This year's Clergy Laity Congress features impactful ministry panels and workshops designed to equip delegates with the tools, resources, and inspiration needed to strengthen parishes and foster thriving communities. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, gaining valuable insights and practical strategies to enhance their local ministries. The Congress aims to empower participants with a renewed sense of purpose and vision, ensuring the ongoing growth and vitality of their parishes and the broader Orthodox Christian community. Throughout the week, there are a wide number of topics being addressed in both Ministry Panels and Workshops.
Justin Heard
Justin Heard
Biography
A recent MTh student at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, Justin and his wife Blaise, who is also blind, now reside in Tennessee. Justin studied abroad in Tanzania and ministered to a school for the blind there. He taught Life Skills and Assistive Technology at a school for the blind in the U.S., and has served as an advocate for the blind locally and nationally.
Justin presented in a workshop entitled Disability as Icon: Framework for Understanding Who We Are at the 2023 OCAMPR Conference, and also offered a lecture on disability and inclusivity at the Maliotis Cultural Center in November 2023 entitled, Philoxenia: Welcoming People with Disabilities.