On September 13-14, 2024, the Council of Holistic Christian Churches and Ministries convened its 1st Annual Conference, bringing together faith leaders, spiritual guides, and prominent voices for a transformative weekend. Hosted by the Latino Pastoral Action Center, this conference focused on the pressing need for churches to lead communities from captivity to liberation, calling for action in troubled times.
Bishop Raymond Rivera’s powerful charge to the attendees set the tone for the conference. He urged the faith community to reject secular narratives and embrace the prophetic kingdom narrative. His stirring message reminded all of the timeless words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: "The church must be reminded once again that it is not to be the servant of the state, but the conscience of the state. It must be the critic of the state." With these words as a foundation, Bishop Rivera challenged the gathered leaders to advocate boldly for justice, embodying the church’s mission to be a voice for the marginalized and a catalyst for change.
A Gathering of Prominent Voices
The conference was a rich tapestry of spiritual, emotional, and physical insights, highlighting the need for holistic approaches in ministry. It featured thought-provoking presentations and discussions on social justice, healing, and community empowerment. Esteemed speakers such as Dr. Vincent Bantu, Dr. Robert Chao Romero, and Pricelis Perreaux-Dominguez shared their wisdom, addressing the interconnected needs of individuals and communities. They equipped faith leaders with strategies to integrate holistic approaches into their ministries, advocating for systemic change while fostering both personal and collective well-being.
Equipping Faith Leaders for Systemic Change
The weekend also provided a platform for leaders to discuss pressing issues and explore solutions. Moderators Rev. Jose Montes and Dr. Elizabeth Rios facilitated dynamic panels, guiding conversations toward actionable steps for addressing the spiritual and social challenges facing communities today. Ministry experts including Marc Rivera, Dr. Louis Decarlo Jr., Rev. Wendy Caldron, Rev. Michelle Sweeting-DeCaro, and Rev. Virginia Ortiz offered practical insights, focusing on ways to integrate social justice and healing into their ministries.
Bishop Raymond Rivera, Founder and Convener, underscored the necessity for the church to reclaim its role in leading the charge for justice, emphasizing the importance of community-based ministry. His vision for the Council of Holistic Christian Churches and Ministries is to build a network of faith leaders equipped to challenge systems of oppression and nurture spaces where individuals can experience true liberation.
This inspiring weekend was not only a call to action but also a reminder of the church's foundational mission: to serve as a beacon of hope and a force for liberation in troubled times. As the conference came to a close, participants left with renewed vigor, equipped with tools to confront societal challenges and a deeper understanding of their prophetic role. The message was clear: the church must stand as the conscience of the state, advocating for justice, healing, and empowerment.
The Council of Holistic Christian Churches and Ministries' 1st Annual Conference marked the beginning of a movement that calls for faith leaders to reject complacency and embrace the prophetic kingdom narrative. With Bishop Rivera’s guidance, this gathering of spiritual leaders promises to be a catalyst for systemic change, fostering a network of ministries dedicated to advancing justice and holistic well-being for all.
The journey from captivity to liberation has begun, and the church is leading the way.
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