Monday, July 15
Intensive Seminars (9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
On Monday, plan on attending one of our intensive workshop sessions, offering practical tools and tips in handbells, liturgical dance, and contemporary worship. In addition to these sessions, there will be a rehearsal for those who wish to participate in the “River of Light” Oratorio closing concert as well as an organ crawl around Kansas City.
Contemporary Worship Intensive at Resurrection Downtown — Justin Huey and Matt Bisel
Resurrection Downtown, a setting designed especially for contemporary modern worship, is the laboratory for new music within Church of the Resurrection. Worship leaders Justin Huey and Matt Bisel will guide you through everything from planning worship in a more contemporary style to creating services aimed directly at inner city dwellers. In addition, they will provide examples of new music created especially for the downtown campus by musicians and congregants within the church itself. The use of a band, recruiting a band, using hymns in a modern setting and other contemporary issues will be discussed.
“The River of Light” Choir Experience — Kevin Bogan and Troy Armstrong
Be a part of a new choral work, “The River of Light,” as you join with the Church of the Resurrection Choir and Orchestra to present this 75 minute original oratorio based on the stories found in the Resurrection Window. Troy Armstrong, the composer of “The River of Light,” will join with Kevin Bogan, traditional music director at the Church of the Resurrection, to prepare you to sing in the closing worship event of the Convocation.
Handbell Intensive — Rezound!
Work with Rezound! performance coordinator Lisa Mills along with other instructors from the group to learn techniques and tips to enhance your handbell program. Four topics to be addressed during this intensive seminar include using handbells in worship, handbell techniques – basic and beyond, ringing with less than a full choir, and working with young ringers. [View Additional Details]
Dance Intensive — Sheila Beckford
This dance intensive is designed for dancers of all levels. We will explore refreshing creative concepts that will transform your worship through choreography and other artistic ministries associated with liturgical dance (for example, flagging). We will then add our gifts to complement the other spiritual gifts and elements during our times of worship. It will be a joyous time to experience the Lord through movement.
Organ Crawl
Many may not think of Kansas City as a mecca for pipe organs, but with its close proximity to Quimby Pipe Organs, a fine music conservatory, and a fine church music program in Lawrence, the organ scene is quite robust. Join us on an organ crawl as we experience some of the area’s finest instruments, including the new Richards, Fowkes & Co. organ at Village Presbyterian Church and either the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts Casavant organ or the Community of Christ Temple Casavant (depending on availability).
3:00-5:00 p.m.
Choral Anthem Spectacular!
Later on Monday afternoon, don’t miss the Choral Anthem Spectacular, which will review anthems from a number of major publishers. There will be special guest conductors and door prizes! Complimentary to all convocation registrants.
Tuesday, July 16
Morning Prayer and Bible Study (8:30-9:15 a.m.)
Details to come – Donna Coltrane Battle
Morning Plenary (10:15-11:30 a.m.)
Building a Table of Diversity and Inclusion — Brittney Stephan
Culture shapes our values, actions, and ultimately our worship experiences. In what ways can liturgical leaders create inclusive and diverse, culturally-conscious ways to lead “the work of the people” as the Gospel is preached, read, sung, and prayed? This plenary will explore the work of Dr. Ruth C. Duck, a prolific writer of hymns and liturgical resources, who has contributed to creating inclusive worship experiences across the globe. In her hymn, “Walls Mark Our Boundaries,” it exclaims, “Tables are round making room for one more, welcoming friends we had not known before. So, build us a table and tear down the wall! Christ is our host, there is room for us all!”
1:00-1:45 p.m.
Choral Reading Session
2:00-2:45 p.m.
Blessed Are the Damn-Givers — John Pavlovitz
These are hazardous days for compassionate people trying to emulate Jesus. The world has never been more in need of human beings willing to be wounded on behalf of others, people who will step toward the hurt and endeavor to be agents of healing and justice—but being such people is costly. (This session will be repeated at 3:15 Tuesday.)
Hymns in Modern Style / Beer & Hymns — Trenton Teegarden and Ken Weatherford
This seminar will focus on arranging and leading familiar hymns as integral parts of modern worship planning. Attention will be given to arrangements which work well alongside praise music. In addition, Ken will share the story of Beer & Hymns, which incorporates classic hymns and cover songs into sing-a-long events that raise funds for local charities. Utilizing music, approachable venues, and philanthropy, Beer & Hymns is a unique and powerful tool for fostering community. (This session will be repeated at 3:15 Tuesday.)
Musician and Clergy Collaboration as a Model for Leadership — Jeffery Seeley
There is an increasing concern in the church today about the lack of collaboration and respect between clergy and church musicians. This seminar will offer tools to address these questions: How can we engage in good practices that will move our music ministries forward? What strategies can we use to foster the type of relationships we are called to model for our congregations? (This session will be repeated at 3:15 p.m. Tuesday.)
Putting the Social Back in Social Media — Carla Swank Fox
When it comes to recruitment, retention, and community-building within your ensembles and/or congregation, personal interactions are key. In this session, we’ll take a look at ways that you can use social media and other online platforms to supplement and strengthen your efforts in these areas. We’ll also investigate ways that you can leverage online tools to help increase the visibility of your events in your community. (This session will be repeated at 3:15 Tuesday.)
Worship Design Track: Designing and Leading Multi-Faith Worship — Donna Coltrane Battle
This seminar will explore the steps and processes to be considered for planning and implementing a multi-faith worship experience. Participants will interactively learn about two styles of multi-faith worship and have the opportunity to engage in dialogue as well as question and answer. (This session will be repeated at 3:15 Tuesday.)
Worship Design Track: Planning Authentic Worship in an Excel Spreadsheet Time — Sterling Allen
Whether part- or full-time worship leaders, we are faced with constant distractions. These distractions leave us rushing to fill in the gaps of worship. We use tools like Planning Center, Elvanto, and Excel to plan worship, but I’m afraid we’re missing something vital in our preparations. Come and discover how to plan more authentic worship rooted in the Word during our Excel spreadsheet time. (This session will be repeated at 3:15 Tuesday.)
Creative Hymn Playing: Reimagining the Possibilities – Elisa Bickers
In this seminar, we will explore ways to freshen our hymn-leading through imaginative rhythms, harmonies, and
registrations. Elisa will also share her favorite reharmonization resources. (This session will not be repeated. It will be held at Grace & Holy Trinity Cathedral.)
Handbell Reading Session — Kathy Leonard
Spend an hour checking out pieces chosen from the J.W. Pepper catalog. Please bring your handbell folder/notebook and gloves. Selections will be available for purchase at the J.W. Pepper booth following the session. (This session will not be repeated. It will be held at Grace & Holy Trinity Cathedral.)
3:15-4:00 p.m.
Blessed Are the Damn-Givers — John Pavlovitz
These are hazardous days for compassionate people trying to emulate Jesus. The world has never been more in need of human beings willing to be wounded on behalf of others, people who will step toward the hurt and endeavor to be agents of healing and justice—but being such people is costly. (This session is repeated from 2:00 Tuesday.)
Hymns in Modern Style / Beer & Hymns — Trenton Teegarden and Ken Weatherford
This seminar will focus on arranging and leading familiar hymns as integral parts of modern worship planning. Attention will be given to arrangements which work well alongside praise music. In addition, Ken will share the story of Beer & Hymns, which incorporates classic hymns and cover songs into sing-a-long events that raise funds for local charities. Utilizing music, approachable venues, and philanthropy, Beer & Hymns is a unique and powerful tool for fostering community. (This session is repeated from 2:00 p.m. Tuesday.)
Musician and Clergy Collaboration as a Model for Leadership — Jeffery Seeley
There is an increasing concern in the church today about the lack of collaboration and respect between clergy and church musicians. This seminar will offer tools to address these questions: How can we engage in good practices that will move our music ministries forward? What strategies can we use to foster the type of relationships we are called to model for our congregations? (This session is repeated from 2:00 p.m. Tuesday.)
Putting the Social Back in Social Media — Carla Swank Fox
When it comes to recruitment, retention, and community-building within your ensembles and/or congregation, personal interactions are key. In this session, we’ll take a look at ways that you can use social media and other online platforms to supplement and strengthen your efforts in these areas. We’ll also investigate ways that you can leverage online tools to help increase the visibility of your events in your community. (This session is repeated from 2:00 p.m. Tuesday.)
Worship Design Track: Designing and Leading Multi-Faith Worship — Donna Coltrane Battle
This seminar will explore the steps and processes to be considered for planning and implementing a multi-faith worship experience. Participants will interactively learn about two styles of multi-faith worship and have the opportunity to engage in dialogue as well as question and answer. (This session is repeated from 2:00 p.m. Tuesday.)
Worship Design Track: Planning Authentic Worship in an Excel Spreadsheet Time — Sterling Allen
Whether part- or full-time worship leaders, we are faced with constant distractions. These distractions leave us rushing to fill in the gaps of worship. We use tools like Planning Center, Elvanto, and Excel to plan worship, but I’m afraid we’re missing something vital in our preparations. Come and discover how to plan more authentic worship rooted in the Word during our Excel spreadsheet time. (This session is repeated from 2:00 p.m. Tuesday.)
A Survey of Little-Known Service Music – Elisa Bickers
We will gather at the organ and travel the whole church year to learn about some voluntaries by lesser known
composers, including Fela Sowande, Carson Cooman, Benjamin Cornelius-Bates, Brenda Portman, and many others that are sure to make their way into your hearts and music libraries. (This session will not be repeated. It will be held at Grace & Holy Trinity Cathedral.)
Handbell Reading Session (Oldies but Goodies!) — Kathy Leonard
Handbell standards published in 2005 or earlier that are must-haves for any 3-5 octave choir library. All titles are still in print. Please bring your handbell folder/notebook and gloves. Selections will be available for purchase at the J.W. Pepper booth following the session. (This session will not be repeated. It will be held at Grace & Holy Trinity Cathedral.)
4:30-5:00 p.m.
Choral Reading Session
Wednesday, July 17
Morning Prayer and Bible Study (8:30-9:15 a.m.)
Details to come – Donna Coltrane Battle
Morning Plenary (10:15-11:30 a.m.)
Ministering at the Bigger Table — John Pavlovitz
The Bigger Table is a beautiful idea, but one that can feel elusive when the rubber meets the road of our communities. How can we extend unconditional welcome and acceptance in a Church increasingly marked by bigotry, fear, and exclusion? How can we create spiritual communities that are big enough for everyone? What is the path forward in days that seem to drive faith communities to opposite polls?
1:00-1:45 p.m.
Choral Reading Session
2:00-2:45 p.m.
Creating Space for Mutuality in Mission — Amy Valdez Barker
This workshop will focus in on what it means for people to feel accepted, honored and a valued part of communities in a world where racism, paternalism and sexism seems to be the norm. Coming from a theology of mission that is striving to be grounded in mutuality, Rev. Valdez Barker will explore possibilities with participants about creating spaces in worship that allow each member to recognize their value in the sight of God, the Creator of all. She’ll share experiences of worship in different cultures and communities around the world and will work to draw out community knowledge to enrich and enliven each person’s experience. (This session will be repeated at 3:15 Wednesday.)
From Play to Praise: The Poignant, Powerful Child Voice — Gretchen Harrison
Session attendees will learn engaging ways to encourage participation and development of the child voice. In addition to new techniques, attendees will look at repertoire that builds musicianship and captivate the singer and the audience. A demonstration children’s choir will be part of the experience, schedule permitting. (This session will be repeated at 3:15 Wednesday.)
Hymnal Revision Committee — Bob MacKendree
The hymnal has been a vital tool in carrying the theology of The United Methodist Church for generations. That
function remains important for a new, relevant, and widely used version of The United Methodist Hymnal for primary use in the United States. This new UM Hymnal is under development and you can both see and influence the broad, new vision of this exciting resource. Please come to one of our listening sessions and let your voice be part of the church’s song. (This session will be repeated at 3:15 Wednesday.)
What Is So Sacred about Communion? — Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi
This seminar will explore the sacramental nature of communion, including the historical, theological, psycho-social and practical reasons United Methodists have an open table. It will also explore the ways in which church ministries and worship experiences can either create and support the spirit of an open table or belie and hinder it. (This session will be repeated at 3:15 Wednesday.)
Visuals Nuts and Bolts — Todd Pick
In this seminar Todd will explore his process of planning and execution of the worship visuals for this Convocation 2019: A Place at the Table. A question and answer time will be included. (This session will be repeated at 3:15 Wednesday.)
Vocal Checkup — Amy Rosine
Do you have questions about your current vocal technique? Do you feel that your voice could use a vocal “check up?” Bring a solo to sing and work on vocal technique with Amy Rosine, Voice Professor from Kansas State University with over 25 years experience teaching voice. We can work on classical or Contemporary Christian Selections. (This session will be repeated at 3:15 Wednesday.)
Worship Design Track: Multigenerational Worship Planning — Jacqueline Thompson
Plan worship content and leadership opportunities that foster growth, understanding, and spiritual uplift for different generations — especially those non-biologically linked and the most vulnerable of our population. Be intentional in the “work of the people” so that younger and older generations are included and addressed in all parts of worship. Learn how to make space for those with mobility issues and other physical challenges. Ensure worship elements are differentiated so all experience the presence of the Holy Spirit. (This session will be repeated at 3:15 Wednesday.)
Worship Design Track: Worshipping Beyond Style Labels — John Hollan
Many churches tend to label their worship services according to musical style. Words like contemporary, traditional, or blended seem to rule the day. What if there was a way to live above the worship labels? This session discusses one church’s journey to finding a unique and diverse multi-generational worship voice. This session will included opportunities for dialogue and interaction. (This session will be repeated at 3:15 Wednesday.)
Dance Seminar and Rehearsal — Sheila Beckford
Dancers of all ages, genders, shapes, sizes, and experience levels are welcome to participate in these rehearsals. Modifications can be made to choreography for any physical ability. We will be preparing simple and worshipful moments of movement for the service Wednesday evening and, as time allows, exploring the choreography process so you can implement movement as a part of worship at your home church. (This session will be held at Grace & Holy Trinity Cathedral and will continue through the 3:15 seminar timeslot.)
3:15-4:00 p.m.
Creating Space for Mutuality in Mission — Amy Valdez Barker
This workshop will focus in on what it means for people to feel accepted, honored and a valued part of communities in a world where racism, paternalism and sexism seems to be the norm. Coming from a theology of mission that is striving to be grounded in mutuality, Rev. Valdez Barker will explore possibilities with participants about creating spaces in worship that allow each member to recognize their value in the sight of God, the Creator of all. She’ll share experiences of worship in different cultures and communities around the world and will work to draw out community knowledge to enrich and enliven each person’s experience. (This session is repeated from 2:00 Wednesday.)
From Play to Praise: The Poignant, Powerful Child Voice — Gretchen Harrison
Session attendees will learn engaging ways to encourage participation and development of the child voice. In addition to new techniques, attendees will look at repertoire that builds musicianship and captivate the singer and the audience. A demonstration children’s choir will be part of the experience, schedule permitting. (This session is repeated from 2:00 Wednesday.)
Hymnal Revision Committee — Bob MacKendree
The hymnal has been a vital tool in carrying the theology of The United Methodist Church for generations. That
function remains important for a new, relevant, and widely used version of The United Methodist Hymnal for primary use in the United States. This new UM Hymnal is under development and you can both see and influence the broad, new vision of this exciting resource. Please come to one of our listening sessions and let your voice be part of the church’s song. (This session is repeated from 2:00 Wednesday.)
What Is So Sacred about Communion? — Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi
This seminar will explore the sacramental nature of communion, including the historical, theological, psycho-social and practical reasons United Methodists have an open table. It will also explore the ways in which church ministries and worship experiences can either create and support the spirit of an open table or belie and hinder it. (This session is repeated from 2:00 Wednesday.)
Visuals Nuts and Bolts — Todd Pick
In this seminar Todd will explore his process of planning and execution of the worship visuals for this Convocation 2019: A Place at the Table. A question and answer time will be included. (This session is repeated from 2:00 Wednesday.)
Vocal Checkup — Amy Rosine
Do you have questions about your current vocal technique? Do you feel that your voice could use a vocal “check up?” Bring a solo to sing and work on vocal technique with Amy Rosine, Voice Professor from Kansas State University with over 25 years experience teaching voice. We can work on classical or Contemporary Christian Selections. (This session is repeated from 2:00 Wednesday.)
Worship Design Track: Multigenerational Worship Planning — Jacqueline Thompson
Plan worship content and leadership opportunities that foster growth, understanding, and spiritual uplift for different generations — especially those non-biologically linked and the most vulnerable of our population. Be intentional in the “work of the people” so that younger and older generations are included and addressed in all parts of worship. Learn how to make space for those with mobility issues and other physical challenges. Ensure worship elements are differentiated so all experience the presence of the Holy Spirit. (This session is repeated from 2:00 Wednesday.)
Worship Design Track: Worshipping Beyond Style Labels — John Hollan
Many churches tend to label their worship services according to musical style. Words like contemporary, traditional, or blended seem to rule the day. What if there was a way to live above the worship labels? This session discusses one church’s journey to finding a unique and diverse multi-generational worship voice. This session will included opportunities for dialogue and interaction. (This session is repeated from 2:00 Wednesday.)
Dance Seminar and Rehearsal Continued — Sheila Beckford
Dancers of all ages, genders, shapes, sizes, and experience levels are welcome to participate in these rehearsals. Modifications can be made to choreography for any physical ability. We will be preparing simple and worshipful moments of movement for the service Wednesday evening and, as time allows, exploring the choreography process so you can implement movement as a part of worship at your home church. (This session will be held at Grace & Holy Trinity Cathedral and is a continuation from the 2:00 seminar timeslot.)
4:30-5:00 p.m.
Choral Reading Session
Thursday, July 18
Morning Prayer and Bible Study (8:30-9:15 a.m.)
Details to come – Donna Coltrane Battle
Morning Plenary (10:15-11:30 a.m.)
The Downtown Welcome Table: a sacramental and subversive response to the Soup Kitchen model of ministry — Brian Combs
Eating his way through the Gospels, Jesus constantly shows up at meal times, puts his terrible table manners on full display, and invites, without flinching, all the wrong people to the banquet. Inextricably linking food with faith, he models Christian commensality, showing in his life and life after death that Church can only happen when we eat together.
1:00-1:45 p.m.
Choral Reading Session
Afternoon Plenary (3:00-4:00 p.m.)
Title TBA — Adam Hamilton
4:15-5:30 p.m.
All seminars held at and led by the staff of Church of the Resurrection Leawood
Creating a Culture of Radical Hospitality in Choirs, Orchestras, and Other Arts Groups — Yvonne Gentile
Engaging worship and intentional follow-up processes are important, but what compels guests to return to our churches is the warmth of our welcome and hospitality that goes beyond their expectations. This workshop will share key principles and methods to create a culture of radical hospitality that permeates your entire congregation.
Intro to Video Storytelling for Churches — Greg Hoeven
You know those commercials that somehow, in 30 seconds, make you laugh, cry or both? Ever wonder how they do that? Have you been wanting to start using video in your worship services but don’t know how to get started? If you answered yes to 2 out of 3 of these questions, then this workshop is for you. We’ll watch lots of samples and break down why they work, or don’t work. And touch briefly on just how little gear you need to truly impact your audience. It’s all in the power of story.
Creating an Artistic Culture: Modern and Youth Worship Bands — Cory Ryan
It all starts with a STRONG VISION. Learn how to articulate the vision for your modern worship service and how to create and sell that vision to both leadership and potential artists. We’ll help you create a step-by-step plan and provide resources to get a modern service off the ground or feed your current service. This workshop will cover ideas about how to build your artistic team and how to support and love them, all while building a creative home at your church.
Church Building Tours
Tour the facilities at Church of the Resurrection.
Self-Guided Prayer Walk
Explore the outdoor Prayer Walk and take some time in prayer (weather permitting).
Final Rehearsal for “The River of Light”
Pre-registration in the Monday Intensive required.
A Place at the Table: Convocation 2019 