By Toya Richards
Alliance members and supporters from near and far will unite under the theme “Earth: Beloved Community” at the 2018 Annual Gathering set for April 26-29 in Dayton, Ohio. Registration is open!
“We are excited about once again coming together as a movement of people, faith communities and ministry partners who are deeply passionate about ecumenism, partnership in mission, relentless hospitality and social justice,” said Sarah Macias, chair of the 2018 Annual Gathering planning committee. “Additionally, we are energized about joining together under a theme designed to empower and equip us to participate as co-creators with God in bringing about earth as beloved community.”
Noted activist theologian Ched Myers (www.chedmyers.org) will be the guiding force behind that theme as the featured speaker at the gathering, taking place at Harmony Creek Church in Dayton, Ohio. Myers’ peace and justice work spans 25 years and includes numerous books and work with various social justice organizations.
Joining Myers in interpreting the theme will be various workshop leaders with expertise in creation justice, and a climate camp on the first day of the gathering will include the scientific, theological and pastoral dimensions of climate change.
Opportunities also will abound at the gathering for fellowship, shared meals, workshops on other areas of interest, Bible study and worship. And as always, space will be made to discuss the business of the Alliance at the annual meeting, which begins April 27.
Check the 2018 Annual Gathering web page, accessible at www.allianceofbaptists.org under Upcoming Events, for the schedule and for other details. Register now, and we look forward to seeing you in April!
— The Alliance of Baptists is a movement of people, faith communities and ministry partners who are deeply passionate about ecumenism, partnership in mission, relentless hospitality and social justice.