LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- Presbyterians from across the country will concentrate their efforts this month on attracting a variety of races and cultures to the denomination. The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)'s fifth Racial Ethnic Convocation is scheduled for July 25-28 in Los Angeles.
The meeting is largely devoted to racial-ethnic and immigrant church growth, according to the Presbyterian News Service. Workshop topics include spiritual growth and discipleship, community outreach and church growth, gospel and culture, leadership development and social justice.
The convocation is expected to attract 800 to 1,200 church pastors, members and representatives of the denomination's five racial-ethnic caucuses. The caucuses represent Native Americans, Asians, Hispanics, African-Americans and those from the Middle East. The gathering is held every three years.
Participants will try to accomplish four objectives, according to the Presbyterian News Service, including:
- To reaffirm and celebrate God's gift of unity and diversity;
- To provide opportunities to deepen spiritual awareness and commitment;
- To learn how to revitalize and create new racial-ethnic and immigrant ministries; and
- To connect generations, cultures, communities and church structures.
