Schedule for Friday, June 12
Breakfast on your own
7–8 a.m.• Yoga
Sponsored by the Evangelism Conference.
9–10 a.m. • Big Tent Morning Worship
Claudio Carvalhaes, Associate Professor, Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky.
10–10:30 a.m. • Break
10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Children and youth programs
10:30–noon • Big Tent Common Workshops — Session A
Each of the 10 partner conferences is offering workshops during this session; most will be repeated at other sessions. This is an excellent opportunity to experience a topic in an area other than your primary conference track.
Please prioritize your first three choices among all of these when you register.
Led by Sharon Mook, certified pastoral counselor
What are the differences in how various cultures communicate? What role do images, appearance, nonverbal elements, timing, gestures, eye contact, customs and personal space play?
Led by Dana McMahan and Jonathan Dennis, Web content developers, PC(USA)
OK, the site’s been built and launched … now what? How do you keep content fresh, links vital and visitors coming back? How do content management systems work? What kind of security is needed?
Led by Dianna Ott, director of Creative Services, PC(USA)
This workshop is designed to help you understand the new communication tools. Learn about RSS, podcasting, wikis, You Tube, audio and video streaming, blogs and more — how they work and how can you use them most effectively.
Led by Bryan Dunagan, teaching pastor, Peachtree Presbyterian Church, Atlanta, and Nathan Young, graphic communication & technology administrator, Olympia Presbytery
How do you make best use of today’s technology without distracting from or overwhelming the message coming from the pulpit?
Led by Eric Hoey, director, Evangelism and Church Growth, PC(USA)
Remove the fear that Presbyterians have toward evangelism. We will explore the foundations for evangelism, necessity of evangelism, spirituality of evangelism, styles of evangelism and how to communicate the message of evangelism.
Led by Philip Lotspeich, coordinator for Church Growth, PC(USA)
There are many opinions when it comes to growing the church. It seems that where 10 are gathered, there are 10 different opinions on how to grow the church. Explore the different trends in church growth and look at how the church is growing or declining and what seems to be the cause.
Led by Phil Tom, associate, Small Church and Community Ministry, PC(USA)
Focus on why and how congregations can connect with their communities.
Led by Glen McDonald, pastor, Zionsville Presbyterian Church, Zionsville, Indiana
Five times, in five different New Testament books, Jesus defines the Church’s mission for every generation: we are to be disciples who make disciples. How can congregations that have been better equipped to make decisions than to make disciples make the crucial transition from maintenance to missional mode?
Led by Lee Hinson-Hasty, coordinator for Theological Education and Seminary Relations and Martha H. Miller, associate for Certification and Christian Vocation, PC(USA)
All baptized members are called by God, as call is discerned in community. How can we help Presbyterians think, live their lives and make decisions in response to God’s call? Participants will experience an interactive model to reignite the spark of service in God’s name within congregational members.
Led by Paige M. McRight, executive presbyter, Central Florida Presbytery and Member of the FOG Task Force
Why is a new Form of Government being proposed? What are the major changes from our present Form of Government? How can it help the mission of the PC(USA)? These questions and more will be addressed.
Led by Carol Allen and Steve McCutchan, board members, Presbytery Pastoral Care Network (PPCN)
All churches and presbyteries are enriched by the work of healthy pastors. Once you have a healthy pastor, how do you sustain her or his healthiness? Explore practical strategies from the perspective of the pastor and from the perspective of congregations and judicatories.
Led by Graham Standish, pastor, Calvin Presbyterian Church, Zelienople, Pa.
How does group discernment differ from other ways of making decisions? Learn how to use this process in your church or presbytery to follow the Spirit’s leading.
Led by Clark Cowden, executive presbyter, San Diego Presbytery
This workshop explores how the relationship between church and culture has changed over the years and how this created the missional church conversation. We will also discuss what the term “missional church” does and does not mean, and the difference between missional church leadership and American church leadership.
Led by Laurel Underwood Brundage, pastor, Brodheadsville, Pa.
Doors that open to welcome and include all people may open doors to new possibilities. Explore the connections between diversity’s rich biblical history and today’s multicultural world. Learn how and why transforming into a multicultural community may unlock innovation, renewal, revitalization and growth in your church.
Led by Robert Chesnut, retired pastor, Santa Fe, N.M.
Growing the Church Deep and Wide by becoming a multicultural missional church; transcending rigid distinctions between evangelism vs. community, we can reach out to new populations through community-relevant programming, interpersonal networking, diverse worship, community partnerships, service and action, publicity and promotion.
Led by Jin S. Kim, pastor, Church of All Nations, Minneapolis, Minn.
Jin will share what he’s learned from helping to construct a vital mainline congregation of many nations, cultures, languages, generations and denominational backgrounds where people confess who they are, experience healing in intimate community and testify within and without the church to their ongoing journey of transformation and love for Jesus.
Led by Raafat Girgis, Office of the Multicultural Ministries, PC(USA)
The growing diversity in our communities is a golden opportunity for witness, growth and vitality. This workshop helps you understand human diversity in your community, provides tools for a holistic multicultural evangelism, enables you to incorporate this growing diversity in your church and achieve the biblical mandate of becoming a multicultural church.
Led by Nibs Stroupe and Caroline Leach, pastors, Oakhurst Presbyterian Church, Decatur, Ga.
What does it mean to walk with the disciples of the early church? Join us in exploring the hopes, struggles, and possibilities of multicultural worship, Christian education and ministry together. Oakhurst Presbyterian Church has been on this journey for 35 years. We will share what we have learned and how we work and worship together as the church God calls us to be in the 21st century.
Led by Julia Thorne, manager for immigration issues, PC(USA)
Changes in the immigration system are likely in the next couple of years. How are churches responding to new immigrants in our communities and the immigration system in our country? This workshop will provide attendees with all the latest information about immigration in the United States today, hopes for the future and how Presbyterians individually and as churches can respond to newcomers in our communities and help shape our new multicultural reality.
Led by the Rev. Dr. Rhashell D. Hunter, director of Racial Ethnic Women’s Ministries/Presbyterian Women, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
Starting in 2009, the General Assembly has declared two years of intense evangelism and church growth after 24 years of persistent membership decline. Learn how the Racial Ethnic Women’s Ministries/Presbyterian Women ministry area of PC(USA) is responding to the directive. Looking at models of success in PC(USA) racial ethnic, multicultural and transformed congregations, this workshop will teach strategies to foster the growth of our denomination. We will look at the good news stories from congregations from across the country for examples of innovative approaches to evangelism, discipleship, servanthood and diversity.
Led by Robert Hattle, Pastor, Topeka, Ks.; and Fred Bunning, Pastor, Loveland, Colo.
Both a newly minted and retired tentmaker will share the benefits and blessings of the call to bi-vocational ministry from a variety of perspectives. Come share your passion and questions about this model of ministry with one who has recently structured a call with church and Presbytery and a veteran who has seen it all!
Led by Jeff Scott, moderator, Association of Presbyterian Tentmakers and pastor, Creede, Colo.; Ross Blount, pastor, Allerton, Iowa; and Donald West, pastor, Thomasville, Ga.
Three tentmaking pastors will share over 30 years of insight and more than 10 reasons why tentmaking models make sense and embrace a bright future, particularly in a multicultural and racial/ethnic setting. Come hear the story of tentmaking, share your story, and let’s collaborate! Please note that this workshop option does not appear online in registration materials. Those wanting to attend may do so without prior registration.
Led by Sara Lisherness, director, Compassion, Peace and Justice, PC(USA)
Conflict and disagreement are part of life within the church. Participants will share their experiences, practice skills and consider ways to approach conflict that increase the possibility that the experience will be an enlightening, constructive and creative one where we discover God’s grace and the body of Christ is strengthened.
Led by Mark Koenig, coordinator, Presbyterian Peacemaking Program, PC(USA)
The PC(USA) has declared that peacemaking is the believers’ calling. Participants will share about their current ministries and learn ways their congregations can live into this calling constructively and faithfully and explore the resources available through the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program to support peacemaking efforts.
Led by Leslie Woods, associate, Domestic Poverty and Environmental Issues, Presbyterian Washington Office, PC(USA)
Together we will learn about the work of the Washington Office, the theological basis for doing advocacy, and how to be an effective advocate.
Led by Debby Vial, associate for Peacemaking Partnerships, and Jay Rock, coordinator for Interfaith Relations, PC(USA)
As Presbyterians travel to visit our international partners or neighbors of other faiths, it is important that we do so with compassion and care. Participants will identify and practice appropriate, sensitive ways to engage in cross-cultural relationships and share stories of their travel experiences.
Led by Jessica Hawkinson, seminar program intern, Presbyterian United Nations Office, PC(USA)
As Christ’s people we are called to witness to the peace, freedom and justice promised by God in the midst of the violence of war, the suffering of the poor, and the abuse of creation. Come learn how the PC(USA) responds daily in faith at the United Nations, hear how Presbyterian stories are told at the United Nations and how you are a part of this ministry.
Led by members of Presbyterians Against Domestic Violence Network (PADVN), a Network of the Presbyterian Health, Education & Welfare Association (PHEWA)
Walk in the shoes of women who seek safety from their abusive partners. Follow their real-life stories as they leave home and encounter the police, the court, Child Protective Services, the shelter and maybe … the funeral home. Learn how your congregation can “turn mourning into joy.”
Led by Doug Ronsheim, executive director, American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC)
One in four children lives in a household that includes members struggling with addiction and mental health issues impact 25 percent of adults. What are the best ways to minister to children and families? Learn important information and resources to enhance effectiveness in providing optimum care and ministry.
Led by Thelma Burgonia-Watson, Presbyterians Against Domestic Violence Network (PADVN) Leadership Team; Una Stevenson, elder, Plains and Peaks Presbytery and Noelle Damico, PC(USA) Fair Food Campaign
Modern-day slavery thrives along transnational fault lines of extreme poverty, social injustice, corruption and acts of violence and deprivation. Trafficking undermines virtually every aspect of our collective well-being, including security, economic stability and spiritual health. A short video and panel will explore these issues.
Led by Wesley Woo, director of MICAH (New Orleans); Aaron Steele, executive director, Covenant Presbyterian Urban Ministry Institute (New Orleans) and Bob Brashear, PHEWA Board past president
How has congregation-based community organizing brought the voice of the people to ensure just rebuilding? What have congregations, working together, been able to accomplish? What still needs to be done? WHY IS THIS TAKING SO LONG? Learn the facts beyond the headlines from those active on the front lines.
Led by Mark Lomax, pastor, First African Presbyterian Church and interim dean of the Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary, Atlanta, Ga.
Explore how the Belhar confession responds to the current vision of PC(USA) ministries.
Led by Prachuab Dechawan, pastor, Thai-Laotian Presbyterian Fellowship, Las Vegas, Nev.
Explore the myths and facts about evangelism and church growth in transitioning neighborhoods. We will discuss growing the church deep and wide in evangelism, discipleship, servanthood and diversity.
Led by Irvin Potter, pastor, Church of Indian Fellowship, Puyallup, Wash.
Discuss ways to engender cultural proficiency, fight racism and poverty and advocate for economic justice.
Led by James Reese, Minister for Specialized Interpretation, Presbyterian Foundation
There are gifts, histories and perspectives from Asians, Blacks, Latinos, Native Americans and Middle Easterners that can enrich and aid our giving and stewardship in the whole church.
Led by Karl Travis, pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Ft. Worth, Texas
Our whole lives are a response in gratitude to the grace and love of God in Jesus Christ. Stewardship should be a natural part of our preaching. Learn from one of the denomination’s most gifted stewardship preachers how to embolden and enrich your preaching with stewardship themes.
Led by Lis Valle, associate director, Equipping for Mission Involvement, PC(USA)
Mission engagement is one expression of stewardship. As more and more congregations participate in firsthand mission experiences rather than mission by proxy, how do we carry out mission that is effective, sustainable, faithful and connected to the whole church?
Leader to be announced
Led by Jack Hodges, small church pastor and retired executive presbyter, Cascades Presbytery
What are tried and proven practices for cultivating stewardship among smaller member congregations? Discover models, ideas, and practices that foster deeper commitment in congregations with fewer than 100 members.
Led by Joan Gray, Moderator of the 217th General Assembly (2006)
This workshop will give an overview of the characteristics and practices that make for effective and vibrant spiritual leadership in the congregation. Subjects will include discerning God’s will, dealing with conflict, ways to create a supportive climate for lay spiritual leadership and self-care and spiritual nourishment of officers.
Led by Gradye Parsons, Stated Clerk of the General Assembly
Focusing on the key leadership roles of elders, participants will discover that the Book of Order does not ask them to be a board of directors, but equal partners in ministry with the pastor(s) in their congregation.
Led by Stephany Jackson, associate for Congregational Leadership, PC(USA) and stated-supply pastor, Shawnee Presbyterian Church, Louisville, Ky.
According to James 5:16, “… The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective.” As an elder, your prayers mean more than you may realize. Through prayer, we commend others and ourselves into God’s care. When we pray we acknowledge our need for God’s guidance and God’s grace. When we pray, we confess our failures, our fears, our need to forgive and to be forgiven. During this workshop, participants will learn about five basic types of prayer and become more familiar with prayers that can be used for personal devotions, hospital visits, family celebrations and corporate worship.
Led by Elaine Barnett and Vince Patton, director of Church Relations, Communications and Staff Services, Presbyterian Publishing Corporation
Helping new and experienced PC(USA) church officers understand their role is a major way to strengthen the mission and ministry of a congregation. Identifying excellent and accessible officer training resources is a key to significant officer development. Participants will learn about denominational resources for church leaders and creative ways to use them in developing and training leaders. Participants will also learn firsthand about PresbyterianLeader.com, an exciting new Web site for Presbyterian leaders that includes worship aids, church officer training materials, thought-provoking essays from Presbyterian leaders, baptism and ordination certificates and other resources. PresbyterianLeader.com was developed by the Presbyterian Publishing Corporation in partnership with the Office of the General Assembly and offices in the General Assembly Council.
Friday lunch • Noon–1 p.m.
$28
One ticket is included in the Big Tent registration fee.
Additional tickets are available for purchase.
Bring your box lunch and join others to discuss:
- Parish Nursing in Your Congregation
- Single Payer/Universal Health Care Reform
Friday afternoon opportunities
these afternoon and evening sessions include concurrent or overlapping tours, workshops and conference plenary sessions. Review the schedule carefully to plan your time.
If you plan to attend one of the conference plenary sessions, it is not necessary to sign up in advance.
Advance registration is required for the tours, which are ticketed. If you plan to attend a workshop, please prioritize your first three choices among all the workshops offered in each session when you register.
Tours
Ticket required — order when you register in advance; note that these coincide with afternoon plenary sessions and workshops.
$13
CNN Tour and Q&A session with CNN insider. PCN registrants only; space is limited. CNN is a short ½ mile walk (downhill) from the Hyatt. The tour requires extensive walking in the CNN building and the ability to climb stairs. A Q&A session with a CNN insider will be held at the nearby Omni Hotel. We will then walk back (uphill) to the Hyatt.
2–5 p.m. • PHEWA Off-Site Seminars
No charge.
Led by Marsha Snulligan Haney, ITC Professor of Missiology and Religions of the World; Keith L. Riddle, Presbyterian AIDS Network (PAN)
The AIDS Memorial Quilt is a national cultural phenomenon. The collaborative art project is the premiere symbol of the AIDS pandemic and a memorial to a generation lost to AIDS. Following the Quilt visit, the trip continues to ITC for a workshop on the HIV/AIDS pandemic with students and faculty.
Pete Correll, Grady Health System board president and elder at Trinity Presbyterian Church, Atlanta, will bring greetings
Grady Health System is one of the largest public health systems in the country. With a commitment to the health needs of the underserved, it provides a vital safety net for the region. We will learn about many of Grady’s nationally acclaimed services and hear about the struggles the system faces.
Led by Lisa Wise, executive director, Initiative for Affordable Housing
The Initiative for Affordable Housing provides permanent, affordable housing for families who are homeless and low-income and supportive social services to ensure success. Families become homeless for a variety of reasons: job loss, healthcare costs, domestic violence, eviction, etc. Experience what one program is doing to help.
2:30-5 p.m. • PHEWA Film Festival
No charge. At the Hyatt. Overwhelmed by conference workshops and need a place to rest? Come to the film festival that will feature a number of short DVDs. No talk, just “being.” Visit the PHEWA booth to see the films and times they are playing. Viewing schedule will also be posted outside the film festival location.
1:30-3 p.m. • Conference Plenary Sessions 1
No advance sign up is required.
Led by James Mead, associate pastor, Chapel Hill Presbyterian Church, Tacoma, Wash; former executive presbyter, Pittsburgh Presbytery (1998-2007).
Speakers: Jill Hudson, coordinator, Middle Governing Bodies, PC(USA), and George Goodman, associate presbyter, Peaks Presbytery, Lynchburg, Va.
Speaker: Carlos Cardoza-Orlandi, Professor of World Christianity, Columbia Theological Seminary, Decatur, Ga.
An ordained minister of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), he is an active participant in inter-cultural and inter-religious activities in the Atlanta area, the Caribbean, and Latin America.
Speaker: Rodger Nishioka, the Benton Associate Professor of Christian Education, Columbia Theological Seminary, Decatur, Ga.
Led by Mark Lomax, pastor, First African Presbyterian Church, and interim dean, Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary, Atlanta
In the first gathering as the Peacemaking Conference, participants will build community through song and interaction and explore what it means to be a neighbor.
Speaker: Buddy Monahan, Chaplain, Menaul School, Albuquerque, N.M.
Speaker: Karl Travis, pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Ft. Worth, Texas
1:30-3 p.m. • Workshop Session B
Please prioritize your first three workshop choices if you plan to attend a workshop during this session.
Led by Ricardo Moreno, National Organizer for Latino Relations, Bread for the World, and an elder at Immanuel Presbyterian Church, Los Angeles, Calif.
This workshop will assist Presbyterian congregations to develop advocacy strategies for a new comprehensive immigration system in the United States.
Led by Beth Newberry, Mission Communication Associate, PC(USA)
Participants will learn how to construct and effective national network as a group tool for communication, information, and representation in the PC(USA). Understand your group’s communications needs and goals. Take home skills on creating an effective communication strategy.
3-3:30 p.m. • Break
3:30-5 p.m. • Conference Plenary Session 2
No advance sign up is required.
Speaker: Joan Gray, Moderator of the 217th General Assembly (2006)
Led by Eric Hoey, Director of the Evangelism Ministry, PC(USA)
Led by Karen Schmidt, deputy executive director, Communications and Funds Development, PC(USA)
For religion communicators, communication is more than just a job. We are called to tell the Good News in ways that lead to participation and engagement. Karen Schmidt will open the PCN 2009 national conference with this inspiring keynote presentation, exploring how mission interpretation leads to mission participation. She will discuss how we can use storytelling in ways that lead to transformation, and explore how we can inspire, equip and connect our constituencies to our common calling.
Led by Mark Lomax, pastor, First African Presbyterian Church, and interim dean, Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary, Atlanta; and Mark Koenig, coordinator, Presbyterian Peacemaking Program, PC(USA)
Participants will engage in small group conversations in which they share their experiences of being neighbors.
3:30-5:00 p.m. • Workshop Session C
Please prioritize your first three workshop choices if you plan to attend a workshop during this session.
Healthy Ministry Conference Workshops
Led by Joyce Lieberman, associate for Church Leadership Connection, PC(USA)
Geared toward those who are new to COM, this workshop will provide an overview of the roles, responsibilities, and work of COM along with a review of resources to help COM do its work.
Led by Linda Tyler, CPM Trainers Network, Mission Presbytery
How does an ordinary person turn into a candidate for ministry? The answer is that God does that; the CPM just points the way through the PC(USA) process. Participants will study the road map that leads to ordained ministry, sharing what works and what does not, as we learn the best ways to fulfill our calling to care for those inquirers and candidates entrusted to our CPMs.
Led by Jill Hudson, Coordinator of Middle Governing Bodies, PC(USA)
This workshop will examine the steps to leading effective change in church systems as well as exploring the emotional dynamics of change.
Led by Liza Hendricks, executive presbyter, Presbytery of Western Reserve
It is painful when brothers and sisters in Christ choose to disassociate with the PC(USA). How can we deal constructively with our differences and go our separate ways with healthy, grace-filled processes?
Led by Joe Sandifer, Pastor to Pastors, Greater Atlanta Presbytery
The move from “classroom to pulpit,” from “seminary to parish,” is not always easy. This workshop explores ways to help presbyteries care for first call pastors. We will outline ways to start a program, share models of current programs, and look at one program in depth that has three important components: personal support groups, mentoring and special retreats.
Led by Sheryl Taylor, staff, Grace Presbytery
As a leader of a CPM or COM, how do you equip members to do their work well? How do you find time? What resources are available? How do you work effectively with presbytery, synod and General Assembly staff? These questions will be addressed and best practices shared.
Led by D. Cameron Murchison, Dean of Faculty/Executive Vice President, Columbia Theological Seminary
Theological education exists to equip the church’s ministry. Participants will identify some of the growing edges for seminaries as they seek to respond to the needs of a changing church. Conversation will also focus on how partnerships between seminaries and the church can be strengthened.
Led by Diana Barber, Associate Synod Executive for Leadership Development, Synod of Lakes and Prairies
The most appropriate, faithful and pastoral response is sometimes to “just say no.” When is “no” a helpful response? When is it too late? Once you’ve said “no,” how do you anticipate the consequences? How do you deal with all those who feel rejected by “no”? This workshop will address these and other important questions.
Led by Marcia Myers, director, Office of Vocation, PC(USA) and Presbytery Representatives
This workshop will address what is happening with CLPs, answering such questions as: How do you determine when and where to use CLPs? What are key considerations in planning CLP education? How do you support good teamwork between CLPs and minister moderators and mentors?
New Immigrant Ministries Convocation Workshops
Led by Ricardo Moreno, National Organizer for Latino Relations, Bread for the World, and an Elder at Immanuel Presbyterian Church, Los Angeles, Calif.
This workshop will assist Presbyterian congregations to develop advocacy strategies for a new comprehensive immigration system in the United States.
Led by Beth Newberry, Mission Communication Associate, PC(USA)
Participants will learn how to construct and effective national network as a group tool for communication, information, and representation in the PC(USA). Understand your group’s communications needs and goals. Take home skills on creating an effective communication strategy.
Multicultural Church Conference Workshops
Led by Jin S. Kim, pastor, Church of All Nations, Minneapolis, Minn.
Jin will share what he’s learned from helping to construct a vital mainline congregation of many nations, cultures, languages, generations and denominational backgrounds where people confess who they are, experience healing in intimate community and testify within and without the church to their ongoing journey of transformation and love for Jesus.
Led by Lucas de Paiva Pina, coordinator, Tri-presbytery Immigrant Ministry, Atlanta
This workshop will show the first steps in how to start a ministry with immigrants in your neighborhood, with its challenges, difficulties, as well as its positive aspects.
Led by George R. Packard, independent consultant and trainer, and Wanda Lundy, pastor, Church on the Edge, Edgewater, N.J.
This brief overview of strategic planning process highlights critical exercises that build foundational consensus of practical value direction in local congregations or mission entities. It shows how to get beyond value clichés to practical visionary actions which manifest the entity in its ever-deepening, called self-understanding.
Led by Sid Birt, elder, Westminster Presbyterian Church, Portland, Ore., and David B. Bowie, member, National Anti-Racism Training team
In this interactive workshop the participants will learn basic definitions of culture, race and racism and work in small groups to clarify understanding of the terms and develop definitions that will influence their approach to anti-racism in their spheres of influence. The participants will also have the opportunity to explore ethnocentrism as a barrier to or an aid to cultural proficiency and identify and list activities we can take to confront, reduce and eliminate racism from our country, community and church.
Led by Cathy Cummings Chisholm, pastor, Tres Rios Presbytery, El Paso, Texas, and Laurel Underwood Brundage, pastor, Brodheadsville, Pa.
Contemplative, contemporary, meditative, interactive, experiential ... worship should be anything but routine and rigid. We’ll explore how a variety of styles can bring multicultural life to worship and create a climate of hospitality.
Stewardship & Investment Conference Workshops
Leader to be announced
Led by Anita Clemons, senior vice president and chief investment officer, Presbyterian Foundation
Led by Annette Calderwood Shoemaker, regional vice president, Presbyterian Foundation
Led by Meyer Partners
This workshop is intended especially for Middle Governing Body staff.
Led by the Board of Pensions and Presbyterian Foundation
This workshop includes discussion of terms of call.
Led by Jon Brown, Director of Mission Interpretation, PC(USA) and Kevin Park, Associate for Theology and Stewardship, PC(USA)
5:30-6:30 p.m. • Workshop Session D
Please prioritize your first three workshop choices if you plan to attend a workshop during this session.
Presbyterian Communicators’ Network Workshops
Led by Sharon Mook, certified pastoral counselor
What are the differences in how various cultures communicate? What role do images, appearance, nonverbal elements, timing, gestures, eye contact, customs and personal space play?
Led by Genie Hambrick, director of communications, Columbia Theological Seminary, and Marta Kramer, director of communications, Synod of Lincoln Trails
How do you get content? What are the pros and cons of print vs. electronic newsletters? What desktop publishing options are available? What are the elements of good design and layout? Leaders will help you ensure your newsletter falls into the “good” or even “great” category.
Led by David Crittenden, co-exectutive, Synod of Lincoln Trails
David Crittenden offers help to “word people” who struggle to interpret numbers and data for their organizations. Learn how to interpret budgets and other numerical data to tell the stories behind the figures … stories that will lead to a better understanding, increased engagement, and ongoing excitement and involvement.
Friday Dinners
This dinner is not included in the Big Tent registration fee, but participants are encouraged to attend one of these meals sponsored by some of the partner conferences. These are additional opportunities to meet others who share your interests and to hear from great speakers. You may take part in a meal sponsored by the conference that is your primary affiliation, or choose another, but note that some conferences waive the additional meal fee for attendees who are registered for that conference.
Registering for a particular conference does not automatically register you for other meals offered by that conference — you must indicate these additional meals when you register so we will have an accurate count.
Sponsored by the Presbytery of Greater Atlanta Peacemaking Committee
$12 for adults / $8 for children (12 and under)
Dinner will take place at North Avenue Presbyterian on the corner of 12 and under North Avenue and Peachtree Street (607 Peachtree St. NE), a 12 minute walk from the Hyatt. Funds raised from the meal will support peacemaking work in the Greater Atlanta area through the church and the presbytery.
$40
$40 (ticket fee waived for Healthy Ministry Conference registrants)
Church and Seminary Working Together in God’s New Day
Speaker: Laura Mendenhall, president, Columbia Theological Seminary
$40 (ticket fee waived for Multicultural Conference registrants)
$40 (ticket fee waived for Racial Ethnic Convocation registrants)
$40 (Ticket fee waived for New Immigrant Ministries Convocation registrants)
Speaker: Tony Aja, evangelist/coordinator, Hispanic-Latino Ministry, Presbytery of Mid-Kentucky
No charge • Sponsored by the Presbyterian Foundation
Why It’s Important to Invest in a Manner Consistent with Presbyterian Values
Speaker: Anita Clemons, senior vice president and chief investment officer, Presbyterian Foundation, and William Somplatsky-Jarman, associate, Mission Responsibility Through Investment, PC(USA)
$20
Honoree: the Rev. Dr. Johnnie Monroe
Johnnie Monroe has been a tireless advocate and fighter for justice and human dignity among all people, growing out of the historic struggle for justice, rooted in the African American experience. Come and honor Dr. Monroe who through love and social justice advocacy has been a blessing to the thousands of people who’ve been touched by his work in Christ’s name.
Friday Evening Plenary Sessions
Opportunity to share news and events.
Models of Multicultural Church.
World Class Elders.
7:00-8:30 p.m. • Workshop Session E
Please prioritize your first three workshop choices if you plan to attend a workshop during this session.
Healthy Ministry Conference Workshops
Led by Joyce Lieberman, associate for Church Leadership Connection, PC(USA)
This workshop will explore if, when and how the spiritual practice of communal discernment can be used to enhance the work of COM, both within COM and among those with whom COM works.
Led by Linda Tyler, CPM Trainers Network
How does a CPM recognize, find, and encourage people whom God may be calling for ministry? Participants will share and discover effective ways to develop awareness of call in local congregations as well as in CPMs.
Led by Joe Sandifer, pastor to pastors, Presbytery of Greater Atlanta, Atlanta, Ga.
Ministers and their families are special people. Yet many who pastor others have no pastor themselves. While this workshop will consider how congregations can care for their pastors and how pastors can engage in self-care, the main focus will be how presbyteries can care for “those under their care.” We will share various models and best practices presbyteries can use.
Led by Clark Cowden, executive presbyter, San Diego Presbytery
This workshop explores how the relationship between church and culture has changed over the years and how this created the missional church conversation. We will also discuss what the term “missional church” does and does not mean, and the difference between missional church leadership and American church leadership.
Led by David Henderson, member of CPM Trainers Network, Mission Presbytery
This workshop will focus on emotional intelligence and its importance to the health and future of the church. Much of our history was influenced by IQ, with mixed results. Emotional intelligence promises to give us far more bang for our buck. Participants will have the opportunity to practice a bit of self-assessment during the workshop.
Led by Doska Ross, manager, Polity Guidance and Training, and Marcia Myers, director, Office of Vocation, PC(USA)
How do CPMs and COMs help presbyteries examine for ministry and for membership in the presbytery? What is required? These questions will be addressed and best practices shared.
Led by Jack Haberer, editor, The Presbyterian Outlook
Presbyterians have serious disagreements about important issues. How can presbyteries deal with these issues faithfully and effectively? When we are divided, how can we work with candidates, pastors, and congregations in healthy ways?
Led by Phil Tom, associate for Small Church & Community Ministry, PC(USA)
This workshop will explore the various models of ministry for smaller membership churches.
Led by Scott Lumsden, executive presbyter, Seattle Presbytery
How can we deal effectively when candidates are in conflict with a CPM, when a pastor and congregation are at odds, or when a PNC is angry with the COM? This workshop will give insights about healthy ways to work with such situations and provide suggestions for conflict prevention.
Led by Vicky McCreary, associate executive director, Midwest Ministries Development Services
This workshop will seek to help CPM members understand the process of candidate assessment, the tools used, how to read the reports, and what to do to clarify areas of concern in the reports. Some time will be used to discuss the impact of culture in assessment.
Friday Evening Hospitalities
$15 for adults / $10 for children 12 and under (ticket fee waived for Peacemaking Conference registrants.)
Dessert and Conversation with New Neighbors — unwind from the day with old and new friends through engaging conversations concerning our church, our nation and our world. All Big Tent participants are welcome. Tickets are available for the dessert; the conversation is free.
Sarah Humphrey, director, Presbyterian Answer to Hunger, Presbytery of Greater Atlanta
Learn about the Joining Hands for Justice Partnership between the Presbytery of Greater Atlanta and a network of Palestinian churches, grass roots groups, and NGO’s in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Joining Hands is a program of the Presbyterian Hunger Program.
Sam Jones, assistant director of the Human Rights Program, Carter Center, Atlanta, Ga.
The Carter Center Human Rights Program focuses on advancing human rights, waging peace through shuttle diplomacy and dialogue, and supporting electoral reform and good governance. The program builds constructive relationships among Israeli and Palestinian human rights advocates, U.S. and U.N. policymakers, the media, and key U.S. constituent groups for the purpose of encouraging a U.S. foreign policy based on peace with justice and in accordance with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Rick Ufford-Chase, director, Presbyterian Peace Fellowship, Stony Point, N.Y. and Mark Koenig, coordinator, Presbyterian Peacemaking Program, PC(USA)
Consider how events in Iraq (the aftermath of war, occupation, and violence) impact those serving in our military and their families, Iraqis — including those who have been driven from their homes and in some cases the country, the Christian community in Iraq and others. Ideas for ministry with our sisters and brothers will be shared.
Caroline Kelly, associate pastor, Central Presbyterian Church, co-chair, Public Policy Advocacy Committee, and Wendell Phillips, public policy advocate Presbytery of Greater Atlanta
Explore how Presbyterians live out our call to "do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with our God" in the public square.
Chris Henry, associate pastor, Morningside Presbyterian Church, faith-based organizer for the Georgia Minimum Wage Coalition, Atlanta, Ga.
In 2007, the Georgia Minimum Wage Coalition enlisted the help and support of the faith community in its effort to raise the minimum wage in Georgia. This conversation will focus on the importance of faith-based components in public policy advocacy work and share the story of the impact the religious community can have on policy-making decisions.
Kate McGregor Mosley, southeast regional coordinator, Presbyterians for Restoring Creation, Decatur, Ga.
How can congregations be passionate about earth stewardship as a model of faithful living? What resources are available to congregations for this ministry?
Julia Thorne, PC(USA) immigration counsel and manager for Immigration Issues, Louisville, Ky.
What changes do we need in our immigration system? How might the discussion around immigration change under a new administration? How do we welcome new immigrants in our churches and communities? Share ideas about how we can be part of the immigration story in the 21st century. We will talk about advocacy and ministry ideas related to immigration issues in our communities.
Jeff Peterson-Davis, co-pastor, Pioneer Memorial Presbyterian Church, Solon, Ohio
Singing songs of peace stirs our souls and gives voice to our vision and hope for a world where peace and justice prevail. In Civil Rights anthems, hymns of faith, classic folk tunes, and always a new song, we are renewed and emboldened as our voices are joined. Join the chorus as we sing some of our favorite songs of peace!
Sid Birt, faculty, Concordia University and Mount Hood Community College, chair of the Mission Support Committee, Cascades Presbytery, Portland, Ore.
Developing an antiracist identity as a congregation and as individuals is a life-long journey that involves a conscious commitment to change. What is antiracism? Beginning with the definition that is in the PC(USA) antiracism training manual, participants will consider the meaning and implications for being antiracist and ways to develop practices that promote equity and justice in our lives, congregations and communities.
Cindy Bolbach and Dan Williams, Co-Moderators, Form of Government Task Force.
The latest version of the proposed new Form of Government is currently before the denomination for study and response. Join members of the Form of Government Task Force for conversation about this proposal as it makes its way to the 219th General Assembly (2010).
David Eicher, hymnal editor, Presbyterian Publishing Corporation
Explore how the new Presbyterian hymnal can become a peacemaking tool.
Bruce Reyes-Chow, moderator, 218th General Assembly (2008), and Byron Wade, vice-moderator, 218th General Assembly (2008), PC(USA)
Listen to the stories and musings and ask questions of Moderator and Vice-Moderator.
Meghan Brown Saavedra, student, Columbia Theological Seminary, and intern, Refugee Resettlement and Immigration Services of Atlanta
Affiliated with Church World Service, RRISA’s mission is to resettle refugees who are approved by the United Nations and US State department for refugee status. Annually, RRISA resettles about 550 refugees from around the world in the Atlanta area. Many have lived in refugee camps for 10-20 years after fleeing war, displacement, and political and religious persecution in their home countries. RRISA connects to Presbyterians in Greater Atlanta Presbytery and to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance in this ministry of welcoming sisters and brothers to the neighborhood.
No charge.
No charge.
Evangelism with live music.
Colin Pritchard, folk singer and pastor of Victoria Presbyterian Church, Rochester, N.Y.
Open to all! Come learn about our grassroots justice ministries:
- Presbyterian Association for Community Transformation (PACT)
- Presbyterian Health Network (PHN)
- Presbyterian Association of Specialized Pastoral Ministries (PASPM)
- Presbyterian for Addiction Action (PAA)/Presbyterian Serious Mental Illness Network (PSMIN)
Led by Sara Lisherness, director, Compassion, Peace and Justice, PC(USA) and Mark Koenig, coordinator, Presbyterian Peacemaking Program, PC(USA)
In the tradition of Jesus who prayed for the peace of Jerusalem, we will gather to pray for people, places, and situations around God's world. Participants will have the opportunity to identify concerns and joys to lift to God in a variety of forms of prayer. All participants are welcomed!
Leader and location to be announced.
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