Epic GLOW, Lasting Impact: SSLC 2025 Reflections

As the last days of summer fade, members of the 10th Episcopal District are still glowing from the unforgettable Super Summer Leadership Convocation (SSLC), held in July on the historic campus of Paul Quinn College. Led by Rev. Deon Collins, along with a committed team of clergy and laity, the convocation was a Spirit-filled experience for all ages. Perhaps six-year-old Declan Cameron summed it up best in his one-word review: “Epic.”

A Historic Gathering

With more than 1,000 registrants, this multi-day gathering marked a historic first: the inaugural in-person Christian Education Leadership Congress under the leadership of Bishop Ronnie E. Brailsford and Supervisor Carolyn Brailsford. Anchored in the theme “Go Light Our World” (Matthew 5:14–16), the 3-day event ignited leadership gifts, illuminated callings, and empowered participants to shine with clarity, purpose, and bold faith.

Learning, Leading, and Lifting

Learning labs and institutes offered both spiritual activation and practical strategies. Highlights included:

• A church administration toolkit presented by the Connectional Lay Organization Treasurer, Sis. Kathy Drayton.

• A three-part Clergy & Lay Institute with General Officer Rev. Roderick Belin, unpacking the roles  and responsibilities of Stewards, Trustees, and Class Leaders.

• “GLOWing from the Inside Out”, led by Supervisor Brailsford, encouraged participants to discover how to care for your mind, body, and spirit using herbs and natural remedies.

•  “I AM Andrew”, facilitated by Sis.Veronica-Carol Brailsford, challenged attendees to step boldly into their divine assignments becoming faith leaders who invite, introduce, and intercede for their families, churches, and communities.

Even lighter moments carried purpose and allowed us to enjoy Jesus inside and out. Line dancing instruction sparked joy and fellowship, while field day competitions brought together children, youth, and adults for laughter, teamwork, and fun. Texas Got Talent showcased the musical, artistic, and spiritual gifts of young people, and the Debutante and Masters Program affirmed the promise of youth leadership. We’ll never forget the fun of GLOW AfterDark— an enjoyable night of neon lights, intergenerational fun, and a reminder that the light of Christ shines brightest even in dark places.

Worship at the Center

At the heart of convocation, was uplifting worship! We celebrated the return of liturgical dance, youth choirs, and dynamic preaching from Bishop Gregory Eason, Rev. Lamar Jones, Rev. Crystal Okoli, and Bro. Rodrecus Johnson III.

Our special guests, Bishop Gregory V. Eason and Supervisor Linda Eason of the 20th Episcopal District, blessed us in both Word and song. Together, the 10^th Episcopal District extended its light across the globe—giving $10,258 in support of mission work in Malawi, the 4th poorest country in the world.

Every moment reminded us to never dim our light and boldly shine for Christ.

Carrying the Light Forward

More than just a meeting, Super Summer Leadership Convocation was a transformative encounter—full of learning, laughter, praise, and renewal. The GLOW we carry from this convocation reminds us that the season may have changed, but the Spirit continues to move through us.

Summer may be over, but our GLOW is brighter and bolder than before. We step boldly into the fall Annual Conference Series with faith, courage, and conviction. AND we do so with the blessed assurance that with God, NOTHING is impossible!