by Rev. Cheri Metier
Time is a curious concept. The calendar informs me that it has been over two months since the 2025 General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) came to a close in Memphis, TN, however my spirit continues to feel refreshed, my heart is full, and my imagination continues to be fed by the worship and learning I received during those brief five days. Yet, simultaneously, it feels like much too long ago that I was blessed to exchange hundreds of smiles and hugs from my Disciples family and be strengthened by the meaningful ministry that is happening throughout the United States and Canada through the passion and spirit of these faithful servants.
I extended my GA experience by participating in the pre-assembly home build event sponsored by Week of Compassion on Friday prior to the Opening of the GA. I must boast that PSWR was well represented during this additional, all-day labor of love. Together we built over 50 wall panels that have since been delivered to Habitat for Humanity Pennyrile Region in Hopkins County, Kentucky, ready for the next phase of rebuilding and recovery. The panels will become a home for a single mother and her young son, who were displaced by tornadoes in December 2021. I was but 1 of 45 volunteers gathered at The BLVD (Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church) to frame a house for tornado survivors in western Kentucky. Week of Compassion volunteers worked with the capable folks of Help Build Hope. You can watch a time-lapsed video of the entire day by visiting: https://vimeo.com/1103830319?share=copy . I’m the one in denim shorts and a red, sleeveless shirt. Can you find me and other PSWR volunteers?
The words, music, and wisdom shared during the Worship Services buoyed my soul. Rev. Dr. Bernice King charged us to “Activate the Power” as the Church responds to injustice. Her powerful message of exhortation and inspiration provided me with personal and pastoral hope for our Church and our nation. Each and every preacher, musician, and worship leader brought evocative messages of resilient hope and faith.
I was inspired to learn about the new initiative of the Disciples Christian Unity and Interfaith Ministry from Rev. Paul S. Tché, that promotes ecumenical and interfaith collaboration by congregations being able to become a Polar Star Congregation (a guide is available here). As the Chair of PSWR’s Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations Committee (EIRC), I am excited to share this opportunity with PSWR congregations. I had the privilege of speaking personally with Rev. Tché about this and he agreed to meet with EIRC!
There is so much more to share about my time and experiences of attending the 2025 General Assembly and I am deeply grateful for the $500 scholarship granted by PSWR’s Leadership Development Committee that made participating in this possible. Although you’ll need to wait three years, please plan now to attend the 2028 General Assembly. I promise, it is time well invested!