the brochure - Church Ministries Conference

EXHIBITORS
Schedule
Conference Location Calvary Baptist Church, 1200 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508
FRIDAY
3:00 - 5:00 pm
6:00 - 7:00 pm
7:00 - 8:15 pm
8:15 - 8:40 pm
8:40 - 9:30 pm
SATURDAY
8:30 - 9:00 am
9:00 - 9:50 am
9:50 - 10:20 am 10:20 - 11:30 am
11:30 - 12:45 pm
12:00 - 12:15 pm
12:45 - 1:35 pm
1:35 - 1:50 pm
1:50 - 2:40 pm
2:40 - 3:00 pm
3:00 - 4:00 pm
Pre-Conference Training - Logos Bible Software
(Visit churchministriesconference.com/logos for more information)
Registration, Exhibits, Vendors, & Refreshments
GENERAL SESSION #1
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Paul Nyquist
Exhibits and Vendors
Workshops - Session #1
Exhibits and Vendors
Workshops - Session #2
Break / Exhibits
GENERAL SESSION #2
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Winfred Neely
Lunch - Sponsored by Logos Bible Software
Logos Presentation - Auditorium
Workshops - Session #3
Break / Exhibits
Workshops - Session #4
Break / Exhibits
GENERAL SESSION #3
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Paul Nyquist
Be sure to join us next year on March 10-11, 2017 | churchministriesconference.com
Pre-Conference Training
REGISTRATION
February 26
Early bird registration deadline = $30
March 7
Childcare is not provided at the conference.
Pre-registration deadline = $35
However, a $10 rebate is available at the
March 11-12
registration table for parents who pay for
At the door registration = $40
childcare in order to attend the conference.
One $10 rebate per family.
Friday only registration = $15
Check with your church representative
for more information or register online at www.churchministriesconference.com
Childcare ~ $10 rebate
(To mail your registration payment see the conference webiste for more information)
ABWE/Good Soil
Access of West Michigan
Answers in Genesis
Author George Brainard
Baker Book House
Baptist Children’s Home
BoxCast
Christian Book Outlet
Editorial Bautista Independiente
Faithlife (Logos Bible Software)
Gitche Gumee Bible Camp
Grand Rapids Theological Seminary
Highway Melodies Inc.
Institute for Religious Research
Jeffrey Parker Architects
Keys for Kids Ministries
Lake Ann Camp
Life Matters Worldwide
Moody Radio West Michigan
Pine Ridge Bible Camp
Primerica
Revive Our Hearts
Student Statesmanship Institute
The Springs Ministries
Vantage Pointe Financial Group
Word of Life
WPS Financial Services
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broad overview of Logos features,
including some deeper functionality,
capped by a Q & A to help guide you
through what you may be working on
right now. An additional fee of $10
is required to register for the Logos
Training. Registration for the preconference training is separate from
your full conference registration. Visit
www.churchministriesconference.
com/logos for more information.
Session 1
Conference Workshops » Friday, 8:40-9:30 pm
CHILDREN
DISCIPLESHIP
Children Can Be Missionaries Too
Room 119 | MaryLou Heyboer, BCM Intl., Western Michigan Director
In this workshop we will learn how to help children develop a heart for missions.
Overcome Fears and Foibles of Public Speaking
Room 32 | Robyn Dykstra, Speaker & Author, Grand Rapids
According to the Book of Lists, public speaking is people’s number one fear. They are less afraid of
heights, spiders and even dying. Robyn’s interactive session will teach you the skills and strategies you
need to overcome your fears of speaking in public. “Great speakers are not born, they are trained,” says
Dale Carnegie. Discover how to use your voice, your gestures, and the space on the platform to
maximize the impact of your presentation and cement your points in the minds of your audience.
Engaging Learners to Activate Learning
Room 121 | Melissa Austin, Calvary Baptist Church, Grand Rapids
In this workshop we will discuss strategies to engage learners, grow the depth of their thinking, and
increase learning.
Team Building in Sunday School
Room 122 | Becca Compston, Pine Ridge Camp, Cedar Springs
Team building activities are a great way to help reinforce spiritual principles that are being taught. Come
ready to learn in a hands-on way many different challenge type games that will help your kids learn what
it is to function as the body of Christ. (Emphasis on late elementary.)
Engage Parents and Families in Your Children’s Ministry
Room 124 | Roxanne Schuchardt, Chapel Pointe, Hudsonville
Today our families are busy. How do we keep them involved and partner with them in their busy lifestyles?
Come and learn more about how to implement the Deuteronomy 6 model given by Moses to parents.
Can Preschoolers Learn Systematic Theology?
Room 126 | Becki Watson, Wyoming Park Bible Fellowship
Whether we intend to teach it or not, kids are already forming their personal understanding of God. So
why not be intentional about teaching good theology to our kids? This workshop will present practical
(and accessible!) ways to incorporate theological instruction into Sunday School, Wednesday night, and
VBS – starting in preschool and working our way to Youth Group.
Starting a Children’s Ministry from Scratch!
Room 129 | Beth Brumels, Cross Winds Church, Wyoming
Starting a children’s ministry can be daunting. It is hard work, especially when there is nothing to start
with. How do you align your children’s ministry with the heart of the church and effectively convey the
gospel? Where do you start? What do you need to know? How many classrooms do you need vs. How
many can you actually staff?
How to Lead a Child to Christ
Room 139 | Laura Mills, Pine Ridge Bible Camp
Are you afraid of doing it wrong, so you don’t present the gospel to the children in your class? Come
learn the four parts of the gospel and how to make them understandable to children. Learn how to tell
when a child is ready to receive Christ, how to offer an invitation and what to do when children respond.
Developing Biblically Authentic Men
Room 38 | Chris De Man, Blythefield Hills Baptist Church, Rockford
How do we develop men who are biblically authentic husbands, fathers, friends, and workers? Through
engagement with the Word of God, the Spirit of God, and the People of God. Together, we’ll discuss
strategies for discipling men toward whole-hearted discipleship of Jesus Christ.
Ministry Skills Needed for a Strong Church
Room 54 | Jack Klem, Regular Baptist Press, Director
Ministry is ultimately a ministry of the Word wisely applied to the people who are both seeking and
courageously following Christ. In this workshop the presenter will expose the glorious nature of gospel
ministry and then highlight the skill sets necessary for developing a strong and healthy church.
EVANGELISM
The Next Great Awakening
Room 52 | Randy Hekman, The Grand Awakening, Executive Director
In this workshop we will recount the profound impact that prior nationwide moves of God produced in
America, and what we followers of Christ must do to prepare a landing spot for the Spirit of God to again
fall on our land.
Reaching the Hard to Reach with the Word of God
Room 64 | Karen Leif (Director) and Gail Perez, Beacon of Hope Family Care Center
This workshop will discuss sharing God’s Word in a meaningful way with those who have no prior
experience with the Bible or who struggle with developmental/cognitive disabilities, learning disabilities,
and limited reading skills. Beacon of Hope has written several Bible studies that introduce people to basic
Biblical concepts, such God, the Bible, creation, the plan of salvation, as well as the Book of Genesis, the
Christmas Story and the Easter Story. Workshop attendees will receive a copy of one Bible study of their
choice, as well as information on receiving digital versions for use in their churches/ministries.
GENERAL
Think on These Things
Room 30 | Doug Jones, Robinson Baptist Church, Grand Haven
Our lives are our ministry. How we react to life’s journey affects the impact we have. Come be
encouraged and challenged by what God says our mindset should be.
Session 1
Conference Workshops » Friday, 8:40-9:30 pm
Developing a Prayer Ministry in Your Church
Room 60 | Chris Courter, Blythefield Hills Baptist Church, Rockford
This session will provide fresh ideas for developing a new prayer ministry in your church. We will discuss
1) the purpose and design for prayer, 2) the first step in beginning a prayer ministry and 3) suggestions
for various facets of prayer ministry. These facets will include: the development of a prayer team,
monthly planning sessions, prayer during the worship service, up-front prayer after the worship
services and prayer classes to offer your congregation.
STUDENT
How Money Works
Room 62 | Ken Chesterman, Primerica
What were we taught about money? When you write a check, don’t use a pencil? Sounds funny, but
it’s true. 76% of workers in the U.S. live paycheck to paycheck. The average American household with
at least one credit card has nearly $15,950 in credit card debt. Nearly half of Americans have less than
$500 in savings. In our churches today people want to serve, to give and to participate in ministry, but
are in bondage to their finances. Learn practical steps to set families free and on the road to being debt
free and financially independent! We will give specific steps for families to regain control of their finances
and thereby honor God.
Building a Ministry that Builds Christ Followers
Room 131 | Jory Trim, Trinity Baptist Church, Grand Rapids
Sunday school. Lock-Ins. Bible Studies. Wilderness Trips. Small Groups. Retreats. Missions Trips. Banquets.
Outreaches. We are doing lots of stuff, but are we getting anything done? Whether you are starting from scratch
or just looking to make a few changes, this seminar will help you develop and establish ministry rhythms that
work to cultivate godly young people. The key is not in the “what” and “how,” but the “who” and “why.”
Benevolence 101 - How do Churches Best Help Neighbors in Need?
Room 50 | Christina Swiney and Emma Garcia, Access of West Michigan
This workshop introduces church benevolence and outreach teams on how to set up a successful
benevolence program with suggested guidelines and best practices. We include activities to help leaders
understand what it is like to live in poverty, and to gain an understanding of the systems that are in place
that prevent the move from chronic need to self-sustainability. We also talk about how a congregation
can partner with the Access casework program and get connected with the congregational community
to address needs in Kent County. We introduce congregations to what other resources and social services are available to individuals seeking assistance.
LEADERSHIP
Engaging Volunteers
Room 128 | Pastor John Dubois, Wyoming Park Bible Fellowship
What does it take to get your volunteers to engage and take their involvement seriously? This workshop
will discuss ways to get your volunteers to care deeply about their ministry and take their involvement to
the next level.
MISSIONS / CROSS-CULTURAL MINISTRY
“And Dwelt Among Us”: Cross-Cultural Ministry is YOUR Calling
Room 56 | Joshua Harrison, Moody Radio
The world today is “connected.” And yet, there is so much disconnect. You encounter different cultures
and ideas every day—and there’s never been a more important time for us to embrace what Jesus has
called us to: cross-cultural ministry! What does it look like? Why is it my calling? How can I do it effectively?
Ministering to the Persecuted Church
Room 66 | Ken Myers, Voice of the Martyrs
This workshop will explain the situation facing about 1/8 of the body of Christ - our persecuted brothers
and sisters. Voice of the Martyrs can help you, your church, Sunday School, Children’s Ministry, Mission
Committee, Prayer Groups, etc. minister to the desperate needs of our family.
Youth Ministry: Equipping or Entertaining
Room 59 | Bob MacRae, Professor, Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, IL
Too many youth “ministries” seem to be focusing on offering students a fun time. What should be the
purpose of youth ministry? How can you tell the difference between a ministry that is focused on entertaining
students with those purposed to equip students to be fully-devoted disciples?
Think Orange: Combining the Influence of Church and Home to Maximize the Effectiveness of Youth Ministry
Room 132 | John Nixon, North Park Baptist Church, Grand Rapids
It takes more than a few hours each week to teach a student to love and follow Jesus, which is why what
happens at home is more important than what happens at church. We will discuss how to leverage the
efforts of both church and home to be more effective than either could alone.
How to Lead a Youth Group Game
Room 134 | Katie Morgan, Founding Director of Attic After School, Wyoming
Are the kids in your youth group tired of the same old games you play every week? Do they act “too cool”
to play? Or do you find it difficult to introduce new games? This workshop will discuss the importance of
well-run youth group games, and offer very practical techniques for effectively leading games that create
memories and build community in your youth group.
TECHNOLOGY
Why Technology in Church *Doesn’t Matter
Room 58 | Chris Brown, Director, techPartner, Grafton, OH
Learn the “Why?” behind the effective use of technology for church ministry and why we need to use it
at the appropriate level for your church.
WOMEN’S MINISTRY
Ministry to Women in the Church
Room 31/33 | Pam MacRae, Professor, Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, IL
This session will discuss ways to be effective in our ministry to women. Our ministry communicates a
message about the Gospel. We will consider what our message is saying and ways to discern if we are
being faithful to the call of Christ and the mission of the church.
Unseduced and Unshaken: Mindful or Mindless: A Theology of Leisure and Technology
Room 34 | Rosalie De Rosset, Professor, Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, IL
Richard Winter writes that “a deadness of soul haunts this generation . . .overstimulated by the possibilities
of technology and entertainment.” God cares how we use our leisure and technology; they are not in neutral
territory and have great power for good or evil. Yet, little preaching or writing is done about either. This session
examines the problem and proposes some ways to think theologically about cultural icons.
Session 2
CHILDREN
Scripture That Sticks
Room 119 | MaryLou Heyboer, BCM Intl., Western Michigan Director
Meaningful and enjoyable ways to teach Bible memory verses
Biblical Storytelling
Room 122 | Becca Compston, Pine Ridge Bible Camp, Cedar Springs
In a world of high tech media, storytelling has become something of a lost art. Are you ready to engage
your kids’ imaginations by transforming yourself and traveling back into biblical times? Come ready to
learn and practice.
Celebrating Milestones
Room 124 | Roxanne Schuchardt, Chapel Pointe Church, Hudsonville
It is difficult to get parents to training events, but if you invite them to celebrate a milestone in the life of
their child they will attend. In this workshop we will discuss how to celebrate these various milestones
throughout a child’s life from baby dedication to graduation celebrations.
Gospel Centered Children’s Ministry
Room 126 | Becki Watson, Wyoming Park Bible Fellowship
When you don’t focus on the cross, you rob yourself of joy. When your ministry doesn’t focus on the cross,
it becomes a burden. The gospel should be the absolute heart of our ministry to children. Take your ministry’s “gospel temperature” and learn ways to continually re-focus your ministry on the good news of Jesus.
Curriculum That Matches Your Theology and Budget
Room 129 | Beth Brumels, Cross Winds Church, Wyoming
Where do you start on choosing a curriculum? What would the ideal curriculum look like for your
Sunday school classroom? What can you even afford to spend on a curriculum? Sometimes the best
option is not to purchase one of the premade curriculums, but to make your own. Once you make this
decision, what resources are out there that are inexpensive (or free) to put together a children’s ministry
program? What resources do you need to make on your own and how do you go about it?
Did They Get It?
Room 131 | Tim Sytsma, BCM Intl., Associate Missionary
We will examine important ways to hold students accountable for previous learning and response.
Using Visuals with Children
Room 139 | Laura Mills, Pine Ridge Bible Camp, Cedar Springs
Go low tech! Learn how to use flannels, pictures and objects with children to help your lesson come alive
and keep your children engaged. Learn to make your own flannels. Learn how to teach an object lesson.
COUNSELING
Round Table Session: A Proven Strategy for Conflict Resolution
Room 38 | Tricia Harmon, Blythefield Hills Baptist Church, Rockford
It’s one thing to learn how to forgive, but what about how to seek forgiveness? How exactly does
someone do that in a way that brings immediate freedom, forgiveness, reconciliation and restoration?
Through actual role playing, you’ll learn the effective process of flushing out the root cause to a conflict
and processing through the biblical principles of R.E.S.O.L.V.E. with restored healthy relationships.
Conference Workshops » saturday, 9:00-9:50 am
Combating Life Dominating Sins – Primarily Sexual Sins
Room 66 | Terry Burlingame, Biblical Counseling Center
Some call it an addiction, but is this avoiding naming it as sin? We will consider the difference between
addictions and sin; identify what are sexual sins; and how to biblically overcome what can appear to
have an insistent and unceasing control of our lives.
DISCIPLESHIP
The Transformation Cycle
Room 128 | Ben Wilhite, Pilgrimage Educational Resources
More than you may want to know about the soil of your heart... The Transformation Cycle is a processing tool designed to help assess what’s at the root of issues the Lord is currently working to grow us in.
It’s one thing to pick out the weeds that start popping out as you see them. It’s another to identify where
they come from... to pull them out at the roots. Removing the weeds at the surface makes your garden
look nice... for now. But the weeds will keep popping up and working to choke out the good stuff. Let’s
dig down deep to see what’s there and begin understanding true transformation.
EVANGELISM
Loving Your Neighbors: One Burger at a Time
Room 64 | Christopher J. Hall, OneWyoming.org Church Planting Network & Pastor of Elevation Church,
Wyoming
You want to reach your neighbors for Christ. But church outreach initiatives are becoming more expensive
and less effective. Learn from a local church-planting network leader how churches in his movement are
engaging neighbors and how it is bearing fruit. More important, find out how your church and your family
can do it too.
GENERAL
Healing the Wounds of Racism through Jesus and His Church
Room 30 | Joel Shaffer & Davien Fizer, Urban Transformation Ministries, Grand Rapids
In many ways our nation remains racially divided. In the midst of these racial conflicts, the church has
the opportunity to proclaim the gospel of Jesus, which reconciles us to God and reconciles racially
divided peoples to each other. We will share from the Bible and through experiences how the gospel
of Jesus breaks through racial barriers, brings unity in the church, and demonstrates the power of the
gospel in the world to transform lives.
Church of Lowell at Prayer
Room 32 | Don Green and Ministry Representatives, First Baptist Church, Lowell
On a Sunday morning in early 2010, a Pastor’s Prayer Partners meeting was invaded by a pastor from
another church. Two weeks later, he brought along another local pastor. A few months later two other
churches joined into what we now call the Church of Lowell. Join us to hear testimonies of God’s power
and grace, and unity between clergy/laity and churches with different names. We will show you how to
begin a similar gathering in your town or neighborhood. Lowell is a different and better place than it was
6 years ago, all glory to God.
Session 2
Finishing Well in Life
Room 50 | Jim Lacy, Converge International
The Scriptures make it a priority to finish well in life. This session shares biblical stories of those who
finished well, how they did it, and how you can too.
Compassionate Care in the Local Church
Room 52 | John Macomber, Life Matters Worldwide, Grand Rapids
With modern changes in our culture and advances in medical technology, the Church needs to take a
larger role in the lives of the elderly, the sick and the dying. Its compassionate care ministry must be sustainable,
practical, intentional, and educational. Learn how that can be accomplished.
How Money Works For Kids
Room 62 | Ken Chesterman, Primerica
Companion to How Money Works, this workshop teaches parents how to prepare children of all ages for
the financial world in which we live. Why should our children make the same mistakes we made? Why
should they be kept in the dark about basic financial principles? Many parents aren’t sure how or when
to start training their children in these life changing skills. What should we be teaching, at what age?
Learn specific steps on how to prep them from preschool to college.
LEADERSHIP
Conference Workshops » saturday, 9:00-9:50 am
Lead Small: Five Big Ideas Every Small Group Leader Needs to Know
Room 132 | John Nixon, North Park Baptist Church, Grand Rapids
Finally! A doable small group volunteer training strategy for any youth ministry. If you’re a small group
leader, you believe in the power of community. But what exactly do you do? What exactly is your job? We
will share five common threads so that those who choose to lead in any size church can work off the same
blueprint. When you lead small, you choose to invest in the lives of a few to encourage authentic faith.
How to Lead a Teen to Christ
Room 134 | Katie Morgan, Founding Director of Attic After School, Wyoming
Talking to teenagers about the gospel can be scary. This workshop will share real stories, and useful tips
for leading a teen to Christ.
TECHNOLOGY
Pedal to the Floor: Bringing the Gospel Amidst Advancing Technology
Room 56 | Jack Haveman, Moody Radio
With more than 3 decades of radio broadcasting experience, Jack Haveman will address today’s rapidly
changing technology – why we need to embrace it, and how it is opening up limitless opportunities to
share the Gospel. How can technology empower churches and other ministries, and what does it mean
for “Kingdom expansion”?
Ministry Skills: Leadership is Story Telling and Story Keeping
Room 54 | Jack Klem, Regular Baptist Press, Director
According to Dr. Al Mohler in his book, The Conviction to Lead, leaders are the steward-in-chief of the
ministry’s or organization’s story. According to Dr. Mohler, the story of the organization frames its mission
and identity and explains why you give your life to it. Leaders protect the story, draw others into the story,
and keep others accountable to this story. In this workshop the presenter will help you become the chief
storyteller of your ministry or organization.
Be Legal
Room 58 | Chris Brown, Director, techPartner, Grafton, OH
Understanding the rights to use photos, videos, music in services, online and in print. As you look at
the ability we have to use media in ministry, we need to be reminded that using content correctly is God
honoring. We will discuss how to find what you need, what to use, and how to use it to be legal!
MISSIONS / CROSS-CULTURAL MINISTRY
The Complexities of Discipling Women
Room 31/33 | Pam MacRae, Professor, Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, IL
Most women will tell you their days are full of navigating the multi-faceted complexities of their life. How
can we best disciple women and teach them to serve and follow Christ in order to wisely handle what
comes their way? This session will address discipleship as it applies to the complexities of the life of a
woman with thoughts on how to adapt our methods to help respond to some of their key questions.
Forming Short-Term Mission Trips Through Your Church
Room 60 | Mark & MJ Holdsworth, Blythefield Hills Baptist Church, Rockford
Short-term mission trips can be life-changing and churches of any size can participate. We will discuss
the Why, Who, Where and How of organizing a trip at your church.
STUDENT
The Age-Segregated Debate in the Church
Room 59 | Bob MacRae, Professor, Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, IL
More and more attention is being given to the idea that children and adults should learn together in the
church setting. There is a movement in the church labeling youth ministry as being unbiblical and even antibiblical. What is the argument, is it valid, and what does the Bible have to say about this growing philosophy?
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WOMEN’S MINISTRY
Unseduced and Unshaken: Everything is Theological: Your Mind Matters
Room 34 | Rosalie De Rosset, Professor, Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, IL
Christ said to the woman of Samaria, “Ye worship ye know not what”. Clearly, Christ was indicating that
one needs to know what and who one is worshipping. If your faith matters, your mind matters; your
intellect must be developed. The church has tended to neglect the mind, in particular women’s minds,
resorting to weak, experience-based and superficial biblical teaching that does not speak to contemporary
needs because it is unimaginative and insubstantial. This session addresses the specifics of that superficial
or dull teaching and contrasts it with the specifics of Christ’s engagement with people and individuals whose
theological selves were engaged.
Session 3
Conference Workshops » saturday, 12:45-1:35 pm
CHILDREN
DISCIPLESHIP
Engaging Learners to Activate Learning
Room 121 | Melissa Austin, Calvary Baptist Church, Grand Rapids
In this workshop we will discuss strategies to engage learners, grow the depth of their thinking, and
increase learning.
Word Skills: Teaching and Preaching Bible Characters
Room 54 | Jack Klem, Regular Baptist Press, Director
We all love a good story and enjoy seeing how villains and heroes are either triumphant or meet their
fate. So how do Bible characters function in a Bible story? How can we properly use Bible characters
in our teaching and preaching ministry? In this workshop the presenter will help you sharpen your Word
skills for an effective presentation of Bible characters.
Verse Memorization
Room 122 | Becca Compston, Pine Ridge Bible Camp, Cedar Springs
Have you ever found yourself asking the questions, Now where was that verse found? …and how did it go?
Verse memorization is so important for kids to start at an early age. Come ready to learn some fun techniques
and games that will help kids remember the key verse for your Sunday school lesson that week.
Maintaining Attendance in Children’s Programming
Room 124 | Roxanne Schuchardt, Chapel Pointe Church, Hudsonville
How do we keep the kids coming? We must be intentional and consistent with the times that we have
with the kids. We will discuss methods on how to maintain and program for this next generation. A new
strategy that consists of replacing the teacher with a small group leader to invest in a small group of kids
will be the key in this next generation.
Help! A Registered Sex Offender Attends Our Church
Room 126 | Pastor Brian Cederquist, Good News Baptist Church, Grand Rapids
As we continue to live in a sin-cursed world, we will see this happen more and more. We, as a church,
need to be prepared to not only protect the children in our ministries, but also minister to the offender.
Join us in learning how to safely deal with this growing trend in churches.
Developing a Discipline Plan
Room 131 | Tim Sytsma, BCM Intl., Associate Missionary
In this workshop we will learn creative ways and preventative steps to avoid discipline problems.
Using Games to Reinforce Teaching
Room 139 | Laura Mills, Pine Ridge Bible Camp, Cedar Springs
Learn some games that your children will enjoy and that will help get the Word into their heads and hearts.
Behind the Easel, Find It! and Memorizing Madness will all help children learn the memory verse you want
to teach. Review games help to review the lesson you have just taught, and/or a series of lessons.
COUNSELING
How to REALLY Forgive
Room 56 | Lisa Heim, True North Ministries, Inc.
As believers we know we are called to forgive as we have been forgiven, but sometimes thatʼs not so
easy. We can find it difficult to forgive others and even at times ourselves. In this workshop we will
examine the major obstacles to true forgiveness and take a look at what will help us come to a place of
genuine forgiveness toward those who have hurt or let us down.
UnPack It: 8 Steps for Effective Bible Study (Skill Development)
Room 128 | Ben Wilhite, Pilgrimage Educational Resources
It’s one thing to teach the Word effectively. It’s another to teach others to study the Word for themselves. UnPack It provides a quick and accessible method for integrating Bible study skill development into your ministry mix.
GENERAL
Teaching Fatherless Men How to be Godly Fathers
Room 30 | Joel Shaffer & Davien Fizer, Urban Transformation Ministries, Grand Rapids
Growing up in a fatherless home has been identified as one of the leading social problems today,
contributing to the rise in teenage pregnancies, crime, dropping out of high school, and substance
addictions. This workshop will show how the church can help break the fatherless cycle through
mentoring fatherless young men to become the godly fathers and leaders that they were meant to
be in Christ.
Manly Dominion: In a Passive Purple Four Ball World
Room 32 | Mark Chanski, Author and Pastor, Harbor Church, Holland
How does a man lead when true biblical manhood has gone into hiding? Our Anti-God Society is
taking dead aim at gender, seeking to feminize our boys, and to masculinize our girls. Our own sense of
insecurity makes us doubt ourselves into an unconfident passivity. The Scriptures summon men to
subdue and rule our lives. We’ll explore the implications in our thoughts, emotions, jobs, marriages,
families, and churches.
HARPCOGS: The 8 Keys to Discovering God’s Will
Room 38 | Tricia Harmon, Blythefield Hills Baptist Church, Rockford
Facing a life changing decision that’s leaving you or a loved one in a state of panic, confusion, anxiousness,
perhaps even praying unbiblically? Stressed with unsolicited, unfounded or prejudicial advice? Are you
confident after you’ve made your decision, that it is God’s will? Participate in a powerful exercise of
discerning the will of God in an area of your own life. Take with you the “KEYS” to empower you to
discover peace, and an enthusiastic anticipation, minus the consuming anxiety as to how the Lord will
reveal His will.
A Biblical Response to Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide
Room 60 | Julie Cuthbert & Brant Cuthbert, Life Matters Worldwide
We will take a look at what drives this end-of-life debate and how the thinking squares with a biblical
worldview. In the process it becomes clear what should be our practical response as a church to
counteract this thinking.
Session 3
Conference Workshops » saturday, 12:45-1:35 pm
The Greatest Story Never Told
Room 62 | James Muffett, CEO, Student Statesmanship Institute
Learn about the important role of faith in our national heritage and how without Christianity America as
we know it today could not exist.
How to Biblically Deal With Change
Room 50 | Jim Lacy, Converge International
Change is hard and often unsettling. This workshop will help you biblically deal with the necessity of
change in a positive and profitable way.
Loving People We Don’t Understand: Ministering to LGBT individuals
Room 64 | Sean Nemecek, First Baptist Church, Tustin
Based on Biblical teaching, personal experience, and a wide variety of Christian writings, we will demonstrate how a church can change their approach and really minister to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. My father has been “out” as transgender for the last 10+ years, so I will also be sharing
some of my personal lessons (both good and bad).
TECHNOLOGY
Developing and Sustaining Personal Devotions
Room 66 | Terry Burlingame, Biblical Counseling Center
Believers will admit that personal worship, meaningful time in God’s Word and prayer is of great
importance. However, this time can be difficult to develop and a battle to sustain. Knowing this must
be beyond a “routine,” we will consider the basis for personal devotions, how to grow in love and
appreciation for Scripture reading and prayer, and the impact of this time on our daily living.
LEADERSHIP
Seven (Plus) Laws of Good Leadership
Room 52 | Tom Lothamer, Life Matters Worldwide, Grand Rapids
Leadership doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It requires certain qualities that people recognize and affirm.
This workshop will examine biblical attributes that make a good leader who people will follow.
STUDENT
The Age-Segregated Debate in the Church
Room 59 | Bob MacRae, Professor, Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, IL
More and more attention is being given to the idea that children and adults should learn together in the
church setting. There is a movement in the church labeling youth ministry as being unbiblical and even
anti-biblical. What is the argument, is it valid, and what does the Bible have to say about this growing
philosophy?
How to Plan a Yearlong Ministry Calendar (From Start to Finish)
Room 132 | Phil Severn, First Baptist Church, Lowell
How do you incorporate your ministry philosophy, budgeting, teaching plan, and the church calendar
into a yearlong ministry calendar? Are you including your team in the process? Considering the cost of
events for families? Strategically planning events to accomplish your ministry goals? This breakout will
talk through all these things and more.
Engaging Teens in Children’s Ministry Leadership
Room 134 | Michelle Drake, Wyoming Park Bible Fellowship
This workshop will discuss giving your teens the opportunity to walk out their Christian faith by being
purposefully involved with your church’s children’s ministry – leading them by example and word to live a
Christ centered life.
Internet Filtering: Protect Your Family and Ministry with Accountability
Room 58 | Chris Brown, Director, techPartner, Grafton, OH
In a culture that is saturated with technology and abilities to be incognito on all your dealings online, we
need to put tools in place to keep us above reproach. First and foremost the struggle for all humans is a
sin nature, which only goes away with the power of Christ living in us. Let’s implement tools to cast away
the temptations that so easily entice us.
Delivering Insight with Logos Bible Software
Room 119 | Logos Bible Software Representative
Communication that produces change happens when we apply the truth of God’s Word to people’s lives.
Today in ministry, we must be prepared to share the truth of Scripture to a culture that has gone digital.
This interactive workshop will demonstrate the use of Logos 6 for effective sermon/teaching preparation, writing research, and personal Bible study. What normally takes 5 to 10 hours of flipping through
paper books can be done in seconds - and the depth of study is unparalleled! Logos 6 gives you access
to your entire biblical library wherever you are because it is compatible with Mac®, PC, iPad®, iPhone®
and Android™. This ease of use and power of Logos 6 will be clearly taught and demonstrated.
Plundering Egypt: Using Social Media for Good
Room 129 | Chris Weeks, Kent City Baptist Church
This is a class that will give pastors ideas on how they can use Google, Facebook and Blogging for
good. Like karate, learn to use the internet’s momentum to give strength to the movement of God. But
be careful....it can still bite you.
WOMEN’S MINISTRY
Ministry to Women in the Church
Room 31/33 | Pam MacRae, Professor, Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, IL
This session will discuss ways to be effective in our ministry to women. Our ministry communicates a
message about the Gospel. We will consider what our message is saying and ways to discern if we are
being faithful to the call of Christ and the mission of the church.
Unseduced and Unshaken: Mindful or Mindless: A Theology of Leisure and Technology
Room 34 | Rosalie De Rosset, Professor, Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, IL
Richard Winter writes that “a deadness of soul haunts this generation . . .overstimulated by the possibilities
of technology and entertainment.” God cares how we use our leisure and technology; they are not in neutral
territory and have great power for good or evil. Yet little preaching or writing is done about either. This session
examines the problem and proposes some ways of beginning to think theologically about cultural icons.
Session 4
CHILDREN
The Whole Sex Talk
Room 59 | Tonya Delnay, Pregnancy Resource Center of Grand Rapids
Having “the talk” with your child can be awkward and uncomfortable. Pregnancy Resource Center wants
to prepare you with a new approach called, “The Whole Sex Talk”. This curriculum is made up of six
lessons for adults, ranging from “Use Your Influence” to “What They Don’t know Can Kill Them.” In
today’s lesson we will get practical and discuss how to build healthy relationships and how to keep in
touch with your child’s heart. Staying connected is key.
God Made Me: Preschool and Toddler Ministry
Room 122 | Sandy Tetro, Chapel Pointe Church, Hudsonville
How do you teach the youngest children about God? How do you captivate them? Engage them? Make
it fun? Our focus should be on developing and teaching the “Three Important Facts:” 1. God Made them.
2. God loves them. 3. God wants to be their forever friend. This workshop will focus on teaching the
Bible Story to preschool and toddlers in an interactive fashion, touching on how to effectively worship
and how to incorporate activities to keep those young minds active. It will also focus on how to keep “all
the buns in the chair” (otherwise known as classroom management).
Leading Children in Worship
Room 124 | Chad Vitarelli, Calvary Baptist Church, Grand Rapids
Our kids were created to worship, and saved to serve! We’ll discuss philosophy and practical strategies
for how to encourage authentic, vibrant worship in our kids, and how to help them discover and develop
their spiritual gifts for ministry in the church.
Is Your Church Considered a “Safe Place” for Students?
Room 126 | Brian Cederquist, Good News Baptist Church, Grand Rapids
Church should be the safest place for a child to attend. Schools and Child Care Facilities are enhancing
their security. How is the church responding? In this session, we will talk about child protection policies
and procedures. We will talk about best practices within our communities and give several references to
future opportunities to continue to protect our children.
Elementary Children 101
Room 128 | Christy Knapp, Libertas Christian School, Hudsonville
Why are they doing what they are doing? How can I make it stop? Are they actually getting anything out
of this lesson? Have you ever found yourself asking questions similar to these? You are not alone. This
workshop will present tips and tricks for working with elementary school children, gleaned from observing
over 30 elementary teachers, earning an elementary teaching license, and personally instructing children in
a variety of settings for the past 8 years.
Classroom Management!
Room 129 | Beth Brumels, Cross Winds Church, Wyoming
Classroom management is one of the hardest thing about a children’s ministry program. There is always
the child who can’t sit still and there is the child who doesn’t know how to stop talking. You have students
in your classroom who have heard the story you are teaching since they were born and the student who
has never heard it before in their life. How do you keep your students engaged? What strategies and
structures can you put in place to help your students succeed?
Conference Workshops » saturday, 1:50-2:40 pm
Intentional Nursery
Room 134 | Michelle Drake, Wyoming Park Bible Fellowship, Wyoming
The goal of nursery should be that all babies are loved on, prayed over and the seeds of God’s Word are
scattered upon their hearts. This session will give you some practical advice on how to equip your workers
to serve the most vulnerable and impressionable attenders of your church.
COUNSELING
The 8 Rs for Overcoming Any Negative Mindset
Room 38 | Tricia Harmon, Blythefield Hills Baptist Church
Struggling with doubts, fears, unclean thoughts, jealousies, fantasies, “white lies”, etc.? Negative thoughts
plague us all. In this workshop, you will actively participate in an animated, action packed process of
thought interruption. Through “pegging” and locking into long term memory and immediate recall, the 8Rs
for immediately overcoming a negative mindset.
Leading Others to Freedom in Christ
Room 56 | Lisa Heim, True North Ministries, Inc.
Jesus said that when we know the truth, the truth will set us free (John 8:32). This workshop is for those
who want to help others discern the lies they believe about God, others and themselves that may be
influencing their spiritual and relational lives. We will look at helping others to embrace the truth of who
they are in Christ so that they can be set free to truly love others well.
Confronting the Unbiblical Concept of Self-Esteem
Room 66 | Terry Burlingame, Biblical Counseling Center
The popular concept of “building ourselves up” and “creating a positive self-image” is in direct contrast
to the Biblical truth of who we are in Christ. Having a right view of ourselves makes a difference in our attitudes, goals, and the way we approach our daily lives. We will be addressing Scriptural truths and how
to help someone be free from the domination of self.
GENERAL
Overcoming Your Fear of Teaching
Room 30 | John Dubois, Wyoming Park Bible Fellowship, Wyoming
Transform your fears of public speaking in a way that may be surprising.
Womanly Dominion: More than a Gentle and Quiet Spirit
Room 32 | Mark Chanski, Author and Pastor, Harbor Church, Holland
How does a woman lead when the world may press her to be an attack-dog the one hand, and some
churches to be a passive mouse on the other. The Scriptures summon godly women, as well as men, to
subdue and rule in their lives. We’ll explore the implications in our thoughts, emotions, jobs, marriages,
families, and churches.
When Christians Disagree
Room 50 | Jim Lacy, Converge International
Believe it or not, sincere Christians can disagree. We’ll look at Romans 14 on the differences between
absolutes, convictions, and preferences.
Session 4
Wisdom Skills: Wisely Telling Your Life Story
Room 54 | Jack Klem, Regular Baptist Press, Director
Life stories can be compelling and encouraging. Dateline, 20/20, 48 Hours, and the Sporting Life with
Jeremy Schaap are just a few examples of popular media presentations of life stories. But, what about
your story? How can you tell it in an encouraging and compelling manner without it being a brag
session? In this workshop the presenter will help you discern how God’s Word has shaped the plot line
of your life for His glory.
Sharing Their Pain: Ministering to Those Who Have LGBT Family Members
Room 64 | Sean Nemecek, First Baptist Church, Tustin
In this workshop we will focus on helping people like me who are dealing with the confusion, pain, and
shame of having a LGBT family member. We will discuss what the church can do to help them. As well
as speak directly to people in this situation.
LEADERSHIP
The Quest for Virtuous Leadership
Room 52 | Tom Lothamer, Life Matters Worldwide, Grand Rapids
In this workshop we’ll describe what the man or woman of integrity and ethical behavior looks like and
how these character traits are necessary for godly and effective leadership.
MISSIONS / CROSS-CULTURAL MINISTRY
Missions to the Max
Room 131 | Jory Trim, Trinity Baptist Church, Grand Rapids
Our teens come back from mission trips pumped up for Jesus, but shouldn’t they be pumped for Jesus
before they go? And why do they always fall back into the same old ruts a week after the trip? From
beginning to end, this seminar will explore ways to maximize mission trips for your teens AND for the
people they are going to serve.
They Are Coming: Refugees
Room 60 | Randy & Diana Fisher, Blythefield Hills Baptist Church & Deb Hoekwater, Bethany Christian Services
In response to the increasing global refugee crisis, the United States has agreed to resettle an increasing number of those fleeing persecution and trauma—in Grand Rapids. In the Gospels, Jesus makes the
vulnerable and oppressed his special concern, and assures his disciples that welcoming the stranger is
like welcoming Christ himself. As new neighbors to refugees, we can be guides and friends on the way
to self-sufficiency, while practicing our faith earnestly by “visiting the orphan and widow in their distress”
(James 1:27). Learn to pool your time, talent, treasure and to use your gifts in support of this ministry.
STUDENT
Breaking the Curse of Low Expectations
Room 62 | James Muffett, CEO, Student Statesmanship Institute
The people who were teenagers in the 1960s are now in charge of every major institution in America!
Young people today may only be a small part of the population, but they are 100% of the future. When
presented with a vision bigger than themselves, young people will consistently rise to the occasion.
Learn how SSi can partner with your church to equip teenagers to be leaders in their generation!
Conference Workshops » saturday, 1:50-2:40 pm
Discipleship and Mentoring
Room 132 | Phil Severn, First Baptist Church, Lowell
Are your youth leaders coming to youth group with a plan to disciple their teens and tools to do it, or
are they just showing up to hang out with the teens and go home? In this breakout, we will talk about
a mentoring process that gives volunteer youth leaders tools to pray for their students and move them
forward in the discipleship process.
Youth Ministry Burn Out: What it Looks Like, and How to Avoid It!
Room 139 | Jon Potes, Grace Church, Gladston
This session will focus on youth ministry burn out, and will provide practical steps to diagnose and
remedy the problem.
TECHNOLOGY
Delivering Insight with Logos Bible Software
Room 119 | Logos Bible Software Representative
Communication that produces change happens when we apply the truth of God’s Word to people’s lives.
Today in ministry, we must be prepared to share the truth of Scripture to a culture that has gone digital.
This interactive workshop will demonstrate the use of Logos 6 for effective sermon/teaching
preparation, writing research, and personal Bible study. What normally takes 5 to 10 hours of flipping
through paper books can be done in seconds - and the depth of study is unparalleled! Logos 6 gives you
access to your entire biblical library wherever you are because it is compatible with Mac®, PC, iPad®,
iPhone® and Android™. This ease of use and power of Logos 6 will be clearly taught and demonstrated.
Technology Open Discussion
Room 58 | Chris Brown, Director, techPartner, Grafton, OH
Ask any question you want in regards to technology and ministry. I have lots of opinions!!! Plus, come
prepared to share things you have seen working in your ministry in the area of technology.
WOMEN’S MINISTRY
The Complexities of Discipling Women
Room 31/33 | Pam MacRae, Professor, Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, IL
Most women will tell you their days are full of navigating the multi-faceted complexities of their life. How
can we best disciple women and teach them to serve and follow Christ in order to wisely handle what
comes their way? This session will address discipleship as it applies to the complexities of the life of a
woman with thoughts on how to adapt our methods to help respond to some of their key questions.
Unseduced and Unshaken: Everything is Theological: Your Mind Matters
Room 34 | Rosalie De Rosset, Professor, Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, IL
Christ said to the woman of Samaria, “Ye worship ye know not what”. Clearly, Christ was indicating
that one needs to know what and who one is worshipping. If your faith matters, your mind matters;
your intellect must be developed. The church has tended to neglect the mind, in particular women’s
minds, resorting to weak, experience-based and superficial biblical teaching that does not speak to
contemporary needs because it is unimaginative and insubstantial. This session addresses the
specifics of what superficial or dull teaching and contrasts it with the specifics of Christ’s
engagement with people and individuals whose theological selves were engaged.