A Way Forward: Hope in Uncertain Times

A free 3-day community event offering hope, community, and actionable next steps, and a faithful counter-voice in a divided time
About this Event

A Way Forward: Hope in Uncertain Times

A community gathering offering hope, connection, and actionable next steps — a faithful counter-voice in a divided time.
We are living through a time of deep division and uncertainty. A Way Forward is a gathering is for all who long to build communities rooted in hope, compassion, and justice. Through inspiring speakers and practical breakout sessions, you'll rediscover the way of Jesus and leave renewed, equipped, and ready to live with courage, clarity, and purpose. TICKETS ARE FREE BUT SEATS ARE LIMITED.

YOU CAN SELECT WHICH DAYS YOU PLAN TO ATTEND

Schedule

Friday, August 28 | 7:00–9:00 PM Woodmont Hills Church, 3710 Franklin Pike, Nashville, TN. An opening presentation by Dr. Jemar Tisby, moderated by Rev. Dr. Amy Steele, with special music.

Saturday, August 29 | 9:00 AM–2:00 PM Woodmont Hills Church, 3710 Franklin Pike, Nashville, TN

• Morning: Panelist discussion with community leaders Rep. Justin J. Pearson, Rev. Kelli X, and Terry O'Neill, moderated by Dr. Tisby. These local faith leaders and representatives will tap into Nashville's rich history of simple, faithful folk who pursued justice to help point a way forward into God's purposeful and preferred future.
• Midmorning: Breakout sessions led by pastors and local leaders — including Pastor Kevin Riggs, Pastor Ingrid McIntyre, Taure Brown and others — doing the work of social justice, followed by lunch. (Optional boxed lunch available for $15 — add this when you register or feel free to bring your own.)
• After Lunch: A closing conversation between Dr. Jemar Tisby and Shane Claiborne.

Sunday, August 30 | 10:00 AM–12:00 PM Gordon Memorial UMC, 2334 Herman St, Nashville, TN. A special worship service with Dr. Jemar Tisby preaching.

Reserve Your Seat

Seats are filling up and our boxed lunch orders close on August 17 — register today to make sure you're counted in and to guarantee your lunch if you'd like one.

A Way Forward is sponsored by Congregations United for Racial Equity & Justice (CUREJ), Brentwood UMC Race & Faith Team, Belmont University, and TWK United Methodist Church Conference Anti-Racism Coalition
Agenda

🕑: 09:00 AM - 09:30 AM
Saturday, August 29 - Doors open and Check-in
🕑: 09:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Welcome, Reflect and Respond
🕑: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Panel Discussion with Rep. Justin J. Pearson, Rev. Kelli X, and Terri O’Neill
🕑: 11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Breakout Sessions
🕑: 12:15 PM - 01:00 PM
Break for lunch

Info: For lunch, attendees have the option to pre-order a boxed lunch or bring their own. To pre-order a boxed lunch, go to the Eventbrite link and click on "Check Availability," click on Sat. Aug 29, select "Order $15 boxed lunch," then click on "Register." Lunches are payable at check-in on Friday and Saturday.

🕑: 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Conversation of Hope with Dr. Jemar Tisby and Shane Claiborne