At the Zephyr Point Justice Conference, church leaders are invited to come together along the shores of Lake Tahoe as we work together to actively seek justice in our communities, in our church, and in our world. Indigenous cultures tell us that we must consider the impacts of our decisions on the next seven generations. We confess that because of our lack of forethought our world carries great scars: colonialism, racism, Covid-19, wealth inequality, systemic poverty and hunger, floods and droughts, fires and mudslides. During this time together as people of faith, we will come together to learn about the injustices that face our world, as well as discover spiritually-grounded and tangible tools to equip us for engagement in our own local communities.
It is our hope for churches to send their pastor and key leaders to begin these important conversations of faith and action. Individuals who serve on church committees dedicated to the work of justice, compassion, mission, and outreach are perfect candidates to join us for the Justice Conference.
If your heart is with justice, come and be inspired to fan the flames of the work that you can envision in your churches, communities, and across the country. As Desmond Tutu once said, “If an elephant is standing on the tail of a mouse, the mouse will not appreciate your neutrality.” Now is not a time for neutrality or moderation, but leaning into what we know is right. Come and be inspired. Come and let’s create change.
Rev. Dr. B. Hunter Farrell (Doctor of anthropology, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú) is the director of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary’s World Mission Initiative (WMI). He worked for over thirty years as a missionary, director of world mission for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), and a professor of mission and intercultural studies.
He has published articles in The Journal of Latin American Theology, Christianity Today, and Missiology and is the co-author, with Balajiedlang Khyllep, of Freeing Congregational Mission: A Practical Vision for Companionship, Cultural Humility & Co-Development (InterVarsity Press, January 2022). Hunter is married to Ruth and they have raised three now-grown children: Ndaya, Will and Andrew.
Rev. Dr. Laura Sue Barnes (Doctor of Ministry, University of Creation Spirituality; MDiv, Pacific School of Religion) is the Senior Pastor at Federated Church of Placerville, a PCUSA and UMC congregation. She is also currently serving on the El Dorado Opportunity Knocks Continuum of Care Board (seeking funds for affordable housing from the State of CA), the Caldor Fire Long Term Recovery Committee (supporting wildfire survivors) and the Graduate Theological Union Board of Trustees (working on diversity and equity in their scholarship programs).
Amanda Anderson (she/her) grew up in Placerville, CA and 
returned there after graduating from CSU Chico. She lives with her husband, Reed, and their three children, Benjamin (5), Owen (3), and Caleb (1). Amanda is the Director for Children and Youth Ministries at El Dorado County Federated Church. She is currently an Inquirer with the North Central California Presbytery and is attending United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities to receive an MDiv in Presbyterian Studies.
Participants who register before March 15th will receive copy of Freeing Congregational Mission: A Practical Vision for Companionship, Cultural Humility, and Co-Development, co-authored by B Hunter Farrell, our event speaker, and Balajiedlang Khyllep.
Book Description:
There is a deepening crisis in mission as practiced by North American congregations. Many mission activities are more effective at satisfying church members than making a lasting difference, producing what’s too often consumer-oriented “selfie mission.” Too much effort is based on colonial-era assumptions of mission launched from a position of power. These practices are not just ineffective―they deviate from mission in the way of Jesus. Hunter Farrell and Bala Khyllep want to help free congregational mission from harmful cultural forces so churches can better partner with God’s work in the world.
The Justice Conference is co-sponsored by Zephyr Point and the North Central California Presbytery. Ministry leaders in NCCP will be eligible for a discounted rate. Recognizing that the work towards justice is a collective effort of diverse voices, theologies, and perspectives, participants of all denominational backgrounds are invited to attend.
| Room Style | Housing Cost | Program Fees + Meals | 2023 Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Style, Double Occupancy | $115 | $160 | $275* |
| Hotel Style, Single Occupancy | $225 | $160 | $385* |
| Non-Participant (Partner/Spouse) - Double Occupancy Room Required | $115 | $85 | $200 |
| Commuter (includes meals) | $0 | $160 | $160 |
To Register click on the “Register Now” button at the top of the page. Be sure to make a note of all dietary needs, mobility issues, and roommate requests during the registration process.
