Center for Church and City Engagement

The Center for Church and City Engagement, based at the Holmes Road Church of Christ in Memphis, equips students and church leaders to engage urban communities for God’s mission. Launched in August 2024 as part of Harding University, the center continues the university’s legacy in Memphis through Harding School of Theology, focusing on preparing students for urban ministry and partnering with metropolitan churches.

The work of the center stretches in two directions.

First, it provides ministry experiences in urban contexts for Harding students by facilitating internships, apprenticeships and other city experiences.

Second, it offers training and resources for church leaders in urban areas including leadership development, ministry training and networking opportunities. Through these efforts, the center also generates research concerning effective ministry in the city.

Director

Dr. Steve Cloer

Associate Professor of Ministry

Harding School of Theology

The Center for Church and City Engagement will provide:

Training

Experiences

Resources

Accessible ministry training through workshops and webinars on missional, theological or ministry topics for church leaders in urban areas.
Learning cohort experiences that offer discipleship training and leadership development.

Cross-cultural experiences through poverty and urban immersion for undergraduate students.
Apprenticeships and internships for students in partnership with city churches and other ministries.

Leadership development through coaching and consulting for church leaders in team-building, spiritual giftedness and missional vision.
Networking opportunities for ministry leaders who turn their attention toward the city.
Research articles and materials that offer theological guidance and vision for ministry in the city.

Center for Church and City Engagement

The work of the center stretches in two directions.

The Center for Church and City Engagement will provide:

Contact Information

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