2020 Conference Session: The 3 R’s of Reparations

Reparations is a topic mired in misunderstanding and controversy. It creates discomfort. For some, an unexpected sense of animosity arises when it is discussed. This workshop is intended to provide an opportunity to talk about the issue of reparations on an intimate level, beyond stereotypical associations, and to dismantle myths often associated with the idea of reparations. Using the model of a three-legged stool, we will break down reparations into three Rs, exploring the importance of restoration, restitution, and reconciliation.

Presented by: The Rev. Canon Christine (Chris) L. McCloud is the Canon for Mission. Prior to her call to the Diocese of Maryland, she was the founder and Executive Director of Turning Point Community Services in Irvington NJ, an agency that provides emergency housing and supportive services to homeless women and children. Chris has spent nearly thirty years working in the not-for-profit sector in the development of special needs housing and job training programs for formerly incarcerated individuals. Coming from the Diocese of Newark, Chris was the Archdeacon for Administration and Formation, deacon-in-charge of Church of the Holy Innocents in W. Orange NJ and a spiritual advisor for the Diocese of NY Episcopal Cursillo program. She is also a veteran of the USAF where she was a Law Enforcement Specialist. Chris was honored as the Tactical Air Command’s Law Enforcement Specialist, 1st Term Airman of the Year in 1984.

2020 Conference Session: Way of Love/Becoming Beloved Community Roundtable

Share your ideas and resources at this round table on integrating the Way of Love and Becoming Beloved Community at camps and conference centers. Facilitator Miriam McKenney will share a process she’s developed using story to engage people with the Way of Love to enter into the challenging work of racial healing and reconciliation.

Presented by: Miriam McKenney finds extreme joy parenting her three girls: Nia, 24; Kaia, 19; and Jaiya, 16. She and her husband, David, met at the Union of Black Episcopalians conference in 1981. Miriam serves as Development Director at Forward Movement and Youth Minister at Calvary Episcopal Church in Cincinnati. She was a children’s librarian and school media specialist for 20 years before joining Forward Movement’s staff. She loves to evangelize about her love of outdoor fitness, even in extreme temperatures — as there is no bad weather, just incorrect clothing choices.

2020 Conference Session: Retirement Readiness Workshop

Church Pension Group (CPG) is committed to helping lay employees prepare for retirement – even when the retirement date could be many years away! In this workshop, led by Larry Dresner, you will learn the concepts, strategies, tools, and resources to help your financial wellbeing. If you’re unsure of the when, how, and what of improving secure your financial future, this workshop can help!

Presented by Larry Dresner: Larry has been a financial planner for over 26 years and is a registered tax return preparer. He is an author, columnist, and speaker. His book is titled Personal Finance for Clergy. His articles have appeared in Financial Planning Magazine, the Journal of Practical Estate Planning, the Electronic Accountant, local newspapers, and web sites. He taught adult education courses and gave seminars at various seminaries in the New York City area. He served as a board member on his congregation's Executive Committee, Board of Trustees, and was the investment manager for their endowment fund. Larry is a member of several financial industry organizations including the Financial Planning Association (FPA) and National Association of Tax Professionals. (NATP).

2020 Conference Session: What Does Faith Formation Look, Sound and Feel Like?

What does faith formation look like, sound like, and feel like at our individual camps and conference centers? What makes it go? What are our challenges, concerns, or fears? Take a deep(er) dive into the nuts and bolts of four components of faith formation (awe/wonder, Christian education, discipleship, and worship) as we explore topics like:

• As an executive or program director, are my spiritual needs met? Am I ready to lead (or to lead those who are leading) faith formation at my camp?

• Are our staff hiring, training, and nurturing practices supporting our faith formation goals?

• What am I most proud of in our formation goals and practices? What could we do differently?

• What are the faith formation resources available to camp and conference centers (individuals, curriculum, organizations, etc.)?

Presented by Beth Bojarski and Lisa Kimball, from research they recently conducted on behalf of Virginia Theological Seminary

2020 Conference Session: Managing the Marathon -- Long Careers in Camp/Retreat Ministries (Panel)

Hear from panelists who are leaders in the ECCC network who have dedicated 15+ years to their work and ministry. Maintaining a healthy work/life balance, dedication, self-care, and professional decision-making are all essentials to a long-term career in camp and retreat ministry. This panel will provide a thorough "how-to" from experienced executive leaders.

Facilitated by: Brad Thompson, Executive Director of St. Columba in Memphis, Tennessee