The Future of “First Churches” Foundations, Partnerships and Legacies (Duke Divinity School)

Duke Divinity School’s Office of Wesleyan Engagement is hosting a free two-part interactive lunch time seminar with Bishop Ken Carter and Rev. Dr. Audrey B. Warren entitled “The Future of “First Churches”: Foundations, Partnerships and Legacies.” This event is geared toward clergy and laity serving churches that have historically found themselves at the geographic and spiritual center of their community regardless of whether the church is called “First Church.”  The first session will be held November 8, 2021, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m., and the second session will be held February 22, 2022, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm.

Dr. Warren and Bishop Carter will build upon the work presented in their 2020 book Fresh Expressions of People Over Property and in supplemental materials to dream about the future of “First Churches.” The first session will focus on important ways that “First Churches” have served their communities and the roles that they have played. It will also plant the seeds to imagine ways that these churches can continue to be agents of transformation. The second session will build upon the first session and lay the groundwork for envisioning the future of First Churches.