Jazz for the Journey is an opportunity for pastors, church musicians, worship leaders, musicians and jazz lovers to celebrate, share and explore the many possibilities of jazz as a contemporary faith language and creative vehicle for the Church’s ministry. Produced by Rev. Geoffrey Black and Rev. Cliff Aerie, the event will feature inspiring music, creative theological reflection and hands-on learning experiences expressing the powerful possibilities for incorporating jazz into the worship and mission outreach of local congregations. This event promotes an interfaith perspective from within a Christian community.

The Rev. Ozzie Smith, pastor of Covenant UCC, South Holland Illinois will be the event preacher and workshop leader. Ozzie, also a noted jazz saxophonist, will perform with the Oîkos Ensemble led by Cliff Aerie.

Jazz for the Journey program highlights include:
• Keynote Presentation (Geoffrey): “Why Jazz Belongs in the Church”
• MICA Presentation (Cliff): “Jazz, a Model for Ministry”
• Panel Discussion (Ozzie, Geoffrey & Cliff): “Jazz, A Unique Faith Language”
• Workshops include “How to Incorporate Jazz into Worship”, “Jazz: Music for the Movement”
and “Jazz Preaching at Covenant UCC”

The event begins with dinner on Friday, followed by the keynote address and an evening sacred jazz concert. It continues all day Saturday, concluding at 5:30 pm with a jazz service of worship. The $130 fee includes all presentations, workshops, three meals, concert and jazz worship. Attendees can receive continuing education credits. Persons seeking housing can contact the seminary for area options. For those unable to attend the full event, tickets can be purchased for $15 for the Friday evening keynote address and sacred jazz concert.

For additional information visit www.eden.edu or contact Cliff directly at cliff@worshipjazz.com.