On 1 June 2024, the Living the Great Commission (VGC) training was successfully held for the Ecuador Sierra Norte District. The event was held at Quito's South American Nazarene Theological Seminary (SNTS) facilities.

This training brought together more than 100 people from various congregations, who had the opportunity to learn valuable tools to implement in their ministries and reflect on statistics and improving teamwork.

The attendees were joined by speakers Jimmy De Gouveia, regional coordinator for Church Development, and Milton Mateus, regional coordinator for VGC, who shared their experience and knowledge on the subject. Also present were Freddy Benavidez, superintendent of the Sierra Norte District; Rodrigo Olmedo, national coordinator for Church Development; and Esteban Albornoz, holistic ministries coordinator for Ecuador.

One of the highlights of the conference was the presentation of the VGC wheel, a visual tool that provides a clear view of the functioning and development of churches. Through this self-analysis technique, participants could evaluate different areas of their congregations, making them aware of the moment they find themselves in and the aspects that need improvement.

Pastor Alexander Vargas Robalino expressed his satisfaction with the experience.

"The Living the Great Commission conference was truly enriching,” he said. “With the VGC wheel, we obtained a graphic vision of the functioning of our church, evaluated various areas, and became aware of the aspects to be improved."

The day concluded with thanksgiving to God for the quality time and shared learning. The participants committed to continue advancing in extending the kingdom of God in Ecuador, reaffirming their identity as the church of the Lord, the Church of the Nazarene.

With this training, the church continues to strengthen its leaders and pastors, promoting the implementation of the Great Commission and spiritual and ministerial growth throughout the country.

--Church of the Nazarene South America