https://www.instagram.com/blackliturgies/

https://www.facebook.com/blackliturgist

https://colearthurriley.com/

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"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed [people] can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." -- Margaret Mead

When Jesus began His ministry, He immediately formed a small group. Following in the footsteps of Jesus, we are continuing to offer opportunities to gather in small groups for discussion and empowerment around the prominent topics swirling in the crucible of change for all of us as leaders.

Choose your own adventure! A majority of this hour will be spent in breakout rooms with conversations facilitated by ELCA Coaches focused on:

  • Leading in a Politically Diverse Congregation / Community
  • Leading Through Institutional Decline: How to Honor the Past and Trust God with Our Future
  • How to Connect with the Wider Community in Collaborative and Life-Giving Ways
  • Race Relations and White Supremacy
  • Stewardship and Discipleship with Overworked, Maxed-out Members

Like each of you, we learn and pivot, repeatedly. We will update and shape topics based on participation and feedback.

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To answer some commonly asked questions about these regular gatherings:

"Why are you still meeting?" "Don't become too familiar with loneliness. Community is a risk, but liberation depends on the collective. Who can you trust to hold you?" -- Cole Arthur Riley, author of Black Liturgies

"How can I prepare?" Courageous leaders pay attention and listen actively. We invite you to bring a spirit of curiosity and openness to these gatherings and to all aspects of your life. What are you noticing? Where is Spirit moving? How are you being invited to participate in the work God is already doing, especially outside the walls of the building where the church often gathers?
 
"What if I'm not a group person?" Courageous leaders take calculated risks. We invite you to take a small step outside your comfort zone and allow yourself to be seen and witnessed. We can almost guarantee that you will be pleasantly surprised by the loving, caring, and nurturing nature of community in this time together.