District CONFERENCE February 2025: rev. dr. marcellus norris

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The Outstanding Orlando District is eternally grateful for a truly dynamic training session on Church Growth.  On February 18, 2025, the Rev. Dr. Marcellus Norris, Executive Director of Church Growth & Development, provided a full day of training and worship to the Outstanding Orlando District, the house was packed at New Bethel A.M.E. Church, in Altamonte Springs, FL, where the host pastor was the Rev. A.J. Davis.  With the day sectioned into three powerful sessions, pastors, clergy, officers, component leaders, and laity received non-stop, in-depth training on how to re-invigorate ministry and worship to capture new believers and serve existing members in this present age.

Session #1:  Workshop title, " Fishing Season:  Bait, Hook, Catch!  The session was designed for church leaders and members seeking to enhance their evangelism and church growth efforts.  Rooted in Matthew 4:19, participants were encouraged to embrace Jesus' promise:  "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men."

• Faith & Action
• Intentional Evangelism
• Strategic Outreach
• Effective Engagement
• Common Mistakes to Avoid

Session #2:  Workshop title, "Evangelism in an Online World."  The session covered tools and resources to equip church leaders, pastors, and congregants with strategies to effectively engage in digital discipleship.  

• Adapting to Cultural and Technological Shifts
• The Biblical Mandate for Digital Evangelism
• The Role of Online Engagement in Church Growth
• The Reality of a Post-Christian Society
• Practical Digital Ministry Strategies

Led by Rev. Dr. Paula Lake, Christian Education Director – 11th Episcopal District
Hosted by the Outstanding Orlando District

The Outstanding Orlando District was honored to welcome Rev. Dr. Paula Lake, Christian Education Director of the 11th Episcopal District, for a transformative Church Etiquette Training Session. With grace, clarity, and deep spiritual insight, Rev. Dr. Lake led participants through the importance of maintaining reverence, respect, and intentionality in all aspects of worship within the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

The session focused on key areas of AME church etiquette—including proper attire, sanctuary conduct, liturgical responses, and the sacred responsibilities of officers, ushers, and congregants. Rev. Dr. Lake highlighted the significance of traditions such as the Decalogue, the Holy Communion service, and the solemnity of processions and recessions. Emphasis was also placed on the importance of arriving on time, participating fully in worship, and modeling behavior that honors both God and the sacred space.

This session served not only as a refresher for seasoned members, but also as a teaching moment for new members and leaders seeking to deepen their understanding of AME worship culture. Rev. Dr. Lake reminded all in attendance that church etiquette is not about appearance, but about reverence, witness, and stewardship—a spiritual discipline that strengthens the body of Christ.

The Outstanding Orlando District extends its sincere thanks to Rev. Dr. Paula Lake for her continued commitment to Christian Education and her powerful impartation to our district.