Annual Report

The participating churches represent a broad spectrum of sizes, reflecting the diverse tapestry of urban congregations. Their communities were equally varied, ranging from historically underserved neighborhoods to rapidly gentrifying areas. Many of these churches serve as vital anchors in their communities, providing not only spiritual guidance but also essential social services.

The listening sessions revealed a recurring set of challenges faced by urban churches. Many shared a need for more training and equipping of ministry leaders. Another concern is that missional priorities are being devalued which can lead to a disconnect between the church and the community. Challenges and Resources in Urban Communities

Several dreams were shared that churches would love to see happen in their cities. These hopes include greater unity among churches, churches reconnecting with their neighborhoods in incarnational ways, and a spiritual revival to occur. Hearing the dreams of church leaders provided a great opportunity for conversation among like- minded leaders to learn how they could partner together. This encouraging experience caused many leaders to tell us, “We need more gatherings like this!”

The insights gleaned from these listening sessions will be instrumental in shaping CCE’s future initiatives, programs, and partnerships. By understanding the dreams, visions, and challenges of urban church leaders, CCE can better equip and support them in their vital work. The plan is to use the feedback to develop targeted training programs, provide access to relevant resources, and foster a network of collaboration among urban churches. Ultimately, the goal is to empower these churches to thrive and continue God’s mission for his cities.

Holmes Road Church of Christ, which houses CCE’s office, has partnered with HST to convert their church library into a classroom and meeting space for local HST students. The classroom is equipped with the latest technology to facilitate online courses. This setup allows multiple students to engage in their studies simultaneously while enjoying the benefits of face-to-face interactions with their peers. Such an environment fosters a sense of community among students who might otherwise be isolated in their online learning experiences.

Throughout the year, CCE welcomed Harding University students eager to learn about urban church planting. These future leaders took part in immersive experiences that equipped them with the tools and knowledge needed to plant and nurture churches in urban environments. Their enthusiasm and dedication were truly inspiring, and we look forward to seeing the impact they will have on cities across the country.

CCE serves as a vital liaison, connecting students and aspiring church leaders with impactful apprenticeship and internship opportunities within the urban context. These opportunities will enable students to serve alongside established ministries, learn from experienced leaders, and directly address pressing city needs. This will bring a deeper understanding of urban challenges and equip future leaders with the skills and passion to make a lasting difference.

One example of this can be seen through CCE's partnership with Christ Community Health Services (CCHS). Through this collaboration, students learn to integrate faith into healthcare, offering emotional, spiritual, and practical support to patients. This immersive experience provides a deep understanding of the intersection between physical and spiritual well-being, preparing future leaders to address the multifaceted challenges facing urban communities.

In the future, CCE hopes to assist a new generation of church leaders who are not only academically prepared but also practically equipped and deeply committed to serving urban communities. By connecting students with meaningful apprenticeships and internships, CCE is shaping the future of urban ministry and contributing to the flourishing of cities. This year, two HST students participated in the CCHS internship - David Price and Victor Black.

One of the pivotal questions posed in these workshops is, "How is God calling this church to join in God’s mission in this neighborhood in 2025?" This question encourages participants to reflect on their church's vision and align it with God's ongoing mission in their communities. Church members are encouraged to create a missional framework for their ministries, which is at the core of the Center's objectives.

One of the significant evolutions of the NUMC is its broadened scope. The concept of the "inner city" has evolved into a broader idea of "the city," where God calls upon churches to perform urban ministry in their current contexts. This invitation encourages churches to recognize and address the unique challenges and opportunities present in their immediate environments. By doing so, they can foster meaningful connections and contribute positively to their communities.

The continued growth and success of the National Urban Ministry Conference highlight the transformative power of collaboration and shared vision. As we prepare for the upcoming conference, we are excited to witness how churches will rise to meet the challenges of today’s urban landscapes and fulfill their roles as beacons of hope and change.