Farmers Branch, Texas—Church of God Intercultural Ministries hosted its first, “Seat at the Table” conference, held at the Metro Church of God in Farmer’s Branch, Texas, just outside Dallas.
The October 9-10, 2025, event welcomed several nationalities and represented countries to the conference seeking, “to foster a space where voices from diverse cultural backgrounds are not only heard but valued and empowered,” according to Director of Intercultural Ministries Dr. Fijoy Johnson. “The title reflected the heart of our vision for the conference.”
The showcase of culture was showcased through the hosting of the event at the Metro Church and featured praise and worship teams from Hispanic and Indian congregations. Special music on Friday featured the world-renowned Voices of Lee from Lee University.
Delegates included church leaders, pastors, and lay leaders. Also in attendance were members of the board of Intercultural Ministries, including Chairman Ryan Sharp.
“The phrase, ‘Seat at the Table’ symbolizes inclusion, dignity, and shared leadership,” Johnson continued. “It’s about making sure that everyone regardless of ethnicity, language, or heritage has a place in shaping the future of our church and community. This conference was a call to action: to move beyond tokenism and toward genuine collaboration, where intercultural engagement becomes central to our mission, not peripheral.”
[1]Bishop Dale Bronner brought the word on Thursday night (click photo to enlarge)
Emphasizing the theme further were keynote speakers, Dr. Dale Bronner and Dr. Mark Williams.
Bronner is senior pastor of Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral in Atlanta, while Williams serves the Church of God as Third Assistant General Overseer.
“It is amazing that sometimes God calls the one who seems the least qualified and with weaknesses and failures,” Bronner said. “After he knows all that God still says, ‘I choose you.’”
Williams closed out the conference on Friday night with a powerful message about the Biblical character Mephibosheth.
[2]Dr. Mark Williams prayers during the altar call (click photo to enlarge)
“God does through us what we could never imagine,” Williams stated. “Despite his (Mephibosheth’s) condition, he was called to have a seat at the King’s table, a glorious demonstration of how God calls us to come and dine at the Master’s table.”
Johnson spoke of the future of the conference by stating, “I envision Seat at the Table not just as a one-time event, but as the beginning of a movement—one that expands into regional conferences across the country. Creating a space for everyone at the table is essential because it reflects the Kingdom of God: diverse, inclusive, and united. It’s about ensuring that every voice is welcomed, every culture is honored, and every leader is empowered to contribute to the mission.”