By Rev. Jesse Jackson
Disciples from Oklahoma joined others from around the country in Dallas, Texas, June 11th – 14th for the 29th Biennial Session of the National Convocation of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The National Convocation was born when the International Convention merged with the National Christian Missionary Convention (NCMC) in 1969. The NCMC was organized by Rev. Preston Taylor and others in 1917.
Although a few African American individuals were members of early Restoration Movement congregations, churches that were organized and led by African Americans were not gathered in a “common witness”, until Taylor and others led to the founding in Nashville. The intention was always to be “partners in mission, instead of “objects” of mission.
After the merger of the two churches, the National Convocation became the home of the African American constituency of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). This Biennial was marked by dynamic preaching and powerful worship, as usual.
But activism and actualizing ministry were front and center when Bishop William Barber, a former Disciple pastor from North Carolina, now of Yale University, was powerful as he connected our civic and theological responsibilities. The Rev.
Dr. Freddie Haynes, a nominee for the U.S. House of Representatives, spoke on the State of the African American Life and Witness in the United States.
The educational opportunities were dynamic and covered everything from Congregational Vitality, End of Life Care, Getting your Financial House in Order to Demystifying Artificial Intelligence, and so much more. Our national church was present from our General Minister and President, Dr. Terri Hord Owens, to Disciples Home Mission President, Dr. Chris Dorsey, Global Ministries President Dr. Lamarco Cable and many others.
Our region was well represented by Phillips Theological Seminary. President Doug Powe and recruitment staff manned a booth and sponsored a lunch that was well attended. Vice President and Dean Dr. Lisa Davison gave us a vital update of new programs that Phillips is now offering.
In addition to Phillips, our Regional Minister, the Rev. Michael Davison, along with pastors and members from East Sixth Street, Wildewood, Shepherd Street, and In the Spirit, were also present.
The Administrative Secretary, the Rev. Dr. Delesslyn Kennebrew has already announced that in June of 2028 the 30th Biennial Session will return to Dallas.
