Workshops

Description

In the Church today, we need to make Scripture relevant and real in the lives of those in our congregations. Through an examination of the story of Nehemiah, participants will look at how we can bridge the gap from Scripture to our lives. Interpretation of God’s Word can lead us to personal and corporate life application. Through the development of an outline for a series of classes or sermons, we will explore how to apply scripture to our life using the book of Nehemiah as he experiences events common in the lives of believers: God’s call, prayer, leadership, service, controversary, opposition and other themes in the book of Nehemiah. The principles applied to this story can be used in other books in the Bible.

Workshop Leader: Renda Brinson

Renda Brinson, Certified CE has served in churches and the Presbytery, currently the Director of the Charlotte Resource Center, part of the Center for Excellence in Christian Education. Her greatest joy is teaching and leading others to a greater understanding of Scripture.

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Description

What do the Blues, Jazz, Soul, and Funk have in common? They all show up in Hip Hop! Join Bill Buchanan, (aka DJ5) on a journey through a century of music. We will explore how each of these genres has lessons to teach us in our current contexts of ministry and how Hip Hop specifically speaks to church leaders in the Reformed tradition.

Workshop Leader: Bill Buchanan

Bill Buchanan is the Executive Director of the non-profit ministry Youth Mission Co and an ordained pastor in the PCUSA. He lives in Asheville, NC where he loves going to hear live music.

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Description

Jesus said the greatest commandment was to love God with all our heart, soul,
mind, and strength. The next greatest commandment was to love our neighbor. But how
can we truly love our neighbor if we don’t know our neighbor? Beginning in 2020,
Foothills Presbytery started a more intentional and deeper conversation about Racism.
One of the results was a series of interviews with African American church
leaders—people in Foothills Presbytery telling their own stories.
            Workshop participants can taste the seven interviews and how they informed
program materials shared more broadly with congregations in the Presbytery.
Participants will learn how to create a courageous, authentic, and deep listening space.
Leaning on touchstones for intentional collaboration, we will spend time practicing being
fully present, speaking with intention, and listening deeply with respect. Participants will
engage in the practice of dwelling in the word, a simple but powerful way of listening to
God in Scripture that shapes our imagination.
            With a greater understanding of our neighbors, we can live in ways encouraging
deeper, more authentic relationships. Listening deeply to these stories, and having
intentional conversation around them, we open ourselves to a better understanding of
issues we often avoid. Christ calls us to love one another (John 13), to bear one
another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2), and to be compassionate to one another (Luke 6:31).
Engaging in courageous conversations helps us answer that call.

Workshop Leader: Pressley Cox

Rev. Pressley Cox serves as the Associate for Shared Mission and Ministry in Foothills Presbytery where she supports leaders, makes connections, and provides coaching among the congregations, the surrounding communities, and across our denomination. She is a graduate of Presbyterian College, Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary, and Columbia Theological Seminary.

Co-Leader: Debbie Foster

Rev. Deborah Foster serves as the Presbytery Leader and Stated Clerk for Foothills Presbytery. She is a graduate of Presbyterian College and Erskine Theological Seminary. Her passion is challenging communities and people to discover and align their strengths with their purpose, call and context.

Description

Do you find yourself needing to bridge the gap between available curricula and your church’s specific needs? Where do you begin? What’s essential to consider? How does your curriculum fit into your larger faith formation goals? How do you meet varying learning styles and needs? Out of necessity, educators write or adapt curricula to support faith formation needs and goals in their congregational setting. There is always room to hone and strengthen curriculum writing skills. Join us as we explore ways to faithfully bridge the gap between purchased resources and what is useful for your faith community. In this 3-hour workshop, participants will turn an eye toward adapting curricula that is focused, educationally and theologically sound, and appropriate for different learning styles. You will also work with a sample of your own curricula/lesson plans to evaluate and polish for your particular setting and goals. Please bring a sample lesson to the workshop.

Workshop Leader: Beth Herrinton-Hodge

Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Certified CE and clergy member of Mid-Ky Presbytery. Beth is a passionate and creative educator, curriculum writer, and editor who worked in curriculum development with (former) Congregational Ministries Publishing (CMP) and holds writing/editing contracts with Presbyterian Publishing (PPC). She enjoys working with others to make their writing shine.

Co-Leader: Melissa White

Melissa White serves as the Curriculum Coordinator for the Center for Excellence in Christian Education at Union Presbyterian Seminary and the Director of Hospitality and Connection at South Mecklenburg Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. Melissa has an MDiv and an M.A.C.E. from Union Presbyterian Seminary and a M.Ed. from the University of Georgia. She loves reading, teaching, and exploring the connection between faith and life experiences.

Description

Loving our neighbors inside and outside of our faith communities requires engaging theological discussion, creativity, collaboration, and vulnerability. Church workers are often asked to lead ministries which bridge the ideological gaps and navigate the intersections of culture, politics, and faith formation. Dr. Sarah Leer (she/her), an educator, former youth worker, and practical theologian will invite participants to engage in practical conversations of LGBTQIA+ affirmation and belonging through the lens of abundance. In this interactive workshop, we will wrestle with what it means for all to know they are beloved. We will also discuss how leaders of various generations can bridge the gap in their ministries by power-sharing with youth and young adults. We will discuss how we love our LGBTQIA+ neighbors through affirming terminology and by utilizing resources to affirm and celebrate LGBTQIA+ people in our midst. Sarah will create a space for participants of all ages and perspectives to learn together while also equipping them with resources to deepen and express belonging in their ministries.

Workshop Leader: Sarah Leer

Dr. Sarah Leer (she/her/hers) is a native Arkansan, and lifelong Presbyterian who has served non-profits for over a decade. Sarah is a writer, consultant, a grant project manager, and mid-council staff for the Presbytery of Arkansas. She is a practical theologian who is living into her call to deconstruct systems and disrupt the status quo in order to seek liberation, justice, and belonging in solidarity with those living on the margins.

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Description

Today’s classrooms are packed full of diverse learners. Children who learn by doing, ones who need to talk in order to process and others who learn by reading and processing internally. Churches often have to combine grade levels into one class widening the range of social and intellectual development. So why do we still rely so heavily on whole group instruction? Because it is the way we were taught and it is the way most church curriculums are designed.

But church isn’t school. Church is a place where all children should experience God’s love and grow in faith. To make that happen, Sunday School must evolve to meet the diverse learning needs of today’s kids.

Originally developed in special education, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) provides a flexible framework to ensure all children can access and engage with learning. By providing choice and options, typical learners will become more engaged. When given the opportunity, children learn how they learn best and they will gravitate towards the activities that fit their learning style, interests and mood. What better way to show the love of Jesus then by teaching in a way that validates the strengths and interests of each child. Join me for a hands-on session where you’ll learn practical strategies to transform your Sunday School lessons—so every child feels valued, included, and excited to learn!
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Participants will:
-understand the guiding principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
-learn practical strategies to make any curriculum more engaging and accessible
-have an opportunity to apply UDL principles by adapting a lesson or creating a new one

Workshop Leader: Allison McQueen

A special education teacher by training and a Christian educator by God’s calling, Allison—guided by the wisdom of her pastors—translates Jesus’ words into kid-friendly, meaningful lessons at Wellshire Presbyterian Church in Denver, Colorado.

She holds a master’s degree in special education and studied Universal Design for Learning (UDL) at Harvard’s Summer Institute. With 15 years of experience as a public school teacher, coach, and consultant, she has led numerous seminars on UDL for the Denver Public School System and across the state of Colorado.

Now in her third year of service at Wellshire, she has created three original Vacation Bible School experiences, written numerous Sunday School lessons and children’s sermons, and successfully adapted several store-bought curricula to better meet the unique needs of her students. With a heart for inclusion, she ensures every child can experience God’s unbreakable love in a way that truly resonates with them.

She is the proud mother of three grown children and loves doting on her two dogs, two cats, two goats, and six chickens.

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Description

As adolescents move from concrete thinking to more complex, global thought, we often see them struggle with the many faces of Church. Mismatched messages from their parents, peers, and the pulpit create a confusing landscape for youth to navigate. The innocence of childhood VBS songs and paper plate crafts is replaced with questions of real-world relevancy and personal value. Just when they need it most, many youth begin to step away from the place they once saw as the physical embodiment of God’s awesome love.

What can educators do to keep these youth connected? Is there even such a thing as the perfect, ‘unicorn’ church?

In youth ministry, we recognize the importance of asking questions, seeking real-world justice applications, and embracing change. These same needs are often met with pushback from society and the larger Church. How do we foster faith in our youth while also supporting them as they ask the hard questions? “What is the vision of my church? Where do I fit in? Where is God in all this holy mess?”

Join us for a conversation about how youth ministry cannot only help youth find their space in a mismatched church, but also begin to build the unicorn church God is calling us to be. Each participant will be invited to share about their ministry context and dream about their own ‘unicorn’. Using a coaching framework, we’ll work to create action plans to take back home, with clear steps to address the specific needs of your own church, as we collectively strive to live into God’s vision for the elusive ‘unicorn’ church—where faith, love, and truth come together perfectly.

Workshop Leader: Kim Ness

Kim Ness is the Interim Director of Faith Formation at two amazing Presbyterian churches – Friendship (Athens, GA) and Madison. Embracing gig life, she is on the board of PYWA, a consultant with Ministry Architects and a trained coach, but her favorite job is walking dogs!

Co-Leader: Courtney Pittman

Courtney Pittman is the Senior Pastor at Madison Presbyterian Church in Madison, Georgia. A former high school teacher and a current chaos coordinator of two off-the-wall boys, she
has a deep affection for podcasts, live music, nonfiction reads, college football, many cups of coffee, and her dogs.

Description

Many churches would proudly post a sign that says “All Are Welcome.” But how do people who have been hurt by the Church before, especially LGBTQIA+ people, know they can believe it? This interactive workshop offers creative ways of thinking about welcome that is authentic and effective, including in a church’s educational programming, worship, publicity/marketing, practices of hospitality, building facilities, community outreach and more, led by experienced church leaders who have worked with a variety of congregations.

Workshop Leader: Brian Ellison

Brian Ellison has served since 2012 as Executive Director of the Covenant Network of Presbyterians, leading its mission of strengthening the Church through equipping and engagement, advocating and educating for the full inclusion of LGBTQIA+ people in the Church’s life and leadership.

Brian also serves as stated clerk of the Synod of Mid-America. He has served previously as pastor of Parkville Presbyterian Church (near Kansas City, Missouri) and as stated clerk of Heartland Presbytery. He has previously served the national Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in numerous roles, including as moderator of the General Assembly Permanent Judicial Commission, the Committee on Mission Responsibility Through Investment and the Stated Clerk Review/Nomination Committee. His writing on matters of faith and theology has appeared in numerous church and independent publications. A graduate of Harvard University and Princeton Theological Seminary, Brian also is host/contributor at NPR affiliate KCUR-FM. He and his partner, Troy Lillebo, live in Kansas City with their two dogs, the recalcitrant Willoughby and the dopey Sage.

Co-Leader: TJ Remaley

Description

Mentoring Matters! Our hope is to introduce the Scriptural and Research basis of the importance of Intergenerational Mentoring and develop a vision of discipleship wherein the lived out stories of the Holy Spirit’s transformational work encourages healthy faith formation. Additionally, we will give practical tools for creating authentic Intergenerational Mentoring Relationships through Content Focused Projects as a way to thwart social distance between generations and pass on Keychain leadership (Growing Young language).

Learning Outcomes:
Recognize the need for intergenerational mentoring relationships for both mentor (pass legacy, higher level of spiritual growth), and mentee (support, finding voice, sponsorship in church community)

Recognize potential for increased belonging and commitment to a faith community through mentorship

Recognize mentors and mentees missional purpose by being ‘on mission together’/problem solving together in content focussed projects

Create basis for understanding & provide experiential learning of the content focused project technique as tool for relationship building

Recognize the need for mentoring when inviting younger people to take on leadership roles

Workshop Leader: Ron DeVries

Ron deVries: 30+ Years of youth min, Ordained Pastor for 13 years, 17 years of church consulting, CRCNA partner of the Generation Spark leadership team, Education from Kings University (Theology), Princeton Seminary (Youth and Young Adult ministry) served on the original Intergenerate leadership (vice chair) team with Holly Allen.

Co-Leader: Anna Radcliffe

Description

Are you overwhelmed with adding “self care” to your to do list?
Jen Phelps is Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has had many conversations with clients about what it means to ACTUALLY take care of yourself. Be selfish, spend time learning more and developing practical strategies to get it done.

Workshop Leader: Jen Phelps

Jen Phelps is a Psych-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Youth Director in Wilmington, NC. She already loves you.

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Description

Artificial intelligence is transforming our world in ways both promising and perilous. From medical breakthroughs to lesson planning tools, AI has the power to enhance human life and ministry. At the same time, it raises urgent ethical concerns around privacy, bias, intellectual property, economic disparity, and ecological impact. As people of faith, how do we navigate this evolving landscape while remaining committed to loving God, self, and neighbor?
In this workshop, Rev. Dr. Andy Morgan (Presbyterian Church U.S.A.) and Dr. James Currier (Assistant Professor of Ethics, University of Pittsburgh) will introduce participants to how AI technologies like large language models (LLMs) and image diffusion tools work—and how they’re already being used in ministry. Real-world use cases will include using ChatGPT to transcreate lesson accommodations, generating logos for upcoming programs, and brainstorming themes for the program year. These will serve as hands-on praxis exercises where participants will engage AI tools and begin shaping their own ethical boundaries for ministry use.
Together, we’ll explore the intersections of AI with ecology, privacy, bias, and justice, asking: If AI becomes part of my workflow, what are my ethical boundaries—and why?
Participants will leave with a working understanding of how AI functions, a practical ethical framework rooted in faith, and thoughtful guidance for discerning how to use AI in ministry faithfully and responsibly.

Workshop Leader: Andy Morgan

Rev. Dr. Andy P. Morgan is the Director of Faith Formation at First Presbyterian Church of Knoxville. A pastor and educator, he has a passion for exploring the intersection of faith and technology and is an active partner and participant in the AI and Church Summit. Dr. Morgan has led multiple webinars and seminars on AI and faith, equipping church leaders and congregations to engage AI with theological and ethical depth. His work focuses on helping communities of faith navigate the challenges and opportunities of an AI-augmented world while remaining rooted in the call to love God, self, and neighbor.

Co-Leader: James Currier

Dr. James D. “Kip” Currier is an Assistant Professor at the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Computing and Information, specializing in information ethics, intellectual property, and emerging technologies. Holding both a JD and PhD, his research explores the societal impacts of AI, privacy, and digital governance.

An active Episcopalian, Dr. Currier is a participant and ongoing partner in the AI and Church Summit, an ecumenical gathering of Protestant leaders engaging the intersection of artificial intelligence and ethics.

Description

Many churches and Christian organizations offer land acknowledgments, but how can these communities organize for repair and join with Indigenous-led movements for justice? This interactive workshop explores some of the fundamental skills and practices the Coalition to Dismantle the Doctrine of Discovery teaches to settler activist communities who seek relationship, repair, and solidarity with Indigenous Peoples. Together we will discuss an organizing scenario, and sing simple songs from the Coalition’s Sacred Lands playlist to integrate and embody our learning. Presenters will also share about the ongoing impacts of the Doctrine of Discovery, decolonization for Christian communities, and the repair commitments that Repair Network congregations and communities follow. Come learn how you can join us in organizing for structural and cultural change to address the ongoing harms of the Doctrine of Discovery. The $5 cost for this workshop will be a donation to the Coalition to Dismantlethe Doctrine of Discovery.

Workshop Leader: Doe Hoyer

Doe Hoyer is an organizer and songleader with the Coalition to Dismantle the Doctrine of Discovery, and coordinates their Repair Network. Doe is involved locally with the Minnesota Repair Communities and Dakota land recovery efforts, and completed a Master of Arts in Leadership in Social Transformation.

Co-Leader: Eileen Schuhmann

Eileen Schuhmann is the Associate for Global Engagement and Resources at Presbyterian Hunger Program. She received her BA in International Economics and French, and her MA in Sociology. Eileen was trained as an organizer for social change at the Midwest Academy in 2010.

Description

Join us as we take a unique look at Matthew 22:36-40, Deuteronomy 6:4-7 and Leviticus 19:18 to gain insight into the many loves that are necessary for a healthy and stable world. What is love of God, love of self and love of neighbor that Jesus speaks about? What is love from a Jewish perspective through the praying and living of the Shema? And in both cases, what does God seek in return from us? The connections between the saying of Jesus and the Shema will make for a fascinating and illuminating discussion.

Workshop Leader: Julia Boyce

Julia Boyce is a PCUSA Certified Christian Educator with a Masters of Religious Education from Perkins School of Theology/SMU. She is an Elder at First Presbyterian Church, Dallas, Texas and teaches various adult groups at FPC Dallas. For 15 years Julia served Grace Presbytery as the director of Christian Education/Resource Center. She has served as President of APCE.

Co-Leader: Shawn Zell

Retired Rabbi serving as a part time retirement home chaplain and author of several books. Rabbi Zell teaches in many Jewish contexts but has also taught for over 10 years by Zoom, an adult class at First Presbyterian Church, Dallas, Texas. He holds two rabbinic ordinations and is a certified counselor.

Description

This workshop explores how churches can equip parents and caregivers to integrate faith into daily life. Based on research from the GenOn Christian Parenting Project, it highlights the importance of intergenerational faith formation and aligning church teachings with home practices. Participants will gain practical tools to nurture a love for God, self, and neighbor.

Key topics include:
Equipping parents as spiritual leaders.
Overcoming barriers between church and home.
Sustainable faith practices in family life.

Takeaways:
Frameworks for home-based faith formation.
Curated resources from the Christian Parenting Project.
A renewed vision for intergenerational ministry.

This session is ideal for church leaders, family ministry directors, and caregivers seeking to bridge faith between Sunday mornings and everyday life.

Workshop Leader: Suzie Lane

Suzie Lane is the Resource Director for GenOn Ministries, where she designs resources, works with writers, and edits all resources. She has served as Christian Education Director for several churches in the Presbytery of Middle Tennessee. Suzie and her husband live in Old Hickory, Tennessee, and are members of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Nashville.

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Description

Participants are invited to consider the history and future of the children’s sermon while exploring various current approaches creating a bridge from past practices to future practices. Demonstration will be part of the workshop.

Workshop Leader: Lynne Pabst

Lynne A. Pabst, CCE, DEdMin, is the Director of Christian Education at Grove Presbyterian Church, Danville, PA, and retired Early Childhood Education professor. Lynne has over 40 years’ experience in giving children’s sermons.

Co-Leader: Lynace Veit

Lynace Pabst Veit, a second generation Certified Christian Educator with a passion for intergenerational ministry, currently is pursuing ordination in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A) while serving as Director of Children and Family Ministry at First Presbyterian Church of Shreveport, LA, and caring for her husband and four children.

Description

As two of the three ordered ministries in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), ruling elders and deacons serve as spiritual leaders. Many congregations, though, have not made an investment in helping them understand, grow, and be formed as leaders in these roles. What is important for these leaders to know before serving and how can we continue to provide opportunities for formation as they serve?

Workshop Leader: Martha Miller

Martha Miller is a PC(USA) Certified Christian Educator and ruling elder, currently serving with the Interim Unified Agency in leader formation with deacons and ruling elders and educator certification. She loves to find ways to empower church leaders in their roles!

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Description

Although First Corinthians contains familiar theology and passages we easily recognize—like the words of institution for the Lord’s Supper and the meditation on love—readers often don’t realize that Paul wrote this letter to a church in conflict. The 2026–2027 PW/Horizons Bible study author, Rev. Dr. Rhonda Mawhood Lee, will lead participants in learning about the setting for Paul’s letter, divisions and a lack of love that betrayed the gospel and, ultimately, the gifts sent to us through Christ. You don’t have to be a PW to benefit—everyone will be fascinated by this journey to Corinth and Paul’s resonance for the church today. Bring home tools and creative ideas for sharing this powerful, timely message!

Workshop Leader: Rhonda M. Lee

Rev. Dr. Rhonda M. Lee is Rector of The Episcopal Church of the Holy Comforter, Burlington, N.C., and the author of Seek and You Will Find: Discovering a Practice of Prayer, 2021, and Suicide and the Communion of Saints, 2025.

Co-Leader: Cheri Harper

Rev. Cheri Harper is the Program Manager for Presbyterian Women in Louisville, Kentucky. She administers the Thank and Birthday Offerings, PW/Horizons Bible study, and is a go-to for resources and support to all PW leaders. Cheri and her husband Michael are graduates of Austin College in Sherman, Texas, and Louisville Seminary. Their daughter Clara lives in Temple and works for Austin College.

Description

This is a special group of students as they are at a time in their faith journey that they have a lot of questions and are beginning to verbalize what they believe. With school and extracurricular schedules limiting the time at church, it is important to make sure every moment counts. Offering workshops and retreats are a great way to bring children together to focus on a specific topic. We will discuss several different agendas, activities, and schedules you can try in your church. Topics will include, Sacraments/Communion Workshop, The Power of Prayer, Life of Jesus and Being a Positive Role Model. Weekend retreats and 2-to-3-week classes will be reviewed.

Workshop Leader: Michele Murphy

Michele Murphy, Director of Christian Education at St Charles Ave Presbyterian Church New Orleans. For 20 years, Michele has been taking Tweens on retreats, getting them to open up about their faith and learn they are loved children of God.

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Description

This workshop focuses on planting the seeds of faith within families, nurturing the growth of children’s liturgical experiences as a natural extension of the broader church community’s worship. The aim is to create a liturgically accessible and spiritually enriching environment where children become a vibrant part of the living body of the church.
Activities:
•     Cultivating family activities to bloom alongside children’s liturgy, setting roots for shared worship.
•     Inviting parents to become gardeners, curating and cultivating their children’s worship experience.
•     Creating spiritual nourishment (liturgical materials) for families to cultivate at home.
•     Using sacred play as a vibrant ecosystem to model and nurture thriving, intergenerational worship.

Workshop Leader: Missiouri McPhee

The Reverend Missiouri L. McPhee, MACE, MDiv, DHLit, DMin, BCCC, CPC, CCTP, FT, CDP, HICS, is an ordained Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal (“AME”) Church. She serves as a Pediatric Hospice chaplain and the Coordinator of Faith-filled Families: Christian Practices for Abundant Parenting at Virginia Theological Seminary.

Co-Leader: Donna Sweeting

Donna K. Sweeting has dedicated her career to serving the needs of her community through various roles in education, social work, and faith leadership. She currently serves as Project Director at Virginia Theological Seminary of a 1.25-million-dollar Lilly Endowment Inc Christian Parenting Grant awarded in 2022 to the Seminary.

Description

When someone in our congregation is sick, we often want to help but don’t know how. Sometimes, our casseroles and well-meaning words are not enough. We may unintentionally bypass someone’s pain, minimize their grief, or flood the moment with toxic positivity.
This workshop invites Christian educators and ministry leaders to reflect on individual caregiving moments and how we cultivate a congregational culture of care. Grounded in Matthew 25:36—”I was sick, and you looked after me”—we’ll explore the difference between showing up out of habit and showing up with presence and purpose.

Drawing on insights from Susan Halpern’s The Etiquette of Illness and the real-world experiences of hospice chaplaincy and pastoral care, participants will:
1. Reflect on their own caregiving instincts, habits, and discomforts
2. Practice what to say (and what not to say) in moments of vulnerability.
3. Explore role-play scenarios to build confidence in offering meaningful care.
4. Learn practical strategies to train and equip caregiving teams.

This session blends presentation with conversation, role play, and personal reflection. It’s designed for those who want to build sustainable caregiving ministries that embody compassion and connection.
Aligned with APCE’s commitment to nurturing grace-filled faith communities, this workshop invites us to be fully present to suffering—our own and others’—without spiritual shortcuts. Together, we’ll explore how congregations can practice the care that heals, honors, and sustains.

Workshop Leader: Zeena Regis

Zeena Regis is Managing Director of Community Engagement at Compassion & Choices and an instructor for the Columbia Theological Seminary older adult ministry certificate program. A former hospice chaplain and grief care coordinator, she is passionate about end-of-life equity, spiritual care, and equipping communities to navigate illness, aging, and loss with compassion and dignity.

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Description

Discernment is a tool we can use in pivotable moments in our life. How often have you just wanted to know what the best option or decision was? Perhaps you have prayed for that burning bush: a clear sign of God, God’s will, or the right decision and never saw it. Could it be that instead of a burning bush you were given a whisper, and just didn’t realize it at the time? Learn how to foster conversations of discernment individually or as a community, to help us understand what questions to ask and what to do with the answers. In this workshop we will explore moments of discernment, and how to accompany our loved ones and parishioners in fostering these important conversations. As an organization that accompanies young adults in such a formative chapter in a young person’s life, UKirk (PCUSA collegiate campus ministry network) has spent years partnering with invaluable communities in our denomination and beyond, collecting incredible tools for discernment to use in campus ministries and churches! This workshop will explore these tools and provide resources for deeper exploration of discernment.

Workshop Leader: Rev Zoe Garry

Zoë Garry is the new Associate Director for Theological Funds Development at the Presbyterian Foundation. Zoë is an ordained minister in the PC(USA) and a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary with a concentration in Women, Gender, and Theology. With over 12 years of experience in education, Zoë has worked in academia both in the United States and abroad. Her most notable experiences in higher education were with Princeton University’s Office of Religious Life, Princeton Theological Seminary’s Women’s Center, and Bangla Language Institute in Dhaka, Bangladesh where she was 1 of 12 Americans awarded a Critical Language Scholarship, as well as working in ministries in the West Bank, Jordan, and Nepal. Zoë received her Religious Fundraising Certificate from the Lake Institute in September 2023. She lives in Cleveland with her spouse and two Russian Blues.

Co-Leader: Gini Norris-Lane

Rev. Virginia “Gini” Norris-Lane became the executive director of UKirk in July, 2019, after having previously served as campus minister at Schreiner University in Kerrville, TX from 2005-2019. She holds degrees from Temple Junior College (AA), Baylor University (BS in Education), and Austin Theological Seminary (MDiv). She is currently working on her DMin at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. She has been ordained in the PC(USA) since 1999. In addition to coordinating a grant for the PC(USA) from the Lilly Endowment prior to her career in campus ministry, she served congregations in San Antonio, TX, and Conyers, GA. From January, 2021 to August, 2023, she also served as the part-time stated supply pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Uvalde, Texas.

Description

Are you looking for ways to reach out to your community to love your neighbors and bring good news to the poor, especially our most vulnerable children? Are you already in partnership with a local school and are looking to expand that ministry? Do you care about helping our children thrive regardless of their zip code or family background? Does your congregation want to explore new ways to engage in advocacy and justice work to support the needs of their neighbors?
Connecting our congregations with local public schools is a great way to help our communities thrive and ensure all children have what they need to flourish. Through a combination of presentation and group conversation, this workshop will bring together leaders and congregations who already have a partnership with a local school and congregations who want to develop a partnership. We will discuss best practices for churches to support their local schools including what’s working in our locations, pitfalls to avoid, and ideas we have for further ministry. We will focus on both immediate direct service to schools and longer-term systemic change for public education. Participants will leave with ideas, resources, and encouragement for the work ahead!

Workshop Leader: Rev. Suzanne Parker Miller

The Rev. Suzanne Parker Miller is Executive Director of Pastors for NC Children based in Raleigh, NC. PNCC is a nonprofit ministry serving NC to mobilize faith communities to advocate for public education. Suzanne is ordained in the Moravian Church.

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Description

How do we talk about death in faith communities that often avoid the topic altogether?
How do we prepare ourselves and our entire congregation for the spiritual, emotional, and practical decisions that come at the end of life?
This workshop equips Christian educators and ministry leaders to create intergenerational programming around advance care planning. Rooted in Gospel stories where Jesus names his own death—even when his followers resist—we’ll explore how to follow his lead with courage, compassion, and truth.
Advance care planning isn’t just for the elderly or ill. It’s a faithful act of love that belongs to the whole community. When we engage people of all ages in these conversations, we strengthen relationships, deepen discipleship, and pass on a legacy of care.
Participants will:
1. Gain a working understanding of advance care planning.
2. Explore how end-of-life conversations can include children, youth, and young adults—not just older adults.
3. Learn how to design and lead age-appropriate workshops, small groups, and discussion series.
4. Practice using engaging, accessible tools like The Death Deck, The Hello Game, and other conversation starters.
5. Leave with ready-to-use templates, planning guides, and strategies for launching intergenerational programs.
This session blends presentation, group discussion, and hands-on practice. It’s designed for leaders who want to cultivate brave, compassionate conversations that prepare the whole body of Christ to face death with faith and love.

Workshop Leader: Zeena Regis

Zeena Regis is Managing Director of Community Engagement at Compassion & Choices and an instructor for the Columbia Theological Seminary older adult ministry certificate program. A former hospice chaplain and grief care coordinator, she is passionate about end-of-life equity, spiritual care, and equipping communities to navigate illness, aging, and loss with compassion and dignity.

Co-Leader: Denise Shannon

Denise is an ordained PCUSA pastor living in Thornton, Colorado. Denise’s passion for older adults began over 25 years ago when she worked as an RN, mostly in Hospice Care. Now, as a pastor, spiritual director, and hospice chaplain, she feels blessed to hear the incredibly rich stories and life experiences of the older adult population and loves using people’s creativity to facilitate their spiritual growth.

Description

If you are looking for a way to creatively move worship from a multi-generational space towards a more intentionally inter-generational experience, piloting a new prayground space might be for you! This workshop will look at steps needed to pilot a prayground as a means of cultivating worship through art-based reflection for children ages 3 and up. Attendees will see how a sequence of prayerful art connections can be programmed with intention, moving us away from “keep quiet” bags, towards meaningful art offerings.

Workshop Leader: Jami Vandock

Jami Vandock is the Director of Faith Formation at Raleigh Moravian Church, Raleigh, NC. Jami is a lifelong lover of the arts and enjoys finding ways to cultivate faith formation through art, music, and movement. When not at church, Jami is most often found at the ice rink or soccer field cheering on her two busy children.

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Description

Participants will learn about the use of biblical storytelling with children ages 2-6 yr old to foster foundational biblical literacy for formation.
Participants will team up to tell bible stories that are irresistable to children who will want to tell the stories over and over.
Participants will gather ideas and tools to tell stories with young children that honors their voice.

Early childhood years are foundational for language, socialization, and faith formation. Biblical Literacy is foundational faith formation and starts before one can read or write. What is biblical literacy and how do we help our children begin a lifelong joy of scripture and God’s messages of faith, hope, love, and courage.

What is Biblical Literacy? Part of the challenge of telling Bible stories with children is laying a foundation that honors the diverse storytelling voices in the Bible. Biblical Literacy is a partnership between the storyteller, the listener, and the Holy Spirit.

Based on her research for DMin studies on children, storytelling, and biblical literacy, Kat brings her 35+ years of ministry with the children of God of ALL ages to foster a conversation about faith formation with the youngest disciples. Bring your favorite early childhood moments and to dream of new ways of opening scripture for children in ways that create building blocks for faith formation and a lifetime joyful storytelling.

TOGETHER WE WILL: ASK, “How do we lay cornerstones that do not have to be nudged, nuanced, or just plain removed in later years?”

PRACTICE, Storytelling techniques will be explored with an emphasis on Dynamic Storytelling which honors the child’s voice and point of view.

REFLECT, On the purpose of telling stories from an oral tradition to an audience that is pre-academic.

USE, Building blocks to create stories that create storytellers honoring the voice of the text and the voice of the teller.

Workshop Leader: Kathryn “Kat” Green

Kat Green is a Certified CE is the Director of Children’s Ministry at Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church in Maryland. She holds a M.Ed. in trauma informed teaching, MLiS in information science and learning technologies, and is Certified in Transformative Leadership and Teaching. Kat is passionate about holistic formation that is collaborative and cumulative for lifelong learners.

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Description

From 1 Corinthians 13, to Shakespeare’s sonnets, to modern poetry, writers have given us a rich language of love. Come join them as we explore how our own words can help us deepen the ways we love God, our neighbors, and ourselves. We’ll use writing as a spiritual practice, with creative prompts about love from scripture, poetry, art and more. We’ll also share some of our words with one another, building bridges between us as we experience beloved community during a busy conference. You can take home ideas for writing in your church or context, or just enjoy time to nurture your own spirit. No writing experience is needed.

Workshop Leader: Julie Hester

Rev. Julie Hester is a pastor and writer in North Carolina, specializing in curriculum and faith formation. She leads workshops on writing through grief and writing as a spiritual practice, and she scribbles online at https://writingincompany.substack.com

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Description

“Love your neighbor” is a commandment that most kids are familiar with. It opens imaginations to dream of the many ways they can show God’s love in the world. What can church leaders do with all that potential? They can help kids dream even bigger by learning the connection between loving their neighbor and God’s justice. They can help kids understand that working to address injustices in the world is an expression of their faith. They can help kids begin to do that work themselves.

This workshop will equip leaders to make justice a vibrant and vital part of their children and family ministry programming. It will cover why talking about injustices with kids is theologically and pedagogically important and suggest practical strategies for how to add justice into programs. The workshop will discuss how to respond to fears that talking about injustices is “political” or not appropriate for children and how the methods of talking about injustices with kids can be productive with adults as well. Attendees will walk away with curriculum suggestions and a checklist of steps to follow as they work to build justice into existing programming. Attendees will also be invited to share their own resources and/or experiences about kids and justice, which will be compiled and shared.

This comprehensive, hope-filled workshop will help congregations move forward, hand in hand with their youngest disciples, down the path of doing justice, loving kindness and walking humbly with God.

Workshop Leader: Sara Pantazes

Sara Pantazes is the Director of Faith Formation at First Presbyterian Church of West Chester, Pennsylvania and the creator of the Young Justice Builders program. She has a Master of Arts in Christian Education from Union Presbyterian Seminary. She lives in southeastern Pennsylvania with her family.

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Description

An article in 2024 by Mark Yoder stated that 70% of youth leave the church after graduation. Programs in youth ministry that are intergenerational help youth feel connected to all generations within the church and without. This connectivity helps sustain membership, enriches the lives of all members, engages the larger community, and empowers the leaders of the future by valuing the skills and talents of the congregation’s youth. Regardless of age, each member of the church feels valued and loved, drawing them closer to God, and allowing them to be better neighbors. This workshop will present “Fun & the Son,” and participants will leave with specific ideas and activities to create an intergenerational, mission-based summer program.

Workshop Leader: Stefanie Swift

Stefanie is the Program Director for First Presbyterian Church in Troy, Ohio, where she lives with her husband, Aaron and their 16-year-old son, Owen. As Program Director, Stefanie coordinates intergenerational events and programs, including not only Fun & the Son, but “Soular” Eclipse Celebration, Mr. Rogers Day events, Pie Socials, interviews for local radio stations, annual Advent programs, and Lenten book studies. In addition, she has co-facilitated a successful intergenerational Sunday School program, with participant ages varying from 4 to 93.

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Description

There are times in our professional lives when we find ourselves in the in-between times. . .a time between one ministry leader and the next. Many times the expectations for this time are on maintenance. . . doing what has always been done until the next person is called or hired. What might happen in the church if we looked at the time as one which presents itself as a time for exploration and preparation? What might happen in our churches if we spent the majority of our time looking at the five tasks of interim ministry as fertile soil for self-discovery in our congregations and a bridge towards renewed ministry in them?
Looking at the five tasks of Interim/Transitional ministry (Heritage, Mission, Connections, Leadership, Future) we will talk about pastoral and educational Interims and how we might re-frame the Interim/Transitional ministry model into an opportunity for growth, insight and vision in a congregation. Come with your questions, your resources, your ideas, and your visions, as we share in the frame-bending exploration of educational and pastoral ministry as educators in the church.
If people can’t see what God is doing, they stumble all over themselves;
But when they attend to what he reveals, they are most blessed.
Proverbs 29:18, The Message

Workshop Leader: Janice West

Janice C. West
Janice is a pastor/educator, now embracing life as a Transitional/Interim pastor as she looks toward retirement at some foreseeable future! She has served congregations in California, Texas, Florida, Michigan, Illinois, New York, Georgia and Arkansas in her 35+ years of ministry (the last three churches have been Interims). She likes asking questions (what have I learned from this thing is a favorite), her Kitty-Boys (Tokyo & Pasco) and trying her hand at watercolor. If there is an opportunity to travel, Janice will take it!

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Description

Is your church exploring how to better welcome and include neurodivergent children—but unsure how to train your volunteers effectively? Have you ever found yourself asking, “How can I best equip our Sunday School teachers for inclusive ministry?”

This session is designed for pastors, educators, and ministry leaders who want to lead confident, effective trainings for Sunday School teachers and volunteers. Just as congregations routinely prepare Elders and Deacons, we need regular, thoughtful training for those who nurture and support our youngest members—especially those with diverse learning and sensory needs.

Participants will gain:

Practical tools to lead volunteer trainings in a variety of church contexts
Strategies for creating inclusive classroom and ministry environments
Guidance on recognizing and responding to different learning styles
A flexible, adaptable training model to take home
Whether you’re building a program from scratch or refining your current approach, this session will empower you to foster a culture of welcome and belonging—one training at a time.

Workshop Leader: Michelle Junkin

Michelle Junkin, MACE, M.Div, D. Min, is Pastor of Spiritual Formation at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Michelle holds a Certificate in Non-Profit Management. She is a Director of Big Faith Resources, a Lilly Foundation, Inc. initiative supporting and equipping churches to minister to neurodiverse.

Co-Leader: Heather Selement

Heather Selement is Director of Children’s Ministry at Westminster Presbyterian Church and additionally, implements the new ministry programing for Special Needs including seasonal Sensory Friendly Worship services. Prior to working at WPC, Heather served at the Director of Family Ministry at the City Rescue Mission homeless shelter. She is the Assistant Director of Big Faith Resources.

Description

What are the essential components for nurturing relevant, dynamic, mature faith that sustains us throughout all of life? How do we construct engaging educational ministries that foster faithful living and deeper discipleship? Whether we are new or seasoned educators, solo pastors or associates, or congregational leaders in churches without dedicated staff for Christian education, we can begin to envision a blueprint that strengthens educational ministry in your context.

Workshop Leader: Rebecca Davis

Rebecca Davis is the Sarah Belk Gambrell Professor of Christian Education and Director of the Center for Excellence in Christian Education at Union Presbyterian Seminary.

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Description

Exhaustion – are you feeling it? One more thing? Are you kidding me? As practitioners of faith and resurrection hope we ground ourselves in an inexhaustible God. Why is it then we feel so exhausted?

This workshop is designed as practical hope for church workers who are exhausted. The theology of scripture reveals an inexhaustible God but that does not propel or compel
us to run on empty. Come to study and share, to pray and to learn new practices. Come for a framework that offers hope beyond burnout, compassion fatigue, weariness, and their collective exhaustion. We will ground ourselves in stories from the Gospel of Luke as we find pathways to refreshment in our love for God and neighbor.

Workshop Leader: Lisa Nichols Hickman

Lisa Nichols Hickman is a Presbyterian pastor, author, and lifelong learner. Her books include: Writing in the Margins: Connecting with God on the Pages of Your Bible, Mercy and Melons: Praying the Alphabet, and The Worshiping Life: Meditations on the Order of Worship.

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Description

An invitation to revitalize your spirits, deepen your faith and set aside for a while ways of being that restrict the fullness of life to actively embrace and feast upon the rich spiritual nourishment available to us.
We’ll dust off familiar faith language and Scripture with renewed curiosity and creative exercises to guide our reflection. I’ll offer you the opportunity to disengage from multitasking and the energy of inattentiveness using spiritual practices that you may (or may not) be familiar with. Embracing the theme of Love God, Love Self, Love Neighbors, we’ll have ninety minutes to create a receptive space to experience and receive the Holy, departing with practices and resources to nurture your spiritual selves and support your ministries.

Workshop Leader: Linda Reynolds

Rev. Linda Reynolds
Retired, United Church of Christ
Currently serve as a volunteer at my home church, Kirkwood United Church of Christ, in multiple Faith Formation ministries and am consulting with several UCC churches as they shape their Faith Formation ministries to meet post COVID challenges and opportunities.

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Description

Sand tray is a practice that uses simple, tangible objects (a box, sand, small figures) to create space for exploring our intangible inner-world (emotions, memories, and spiritual wrestlings). This reflective method uses symbolic imagery to help make clear to us our stumbling blocks in loving others, our stuck points in loving ourselves, and the unexpected places we find God’s love in the midst of the mess. This workshop introduces the concept of sand tray, its psychological roots, and demonstrates how to use sand tray methods as an individual or group spiritual practice.

Sand tray is great for those who are stuck in analysis paralysis, overwhelmed with conflicting thoughts, or disconnected from themselves because it invites the participant to step out of overthinking and get in touch with what is below the surface. A new perspective offers clarity and clears space for creativity. Reflective questions help us become curious about the perspectives of others, deepening our compassion. Curiosity is also directed toward where God is showing up if we take the time to look, what God might be speaking into a situation if we take the time to listen, and where we can work with God instead of trying to make our own way.

Workshop Leader: Ayrika Watson

Ayrika Watson, LSCSW is a mental health therapist and the Director of Christian Education at the Presbyterian Church of Garden City, in Garden City, KS. Ayrika is drawn to exploring how churches and helping professionals can come together in trauma-informed community to do the sacred work of sitting with suffering.

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Description

If we love one another as Jesus instructed his disciples, we don’t let one another go hungry, live without safe housing, suffer from lack of health care, or languish without educational or work opportunities. Instead, as loving kin, we embrace our biblical and theological roots and also we practice embodied actions to stand in solidarity with the most vulnerable. In our time together, we will share from biblical texts that undergird our commitment to social, economic and ecological justice and we will explore what you are seeing in your congregations and communities as models of “love in action.” In addition, we will discuss how to learn from the wisdom of youth and other social movements around the world how to embrace joy and community in hard times. Finally, we will engage some practices to discern our own personal calling to action in our own lives and communities. In each period of history there are challenges to stand for peace and justice from a place of faith, and to discern how best to take action that fits with one’s position, skill set, social location and relationships. We are certainly in a challenging time in our country and in our world as we see violent wars, climate change disasters, the quelling of social movements across the globe. In response, we can stand together, strengthen our communities and congregations, and embody love through faithful engagement and action.

Workshop Leader: Rebecca Barnes

Rev. Rebecca Barnes is the manager of the Presbyterian Hunger Program in Louisville, KY where she coordinates domestic and global hunger, poverty and environmental work. She is author of “50 Ways to Help Save the Earth: How You and Your Congregation Can Make a Difference” and participates in social justice work in her congregation and broader community.

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Description

As younger generations move away from traditional church structures, many churches are rethinking their role in the lives of young people. Sociologists describe “third places” as essential gathering spaces beyond home (first place) and school/work (second place): places where people gather, build relationships, and experience belonging. For Gen Z and Gen Alpha, these spaces often look like coffee shops, gaming lounges, parks, or digital communities.
What if the church not only reimagined its own physical and digital spaces as third places but also helped cultivate them beyond its walls? This workshop will explore how churches can foster third-place environments in their own spaces AND in the wider community through partnerships, pop-up ministries, digital engagement, and creative community presence. Together, we’ll brainstorm innovative ways to meet young people where they are and create spaces of connection, curiosity, and spiritual formation wherever they gather.

Workshop Leader: Brittany Porch

Brittany Porch
Certified CE, is the Director of Mission and Education at Broad Street Presbyterian Church, Columbus, OH. Brittany enjoys teaching in a way that is creative and innovative yet always lands with practical takeaways.

Co-Leader: Taylor Barner

Taylor a campus minister at Jacob’s Porch on The Ohio State University’s campus and is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA). Taylor loves connecting with others, playing volleyball, ultimate frisbee, and chess, and cheering on the Buckeyes with his wife Annie, dog Lewis, and cats Poppy and Penny.

Description

“Won’t you be my neighbor?” is more than a kind invitation—it’s a theological call to love God, self, and others by creating spaces of belonging. In classrooms, group spaces, youth rooms, and worship spaces, we are surrounded by neighbors of all ages with beautifully diverse learning styles, communication needs, and behaviors. But even the most caring volunteer can feel overwhelmed or underprepared when faced with this diversity.

This workshop, Welcoming All Our Neighbors: Learning Educational Accommodations to Celebrate Every Child of God, invites participants into a neighborhood where every learner belongs. Whether you work with children, youth, or intergenerational groups, this session will provide a toolkit of accessible, customizable ideas to support learners with neurodiversity, sensory needs, attention challenges, and more. We will explore how simple accommodations—like visual schedules, flexible seating, calm-down spaces, or shared group norms—can radically transform a group’s sense of safety, participation, and joy.

Rooted in theology and hospitality, this workshop will be interactive and practical. Participants will engage with real-life scenarios, explore hands-on tools, and collaborate with others to adapt strategies for their own ministry settings. Together, we’ll learn how accommodations aren’t just helpful—they’re holy. They reflect the deep truth that every person is made in the image of God and deserves to be welcomed, understood, and celebrated.

Come ready to learn, share, and leave with a renewed sense of how to love your neighbor—not despite their differences, but because of them.

Presented by Rev. Lauren Slingerland (Associate Pastor, Westminster Presbyterian Church, Greenville, SC) and Rev. Dr. Andy Morgan (Director of Christian Education, First Presbyterian Church, Knoxville, TN), co-owners of Little Bites, a children’s ministry division of Fish Food: A Faith Formation Resource Boutique.

Workshop Leader: Andy Morgan

Rev. Dr. Andy Morgan is the Director of Christian Education at First Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, TN. He has served as a UKirk pastor, Senior Pastor, and now DCE. Andy is passionate about faith formation that engages all ages through practice, reflection, and deep connection.

Co-Leader: Lauren Slingerland

Rev. Lauren Slingerland is the Associate Pastor for Children and Their Families at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Greenville, SC. A former special education teacher, Lauren is passionate about connecting kids to God, their church family, and inclusive ministry practices.

Description

For many, Scripture can feel distant—separated from our modern world by linguistic, theological, and cultural chasms. Even familiar stories and characters may seem foreign, shaped by worldviews and experiences vastly different from our own. How do we bridge this gap to find the Bible’s life, relevance, and joy?

In this interactive workshop, we’ll explore how humor becomes a bridge between the ancient text and our contemporary faith. The Bible is replete with comedic devices like irony, satire, hyperbole, and reversal that help reveal deeper truths. However, we can also use our own comedic point of view to engage Scripture’s stories and characters with an integrity that bridges the distance between “then” and “now.”

Through thought-provoking questions, comedic structures, and humor theory, we’ll playfully discover fresh insights, unexpected laughter, and renewed faith along the way. 

Workshop Leader: Bill Stanley

Bill Stanley is the Pastor of Lake Arrowhead Community Presbyterian Church, in Lake Arrowhead, CA. Bill’s hobby is standup comedy, but he’s a bit shy about it. So, please don’t laugh at him.

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Description

Discover how to design an engaging, faith-filled adventure game that bridges biblical truths with creative storytelling! In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn how to build immersive storylines that serve as pathways across the challenges of life, develop meaningful obstacles that mirror spiritual growth, and incorporate scripture-based decision-making as guiding planks. Whether you’re creating a game for youth ministry, Bible study, or family fun, you’ll leave equipped with practical tools and a step-by-step framework to construct a bridge between faith and fun. Unleash your creativity, learn to use AI, canva, and make learning the gospel an exciting journey across the bridge of imagination and truth!

Workshop Leader: Laura Sparks

Laura Sparks, is the Director of Children, Youth, and Family Ministries at First Presbyterian Church in Newton, NC. Laura is passionate about using creativity and imagination to teach the gospel to all ages.

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Description

*Effective Ministry Policies to Prevent Abuse and Maintain Proper Boundaries

The church should be a safe place for people to worship, work, connect and receive care and support in a manner that is free from abuse. Protect your ministry by learning policy best practices and boundary training to prevent abuse and provide a safe environment for everyone.

Learning outcomes include:
-churches can protect their ministry against the potential of abuse through proper policies,
-the importance of background checks and screening, and state of the art training.

Workshop Leader: Jennifer Perri

Jennifer Perri is the Assistant Vice President, United Church Insurance Services at Insurance Board. Jennifer works to serve her ministries and their insurance needs including ensuring they are aware of the resources available to prevent abuse at their church. Insurance Board’s nationwide network of exclusively appointed agents is ready to help you find insurance solutions that align with the needs of your church.

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Description

What does it mean to love your Jewish neighbor? How can we have conversations about Israel and antisemitism while acknowledging the extraordinary range of views and the deep convictions many of us have?

For people of all points of view, understanding the historical and contemporary realities of Israel and antisemitism is more crucial than ever for fostering meaningful interfaith dialogue and understanding. This workshop is crafted to equip you with the knowledge and tools to engage in these discussions with confidence and respect.

We’ll begin by exploring the historical and theological roots of antisemitism, providing a framework for understanding how Christian theology has, at times, contributed to harmful stereotypes. We’ll delve into the nuances of what constitutes antisemitism today, distinguishing between legitimate criticism of Israeli government policies and language that crosses the line into prejudice.

Next, we’ll examine the deep and varied meanings that Israel holds for Jewish people. We’ll explore the biblical and historical connections, the role of Israel in modern Jewish identity, and the diversity of views within the Jewish community itself. By understanding these different perspectives, you can approach conversations with greater empathy and sensitivity.

The workshop will also provide practical strategies for responding to antisemitic tropes and for engaging in constructive dialogue. You’ll learn how to listen actively, ask questions respectfully, and build bridges based on shared values.

Workshop Leader: Evan Moffic

Evan is the Rabbi of Makom Solel Lakeside Congregation in suburban Chicago. He is the author of seven books, including the national best-seller What Every Christian Needs to Know About the Jewishness of Jesus. He speaks regularly at churches and interfaith gathering across the country, and is the author most recently of Reading the Old Testament Through Jewish Eyes.

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Description

The word evangelism often brings up images of people knocking on doors, handing out pamphlets, or being cornered by others asking, “Have you been saved? When?” Even if you have positive experiences of evangelism, you may question just how to faithfully share the “good news” in a way that isn’t overbearing or come off as manipulative. And what about those who don’t trust the church or Christians because they have experienced spiritual or religious abuse or harm? Or that assume that all Christians are Christian Nationalists? This workshop will help participants explore their thoughts and feelings about evangelism, engage their theological imagination, and create personal strategies they can take back to their faith communities to invite others to participate in their faith communities and embody a witness of empathy and justice.

Workshop Leader: Gini Norris-Lane

Gini Norris-Lane is the executive director of the UKirk Collegiate Ministries Association. Having served in collegiate ministry for most of her career, she is passionate about how to embody Christ’s presence and invitation at the intersection of faith and culture.

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Description

Meditation is like a bridge that carries us from painful states of mind such as isolation, fear, loneliness, and anxiety to minds characterized by love connection, compassion, wisdom, and joy” (from the Kadampa Meditation Center). All ages, individually or in group settings, will value learning about and practicing this 7-step Interspiritual Meditation that is drawn from the world’s great spiritual traditions. Each meditation can be crafted to address a specific liturgical season and/or event (Confirmation, Mission Trip, Intergenerational Retreat); topic (celebration of new staff, dedication of new program or building); and/or subjects such as Bible story, discipleship, or grief. This practice is spiritually meaningful, versatile, time flexible (can take 7 minutes to an hour, depending on discussion), and is total fun to develop. Participants will learn the background and the components of Interspiritual Meditation: 1) Happiness & Health, 2)Gratitude, 3)Transformation or Change for the good, 4)Loving & Compassionate, 5) Breathing, 6) Wisdom, and 7) Service. A quote from a spiritual leader is used with each step, including Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, and Taoism., class will practice a prepared meditation, be invited to share reflections of experience, and engage in discussing and/or planning a meditation. A resource list of books by Wayne Teasdale, Bede Griffiths, and Edward W. Bastian, and others will be provided to participants to learn more about Interspiritual Meditation and to assist them in preparing meditations.

Workshop Leader: Fran Shelton

Fran Shelton, DM is a
Parish Associate at First Presbyterian Church, Dallas, TX. Fran delights in learning about and sharing the variety of ways to respond and draw near to God through prayer. She is enthusiastic about grace, reading, playing bridge, and chocolate.

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Description

Many people think that animated television shows and movies are only for small children, having nothing of value or substance to offer anyone over the age of 13 or 14, but this couldn’t be further from the truth! Not only is animated media something that can appeal to all ages, but it also is a medium for tackling big, existential questions and experiences of life in ways that are accessible to all of us, regardless of how old we are. Through looking at examples from shows and movies like Gravity Falls, Bluey, The Iron Giant, and others (as well as suggested examples that come from our hearty discussion), we will explore, discover, and create ways to implement animated media in faith formation programs that will encourage deeper engagement with children and youth while also encouraging adults to encounter new mediums of engagement that they might’ve otherwise not known about!

Workshop Leader: Brendan McLean

Rev. Brendan McLean is the Associate Pastor at First Presbyterian Church, Tyler, Texas. He often sums up his ministry in three words: imagination, curiosity, and solidarity. Many who know him would describe him as “essentially a golden retriever.”

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Description

“Christian education and formation ministry today can sometimes feel like
swimming upstream, navigating undercurrents and unforeseen challenges.
We want to help you thrive in ministry and get above those waters.

This workshop will explore how benefits as part of an employee
compensation package can be bridges over rough waters that lead to
wholeness and wellbeing in ministry. The Board of Pensions of the
Presbyterian Church USA works to support the holistic well-being of ministry
leaders, believing that physical, emotional, spiritual, vocational, and financial
health is all is part of “”loving self,”” which helps us love God and neighbor
well. We will also equip you to have the creative and collaborative
conversation with decision makers in your employment context as you
covenant compensation and benefits packages in both new and existing
calls.

This workshop will emphasize benefits (including new benefits as of 2025)
available to those who serve PC(USA) related churches and employers.
However, we welcome anyone who wants to explore how these concepts
impact their work in other denominational contexts.

Workshop Leader: Emily Chudy

Co-Leader: Carrie Mitchell

Description

Gone are the days when Confirmation looked the same from community to community. When offering a Confirmation experience, educators must adapt to busy schedules, post-COVID anxiety, familial expectations, all while supporting youth in their emerging identities as they navigate the world around them. In an ever-evolving landscape of Faith Formation, context is key. Dr. Sarah Leer (she/her) will discuss practical options for creating new Confirmation experiences that are contextual and engaging. Participants will have opportunities to discuss barriers, ask questions, and explore creative solutions. Sarah create a space to learn together and invite participants to dream about how to creatively engage their youth on their journey of faith.

Workshop Leader: Sarah Leer

Dr. Sarah Leer (she/her/hers) is a native Arkansan, and lifelong Presbyterian who has served non-profits for over a decade. Sarah is a writer, consultant, a grant project manager, and mid-council staff for the Presbytery of Arkansas. She is a practical theologian who is living into her call to deconstruct systems and disrupt the status quo in order to seek liberation, justice, and belonging in solidarity with those living on the margins.

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Description

Love discovering new books? Join us for a lively White Elephant Book Exchange, where each participant brings a book they’ve enjoyed and shares a little about why they loved it. Whether it brought you closer to loving God, loving yourself, or loving your neighbor, your recommendation might inspire someone else’s next favorite read!

After the sharing, the fun begins! We’ll mix things up with a White Elephant-style exchange, where participants take turns picking a book—or playfully swapping for one that catches their eye. At the end of the event, everyone leaves with a new book to enjoy, and a full list of all the books shared will be provided for future reading inspiration.

Come ready to share, swap, and leave with a great new read!

Workshop Leader: Anne Wilson

Anne is a seasoned educator who has served 3 different churches in Houston, TX. She is a past president of APCE, Life Achievement Award recipient, and served as a co-chair of APCE’s Strategic Planning Task Force.

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Description

Presbyterian Publishing and the Office of Christian Formation would like to be in conversation with YOU….the folx who are “in it” every week- faithfully curating and holding space for faith formation in all its forms. Please join us and share your wisdom.
The 226th General Assembly approved an overture last summer requesting the PCUSA to research, create and distribute curriculum for the church that is nimble and accessible while rooted in our reformed theology. We would like to share an update on our response and hear from you about how these plans could better support you and those you serve alongside.

Workshop Leader: Amy Kim Kyremes-Parks

Amy Kim (she/her) serves as the Church Acquisitions Editor for Westminster John Knox Publishing.
Amy Kim is a life-long Christian Educator particularly passionate about accompanying young people along the journey of faith framing. Her commitment to mutual liberation and reciprocity continues to inform any time she has to be in dialogue in and outside the church community. Amy Kim served on the Nominating Committee of the PC(USA) and The Board of Directors for More Light Presbyterians. Amy Kim is a trained coach through the International Coach Federation and NEXT Church.
Amy Kim lives life with Justin her spouse in Western North Carolina along with Herbie the dog. She has the honor of parenting to amazing adult humans. She enjoys arts and crafts of all kinds and opportunities for laughter andshenanigans.

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Description

In this interactive workshop, we will provide a simple toolkit to interpret the healing stories in the Gospels with a disability lens.

Participants will dive into one of the healing narratives with support from peers and disability experts to exegete scripture. Participants will leave with a lesson plan or preaching outline based on a healing story from the Gospels.

We will also provide simple steps for creating accommodations or modifications for existing Religious Education lessons for audiences of different ages and all abilities.

Workshop Leader: Hunter Steinitz

Hunter Steinitz, MDiv. is a graduate of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, a Candidate for Ordination, and Ruling Elder at Riverview Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh. She is also a contributor to the Presbyterian Outlook and disability liberation theologian. Hunter is the oldest woman in the United States with her rare genetic skin condition, and she advocates for the diverse beauty of all beloved children made in the Image of God.

Co-Leader: Marijo Hockley

Marijo has worked with older adults with disabilities, helping them remain in their own homes for as long as possible. God called her to ministry, and she obtained her MDiv. from the Ecumenical Theological Seminary in Detroit, Michigan. Marijo worked for First Presbyterian Church of Warren as the Inclusion Ministry Coordinator. As the Inclusion Ministry Coordinator, she worked with High School students with cognitive disabilities and older adults by developing a mentor program and work-study program. Currently, Marijo serves as Community Life Coordinator for New Life Presbyterian Church. Marijo’s goal for ministry is to demonstrate and encourage all God’s children to actively serve God by sharing every individual’s unique and important spiritual gifts.

Description

Come together to experience the healing practice of story sharing in lament. This will be an interactive workshop that will engage multisensory, multi-modal, multi-medium options for facilitating story sharing as a powerful practice of lament for youth and children (and all ages!) in faith communities, in worship and in daily life.
This workshop will be:
• Experiential
• Collaborative
• Practical (things to use immediately in your context!)
Come find out how yarn, playdough, picture books, photos, food, and so much more can help us share our stories and practice healing together through story sharing in lament.
Story sharing is one of the many practices highlighted in Valerie’s ongoing project called Lament with Children & Youth in Worship & Daily Life. See more at valeriemgrissom.com.

Workshop Leader: Valerie Grissom

Valerie M. Grissom is a pastor and worship leader near Seattle, Washington. She serves as Chair of the InterGenerate Team, and is the editor of the book All Ages Becoming: Intergenerational Practice in the Formation of God’s People. For more about Valerie’s ministry and research, visit valeriemgrissom.com.

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Description

A model for bridging generational perspectives by sharing understanding, innovation, and continuity with a goal to ensure]everyone contributes to a unified mission.

Workshop Leader: Stefanie Marsden

Stefanie is an expert relationship grower, legacy planning professional, and generosity advocate. As Relationship Manager at TPF, Stefanie is responsible for working closely with our Partners to grow relationships, as well as their TPF assets. Additionally, Stefanie identifies and cultivates new partners who TPF can assist in the expansion of their mission efforts.
TPF is a non-profit, faith-based investment firm that exists to help organizations enable and expand mission. With more than 20 years of business and development experience, Stefanie serves as a leader for TPF in our organization where she leverages both her business acumen and passion for the Church as she implements educational and growth initiatives. She is past President and member of The Dallas Council of Charitable Gift Planners loves working with churches and nonprofits to support them as they strive to change the lives of others, together. Stefanie, in addition to her many roles at TPF, is also a jazz vocalist, elder at her church and most importantly, mom to two crazy boys.  

Co-Leader:

Description

Your church has a membership roll with individuals between the ages of 22 and 30 who, according to rumors, have returned to town and are periodically attending worship services (if at all). When you encounter them in public, you inquire about their well-being in both their personal lives and their religious lives. They express their desire to continue attending worship and participating in the church’s activities, but they also seek a meaningful space for building relationships and engaging in discussions with individuals who share similar characteristics. As a church leader, this workshop will introduce participants to an approach developed by a group of local clergy that leverages each of their strengths and relationships with one another, as well as their relationships with the members of the church, to create a vibrant community gathering that fosters fellowship, connection, faith development, and support. The workshop leaders, two members of the clergy group, also employ this collaborative model for monthly youth ministry gatherings and believe that it can be adapted to other church demographics.

Workshop Leader: Kathryn Campbell

Pastor of Fellowship Pres. Church (Greensboro, NC), Kathryn Campbell (DMin) is passionate about faith formation & the connectional church. Non-work “to do” list items include: mom taxi, working out with friends, & finding the next Diet Coke to drink.

Co-Leader: Sam Perkins

Pastor of Formation, Mission & Connection at Westminster Pres (Greensboro, NC), Sam Perkins is most passionate about youth & young adults’ connections to the greater community no matter the age. He loves to love, create, wonder, laugh, sing, & play.

Description

Through a panel of faith formation presenters, we will look into the traditional model of VBS as we have known it to be over the past 50 years, what challenges that model presents for many contemporary churches, and what some churches are doing differently. Jill Reichert will present a week of camp (with an all-day option) that focuses on Worship Arts in the morning, culminating in a children-led worship service and an afternoon focus of service/outreach and recreation; Colleen Duffy will present a week of evening, intergenerational gatherings; Kat Green will present a model that is a Bible Study and Supper Club all wrapped up into one; and Priscilla Andre-Colton will present a camp that has a faith-based VBS curriculum in the morning, followed by an optional afternoon of fellowship, arts, recreation, and service. During our panel discussions we will lean into the need to: Show our children that Loving Neighbor is by its very nature, Loving God; Connecting our children with the larger worshiping body of our churches (intergenerationality) through building lasting relationships, sharing one another’s gifts, and fostering the need for inclusion and mutuality across all ages in the Body of Christ; and Connecting our children with the ministries, mission, and outreach that our churches are connected with (loving and serving our neighbors), allowing our children to serve alongside adults. You will see these common threads woven throughout the panelists’ presentations. Time will be given for sharing thoughts and beginning to develop new ideas for your congregations.

Workshop Leader: Jill Reichert

Jill has been in educational ministries for over 25 years, serving 4 PCUSA congregations, 1 UCC congregation, and one cross-denominational church consulting organization as a consultant. Her greatest ministry passion is intergenerational ministry and equipping families of young children to nurture their families’ home faith lives.

Co-Leader: Priscilla Andre-Colton; Kat Green; Colleen Duffy

Priscilla Andre-Colton, a retired Certified Christian Educator from Alexandria, VA.
She has served churches in Florida, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Virginia. She was
also one of the writers for Follow Me curriculum and Opening Doors content.

Kat Green is the Director of Children’s Ministry at
Woods Church in Severna Park, MD. She has
served in all areas of formation and with
churches from 2 to 4000 members.

Colleen Duffy is the Associate for Family Nurture at First Presbyterian Church of Newton, in Newton, New Jersey and has served several terms on the board of the East APCE Region, where she currently serves as Secretary.

Description

Easter is a day for joy and celebration in worship, but sometimes young children and those with sensory issues get lost in the shuffle. Though congregations tend to offer a “family” service for Christmas Eve, Easter morning services are often only offered in a more traditional style, leaning on the children’s sermon and Sunday School to fill in the learning gaps for younger worshippers and those with disabilities. Traditional Easter services often also include brass instruments and louder organ music which can be difficult for those with sensory sensitivity. In addition to these challenges, families in our congregations spend less time attending other Holy Week services and the Easter service must carry more weight in telling the whole story of the lows of Jesus’ betrayal and death to the joy of his resurrection.

This workshop will explore our congregation’s journey in creating a fully intergenerational worship service for Easter that eliminates some sensory triggers, invites greater congregational participation, and supports learning the broader story of Holy Week–not just that of Easter morning. With our congregation’s learning process as a model, attendees will participate in an assessment process for their churches and begin developing their own intergenerational Easter service that engages a broad range of worshippers with age, learning, and sensory differences.

Workshop Leader: Jen Riddle

Jen Riddle is the Director of Children, Youth, and Young Adult Ministries at First Presbyterian Church, Columbus, IN. As a behavior analyst and pastor, she advocates for including folks with all abilities in the full spectrum of congregational life.

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Description

This Around the Table workshop invites faith leaders to explore how intentional storytelling and everyday spiritual practices can deepen both personal and faith formation of children and youth in households. Participants will learn the difference between Christian formation and Christian education and focus on how to integrate biblical storytelling, cultural heritage, and practical routines into daily life. Participants will discover how spiritual disciplines—like sabbath observance, prayer, and hospitality—can be woven together with storytelling traditions, creating a cohesive, intergenerational approach to fostering Christian identity with young people. By learning how to connect personal experiences with Scripture and faith heritage, leaders will gain tools to empower families, grandparents, caregivers, and the wider faith community to pass down a living, relatable faith to the next generation. Come and learn more about the Around the Table Cohort Initiative and how your church can join other leaders to cultivate Christian faith.

Workshop Leader: Neema Cyrus-Franklin

Neema Cyrus-Franklin is the Program Coordinator for the Office of Christian Formation in the PCUSA where she leads the Around the Table Initiative, supporting faith formation in households. Trained as an ICF coach, somatic attachment practitioner, trauma sensitive yoga instructor and will complete a 900-hour certification in holistic yoga therapy in fall of 2025.

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Description

Hospitality is the quality of how we treat strangers. Fellowship is the quality of how we treat friends. Most churches excel at fellowship but struggle with hospitality. How might we be more hospitable to the strangers in our midst?

Workshop Leader: John-Peter Smit

John-Peter Smit is the recently retired Synod Minister of Congregational Health. He is passionate about encouraging congregations and leaders to make a difference in their communities. He is married to Tori and they have two grown children and a very lazy cat.

Co-Leader:

Description

Children learn best through repetition and expectations. Parents need directions to give their children. This workshop will give you the tools to offer a workshop for children and their parents to explore the service, rituals, bulletin, creeds, etc. Also included will be a parent class outline that explains the importance of family worship. Leave with ideas that can work in any church.

The topics covered will be (1) Why do we worship? (2) How do we get ready for worship? (3) Baptism (4) Communion (5) How do we hear God’s word? (6) How do we thank God?

Workshop Leader: Michele Murphy

Michele Murphy, Director of Christian Education at St Charles Ave Presbyterian Church in New Orleans, LA. Through 19 years of ministry, Michele has learned the importance of engaging children and their families in worship.

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Description

The Co-Moderators of the 226th General Assembly, CeCe Armstrong and Tony Larson, took a Journey to Stand. After prevailing during the election, the work they do became a Journey to Serve. This workshop will look at how the Scriptures inform their work in crossing bridges through faith, leadership, and service. Participants will get to explore opportunities to bridge the gap that usually separates leadership from those who receive acts of service.

Workshop Leader: Cecelia Armstrong

Rev. Cecelia “CeCe” Armstrong currently serves as the Co-Moderator of the 226th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). She was elected in July 2024. She is currently serving St. James Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in Charleston, South Carolina as Associate Pastor.

Cecelia has served in several church leadership positions across Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina. In addition, she has participated in various committees and commissions on ministry and served as co-moderator of the National Association of Presbyterian Clergywomen.

She has been a contributing writer for Presbyterians Today magazine, as well as the Presbyterian Outlook and more.

Co-Leader: Tony Larson

Rev. Tony Larson currently serves as the Co-Moderator of the 226th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). He was elected in July 2024. He is currently serving as pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Surfside, South Carolina, and is enrolled in Doctor of Ministry studies at Union Presbyterian Seminary in Charlotte, North Carolina. Tony has served in a number of capacities, including co-leader of the Synod Youth Council for the Synod of the Mid-Atlantic, which planned the Synod Youth Leadership Development Event, an annual gathering to equip youth to be leaders in the church, as well as skill development for youth ministry professionals. He has also served as a planning team member for Montreat Youth Conference.

Description

How does the church go beyond survival mode to a thriving posture even in turbulent times? How do we move into a faithful and creative future when the old ways of doing things no longer work? This workshop will introduce the tools of design thinking, a helpful and humane process to help groups imagine, create and implement ministries that matter.

Workshop Leader: MaryAnn McKibben Dana

MaryAnn is a writer, pastor, speaker, and ministry coach living in the Virginia suburbs of DC. She is the author of three books, including Hope: A User’s Manual, and writes a weekly newsletter for thousands of subscribers called The Blue Room. MaryAnn is a graduate of Rice University and Columbia Theological Seminary, a mother of three, an imperfect knitter, and an occasional ultramarathoner.

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Description

The journey between youth ministry and adult discipleship in the church has been a difficult one for young adults to navigate. When youth ministry programs are siloed from the rest of the congregation, they can look deceivingly strong and amazing. But youth ministry programs often unintentionally graduate young adults who struggle to find ways to meaningfully engage in a church community that looks nothing like the youth ministry they grew up in. How can the church help prepare our young people to gracefully move from our youth programs into the adult life and ministries of a congregation and a life of faith in the world? This workshop will explore how the foundations of healthy, intentional youth ministries and creative, fun adult programs can bridge the gap to provide a smooth transition to adult discipleship in the church for young adults. We’ll consider effective strategies for youth ministry programs that engage youth in the life of the church, discuss how building adult ministries more creatively can create a sense of familiarity, warn of bad habits to avoid in youth and adult ministries, explore how congregations of all sizes can be better at equipping emerging adults to find faith communities in young adulthood, and be inspired by how we can effectively welcome young adults into God’s mission and congregational ministries.

Workshop Leader: Jenna Campbell

Jenna is the Director of Children & Youth Ministry at First Presbyterian Church in Stillwater, OK. She’s a Certified Christian Educator with a Master’s in Christian Education from Union Presbyterian Seminary. Jenna is the 2023 APCE Educator of the Year.

Co-Leader: Eric Varnon

Eric is the Director of Young Adult Ministry at First Presbyterian Church Fort Worth, Texas. He is a Certified Christian Educator with a MDiv from Brite Divinity School at TCU and loves the unique challenges that come with adult educational ministry.

Description

Moving through the world as a neuro-spicy child or family can be challenging. Social norms and expectations create hurdles that can leave kids and parents/caregivers feeling disconnected and spiritually drained. The Children’s Spirituality Research & Innovation at Union Presbyterian Seminary worked with a children’s minister (who is also a neurodiverse parent of neurodiverse children) to develop a set of spiritual practices specifically designed to support neuro-spicy well-being. They address issues such as separating from loved ones, preparing for medical or therapy visits, running errands, participating in mealtimes, getting ready for (pre)school, and preparing for visits with friends and extended family. Each builds on a strength of neurodiversity and is based on faith principles and data derived from scientific studies. The workshop will give an overview of the spiritual needs of neurodiverse children and invite participants to explore the six spiritual practices. Each participant will also receive a set of the spiritual practices cards for use in their own setting.

Workshop Leader: Karen-Marie Yust

Karen-Marie Yust teaches spirituality & Christian education at Union Presbyterian Seminary and directs their Children’s Spirituality Hub. She is the current president of the Religious Education Association and past president of the International Association for Children’s Spirituality. She’s ordained with standing in the UCC & Disciples of Christ traditions.

Co-Leader: Erin Reibel

Erin Reibel facilitates the innovation projects of the Children’s Spirituality Research & Innovation Hub at Union Presbyterian Seminary. She is the parent of four young people, one of whom is neuro-spicy.

Description

Even as some of our churches have become more welcoming and affirming of LGBTQIA+ people, many still labor in places where perspectives are decidedly more mixed and the work of leading with and practicing allyship is more of a challenge. How do we best show support and witness for faithful embrace in places where there are dissenting views? This workshop will offer practical help for church staff, volunteers, and others whose communities, congregations, or regional bodies may provide limited or mixed support for inclusion. With interactive sharing of stories, tried and true examples of effective ministry, and theological framing, we’ll offer strength for the journey toward a church that is simultaneously just and whole.

Workshop Leader: Brian Ellison

Brian Ellison has served since 2012 as Executive Director of the Covenant Network of Presbyterians, leading its mission of strengthening the Church through equipping and engagement, advocating and educating for the full inclusion of LGBTQIA+ people in the Church’s life and leadership.

Brian also serves as stated clerk of the Synod of Mid-America. He has served previously as pastor of Parkville Presbyterian Church (near Kansas City, Missouri) and as stated clerk of Heartland Presbytery. He has previously served the national Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in numerous roles, including as moderator of the General Assembly Permanent Judicial Commission, the Committee on Mission Responsibility Through Investment and the Stated Clerk Review/Nomination Committee. His writing on matters of faith and theology has appeared in numerous church and independent publications. A graduate of Harvard University and Princeton Theological Seminary, Brian also is host/contributor at NPR affiliate KCUR-FM. He and his partner, Troy Lillebo, live in Kansas City with their two dogs, the recalcitrant Willoughby and the dopey Sage.

Co-Leader: Susan (Young) Thornton

Might possibly substitute or include Pepa Paniagua, previous workshop leader and staff of Grace Presbytery, depending on availability.

Description

Can you remember attending church as a child? What made it special for you? Who welcomed you in? Who taught you how to follow the hymnal, or to say the Lord’s Prayer? Did you ever feel like you were just there to watch? Did the Communion plates ever pass you by? Were you dismissed from the sanctuary at some point, or left out altogether?

Worship can be a mixed experience for the youngest members of our church family. It tends to be an adult-centered moment and is planned with adult needs in mind. What would it look like to plan for worship with children at the forefront?

Child of Blessing: Growing Faith in Worship, is a program of the Presbyterian Association of Musicians that helps congregations to more fully engage children during worship. Our goals include:
• Listening to the needs, challenges, and hopes of congregations as it pertains to multi-generational worship.
• Producing field-tested materials for children, adult worship planners, and congregations that support multigenerational and multi-sensory worship, to accompany each week of the 3-year Revised Common Lectionary cycle.
• Training and collaborating with church leaders on ways to effectively engage and nurture children, including children with additional support needs.
• Evaluating the impact of intentional, multi-generational worship: on children as they grow, on participating adults, and on the life and health of the worshiping community.

This workshop will explore liturgy, congregational singing, and worship practices that engage the entire faith community: children through adults. We will explore the overlapping needs between our youngest and oldest worshipers, and ways that we can bridge the generation gap by experiencing God’s wonder and joy together.

Workshop Leader: Melissa McNair-King

Melissa McNair-King is the Program Manager for Child of Blessing: Growing Faith in Worship, for the Presbyterian Association of Musicians (PAM). Melissa is a graduate of Furman University and Columbia Theological Seminary. Before joining the PAM staff, she pastored congregations in Arkansas, Virginia, and Georgia. She lives in Tucker, Georgia with her husband and three children.

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Description

What if recreation had a more important role in your next Bible study? This workshop will focus on experiential activities that help participants better relate to biblical characters and concepts. Our time together will focus on activities that blur the lines between games and content.

Workshop Leader: Joel Winchip

Joel Winchip is the Executive Director of the Presbyterian Church Camp and Conference Association and Campfire Collective. He also serves on the adjunct faculty of Columbia Theological Seminary (Decatur, GA), where he teaches their camp/conference ministry and recreation courses.

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Description

If we are to love our neighbour as self, then we need to starting loving who God uniquely created each of us to be. We will explore spiritual practices for all generations to enhance one’s love of self. Practices will vary from those done in communities to solitary moments of reflection.

Workshop Leader: Jessica Foy

Jess Foy is the Christian Education & Youth Program Coordinator for The Presbyterian Church in Canada. When not supporting Christian Educators or planning the bi-annual event for youth, young adults, and their leaders, Jess can be found in the garden, reading, taking photos, crafting, or spending time with her husband and son.

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Description

Life’s challenges don’t pause when we step into ministry. Whether facing personal stress, grief, or trauma, those who serve in the church often struggle to balance their own well-being with their call to care for others. This interactive session provides a safe space for church leaders, volunteers, and educators to share experiences, strategies, and encouragement for serving faithfully even in difficult seasons.

Through guided discussions, reflection activities, and peer support, participants will explore:
-How to acknowledge and honor personal struggles while continuing to serve.
-Practical self-care and spiritual renewal practices for those in ministry.
-Ways the church community can better support those who lead while hurting.

Join us as we hold space for honest conversations, uplift one another, and discover ways to sustain both our faith and our service throughout this storm-filled life.

Workshop Leader: Allison McQueen

A special education teacher by training and a Christian educator by God’s calling, Allison—guided by the wisdom of her pastors—translates Jesus’ words into kid-friendly, meaningful lessons at Wellshire Presbyterian Church in Denver, Colorado.

Allison is no stranger to life’s storms. While she doesn’t have all the answers, she believes in the power of shared stories, collective wisdom, and community support. She invites participants to come together, tell their stories, share strategies, and uplift one another in faith and service.

She is the proud mother of three grown children and loves doting on her two dogs, two cats, two goats, and six chickens.

Co-Leader: Julia Fenn