The following reflection was submitted by UBE member Cynthia Nixon of the Father Sidney B. Parker Chapter.
Another powerful moment came during a Facebook Live at which Dr. Rev. Barbara MacPherson-Brewer preached. She reflected on learning that Bishop Henry McNeal Turner had called for the creation of a Black Theology which would use Scripture to reflect on the Church's history rather than ignore them, and to consider our responsibility to help shape a more faithful future.
I was also encouraged by the many dynamic younger clergy in attendance. Their presence reminded me that while we must honor those who paved the way, we must also nurture and support the generations who will carry the Church forward. This was the over-arching message of those in leadership...how can we nurture younger members in the church and prepare them as future leaders.
Perhaps one of the greatest values of the UBE Conference is the opportunity it provides Black Episcopalians to share experiences, discuss common challenges, learn from one another, and gather ideas and resources that can strengthen our churches and communities. But attending a conference is only the beginning. The real value comes when we return home and put what we have learned into action.
That requires us to spread our wings beyond those we already know. We need to connect with Black Episcopalians from different regions, dioceses, listen to their experiences, learn about successful ministries and programs, and bring back that knowledge with a deeper understanding of what is possible. We can maximize that knowledge however it fits, using it to strengthen our ministries, expand our outreach, deepen our evangelism, and find new ways to share the love of Christ within our church and throughout our community.
I returned from Raleigh inspired, informed, and renewed. My first UBE Conference reminded me that we are part of a much larger community of Black Episcopalians, connected by our faith, our history, and our commitment to the future of the Church.
This was my first UBE Conference, but it certainly will not be my last.
