The Fierce Urgency of Now

October 31–November 2, 2025 | New York City & Online

*NOTE NEW DATE*

This election season has revealed the plain truth: Our nation is deeply divided on what it means to be human on the planet in relationship to our neighbors. Is this a democracy? And what must people of faith do to build a more just society, no matter who is holding elected office? At this critical crossroads, people of moral courage and fierce love are called to rise to the challenge that just love demands. Together, we must protect the vulnerable, fight for justice, and commit to healing our nation.

Join Middle Church and Freedom Rising this fall for The Fierce Urgency of Now, a transformative conference that brings together preachers and poets; activists, and artists; and leaders with spiritual yearnings across disciplines to confront systemic oppression and envision a path forward.

New Dates. New Home. Same Urgency.

We’ve moved the conference to October 31–November 2, 2025, to ensure we gather in our newly rebuilt, post-fire sanctuary and program space. This space will allow us to fully realize the depth and transformative potential of Freedom Rising.

Taking place one year of the 2024 election season, we’ll reflect on the new political landscape, assess the social and cultural challenges ahead, and prepare to respond with faith, fierce love and action. Together, we will rise and show the world what justice-in-action looks like.

Dr. Martin Luther King , Jr. said,

Host or Publisher Freedom Rising and Middle Church