McKinney Center: Conversations That Matter

McKinney Center Announces Conversations That Matter

“Conversations that Matter” is a monthly on-line series from the McKinney Center. In each “Conversation” two local guests will explore their own culture and perspective, and talk to each other about what makes them unique, discover their similarities, and explore their differences. They will look at where their lives might intersect personally and in the community. The goal of each “Conversation that Matters” is for guests and participants to hear real stories, from real neighbors.

The fourth event in the series will take place over Zoom on Thursday, October 22 at 7 p.m. and will feature Pastor from Bethel Christian Church in Jonesborough, Vincent Dial, and Pastor of Jonesborough Presbyterian Church, Allen Huff. This conversation will be moderated by Katelyn Yarbrough and Michelle Treece.

Allen Huff has served as the pastor of Jonesborough Presbyterian Church [PC(USA)] for the last ten of his twenty-four years in ministry. Prior to moving to Jonesborough, Allen served two congregations in North Carolina. Before entering the ministry, he taught middle and high school social studies and English in Sylvania, GA. Allen and his wife, Marianne (both of them born and raised in GA) have two children, and as of October 11, one grandchild.

Vincent M. Dial is a native of Columbia, South Carolina. In January 1976 Vincent began his professional teaching career in the Johnson City School System serving as director of bands at many Johnson City schools and continued employment and music teacher work for many years until retirement in June 2007 after serving as Assistant Principal. In April 1994, Vincent acknowledged the internal move of the Holy Spirit to receive and accept without reservation his call to proclaim and to disciple others in the “Gospel of Jesus Christ” and from 1999 to present, has served as Senior Pastor at Bethel Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Jonesborough, Tennessee. He and his wife Mary reside in Johnson City, Tennessee. They have three children, and four grandchildren.

This monthly series is inspired by the Diversity & Equity Subcommittee at the McKinney Center’s desire to highlight the experiences of all voices in Washington County, Tennessee, with an intention to include marginalized groups. By showcasing these conversations, the Diversity & Inclusion committee hopes to open doors to new ideas and perspectives amongst our very own neighbors. Questions such as, “What was your experience in grade-school and how did that make you feel?” or, “have you experienced exclusion or racism?” For many of us the answers are different and unique. The McKinney Center believes it is time to talk about our experiences and share them.

There is value in uplifting these stories so that we may learn from one another. Then, after hearing from one another our moderators and guest conversationalists will give insight on how to move forward. Visit mckinneycenter.com to register for this events. For more information, please call the McKinney Center at 423.753.0562.