The State and Regional Council of Churches held its annual retreat in Albuquerque, New Mexico recently under the leadership of the Rev. Jack Sullivan, of the Ohio Council of Churches. The group met to discuss common concerns and issues facing the various faith-based organizations from diverse areas including New York, Wyoming, New Mexico, Kentucky, Ohio, and more.

Bishop Vashti McKenzie, NCC’s Interim President/General Secretary has been working over the past few months to increase greater dialogue and engagement with local council of churches. She has addressed the Virginia and Minnesota councils and has worked closely with the New York Council of Churches in the aftermath of the Tops Market massacre in Buffalo, New York.

“The National Council of Churches has a great interest in solidifying ways to increase engagement with local and regional council of churches to mutually support each other’s mission,” said Bishop McKenzie, at the retreat in a beautiful casita setting. “We share in the common bond of a united Christian witness in a very divisive world. Let’s find new ways to use our collective wisdom and gifts for positive social change.”