ARE YOU READY?

Join us & fellow church leaders September 25-27, 2024 for a transformative experience – including dynamic speakers, practical sessions and vibrant community to equip you with the tools and renewal you need for a new day in ministry.

Keynote & Featured Speakers

Adam Hamilton

Senior Pastor | Resurrection

Adam is the founding pastor of Resurrection, a United Methodist Church in Leawood, Kansas, that is one of the fastest-growing churches in the U.S. and has been named the most influential mainline church by The Church Report. He is a bestselling author with books published by Abingdon Press. He and his wife LaVon have two grown daughters and one grand-daughter.

Kara Powell

Executive Director | Fuller Youth Institute

Kara Powell, PhD, heads Fuller Youth Institute and is Chief of Leadership Formation at Fuller Theological Seminary. Named one of “50 Women to Watch” by Christianity Today, she's authored books like "Growing With" and serves as a Youth and Family Strategist for Orange. Kara resides in California with her family.

Candace Lewis

President | Gammon Theological Seminary

Rev. Dr. Candace Lewis is the 17th President/Dean of Gammon Theological Seminary, the first woman in its 138-year history. An ordained elder in the United Methodist Church, she's had 25 years in ministry, planting churches, and serving as a denominational Executive and District Superintendent. She's also a consultant, coach, and co-author of "Resurgence."

Brian McLaren

Author, Activist, Public Theologian

Brian, a former college English teacher and pastor, advocates for a progressive Christianity focused on justice and cooperation among faiths. As an Auburn Senior Fellow and contributor to We Stand With Love, he's a leader in the Convergence Network, crafting new training programs for pastors and church planters.

Kenny Jahng

Founder | AI for Church Leaders

Kenny, editor-in-chief of ChurchTechToday.com and founder of AI for Church Leaders, has a community of 5,000+ pastors and church staff. He's served as Church Online Pastor at a Fastest Growing Church listed by Outreach Magazine. With clients like American Bible Society and Redeemer Presbyterian Church, he's a sought-after speaker on digital engagement strategies.

Blake Bradford

Pastor, Author, and Consultant

Blake, lead pastor of First United Methodist Church in Fort Smith, Arkansas, served nearly a decade as District Superintendent, , Dean of the Cabinet, and congregational coach. Author of five books, he equips congregations in simplified governance and ministry impact. Dr. Bradford, a second-degree black belt, holds degrees from Vanderbilt, Iliff, and Perkins School of Theology.

Jim Ozier

Church Coach, Consultant, Author

Jim is a seasoned church coach, consultant, and author who has trained over 20,000 pastors in 30+ United Methodist conferences. Keynoting major events and serving as Director of New Church Development for the North Texas Conference, he has led church growth and revitalization efforts across diverse contexts, including large churches and inner-city missions.

Yvette Thibodeaux

Church Coach, Consultant, Mentor

Yvette, a gifted church coach and consultant, transitioned from a successful corporate career to support her husband, lead pastor at Impact Church in Atlanta. With expertise in marketing, communications, and strategy, she's assisted Fortune 500 companies and nonprofits, now focusing her efforts on enhancing church effectiveness.

Paul Chilcote

Research Fellow | Wesley House

Paul, a Research Fellow at Wesley House in Cambridge, is a third-generation ordained elder with extensive experience in United Methodist ministry and academia. He's contributed to the launch of institutions like Africa University and Asbury Theological Seminary in Florida. An author of over thirty books, he's deeply engaged in historical theology and Wesleyan studies.

"This is a great conference to hear tried/true methods, share ideas with colleagues from across the country, and to be recharged to go back into our ministry settings."

"I very much appreciate the resources, training, and inspiration I have received over the years. However, even more importantly, I have valued seeing laity inspired and empowered to implement new ministry at our church."

"The Leadership Institute always brings in top notch presenters with a wealth of information to share. When combined with Resurrection's hospitality, this is not just another seminar. Instead, it becomes a means of grace that inspires and motivates me in my ministry."

" LI always recharges me and helps me think creatively. Sometimes I come home and use exactly what was shared, but often it just gets me thinking in new ways that apply to my context. Plus, it is always good to take a team and then work together to reach people in new ways for Christ."

Leadership Institute is for YOU!

Work or volunteer for a church? Passionate about sharing God’s love with your community? Eager to meet others who share this purpose?

Leadership Institute at Resurrection in Leawood, KS is uniquely designed to equip, inspire and remind you – whose you are and who we’re called to be.