Dear Denver Presbytery Friends,
What does it mean to conspire—to breathe together—as people of faith?
On Saturday, August 16, 2025, the Presbytery gathered at Iliff School of Theology under the theme: Conspiring for Authentic Evangelism
Together, we explored what it means to share the good news of Jesus Christ in ways that are genuine, relational, and Spirit-led.
We were blessed to welcome Doug Tilton, Ecumenical Liaison On The Global Academic Liaison For The Unified Agency, as our guest speaker. Doug invited us to consider how God calls us to bear witness with authenticity, humility, and joy—both locally and globally.
The day was filled with celebration and connection as we:
Welcomed delegates from the Zimbabwe-Denver Partnership (PZDP)
Experienced the rhythms of a drumming circle
Honored the 20th anniversary of the PZDP with those who have walked alongside this ministry over the years
This gathering built on the spirit of our Assembly at Calvary Presbyterian Church earlier in the year, where Moderator Ruth McCollum Huff invited us into a spirit of connection and shared purpose under the guiding theme:
Partnering: Courageously Conspiring Together…to create courageous relationships by moving from certainty to curiosity.
That same spirit was alive at Iliff—encouraging us to listen deeply, serve faithfully, and embody the gospel in ways that are bold and compassionate.
Here are highlights from our meaningful time together:
The August Assembly gathered in a spirit of joy and global connection, celebrating the 20-year partnership between the Presbytery of Denver and the Presbytery of Zimbabwe. The day opened with a vibrant drumming circle led by Commissioned Pastor Josphat Ombacho, setting a lively tone for worship and discernment.
Lead Presbyter Welcome
Dee shared, we celebrate 20 years of partnership between the Presbytery of Zimbabwe and the Presbytery of Denver, a relationship born from a deep calling to listen to God’s voice and build genuine connection. This partnership, built on the visionary leadership of Rev. Dr. Tom Sheffield and Rev. Paul Neshangwe, has touched countless lives through shared ministry, love, and faith. As we reflect on this journey and honor the relationships that have sustained us, let us celebrate all that has been accomplished and commit to continuing this mission together in Christ’s love.
Worship & Preaching
Guest preacher Doug Tilton, Ecumenical Liaison On The Global Academic Liaison For The Unified Agency and long-time partner in Southern Africa, inspired the assembly with a message on “Conspiring for Authentic Evangelism,” exploring how the Gospel can be shared with authenticity, love, and mutual respect.
Doug reminded us of the 1927 “Friendship Dolls,” exchanged between Japan and the U.S. as a fragile but enduring witness to friendship across cultures. He connected that history to Denver Presbytery’s partnership with the Presbytery of Zimbabwe, begun in 2005, which has grown into sahwira—trusted friendships rooted in faith. In his message, Rev. Mutonganavo stressed that this partnership is transformative because it allows us to exchange cultures, learn from one another, and move beyond being “othered.” Together, Doug emphasized, we are called not only to be partners and friends but also co-conspirators in God’s mission—working across boundaries to embody justice, peace, and Christ’s transforming love.
Welcomes & Celebrations
Greetings from Presbytery of Zimbabwe leaders Elder Samkeliso “Samu” Siwela, Clerk of the Presbytery of Zimbabwe and Rev. Talkmore Chilang, Moderator of the Presbytery of Zimbabwe .
The Assembly welcomed New Minister Member: Rev. Dorothy Piatt-Esguerra, Central Presbyterian Church, and Commissioned Ready Candidate, Alex Sergio.
Commissioning of the Guatemala Partnership team.
Action Items Approved
Omnibus Motion – Including approval of the docket, minutes, reports, enrollment of corresponding members, and Wheat Ridge Presbyterian Church’s request to relocate its columbarium to Crown Hill Cemetery.
Election of 2026 Vice Moderator – Rev. Bill Sanders (Honorably Retired) elected.
Anti-Racism Policy – Adopted as presented, committing Denver Presbytery to annual anti-racism training for leaders and encouraging broad participation across congregations.
Administrative Commission for St. Andrew – Received updates on the congregation’s discernment process following leadership transitions and property decisions.
Financial Report
Chuck Sparks presented the July 2025 report showing income and expenses at approximately 50% of budget year-to-date, with healthy reserves and investment gains contributing to positive net income.
Partnership of Zimbabwe & Denver Presbyteries – 20th Anniversary
Paul Neshangwe reflected on the Zimbabwe & Denver Presbyteries' partnership with humor, recalling the early confusion between himself and Rev. Max Chiquita and the visionary leadership of Tom Sheffield. He shared stories of cultural misunderstandings and the vast differences between Denver and Harare, emphasizing that despite challenges, the partnership was clearly God’s choice and was nurtured by faithful relationships—especially through the early efforts of Roberta and Ralph Pipit. What began with one congregation soon grew to involve many, with leaders like Tom and Maxi Guida helping connect the presbyteries at the highest levels. Through home stays, shared worship, and even humorous moments—like mistaking a water shortage for generosity—the partnership deepened, creating lasting bonds and new dreams. Paul celebrated how these exchanges have touched lives on both sides, reminding us that this shared journey is built on prayer, creativity, and commitment, and continues to point us toward unity as children of God.
A highlight of the day was the signing of a renewed Memorandum of Understanding between the two presbyteries. The celebration included music, the singing of Siyahamba, cake cutting, and shared stories of ministry. Participants were invited to wear blue in honor of the partnership’s shared color.
What’s Next
Dee invited participants to celebrate familiar friends, new connections, and even those with whom they sometimes disagree, recognizing how the partnership has expanded hearts and touched countless lives over 20 years. Through photos, song, and storytelling, Dee lifted up the joy of shared relationships while urging the presbyteries to keep dreaming, listening, and growing together as they discern God’s call for the future. Singing “Deep and Wide” as a symbol of God’s abundant love, Dee called for relationships that continue to deepen and widen across boundaries. The partnership, Dee reminded us, embodies God’s dream for the world—challenging oppression and centering love by welcoming the lonely, feeding the hungry, protecting the vulnerable, and bearing witness to God’s justice and transformation.
Over the past 20 years, the partnership between the Presbytery of Denver and the Presbytery of Zimbabwe has flourished into a beautiful tapestry of relationships, love, and shared purpose. Together, we have celebrated joy, learned from missteps, supported one another through grief, and expanded our hearts across oceans and mountains in God’s love. This partnership, cultivated through prayer, creativity, and commitment, reflects the values of connection and shared vision, involving countless individuals from both communities. As we honor this legacy, we also look to the future, asking what God is calling us to do next. We commit to deepening and widening our relationships, listening with open hearts, growing together as equals, and discerning God’s whispers for the path ahead. Through this partnership, we embody God’s transformational love—centering the marginalized, welcoming the lonely, and building a world where all are recognized as beloved. Together, we become activators of God’s kin-dom, creating a global community of faith that reflects God’s dream for the world. Thanks be to God.
Generative Time
In Denver Presbytery we are committed to generative time in all our assemblies. At this meeting, we felt we could experience the generative movement. Paul, Sam,Talkmore and Fiona led the Presbytery in dance!
Closing & Benediction
Moderator Ruth McCollum Huff adjourned the meeting and Rev. Fiona Benzon (Presbytery of Zimbabwe) offered the benediction, followed by fellowship over cake.
