Generously sponsored by the Kirchherr Ministry Speaker Fund, this special weekend brings together music, preaching, conversation, learning, and community, featuring nationally recognized worship leaders Dr. Tony McNeill and Rev. Dr. Brad Braxton, whose ministries are deeply rooted in the Black Church tradition. Together, we’ll explore how faith, music, and worship can shape the way we listen, learn, serve, and live in the world. All are welcome – whether you sing in a choir, love music, or simply want to come, listen, and learn. Come for all or part of the weekend and leave renewed, inspired, and ready to live out your faith in new ways.

Want to sing? 

Come raise your voice! Choirs and singers from First Congo and surrounding communities will gather for workshops and rehearsals with Dr. McNeill, culminating in a joyful combined musical experience on Sunday. First Congo members will have opportunities to participate – whether or not you currently sing in our Chancel Choir. 

Rather listen and learn? 

Come for the conversations. Hear the music. Be part of the experience. Join us for some of the weekend – or all of it. 

On Sunday, October 25, at 10:00 AM we welcome the Rev. Dr. Brad Braxton to the pulpit. President and Professor of Public Theology at Chicago Theological Seminary, Dr. Braxton is a distinguished biblical scholar, author, and preacher whose work explores the connections among faith, justice, culture, and community. 

Then, at 11:30 AM, Dr. Braxton and Dr. McNeill come together for a Worship Talk-Back Conversation and Reflection centered on the question at the heart of the weekend:  How can worship and music move us from performance to proclamation – and prepare us to seek justice and live our faith in the world? 

Sing. Listen. Learn. Worship. 

Wonder that opens us. 
Worship that forms us. 
Witness that sends us into the world. 

Your generous gifts to the Kirchherr Ministry Fund help make this weekend possible. Thank you for supporting this ministry!