Compassion & Conviction that goes beyond self
Is it good for me AND my neighbor?
Can I see God in my perspective AND my fellow sister and brother?
Can I have conviction AND compassion?
Does the Bible speak to my view AND my friends?
Keynote Speaker
Justin Giboney is an attorney, political strategist and ordained minister in Atlanta, GA. He is also the Co-Founder and President of the AND Campaign, which is a coalition of urban Christians who are determined to address the sociopolitical arena with the compassion and conviction of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Mr. Giboney has managed successful campaigns for elected officials in the state and referendums relating to the city’s transportation and water infrastructure.
In 2012 and 2016, Georgia’s 5th congressional district elected him as a delegate for the Democratic National Convention. A former Vanderbilt University football player and law student, Justin served on the Urban League of Greater Atlanta Board of Directors. He’s the co-author of Compassion (&) Conviction - The AND Campaign's Guide to Faithful Civic Engagement and has written op-eds for publications such as Christianity Today and The Hill.
Beyond Political Divides
Amidst the tumultuous landscape of contemporary discourse, we acknowledge the influence of political polarization and refuse to succumb to its divisive rhetoric and commit to standing strong in the thing that unites us: Christ. Our mission transcends political affiliations, seeking instead to foster a space of genuine dialogue and understanding. While recognizing that part of our diversity falls along a political spectrum, we endeavor to dismantle the barriers that hinder authentic engagement. Our goal is to create a space for our students to move beyond these simplistic characterizations to engage as citizens for the common good.
Embracing Intellectual and Spiritual Humility
Against the backdrop of a pivotal 2024 national election, the Beyond Conference emerges as a resource for intellectual and spiritual growth. Empowered with the tools of humility and empathy, our students are poised to navigate the complexities of contemporary issues with grace and compassion. Through dialogue that transcends partisan divides, they emerge as catalysts for societal transformation, guided by the principles of justice and righteousness.
Agents of Change
Our vision extends beyond the confines of academia, permeating into the fabric of society. We envision a generation of trailblazers, equipped not only with knowledge but also with a fervent desire to effectuate change. As they engage with the pressing issues of our time, they embody the spirit of compassionate conviction, bridging divides and championing inclusivity.
Cultivating a Culture of Care
Central to our ethos is the cultivation of a Culture of Care—a framework rooted in restorative practices. Through intentional dialogue and compassionate conflict resolution, we endeavor to foster an environment of equity and reconciliation. This initiative, driven by community consensus, heralds a new era of transformative growth, where every voice is heard and valued.
In the spirit of Rodney K. Sisco’s enduring legacy, we invite you to join us on this transformative journey. Together, let us transcend the boundaries of self-interest and embrace the boundless potential of compassionate conviction.
How can you get involved?
We extend a heartfelt invitation to church and community organizations to partner with us for the Beyond Conference: Compassionate Conviction that goes beyond self. As we discover humble discourse in the season of ideological divides and explore the transformative power of compassionate conviction, we believe that collaboration with your organizations can amplify the impact on all communities. Fostering a culture of dialogue, understanding, and action through this event, we invite you to participate in this enriching experience, where we will engage with thought-provoking discussions, gain valuable insights, and be empowered to effect positive change.
Are you looking for these types of resources for your community? As a result of the Sisco Sponsorship, we can keep the registration cost low and we want to pass on that savings to you via group discount pricing.
Partner
Unlock a group rate discount for your denomination, church, or organization.
Exhibit
Get your product or service in front of the conference attendees who are college students, young adults, community leaders, youth leaders, students, professors, and non-profit leaders.
The 2024 Conference was sponsored by the following:
In honor of the indelible legacy of Rodney K. Sisco, a wise advocate for racial and ethnic diversity within Christian higher education, Roberts Wesleyan University and Northeastern Seminary are thrilled to announce the Beyond Conference. This two-day conference will help young adults and students discover humble discourse in the season of ideological divides through compassionate conviction that goes beyond self.
In contemplating the privilege of hosting the Sisco Symposium, we find solace in our foundational roots, deeply entwined with the visionary aspirations of B.T. Roberts, the founder of Roberts Wesleyan University. Roberts envisioned an educational sanctuary where young Christians could converge, irrespective of cultural or ideological differences. This shared ethos serves as our guiding light, propelling us forward with purpose and conviction.
Rodney K. Sisco was a strong pillar in a vast, multifaceted community, whose life work was centered around providing wise leadership in pursuit of the Christ-centered vision of racial and ethnic diversity in Christian higher education. In his honor, this conference intends to inform, prepare, and influence future Christian leaders to see, embrace, and practice holistic biblical Kingdom Diversity through compassion and conviction.
"Grace says that we are to be patient with each other. We spend time with each other. We’re preparing young men and women to know…how to be people who are able to engage with difference and conflict in a way that still says we’re doing it as men and women of God"