1001 Inspire Conference: Building and Sustaining New Worshiping Communities
From November 10-12, the 1001 Inspire Conference was held at Stony Point. The conference focused on the importance of developing and sustaining New Worshiping Communities (NWCs), fostering cultural connectivity, and creating opportunities for networking among churches.
Rev. Sam Kim, serving Atlanta Taiwanese Presbyterian Church and Oikos, a Campus Ministry. Oikos provides ministerial direction for international students from South Korea alongside Korean Americans. He introduced the Korean concept of Dure, emphasizing community, mutual support, and shared purpose, which are essential for NWCs.
Rev. Dr. Lindsey Armstrong from Greater Atlanta Presbytery reflected on her lifelong connection with African cultures. She recounted a childhood memory of learning the Zulu word Sawubona ("I see you"), which inspired her to value belonging and dignity in her work with NWCs.
Rev. Gad Mpoyo, from the Democratic Republic of Congo and staff for 1001 Inspire, highlighted the South African concept of Ubuntu ("I am because we are"). This philosophy underscores the importance of interconnectedness and inclusivity in building vibrant worshiping communities.
The conference brought together diverse voices, fostering meaningful dialogue and fresh ideas. Attendees included representatives from several Synod of the Northeast churches, such as La Iglesia del Pueblo (NYC), a recipient of the NWC grant, and Latinx in Action (Cape Cod). Notable participants included Rev. JyungIn “Jenny” Lee, founder of Women Together, Inc., and Rev. Dr. Shannan Vance-Ocampo, Executive Presbyter for the Presbytery of Southern New England.
This experience deepened my understanding of NWCs and the importance of creating spiritually enriching, culturally relevant, and inclusive spaces. Concepts like Dure, Ubuntu, and Sawubona provide a meaningful framework for supporting these communities across our Synod.
—Rev. Dr. Nichol Burris
Administrative Coordinator
