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Area Leaders Attend Current Retreat More than 100 young leaders from the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship gathered a few blocks from the Texas state capital last month to discuss issues of social justice. Among them were Central Baptist Theological Seminary students Chris Homiak, Rob Dowell, Patrick Hill, and Chris McRorey. Current, the Fellowship’s network for young leaders, hosted its eighth annual retreat at First Baptist Church, Austin, Texas. The retreat’s theme was "Let Justice Roll," and workshops and worship focused on social justice. "The prevalent social issues, like immigration and poverty, were talked about and this is always working throughout my mind," noted McRorey. "I find myself wanting to work in ministry with the outcasts, the poor, the people overlooked." Attendees had the opportunity to participate in a variety of workshops each day, including Hunger and Advocacy, A Christian Response to Terrorism, Poverty and Economic Justice, Immigration: The Church’s Response and Church/State Perspectives on Social Justice. Discussions were tailored toward the ways churches, ministers and religious leaders can become involved in aspects of social justice in their communities. "The most meaningful part of the event for me were two training workshops," Homiak remembered. "One focused on empathy for ‘the least of these,’ and the other offered a ‘stages of change’ model for use with people who are addicted to substances or destructive behaviors. Both of these breakouts significantly deepened my compassion and understanding for the people to whom I feel called to minister. I have already used one of the trainings in my ministry, and hope to apply the other soon as well." Adam Taylor and Suzii Paynter were the retreat’s keynote speakers. Taylor is a senior director at Sojourners/Call to Renewal, a 34-year old Christian organization that integrates spiritual renewal with social justice. Paynter, a member of the CBF coordinating council, serves as the director of the Texas Baptist Christian Life Commission, an ethics and a public-policy organization affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas. "Suzii Paynter and Adam Taylor brought a depth of experience, understanding, and passion for social justice that was inspiring," said Homiak. |
Giving to CBF of
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