who was also to me both a mentor and a friend) were there for me. As I was wheeled up to the surgical suite, I had an IV on one side and my friend on the other. Her hand was gently resting on my shoulder pumping courage into me.

There's more than a little truth in the African proverb that we need one another to go the distance in the battles God puts in our path.

In 2004, after dozens of conversations with women in vocational ministry and a sizable dose of personal experience, a group of us in Orlando agreed that the ministry can be a lonely place and we wanted to do something about it.

Today, many women in vocational ministry are still in the pioneering phase. Often we're the only or the first woman on a ministry team. (Now there's a recipe for aloneness!) We met women - like a seminary dean of women - who don't know any other women in their field and are winging it, instead of benefiting from the experience (and avoiding the mistakes) of someone further down the road. Then, of course, there is the next generation of women, preparing to launch into ministry, who wonder what doors will open to them and how to connect with seasoned women who have blazed the trail for them.

In 2005, we launched Synergy to bring these women together. Synergy Conferences provide a stimulating forum where we can network, refuel and go deeper spiritually, and equip and inform one another for greater ministry effectiveness. Believe me, this is not your typical women's conference!

In 2006, we embraced our identity as God's image bearers, ezer-warriors for his purposes, and partners in a Blessed Alliance with our Christian brothers to advance the Kingdom of Jesus Christ throughout the earth. These callings (all drawn from God's glorious vision for humanity - read more here) underscore the Bible's strong, affirming message for women. It also reaffirms our belief that our brothers need us to join them in fulfilling God's calling on His church, and we are deeply committed to building strong relationships with them.

In 2007, we were thrilled when Gifted for Leadership approached us with their desire to come on board and co-sponsor Synergy Conferences with us. We couldn't agree more with what Amy Simpson said, "God has brought us together."

When I woke up this morning, I wasn't facing surgery. But I admit I still felt anxious. Ahead are ministry challenges that I will face alone. My to-do list only seems to grow longer, no matter how many items I check off. There are difficulties, stresses, and unwelcome battles that are in my path - battles I know I must fight for loved ones, for my ministry, and in my personal struggles with God.

This morning before my feet touched the floor, I was heartened by reminding myself, "I'm an ezer-warrior. God has called me to be strong and face these battles for him." I felt a sudden surge of encouragement just remembering the friends I've made through Synergy - other women who are facing battles too and who are only a quick phone call or email away.

In less than a month, I'll be seeing them face-to-face at Synergy2008, and I can hardly wait! We hope you'll join us and savor the synergy!

Posted by Caryn Rivadeneira on March 16, 2008 8:22 AM

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