Submit Workshop Proposals Now for CHHSM’s 2022 Annual Gathering, ‘Forward Together’

The UCC Council for Health and Human Service Ministries is requesting workshop proposals for its 84th Annual Gathering, to be held March 8-10 at the historic Brown Hotel in Louisville, Ky., a landmark since 1923. The theme of the in-person gathering is Forward Together, which will be the emphasis of all events and activities during the meeting, including the workshops.

“The theme Forward Together was intentionally chosen by the Annual Gathering Task Force,” said the Rev. George Graham, vice president of CHHSM. “During the Annual Gathering, we will reflect on the ways that our faith tradition and ministries empower us to move Forward Together in response to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as in addressing systemic racism.”

The deadline for workshop proposals is Nov. 5, and CHHSM will communicate selections by Nov. 30. Submit a proposal.

“We know that our CHHSM members are doing creative, innovative work, particularly as we emerge into the new realities brought to light as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Michael J. Readinger, CHHSM president and CEO. “Our members’ workshops will feature programs and ideas to help make our time together at the Annual Gathering even more dynamic. Only by moving Forward Together — by listening to and sharing our stories and work — can we begin to emerge from not only the pandemic, but from the systemic racism that engulfs so many of our institutions and practices.”

Among the exciting events lined up for the 2022 Annual Gathering is the opening keynote address by noted scholar, author, and speaker Alton B. Pollard III, president and professor of religion and culture at Louisville Presbyterian Seminary. Pollard is the seminary’s 10th president and was recently featured as a commentator on the PBS series about the Black Church.

Additionally, the Annual Gathering’s final worship service and commissioning of the 2022 Nollau Leadership Institute graduates as Diakonal Ministers will take place at the Muhammad Ali Center — a nonprofit museum and cultural center honoring the famed boxer and Louisville resident. There also will be an opportunity to tour the center. As always, the Annual Gathering will include meaningful worship services, affinity group meetings, time for reflection, and time to gather socially.

Because of the success of the 2021 virtual Annual Gathering, a portion of the Annual Gathering plenary sessions will be livestreamed. Registration will open in mid-December. In keeping with CHHSM’s vaccination policy for meetings, all attendees must be vaccinated for COVID-19 or have an approved exemption as well as follow other safety measures.

Submit a workshop proposal.