We have welcomed the summer with another beloved growing partnered camping program at Loch Leven Retreat and Conference Center. I want to express my deep gratitude to Rev. B.J. Barlow, the Camp Ministry Committee, Rev. Jay Hartley, and the Christian Church in Arizona and all the volunteers that make these wonderful weeks (3) possible. I was glad for the opportunity to visit all the camps and enjoy a meal at each session with our campers.
While these past few weeks have been a busier traveling season than normal. I did find some time for vacation (pictured with King Julien – Madagascar).
Three of our Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the US and Canada General Ministry partners celebrated national assemblies, and the College of Regional Ministers and Moderators met in Bethany College, West Virginia.
We were glad to be in attendance for the Obra Hispana in Kansas City, KS and to celebrate the re-election of Rev. Lori Tapia as National Pastor for the Obra Hispana. Also, we are proud of two of our PSWR bests, these were elected to the Obra Hispana National Board. Congratulations, Rev. Siobhan Lopez and Minister Luis Orozco (pictured)!
We were glad to be in attendance for the Biennial Session of the National Convocation in Greensboro, North Carolina and to celebrate the installation of Rev. Dr. Delesslyn A. Kennebrew as Administrative Secretary of the National Convocation and Associate General Minister. Also, some of PSWR bests are pictured at the event (Rev. Dr. John Tunstall, Rev. Dr. Lisa Tunstall, Rev. Eddie Anderson and Rev. T.J. Coon). Too, the event was surprised and blessed by the Bishop William J. Barber, II (pictured).
We were glad to be in attendance for the North American Pacific / Asian Disciples (NAPAD) Convocation of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Salt Lake City, UT to celebrate the re-election of Rev. Chung Seong Kim as Executive Pastor. Also, we celebrate PSWR bests, Rev. Eula Nicola Pagdilao, member of Filipino Christian Church, Immediate Past Moderator and the completed term (as Moderator) of Mrs. Yunkyong Lee Hill, member of Church of the Foothills and Rev. Dr. Miseon Choi, Secretary / Treasurer, Regional Ministry Staff and FCC – Burbank Ministry Staff Member. Members of your Regional Staff are pictured. I would like to thank Rev. Yvette Hernandez - Becerra, Mr. David Becerra, Ms. Jess Kim, and Mr. Emmanuel Freeman for their extraordinary volunteer efforts to help a caravan of youth and young adults enjoy this assembly. The PSWR shined very brightly in all the National Assemblies celebrated.
Our General Minister and President, Rev. Terri Hord – Owens addressed the College of Regional Ministers with news about the work ahead leading us into the upcoming General Assembly (2025) Memphis, TN and shared four pillars that can carry us in the divisive times we find our world, Listen, Learn, Discern, Decide. A fifth pillar was suggested by a colleague and that was Act. As we prepare to engage the next weeks, and months ahead. I believe these are great pillars to help us move forward. Grateful for our mission, ministry and work, together.
Blessings,
Richie