For the past month or so, mission co-workers with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) have been traveling the country, sharing stories of service with 152 presbyteries as part of the World Mission Challenge. But from Oct. 22-24, they’ll gather in Cincinnati for the World Mission Celebration.
As a conference for anyone with an interest in mission, the celebration will offer workshops, plenary sessions, exhibits and activities for people with all mission backgrounds and levels of experience.
“It is lifting up God’s work in the world and pointing to (attendees) how they can be part of it,” said Don Dawson, chairman of the conference’s planning committee and director of the World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. “That should bring joy and fulfillment to anyone.”
Centered on three themes — connecting, learning and sending — the celebration will provide chances to network with mission co-workers and personnel, educate on mission work and needs and highlight ways to get involved.
Although pastors and mission committee members might most greatly benefit from the conference, one of its strong points is its focus on unity, Dawson said.
Based on John 15, the celebration’s theme is “Branches of the same vine.” That phrase focuses on Jesus as the source of all fruit we’re able to bear, Dawson said. It also reinforces the breadth, diversity and unity of mission work in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
“We’re all working to bear the same fruit,” he said.
The conference will lift up the work of the General Assembly Mission Council’s World Mission area, but it will also celebrate the work being done by individuals and congregations.
“I’m excited about the way in which we’re trying to lift up grassroots mission initiators,” Dawson said. “It’s Presbyterians living out their faith.”
To see a full schedule or register for the celebration, click here.