National Urban Ministry Conference Focuses on City Ministry Strategies and Community Engagement

The National Urban Ministry Conference, held in North Little Rock, Ark., brought together approximately 130 city ministers, scholars, and students representing 40 churches and ministries from across a dozen states. The 33rd edition of the conference took place at the Levy Church of Christ, marking a continuation of a tradition that traces its roots to a small group of inner city Church of Christ ministers who met in 1990 for mutual encouragement and support. Over the years, the conference has grown into a vital gathering for city-based Christian leaders seeking to engage with urban communities through both spiritual and practical means.

In his keynote address, Steve Cloer, director of the Harding School of Theology’s Center for Church and City Engagement, likened city ministry to the biblical account of Peter walking on water. Cloer emphasized the challenges of ministry in unpredictable urban environments, noting how it is easy to lose focus on Jesus. “Even in our moments of little faith, let’s remember that Jesus is going to be there,” he said, encouraging attendees to remain grounded in their faith amid the complexities of city life.

The 2026 conference featured a preconference workshop, three keynote lectures, and 19 breakout sessions. Organizers highlighted the continued growth in attendance and the quality of programming in the post-pandemic era. Ron Clark, co-director for Agape Community Ministries in Portland, Ore., returned to the conference after several years away, noting its unique value for hands-on ministry workers. “I’m impressed with how the people here are coming to learn how to do ministry more effectively,” he said, underscoring the conference’s role in equipping city ministers with practical tools and strategies.

Aron Clevenger, a children’s minister with the bilingual South Walker Church of Christ in Oklahoma City, attended the conference for the first time. She expressed gratitude for the sense of community and the new ideas and tools the event provided. “I came to Oklahoma City from a very rural setting, so it’s been a cultural shock for me to live there, much less worship there,” she said. “So I’m excited to learn more by being at the conference.” Her experience highlights the conference’s role in supporting new city ministers navigating the challenges of urban ministry.

The conference serves as a platform for city ministers to share experiences, gain insights, and build relationships. Its focus on practical ministry aligns with the broader mission of the Churches of Christ to engage with communities through both spiritual and tangible acts of service. As the conference continues to grow, it remains a key resource for those committed to making a difference in urban settings.

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