Editor’s note: The second gathering of the Big Tent will be in Indianapolis June 30-July 2. Billed as a family reunion, the event will “celebrate the mission and ministry of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).” The Big Tent is comprised of nine conferences, and participants can register for workshops in as many conferences as they choose. Worship, a keynote speaker and an exhibit hall will also be part of the event.

Organizers of the World Mission Matters conference at this year’s Big Tent want to make sure participants do just that — participate.

“World Mission doesn’t want to just have people come in and listen,” said Judson Taylor, communications associate for World Mission. “It’s two-way communication that we’re looking for.”

The conference will be focusing on three areas: justice, witness and reconciliation. Within that framework, participants will learn more about what the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and its partners are doing in the world, but they’ll also have the opportunity to share their ideas and engage in dialogue.

And the conference isn’t meant only for those with extensive backgrounds or experiences in mission work, Taylor said.

“It’s also for people who would like to dialogue with mission workers, mission partners and Presbyterian World Mission about world issues,” he said.

In addition to more than 25 workshops, World Mission Matters will also hold dinners, plenary sessions and other activities, such as a Mission Movie Theater on Friday, July 1. The movies will feature Presbyterian mission co-workers talking about justice, witness and reconciliation, as well as Presbyterian partner organizations.

To learn more about the World Mission Matters Conference and to view a full schedule, click here.