The Experience of AIM
2009 AIM Convention – Tampa, Florida
By S. Danielle Benjamin
In my early childhood days, I’m told my parents loaded me with them in church vans headed to cities near and far to experience AIM. While my memory holds secrets of those initial encounters, I do know the truth of the matter. AIM is an experience for all people – leaders and lay members, church folk and the un-churched, young and old, musicians, youth, missionaries, evangelists and Sunday school participants alike.
The Church of God in Christ Auxiliaries in Ministry Convention provides an opportunity for people to come together to fellowship, learn from one another, spiritually mature and have a high time in the Lord. For the past three summers I’ve spent at least a portion of my Fourth of July festivities in Houston, Louisville and Detroit. But my visit to Tampa was different. It was my first time truly experiencing AIM. It was the first year I left the city feeling more like a participant of AIM and less like a worker at AIM.
Not that I have a problem with putting my heels to the side, bundling up my long skirt between my knees and getting my finger nails a little dirty. It’s just that I’ve always felt I was missing out on the enchanted part. The icing on the cake, if you will. The part of AIM that left you rejuvenated and eager to go back to your local church with a renewed sense of purpose and direction. The experience of AIM.
But this year was different. This year I walked the streets of Tampa in the rain. I sat in on my Youth on a Mission training, listening in awe to Bishop Charles Cole testify of his angelic visitation and his escape from the Philippines.
I prayed.
I shared information about the International Youth Advisory Council to passersby. I learned new praise and worship songs.
I laughed.
I was reminded to celebrate my leaders. I saw family members and hung out with old friends.
I grew.
I experienced newness, conquered fears and took on challenges. I was engaged by the Can You Hear Me Now panel discussion with Mother Rivers and Karen Clark-Sheard and Evangelist Joyce Rodgers.
I wept.
I enjoyed the fellowship of like-minded souls at the Young Adults Ministry event and the Gathering Place. I witnessed the passing of the torch as a newly appointed IYAC was formed.
I became bold.
I rubbed elbows at banquets with leaders of AIM. I got a Word delivered through my presiding bishop, cautioning me to not let me soul grow lean.
I was blessed.
I went to Tampa.
I experienced AIM.