2025 National Children's and Youth Ministry Conference: Full Schedule

8:30am CST

Pre-Conference Registration

Monday January 6, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am CST

Lincoln Ballroom Foyer

Monday January 6, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am CST
Lincoln Ballroom Foyer

Pre-Conference

9:00am CST

BURN - The Compelling Communicator Seminar

Monday January 6, 2025 9:00am - 3:30pm CST

Lantana II

Come join seminar leader, Jeff Walling and a team of speakers for a free day of inspiration & coaching on preaching to today's teens & adults. Lunch is included!

Speakers

Jeff Walling

Monday January 6, 2025 9:00am - 3:30pm CST
Lantana II

Pre-Conference

9:00am CST

Marriage Workshop

Monday January 6, 2025 9:00am - 3:30pm CST

Lantana III

Speakers

Lauren Mitchell

Monday January 6, 2025 9:00am - 3:30pm CST
Lantana III

Pre-Conference

9:00am CST

Rhythms of Ministry

Monday January 6, 2025 9:00am - 3:30pm CST

Lantana I

In student ministry, establishing a healthy rhythm and routine is crucial for fostering an environment where spiritual growth and learning can flourish for our students. This rhythm not only helps in maintaining engagement but also in making spiritual connections and fostering a sense of belonging. But this isn't just true for our students!
The vitality of a student ministry is inherently linked to the spiritual well-being of the student minister. A spiritually healthy student minister, who models self-care and effective time management, is better equipped to lead with energy, empathy, and clarity. To have longevity in Student Ministry, you have to be focused on more than just the latest trends & Gen Z phrases. You have to be focused on taking care of your own spiritual health. The overall health of the ministry is a direct reflection of the minister's own wellness, emphasizing the importance of nurturing first the personal relationship with Jesus and His Kingdom. Out of this overflow, we will be able to cultivate a thriving, impactful student ministry for our teens.

Speakers

Josh Jones

Student Minister & Executive Minister, Littleton Church of Christ

Josh has been in Student Ministry for over 20 years, almost all of those in the Denver, CO area. He has an extensive bobblehead collection and once won a Saved by the Bell Trivia contest. Josh has experienced some real joys in Student Ministry, as well as struggled through some really... Read More →

Monday January 6, 2025 9:00am - 3:30pm CST
Lantana I

Pre-Conference

2:00pm CST

Registration

Monday January 6, 2025 2:00pm - 9:00pm CST

Lincoln Ballroom Foyer

Monday January 6, 2025 2:00pm - 9:00pm CST
Lincoln Ballroom Foyer

General

6:00pm CST

Exibit Hall Grand Opening

Monday January 6, 2025 6:00pm - 8:00pm CST

Lincoln Ballroom Foyer

Monday January 6, 2025 6:00pm - 8:00pm CST
Lincoln Ballroom Foyer

Main Event

6:30pm CST

NCYM 101

Monday January 6, 2025 6:30pm - 7:30pm CST

Topaz

Intro to all things NCYM.

Speakers

Kevin Knight

Youth and Family Minister, Eastside Church of Christ

I have been in full time ministry since ’99, with 6 years of volunteer ministry prior to that. I have worked in youth ministry, campus ministry, youth and family ministries, pulpit ministry and church planting ministry. I have been married to my wife Kris for 30 years and we have... Read More →

Molly Steele

Kids' Minister, Hendersonville Church of Christ

Monday January 6, 2025 6:30pm - 7:30pm CST
Topaz

Class

7:30pm CST

Worship & Keynote

Monday January 6, 2025 7:30pm - 9:30pm CST

Lincoln Ballroom

"ACT"

Speakers

Darwin Mason Jr.

Senior Minister, Hillsboro Church of Christ

Dr. Darwin L. Mason, Jr. is a servant leader and the minister at the Hillsboro Church of Christ in Nashville, TN. Dr. Mason holds a B.A. in music vocal performance and psychology from Fisk University, an M.Ed. in administration and supervision from Tennessee State University, and... Read More →

Sean Algaier

Campus Minister, York University

I am a husband to Misty and father to 5, Greysen Ella Jillian Joshua Jeremiah. I have previously worked in Youth Ministry as the Youth Minister at Jenks c of C in Jenks Oklahoma and was also a vocalist in the acappella singing group Watershed Worship. I had a brief stint on a reality... Read More →

Stephen Maxwell

Worship Minister, Memorial Road church of Christ

I have been leading worship in churches for almost 40 years. Music ministry is vital in children and youth ministry and I've had the opportunity to teach and lead in many student ministry contexts. I currently lead worship for the Memorial Road church of Christ in Edmond, Oklahom... Read More →

Monday January 6, 2025 7:30pm - 9:30pm CST
Lincoln Ballroom

Main Event

9:30pm CST

1-2 Years Ministry - Community Group

Monday January 6, 2025 9:30pm - 10:30pm CST

Lantana II

Let's gather and create community among youth and children's ministers who have just started and are in year one or two!

Speakers

Laura Lathrop

Children & Family Minister, Northwest Church of Christ

Laura's first ministry is at home to her husband Evan and boys Henry (8) and Oliver (11). She has been in Children's Ministry for 12 years. Several years ago at Northwest Church of Christ (OKC), her title was changed to Family Minister to better describe the work she was doing with... Read More →

Nathan McBroom

Youth Minister, Northwest Church of Christ

Husband of one. Father of four. Youth Minister of many.14+ years of marriage.11+ years of fatherhood.17+ years of youth ministry. 9+ years at Northwest Church of Christ in OKC.

Monday January 6, 2025 9:30pm - 10:30pm CST
Lantana II

Community

9:30pm CST

16+ Years Ministry - Community Group

Monday January 6, 2025 9:30pm - 10:30pm CST

Topaz

Speakers

Tammy Beck

Children’s Minister, Central Church of Christ

I’ve been married to Brian Beck for 36 years and we have worked with the Central Church for the last 30 years. I have been the children’s minister for the last 18 of those years. During that time, we raised 6 wonderful children. God has blessed us immensely.

David Harrelson

Youth Minister, University Community Church

Started full time youth minister in 1983 and have never looked back. (41 years) I have 3 kids all married, 8 grandkids and a wonderful wife of 43 years.

Monday January 6, 2025 9:30pm - 10:30pm CST
Topaz

Community

9:30pm CST

3-6 Years Ministry - Community Group

Monday January 6, 2025 9:30pm - 10:30pm CST

Lantana I

Speakers

Vincent Nieves

Children's Minister, Belton Church of Christ

Vince joined The Belton CoC staff in February 2018. Vince grew up in Haslet, Texas, a small suburb of north Fort Worth. He attended the Heritage Church of Christ, where his passion for ministry began. His desire is to help build a foundation of faith in our youngest Christ-followers... Read More →

Bruce Beaver

Youth Minister, Belton Church of Christ

Bruce Beaver is the Youth & Family Minister at Belton Church of Christ in Belton, Texas. He has served in youth ministry since 2001, working with three different congregations and has been at Belton since 2017. He has a Master of Science in Digital Media and enjoys utilizing his creativity... Read More →

Monday January 6, 2025 9:30pm - 10:30pm CST
Lantana I

Community

9:30pm CST

7-15 Years Ministry - Community Group

Monday January 6, 2025 9:30pm - 10:30pm CST

Lantana III

Speakers

Robert Oglesby

Professor, Abilene Christian University

20 years in ministry. Teaching youth and family ministry for over 20 years and consult with churches frequently

Jennifer Schroeder

Monday January 6, 2025 9:30pm - 10:30pm CST
Lantana III

Community

9:30pm CST

College - Community Group

Monday January 6, 2025 9:30pm - 10:30pm CST

Onyx

Speakers

Shannon Rains

Associate Professor of Children's Ministry, Lubbock Christian University

Benjamin Treme

Youth Minister, Bentonville Church of Chrisf

My name is Benjamin Treme and I am one of the youth ministers at the Bentonville Church of Christ in Northwest Arkansas! I am blessed with my beautiful wife (Abbie) and 3 beautiful children (Baylor + Layton + Mylie). I am currently beginning year 6 of full time youth ministry and... Read More →

Monday January 6, 2025 9:30pm - 10:30pm CST
Onyx

Community

10:30pm CST

Covenant Groups (On Your Own)

Monday January 6, 2025 10:30pm - 11:30pm CST

TBA

Monday January 6, 2025 10:30pm - 11:30pm CST
TBA

Community

8:30am CST

Coffee Bar and Exhibitors

Tuesday January 7, 2025 8:30am - 10:00pm CST

Lincoln Ballroom Foyer

Tuesday January 7, 2025 8:30am - 10:00pm CST
Lincoln Ballroom Foyer

General

8:45am CST

Morning Devotional

Tuesday January 7, 2025 8:45am - 9:45am CST

Lantana I

Speakers

Rick Atchley

Preacher, The Hills Church

46 years in preaching ministry, 35 at The Hills

Tuesday January 7, 2025 8:45am - 9:45am CST
Lantana I

Class

10:00am CST

Know Before You Go

Tuesday January 7, 2025 10:00am - 11:00am CST

Lincoln 7/8

Speakers

David Fraze

Professor, Lubbock Christian University

David Fraze (D.Min., Fuller Theological seminary) Assistant Professor and Endowed Chair of the Youth and Family Ministry Program(www.lcu.edu) David has been in student ministry and has worked with students and families for over 35 years. David is a popular speaker at Youth Events... Read More →

Shannon Rains

Associate Professor of Children's Ministry, Lubbock Christian University

Tuesday January 7, 2025 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Lincoln 7/8

Main Event

11:00am CST

Aging in Ministry & Staying Relational

Tuesday January 7, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Quartz

I could give you an impressive list of things I’m bad at. Truly, I’m awful at some stuff.
BUT, I feel as capable as any human on planet earth at plopping down at a table of students from anywhere on planet earth [I’ve actually tried in ALOT of countries] and get them talking/engaged.
Engaging students face to face.
I asked for a computer sabbatical at the tail end of Covid. And I haven’t touched one since May 2020. I use my iPad an hour a week or less for worship slides/chapel.
Other than that I attempt to engage kids all day face to face with no screen.

Let’s talk about engaging kids where they are- and using your unique personality and style to creatively engage and build diverse communities.

Speakers

Aubrey Wood

Youth Minister, East Brainerd Church of Christ

I’ve been a full time youth minister [15 years] and then a campus minister at a school. [last five years] I’m jumping BACK into youth ministry! Aubrey is funny, strange and creative. He recently asked his upperclassman students to describe “his vibe” to people that didn’t... Read More →

Tuesday January 7, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Quartz

Class

11:00am CST

AI, Technology & Children's Ministry

Tuesday January 7, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Onyx

In this session we will discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of using AI and other technologies in our ministries. How can we utilize these for the Kingdom and what are some pitfalls we should avoid?

Speakers

Vincent Nieves

Children's Minister, Belton Church of Christ

Tuesday January 7, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Onyx

Class

11:00am CST

NextGen Then to Now

Tuesday January 7, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Lantana II

When we think of NextGen Ministry, it sometimes sounds like the new flashy term for church ministry to kids and students. But we would like to offer a new way that is actually an old way of conceptualizing this term into your local body. Join us as we present a NextGen discipleship strategy that will lead to formative faith in your church.

Speakers

Nathan Strickland

Youth Minister, McKnight Crossings Church of Christ

Hi there! My name is Nathan, and I started my Youth Ministry journey in October 2022. I attended Oklahoma State University for my Bachelor's degree in Marketing, and Maryville University in St. Louis for my Master's degree in Data Analytics. Lots of ministry preparation there, am... Read More →

Jeremiah Haywood

NextGen Family Discipleship Minister, The Hills Church

Jeremiah Haywood is the NextGen Family Disciple Minister at The Hills in Dallas, TX. He has served in children’s ministry for five years and is passionate about being called into ministry—and more specifically NextGen ministry. Jeremiah studied child development and early childhood... Read More →

Tuesday January 7, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Lantana II

Class

11:00am CST

Protecting Your Joy pt 1

Tuesday January 7, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Lantana I

Joy is a gift from God. Joy is a choice. If we lose our joy, we lose our witness. In this 2-part class we will explore what the Bible has to say about joy, as well as how scientific research can be helpful in protecting and promoting the joy God has placed in us. We hope you leave this class with greater knowledge about joy, but even more than that, with practical ways to cultivate joy in your life and ministry.

Speakers

Josh Ross

Lead Minister, Sycamore View Church of Christ

Josh Ross is the Lead Minister at Sycamore View Church in Memphis, TN. He is married to Kayci, and they have two boys, Truitt and Noah. He is the author of a few books, most recently Coreology: Six Principles for Navigating an Election Season without Losing Your Witness. He loves... Read More →

Tuesday January 7, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Lantana I

Class

11:00am CST

Well-Rounded: Strategies for a balanced Youth Ministry

Tuesday January 7, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Lantana III

Creating a youth ministry that is both effective and balanced can be challenging. To rise to the challenge, we need to consistently reevaluate what we are doing. During our time together, you'll get an opportunity to examine what you're currently doing, observe deficiencies, cultivate ideas of how to move forward, and begin to develop an approach to have a more well-rounded ministry.

Speakers

Bruce Beaver

Youth Minister, Belton Church of Christ

Tuesday January 7, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Lantana III

Class, Youth Ministry

11:00am CST

What Are They Saying About You? (for men and women)

Tuesday January 7, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Topaz

Speakers

Becky Burroughs

Outreach/Hospitality Minister, Highland Oaks Church of Christ

Becky Burroughs has served in a variety of leadership positions for over 50 years, as a small business owner, a high school principal at Dallas Christian School, and for the past 17 years, a minister at the Highland Oaks Church of Christ in Dallas, where she has held a variety of... Read More →

Tuesday January 7, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Topaz

Class

2:00pm CST

Beautiful Interference: Discovering how to love God will all your heart, soul, mind, and strength

Tuesday January 7, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST

Lantana III

Jesus’ words have been somewhat elusive to me over my Christian journey. When I say “elusive”, I don’t mean that I do not understand what I’m supposed to do…but what exactly does Jesus want me to do. As you read through three of the Gospels in the New Testament, you find the followers of Jesus, Matthew, Mark, and Luke include this interaction in their story-telling of the life of the Son of God. I want to focus on Mark’s rendition of Jesus teaching because Mark seems to be more inclusive on what Jesus is calling us to live out in our own lives. Mark records Jesus’ spoken words for us in Mark 12:29-31.
As his creation, we are called to give him everything that we can in our life. According to Mark’s recording of Jesus’ spoken words that should include our heart, our soul, our mind, and our strength. According to Jesus’ spoken words, it is not an option…we “must” do it if we want to be called disciples of the King of kings.
Living a loving lifestyle doesn’t stop with just loving on God. It also means I must love other human beings—no matter what—I love people exactly as much as I love myself, no exceptions

Speakers

Tim Hall

Senior & Preaching Minister, Legacy Church of Christ

After 20 years in youth ministry, God signaled it was time to move into a preaching role in Kingdom work. I've been preaching for 11 years, married for 33 years and have 2 adult sons. I'm an Air Force veteran and worked 11 years in retail before going into ministry. I love connecting... Read More →

Tuesday January 7, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Lantana III

Class

2:00pm CST

Internships for Interns by an Intern

Tuesday January 7, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST

Quartz

This is a class (with a panel) designed for the upcoming college-age and young adults who are interested in ministry and need a place to start. Being in college is one of the great places to learn BUT having a summer internship is where it is at! We will be discussing a few key points in how to find an internship, what it typically looks like, and what it looks like leaving and going back to school OR into an actual ministry position.

Speakers

Shelbee Fraze

Intern - Student at Lubbock Cristian University, Intern / Student at Lubbock Christian University

Shelbee Fraze, currently a Student (Junior) at Lubbock Christian University, Being a student there has been prepping her for hands on work as an Intern for churches. She has worked for Greenlawn Church of Christ in Lubbock, Texas and Grapevine Church of Christ in Grapevine, Texas... Read More →

Tuesday January 7, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Quartz

Class

2:00pm CST

Kids and Parents Together In The Word

Tuesday January 7, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST

Onyx

Looking for ways to get families more involved in opening their Bible together? This sessions will explore a 10 year old program we are using that specifically focuses on helping parents feel comfortable about family Bible study.

We will share the successes and failures of this, as we as some other ideas we are trying to help families engage with scripture.

Speakers

Richard Shough

Executive Minister, MacArthur Park Church of Christ

Richard spent nearly 25 years in Youth Ministry and was the director of CampOC camps for more than 30 years. He has served as the Youth & Family Minister, Church Life Minister and now the Executive Minister at the MacArthur Park Church of Christ in San Antonio for 29 years. Even though... Read More →

Tuesday January 7, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Onyx

Class, Children's Ministry

2:00pm CST

Landmines in Ministry (for men and women)

Tuesday January 7, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST

Topaz

Are you pretty good at communicating with kids and people your age? How do you develop the skills to communicate with their parents and church leadership in a way that builds those relationships, too?

Speakers

Becky Burroughs

Outreach/Hospitality Minister, Highland Oaks Church of Christ

Tuesday January 7, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Topaz

Class

2:00pm CST

Spiritual Disciplines That Might Save Your Life

Tuesday January 7, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST

Lantana I

The demands of ministry tempt us toward rushing and noise, making it hard to slow down and give attention to God, not to mention our own soul’s needs. During this class we will practice a group of spiritual disciplines that put us in a position to receive God’s grace, sense God’s presence, and they might even save our lives.

Speakers

Houston Heflin

Professor, Abilene Christian University

Houston Heflin is a professor in the Bible department at Abilene Christian University (ACU) in Abilene, Texas where he teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses on spiritual formation and church ministry. Before his 16 years of teaching at ACU he spent 12 years in church ministry... Read More →

Tuesday January 7, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Lantana I

Class

2:00pm CST

Textual Class 1

Tuesday January 7, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST

Lincoln 6

Speakers

Chris Seidman

Tuesday January 7, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Lincoln 6

Class

2:00pm CST

The Gospel According to ChatGPT: Next-Level AI for Your Ministry

Tuesday January 7, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST

Lantana II

Calling all youth ministers, children's ministers, and ministry-minded misfits! Ready to unlock the divine secrets of artificial intelligence and take your student ministry to the next level? Join us for a 50-minute crash course in wielding the awesome (and sometimes amusing) power of AI! From crafting jaw-dropping graphics that make your PowerPoint slides sing to effortlessly organizing epic youth events that make you look like a planning ninja—this class has got it all.

We'll explore the coolest AI models out there, compare free and paid versions (because who doesn’t love a good deal?), and share pro tips on using these digital disciples to save time, reduce stress, and boost creativity in your ministry. We might even throw in some live demos and a Q&A to see how your peers are already making AI their new best friend.

Bring your curiosity, leave with some holy hacks—and maybe even a few new AI tricks up your sleeve!

*Session Description generated by ChatGPT.

Speakers

Alan Middleton

Youth Minister, Eastridge Church of Christ

Hey there! I'm Alan, and I'm stoked to be your youth minister for this conference. I've been serving at Eastridge Church of Christ in Rockwall, TX for the past 6 years, and I've been in youth ministry for a total of 11 years. I attended Oklahoma Christian University where I received... Read More →

Rick Grace

Youth Minister, League Street Church of Christ

Rick Grace is a Nashville, TN native, Harding graduate, and a Northeast Texas youth minister. He and his wife, Jessica (who is an elementary reading teacher), have two kids, three dogs, one cat, and lots of books. Outside of ministry (well probably inside, too), Rick enjoys corny... Read More →

Tuesday January 7, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Lantana II

Class

3:30pm CST

Accessible Ministry: How to successfully welcome those with Special Needs into your Ministry

Tuesday January 7, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST

Lantana II

Come and hear some practical tips, insights, strategies, and stories about how your children’s or youth ministry can become a place where kids of all abilities belong!

Speakers

Hanna Thrasher

Special Needs Minister, Highland Church of Christ

Hanna Thrasher is a passionate advocate for inclusivity within churches. Holding a degree in special education from Harding University, Hanna combines academic expertise with real-life experience. Hanna worked as a youth minister for almost six years before assuming the role of Special... Read More →

Tuesday January 7, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Lantana II

Class

3:30pm CST

Event Swap

Tuesday January 7, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST

Onyx

In Kids' Ministry, we don't want to reinvent the wheel. We learn best from each other. Come hear about everyone's best (and worst) ideas and come share some of yours!

Speakers

Molly Steele

Kids' Minister, Hendersonville Church of Christ

Tuesday January 7, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Onyx

Class

3:30pm CST

How to Minister When Your Son is Same-Sex Attracted

Tuesday January 7, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST

Lantana III

Since 2010, we have been actively involved in helping families journey with their children who are same-sex attracted because it was the year our son came out. Our journey can give insight on what to do/not do with families in a church setting who are desiring a relationship with their child yet unsure how to navigate in the same-sex attracted world.

Speakers

Tim Hall

Senior & Preaching Minister, Legacy Church of Christ

Tuesday January 7, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Lantana III

Class

3:30pm CST

Keeping 'em Out of Jail / Keeping 'em Out of Hell (Lessons I Learned Transitioning From Lawyer to Student Minister)

Tuesday January 7, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST

Quartz

My journey from Lawyer to Student Minister is characterized by love, sweat and tears (and answering my favorite question of all time -- "do you feel like you wasted your time in law school now that you are JUST a student minister?") The lessons I've learned and continue to learn from my former line of work are part of my testimony! If you're happy and you know it, come join me as I share encouragement gleaned from a path to ministry that is anything but normal!

Speakers

Sammie Young

Student Minister, Fairfax Church of Christ

Sammie started attending the Fairfax Church of Christ as a student in the late 80’s. Although he just passed 10 years of serving as a full time student minister, he considers his journey in ministry to be just beginning! Sammie graduated from the University of Virginia, both from... Read More →

Tuesday January 7, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Quartz

Class

3:30pm CST

Ministry as a New or Second Career - Flattening the Steep Learning Curve

Tuesday January 7, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST

Topaz

Maybe you have landed your first job in ministry, or maybe you have entered ministry as a second career. In some ways your education or previous career prepared you. In other ways, it did not. Let's explore how ministry is different from other jobs and how you can set yourself up for success.

Speakers

Becky Burroughs

Outreach/Hospitality Minister, Highland Oaks Church of Christ

Tuesday January 7, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Topaz

Class

3:30pm CST

Spiritual Disciplines That Might Save Someone Else’s Life

Tuesday January 7, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST

Lantana I

If we take the second greatest commandment seriously, we have to ask, am I willing to train in spiritual disciplines for the sake of my neighbor? Would I pursue spiritual growth to love my neighbor better? During this class we will practice a group of spiritual disciplines that not only shape us, they also equip us to love others, and they might even save someone’s life.

Speakers

Houston Heflin

Professor, Abilene Christian University

Tuesday January 7, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Lantana I

Class

3:30pm CST

Textual Class 2

Tuesday January 7, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST

Lincoln 6

Speakers

Chris Seidman

Tuesday January 7, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Lincoln 6

Class

7:30pm CST

Worship & Keynote

Tuesday January 7, 2025 7:30pm - 9:30pm CST

Lincoln Ballroom

Speakers

Beverly Ross

Executive Director, Wise County Christian Counseling

Beverly Ross, M.A., LPC-S, is the Founder and Executive Director for Wise County Christian Counseling. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor. Beverly is a certified facilitator in the life-changing curriculum based on the research of Dr. Brené Brown. She uses these... Read More →

Josh Ross

Lead Minister, Sycamore View Church of Christ

Sean Algaier

Campus Minister, York University

Stephen Maxwell

Worship Minister, Memorial Road church of Christ

Tuesday January 7, 2025 7:30pm - 9:30pm CST
Lincoln Ballroom

Main Event

9:30pm CST

Covenant Groups (On Your Own)

Tuesday January 7, 2025 9:30pm - 11:00pm CST

TBA

Tuesday January 7, 2025 9:30pm - 11:00pm CST
TBA

Community

8:30am CST

Coffee Bar and Exhibitors

Wednesday January 8, 2025 8:30am - 10:00pm CST

Lincoln Ballroom Foyer

Wednesday January 8, 2025 8:30am - 10:00pm CST
Lincoln Ballroom Foyer

General

8:45am CST

Morning Devotional

Wednesday January 8, 2025 8:45am - 9:45am CST

Lantana I

Speakers

Rick Atchley

Preacher, The Hills Church

46 years in preaching ministry, 35 at The Hills

Wednesday January 8, 2025 8:45am - 9:45am CST
Lantana I

Class

10:00am CST

Know Before You Go

Wednesday January 8, 2025 10:00am - 11:00am CST

Lincoln 7/8

Speakers

David Fraze

Professor, Lubbock Christian University

Shannon Rains

Associate Professor of Children's Ministry, Lubbock Christian University

Wednesday January 8, 2025 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Lincoln 7/8

Main Event

11:00am CST

40-Year Youth Ministry

Wednesday January 8, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Lantana II

We often hear about how the world today is unlike anything we have ever experienced, making teen discipleship more difficult than ever. While our present time in history is certainly unique, when it comes to youth ministry, there are some things that never change. Join Jaron Brandt and Edd Eason as they talk about their experiences leading youth groups 40 years apart in time and share what they have learned from one another through their current ministry partnership as friends 40 years apart in age.

Speakers

Jaron Brandt

Student Minister, Care Church

Jaron has worked with middle school and high school students since 2016 when he was hired to be the Student Minister at Care Church in Richardson, TX. Originally from San Antonio, Jaron graduated from Oklahoma Christian University where he earned a Bachelors in Biblical Studies and... Read More →

Edd Eason

Shepherd, Care Church

Edd Eason served as Youth & Family Minister from 1978 to 1992 at Care Church in Richardson, TX where he currently serves as a Shepherd. Edd is a proud graduate of both Harding University (1974) and Texas Woman's University (1989). Edd was one of the youth ministers who helped start... Read More →

Wednesday January 8, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Lantana II

Class

11:00am CST

Intergenerational Ministry Workshop

Wednesday January 8, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Onyx

There are two aspects of Intergenerational Ministry--during worship and outside of worship. We will discuss the purpose and benefits of Intergenerational Ministry and share ideas of how to implement it.

Speakers

Laura Lathrop

Children & Family Minister, Northwest Church of Christ

Wednesday January 8, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Onyx

Class

11:00am CST

Protecting Your Joy pt2

Wednesday January 8, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Lantana I

Speakers

Josh Ross

Lead Minister, Sycamore View Church of Christ

Wednesday January 8, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Lantana I

Class

11:00am CST

Qualifying the Called: Navigating Your First 2 Years in Youth Ministry

Wednesday January 8, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Quartz

Maybe you had a passion or a calling for Youth Ministry but don't feel quite qualified for it (like myself). Maybe you've just started in ministry and you're questioning everything you do and doubting yourself, wondering if you can really do this. But if I know anything about our God, it's that He doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called. If you've read my bio, you can probably put 2 and 2 together to figure out that I didn't have full-time ministry in mind for my life. But by the grace of God, I'm still in it and going strong! I want to share with you what has helped me get through my first 2 years in Youth Ministry, especially when I didn't plan to be in it and didn't go to school for it -- while in the midst of fear and doubt. There is no "1 size fits all" model for a successful Youth Ministry, but I believe the items discussed in this session will be beneficial for those of you just getting started. So whether you went to a Christian University and studied Bible/Ministry, or you went into a different field like me and came into ministry with little experience and the odds against you, I pray that this session will bless you as you navigate your first couple of years in Youth Ministry.

Speakers

Nathan Strickland

Youth Minister, McKnight Crossings Church of Christ

Wednesday January 8, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Quartz

Class

11:00am CST

Supporting Parents, Supporting Teens: A Holistic Approach to Youth Ministry

Wednesday January 8, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Lantana III

Unlock the full potential of your youth ministry by fostering strong, supportive relationships with the parents of your teens. Learn how to empower parents with the tools they need to nurture their teens' faith journeys, while creating a cohesive and dynamic support system. Through practical tips, real-life examples, and interactive discussions, this class will equip you with the skills to build a thriving community where both parents and teens feel valued, understood, and inspired. Join us and transform your youth ministry into a holistic haven of support and spiritual growth!

Speakers

Beau Davis

Executive Minister, Singing Oaks Church of Christ

Beau Davis, Executive Minister at Singing Oaks Church of Christ, CEO and co-owner of Olive Branch Family Therapy, holds a Master’s degree in Marriage & Family Therapy, a Master of Arts in Christian Ministry and Bachelor of Science in Youth and Family from Abilene Christian University... Read More →

Wednesday January 8, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Lantana III

Class

11:00am CST

The Child in Our Midst: What Does It Mean to Receive Children?

Wednesday January 8, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Topaz

As the people of God seek to receive children as directed by Jesus, we have to begin by asking some important questions. What is their place in the church? How do they understand and experience God? How can we learn with and from them as we seek to become like Jesus? What gets in the way of the call to receive children as Jesus did? We will explore these questions together and think of ways that the answers to these questions might guide our practices in our communities of faith.

Speakers

Dana Kennamer

Abilene Christian University, Highland Church of Christ

Dana Kennamer, Ph.D. serves as the Associate Dean of the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Abilene Christian University where she teaches courses in early childhood education and children's ministry. Dana also serves on the board of the Children's Spirituality Summit... Read More →

Wednesday January 8, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Topaz

Class

11:00am CST

When It's a LOT: Practical Help for Ministry Wives

Wednesday January 8, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Lincoln 6

Kaley Ihfe serves as the Director of Lavish HOPE, a HOPE Network ministry which focuses on nurturing and encouraging the wives of ministers. She has served alongside her husband, Karl Ihfe, in ministry for 24 years first at University Avenue in Austin, TX in campus ministry and currently at Broadway Church of Christ in Lubbock, TX where Karl is the preaching minister. She has a B.S. in Communications, MEd in School Counseling, and MA in Christian Ministry from Abilene Christian University. Previously, she worked at the Volunteer Center as the Leadership Development Manager, at Pflugerville ISD as a middle school teacher and school counselor, and at Abilene Christian University as the Campus Activities Director. She also spent several years as a "stay at home" mom, working occasional temporary jobs to make ends meet. She and Karl have a son at the University of North Texas and a daughter at Lipscomb University.

Speakers

Kaley Ihfe

Director, Lavish HOPE

Women married to ministers often face a lot of expectations from the church and from themselves - IYKYK. Although we often face expectations to lead and be present, we also can feel like we are invisible sometimes - or we get more attention than we want. It's important to be grounded... Read More →

Wednesday January 8, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Lincoln 6

Class

2:00pm CST

Class

Wednesday January 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST

Lantana III

Speakers

Jeff Walling

Wednesday January 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Lantana III

Class

2:00pm CST

Healing Church Hurt

Wednesday January 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST

Lantana II

A hot button topic in church culture today is church hurt. It is a justification for why many are leaving the church and for why ministers are leaving ministry altogether. Church hurt stings more than so many other hurts because of the love and safety that is naturally expected to come from the bride of Christ. What if, instead of running, we chose to face that hurt head on? What if we chose healing and redemption instead of walking away? Sometimes we have no choice, but other times God just might be creating a way for us to experience Him in a way that we never have before.

Speakers

Casey Lankford

Preaching Minister, Cinco Ranch Church of Christ

Casey is the preaching minister and spiritual director at Cinco Ranch Church of Christ in the suburbs of Houston, Texas. Casey served in youth ministry through schools for two years and in traditional church youth ministry for five years. While he now serves as a preaching minister... Read More →

Wednesday January 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Lantana II

Class

2:00pm CST

Help for Difficult Issues

Wednesday January 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST

Onyx

Speakers

Beth Robinson

Wednesday January 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Onyx

Class

2:00pm CST

Living in the Story with Children

Wednesday January 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST

Topaz

The Bible calls us to pass on the stories of God to our children. They do not need to be forgotten. We hope for them to write these stories on their hearts and to be formed by them. And we want them to know that God's word is living and active. God can always reveal new things to us when we return to the stories we have heard and know. In fact, I often see things in the text I have noticed when living in the story to prepare for time with the children. How do we join children in this lifelong journey of knowing God as we share the stories that shape our lives? In this workshop we will ask questions about our practices and explore together if even small changes might draw children to join us in the story, equipping them to listen to what God might have to say. And in the process, the children can guide us to listen as well.

Speakers

Dana Kennamer

Abilene Christian University, Highland Church of Christ

Wednesday January 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Topaz

Class

2:00pm CST

Textual Class 3

Wednesday January 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST

Lincoln 6

Speakers

Chris Seidman

Wednesday January 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Lincoln 6

Class

2:00pm CST

The Nonverting Generation: Why Churches are Losing Their Young People and What We Can Do About It"

Wednesday January 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST

Lantana I

About 25% of Americans describe themselves "Nones" (no religious affiliation). About 75% of the Nones are what Stephen Bullivant has called "Nonverts," people raised in the church who have left it. Rates of "nonverting" are increasing with each generational cohort. The session will describe why churches are failing to keep their young people and strategies for helping reverse this trend.

Speakers

Richard Beck

Senior Fellow Landon Saunders Center for Joy and Human Flourishing, Abilene Christian University

Richard Beck (PhD) is Professor of Psychology and the Senior Fellow of the Landon Saunders Center of Joy and Human Flourishing at Abilene Christian University. Richard's most recent book is entitled The Shape of Joy: The Transformative Power of Moving Beyond Yourself.

Wednesday January 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Lantana I

Class

2:00pm CST

Visioneering Volunteers

Wednesday January 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST

Quartz

Having the wrong volunteer can be worse than not having any volunteers. Who you choose to fulfill the role of a volunteer is crucial to the health of a ministry. Your next best volunteer could be waiting for you to invite them to serve, but you would never know if you didn't ask.

Speakers

Joseph Mankin

Youth Minister, Hillsboro Church

Joseph Mankin has served as the youth minister at Hillsboro Church of Christ since 2006. He is the creative director for the National Children’s and Youth Ministry Conference and a graduate of Lipscomb University. For over a decade, Joseph has traveled to a variety of organizations... Read More →

Wednesday January 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CST
Quartz

Class

3:30pm CST

Building Up in the Let Down: Reframing Expectations

Wednesday January 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST

Quartz

Lower your expectations, especially for this class.

Have you ever had perfect attendance from you teens on Sundays, never had to cancel an event, always had ease in getting volunteers? If so, this isn’t the class for you. Many of us have high expectations for ourselves and our ministry and due to a number of circumstances, reality doesn’t always meet expectations which can equal disappointment. Those who attend shouldn’t look to defeat disappointment, but for how to redeem it.

Speakers

Blake Boggs

Student Minister, East Cobb Church of Christ

Blake, has been a Student Minister at East Cobb in Marietta, Georgia for over a year, but has been in Student Ministry for almost 6 years. He along with his wife Elizabeth and their dog Murf, love their city and their church. Blake is among the few who has seen both his favorite sports... Read More →

Wednesday January 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Quartz

Class

3:30pm CST

Burnout

Wednesday January 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST

Topaz

Speakers

Esther Moreno

Founder, Child’s Heart LLC

Esther Moreno, author of newly released, Children’s Ministry In Crisis, has dedicated her life to reaching the next generation for Christ. With over 20 years of Children’s Ministry experience across various churches and denominations, Esther has focused her efforts on effectively... Read More →

Wednesday January 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Topaz

Class

3:30pm CST

Creating a Ministry that Helps Others Deal with Church Hurt

Wednesday January 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST

Lantana II

Speakers

Casey Lankford

Preaching Minister, Cinco Ranch Church of Christ

Wednesday January 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Lantana II

Class

3:30pm CST

Leaning into ministry

Wednesday January 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST

Lantana III

Finding a way to lean into ministry for a sustainable form for you and your family. My experience of starting fresh and putting what I knew to be healthy into practice. The Good and the Bad.

Speakers

Aaron partlow

Youth minister, Pine Tree Church of Chrisr

Benn a youth minister for 13 years, 2 1/2 years in Washington state, 7 1/2 in Topeka Kansas, now 4 years in Longview Texas.

Wednesday January 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Lantana III

Class

3:30pm CST

Mattering: Pastoral Care for the Anxious Generation

Wednesday January 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST

Lantana I

Given the widespread mental health issues among young people, issues affected by social media and "toxic achievement culture," the session will describe the role of "mattering" in the pastoral care for the Gen Z and Alpha generations.

Speakers

Richard Beck

Senior Fellow Landon Saunders Center for Joy and Human Flourishing, Abilene Christian University

Wednesday January 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Lantana I

Class

3:30pm CST

Textual Class 4

Wednesday January 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST

Lincoln 6

Speakers

Chris Seidman

Wednesday January 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Lincoln 6

Class

7:30pm CST

Worship & Keynote

Wednesday January 8, 2025 7:30pm - 9:30pm CST

Lincoln Ballroom

Walking with Jesus in a Sprinting World - In a culture whose pace often feels fast, predetermined, and impossible to slow down, what would it look like to take Jesus up on his offer to walk freely and lightly together through this world? We will explore living fully on mission, with Jesus setting the pace.

Speakers

Sarah Brooks

member / hosting team / class teacher, The Hills Church

Sarah Brooks is a speaker, storyteller, and community advocate who is passionate about sharing and growing in authentic faith, mentoring teenagers, and laughing regularly. By profession, she travels and speaks, making new friends at conferences and seminars nationwide. By passion... Read More →

Sean Algaier

Campus Minister, York University

Stephen Maxwell

Worship Minister, Memorial Road church of Christ

Wednesday January 8, 2025 7:30pm - 9:30pm CST
Lincoln Ballroom

Main Event

9:30pm CST

Covenant Groups (On Your Own)

Wednesday January 8, 2025 9:30pm - 11:00pm CST

TBA

Wednesday January 8, 2025 9:30pm - 11:00pm CST
TBA

Community

9:00am CST

Children's Ministry 101

Thursday January 9, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CST

Lantana II

Speakers

Esther Moreno

Founder, Child’s Heart LLC

Thursday January 9, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CST
Lantana II

Worskshop

9:00am CST

Games We Play

Thursday January 9, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CST

Lantana III

Over the past 25 years, Group Dynamix has been connecting people in fun ways, and now we would like to share that knowledge with you. Whether there are new members in your group or team or you're simply looking for new ways to have some fun, we will provide you with new tools for your toolbox. Don’t miss this workshop, which will help you connect like never before.

Speakers

Group Dynamix

Since 1998 our mission is to “Connect People in Fun Ways.” Our specialty is facilitating activities that improve relationships, increase collaboration and build team unity.

Thursday January 9, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CST
Lantana III

Worskshop

9:00am CST

Monday in the Life of a Teenager: 4 things students are looking for and how we can provide it for them

Thursday January 9, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CST

Lantana I

What do freshman, sophomores, juniors and seniors need? We take a look back at your won youth ministry experience to discover your journey and how it is similar (and maybe not so similar) to the students of today. Lots of discussion, interaction and hopefully some insights, too!

Speakers

Josh Griffin

JH Pastor, Mariners Church / Download Youth Ministry

Josh Griffin (@joshuagriffin) is one of the leading voices in youth ministry with 25+ years of experience in the trenches and is currently the junior high pastor at Mariners Church in Irvine, CA. He served for 13 years at Saddleback Church as the High School Pastor under the leadership... Read More →

Thursday January 9, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CST
Lantana I

Worskshop