BREAKOUT SESSION 2
1. Adrift in a Sea of Artificial Intelligence-
Making Sense of AI for Ministry
Trevor Sutton, St. Luke
Lansing, MI
Do you feel lost at sea when it comes to conversations about AI and emerging technology? When lost, it’s helpful to have a map! As we navigate the complicated realities of AI, we need to employ maps—mental models and visual frameworks—that can help us. Join Trevor Sutton as he shares AI maps to help make sense of the impact that AI has on the church, the world, and our own lives.
Session 2 – ROOM 111
2. What the Bible Says about Women Pastors
Steve Turnbull, Upper Arlington
Columbus, Ohio
If you love the Bible, you might have questions. “I do not permit a woman to teach or have authority over a man.” “Let the women keep silent in the churches.” That seems pretty clear. What does that mean for us today? What about the faithful, Spirit-led, Jesus-preaching women serving congregations in LCMC? This breakout will offer an overview of Bible passages relevant to the topic and explain the strong Biblical foundation for women and men serving equally in pastoral ministry.
Session 2 – HAX HALL
3. How to Find Peace in the Storm of Unforgiveness
David Peterson, www.davidpetersonbooks.com
Chesapeake, VA
Traumatic experiences can produce storms of unforgiveness. Waves of bitterness, resentment and anger threaten our physical, emotional and spiritual peace. Whether it’s forgiving ourselves or forgiving others, often we are told that we need to forgive. The real question is, “How can we forgive?” In this breakout session, we identify and validate traumatic experiences but also explore practical techniques that help us on our journey of forgiveness and genuine peace.
Session 2 – 118 & 120
4. The Power of Spiritual Space
Nate Guelzow, Multipli
Hendersonville, TN
Every Consider this: Most non-Christians want spiritual, not religious space. In other words, what if your non-Christian family and friends won’t go to your church but would gladly engage you in a spiritual conversation? Would you be prepared? In this breakout, Nate Guelzow will share 5 Principles of Creating Spiritual Space that you can leverage into spiritual conversation anywhere, anytime.
Sessions 2 – CHOIR ROOM
5. Rowing Together –
Joining the Global Mission Movement
Mike Wind, SONetwork
Miramar Beach, FL
Did you know that you don’t have to travel abroad for your congregation to participate in Global Mission? Join Mike Wind to learn how the LCMC Global Mission Fellowship helps congregations connect with trusted international pastors, missionaries, and mission organizations. From hosting speakers, sponsoring short-term missions, to building mission partnerships, come hear the real-world stories of mission engagement and explore how your church can row alongside the global Body of Christ!
Session 2 – ROOM 107A
6. Reaching GenZ
Yvette Moy, Crescent Project
Nashville, TN
GenZ (13 to 28 year-olds) are open to relationships that provide belonging while developing their identity in Jesus as they discover their purpose in life. The formative power of the church can be harnessed by intergenerational ministry with 45 to 60 year-olds sharing experiential wisdom and cultivating deep relationships. There can be in-person connections as well as digital discipleship.
Session 2 – HANDBELL ROOM
13. Staying Flexible in Ministry
Christian Huntley, LCMC
Bayport, MN
Having trouble filling the sign-up sheet again? Over time our ministry can drift out of alignment with the needs of our community or the gifts and needs of our congregation. Christian Huntley will explore how congregations can stay faithful and flexible by regularly evaluating their ministry and leaders. Evaluation can help congregations get unstuck and align people’s gifts congregational mission.
Session 2 – SANCTUARY
14. Brimming with Children
Cindy Bailey, Emmanuel
Inez, TX
Children are not just junior church members, but disciples who carry forward the Gospel today and for future generations. Want to see your congregation come alive with children who are active and involved? Join Cindy Bailey as she shares from her experience of a children’s ministry that is a blend of serious commitment and joyful play. You will learn methods that have been effective and explore how your congregation can tailor these ideas to fit your unique context.
Sessions 2 – YOUTH ROOM
15. Sharing Christ with others through Digital Communications
Diana Pimentel-Moreno, Our Saviour’s
Victoria, TX
Whether your church is large or small, has a big budget or none at all, Digital Communications is a great tool to help us share Christ with others. Effectively utilizing email, your website, and social media platforms will help you better connect with your members as well as reach a wider audience in your community and beyond. Join Diana Pimentel-Moreno for ideas on how you can share the message about your church and its mission through Digital Communications.
Session 2 – ROOM 107
16. Transforming Church Spaces for Mission-
Creative Ways to Engage Your Community
Tracee Swank, Church Doctor Ministries
Corunna, IN
CANCELLED DUE TO ILLNESS
PLEASE SELECT ANOTHER BREAKOUT
17. Always Swab the Poop Deck-
Maintaining Excellence in the Church Environment
Colton Johnson, Lightwell Insurance Advisors
Sherwood, AR
Our physical church environments tell a story. Did you know that 93% of communication is nonverbal and comes from our body language and tone, while only 7% arises out of our words? The same is true for our physical ministry space. Does your space clearly communicate a message that is consistent with your vision and values? Join Colton Johnson and Lightwell and explore how to create a ministry environment that sends the right message to members and guests alike.
Session 2 – ROOM 209 & 211
18. The Love Paradox
Jim Mariott, Concordia University Texas
Austin, TX
The Love Paradox by Karl Galik explores the relationship of loving God and your neighbor as yourself. As church workers, we often strive to love God and others but struggle to love ourselves as God loves us, leading to fear, frustration, and even burnout. The Love Paradox equips us to more effectively love ourselves and better manage anxiety, rest, restoration, and rejuvenation. Whether you are running on empty or looking to sustain your current pace, this is the breakout for you!
Session 2 – ROOM 213 & 215