VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 02/05/08) - African American members of American Baptist Churches USA (ABCUSA) make up nearly 48 percent of the denomination's total membership, which makes ABCUSA the most ethnically diverse Protestant denomination in the country. One way that diversity is celebrated is through the annual McKee Consultation, a gathering of ABCUSA's African American executive leadership and special guests. Named in honor of Dr. William T. McKee, the first African American to serve as executive director of an ABC Program Board, the consultation will be held in Miami, FL, Feb. 6-8.
"From its inception," said Rev. A. Roy Medley, ABCUSA general secretary, "this consultation has sought to cultivate the gifts and skills of ABC staff of African heritage. For many, this conference has provided a place of haven and affirmation. For others, it has been a place for networking and mentoring. For all it has been a place to celebrate God's grace poured out upon us and through us for the "new thing" God has been doing in ABC life."
In its 25th year, the consultation's current theme of "Celebrating Roots and Possibilities" will focus on celebrating McKee's life and work, strengthening relationships through unity and togetherness, and a recommitment of service to ABC and the consultation itself. Special guests include Mrs. Rose McKee, widow of the late Dr. McKee, Dr. Bobby Joe Saucer, former representative for The Ministers and Missionaries Benefit Board, and Dr. Laura B. Sinclair, former ABC of Metro NY area minister.
Andrew C. Jayne American Baptist Churches USA Mission Resource Development http://www.abc-usa.org/