Whether or not you will be in Kansas City 2015, you can participate in the first ever Green Out scheduled for Wednesday, July 1. Here’s a Q&A with Hannah Heinzekehr, director of communications and marketing for Mennonite Church USA.

How can I participate?

It’s simple. Wear green—any shade—on Wednesday, July 1. Spice it up and make it your own however you wish.

Why do a Green Out at convention?

It’s a way to celebrate the unity of the church and the ways that all of us who are coming to KC2015 are part of this particular expression of the body of Christ—Mennonite Church USA. Really that’s true whether or not people choose to wear green, but this is a fun, visual way to celebrate our interconnectedness. There will be some really intense, important discussions taking place in the Delegate Assembly and even in worship sessions. But sometimes it’s good just to be reminded, even in lighthearted ways, that we are on this journey together.

Why green?

It is the theme color of the denomination. Plus, we’ve read reports that the color green makes people feel happy and calm, so that’s an added bonus.

Does this relate to the #WeAreMenno campaign?

We started the #WeAreMenno campaign to celebrate the ways that God is working through diverse communities all across the church, and to highlight the ways that we are enriched by being connected to one another. Glen Guyton came up with this idea in a similar vein.

How can I participate if I’m not going to Kansas City 2015?

The official convention hashtag is #MennoCon15 and any photos posted on social media can be tagged #MennoGram. It would be great if people all across the church—not just those at convention—would take Wednesday to wear green and to pray together for God’s spirit to be present at convention and across the denomination.