Baltimore, Maryland has been selected as the location for Big Tent 2019. The event will be held Aug. 1-3 at adjacent downtown Radisson and Lord Baltimore Hotels. Big Tent organizers contend Gathering in the city where the 224th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) will be held the following year (2020), continues the tradition of introducing Presbyterian to the host city; and, allows participants to explore issues impacting today’s Church through a variety of educational and missional opportunities.
This year's theme is “A Movement Beyond Institution” which is also the theme for the 224
th
General Assembly, with Romans 12:2 as scripture reference: “Do not be conformed to this world," but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
The theme was chosen by
The Rev. J. Herbert Nelson II, Stated Clerk of the General Assembly. He remarked that "as we grapple with the emerging church of the 21st century,
i
t is imperative that we come together to listen, learn and envision the future. God, through Jesus Christ, is providing us an opportunity at Big Tent to go deep in our theology and faith while renewing our spirits.”
Since its inception in 2009, Big Tent has been a big Presbyterian family reunion, some say. It is the assembly between General Assemblies that brings us together to celebrate our church as the Body of Christ and engage in deeper conversations about how we can be the community we are called to be in this age; to live out the Gospel of Jesus Christ as children of God whoever we are, wherever we are.
Big tent organizers contend that Baltimore’s Inner Harbor offers a variety of local attractions as well as the most affordable and comfortable accommodations for individuals and families who want to attend the event. An early – although, incomplete -- list of 2019 Big Tent events includes conferences on church leadership connection, National Asian ministry and Middle Eastern Pastor’s leadership Development; as well as, meeting on intercultural issues; mid-council leadership and young adult networking. Registration for the 2019 Big Tent is only $95, which excludes fees for accommodations, entertainment and food.
Additional event details will be published as they become available
.
