POTLUCK EXPERIENCE 2025 WRAP-UP

More than 70 people took part in this year’s Illinois/Wisconsin District Potluck Experience, held March 29 at Peoria First Church of the Brethren using the 2025 district theme, “Are You Being Called?” 

Worship began the day, with Dana McNeil and Jocelyn Watkins leading music and Ellis Boughton sharing a time of reflection. That was followed by a keynote panel of Christy Waltersdorff, Mary Jessup, Ginger Florence, and Randall Westfall sharing their thoughts on calling and serving, with district executive Walt Wiltschek facilitating the discussion. 

The namesake potluck meal provided a highlight of the day, with long tables full of a variety of dishes, including many, many desserts (and a birthday cake for Ellis Boughton!). The fellowship hall also had space for donations to Peoria’s inspiring Mountain Mission Project—which was also the subject of one of the afternoon workshop choices. 

Other workshops included shared ministry team models in congregations (led by Mary Jessup and Kevin Kessler), engaging people with disabilities (led by Jeanne Davies and Jonathan Hively), and camps’ role in calling (led by Randall Westfall, Ray Knotts, and Harold Rose). A closing circle brought an end to the day. 

Many thanks to our excellent hosts at Peoria First, and to the members of this year’s Potluck Experience planning team: Leonard Matheny, Pat Ball, Christy Waltersdorff, and Pam Boughton. Watch for details down the road on the district’s Potluck Experience 2027!