Date: Friday, Febraury 5, 2027

Time: 12:00PM-4:00PM CT

Modality: Online and In Person

Instructors: Dietra Wise Baker and Mike Atty

What does it mean for congregations to move beyond charity and become organized communities capable of transforming public life? This introductory workshop explores the foundations of faith-based community organizing, and the unique role congregations can play in building collective power, developing leaders, and addressing the root causes of injustice.

This workshop is ideal for clergy, lay leaders, seminarians, nonprofit leaders, and community members seeking practical tools to strengthen congregational leadership and deepen community engagement. No prior to organizing experience is required. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of congregational organizing, practical frameworks for action, and concrete next steps for building thriving, justice-rooted faith communities.

Dietra Wise Baker

Rev. Dr. Dietra Wise Baker is the Assistant Professor of Community Leadership, Director of Walker Leadership Institute at Eden Theological Seminary in St. Louis, Dr. Baker is certified anti-racism trainer for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), and a trainer of faith-based community organizing in the Gamaliel network. Dr. Dietra teaches Church Planting, Youth Ministry, Preaching, Faith Community Organizing, Anti-Racism/Anti-Caste, Vocational Resilience and Formation. Dr. Dietra is a respected trainer and community leader who often consults and collaborates around her sustained work in community organizing, youth justice, detention/prison/jail, and faith justice movements. Dr. Baker has a Bachelor of Science degree from Howard University in Washington, D.C.; a Master of Divinity degree from Eden Theological Seminary in St. Louis, MO; and her Doctorate of Ministry in Preaching degree from Aquinas Institute of Theology St. Louis, MO. Dietra is mother to son Cornell A. (Deuce) Baker II.