How First UMC at the Chicago Temple Became Creation-Friendlier
First United Methodist Church in Chicago has been making its building more creation-care friendly by installing more energy-efficient appliances. This has also res…
Posted: August 3 2021 at 11:17 AM
Anti-racism work can be difficult and sometimes lonely work. The NIC Anti-racism Task Force is rolling out a new program for clergy interested in growing in their knowledge, understanding, and work toward anti-racism. The Clergy Peer Reflection & Engagement Series (CPRES) was piloted in the fall of 2020 with much success and some participants continue to meet as an accountability group offering support.
CPRES will kick off with a 3-day/2 night overnight stay at the Loyola Retreat Center in Woodstock, IL on Sun., 9/12, 6 pm – Tues., 9/14, 1 pm, followed by 5 subsequent Zoom sessions available on Tuesdays from 10:30 am – 12 pm or Thursdays from 3-4:30 pm. Key elements of CPRES include soul care, clergy covenant relationships, worship, and engaging in reflective conversations around racism. A book discussion on "The Color of Compromise" by Jemar Tisby, which offers valuable insight on the history of racism within the Church and actions to take to dismantle systemic racism will also be included.
The program cost is $250 per person, which includes single room accommodations, meals, and program materials for the retreat and subsequent sessions. Click here to register. Clergy are encouraged to take advantage of the accountable reimbursement if they have it. Otherwise, there are some funds available through the Board of Ordained Ministry and we can help you with information. We are also excited to be able to offer CEU’s for this program through Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. We also envision this program as a qualifying training opportunity for the clergy training as required by the Annual Conference. Space is limited. CPRES will also be available in 2022.
Questions can be submitted to Rev. Jarrod Severing at jarrod.severing@gmail.com.