Genesis Justice Network

🌟 Exciting Workshop Announcement! 🌟

Join us at the 2024 Justice Network Summit for an empowering workshop led by Dr. Marlena Graves, our esteemed Keynote Speaker. Dr. Graves will be sharing insights in her session titled "How Not to Lose Your Soul While Seeking Justice."

Dr. Marlena Graves is a leader and advocate renowned for her work in justice and spirituality. She recently earned her PhD in American Culture Studies, and she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her exploration of how to live a life dedicated to justice without succumbing to burnout.

📚 Workshop Overview:
In "How Not to Lose Your Soul While Seeking Justice," Dr. Graves will delve into the challenges and pitfalls that can arise when pursuing justice zealously. Drawing from her deep understanding of spirituality and justice, she will offer timeless postures and practices rooted in the way of Jesus. Learn how to maintain your health and wholeness while engaging in transformative justice work.

Don't miss out on this invaluable opportunity to learn from Dr. Marlena Graves. Register now for the Justice Network Summit. Let's equip ourselves to pursue justice faithfully and sustainably together!

Register👉https://tinyurl.com/3yxmyhcm

Enjoying some great Jazz with and Rev Michael Peace at New Hope!

🌟 Exciting Speaker Announcement! 🌟

We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Beth Gerhardt, Academic Dean at Northeastern Seminary, to the 2024 Justice Network Summit. Dr. Gerhardt will be presenting on a crucial topic in church dynamics with her session titled "Trauma and the Church: Fragmentation and Healing."

Dr. Beth Gerhardt holds a Th.D. from Boston University School of Theology, along with a Masters of Sacred Theology (STM) and a diverse academic background spanning theology, church history, and social ethics. Her extensive research focuses on applying the theology of the cross to contemporary global justice issues, particularly in addressing violence against women.

📚 Presentation Overview:
Join Dr. Gerhardt as she explores the characteristics of trauma, its profound impact on the church, and strategies for healing. Drawing from her extensive experience working with women who have experienced abuse, Dr. Gerhardt will shed light on how the church, despite its best intentions, can sometimes exacerbate trauma and how it can better support healing and restoration.

Don't miss this enlightening session at the Justice Network Summit! Register now to secure your spot for this transformative presentation and more. Let's learn together how to foster healing and understanding in our communities.

Register👉https://tinyurl.com/3yxmyhcm

Did you know that one of our Keynote speakers this year just put out a new book? The amazing Dr. Korie Little Edward's work in Estranged Pioneers is too good not to read! Want to know what to expect? One of our board members put out a great review that you can read below!

"Estranged Pioneers" Review by Dr. Michael Traylor:

Multicultural and Multi-ethnic churches are significantly harder to lead and present unique challenges to Pastors. Dr. Korie Edwards and Dr. Rebecca Kim study obstacles and opportunities that exist for pastors leading diverse churches. “Estranged Pioneers” gets its title from the idea that Pastors of color who lead multi-ethnic churches and particularly those that are mostly White, are often estranged from their culture of origin and that represents significant risk for burnout and higher levels of stress, and are often pioneers, taking the road less traveled.
“Subsequent research, including our own, repeatedly bears this out. Multiracial congregations are costlier to pursue and less durable and stable than more racially homogeneous congregations. People of color endure most of the costs of participating in multiracial congregations, and pastors of color who head these organizations face additional challenges because of their race. Given the tremendous pull of homophily and the reality of racial segregation in the American religious landscape, it is altogether reasonable to ask why anyone, particularly a person of color, would want to pay the significant costs of leading multiracial congregations.”
— Korie Little Edwards & Rebecca Y. Kim In Estranged Pioneers
Drs. Edwards and Kim pull back the facade of artificial harmony that exists in some multi-racial communities, who hold a difficult peace, but not true harmony:
“On the surface, multiracial churches, simply because they are numerically diverse, may look like successes, but a peek below the surface reveals they are not necessarily spaces that foster equality, justice, or belonging. There is abundant evidence of this problem”
— Korie Little Edwards & Rebecca Y. Kim In Estranged Pioneers
They point out that a true multicultural church is also a church of justice and equity. Reconciliation precedes unity.
“We define a successful racially diverse religious space in the United States as one that is a structurally and culturally equitable, just community of mutuality that has decentered whiteness and white supremacy”
— Korie Little Edwards & Rebecca Y. Kim In Estranged Pioneers
The book is based upon hundreds of interviews of pastors who lead multiple-racial congregations. They find that while pastors of color hold some advantages in being able to bridge multiple cultures, that ultimately White pastors of multi-racial congregations continue to have significant privilege that gives advantage mostly in the form of unquestioned authority and respect. Meanwhile, pastors of Color, particularly Black pastors in diverse spaces were often perceived to be inferior and are far more likely to have their authority questioned.
“Pastors of color of multiracial churches must negotiate a racialized social system that valorizes whiteness and devalues people of color. This is poignantly felt in their relationships with congregants or potential congregants. Their authority is questioned. There are also reports of flat-out rejection and racist microaggressions”
— Korie Little Edwards & Rebecca Y. Kim In Estranged Pioneers
Due to this, Pastors of color attempt to over achieve in order to compensate for perceived inferiority.
“The burden to overachieve derives from a few sources, but it boils down to a simple reality: people of color are perceived as less desirable or less capable leaders compared to whites. Like the Korean missionaries in Spirit Moves West, pastors of color in our study are well aware of the racial landscape, that they are operating within a racial hierarchy that frames white leaders as normative, legitimate, and most desirable. This perception is among not only whites but people of color as well. To compensate for a subordinated racial status, pastors of color of multiracial churches pursue more credentials in the form of special training, greater experience, and more education.”
— Korie Little Edwards & Rebecca Y. Kim In Estranged Pioneers
Others seek to distance themselves from their culture and ethnicity in order to make themselves more appealing and less threatening with the dominant culture. Those with healthier responses found supportive communities within their culture of origin where they could “recharge”.
There is so much information and recommendations in this book. Strongly recommend this for pastors and leaders of churches who are seeking to diversify. Estranged Pioneers does not soft-pedal the obstacles but also makes recommendations for leading diverse congregations.
The book also reveals why so few pastors of color are able to succeed in multi-racial congregations. There are some real steps that diverse congregations can do to optimize the likelihood of success and promotion of congregational solidarity. I feel like what this book affirms is what I have lived and my hope is that other pastors leading in culturally distinct pathways can glean the information presented in order to fulfill their callings.

ATTENTION STUDENTS!

Did you know that you can save a ton of money this year at our Justice Summit? Our Super Early Bird Price is available to you right up until the Summit starts! Your registration of only $75 gets you 4 free meals and a book!

As a bonus, if you're a Robert's Wesleyan student you'll also receive chapel credits for attending the Summit this year! Snag your spot at the Summit before it's too late!

Register👉https://tinyurl.com/3yxmyhcm

We have some incredible workshops planned this year! Visit our website and check out more info on each of these presentations, and if you haven't registered yet, make sure you do too!

Workshops: https://www.justicenetworkfmc.org/summit-workshops

Register: https://tinyurl.com/3yxmyhcm

Today is the last day for Early Bird Pricing! Don't miss out. Register today!

Today is the last day to register for the Justice Summit at the Early Bird price! Make sure you snag your spot at one of the best conferences you can attend in the FMC!

Register now! 👉https://tinyurl.com/3yxmyhcm

We are just 7 days away from the next price increase for the 2024 Justice Network Summit! If you haven't grabbed your spot make sure you do before May 31st and remember that your registration includes 4 free meals and a book along with everything else that makes our Summits amazing!

Register now! 👉https://tinyurl.com/3yxmyhcm

🌟 Exciting Announcement! 🌟

Join us at the 2024 Justice Network Summit for a transformative workshop led by Rev. Dr. Doug Cullum, Rev. Barb Isaman-Bushart, and Rev. Katie Sawade Hall, titled "From Adversarial to Missional: Faithfully Navigating Changing Perspectives on Human Sexuality."

Workshop Overview:
This session will present one FM congregation's thinking concerning the often-confusing broad range of perspectives on human sexuality in today's culture. The session seeks to nurture a culture of faithful discipleship through a posture of genuine hospitality and care.

Rev. Dr. Doug Cullum has been a part of the pastoral team at Community of the Savior since its inception in 2007. With a ministry that blends the practical and academic, Doug focuses on renewing the local church through a fresh recovery of biblical and historical faith. He brings decades of experience in parish ministry and education, serving as Professor of Historical and Pastoral Theology at Northeastern Seminary.

Rev. Barb Isaman-Bushart has served as part of the pastoral team at Community of the Savior since 2011. Her background as a professional social worker, disability rights activist, and educator enriches her ministry, bringing a passion for community and human services to the local church.

Rev. Katie Sawade Hall has served as Associate Pastor at Community of the Savior since July 2019, overseeing communication and faith formation. Her broad ministry focus includes preaching, presiding, and fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.

✨ Join Us! 👉https://tinyurl.com/3yxmyhcm
Don't miss out on this insightful workshop and many others at the Justice Network Summit. Register now at the link for the low price of $90. Hurry, as prices will increase at the end of May! Let's come together to create more just and inclusive communities for all.

🌟 Exciting Announcement! 🌟

Join us at the 2024 Justice Network Summit for an enlightening workshop led by Rev. Dr. Michael Traylor, titled "Developing, Leading and Sustaining Diverse Churches."

Rev. Dr. Michael Traylor is an ordained Elder and Superintendent of the River Conference of the Free Methodist Church. With a diverse background that includes success as a pediatrician, Michael brings a wealth of experience and insight to his ministry. His vision is to proclaim an extravagant hope of the loving, life-giving, liberating movement of Jesus and empower, equip, and inspire disciples, leaders, and churches in Holy Spirit-led collaboration.

🌈 Workshop Overview:
"Analyses of the lifecycle of multi-cultural, socially diverse churches reveal significant fragility due to multiple factors. One of the most significant contributors is a failure of leaders to have critical competencies that promote congregational solidarity. This workshop identifies 4 critical leadership capacities that help to promote solidarity and to develop into an authentically intercultural community. Participants will learn justice-informed capacities that seek to promote movement toward beloved community."

✨ Join Us!
Don't miss out on this transformative workshop and many others at the Justice Network Summit. Register now the low price of $90. 👉https://tinyurl.com/3yxmyhcm

Hurry, as prices will increase at the end of May! Let's come together to create more just and equitable communities for all.

Genesis Justice Network has an amazing team of clergy and laypeople who ensure our conference has ongoing opportunities for education, networking, and growth. If you would like to join our team, fill out this application:

Genesis Justice Network Board Application We are very excited that you are interested in joining our leadership team! Please take a few minutes to review the Mission and Vision and answer some questions so we can get to know you better. The Genesis Justice Network is an affiliate group of the Justice Network of the Free Methodist Church, so...

🌟 Exciting Announcement! 🌟

The moment you've been waiting for is finally here! 🎉 We are thrilled to announce that the schedule for our highly anticipated 2024 Justice Network Summit is now LIVE! Get ready for an unforgettable experience filled with insightful sessions, thought-provoking discussions, and empowering speakers. 🙌

This year's lineup is shaping up to be one of our best yet, with an incredible roster of speakers who are passionate about justice, equity, and community empowerment. From inspiring keynotes to engaging workshops, there's something for everyone at this year's summit.

But wait, there's more! 📣 Please note that the schedule is subject to change, and we'll be adding more information on sessions and speakers in the coming weeks. So stay tuned for updates and additions!

Ready to dive into the full schedule? Click the link below to explore all the sessions and plan your summit experience: www.justicenetworkfmc.org/justice-summit

And don't forget – early bird registration is now open! Secure your spot at the summit for the low price of $90, but hurry – prices will increase at the end of May. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and be part of the movement for justice and change. Register now and join us for an incredible journey towards a more just and equitable world! ✨

🌟 Speaker Announcement! 🌟

We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Rupert A. Hayles, Jr., Ph.D., President of Roberts Wesleyan University and Northeastern Seminary, as one of our distinguished speakers at the upcoming event! 🎉

Dr. Hayles brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table as the Co-founder and Chairman of Organization and People Dynamics, Inc., an esteemed organizational consultancy focusing on emotional and leadership development. With a background spanning over twenty-five years in strategic management and leadership roles in various prestigious organizations, including Cytec, Prudential, and Merck Inc., Dr. Hayles is well-versed in guiding individuals and organizations towards success. 💼

As a former officer in the United States Air Force and a seasoned author, Dr. Hayles has a unique perspective on cross-culturalism, Christian leadership, and emotional intelligence. His insights have been invaluable in shaping the landscape of leadership development and organizational dynamics. 🌍

During our event, Dr. Hayles will be sharing his expertise in a captivating presentation titled "Cross Culturalism, Christian and Emotional Leadership." This promises to be an enlightening session, offering practical strategies and insights for effective leadership in diverse cultural contexts. 📈

Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Dr. Rupert A. Hayles, Jr., Ph.D., and gain valuable insights into leadership development and cross-cultural dynamics. Secure your spot now – register today!

👉https://tinyurl.com/3yxmyhcm

✨

⏰TIME IS TICKING⏰

Register today for the best price available for our 2024 Justice Network Summit! Your registration includes a free book and four meals! Snag your spot now before the price increases on May 31st!

REGISTER HERE👉https://tinyurl.com/3yxmyhcm

🌟 Exciting Announcement! 🌟

Join us at the Justice Summit where we're thrilled to have Kayleigh Clark, founder and director of Restor(y), leading two powerful workshops on the Church and trauma. 🙌

🔹 Workshop 1: "Scattered and Shattered: Answering God’s Call to Care for those Wounded by the Church"
🔹 Workshop 2: "The Body of Christ Keeps the Score: Understanding Congregational Collective Trauma"

Kayleigh brings a wealth of experience and expertise to these sessions. As a pastor and pastor’s kid, she intimately understands the complexities of the church's beauty and pain. Her unrelenting hope in the church as the community through which God seeks to restore the world fuels her ministry and led her to start Restor(y). 💒

Kayleigh's dissertation work focuses on congregational collective trauma and paths towards healing and restoration. Her deep desire is to use her research to bring healing to the church, helping it become the bride of Christ it was created to be, and this is what we will be learning from her workshops this year!

Don't miss out on these transformative workshops! Register now for the Justice Summit and join us as we journey together towards justice and healing. See you there!

👉https://tinyurl.com/3yxmyhcm

Don't miss this great opportunity. Join us on April 20th for our upcoming Justice and Joy Workshop!

Register Here --> https://forms.gle/BoHpmHCJy81Vz9KV8

We are excited to offer a unique opportunity to those who coordinate or lead worship services. Whether you preach, sing, or take part in your services in any other way, we'd love for you to join us at Iglesia Nuevo Dia on Saturday April 20 at 10am-1pm. You will learn theological truths and practical methods to ensure your worship context and content are healthy and just.

Register Here --> https://forms.gle/BoHpmHCJy81Vz9KV8

ATTENTION STUDENTS! Even though our registration price has increased to $90 for everyone else, we want you to know that you can still register today for only $75 for the 2024 Summit.

What are you waiting for? Register today 👉https://fmcusa.formstack.com/forms/jnfmc_2024

We are excited to offer a unique opportunity to those who coordinate or lead worship services. Whether you preach, sing, or take part in your services in any other way, we'd love for you to join us at Iglesia Nuevo Dia on Saturday April 20 at 10am-1pm. You will learn theological truths and practical methods to ensure your worship context and content are healthy and just.

Register Here --> https://forms.gle/BoHpmHCJy81Vz9KV8

🌟 Honoring Superintendent Pam Braman's Inspiring Journey 🌟
Today, we pay tribute to the remarkable life and ministry of Superintendent Dr. Pam Braman, a true visionary and trailblazer within the Free Methodist Church. 🌿
Ordained as an elder in the FMC in 2000, Pam embarked on a transformative journey of service and leadership that has left an indelible mark on our community. From her early days at Christ Community Church outside of Chicago to her roles as lead pastor of Cedarcrest Church and church planter of The Loop in St. Paul, Pam has exemplified unwavering dedication and passion for spreading the love of Christ as an apostolic change agent. 🌟
In 2016, Pam became the first female Superintendent of the Genesis Conference, a testament to her pioneering spirit and visionary leadership. As one of only two women serving as Superintendents in the FMCUSA, Pam has blazed a trail for future generations of female leaders. 💫
Beyond her pastoral work, Pam's impact extends far and wide. As the Executive Director of a non-profit and a Spiritual Director, she has touched the lives of many, offering guidance, support, and hope to those in need. Her unwavering commitment to service and her steadfast faith have made her a beacon of light and inspiration to all who have had the privilege of knowing her. 🕊️
In 2018 Pam graduated with her Doctorate in Ministry from George Fox University and she also serves on the Board of Trustees for Roberts Wesleyan, further exemplifying her dedication to shaping the future of our community and institutions. 📚
Today, we salute Superintendent Dr. Pam Braman for her extraordinary contributions to the Free Methodist Church and beyond. May her legacy of courage, compassion, and faith continue to inspire us all to reach new heights and make a difference in the world around us. 🙏

Today, we're excited to shine a spotlight on the remarkable Rev. Marissa Mattox Heffernan, a passionate advocate for justice and inclusion within the church. 🌍✨
As an ordained Free Methodist Elder, Marissa has dedicated her life to bridging the gap between the church and marginalized communities through justice-centered teaching. Her ministry journey has taken her to various churches in Central New York, where she has served as an associate pastor, leading in the areas of discipleship, worship, and facilitating leadership development.
Currently, Marissa serves as the Co-Lead Pastor of New Hope Free Methodist Church and also holds the position of Co-Chair of the board of the Justice Network and sits on the board for the African Heritage Network. Her commitment to justice and inclusion permeates every aspect of her work.
Marissa's deep passion for worship through music has been a driving force in her life and ministry. For nearly two decades, she has been an integral part of various worship ministries, serving in diverse contexts. She has not only built and led worship teams but has also toured as part of a worship duo. Marissa's expertise extends to teaching inclusive practices of worship leadership.
The unity experienced in worship has inspired Marissa to envision a culture of Christianity where all individuals are equally recognized as image-bearers of God. Through her teaching and preaching on racial equity and gender equality, Marissa has positioned herself as a bridge-builder between the church and marginalized communities.
Today, we celebrate Rev. Marissa Mattox Heffernan, a dedicated advocate for justice, inclusion, and unity within the church. Her life and ministry inspire us all to strive for a more equitable and compassionate world. 🙏🤝

Today is the last day for Super Early Bird pricing. Don't miss out! Sign up now!!

Today is the last day to register for the Justice Network Summit at $75! After today the price will increase so make sure you have saved your spot. We've got some amazing things planned for this year that you do not want to miss!

Register Today 👉https://tinyurl.com/3muf44n4

There are only four days left to register for the Justice Network Summit at the best price it will ever be! You don't want to miss out on this incredible event, and you probably can't even get four meals and a book for $75, let alone an entire conference!

Register Today👉https://tinyurl.com/3muf44n4

Have you registered for this year's Justice Network Summit? Take advantage of Early Bird pricing through March 14th! Register at the link below.

https://fmcusa.formstack.com/forms/justice_network_summit_2024?fbclid=IwAR0u5yDLjAqPkIq5CA_LelKZseHo3OAH--KYQvYlt1AsYfRpBPqqmotBWL8

Do you need a place to stay at our 2024 Summit? Great news! The Rochester Airport Marriott has agreed to hold a block of rooms for us. To make sure you get your room reserved follow this link: https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1708977873805&key=GRP&app=resvlink

🌟 Today, we shine the spotlight on Pastor Debra Davis-Bell! 🌟
With a wealth of pastoral experience and a heart for service, Pastor Debra has left an indelible mark on our Free Methodist church family. As an ordained elder, she has tirelessly served communities in the PNW, bringing light, hope, and compassion to all she encounters.
Currently serving as the Connections Pastor at Rainer Avenue Church, Pastor Debra continues to build bridges and foster meaningful connections within her congregation and beyond. Her dedication to nurturing relationships and fostering a sense of belonging is truly inspiring.
But Pastor Debra's impact extends far beyond the pulpit. She has been a beacon of hope for those experiencing homelessness and addiction, working closely with Seattle's Union Gospel Mission to provide support and assistance to those in need. Additionally, her involvement with the non-profit Northwest Urban Ministries underscores her commitment to serving the marginalized and vulnerable in our communities.
Pastor Debra's leadership extends to the broader denomination as well, having previously served on the Board of Administration for the Free Methodist Church. Her insights, wisdom, and dedication have undoubtedly enriched our collective mission and vision.
Join us in celebrating Pastor Debra Davis-Bell for her unwavering dedication, her compassionate heart, and her tireless efforts to make a difference in the lives of others. Together, let's continue to uplift and support her as she continues to shine the light of Christ in all she does. 🙌

There's still time to join us for our next book study!
Sign up here---> https://forms.gle/hPcu9JjGcQSEhJpj8

Our Spring Book Study begins in just 2 weeks! Sign up today and join us in reading The Color of Compromise by Jemar Tisby
Sign up here---> https://forms.gle/hPcu9JjGcQSEhJpj8

🌟 Today, we highlight Rev. B. Elliott Renfroe 🌟
With deep roots in Free Methodist pulpits across New England and northern Illinois, Rev. Renfroe brings invaluable experience to our denomination. In June 2023, he embarked on a new journey as Greenville University’s Dean of Students and Chief Diversity Officer.
Renfroe’s connection to both the Free Methodist denomination and the University spans over three decades. He has been a pivotal figure within the denomination since joining thirty years ago. Renfroe’s involvement with GU extends beyond his recent appointment, having graced the campus as a speaker at chapel services and serving on the University’s Board of Trustees since 2018.
As Dean of Students, Renfroe prioritizes building genuine relationships with students. His goal is to provide support and encouragement during this critical period of their lives, guiding them through transitions, challenges, and losses.
In his role as Chief Diversity Officer, Renfroe is dedicated to enhancing diversity within GU’s community. Beyond race and ethnicity, he envisions a campus that embraces a broader spectrum of diversity, fostering connections and mutual growth.
Educationally, Renfroe’s journey began at East Stroudsburg University, followed by Alliance Theological Seminary and Northeastern Seminary. He furthered his expertise with certifications in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and Mental Health First Aid from the University of Southern Florida College of Business.
Renfroe’s commitment to service extends beyond the church, evidenced by his volunteer work with organizations such as Teen Challenge Peoria, Peoria Health Department, and The Timothy Project. With over two decades of urban and multicultural ministry experience, Renfroe’s leadership roles in discipleship and outreach have made a lasting impact.
Today, we commend Rev. B. Elliott Renfroe for his unwavering dedication to student welfare, diversity, and community building. His leadership promises to pave the way for a more inclusive and vibrant future at Greenville University and within the Free Methodist Church. 🙌

Today, we celebrate Monica Harrold🌟
Monica's church service spans various roles: Sunday school teacher, worship leader, nursery worker, Bible teacher, administrator, board member, and pulpit supply. She led Trinity Evangelical Divinity School’s Wives Fellowship while her husband, Jeff, attended seminary and served as Secretary/Treasurer for the African Heritage Network. Monica represented the Southern Michigan Annual Conference at GC 2019, was a reserve delegate at GC 2023, and contributed to the Racial Justice Task Team and Justice Action Team. She led an AHN team's workshop on systemic racism and implicit bias for the Free Methodist Global Overseers Team.
A University of Michigan graduate, Monica holds Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Education. She retired from Ann Arbor Public Schools, where she was a teacher, administrator, and Instructional Specialist, earning National Board Certification—a first for an African-American in the district. She's an expert in differentiated instruction and racial equity training, presenting nationally and serving on the Differentiated Instruction cadre of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.
Monica's community involvement includes board membership at the Family Learning Institute and advising Ann Arbor City Council on police review board bylaws. She fosters intergenerational relationships within AHN, embodying wisdom, historical knowledge, and a vision for growth. Monica advocates for AHN members' active participation in Annual Conferences and the Denomination, nurturing a safe community for African descent Elders and lay leaders.
Today, we honor Monica for her steadfast commitment to justice, equity, and community. Her leadership illuminates the path to a brighter future in the Free Methodist Church, inspiring generations to come. 🙌🙏