GA12 Design Statement

General Assembly (GA) 2012 will be a gathering with multiple ways of engaging in justice work for people of all ages. Joining with the people of Arizona, we will worship, witness, learn and work together. We will leave General Assembly grounded in our faith, energized for justice and with resources to bring this work home to our congregations.

Witness and Service
We will partner with communities in Arizona to bring attention to the injustices and human rights abuses they face. Our service will allow all participants to witness in ways that reflect our commitment to justice, equity and compassion for all. We will also do hands-on work with our community partners. Projects will take place in a variety of settings, and include multigenerational teams and accessible venues. Whether you choose to witness for one hour, make signs for people to carry, or spend a day at a project, there will be opportunities for everyone.

Programs and Workshops
We will learn how to build stronger relationships, community partnerships, and movements for justice. We will go in-depth on important justice issues such as colonization, border issues and advocacy. We encourage teams to attend General Assembly in order to share experiences and learn how to continue this work at home.

The Work of Justice
Our business will be grounded in our faith tradition’s commitment to justice. Plenary sessions will be limited to matters essential to the governance of our Association and items that further our justice-making efforts. The exhibit hall will offer justice resources and opportunities to connect with local communities.

Spirit and Community
Filled with joy and boldness, we will sing, we will worship, and we will celebrate together. We will have spiritual support and reflection as we build a just world. Together, we will create a beloved community without borders.

–the above words were created by the GA12 Design Team, and can be found–along with other GA12-related articles–on the GA webpage.

As a member of the GA Planning Committee, I don’t want to get too personal or too far ahead of the curve, but I will publish more material as it is available. I can say that I am really, truly pleased with the way our first planning session went. I believe that everyone will find something to love about GA12 – both traditional “GA junkies” and those who want a genuinely different, justice-centered participatory experience.


(original post, with links, at So May We Be)