Introduction

Welcome!  We are delighted to announce the 6th biennial 2008 MCC Conference for People of African Descent, our Friends and Allies. Since 1998, the PAD Conference has been a landmark MCC event and it continues to be an occasion to bring together people of African descent, our friends and allies. To add to the excitement of our gathering this year, we will also celebrate the 10th year of the PAD Conference

Rev. Elder Darlene Garner
& Rev. Candy Holmes

The conference theme is “On the Move – Stepping Out on Faith,” a testament to our commitment to building bridges of support and understanding among people of all races, to address issues related racism and homophobia, and to create together a place where we all are at home. 

Introducing the VISIONS Team!

Valerie Batts

Valerie Batts, Ph.D., is Executive Director and cofounder of VISIONS, Inc. She leads the consultation and training components of the company. Author of Modern Racism: New Melody for the Same Old Tune, she is the originator of the VISIONS training model and experiential workshops. Dr. Batts earned her doctorate in clinical psychology from Duke University.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, she provides training to human service providers, educators, and managers in a variety of areas. Working both nationally and internationally, Dr. Batts works with people and with organizations to develop and maintain environments
that support, respect, and appreciate differences.

Valerie was awarded an honorary Doctorate from EDS.  Valerie has worked with EDS to bring about individual and institutional change over a period of several years.  She has also worked with All Saints Episcopal Church in Pasadena, CA, which has a large and diverse congregation.

Joan Schoenhals

Joan Schoenhals, Ph.D., has worked with VISIONS since 1987, serving as both Associate Director of
Programs and as Lead Consultant. She emigrated from Canada in the early 1980s for her graduate study in counseling psychology at Ohio State University.

Dr. Schoenhals has provided training and consultation in the areas of diversity and multiculturalism to a wide range of groups and  organizations. By helping others
to see the nuances of difference from a North American, non-US perspective, she has been an invaluable resource throughout the VISIONS organization. She is drawn
to exploring the intersection of the dynamics of oppression and internalized oppression with faith, spirituality, and healing--for the benefit of self, others, and organizations.

Additionally, Dr. Schoenhals is project Director for ACCESS: A Multicultural Approach to End of Life Care, offering workshops and consultation to providers on end of life care from a multicultural perspective.

Joan was a member of MCC Richmond for several years in the mid 90's.  While at MCC Richmond she was a co-founder of the Bridge Builders social justice ministry, and a choir member with the Spirits of Joy.  Along with Angela Bryant, Joan co-led a
workshop presented to the Mid-Atlantic District Conference.

To facilitate us moving in this direction, three stellar speakers will grace the Conference with their wisdom and insight to compel us forward on our journey.  Our guest speakers are Rev. Bishop Carlton Pearson, Rev. Deborah Johnson, and Keynote Banquet Speaker, Rev. Dr. Renee McCoy.  Whether this will be your first time attending or you have attended every conference, you will find refreshment, be inspired, learn, and have great fun!

Join the Worship/Music Team!

We are excited about the upcoming PAD Conference in St. Louis, MO! In many ways we will experience uplifting worship and music.  We invite you to consider participating in the conference music ministry. We have wonderful plans and new ideas to share to make your experience inspiring and enjoyable.  We're On the Move!  If you are interested in participating in the music ministry, please complete and submit the

Orgena Rose
Worship Coordinator

Introducing the Anniversary Team!

Meet the Team!

It is with great joy that the 2008 PAD Planning Team announces the appointment of Rev. Bernie Barbour, Rev. Delores Berry, Rev. Wanda Floyd and Mr. Barry Hundley and as our 10th Year Anniversary Team. This Team will help us celebrate this landmark occasion by painting a panoramic view of the history of the People of African Descent Conference and highlight during the conference the rich experiences that speaks to who we are.  You will not want to miss one moment!

Conference Scholarships -
How You Can Help

Not a handout but a hand up!  Will you sponsor or contribute toward a scholarship
to assist in supporting someone to attend the People of African Conference? When
you register please indicate if you would to like to make a contribution. If you are
not a registrant, please complete the Scholarship Donation Form (click here).

Volunteers Welcomed

Don't just attend the conference, be a part  of the conference - VOLUNTEER!!!
Here's how – complete and submit the Volunteer Form (click here).

Conference Program Ads - It Pays to Advertise

Did you know that your ad helps defray the cost of the People of African Descent
Conference so that it is affordable for all? Did you know that your ad will provide
great exposure for your church, organization or business?  We invite you to support the PAD Conference and yourself. Advertise! Submit your ad by February 29th. See the Program Ad Form (click here).