Develop a Discipleship System
Bridging Visions 2: Prophetic Voices, Pastoral Hearts
By Derek Weber
Proclaiming the Gospel in Troubled Times
Speaking a word of gospel truth seems to be a risky exercise these days. How do we stay true to our calling to preach the kingdom of God to a divided and even hostile world? How do we care for people across the chasm of our political/social reality?
Join us for Bridging Visions 2: Prophetic Voices, Pastoral Hearts, January 15-17, 2026, at the North Georgia United Methodist Conference Center in Duluth, Georgia. Come prepared for inspirational preaching, thoughtful presentations, opportunities for dialogue, and real-life examples of blending pastoral caring and prophetic vision.
Helpers in our conversation include:
- Keynote Speaker and Preacher: Dr. Jeremy Williams, Assistant Professor of New Testament, Brite Divinity School at Texas Christian University, and Director of the Center for Theology and Justice.
- Presenter: Cole Arthur Riley, author of Black Liturgies.
- Presenter: Dr. Harold Recinos, professor of Church and Society at the Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas, and president of the Oscar Romero Center.
- Preacher: Bishop Karen Oliveto, retired bishop of the United Methodist Church.
- Core to the event is celebrating and honoring the legacy of the Rev. Dr. Joseph Lowery with reflections on his life and witness from Bishop Woodie White and Ambassador Andrew Young.
And more! Workshop leaders and preachers to be announced. Music and worship will be led by Jarvis R. Wilson. We hope to see you there.
Rev. Dr. Derek Weber, Director of Preaching Ministries, served churches in Indiana and Arkansas and the British Methodist Church. His PhD is from University of Edinburgh in preaching and media. He has taught preaching in seminary and conference settings for more than 20 years.
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