A New Program Year Begins on Coming Together Sunday

by Alanna Simone Tyler, Associate Pastor for Justice and Mission and Meghan Gage-Finn, Senior Associate Pastor

Westminster launches the 2023-24 program year September 10, Coming Together Sunday. We will return to two worship services at 8:30 and 10:30am. During the Education Hour at 9:15am, children’s Church School and youth group resume. Adult learning will welcome R.T. Rybak and Gloria Perez, joining Senior Pastor Tim Hart-Andersen in conversation about Minneapolis-based and regional efforts to foster a renewed sense of community. In their respective roles, Rybak and Perez lead organizations committed to leadership development and sustaining thriving communities.

Rybak began serving as President and CEO of The Minneapolis Foundation in 2016 and he oversees the average annual distribution of more than $80 million in grants. Before assuming his current role, Rybak served as executive director of Generation Next, a coalition of civic, business, and school leaders focused on closing the educational opportunity gap in the Twin Cities. He served as mayor of Minneapolis from 2002 to 2013.

Perez began serving as President and CEO of The Women’s Foundation of Minnesota (WFM) in 2020 and oversees transformative investments, close to $50 million, in women, girls and gender-expansive people. Additionally, WFM conducts ongoing research; advocates for public policy; and invests in organizations and leaders to achieve gender and racial justice. Before leading WFM, Perez was President and Chief Executive Officer of the Jeremiah Program, a national nonprofit with a proven, holistic approach for moving families from poverty to prosperity two generations at a time.

At the end of 10:30am worship, everyone will be asked to head outside to Westminster Plaza for a group photo to commemorate the day for the Rev. Dr. Tim Hart-Andersen, who is retiring at the end of October. Following the photo, come back into the building to pick up your lunch for the All- Church Picnic, catered by Toma Mojo Grill. There will be a variety of delicious options available, including vegetarian and gluten free. The cost is $15/person and $40/family. You are encouraged to register on Realm.

As you enjoy your food, visit with others eating inside or outside the building. There will also be games and activities for young ones provided by Families, Youth, and Children’s ministries.