Leadership Training Workshops
Justice Lectures
We are a movement for wholeness in a fragmented world.
9:30 -10:30 am
Rev. Teresa “Terri” Hord Owens
Location: Sanctuary
“The Ministry of Justice in a Fragmented World – Lessons from Disciples”
How do we understand the theological foundations for engaging in the work of justice? What can help us better work together advocating for the way of Jesus in our society? We’ll discuss the Biblical foundations for the ministry of justice, and share stories from ministry among Disciples.
Rev. Shannon Fleck, Exec. Director, Oklahoma Conference of Churches
Location: Chapel
How does Racism affect the experience of God’s people in the United States in modern society? This workshop will put three hot button topics together for an important conversation about moving the faith community towards wholeness and advocacy against racism in this day and time.
Rev. Dr. Lisa Davison
Location: Fellowship Hall
Taking Care of the Least of These: Hospitality is a key theme in the Hebrew Bible, and is understood as much more than “good manners” or “greeting guests.” The ancient texts depict hospitality as an act of justice commanded by the Divine. We will consider what the Hebrew Bible can teach us about taking care of the “least of these.”
Dr. Peter Makari and Rebekah Choate
Location: Homebuilders Classroom
Learn about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the work of Global Ministries, partners in the area, and how Disciples are engaged. Middle East and Europe Area Executive, Dr. Peter Makari and Rebekah Choate, Associate for Global Advocacy and Education will be presenting.
Regional Youth Council
Location: Room 114
Those members of the Regional Youth Council participating in the International Affairs Seminar in March of 2019 will present on IAS, what they hope to get out of the event, and more about the topic they will be studying during the week, human trafficking.
Rev. Brandon Johnson
Location: Room 115
Over the past 4 years, First Christian Church Lawton experienced growth and a renewed commitment to ministries that impact the most vulernable of Lawton. Join us as we tell stories and explore models for ministry with the homeless and food insecure.
Disciples Roots
As part of the one body of Christ.
2:00 -3:00 pm
Rev. Dr. Lisa Davison
Location: Sanctuary
While many people are aware of certain Spiritual Disciplines (e.g., fasting, prayer, lectio divina, etc.), they do not think of critical interpretation of biblical texts as one of them. This workshop examines this ancient practice as a Spiritual Discipline vital to our Disciples’ heritage.
Pastor Milton Bowens, Jr.
Location: Chapel
Engaging ALL voices at the table of the 21st Century Church addresses the most significant societal trends that impact the church, and offers insight to what the 21st century church is forming into, with practical ways the church can respond by engaging all voices (ie: age, gender, race, etc).
Rev. Courtney Richards
Location: Homebuilders
What do deacons do, and why? Why does it matter if someone is at the door saying hello? Does the donut make the morning? How can a note card change a life? There is no magic potion, and welcome is not one size fits all. But every church can do a little something, and it will mean more than you know.
Rev. Joshua Bell
Location: Room 116
We will discuss Elders and Deacon resources such as prayers at the table, visitation techniques and finally ways to lift the clergy in our congregations. This will be an interactive group with lots of discussion. Finally, this group will help create a website that shares resources.
Rev. Geoffrey Brewster
Location: 114
Are you called to ministry? Are you unsure what is required of you? There are a variety of paths to become credentialed as a minister within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) join Rev. Geoffrey Brewster (Phillips Theological Seminary), as we explore these various paths and help you discern which path might be right for you.
Arthur Younger
Location: Room 115
Come learn how you can get involved with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. There are many opportunities for community involvement including volunteerism, partnerships and donations.
Inclusivity
We welcome all to the table as God has welcomed us.
3:15 -4:15 pm
Rev. Dr. Nancy Pittman, President, Phillips Theological Seminary
Location: Sanctuary
Although the word “church” never appears in the Gospel of John, there are instructions about how to live as a faithful community embedded in this telling of the gospel. These words can help us re-learn how to be church in the midst of a time when being church seems irrelevant and powerless.
Dr. Lisa Barnett
Location: Chapel
The concept of unity has been foundational in the Stone-Campbell Movement, yet Disciples have not been as successful in achieving it. This workshop will explore the historical trajectories of the principle of unity to help find new ways of seeking solidarity in mutual ministry.
Pastor Tara Dew
Location: Homebuilders Room
What is intergenerational ministry & why gathering multiple generations together to learn, worship, serve, & build relationships is important for the entire church. We will look at being an intergenerational church and discover best practices including how to build on what you are already doing.
Imad Enchassi
Location: Room 116
A fun and interactive workshop that will dispel the misconceptions about Islam.
Rev. Dwayne Rodgers and Rev. Daniel U’Ren
Location: Room 114
In 2018 efforts were started through discussion and prayer that led Western Oaks CC and Wildewood CC to do a pulpit exchange on Reconciliation Sunday as a way to initiate a hands-on approach to reconciliation. We will discuss practical methods of making reconciliation efforts more meaningful.
Rev. Jennifer Steil
Location: Room 115
This class will explore the art of contemplation as restorative justice. We will consider various artful languages within the biblical text, which invite a deepening awareness. We will engage a simple creative practice which awakens inner potential, stillness, insight, renewed vision and peace.
Informal gathering with General Minister and President Rev. Terri Hord Owens. Bring your questions about what’s happening at the General Church!