More than twenty years ago, a vision emerged among Lutheran church leaders in the Washington DC region for a process, and someday a place, called Wellspring, where professional and lay workers could learn, grow, and excel in their ministries for Christ.
In the past few years, convergence of several efforts - a Southeastern District initiative to establish a regional learning center for church leaders; the construction of available space in well located new facilities by The Lutheran Church of St. Andrew; the relocation of the Center for Asian Missions and Evangelism into those facilities; and the clear need for servants of the church to experience spiritual renewal and personal wellness - has led to a dynamic partnership through which the Spirit has expanded the vision of Wellspring and finally found it a home!
Wellspring Re-Launch
On October 7, 2009 Wellspring took an important step toward reality when a select group of Christian leaders and innovators gathered at The Wellspring Summit to learn about plans, offer input and wisdom, and experience a bit of what Wellspring will ultimately become: a unique tool for education, conference and spiritual growth with a special focus on the refreshment, healing and strength-building of Christ followers in professional and lay ministry and beyond. Following this inaugural event, a Wellspring Leadership Team was formed and work is actively underway to move the effort forward.
Wellspring Offerings
From 2010-2012, several hundred people participated in Wellspring seminars held at The Lutheran Church of St. Andrew. Offerings have included Dr. Bruce Hartung's exploration of "Grace in the Pastor Parish Dance," "Personality and Spirituality: How Do They Connect?" and "Holding Up the Prophet's Hands." Pastor Mark Hricko's "Spiritual Leadership in the 21st Century" and Rev. Dr. Pete Steinke's "New Vision Workshop" were offered as well. Off-site Wellspring seminars have been held in New York and Virginia, and additional curricula is under development.
New Facility!
In the spring of 2013, the Wellspring Center, a state of the art meeting and conference facility, was opened on the campus of The Lutheran Church of St Andrew. That facility, combined with worship space, fitness center, labyrinth, and a variety of meeting and refreshment serving areas, expands options for Wellspring's future. The mission and development of Wellspring programs, offerings and services continues!