CTS Students and Alumni Invited to Upcoming Disciples Gatherings
CTS students and alumni have several opportunities in the coming months to connect with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) through regional and national gatherings focused on worship, learning, fellowship, and community engagement.
As a historic and ongoing partner of the denomination, Christian Theological Seminary encourages students, alumni, and friends to participate in these opportunities for connection and collaboration.
Biennial Session – National Convocation
From June 11-14, the National Convocation will be hosting its Biennial Session in Dallas, Texas. This is a gathering for worship, learning, fellowship, and fun among the ministry of the DOC that supports African American congregations. The focus of the National Convocation is to promote reconciliation and address social issues.
Several CTS staff members will be in attendance to connect with students, alumni, and denominational partners, including Dean Francisco Lozada, Jr., Stephanie Seeger (Alumni Relations), and Dr. DeNeen Collins (Director of Recruiting and Admissions). CTS hosts an alumni reception following Friday evening’s worship service on July 12. Interested alumni can email Stephanie with any questions.
Dr. Collins is attending the gathering to engage prospective students for CTS degree programs and events. She said it is an important event to attend because it allows African American congregations and its members a time to gather and celebrate together.
“The camaraderie and energy of attendees (including many CTS alumni) is a highlight,” Collins said. “Also, being able to socialize with other recruiters is time well spent.” She added that attendance at the National Convocation offers CTS an opportunity to lean into its vision as a supportive DOC community member.
This year’s theme is “Revive. Reset. Resist.” The sessions will focus on training clergy and laity leaders as well as equip and empower congregations to do missions and ministry for our time. More information is available on the National Convocation website.
Virtual General Assembly
On July 10-11, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) will be hosting a virtual General Assembly. Inspired by Ephesians 3:14–21, the theme “BEYOND: Love Surpassing” invites participants to explore new ways of being church rooted in love, connection, and shared ministry
Individuals, Congregations, General Ministries, Regional Ministers, Ministry partners, and friends will gather online to actively take part in these conversations which will explore a new way of being church.
This is the first virtual General Assembly since the decision was made to move the gatherings to every three years with on-line options in the interim years. The hope is that these annual, virtual opportunities will allow more Disciples to connect and work together. The format will include sessions focused on education, discussion, worship, business, fellowship, and action.
Registration is only $30 and the virtual platform will offer closed captioning in five languages. There are churches around the globe that will be hosting sites where individuals are encouraged to gather and take part communally. Details of the event, including registration, are now available here.
Indiana Region – Regional Gathering
Closer to home, the Indiana Region will host its “Building Together in Love” Assembly October 2–3 in Fishers, Indiana. Hoosier Disciples are encouraged to participate in this regional opportunity for worship, fellowship, and collaboration. Registration is now open.
