By Natalie Toombs
The Synod of Living Waters (Mid-South Region of the National Black Presbyterian Caucus) was well represented at the National Black Presbyterian Caucus 48th Biennial Conference at the Southport Marriott Hotel in Charlotte, NC, June 18-21, 2025. It was a joy to see old friends, colleagues, clergy, congregants, educators, staff, youth and youth leaders. The gathering was full of love, deep conversations, old and new stories, fueled by faith and committed to make the church and the denomination better in service for the Lord.
The conference this year boldly proclaimed a timeless truth, “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1st Corinthians 15:58). This rally cry calls us to reflect on the eternal significance of our work in the ministry of Jesus Christ in the area of justice and the community where God has called us to labor. At the conference, we renewed our spirit, strengthened in purpose, and united in vision where we see God calling us for such a time as this from across the nation.
The workshops, round table discussions and sessions were:
1. The Power of Labor in Christ Jesus – A theological discussion on 1st Corinthians 15:58 and the call to faithful service.
2. Faith and Social Justice – Bridging the gospel and the streets.
3. Thinking Outside the Box – There is a new paradigm. “God is doing a new thing.” 4. Building Stronger Communities Through Faith – Equipping churches to be beacons of hope, light, new ministries and hubs of transformation.
5. Leadership for the Future – Nurturing this and the next generation of prophetic leaders, community activists, preachers and visionaries.
6. Youth and Young Adult Engagement – Empowering today’s and tomorrow’s youth and young adults with purpose, passion and possibilities.
We are proud that our very own! The Reverend Gregory Bentley, from Huntsville, AL was elected President and Elder Mack Tuggle, from Memphis, TN was elected Treasurer of the National Black Presbyterian Caucus. Elder Natalie Toombs also sits on the NBPC Board as Representative for the Mid-South Region. The conference closed with an inspiring message from The Reverend Doctor Victor Aloyo, President of Columbia Theological Seminary. We celebrated our past and present. We will strategize for our future and we shall soar wherever God leads us.