The Course
We are living through an age of unraveling—of democracy, climate stability, economic security, and institutional trust. The impacts of civilizational decline are no longer distant or theoretical; they are showing up in our congregations, communities, and personal lives. As Conference Ministers in the United Church of Christ, you carry a sacred responsibility: to guide, resource, and accompany faith leaders through this long emergency with spiritual depth, strategic clarity, and courageous imagination.
This 4-session leadership cohort will offer a collaborative space for exploring the forces shaping this moment—from political authoritarianism to institutional breakdown—and for discerning the unique call of the Church within it. Through spiritual reflection, systems analysis, ritual, and practical strategy, we will work together to map collapse and emergence, cultivate grounded spiritual leadership, and build infrastructure for resilience, mutual aid, and moral courage across regions.
This is not a time for surface-level solutions. It is a time to lead with presence, to release what no longer serves, and to support one another in becoming the Church we are now called to be.
What you will learn
Topics Include:
- Understanding civilizational trends and collapse-aware leadership
- Spiritual leadership for grief, humility, and collective transformation
- Building infrastructure and collaboration for long-term resilience
- Discerning what must die—and what new roles are emerging for the Church
You’ll leave with:
- A shared map of collapse and emergence across UCC contexts
- Concrete strategies and frameworks for regional resilience and response
- New relationships with colleagues across conferences
- Greater spiritual grounding and discernment for the road ahead
Curriculum
Rev. Cameron Trimble
Cameron Trimble brings to the forefront a dynamic fusion of expertise as an accomplished author, respected national faith leader, seasoned pilot, and dedicated pastor. Immersed in the intersection of spiritual leadership and societal transformation, she has authored several books that probe into the complexities of faith in tumultuous times. Her commitment to guiding others is exemplified through her widely-received daily meditations, reaching a global audience seeking solace and strength amidst uncertainty.
Her vast experience in addressing change and resilience is echoed through her prolific contributions to various publications and her compelling presence as a keynote speaker at diverse conferences. Cameron's teaching is fueled by a passion for empowering leaders to navigate the treacherous terrain of collapse with foresight and compassion. As she pilots through the course "Leading In the Age of Collapse," her deep-seated knowledge and connection to the material inspire a powerful classroom atmosphere where critical thought and hopeful action converge.
Follow her writing at camerontrimble.substack.com
Rabbi Benjamin Ross
Rabbi Benjamin Ross is a passionate spiritual leader, educator, and community builder who believes deeply in the power of relationships to transform lives.
Ordained by Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion, he blends a love of Jewish tradition with a commitment to justice, creativity, and spiritual growth. Rabbi Ross is especially drawn to the work of cultivating powerful, purpose-driven leadership, and he designs learning experiences that invite vulnerability, courage, and connection.
With a background in both Jewish education and community organizing, he brings a dynamic and accessible approach to teaching—whether guiding students through sacred texts, leading retreats, or training emerging leaders. His teaching is shaped by a deep commitment to reflective practice and by his belief that each person carries a unique piece of the sacred.
When not teaching or leading, you might find him hiking in the woods, listening to podcasts, or hanging out with his two boys.
