PLR Christian Educators Go to Memphis

Six women representing four Los Ranchos faith communities traveled to Memphis, Tennessee for the 2025 Association of Partners in Christian Education (APCE) Annual Event.

All were asked to respond to a set of questions.

• What inspired you?
• What surprised you?
• What did you learn that you are using or will use in your ministry?

Their responses were as unique as they are.

Frida Bundi, Church of Amazing Grace International

• What inspired you? How dedicated everyone was towards Christian Education.
• What surprised you? How many resources are available to us as Christian leaders and educators.
• What did you learn that you are using or will use in your ministry? Importance of using established curriculum. I am looking into obtaining curriculum for use in my youth/women ministry.
• Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience? I am looking forward to the next APCE conference, interacting with the new friends I made.

Nancy English-Fletcher, Director of Youth and Family ministries, Grace First Presbyterian Church

The event itself is so inspiring to me. I know it’s such a huge undertaking, and yet it all seems to flow so seamlessly. There’s opportunity after opportunity to learn and grow and question, to find support and make new connections. The organic nature of it all is very inspirational. I am always surprised by the diversity of those attending the event. We come from all over, and from many different churches with their own way of doing things. Yet, the environment feels very communal, very open and inviting. I always take something back from the workshops I attend, this year was no different. From workshops about Sunday School, to Youth Ministries and parent involvement, as well as the Certified Christian Educator course that I attended, there was much to learn. But I will say, the luncheon with the Presbyterian Youth Workers Association was very enlightening. I became a member, I’ve attended their monthly zoom meetings and tapped into the many resources they have made available to us. I am so grateful for my church that gives me the opportunity to attend, and I’m very grateful to the Presbytery for the scholarship that helps enable me to attend. I believe it makes a better educator and Youth Director, and strengthens my faith every time I attend. APCE is a blessing in my life.

Purity Gichuru, Director of Children and Youth Ministry, Church of Amazing Grace International

As someone who is still finding my footing in ministry leadership, I was inspired to learn from experienced leaders, gain practical tools, and find guidance in shaping a more solidified children and youth program. What surprised me this time at APCE was how practical and applicable the workshops were. To pick out one, I came back with a clearer understanding of how to make confirmation more engaging and meaningful for our youth. Since then, I’ve been working closely with my pastor to implement some of those insights—like creating a more interactive approach that includes mentorship, real-life faith applications, and deeper discussions about what it means to live out one’s faith.  I also loved touring Memphis City and learn more on their history and culture.

Catherine Mungai, Church of Amazing Grace International

• My inspiration was the quality and creativity used in ie workshop’s
• The surprise was extraordinary organization put into every aspect of the APCE Event.
• l learnt that we can all broaden our horizons by working together to achieve a set goal.
• I loved the experience of getting to meet and know new people, learn, share, and even enjoy each others company with a common purpose of knowledge, interaction and lastly fun.

Thank you to APCE!

Jane Parker, St. Mark Presbyterian Church

• I was inspired by the many first time attendees.
• I was surprised by the hotel and how many people wanted to see the ducks.
• The workshops I attended were just for my own personal growth and not necessarily to use going forward.

Susan Young Thornton, Presbytery of Los Ranchos

As a very long time APCE Annual Event attendee I look forward to connecting with friends and colleagues from near and far – people I’ve met and learned from over the years. The event is an opportunity to gain new perspectives, renew relationships, share ideas, and support one another as we seek to share faith with the people we serve. I am inspired by the people I meet – their intelligence, wisdom, and compassion. I cannot say I am surprised, but I am always delighted at how much fun this conference is. It was especially fun this year to watch the Peabody Ducks march out of the elevator and jump into the fountain under the watchful eye of the Duck Master, who always took the time to include the children in the festivities. And there are ducks everywhere in the hotel, white chocolate ducks filled with milk chocolate mousse in the bakery case, duck soap in the bathrooms, and you can even get a rubber duck in your glass of wine or cocktail! This lightheartedness is an occasion of rest and renewal for the serious work ahead.