Communities of Flourishing: Rewriting the Narrative
About this Event
Changing the Narrative
It doesn't take much effort to name what's broken. Polarization, isolation, poverty, hunger, injustice—the stories of a fractured world are told loudly and often, and they can leave even the most faithful among us anxious, exhausted, and tempted to despair.
But the church has been given a better story. It is not a story about the world's chaos; it is the story of Jesus, who is making all things new. When the church loses sight of that story, we become just one more voice in the noise. When we recover it, we become a people of hope.
This gathering is about changing the narrative. It is designed to help churches, ministries, and everyday Christians move beyond outrage and critique and into hopeful, collaborative, Christ-centered action, reorienting our imagination away from the headlines and toward the Kingdom Jesus announced.
We'll still engage the real issues facing our neighborhoods: caring for immigrants and refugees, the sanctity of life, addressing hunger and food insecurity, confronting racism, sustaining soul-care while serving, stewarding creation, and resisting the pull of consumerism and greed. But we'll approach each one asking not "What's wrong?" but "What does it look like for Jesus to be Lord here?" The day will be theologically rich and deeply rooted in Scripture, focusing on practices that strengthen discipleship and shape a compelling public witness.
Expect to leave with renewed imagination, practical ideas, and new relationships with others committed to seeking the flourishing of our cities and neighborhoods. This is a day for anyone who is tired of the old narrative and ready to embody a better one: the love of Christ made tangible, transformative, and visible in public life.
Featured Speakers
We're honored to welcome Dr. Soong-Chan Rah, Joash Thomas, and Terry and Darlene Wildman to this year's gathering—voices who have spent their lives helping the church see Scripture, justice, and the story of Jesus with fresh eyes.
More speakers will be announced soon. Check back for updates as the full lineup takes shape.
Event Sponsors
J29 Coalition
Surge Network
Agenda
🕑: 08:30 AM - 09:00 AM
Doors Open/Registration
🕑: 09:05 AM
Welcome & Orientation
🕑: 09:15 AM
Session 1
🕑: 10:35 AM
Session 2
🕑: 12:05 PM
Session 3
🕑: 12:55 PM
Lunch
Info: Lunch will be served on site. Seating available indoors and outdoors.
🕑: 01:50 PM
Session 4
🕑: 03:30 PM
Session 5
🕑: 04:45 PM - 05:00 PM
Benediction and Dismiss
🕑: 05:00 PM
Event ends
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 75.00
