James’s Reflection on the Theology Matters Conference

What a delight to see so many friends from The Fellowship Community at the 2024 Theology Matters Conference in Hilton Head, South Carolina! Ray, Cynthia, and Jim – all TFC board members – thank you for making the trek! It was wonderful to catch up and hear about ministry in your contexts, and to talk about our common challenges, going forward.

For background, I served on The Fellowship board for seven years, and was a member of the program team, which put together the National Gatherings. Now, I serve on the Theology Matters board, and so have had front row seats in these two, faithful organizations which serve evangelical pastors and churches in the PC(USA).

The theme of the 2024 Theology Matters conference was a serious one: “The Gates of Hell Shall Not Prevail Against It: Standing on Christ’s Promises to the Church” and was chosen against the background of the Olympia overture and its potential ramifications. The conference spent a lot of time exploring and mining the Barmen Declaration, as a potential resource for us, in these times.

Two presentations have lingered in my mind: One, given by the Rev. Dr. John Burgess, of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, who walked us through how the Barmen Declaration became especially – if not more – relevant for the Church under East German control; and Martha Burnett, who presented on the women of Barmen – a fascinating story, long overdue for wider notice.

I am thankful that our two organizations see clearly the challenges our pastors and churches will face in the coming years. I love that we are in touch and will share that work, so that our witness can continue and grow. Keep on keepin’ on and hope to see you soon!

Rev. James F. Cubie

James Cubie is the pastor at Mattituck Presbyterian Church on Long Island, NY and formerly served on The Fellowship Community Board.