Thursday, July 3
Clergywomen’s Breakfast
“Behind the Pulpit: Examining the Lived Experiences of Women Ministers in the Church of the Brethren”
Though women have made inroads into occupations traditionally dominated by men, they represent a significant numerical minority in religious ministry. In 2022, only 19.3 percent of members of clergy nationwide were women while, within the Church of the Brethren, the statistic is higher at 29.27 percent. This may reflect the openness to women in ministry roles which began at the 1922 annual meeting. We will learn from the lived experiences of 21 Brethren clergywomen who participated in a study conducted by Hannah Smith, a 2025 Elizabethtown College graduate with a sociology major and dual minors in religious studies and women and gender studies. Come and celebrate her findings of the Spirit’s stirrings in the clergy sisters among the Brethren!
Brethren Volunteer Service and FaithX Luncheon
“Voices for Service”
Join us for an engaging luncheon as current Brethren Volunteer Service and FaithX volunteers share their unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs while serving communities around the world. Hear firsthand how service transforms lives and creates lasting change.
Church World Service Luncheon
“How You Make a Difference in Partnership with Church World Service”
Come learn the latest updates on Church World Service’s work around the world and on the ground.
Discipleship & Leadership Formation/Anabaptist Disabilities Network Dinner
“Disability, Theology and Ministry”
Dr. Lamar Hardwick, also known as The Autism Pastor, is a pastor, advocate and scholar. His new book, How Ableism Fuels Racism: Dismantling the Hierarchy of Bodies in the Church, helps congregations work towards more effective ministry with people with disabilities.
More information on “Disability, Theology and Ministry” (PDF)
Friday, July 4
Brethren Disaster Ministries and Children’s Disaster Services Volunteer/Supporter Breakfast
This breakfast is open to all current and past BDM & CDS volunteers and supporters, and those interested in learning more about our ministry. This is an opportunity to receive updates on our work; meet or reconnect with others in the BDM family; and hear first-hand accounts from our disaster leaders, volunteers, and partners. Attendees must register with Brethren Disaster Ministries to participate in this free meal. Pre-registration by June 10, 2025, is necessary to reserve a seat. Contact the BDM/CDS offices at 800-451-4407; bdm@brethren.org; or cds@brethren.org. During the conference a limited number of spaces may be available for those who have not pre-registered, although this is not guaranteed. Please make a BDM or CDS staff member aware of your interest.
Outdoor Ministries Association Breakfast
“A Sacred Space for Faith Expressions”
One of the gifts that our camps and outdoor ministries provide for us is the creation and provision of a space that wraps us in love. Because of that embrace, these are spaces that allow and encourage us to explore how we express and live out our faith. Join us as Doug and Sally Ruby share about the sacred spaces they have experienced, observed, and helped to create for others over a lifetime of embracing outdoor ministry opportunities.
Intercultural Ministries Luncheon
“One Hour of Sharing”
Everyone is Welcome! Join us for an hour with great music, food and fellowship as we gather and build deeper relationships.
*The ticket price for this meal is being partially subsidized by Church of the Brethren Intercultural Ministries
Bethany Theological Seminary Lunch
“What Makes the Brethren Relevant Now?”
Join President Jeff Carter and members of the Bethany Theological Seminary for a generative conversation about the importance of Brethren faith, testimonies, and values — now and in the future. The conversation will touch on the ways the unique tradition of the Church of Brethren continues to shape Bethany’s approach to theological education, even as the student body and faculty become more ecumenical.
Womaen’s Caucus Dinner
“Collective Trauma and CoB Culture”
We’re learning how our bodies carry trauma – but how does our church body carry trauma? Learn from this panel about collective trauma in the Church of the Brethren: immigration, conflict, oppression, and more. You are welcome to come for the presentation without buying a meal. We’ll continue the conversation in our Saturday equipping session and hope you can attend both events.
Brethren Revival Fellowship Dinner
“Living in End Times”
How do Christians of our day live in end times in light of Bible prophecy and the final words of Jesus to His disciples regarding His second coming in Acts 1:6-8?
Saturday, July 5
Brethren World Mission Breakfast
“Celebrating 25 Years of Brethren World Mission”
This year’s Brethren World Mission breakfast celebrates 25 years of support for global Church of the Brethren missions. In this quarter century BWM has contributed more than one million dollars to Brethren global mission projects. The program will include messages from global leaders and churches who have received support from BWM.
Brethren World Mission Breakfast flyer
On Earth Peace Breakfast
“Which question are you asking: ‘How does gun violence affect our Beloved Community?’ or ‘How can our Beloved Community affect gun violence?’”
Join On Earth Peace for breakfast to learn about our gun violence prevention initiative. We will present challenges and evidence-based solutions for gun violence prevention as well as discuss what role the unique voice of the Church of the Brethren might play in the larger gun violence prevention movement in the U.S.
Bridgewater College Luncheon
“State of the College”
Join Bridgewater College leadership for an engaging discussion and update on the state of the College.
Elizabethtown College Luncheon
“Behind the Pulpit: The Lived Experiences of Women Ministers in the Church of the Brethren”
All are welcome to this special gathering of food, fellowship, and enrichment! Featuring the honors-level research of Elizabethtown College alumna Hannah Smith ’25, explore the lived stories of women ministers within the Church of the Brethren and learn about their experiences serving in a traditionally male-dominated occupation. Hosted by the College’s Executive Director of Legacy Planning and Engagement Mark Clapper ’96, this event promises to be an insightful and fascinating component of your Annual Conference experience!
Juniata College Luncheon
“Juniata Reflections”
Enjoy the opportunity to visit with others who have a connection to or interest in the College. Together, we will share in fellowship and storytelling about the Juniata experience. All are welcome. We hope you’ll join us!
Manchester University Luncheon
“University Update”
Join the alumni office for good food and fellowship as we connect over our shared love and support of Manchester University. We will share an update on the University strategic initiatives.
McPherson College Luncheon
“The Role of McPherson College in the Future of Liberal Arts Education”
The Natural Sciences serve as a foundational pillar in shaping the educational journey of Health Science majors. These disciplines are instrumental in equipping future health professionals with the critical knowledge and skills necessary for their careers. By integrating rigorous scientific study with practical applications, programs in the Natural Sciences are fostering a diverse array of health professions. This rich variety of programs not only reflects the complex nature of healthcare but also prepares students to meet the evolving demands of the industry and to provide comprehensive care in diverse communities.
*The ticket price for this meal is being partially subsidized by McPherson College office of Alumni
Global Missions Dinner
‘The tree’s leaves are for the healing of the nations.’ (Rev. 22:2, CEB)
This image of the tree of life having leaves for the purpose of healing nations is a powerful metaphor to consider when we think of the global church. Sharon Norton, the new Executive Director, Global Mission, will share her reflections on this passage as it relates to our identity as a church in mission. Other international guests will give greetings from their churches and speak a few words of encouragement.
Part-time Pastor; Full-time Church Dinner
Rooted in Jesus dinner flyer – Arráiguese en Jesús cena folleto
“Rooted in Jesus; Living into God’s calling for your ministry”
The work of pastoral ministry is at best demanding and at times overwhelming; yet it is a special blessing to be called by God into this vocation. Those who are called to part-time or multi-vocational leadership know these truths well. That doesn’t account for spending meaningful time with family or leave much room for caring for your own needs. What if we were to reevaluate the ways we spend our time, especially in relation to ministry. God has called set-apart ministers to use their spiritual gifts for ministry, but God also knows our capacity and does not call us beyond that which we are equipped to handle. Macho and Erica Lara are multi-vocational church planters and pastors of The Table NYC in Sunnyside Queens, New York City. They will inspire those who are gathered to live into their calling, not beyond. Join us for a time of fellowship and affirmation as we explore being rooted in our identity in Christ and the calling God has placed on our lives.