Brown Church: Five Hundred Years of Worship and Witness

What can the wider church learn from stories of Latino/a Christians through five centuries of faith? Join us for a lively and interactive summer seminar, directed by Dr. Robert Chao Romero, in which we will learn about, and learn from the distinctive contributions of the Brown church. We will center our discussions around Romero’s book Brown Church: Five Centuries of Latina/o Social Justice, Theology, and Identity (IVP Academic, 2020) and supplementary readings. Drawing together themes of justice, flourishing, and the kingdom of God, this seminar will offer stories and insights for ministry leaders to use in their own contexts. The seminar will also explore ways in which Latina/o theology offers a roadmap for healthy spiritual and theological reconstruction. Inspired and challenged by examples of prophetic witness, love, and solidarity, participants will be equipped to serve with historical awareness and an enduring posture of hope.

This seminar will be offered at no cost to selected participants. Space is limited. All meals and lodging will be provided. Course readings will be sent to participants in advance of the seminar week. Participants are responsible for the cost of travel to and from the seminar.

Who should apply? 

Pastors, professors, Christian educators, worship leaders, ministry directors, and other interested laypeople from a variety of Christian traditions are welcome to apply.

Apply Now 

Applications for this seminar are due on March 15, 2026. Participants will be notified of their selection by April 17, 2026.

Applicants must fill out an application form and provide:

1. A 300-word essay about why you are interested in participating in the seminar

2. Your résumé/CV

3. Contact information for one reference

Schedule Overview

Sunday, July 26

Afternoon/evening – Arrive in Grand Rapids

6:00 p.m. – Informal dinner for participants who have arrived

Monday, July 27–Thursday, July 30

8:30 a.m. – Breakfast

9:00 a.m. – Classroom time

12:00 p.m. – Lunch

1:00 p.m. – Rest, reflection, conversation, creation

4:00 p.m. – Group discussion and sharing

5:30 p.m. – Dinner

Friday, July 31

8:30 a.m. – Breakfast

9:00 a.m. – Classroom time

12:00 p.m. – Lunch

1:00 p.m. – Conclusion