We now invite you to a Lunch & Learn session introducing the Proposed Anti-Racism Policy that will be brought forward for a vote at our May 20th Assembly Gathering at St. James Presbyterian Church.
You’re Invited: A Conversation with Rev. Dr. Laurie Ferguson
“Courageous Relationships: From Certainty to Curiosity”
📅 Wednesday, May 15th
🕙 10:00 AM (MT)
📍 Zoom – [Link]
Join us for a special Zoom with Rev. Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Ph.D., PCC, as we explore the theme of courageous relationships—how we move beyond assumptions to deeper, grace-filled connection.
This session builds on Laurie’s upcoming sermon for the May 20 Presbytery Assembly, “Curious Yearning” (Luke 19:1–6), where she reflects on Jesus’ interaction with Zacchaeus and the power of curiosity over judgment.
With more than two decades in parish ministry and a doctorate in psychology, Laurie brings both pastoral wisdom and psychological insight to her work as a leadership coach. Her passion is helping individuals and communities grow in resilience, faithful courage, and transformational leadership.
This interactive session will offer practical tools and space for reflection as we prepare to conspire courageously—together.
🔗 Learn more about Laurie at lauriejferguson.com
All are welcome—come with open hearts and curious minds!
This gathering will be a sacred space to reflect, dream, and conspire together as we seek God’s guidance for our shared journey. Let us come with open hearts and courageous spirits as we explore what it means to lean into transformative relationships and faithful curiosity.
2025 Presbytery Assembly Theme: Courageously Conspiring Together
For 2025, Denver Presbytery gathers around the bold and unifying theme: Courageously Conspiring Together. At its heart, “to conspire” means to breathe together—an invitation into partnership, shared purpose, and Spirit-filled trust.
This May, our Assembly will focus on one vital expression of that theme: Caring Relationships. What does it mean to truly care for one another in our congregations, communities, and ministries? How do we build courageous relationships rooted in compassion, trust, accountability, and grace?
To conspire for caring relationships is to move forward not in isolation, but in deep connection—with empathy, presence, and vulnerability. It’s the work of building bridges, bearing witness to each other’s stories, and becoming a people who reflect Christ’s love in tangible, transformational ways.
This theme reflects one of the Seven Marks of Vital Congregations from the PC(USA), and is a core part of how we imagine God’s Kin-dom taking shape among us in Denver Presbytery.
As we prepare to gather on May 20 at St. James Presbyterian Church, we invite you to breathe with us—to listen, to learn, and to conspire for connection and care in all corners of our shared ministry.
🕊️ Together, may we courageously conspire for relationships that heal, restore, and inspire.
SCHEDULE | Tuesday, May 20, 2025
5 pm | In person check in, registration, fellowship and dinner begin
5:50 pm | Dinner ends, online checkin begins
6 pm | Assembly Gathering and Worship Begins
At our last presbytery gathering, we engaged in a creative and meaningful activity—you may remember we planted terrariums! As we worked with soil and plants, we also dug into deeper questions around spiritual formation and transformation—two vital marks of a thriving congregation. (You can revisit those guiding questions here.)
Each group also selected a “terrarium caretaker” to tend their creation until the next assembly. If that was you—thank you!
As we prepare for our May gathering, we’d love for you to share a picture of your terrarium in its current state, whether it’s flourishing or not. Growth of all kinds—thriving, struggling, or even failing—can offer spiritual insight.
We also invite you to reflect on this experience:
What did you notice during this month of care?
What have these living things taught you about spiritual growth and nurturing in your own faith community?
How might tending to life in small, intentional ways shape our understanding of transformation?
Your reflections will help nourish the wider presbytery community. And please, keep the terrarium as a thank-you for your care and presence on this journey.
With gratitude,
Rev. Dr. Dee Cooper
Lead Presbyter
Rev. Laurie J. Ferguson, Ph.D., PCC
Dr. Laurie Ferguson brings a unique blend of pastoral experience and psychological expertise to her work as an Executive and Leadership Coach. Having served as a parish pastor for over twenty years before pursuing her doctorate in psychology, she understands firsthand the challenges and opportunities of church leadership.
Dr. Ferguson specializes in helping individuals and organizations develop resilience skills and achieve their goals through faithful courage. Her coaching approach is informed by her training in clinical psychology, Jungian and transpersonal psychology, life cycles, human development, and organizational development.
With degrees from Smith College, Princeton Seminary, and Adelphi University, Dr. Ferguson holds both a Ph.D. in psychology and a Master of Divinity. She is a licensed clinical psychologist and a Professional Certified Coach (PCC).
She resides in the Hudson River Valley in New York. For more information about her, visit her website: lauriejferguson.com
You're Invited: Denver Presbytery Staff Remote Day!
When: Wednesday, June 18th
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: SUPS & CUPS 14011 W Quincy Ave unit d, in Morrison
On this special Staff Remote Day, the Denver Presbytery staff is stepping out of the office and into the community! From 10 AM to 1 PM, our team will be working remotely at the “home” of one of our New Worshipping Communities, A Stoked Life, led by Mindy and Nathan Heimer. We'd love to spend time connecting with you.
Whether you'd like to grab a cup of coffee, chat about ministry, or just say hello, we invite you to stop by and visit with us. It’s a casual opportunity to connect, share stories, and build relationships face-to-face.
Warmly,
The Denver Presbytery Staff
In July 2025, the Presbyterian Church (USA) will welcome thousands of its high school age youth and their adult youth workers to Louisville, Kentucky for four days of worship, recreation, bible study, outreach, and faith formation all around the theme of “As If We Were Dreaming”.
Dear Friends,
Mark your calendars for a weekend of renewal, connection, and spiritual refreshment! We’re thrilled to invite you to the 2025 Women’s Retreat — a time to awaken your senses, revive your spirit, and reconnect with God and one another.
🗓️ Retreat Dates: September 26–28, 2025
📍 Location: Franciscan Retreat Center, Colorado Springs
🎙️ Keynote Speaker: Rev. Joy Engelsman
💡 Theme: The Sensible Woman
This year’s retreat theme, “The Sensible Woman,” invites us to explore the full sensory experience of faith and life—seeing, hearing, feeling, tasting, and speaking with intention and grace. Through powerful teaching, guided devotionals, and soul-refreshing conversations, we’ll explore what it means to live fully alive in Christ—even in seasons when we may feel unseen, unheard, or disconnected.
Meet Our Speaker:
Rev. Joy Engelsman brings deep wisdom and a global perspective, having spent her early years in Nigeria and decades in ministry leadership. With experience as a pastor, chaplain, coach, and conference speaker, Joy now serves as a missionary with Youth for Christ International and is a new minister member of Denver Presbytery. She’s passionate about nurturing healthy leaders and cultivating authentic faith in community.
✨ Registration Info:
Early Registration (by August 20): $189 per person
Late Registration (August 21–September 10): $219 per person
📝 Retreat Brochure Coming Soon!
We’ll be sharing the full schedule and registration link soon—but for now, be sure to save the date and invite a friend!
📬 Questions? Contact:
Annely Noble – annely.noble@comcast.net
Sharon Blackstock – dwightandsharon@msn.com
We can’t wait to spend this sacred weekend with you. Let’s gather, grow, and experience the goodness of God—together.
With joy,
Sistrs in Spirit Women’s Retreat Team
This event has been cancelled.
Monday, April 28th | 12:00–1:00 PM | Zoom
Curious about the overtures coming before the PC(USA) General Assembly this summer? Wondering what Denver Presbytery will be voting on at our upcoming Assembly Gathering?
Join us for a Lunch & Learn to explore the overtures Denver Presbytery will consider on May 20 at our Assembly Gathering at St. James Presbyterian Church.
We'll look at these overtures through a PC(USA) lens, considering:
What these overtures mean for the future of our denomination
How they reflect our values of justice, equity, and shared mission
What conversations are emerging across the church
This is a great opportunity for commissioners, clergy, and curious congregants alike to engage in faithful discernment together. Bring your lunch, your questions, and your commitment to being an informed and connected part of our Presbyterian family.
📝 Join Here
📧 Questions? Contact email our Stated Clerk, gretchen Sausville.
Let’s conspire courageously—together—toward a church that listens, learns, and leads with love.
If you didn’t reserve dinner by March 24th, it is no longer available. We apologize for any confusion or inconvenience.
You’re Invited: A Weekend of Engagement with Rev. Tony Larson
Join us for a meaningful time of worship, learning, and conversation with Rev. Tony Larson, Co-Moderator of the 226th General Assembly of PC(USA). Across three special gatherings, we’ll explore discipleship, servant leadership, and what it means to follow Christ in today’s world.
THIS IS THE 3RD OPPORTUNITY TO ENGAGE WITH REV. LARSON.
📍 April 1 | Presbyterian Assembly Gathering: "Discipleship Formation and Servant Leadership"
Gather with us as we reflect, worship, and conspire together for spiritual growth and faithfulness, responding to Christ’s call for transformation.
Theme: Conspiring… for Spiritual Growth and Faithfulness and Conspiring… to Respond to the Call of Transformation
Time: 5 pm Dinner and Fellowship | 6 pm Meeting and Worship
Location: Good Shepherd PC
Accessibility: Dinner will be held on the lower level which is accessible via the ramp located on the outside of the building. Worship and assembly will be held on the main level. A restroom is available on both levels. Generative time will be held upstairs for those unable to navigate the stairs. There is plenty of parking!
This is a rare opportunity to engage with a thoughtful leader, explore what it means to be the church today, and grow in faith together. We hope you’ll join us!
NOTE ABOUT DINNER: RSVP for dinner was due March 24th so we could plan and order food. If you did not register and pay for dinner, please come join us for dessert and fellowship!
You’re Invited: A Weekend of Engagement with Rev. Tony Larson
Join us for a meaningful couple of days of worship, learning, and conversation with Rev. Tony Larson, Co-Moderator of the 226th General Assembly of PC(USA). Across three special gatherings, we’ll explore Courageously Conspiring Together for Spiritual Growth, Faithfulness, and the Call to Transformation—
March 31 | Lunchtime Workshop: "Models for Discipleship in an Age of Division: Why Church?"
Through the lens of Lukan parables, Rev. Larson will guide us in exploring who we follow, how we embody Christ, and where we are called to build courageous relationships.
9:15 – 10:30: Who are we following…?
10:45 – 11:30: How do we embody Christ as disciples?
11:45 – 12:30: Where does Christ need us to build courageous relationships?
12:30: Lunch to follow.
Optional: Pastors and leaders are invited to stay (or just come) after lunch for conversation about ministry in the current moment and a time of prayer.
Location: Denver Presbytery Offices
RSVP to bronte@denpres.org so we know how many people to expect. Pizza and salad for lunch!
Check out the other opportunities to connect with Rev. Larson while he is in Colorado!
Join us for a meaningful couple of days of worship, learning, and conversation with Rev. Tony Larson, Co-Moderator of the 226th General Assembly of PC(USA). Across three special gatherings, we’ll explore discipleship, servant leadership, and what it means to follow Christ in today’s world.
March 30 | Worship at First Aurora
Come hear Rev. Larson preach at First Presbyterian Church of Aurora as we gather in worship and reflect on God’s call to bold faith and courageous discipleship. Members of Divino Salvador and Neema Church will also be joining in worship.
Time: 10 AM
Location: First Presbyterian Church of Aurora
Bring a friend and check out the other opportunities to hear and connect with Rev. Tony Larson!
Check out the other opportunities to connect with Rev. Larson while he is in Colorado!
You are invited to our first Leadership Summit | Conspiring to build courageous relationships!
Join us for this three-week collaborative preaching series during the Pentecost season, where we will explore and amplify a shared theme of courage, justice, and the Spirit’s transformative work.
You’re Invited to the Ordination Service of Jordan Shive
Dear Friends in Christ,
With joy and gratitude, the Presbytery of Denver invite you to the Ordination Service of Jordan Shive as he is set apart for ordained ministry in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
📅 Date: Saturday, February 15th
⏰ Time: 1:00 PM
📍 Location: First Presbyterian Church531 South College AvenueFort Collins, CO, 8052
Jordan, a member of Eagle River Presbyterian Church, is certified ready to receive a call and has faithfully prepared for this moment through his studies at Fuller Theological Seminary (Master of Divinity). He currently serves as a Chaplain Supervisor in the University of Colorado Health Systems, answering God’s call to a ministry of presence as a validated minister.
Join us in celebrating this sacred occasion as we witness God’s calling, offer our blessings, and uphold Jordan in prayer as he steps into ordained ministry.
All are welcome! We hope you will share in this special day of worship and commissioning.
Conspire = breathe together
Combination of partnership (with presbytery, each other)
Join us at IKEA in Centennial in the Food Court for Remote Staff Day!
All 8th-12th grade students, their adult family members, and their youth ministry workers are invited to this informational meeting!
An Invitation for Pastoral Leaders!
In our contemporary world as pastoral leaders we are often pulled between the roles of being “prophetic” or being “pastoral”. These two perceived divergent roles create a challenge in how to lead. Do you provide comfort and compassion or inspire and challenge? Come join with us for an interactive and engaging workshop from leaders in the Denver Presbytery who specialize in prophetic leadership.
Prophetic Ministry: An Invitation to Deepening your Relationships
Prophetic Leadership
Integrating the Binaries
Courageous Conversations
Prophetic Preaching
Prophetic Pastoral Care
This workshop has been affirmed by Ministry Relations Committee (MRC) to meet the annual anti-racism requirement.
Green Mountain Presbyterian Church
12900 West Alameda Parkway
Lakewood, CO
9AM - 3 PM, lunch included
October 26th at 9:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.
Dr. Jemar Tisby
Jemar Tisby is the author of the New York Times bestselling book, The Color of Compromise: The Truth about the Church's Complicity in Racism, How to Fight Racism, and How to Fight Racism: Young Reader's Edition. He is also a Professor of History at Simmons College of Kentucky in Louisville. Jemar is the co-host of the "Pass the Mic" podcast. He speaks nationwide on the topics of racial justice, U.S. history and Christianity. Jemar earned his PhD in history and he studies race, religion, and social movements in the 20th century.
Location for all Forums will be at Montview Blvd Presbyterian Church, 1980 Dahlia St, Denver & Streaming Online at montview.org.
“White "Christian" Nationalism is the greatest threat to democracy and the witness of the church in the United States today.”
~ Dr. Jemar Tisby, February 28, 2024
Information and Registration coming soon for our IN PERSON ONLY Assembly Gathering on October 22nd Check back!
“It Can Happen Anywhere”
Guns to Gardens: Safely Surrendering Unwanted Guns
Saturday, October 19 at 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Community of Grace Presbyterian Church
7755 Vance Drive in Arvada
RSVP: Moderator Vicki Terry, 720-273-6870 or pwdencord@gmail.com by Wed., Oct. 16.
Cost: $10 per person paid at the door for lunch and program (cash or check).
Awards are due by Monday, Oct. 14 to alicead1951@icloud.com or 303-521-8615.
Mission Project for Gathering
Please join us in bringing empty medicine bottles to donate. The bottles need to be washed in warm, soapy water, rinsed, and dried. The tops need to be attached after cleaning and drying. If the labels are difficult to remove, Goo-Be-Gone and Goof-Off are two products that help the process.
Chuck Sparks will be presenting our 2025 budget. Ask questions and see what 2025 will bring.
Shepherd of the Hills, Wheat Ridge Presbyterian and Genesis Presbyterian and having a joint service to celebrate World Communion Sunday at Shepherd of the Hills.
The service starts at 9:30am and will feature a combined choir from the three churches and communion of homemade bread.
You are invited to the Commissioning Service of Linda Valo to Commissioned Pastor of Faith Formation at Wheat Ridge PC.
The Journey with Migrants (JwM) Mission Partnership of Denver Presbytery is sponsoring a fundraiser to support their work. Their will be a silent auction, a blind wine table, food, more wine, some speechifying and some entertainment.
Dear Pastoral Leaders,
We are delighted to invite you to a special gathering at Cure Organic Farms. This event is designed to offer you a peaceful and enriching experience, where you can connect with fellow colleagues, enjoy a guided tour of the farm, and share in meaningful conversations.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, September 26th
Join us for Lunch!
@ 12:00 we will meet at Reelfish 2770 Arapahoe Rd, Lafayette, CO 80026; Menu https://www.eatreelfish.com/menu
AND/OR join us at the farm from 1-3 PM | Cure Organic Farms, 7416 Valmont Road, Boulder, Colorado, 80301
Our Time Together:
Welcome and Introductions
Gather and make connections.
Farm Tour
Take a guided tour of Cure Organic Farms, learn about sustainable farming practices, and see firsthand the beauty and bounty of the farm.
Connection and Fellowship
Gather with colleagues to discuss, share, and connect. This is an excellent opportunity to build relationships and support each other in your ministries.
Please RSVP to Dee@denpres.org no later than September 20th so we know how many for lunch and the tour.
We look forward to your presence and the chance to come together in such a serene and inspiring environment.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Dee Cooper
You are invited to the installation service of Rev. Dr. Lorraine Leist as the Associate Pastor of Congregational Care and Older Adults at Montview Blvd PC.
Journey with Migrants Mission Partnership in collaboration with the American Friends Service Committee and the Interfaith Immigration Network, will facilitate an ecumenical vigil at the GEO Immigrant Detention Center in Aurora. Please join us!
Denver Presbytery is pleased to announce their sponsorship of the inaugural Caffeinated Church Conference in Denver, Colorado, September 9-12, 2024! Register today!
Welcome our new retreat leader, Rev. Dani Hillyer! At this year’s SISTR retreat you are invited to delve into the tapestry of your own stories – the ones that define, empower and sometimes confine us. Register today to join us in September.
Join fellow Presbyterians for a morning of worship, connection and collaboration as together we look ahead to a faithful future for our congregations.
Registration for our IN PERSON ONLY Assembly Gathering is now open!
