Mission Conference towards a Theology of Land

Let us build a house where all are named, their songs and visions heard and loved and treasured, taught and claimed as words within the Word. Built of tears and cries and laughter, praters of faith and songs of grace, let this house proclaim from floor to rafter: all are welcome, all are welcome, all are welcome in this place.

On May 11th, 2024, Anglican Church leaders and members gathered at St. Mark's Paris - Ocean Park for Mission Conference, themed "Towards a Theology of Land."

The Mission Conference, one of the largest biannual gatherings of the diocese of New Westminster, is the key social and learning event held every other year when Synod is not in session. 

Following the 2023 Synod discussions about housing and homelessness, the Mission Conference planners chose as this year's theme: Toward a Theology of Land. It was a pleasure to have Richard Leggett, Mari Joerstad, and Katherine Murray present at the conference, who are local, ordained, and lay leaders with extensive experience teaching and reflecting on a thoughtful, God-centered understanding of land. 

In addition to keynote speeches , the conference also included discussions that allowed attendees to engage in deeper discussions. These sessions offered opportunities for participants to share their perspectives, learn from each other's experiences, and explore practical applications of theological and ecological principles to the land.