Part of the problem, part of the solution

Conversations on a number of topics opened the day on Saturday, July 3 at the 219th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).

Among the conversations was “Equipping the Church for Ministry with God’s Diverse Family” led by the Rev. Teresa Chavez Sauceda and the Rev. Mark Koenig.

The Presbyterian News Service story by Bob Sloan observes:

“We want to give you a taste of working to create, explore and rejoice in the diversity of God’s creation,” said Mark Koenig, coordinator of the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program, who moderated the program.

“Our hope is that this conversation begins this morning and continues when you return home,” he said.

Several individuals shared their stories of transformation and how racism and inequality have affected their lives.

Read more.

Sharing their stories were the Rev. Jerrod Lowry, the Rev. Buddy Monahan, Ann Ferguson and Catrelia Hunter. They spoke of the work to address racism and build community within our God given diversity in congregations, Menaul School, and Presbyterian Women.

Participants had the opportunity to reflect on their experiences and ministries and to recommit to living together as God's diverse family.

Photo by Tony Oltmann.