Distinguished Speaker Forum
Distinguished Speaker Forum
For many years, there has been talk of having a great lecture series that could parallel and complement our wonderful E. Carl Freeman Concert Series. In 2023, the Endowment Board approved a grant request to begin hosting speakers and, through these opportunities, determine if this is a viable ministry which should continue.
A small planning group was formed to dream, ask good questions, and begin hosting excellent presenters. To honor the importance of a “Thoughtful Faith,” a key value of our community, our team hopes our series can provide thought-provoking and challenging content through the presentations of enlightening and stimulating individuals with varied perspectives, which may not be shared by all.
With joy we recently announced that our first slate of speakers and shortly thereafter hosted our first presenter. Through this Forum, we wish to welcome our local community and, of course, encourage all of our folks at River Road to participate.
Distinguished Speaker Forum presents
2023-2024 Season
Purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. Additional lectures may be announced throughout the season. They will be listed here and tickets will be available on Eventbrite. Typically, lectures will not be livestreamed nor will recordings be published at a later time.
Nikki Giovanni, Poet Laureate
Lecture, Q&A, Dessert Social, Book Signing
Thursday, October 26, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets $5-$20/person
A Conversation on Racial Healing
Panel Discussion with Rev. Dr. Lance Watson, The Rev. Ben Campbell, and Author Kristen Green
Saturday, February 10, 2024 at 12:00 p.m.
While tickets are free of charge, you may offer a suggested donation of $10.
Sean of the South
An Evening with Sean Dietrich Author, Storyteller, Entertainer, and Encourager
Thursday, May 16, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets $20/person
Reception and book signing to follow.
An Evening with Jeff Chu
Journalist, Author, Speaker, Preacher, and Teacher
Sunday, September 15, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.
While tickets are free of charge, you may offer a suggested donation of $10.
Brian McLaren
Unafraid of Questions about Church, Faith, Doubt, Christianity, God
Friday, October 4, 2024
Tickets required—only sold via Eventbrite
Inclusive ticket—$40/person—available for both sessions.
Limited scholarships available, email info@riverroad.church.
Session 1: Relevance Today
3:30-6:30 p.m.
This session is aimed toward those in ministry roles or positions. Dinner provided.
Tickets $25/person
Session 2: Faith, Doubt, Questions – It All Belongs
7:00-8:30 p.m.
This session is open to all. Reception and book signing to follow.
Tickets $20/person