Keynote 1: A Good Church Argument?

Most churches avoid having arguments at all costs. But what if there was a gospel-centered way to disagree without dividing? What if we can have healthy and productive arguments that bring us closer together rather than tear us apart? What if God is inviting us into challenging conversations where there are no “sides" to be on, but there is one church family in which to belong?

Keynote 2: Discerning the Body

Fragile unity is based on uniformity of thought and practice. Strong unity—gospel unity—is built on the bedrock of mutual trust in the self-giving way of Jesus, shared in community. With God’s help, we really can nurture a Christ-centered unity that is guided by the Holy Spirit. This kind of unity is what can help hold our churches together in the midst of an ever-changing culture. 

When All God’s People Gather

Intergenerational experiences within a church are essential to the cultivation of a lifelong embedded faith. Not only does intergenerationality impact the way our children experience God but it leads to a beautiful expression of hospitality that becomes transformative for all. Leaders know that navigating across generations has its challenges, but also that doing so leads to discovering a deeper connection and mutual growth. With practical strategies for creating spaces where all generations can contribute, listen, and learn from one another, we tap into a richness and build a faith community that reflects the fullness of God's kingdom.

A Crash Course on Curriculum and Teaching Great Lessons

As ministry leaders, you are often called upon to teach. However, not all leaders are confident in their teaching ability. This session will equip you with strategies for creating great lessons—and in less time! Inspired by the teaching of Jesus, you’ll experience dozens of teaching methods to help students engage in their learning, with practical ideas you can implement in your next class or small group.

Helping Leaders Stay Connected and Calm in Anxious Times

An important leadership mantra goes like this: "Start with a conviction, stay connected, stay calm, and stay the course." When churches experience difficult seasons of change or even conflict, leaders must not only shepherd and pastor those under their care. They must also take care to avoid fatigue, burnout, or cynicism. But they can't successfully do this by disconnecting and isolating themselves in "executive session." How can leaders stay connected, stay calm and stay the course—even in the midst of change and turmoil? We'll discuss this and more in this breakout session. 

How Spiritual Formation Leads to Unity amongst Diversity in Church Decision Making

We all come to church with varying perspectives on what the vision and activity of the church needs to look like.  As a member of your church’s leadership team, it is key for you to live a life devoted to the Scriptures, prayer, and communion with Christ. This allows you to come to church not with your opinion, which is largely based on personal preference, but rather with a prayer-full Spirit-filled perspective. Come learn what this new perspective can mean for you and your congregation, and receive training on how to get yourself and your fellow leaders into this mindset.