Common Challenges

Discuss current concerns and discover effective solutions for leading diverse people to walk, work, and worship God together as one in a local church for the sake of the Gospel.

Session A - Wednesday, Nov 9 (10:45a)
Leading Diversity Toward Unity • Noe Garcia
In this workshop, Noe will discuss the how and what of effectively building unity through diversity. Come consider what he's learned through both failure and success as the senior pastor of North Phoenix Baptist, a church striving today to express God’s heart for all people and authentically reflect its city.

Session B - Wednesday, Nov 9 (1:30p)
Healing Cross-Cultural Divides • Susie Gamez
To build healthy multiethnic churches we must first engage the work of healing. We will need to identify sources of pain and act intentionally in pursuit of change. Join Susie to consider what's first required for us to heal and what we can then do to help others heal from cross-cultural divisions or pain.

Session C - Thursday, Nov 10 (10:45a)
When Good is Bad • Naeem Fazal
In this session, Naeem will discuss the deceptive lures of ego, esteem, and platform that can lead pastors to build churches in their own image vs. the image of God's kingdom. Come consider the cost of rejecting the affirmation of others in exchange for rewards that come from pursuing the favor of God.

Session D - Thursday, Nov 10 (1:30p)
Getting Comfortable with Discomfort • Steve Ross
Establishing integrated, multiethnic community and rhythms that truly honor equitable structures is a long, slow, uncomfortable process. Join Steve to discuss the challenges and explore ways to overcome obstacles when attempting to lead diverse people deeper into the ways of Jesus by way of sacrifice, surrender, and at times down-right suffering.