Because of this calling, the Church has been ministering to people and communities for as long as those faithful to God's Word have been gathering together. Ministry isn't pretty--it is often difficult and uncomfortable. And it is certainly not glamorous. But it can be beautiful seeing lives changed, hearts touched, and God's love felt by those who do not know Him.

The Falls Church Anglican has lived through such a story. In 2012, this historic church in Northern Virginia took a stand for their faith and lost everything to the Episcopal Church. After crushing defeats in the courts, the church moved out of the property George Washington had graced centuries before. They walked away from their colonial building and history. They left the soaring sanctuary they built, one that had hosted hundreds (if not thousands) of weddings and baptisms.

The conference got off to a great start with a party on the lawn, complete with games, burgers, and beer, and just kept getting better with every session. From its inception, the team organizing this conference intended to create an environment where planters could build relationships, participate in practical, interactive sessions to learn more about their craft, and walk away with real life solutions to obstacles they are facing in the field.

The conference was held amid growing concerns about economic instability and more terrorist attacks in Europe this year, with the Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist organisation exerting more efforts to widen its campaign of terror.

Amid the uncertainties in the continent, the conference was called to urge European Christians to develop a stronger relationship with God. Held under the theme "Mercy triumphs over judgment," the gathering declared God's ability to heal and restore Europe.