Conference on Worship, Theology, and the Arts

The Conference on Worship, Theology, and the Arts (CWTA) brings together clergy, worship musicians, and lay leaders from around the country. Participants are offered a variety of seminars, sessions, and plenaries applicable to those involved in congregational ministry. In addition to professional development, the conference offers networking and time for spiritual reflection.

CWTA is be a great resource for rostered leaders in all stages of their ministry to continue their learning and expand their networks. The 2022 conference will take place July 25-28 at St. Olaf, with early bird registration beginning February 15. We are also offering a virtual conference track for the first time this year! The conference theme is Scatter the Imagination of Our Hearts, based on Mary’s proclamation in the Magnificat that the proud will be scattered in the imagination of their hearts. The conference will invite participants to explore how the power of imagination can challenge, change, and inspire, especially as churches respond to the twin pandemics of COVID-19 and structural racism. The 2022 conference will feature Rev. Dr. Willie James Jennings and Rev. Dr. Eunjoo Mary Kim, both of whom have produced books and research focused around race, multiculturalism, and the church. The conference will also feature musicians Tesfa Wondemagegnehu and Anton Armstrong (choir) and Jill Mahr (handbells) and sessions led by Joe Davis, Deanna Thompson, Kelly Sherman-Conroy, and more. Additionally, the conference will offer a “Clergy Connection” where pastors gather to discuss a specific topic and network.