The Southeastern Jurisdiction Black Methodist for Church Renewal 54th Annual Meeting took place in Charlotte, North Carolina on October 25-28th.
The theme: “Knowing Our Psalms, To Fuel Our Passion, To Work Our Plan” Jeremiah 29:11.
During the transition and uncertainty of the UMC due to disaffiliation, the Black church can still boldly proclaim that there still is Hope and a Future!
Where there is hope and Future for the Black Methodist Church you will find Gammon being a prophetic voice. Something dynamic is happening in the church and Gammon Theological Seminary had the incredible opportunity to be a part of this year’s BMCR conference. Attendees left the conference inspired and filled with hope for the future of the Black church.
The conference featured powerful worship sessions that moved hearts and souls and created an atmosphere of spiritual renewal and connection. Through passionate preaching and heartfelt prayers, participants were reminded of the rich heritage and resilience of the Black church, stirring a renewed sense of purpose and devotion.
The conference was not just about worship, it was about putting our faith in action and being affirmed that Our time under God is now! This year’s SEJ BMCR conference also sparked rich dialogue and discussions on important social justice issues that the Black church faces today. Thought-provoking workshops and panel discussions delved into racial equality, economic empowerment, criminal reform, community development, mental health, and maternal health. Participants engaged in meaningful conversations, sharing their experiences, perspectives, and ideas for creating positive change within their churches and communities. The conference infused a renewed sense of mission and commitment to pursuing justice, equality, and compassion, empowering attendees to be catalysts for transformation in their respective congregations.
It was empowering to see various Black Methodist organizations such as The Black College Fund (BCF), Strengthening the Black Church for the 21st Century (SBC21), and Gammon Theological Seminary all come together in a collaborative effort to create and support intergenerational leaders and prophetic problem solvers for the local church and beyond.
As the future of the UMC shifts, there is still hope!
As seasoned leaders transition and pass the baton, we look toward the future with hope. It’s a blessing to see that Gammon has been and still will be cultivating leaders for Gospel work every step of the way.
Rev Kevin “Rev Kev” Kosh Jr., Gammon Alumni
Director and Strategist for the National Network of Young Adults
Do Justice, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly (Micah 6:8)