A Sacred Gathering for Black Leadership, Renewal, and Courageous Ministry
Afro-Zion: Our Future Is Now is a three-day sacred retreat for Black clergy and lay leaders across Ohio who are discerning what faithfulness looks like in this moment.
This gathering creates space for rest, strategy, and renewal—honoring the legacy of Black Methodist leadership while equipping leaders for the future of the church and our communities.
Rooted in scripture, African-centered spiritual practices, and Wesleyan theology, Afro-Zion centers the lived experiences of Black leaders navigating ministry in a time of cultural upheaval, institutional change, and prophetic possibility.
When
- The retreat begins on Wednesday, February 11 at 2:00 p.m. and ends on February 13 at noon.
Where
- The West Ohio Conference UMC Office at 32 Wesley Boulevard in Worthington, OH
What to Expect
- African-centered mindfulness and trauma-informed rest
- Practical tools for bi-vocational and adaptive ministry
- Prophetic preaching, messaging, and digital engagement labs
- Worship, storytelling, music, and communal meals
- Space for honest conversation, healing, and imagination
Who Should Attend
- Black clergy serving in local churches, extension ministries, or chaplaincy
- Lay leaders discerning next steps in ministry or leadership
- Bi-vocational pastors and faith-based entrepreneurs
- Seminarians and emerging leaders
- Justice-oriented practitioners seeking spiritual grounding
Theme Scripture
“They shall rebuild the ancient ruins;
they shall raise up the former devastations.”
— Isaiah 58:12
Registration Cost
The cost for this retreat is $50 per person and includes lunches and program materials. This gathering is generously subsidized by the East and West Ohio Conferences of The UMC as part of our commitment to the care and renewal of Black leaders. If cost is a barrier to participation, please e-mail Will Fenton-Jones, Director of Multicultural Ministries. We want this gathering to be accessible!
Hotels & Lodging
Hotel accommodations are the responsibility of each attendee and there are many options in the Worthington area. A group discount rate of $109 plus tax per night is available at The Sheraton Inn Columbus/Worthington until January 28. Information on how to reserve a discount room will be sent in your confirmation e-mail.
The last day to register is February 9. You will receive the e-mail confirmation AFTER the registration fee has been paid.
CLICK HERE to register.