by Eron Henry | Apr 30, 2024 | News
Lott Carey is pleased to announce the continuation of its mission to empower congregations through the Thriving Congregations Initiative. With a focus on nurturing the capacities of congregations for impactful and faithful witness, this initiative supports faith communities striving to enhance their spiritual vitality.
Thanks to generous funding from Lilly Endowment Inc., the Thriving Congregations Initiative is set to support selected congregations across the United States. This program offers technical assistance, training, and mentoring to help congregations discern their unique context, clarify their purpose, and boost their overall vitality.
While the initiative will work intimately with approximately 60 congregations, the insights and learnings gleaned from this experience will be documented and shared. This dissemination of knowledge aims to inspire and inform the work of thousands of churches and partners within the Lott Carey network.
The upcoming cohort, focusing on the Northeast Region, is scheduled to undergo an 18-month training program starting in the fall of 2024. This comprehensive training will blend in-person sessions with virtual learning, ensuring a robust and flexible educational experience.
Who Should Join?
The Thriving Congregations cohort is ideal for congregations that:
- Seek to deepen their understanding of their community context, identify their strengths, and rejuvenate their ministry.
- Are committed to engaging their pastoral leaders and laypersons in a series of six quarterly in-person training sessions and monthly virtual gatherings.
- Serve primarily within the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania.
Lott Carey pledges to cover all costs related to instructional materials, including books, access to thought leaders, mentors, and meals during in-person sessions. Participating congregations will be responsible for their lodging and transportation expenses.
We invite you to seize this opportunity to enrich your congregation’s journey. For those interested in learning more about the Thriving Congregations Initiative, please reach out to us at thriving@lottcarey.org.
Thank you for considering this transformative experience.
Key Dates for the Northeast Region Cohort:
- September 13-14, 2024
- November 8-9, 2024
- March 14-15, 2025
- May 2-3, 2025
- September 19-20, 2025
- October 17-18, 2025
For more information or to join the cohort, contact Lott Carey at:
- Phone: 301.429.3300
- Email: thriving@lottcarey.org
- Website: www.lottcarey.org
Lott Carey is dedicated to fostering thriving congregations that can recognize and adapt to the evolving social and cultural landscapes. Through this initiative, we aim to equip church leaders with the tools necessary to clarify their mission and cultivate practices that enhance their community’s faithfulness and effectiveness. Join us as we embark on this journey of growth and transformation.
by Eron Henry | Apr 28, 2024 | News
At the Lott Carey annual Spring Missions Conference held on April 18-19, Rev. Dr. Christophe Ringer, associate professor of Theological Ethics and Society at Chicago Theological Seminary, delivered a presentation on the impact of public policy on society. His talk, titled “How Public Policy Impacts People,” was his second presentation at the conference and offered reflections on social problems and challenges.
Dr. Ringer presented a framework for thinking about public policy, focusing on four critical aspects: benefits, fairness, fidelity, and legitimacy. He emphasized that effective policies must not only provide tangible benefits but also uphold fairness, remain faithful to the community’s trust, and maintain legitimacy in the eyes of those they serve.
Reflecting on the recent influx of Venezuelan asylum seekers in Chicago since August 2022, Dr. Ringer discussed the resulting social crisis and its implications for public theology. He highlighted the resistance from the local community, which stems from a history of school closures and unfulfilled promises by city officials. This situation has prompted a reevaluation of the role of place in public theology.
Dr. Ringer shed light on the campaign to end cash bail in Illinois, underscoring the criminalization of poverty and the racial disparities in the jail population. He stressed the importance of public awareness regarding the presumption of innocence and the communal harms inflicted by the inability to afford bail. The story of Lavette Days, an early leader in the movement to end cash bail, was shared to illustrate the campaign’s significance.
The summary of Dr. Ringer’s presentation delved into the role of public theology in tackling societal issues such as the elimination of cash bail, the rise of nationalist movements, and the misconstrued concept of “black on black violence.” He called for the construction of community networks to resolve disputes and highlighted the success of the movement against cash bail, which led to a reduction in jail populations.
Dr. Ringer also emphasized the importance of coalition-building and maintaining trust within movements, particularly in the context of rising nationalist sentiments. He challenged the term “black on black violence,” advocating for a reevaluation of public theology to address stereotypes and assumptions about black communities.
Dr. Ringer underscored the critical role of public theology in shaping public policies and addressing social problems.
by Eron Henry | Apr 26, 2024 | News
During morning devotions at the Lott Carey annual Spring Missions Conference, Minister Brenda Troy of the New Salem Baptist Church in Columbus, Ohio, called for Christians to embody the essence of being the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world.”
Minister Troy emphasized the profound metaphors used by Jesus Christ, urging believers to not only embrace their faith internally but to also express it externally through impactful actions. She highlighted that Christians are entrusted with a dual role – they are recipients of divine light, grace, and mercy, and simultaneously, they are distributors of this celestial illumination.
The world, as Minister Troy noted, is in a state of moral and spiritual decay. It is the responsibility of Christians to act as preservatives, much like salt, slowing down this degradation by actively spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. The metaphor of light further extends this duty, encouraging believers to shine forth in the darkness, guiding others toward the path of righteousness.
Drawing from her personal journey, Minister Troy shared how she has answered the call to be a beacon in her community. Her endeavors in aiding the needy and introducing them to the teachings of Jesus are a testament to her commitment to living her faith out loud, a demonstration of faith in motion.
She reminded conference participants that Christianity is not a passive belief system to be taken for granted. It is a dynamic and living faith that calls for active participation.
by Eron Henry | Apr 25, 2024 | News
At the recently concluded Lott Carey annual Spring Missions Conference, Rev. Dr. Willie D. Francois III, the newly appointed senior pastor of the host church, Fountain Baptist Church in Summit, NJ, addressed the critical role of public theology in safeguarding democracy and championing the cause of Black lives.
Dr. Francois underscored the unprecedented global scale of this year’s elections, with more than 60 countries casting their votes. He posited that the health of democracy is directly reflected in the vitality of public participation. Yet, he expressed deep concern for what he termed “democratic grief,” particularly among younger Black Americans – a profound disengagement stemming from disillusionment with a system that has historically failed them.
The church, according to Dr. Francois, has a pivotal role in mending the wounds of democratic grief. He called for a theological lexicon that identifies systemic injustices as sins, thus framing the struggle for racial justice as a moral imperative. He lamented that only two generations of Black Americans have been born with the unobstructed right to vote, a stark reminder of the persistence of anti-blackness.
He urged the church to transcend doctrinal rigidity and embrace theological imagination, drawing from ancestral wisdom and the interconnectedness of humanity. He emphasized the necessity of fostering hope and practicing “public love” – a proactive love that demands justice and combats oppression.
Echoing the teachings of Jesus, Dr. Francois advocated for a love that is inherently political, one that actively seeks to dismantle systems of domination. He challenged the church to align itself with this radical form of love, thereby redefining discipleship in terms of action rather than mere observance.
In a poignant reference to Melissa V. Harris-Perry’s book, Sister Citizen, he drew a parallel between the participants in a post-war experiment – who struggled to stand upright amidst crooked surroundings – and the contemporary challenge faced by the church to stand for justice in a society marred by systemic inequalities.
Dr. Francois’s message was a clarion call for a countercultural revolution, urging the church to lead in painting a new vision for America – one that is rooted in love, justice, and an unwavering commitment to democracy.
by Eron Henry | Apr 24, 2024 | News
In a recent presentation at the Lott Carey annual Spring Missions Conference, Rev. Dr. Christophe Ringer, an associate professor of Theological Ethics and Society at Chicago Theological Seminary, offered a profound exploration of the value of public theology in addressing societal issues.
Dr. Ringer began by discussing the concept of “social death” and the role of public theology in addressing it. He referenced the biblical story of Lazarus, using it as a metaphor for the role of public theology in unbinding people from social death caused by public policies and practices.
He emphasized that public theology involves critical reflection on society from a religious perspective. This reflection critiques injustices in culture and articulates the sacred aspects of public life necessary for fulfilling and meaningful lives. It also offers resources for a corrective vision where public life is governed by policies that violate democratic virtues and practices.
Dr. Ringer then discussed the current state of Christian nationalism and its impact on society, especially in the United States. He referenced Ta-Nehisi Coates’ work, discussing the concept of freedom and its misuse to justify domination over others, compromising the common good. He argued that this misuse of freedom is not divine but a profound ideology, akin to idolatry.
The speaker suggested that idolatry leads to a false sense of history, which is at the core of the need to prove that unarmed black people shot by the police were the cause of their own death. He argued that the COVID-19 pandemic has unveiled the idolatry of whiteness, which he believes is more accurately captured by the language of ideology than by terms like white privilege or white supremacy.
Dr. Ringer concluded by criticizing federal and local government policies during the pandemic that prioritized corporations over people and politicized mask-wearing and stay-at-home orders. He argued that these policies resulted in sickness and death in their own communities, demonstrating the destructive consequences of pursuing policies that prioritize supremacy and privilege.
The presentation also highlighted instances where individuals and groups are willing to sacrifice the weak, elderly, and homeless for the sake of economic benefits or political ideologies. Dr. Ringer argued that public theology can offer a counter-narrative to these harmful ideologies. Drawing on the teachings of Jesus, Rev. Dr. Prathia Hall’s concept of “freedom faith”, and Martin Luther King Jr.’s views on integration, he suggested that public theology can advocate for a society that values all people regardless of race, gender, or class, and seeks the equality and liberation of all people.
Dr. Ringer echoed Angela Davis’s call to reimagine freedom from the perspective of those who have been denied it, arguing that this vision of freedom calls for full economic, political, and social equality. He suggested that public theology can help society move toward a more just future by encouraging us to question our assumptions and confront our complicity in perpetuating social inequalities. By working toward the beloved community, we can help bring about a more inclusive and equitable society.
by Eron Henry | Apr 23, 2024 | News
At the Lott Carey annual Spring Missions Conference, held on April 18-19 at the Fountain Baptist Church in Summit, NJ, Executive Secretary-Treasurer Rev. Emmett Dunn underscored the mission organization’s steadfast commitment to service and community upliftment.
Rev. Dunn highlighted four pillars that guide Lott Carey’s mission: being intentional, inclusive, incarnational, and impactful. These principles are deeply ingrained in the organization’s actions and initiatives.
Lott Carey’s intentional approach is evident in capacity-building initiatives that empower member churches and global partners. Projects have a tangible impact, from constructing churches to ensuring access to safe drinking water. A notable achievement is support for the education of more than 12,000 students, a testament to the dedication to nurturing future generations.
Inclusivity is a cornerstone of Lott Carey’s philosophy. Rev. Dunn proudly mentioned the relaunch of the annual youth seminar, a platform that fosters young minds. Moreover, the organization has a rich history of recognizing and uplifting women’s roles in preaching, showcasing its commitment to gender equality.
Lott Carey strives to embody the spirit of Jesus in its work. It is an incarnational community that extends resources to heal and support, feeds the hungry, clothes the naked, advocates for the voiceless, builds capacity for underserved communities, and proclaims the gospel. This approach reflects Lott Carey’s deep-rooted belief in serving humanity with compassion and empathy.
The conference was also a platform for sharing stories of Lott Carey’s impactful work. One such narrative involved providing meals to a malnourished child in Liberia, a poignant example of the organization’s life-saving interventions. Furthermore, the shipment of more than 1,000,000 meals in collaboration with Kids Against Hunger to several countries, showcases Lott Carey’s extensive reach and the profound difference it makes in the lives of many.
A touching moment in Rev. Dunn’s presentation was the mention of a personal commitment of $24,000 from Lott Carey’s accountant, who has witnessed firsthand the positive impact of the organization’s work. This generous donation underscores the deep faith and belief in the mission that Lott Carey inspires.
Rev. Dunn concluded his presentation with a personal anecdote about a lighthouse in Monrovia, Liberia, a symbol of guidance and safety. This story served as a metaphor for Lott Carey’s role in the world, guiding those in need toward a brighter future.
by Eron Henry | Apr 22, 2024 | News
Rev. Dr. Gina M. Stewart, the esteemed president of Lott Carey, delivered the sermon at the closing commissioning service of the 2024 Lott Carey Spring Missions Conference at the Fountain Baptist Church in Summit, New Jersey.
Dr. Stewart’s message was clear and profound: public theology is not only relevant but essential. Drawing from the scriptures of Matthew 5:13-15 and John 1:1-5, she painted a vivid picture of faith’s role in the public square. She used the insights of Rev. Dr. Christophe Ringer, who gave two presentations on public theology at the conference, as a backdrop, declaring that all life is sacred, and every act is an act of worship.
The sacred-secular divide, she argued, is a false dichotomy. Theology, in its truest form, spills out of sanctuaries and into the streets, influencing policy, shaping dialogues, and uplifting communities. Other presenters at the missions conference, Minister Brenda Troy and Rev. Dr. Willie Francois III, were heralded for their practical applications of this concept, demonstrating how public love can be a beacon of hope in a world riddled with despair.
For 127 years, Lott Carey has been a testament to this philosophy, actively engaging in the fight against hunger, championing women’s empowerment, advancing education, and providing disaster relief. These initiatives are not mere acts of charity but a divine mandate, a command to disrupt the status quo and sow seeds of justice and equity.
Dr. Stewart’s sermon culminated in a powerful call to action. She urged the gathering to embrace their unique gifts, to be the light in a world shrouded in darkness. The ministry of Jesus, she reminded them, was never meant to be confined to whispers behind closed doors. It is a dynamic force, capable of transforming societies and realigning them with God’s vision for human flourishing.
As the conference ended, the message was clear: despair is not an option. Instead, we are invited to join a lineage of change-makers who understood the public nature of Jesus’ ministry. Together, we can be divine disruptors, aligning our world with the divine intentions of love, justice, and flourishing for all.
by Eron Henry | Apr 20, 2024 | News
At the Lott Carey Spring Missions Conference, Rev. Dr. DeForest B. Soares, Jr. delivered a sermon that resonated with the deep-seated pain and hope in a time when persons and communities are seeking solace and strength. His words, rooted in the biblical passage of Jeremiah 20:7-13, served as a reminder of the enduring power of faith to transform lives and overcome adversity.
The core of Dr. Soares’ message centered on the transformative power of God’s word. He depicted it as a fire, potent enough to consume fear and warm those burdened with weariness. In a world rife with challenges, from the generational pain of the Black community to the trials faced by clergy during the COVID-19 pandemic, he emphasized that God’s word provides the strength and courage to persevere.
Dr. Soares did not shy away from addressing the coldness of our world – a world where resources are abundant, yet basic needs remain unmet, where education is neglected, and women’s rights are curtailed by archaic laws. He spoke of a country that prioritizes foreign aid over domestic needs and churches led by preachers more focused on wealth than on societal issues like gentrification and oppression.
Despite the bleakness of these realities, Dr. Soares offered hope. He presented the word of God as a source of warmth, light, and guidance – an eternal flame that empowers us to help others and spread divine love. It is a beacon that illuminates our path amidst duplicity and lies, reassuring us of our divine heritage and the promise of salvation.
Dr. Soares likened the word of God to a generator during a power outage – not the power itself but a channel for the power of God. It is a word for the weary, a fire in our bones that gives us the strength to fight, work, and show up, even when the world turns cold.
by Eron Henry | Apr 19, 2024 | News
In the first morning worship service at the 2024 Lott Carey Spring Missions Conference, which runs April 18-19, at Fountain Baptist Church in Summit, New Jersey, Rev. Dr. Renita Weems, a venerated author, biblical scholar, and public intellectual, delivered a stirring sermon that delved into the open-ended narrative of the Book of Acts.
Dr. Weems opened her discourse with an exploration of Acts 28, where the Apostle Paul, under house arrest, continues his ministry for two years, unfettered by chains, proclaiming the Kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ. She voiced a sentiment familiar to many believers – the abrupt ending of Acts feels akin to the anti-climax of a film that rolls credits just as the plot thickens, leaving the audience yearning for resolution.
However, Dr. Weems proposed a thought-provoking perspective: what if the Holy Spirit intended for this lack of closure? She suggested that the story of Jesus’ life and ministry is an ongoing saga, with the “29th chapter” still being penned by the hands of those who follow in the footsteps of the early church.
Highlighting the significance of personal narratives in the tapestry of faith, Dr. Weems referenced the emergence of African denominations and congregations such as the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the First African Baptist Church in Savannah, Georgia, the oldest Black Church in North America. These, she argued, are vibrant threads in the “29th chapter,” embodying the continuous work of the Holy Spirit in the world.
Dr. Weems urged the gathering to seize the quill of history and author their own chapters. She challenged listeners to contribute to the chronicles of faith, ensuring that the narrative of Christianity is not solely penned by the “winners” or prevailing powers but is a mosaic of diverse, individual testimonies.
by Eron Henry | Apr 17, 2024 | News
Lott Carey, a global Christian missional community, stands in unwavering solidarity with the people of Haiti during this time of unprecedented crisis. For more than a century, we have been committed to supporting the Haitian people through partnerships and aid, and today, our resolve is stronger than ever.
The current situation in Haiti is dire. Gang violence has escalated, leading to a humanitarian disaster that has left millions in need of urgent assistance. The political turmoil following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse has only intensified the instability. The recent gang war has resulted in thousands of deaths and has displaced more than 362,000 people, creating a state of fear and uncertainty.
Violence has spilled from the capital, Port au Prince, into rural areas, disrupting national supply lines and causing prices to skyrocket. This has exacerbated the hunger crisis, with 4.4 million people facing crisis levels of food insecurity. As the 2024 hurricane season draws near, the country, already grappling with poverty, now faces the threat of tropical systems that could bring heavy rain, flooding, and further damage to weakened structures.
In response to these challenges, Lott Carey pledges to continue our support for the Strategic Union of Baptist Churches in Haiti, the Haiti Baptist Convention, Mission of Grace, and other partners in Haiti. We have provided emergency aid, supported education, and sent volunteers to assist in relief efforts. Our commitment to the Haitian people remains steadfast.
We call upon the international community to join us in prayer and support for Haiti. We urge for an end to the conflict and for peace to be restored. It is our fervent hope that through collective efforts, we can help alleviate the suffering and bring about a brighter future for Haiti.
For those who wish to contribute, donations can be made to support our ongoing mission in Haiti. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by this crisis.
Lott Carey is more than an organization; we are a family united in faith and action. We stand with Haiti.
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“When you open schools, you close so many prisons.” – Linotte Joseph, Mission of Grace, Haiti
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