A portion of the clergy and their mentors committed to strengthening their leadership and creating a community of belonging.

In the Northern Illinois Conference, approximately 50% of the clergy are serving in Cross-Racial/Cross-Cultural (CRCC) appointments. According to the Book of Discipline, CRCC appointments are a creative response to the church’s growing racial, ethnic, cultural, and linguistic diversity. These appointments place clergy in congregations where the majority of the membership differs from the clergyperson’s own racial, ethnic, or cultural background.

On August 8, the Northern Illinois Conference, in partnership with the General Commission on Religion and Race, launched a Cross-Racial/Cross-Cultural Cohort with an opening retreat. Fifteen clergy from across the conference have committed to this nine-month journey, supported by their church leaders who participated in the opening retreat and will be invited to join the cohort for several additional opportunities throughout the year.

In addition to shared learning and reflection, food and fellowship are a part of the experience.

The cohort exists to strengthen the adaptive leadership of CRCC clergy in our Conference by affirming belonging, creating space for theological reflection, deepening cultural awareness, and providing opportunities for healing. Through a trauma-informed and formational learning environment, the cohort invites CRCC clergy to integrate their lived experiences, cultural identities, and theological vocations.

“The CRCC Cohort is a safe space where we can freely express our opinions, share our experiences, and, most importantly, be “familia,” said Rev. Luis Felipe Reyes-Rosario, who has been serving in CRCC appointments for thirty-five years.

A large selection of instruments are available for expression in worship.

Each cohort session introduces foundational concepts, provides structured opportunities for reflection, and equips participants with practical leadership tools that can be applied within their ministry contexts. Participants will also have opportunities to learn from one another and reflect on the unique challenges and gifts of serving across cultural and racial differences. Retired clergy Rev. Myron McCoy and Rev. Darneather Murph-Heath facilitate these conversations, offering wisdom, pastoral support, and a safe space for participants to share their experiences and learn from one another.

"In a polarized world, where racial and immigrant justice are increasingly questioned and challenged, I believe the church is called to be on the front line, helping to guide and show a better way of what it means to live together as God’s beloved children," said Rev. Heewon Kim who has been serving in CRCC appointments for over thirteen years. "I am grateful that we are part of this CRCC cohort, where we can continue discerning, learning, listening, and sharing our call to ministry together."

This cohort is more than a leadership development program. It is an opportunity to create a community of belonging where CRCC clergy can reflect on their call, honor their lived experiences, grow in cultural understanding, and be strengthened for the ministry to which God has called them.