Day 1: YWAM leaders meet in Hawaii

GLT members were also welcomed by YWAM President John Dawson and Asia & Pacific Field Director Tom Hallas. Tom called YWAM an idea born in the heart of God. "When we gather as the eldership, we look into each others' eyes, breathe the same breath and know we have no hidden agendas."

One of the first orders of business was discussion of extending the terms of the current Team 3 leadership. Founder Loren Cunningham has asked that for continuity sake terms be extended through 2010, the year of YWAM's 50th anniversary celebration. With travel getting more expensive and difficult, GLT members were asked to consider whether they should continue meeting annually or to meet every other year, possibly linking their meeting to University of the Nations International Workshops. Loren suggested meeting via GENESIS videoconferencing in non-workshop years. "We know we need an operations and obligations group needed for senior leadership appointments, policy issues and communication," said John. "We need a small executive team with accountability to the broader group of international leaders. And we need to integrate the wisdom and vision of our founding fathers with the energy of our youth."

During their first day, GLT members approved new leaders for North India, Brazil, North Africa and Frontier Missions. They also received drafts of new Child Protection Guidelines and new Memorandum of Understanding for how local YWAM bases relate to local and international leadership. One suggested change was that boards be made up of one-third local YWAM leaders, one-third outside YWAM leaders and the other third non-YWAM leaders. The new document also provides greater accountability on finances, especially if a base closes and assets are dispersed.

This weekend the GLT members will begin taking part in an International Prayer and Strategy Conference that continues through Sept. 4.

Click here to watch a video about the GLT's first day.