Unapologetically Black and Unashamedly Christian Conference [Recap]

Imago Dei Church had the privilege of hosting this conference in July of 2020. In the middle of a global pandemic and historic civil rights movement, we saw God bring together people from all walks of life to learn more about His beauty as displayed in and through the Black church.

People traveled from as far away as Bloomington IL to join the conference, as well as folks who just walked across the street. Due to the health restrictions and guidelines of the city, we were given the gift of hosting the all-day conference outdoors. This provided an opportunity to present the gospel and highlight black culture right on the block.

Multiple vendors were given an opportunity to invite people to participate in their ministries that are engaged with serving some of the most vulnerable people in Milwaukee. From engaging in conversations around racism to engaging in conversations with God the Father through prayer, many people had the opportunity to build relationships with people they may not otherwise have crossed paths with.

We were also treated to a fantastic meal by Denson’s Catering. Having a food truck on campus with socially distant dining opportunities scattered throughout the Imago Dei Church property provided us all an opportunity to make new friends and enjoy the good gift of food that our good Father in Heaven provides.

Not only did we feast on physical food, but we also feasted on spiritual food.

• Pastor Tim Allison opened God’s Word to display how Justice is an essential Biblical doctrine.
• Minister Richard Brown unpacked Micah 6:8 to show how doing justice, loving mercy and walking humbly with God – all go hand in hand with sharing the gospel.
• Pastor Pete Ziolkowski pulled the curtain back on how White Supremacy has influenced the church and how repentance from that particular cultural idol could transform our cities for the glory of God.
• Beyond this teaching, Minister JoAnn Harden kept the energy up and instructions clear, serving as the emcee.
• Pastor Michael Harden led us in prayer. And a combination of worship teams from Reconcile Church and Imago Dei Church lead us in worship.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without the countless hours invested by so many faithful volunteers behind the scenes.

All in all, Milwaukee was invited to consider how a robust application of the gospel of Jesus Christ truly is the answer to every issue we face in our day.

And this, by displaying that we can enjoy being (or enjoy others being) unapologetically black and unashamedly Christian.