Empowering Clergy Serving in Cross-Racial and Cross-Cultural Ministries: A Recap of Facing the Future 2023
The Facing the Future 2023 conference, held from November 14-16, 2023, in Atlanta, Georgia, united over 250 clergy members serving in cross-racial, cross-cultural (CRCC), and multi-cultural ministries from across the United States. Themed "Be3: Being, Belonging, and Becoming," this event made a profound impact by fostering an atmosphere of affirmation and equipping clergy with practical tools for their CRCC ministry journeys.
The event's theme resonated deeply with participants, embodying the core values of CRCC ministry. "Be3" served as a guiding principle throughout the conference, emphasizing the significance of embracing one's identity, nurturing a sense of belonging, and continually striving for personal and collective growth.
This hybrid conference drew strength from biblical and theological foundations, providing a meaningful and spiritually enriching experience for all attendees. Workshops, discussions, and worship revolved around these principles, offering participants a robust framework to understand and approach their calling to CRCC ministry.
Facing the Future 2023 featured an array of workshops, delving into essential topics for CRCC ministries, including:
Leading an emotionally intelligent church
Establishing healthy boundaries
Financial health in ministry
Exploring the role of spiritual disciplines
Welcoming and empowering people with disabilities
Partnering with laity
Decentering whiteness in worship
Navigating bias in CRCC contexts
Racial justice and healing in CRCC ministries
These workshops provided clergy members with invaluable insights and practical tools to navigate the distinctive challenges and opportunities inherent in CRCC ministry.
Participants praised the conference for its profound impact on their ministry journeys:
"I was blessed to bring a team of clergy from our conference. EVERYONE of them said that this was a much-needed event. EVERYONE of them. To be connected with pastors who 'look' like us and serve in the same context as us was very beneficial."
"It was as if I was attending a family reunion, where I did not know one person and yet, felt like I belonged!"
"What an incredible experience! I am grateful for the enriching discussions, dynamic worship, and practical workshops. I spent time with old friends and met incredible people, formed lasting connections, and left equipped and inspired for the next steps in my CRCC ministry journey.”
Facing the Future 2023 was not only a conference but a celebration and affirmation of the vital ministries flourishing in our CRCC congregations. With its diverse and passionate participants, empowering theme, and enriching workshops, the event has left a lasting impact on all who attended. As CRCC ministries continue to grow, the future of the church shines brighter, as these inspired faith leaders return to their communities armed with newfound inspiration and knowledge.