We’re grateful to everyone who was part of Karam Forum 2022. We don’t mind telling you, running this conference is a real juggling act! (More on that below.) But all the real work gets done by the presenters, and this year we were richly blessed by a lineup of leaders who volunteered to be part of the Forum. And of course it was great to reconnect with old friends and sustain our community.
Thank you!
And, of course, mark your calendars for Karam Forum 2023! We’ll convene in San Antonio on Nov. 16-17. Our keynote speakers will be Paul Williams, head of the UK Bible Society and a longtime contributor to our community, and Gregg Okesson of Asbury Theological Seminary.
Our theme will be The Missio Dei in the Everyday (aka “The Missio Everyday!”).
In the meantime, enjoy the memories below, and watch future newsletters for releases of the video from our Karam Forum 2022 sessions. Until next time!
Some amazing art from our amazing hosts at Park Church in Denver. The inverted crown you see here is a motif throughout the church building, expressing the “upsdie-down kingdom” of Christ.
Expect the unexpected when you rely on the Spirit to “thrive in a changing world”!
Times of fellowship have always been a key part of Karam Forum. But this was the first meeting at which you could also take a moment to do what Klaus Issler did: Open up your brand new copy of F&F and check out the article you published!
We always make space on the Karam Forum stage for those leading in local ministry in the space where we’re meeting, because “space” matters. But this is the first time our local ministries segment was all about why space matters! Jeff Hoffmeyer of the Denver Institute for Faith and Work facilitated a conversation with Tim Barr and Kelly Leadbetter, who work in design and urban planning.
Folks, we’ve been taking photos of Charlie Self for over a decade, and they all look like this. All of them! We’re almost prepared to issue a cash reward for anyone who can produce photographic evidence of Charlie not experiencing the joy of the Holy Spirit.
Amos Yong practices what he preaches – relying on the Spirit to overcome obstacles (in this case, an arm in a sling) to practice theological education.
Amos’ rich discussion was a jumping-off point for conversation with some familiar members of the ON/Karam Forum family.
Philip Thompson reminds us that theological education must itself be cruciform. Sobering but ultimately comforting words for the difficult work ahead.
Lisa Slayton’s cross to bear is that she has once again been persuaded to speak at Karam Forum on the crisis of discipleship in our churches.
Fernando Tamara shares moving testimony on how openness to the Spirit means allowing things to get uncomfortably real in our classrooms.
We were especially blessed by Kara Martin’s journeying across the world to make a live appearance at the “Kara M. Forum.” This year, our Global Session featured voices from theological education in Africa: Bernard Boyo and Linda Chonco.
Michaela O’Donnell talks real talk on what we’re all going through these days as educators.
Meryl Herr, whose dissertation has actually been used in practice (remember, folks, envy is a sin) leads us through a vocational formation workshop to envision a flourishing future in our work.
Photographic proof that, with the right kind of help, a whole room full of theological educators is able to all stop talking at the same time.
Denise Daniels presents research on Christians in the workplace, comparing entrepreneurs with those in other roles. The movement has made much progress, and also has far to go in serving those most in need of envisioning and equipping.
Denver entrepreneur Helen Young Hayes discusses how Activate Workforce Solutions is creating a path back into productive work for those with criminal histories and other major challenges. We were all inspired, not only by her work, but by her obvious dedication and humility.
We look forward to seeing you at Karam Forum 2023!
