by Adam Faughn

SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. (BNc) — Just over 2000 people met in the Smokey Mountains for the 2010 Polishing the Pulpit series, a record attendance in the 15-year history of the event. At one time, all those who were present for the first time were asked to raise their hand. Hands went up all over the room.

Over 100 different speakers presented lessons and seminars on topics for all members of the Lord’s Church, including specific lessons for preachers, youth workers, elders, deacons, members, ladies, leaders’ wives, teens, children, and Hispanic workers. In all, over 300 lessons were delivered at the event, which began on Friday evening and concluded just before noon on Thursday.

While there were over 2000 in attendance, many suggested that Polishing the Pulpit was very relaxing, in part because many attendees stayed in the Wilderness at the Smokies hotel, which connects to the Sevierville Events Center, where Polishing the Pulpit is held. The beautiful hotel and the beauty of the mountains in the distance help provide a relaxing setting.

Providing space for up to 10 concurrent sessions, the Sevierville Events Center fits this size event well, and makes for a beautiful setting. The Center provides access to many restaurants that are less than five miles away, and also has several in-house offerings. In all, this is a great event that currently has a good location to aid the attendees, both in their learning and in their ability to enjoy and relax.

The staff and volunteers for Polishing the Pulpit worked very hard to make the week smooth and enjoyable. Including the recording of lessons, there were dozens of behind the scenes activities that were done in a fine way, so all in attendance could enjoy and learn from each session.

Personally, it was our first time to attend Polishing the Pulpit, and we are already making plans to attend in 2011. Each person who worked on the event did a great job and helped provide a Biblical and uplifting series of lessons and events. It is our prayer that this great week continues to grow and that more Christians would come to learn in this beautiful setting.

For more information about Polishing the Pulpit, visit their website.

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