21st Century Reformation (Dr. Rodger Nishioka), October, 4, 2014 

Dr. Rodger Nishioka, Columbia Theological Seminary.  "21st Century Transformation: Eight trends that are changing and challenging ministry."

Keynote Presentation (Ray Suarez)

What is the role of the church universal in the world today? Where has it been effective? And where has it failed? The dramatic shift in demographics we saw in the recent election (and how it affected the outcome) is reflected in our mainline denominations. How do we wake up to the reality? And what happens if we do? Or don't?

The Beatitudes (Archbishop Elias Chacour)

Elias Chacour is the Archbishop of Akko, Haifa, Nazareth and All Galilee of the Melkite Greek Catholic Church. Noted for his efforts to promote reconciliation between Arabs and Israelis, he is the author of two books about the experience of Palestinian people living in present-day Israel. He describes himself as a "Palestinian-Arab-Christian-Israeli."

Rob Bell and The New American Christianity  (Jim Wellman)

UW professor Wellman’s latest book uncovers how well known pastor and author Rob Bell transcended the evangelical versus liberal divide. “Much more than a biography, Wellman uses the life of Rob Bell to reveal the inner logic of a growing orthodoxy in American Christianity. Wellman traces the maturing of this charismatic preacher from an earnest young pastor to a nuanced bestselling “heretic”—and in doing so maps the development of a more ambiguous, more open evangelicalism.”

American Podium: Ray Suarez

Below is Ray's presentation at Seattle's Town Hall the day before PresbyFest. This presentation was made possible by Seattle University and the Seattle Channel.

(All workshops are arranged by title, with links to audio, video, and additional documents when available.)

CHURCH GROWTH INITIATIVES [audio] (poor quality recording) [slides]
Rev. Tobin Wilson & Rev. Eliana Maxim, Committee on Catalyzing Missional Communities

Whether you are considering beginning a new ministry, a church plant or just seeking to reinvigorate your congregation, this process of discernment designed by the PC(USA)’s Office of Church Growth and Evangelism will lead you in addressing the key aspects to your church’s ministry and encourage deep listening to God’s call.

IMMIGRATION  MINISTRIES [no recording available by request of presenter]
Julia Thorne, attorney

How is the PCUSA ministering in light of US immigration policies? Special emphasis on ministry in detention centers around the country. How can your church be involved in this mission in serving the stranger, the refugee and the foreigner?

MULTICULTURAL MINISTRIES [audio]
Rev. Jane Pauw, Elder Edgar Rurii

What does it take to form and nurture a healthy cross-cultural ministry partnership? Rev. Pauw is the pastor at Rainier Beach Presbyterian Church where the Kenyan Community International Fellowship meets. Elder Rurii, a member of RBPC who serves in lay leadership for the fellowship, and Rev. Pauw will discuss their experience; successes, challenges and lessons learned.

NFOG DISCUSSION [audio]
Rev. Dean Strong, North Puget Sound Stated Clerk & Rev. Scott Lumsden, Exectuive Presbyter

An exploration of changes in our form of government and the theology of polity (church governance).

PCUSA & IMMIGRATION POLICIES [no recording available by request of presenter]
Julia Thorne, attorney

An overview of US immigration policies and the PCUSA’s position. Julia is based in Louisville, Ky. and serves as Manager of Immigration Issues/Immigration Counsel for the Presbyterian Church USA.

SOUTH EAST ASIAN MINISTRIES [audio]
Dr. Binh Nguyen, & Rev. Paul Kim, Southeast Asia Ministry Team

For almost ten years, the Seattle Presbytery has made a commitment to establish relations and support of Christians in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. Hear about Seattle Presbytery’s ministries in South East Asia from Binh Nguyen, mission coordinator.

THEOLOGY FORUM [audio]
Rev. Bruce Reyes-Chow, Rev. Sarah Koenig, Rev. Jeff Keuss

The discussion continues on how culture and theology inform and shape one another. What does this mean for the future of the church?

THEOLOGY OF REFORMED WORSHIP [audio]
Rev. Dennis Hughes, Seattle Presbytery Stated Clerk

What does it mean to worship as reformed Christians? What are essentials and where do we find freedom and creativity?

Pastors and church leaders wear many hats and have many roles.  In the secular world these might be called “CEO, CFO, publisher, counselor, employer, employee, program manager, real property manager, insurance policyholder” and more.  This program provides a framework for identifying the legal issues that commonly arise in these roles and how to keep your ministry within the law and free from legal distractions.

CLERK TRAINING [audio] (poor quality recording)
Rev. Dennis Hughes, Seattle Presbytery Stated Clerk

Whether you’ve been session clerk for several years or just starting out, this is an opportunity to learn best practices for serving as your session’s clerk.

FINANCE REVIEW [audio] (poor quality recording)
Martha Hubbard & Kris Green  

What are the best ways to keep church financial records? What’s the latest regarding church tax law and Board of Pensions information? Seattle Presbytery accountant (Martha Hubbard) and bookkeeper (Kris Green) will share information. Bring your pending questions!

THE FUTURE OF PCUSA  [audio]
Rev. Scott Lumsden, Executive Presbyter

The denomination finds itself at a major crossroads of both identity and mission. How can the church maintain unity as we continue on this challenging journey? Seattle Presbytery Executive Presbyter Scott Lumsden will explore ideas and encourage discussion.

CHURCH LEADERS AND THE LAW:  How to be “Wise as Serpents” While Staying “Innocent as Doves” [audio] [documents]
David Brenner, Seattle Presbytery Counsel

THEOLOGY AND CULTURE [audio]
Rev. Jeff Keuss

SPU professor of theology Keuss explores the ways our culture intersects our theology. Music, film, television, social networks and rapidly evolving technology have become the language the church must learn to speak. Is it?