Ministry in Times of Conspiracy Theories and Disinformation
Date: June 17, 2021 9:30 am
Location: Virtual
As recent research has shown, conspiracy theories and disinformation are wreaking havoc in many congregations in the U.S. Pastors are encountering the spread of conspiracy theories within their congregations and some are leaving their churches because of it. These scholar-practitioners bring experiences in ministry, ethics, medicine, and congregational consulting and coaching. Panelists and participants will explore questions about why conspiracy theories and disinformation are spreading in congregations and how faith leaders can respond.
Rev. Rhonda Abbott Blevins, DMin, has been in ministry for over twenty-five years, currently serving on the Pinnacle Leadership Associates team as web coordinator and co-host of Pastor Life Podcast. She is also the pastor of Chapel by the Sea, an interdenominational church in Clearwater Beach, Florida. Previously, Rhonda served as the coordinator of Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Kentucky. Earning her Doctor of Ministry in 2014 from the McAfee School of Theology at Mercer University, Rhonda studied the effects of the spiritual practice of gratitude on well-being. Rhonda is married to Terry; they live with their two sons, Jake and Rhys.
Rev. Dr. Delesslyn Audra Kennebrew, J.D., M.Div. is a Visionary Strategist, Inspirational Essayist, Preacher, and Foster Mom. For nearly 15 years, she has worked to give life to the vision and mission of local churches. Dr. Kennebrew has a passion for helping churches to discern, discover, and develop what’s next. She currently serves as the Regional Minister for Ministry Innovation in the Greater Kansas City Region of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Her Ministry Motto is Colossians 3:17 – And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
Rev Tarris Rosell, PhD, DMin has been on Central’s faculty since 1999. He serves as Professor of Pastoral Theology teaching Christian Ethics. Dr. Rosell also holds an appointment as the Sr Rosemary Flanigan Chair at the Center for Practical Bioethics. As a bioethicist he does clinical ethics consultation and education for the University of Kansas Medical Center. In 2020, Terry co-founded with a seminarian and colleagues LivingLove International for collaborative humanitarian work in Africa. Donations for ceramic art from his clay studio help fund LLI.
