Cynthia’s Reflection on the Theology Matters Conference

I attended the Theology Matters conference in Hiton Head, SC earlier in October to gather with about 135 of my brothers and sisters in Christ. This was my first time at this conference. I was delighted to be reminded of the connectionism of the PCUSA. I bumped into the pastor who served at my church when I was in college 20 years ago! A nice surprise reunion. I also especially enjoyed one of the presenters at the event since she and I had not seen one anther since we graduated together in 2008 from Princeton Theological Seminary. There were also my colleagues from our TFC Board as well as other friends in Christ I have known over the years in different ministries.

The greatest joy though was making new connections. I was pleasantly surprised how many individuals sought me out and especially came up to me to say “Are you Cynthia from The Fellowship Community? I want to find out more about your ministry.” What a blessing to make these new connections! Pastors and seminarians are seeking to feel more connected to like-hearted brothers and sister in the PCUSA. I am looking forward to following up with these new connections to make sure to incorporate these eager disciples into the ministry of TFC.

Of course there were also lectures, worship, and workshops – it was not simply a social gathering. I enjoyed learning more about worship in the time of Augustine including the invitation for us to stand during a sermon while the preacher sat down. I also was surprised by the discussion in training liturgists for more traditional or high church style worship. There were about a dozen pastors who intently engaged this subject. There is a clear desire to consecrate, or set apart, the act of liturgist as a holy calling. This was a surprising and affirming discussion that really made me think about my approach to equipping those who assist in worship as lay participants.

It is a gift to connect with friends, reconnect with peers, and make new connections too. I hope you will consider attending similar conferences as well as events closer to home too. Our TFC National Gathering is coming up in March, so mark your calendar to join us!

Your sister in Christ,

Rev. Cynthia Betz-Bogoly

Cynthia Betz-Bogoly is the pastor at Elkins Park Presbyterian Church outside of Philadelphia, PA and currently serves on The Fellowship Community Board.