Imagine what life in our greater Hartford region could be like if our religious institutions actually possessed the moral force to make it a more just and equitable place? For one year, CAC’s staff visited scores of clergy across fifteen towns to seek out such imagination.

The fruit of that exploratory work led to the formation of the Greater Hartford Sponsoring Committee. From their initial meeting in September 2016, this group of over 50 imams, rabbis, priests and ministers has been meeting regularly to build relationships of trust, discuss issues of common concern, and explore the architecture of building a faith-based organization in the region.

“When I moved here, I was very excited to learn about CAC,” stated Rev. Kari Nicewander of Immanuel Congregational Church, “this process has helped me learn, grow, and be a better pastor.” Rev. Amanda Nelson, pastor of Faith Lutheran Church, stated, “I can now see how change IS possible. The relationships I have gained will sustain me in ministry for a long time.”

If these clergy succeed in inviting their congregations into leadership together, the force for change that they unleash could change Hartford in major ways and introduce a new power to be reckoned with.