The first day of the Nazarene Discipleship International General Convention was filled with the presence of Jesus. The day consisted of the opening of the local church ministries booth (NDI, Nazarene Missions International, and Nazarene Youth International) in the exhibit hall, NDI workshops, a gathering for Women’s Discipleship Ministries, a plenary session, and GA Kids. 

The theme of the plenary session was “Walking in Grace.” Christian Sarmiento and Carlos Saenz, regional directors of South America and Mesoamerica, respectively, brought greetings to the NDI delegates. 

Early in the session, General Superintendent David Graves and his wife, Sharon, were brought to the platform as David received NDI’s top award, the Second Mile Award, for his influence on the church in discipleship and leadership. His words of encouragement and challenge to make Christlike disciples were followed by a standing ovation. 

The NDI Global Council met to vote on one global nominee to represent NDI on the General Board. This person will be named on Monday morning in the plenary service and confirmed by vote of the General Assembly next week.

Worship leader Carlos “Zeke” de la Cruz (Mesoamerica) and his team led the delegation to the throne of grace through music. Marta Gonzalez, superintendent of the Puerto Rico West District,  preached an anointed message from John 15. 

Delegates learned that “walking in grace” is about hospitality, mutual indwelling, and missional discipleship. At the end of the plenary service, the front of the stage was full of people on their knees seeking a deeper relationship with Jesus. 

NDI’s first day was capped off by GA Kids, an intentional worship service for both early childhood and elementary-aged children. Hundreds of children learned that because Jesus is Lord, we go into all the world with His good news. 

--Nazarene Discipleship International