Christian conference aims to enhance relationships through Bible parables

Advertiser Staff

"How to Walk 2001 — Hawai'i's Christian Growth Seminar" is set for the Hawai'i Convention Center on July 14.

The annual conference is geared toward Christians and non-Christians alike.

"With the hectic schedules and pressures that we all experience with family, work and everything else going on, often we feel like we're just slaves to the system," said Bill Stonebraker, pastor of Calvary Chapel Honolulu who will be speaking at the conference. Through the seminar, "we're trying to bring out the Bible's perspective on how to live in an abundant way, in relationships with others and God," he said.

Pastors from around the country will be coming to speak to Island residents, including Chuck Smith, founder of the Calvary Chapel church, and Greg Laurie, who started the evangelistic Harvest Crusades. Drawing from the Bible, each pastor will seek the life of Jesus Christ through one or a combination of several parables, or "earthly stories of heavenly truths," as Stonebraker puts it, and explain how the parable is applicable to their own and others' lives.

"Many times, people bring their (nonbelieving) neighbor or relative, and that person ends up finding that there's so much good and practical application from the Bible — people just leave with a spiritual high," Stonebraker said.

The conference will also feature worship and praise songs, as well as a performance by special musical guests 2 or More.

Sponsored by the Christian radio station KLHT, 1040 AM, the conference is free and open to everyone. No registration is necessary, and the seminar will run from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be a lunch break but a meal is not provided. Information: 524-0844.