The Matthew 25 Gathering is a hybrid of retreat and conference.
The Gathering is for both Anglicans working in justice and mercy contexts, as well as for parishes wanting to “see” through the lens of justice and mercy in their communities.
Our hope is to offer a space for workers and learners to come and unfold, feast in a sharing of ideas and fellowship, and be sent back out with a refreshed sense of purpose and hope in daily work.
What happens at The Gathering?
Every element of this event is geared towards celebrating and cultivating the important work of those who live and serve on the edges of society. In the past, we’ve had anywhere from 60-150 people gathered to learn, worship, pray, celebrate, and lament together. Each year we gather in a different geographical location where shalom- contending work is underway by M25i practitioners.
Below is a snapshot of what will happen at The Gathering:
Subject matter experts offer biblical and socio-historic content that churches must consider
In-depth breakout sessions
White papers and an art reconciliation encounter
Amazing multi-ethnic worship team
A full feast, live music, slam poetry, and dancing
Fall leaves, hiking trails, prayer walks, quiet by the pond
Sharing space with Catholic sisters in a worshipping community
Optional Silent Retreat
Discussions around topics that are difficult but critical
CONTENDING FOR HOPE
Holding limitations while believing the impossible
Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center
1525 Marriottsville Road,
Marriottsville, MD 21104
There is an irrationality to hope. The data wants to predict an end that follows the expected paths of entropy. When all is dark, why would we think light is possible? When brokenness is so severe, seemly total, both personal and systemic, how do we even face such grimness?
Christ-following justice and mercy workers are hope-contenders. We ground ourselves in a vision that is more beautiful than what can be seen. The hope we fight for is gritty, practical, and sometimes hourly. And while we choose it, we also have to cultivate it. Join with others who are grappling with some of the darkest intractables into which we believe light can break through.
2022 Gathering, El Paso, Texas
Previous Gatherings
2020 Gathering, Virtual/Online
2019 Gathering, Washington DC