“If we want to have a future as a denomination, we need to take seriously our mission to make Disciples and be a movement for wholeness,” says Rev. Amy Shoemaker, “supporting new churches and leaders by being a safe harbor for them is absolutely essential.” As the Associate Regional Minister of New Church in the Greater … Continue reading Putting love into action: a regional new church perspective
In Memphis there is a place to belong, know God, and put love into action
When Directional Pastor Jamin Carter and Executive Pastor Mandy Grisham walked into Memphis Pizza Café two years ago, they were searching for a denomination that their place of worship, Christ City Church (CCC), could call home. What they didn’t expect to find was a new family that would embrace who they are. Today, the faith community is a … Continue reading In Memphis there is a place to belong, know God, and put love into action
Creating an inclusive community for all who seek Jesus
When Pastor Larry Gipson moved to Seguin, TX with his wife Kelsey for her job two years ago, he felt adrift. There were no places of worship in the neighborhood that were hiring for leadership positions and aligned with his values, primarily that of LGBTQ+ inclusion and having a heart for those who don’t attend … Continue reading Creating an inclusive community for all who seek Jesus
Helping young adults find faith in America’s heartland: The story of The Fringe
“Churches don’t represent youth without a faith background.” As a pastor dedicated to reaching young people, Rev. Dr. Tiffany DeTienne does not mince her words when it comes to serving young adults. “Young people are looking for something familiar,” she explains. “For many of them who do have a background in the church, youth group … Continue reading Helping young adults find faith in America’s heartland: The story of The Fringe
Celebrating API Heritage Month: Honoring Our Stories, Resisting Erasure
Each May, we honor Asian Pacific Islander (API) Heritage Month – a time to recognize the histories, cultures, and contributions of the diverse communities that make up the API diaspora in the United States and Canada. From the early days of immigration, through exclusionary laws and labor exploitation, to today’s vibrant expressions of art, activism, … Continue reading Celebrating API Heritage Month: Honoring Our Stories, Resisting Erasure