ABHMS’ Latino Ministries to host free virtual conference regarding churches, solidarity economy in times of crisis

VALLEY FORGE, PA (9/2/20)—American Baptist Home Mission Societies’ (ABHMS) Latino Ministries will sponsor the free “Models of Solidarity Economy in Times of COVID-19” (“Modelos de economía solidaria en tiempos de COVID-19”) virtual conference at 1 p.m. Eastern Time on Sept. 19, via the social media platform ministrElife.

Gladys Rodríguez, executive director of Corporación Milagros del Amor (“Miracles of Love Corporation”), an ABHMS Community Outreach Ministries partner in Caguas, Puerto Rico, will share her experiences regarding how to serve church and community in times of crisis and precariousness, such as what is presently being experienced because of COVID-19.

The conference will employ a framework in which the church defines the resources in its possession, rather than looking at its lack of resources. Models of solidarity economy—or sharing resources—will be presented, which churches can replicate. In addition, alternative models for raising funds beyond tithes and offerings will be explored.

 “We recognize that the pastoral body and leadership of Latino churches have been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic,” says the Rev. Salvador Orellana, ABHMS director of Intercultural Ministries. “To support our Latino churches in the United States and Puerto Rico, ABHMS offers this virtual event that will equip our leadership with tools to face this crisis, which affects everybody’s finances.”

While this conference is free of cost, it is necessary to register before Sept. 14. All registrants will receive confirmation, a link to participate in the workshop and a series of free materials.

For more information, contact Abigaíl Medina Betancourt at abigail.medina@abhms.org or 939.231.0120.

American Baptist Home Mission Societies partners with American Baptists to promote Christian faith, cultivate Christ-centered leaders and disciples, and bring healing and transformation to communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.

American Baptist Churches USA is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with approximately 5,000 congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.