GoGeorgia: Recent Episodes
Go Georgia
Sponsored by the Georgia Baptist Mission Board, GO Georgia is a 2-day church leadership training event. Anyone serving in church ministry roles will gain meaningful, practical information on a wide-range of ministry-oriented topics. With over 100 breakout sessions, whether you work with kids, teach Sunday School, sing in the choir, lead the youth group, coordinate the children’s worship, direct the women’s ministry or serve on the church finance team, there will be something for YOU!
This session will be a discussion of what church video systems involve. Projection, camera gear, live streaming, and much more. We’ll discuss some cost-effective ways to get the most out of what you have and discuss where video production technology is heading in the future.
Leader: Jonathan Lawhon, warrenbaptist.org
Media Director, Warren Baptist Church, Augusta, GA
Learn by playing and singing music that lets children lead in corporate worship/multi-generational worship.
Leader: Carol James
Freelance Children’s Music Specialist and Percussionist
In this fast-paced workshop, video producer, Jon Graham offers 10 suggestions for using video to enhance your worship service or grow your outreach – complete with quick “how-to” segments for each idea and a survey of the tools needed to accomplish these goals.
Leader: Jon Graham, LinkedIn | Twitter
State Missionary, Communications, Georgia Baptist Mission Board Duluth, GA
The family arrives on Sunday morning together. They then move to different locations of the church for Bible study and worship. After the closing prayer, they reconvene in the parking lot. Our physical disconnectedness is resulting in a spiritual disconnectedness. Let’s talk about how the church can help the family stay spiritually connected. We will discuss some principles and strategies for partnering with parents so the ministry we provide students does not end when they leave the church property.
Leader: Brent Baskin, youthministryforfree.com
Associate Professor of Christian Studies, Shorter University, Rome, GA
John has a heart for reaching influencers of students through campus ministry and helping leaders leverage their uniqueness in reaching students. In this breakout, you will discover how to grow the kingdom and your church by being an influencer in your community.
Leader: John Oliver
Youth Pastor, Rosemont Baptist Church, LaGrange, GA
Let’s be honest. There is no such thing as part-time ministry. In this session, we will look at overcoming the challenges we face from week to week as “part-timers,” and discuss ways that will allow us to be more effective in what God has called us to do.
Leaders: Clint and Heather Whitlock
Youth Leaders, Mt. Gilead Baptist Church, Griffin, GA
Children sometimes have misconceptions about salvation, what it means to be a Christian, and how to become a Christian. In this session you’ll learn some great ways to have conversations with children that will lead them to Christ.
Leader: Bill Hegedus
Family Pastor, Bethlehem Church, Bethlehem, GA
Never underestimate what God can do in anyone’s life but especially in the heart and life of someone with special needs. In this session you’ll learn ways to share the Gospel with all children from a Special Needs Champion.
Leader: Monec Johnson
Director of Thrive, First Baptist Church, Woodstock, GA
The church campus tells a story. Stories are all around us, in virtually every aspect of our daily experiences, which means that our church and ministry facilities also tell a story. Tim Cool offers a unique perspective on the importance of church buildings. These buildings are vastly more important than most understand. The church campus and the story of the people in the church go hand-in-hand and are interwoven into each other. We cannot neglect the power of story and how our church facilities communicate a story. In this session, several key questions about church facilities are answered: How does church space support the story of the people? How does the church space prime the heart, minds, and emotions of your guests? How does your facility bring people into the story of the church?
Leader: Tim Cool, LinkedIn | Facebook
Chief Solutions Officer, Cool Solutions Group, Charlotte NC
In this session we will discuss response efforts following Hurricane Michael, including lessons learned and how church teams and credentialed DR volunteers can partner more effectively for future disaster responses.
Leader: Stuart Lang (with David Self)
State Missionary, Community Missions and Disaster Response, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Student ministry can take all of your time, but it’s usually not the only hat you wear. Learn several tools, hacks, and course corrections to get things done, feel effective, and even take a breath once in a while.
Leader: Mark Galo
Youth Pastor, FBC Statesboro, Statesboro, GA
So you find yourself in a praise band with drums, bass, acoustic guitars … it’s a very different world from being the lone musician. What is your role? Do you play more or less? Do you play what is on the page or improvise? Learn how to be a good neighbor to your fellow musicians.
Leader: Kathy Duren
Minister of Music, Concord Baptist Church, Cumming, GA
In this class, you will learn some best practices when receiving and protecting contributions given to the church, ensuring funds received are accounted for, and are deposited intact and whole. Part 1 will focus on contribution receipts, while Part 2 will focus on protection of the church in dealing with contributions.
Leader: Kimberly B. Moore
CEO/Owner, Moore Tax, LLC, Bloomingdale, GA
Whether your kids have corporate worship time together on Sunday, Wednesday, or any other time during the week, you can make sure the time is spent elevating God’s Word, teaching biblical truth, and sharing the Gospel. Learn about resources that will help your children’s worship explode with excitement.
Leader: Scott PatrickPastor to Children, First Baptist Church, Douglasville, GA
No matter what instrument you play, we all know that playing “solo” is very different from the skill of accompanying. As organists, we have the honor of doing both. What if you are handed a piano score that needs to be played on the organ? Maybe you are a pianist by training, and you have been asked to play the organ? Come, let’s talk about these tasks and leave with some practical insight that will make us more effective in our ministry.
Leader: Nick Duke
State Missionary, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Join other women’s ministry leaders from your area to exchange ideas about effective ministry with women in the church.
Leader: Beverly Skinner, georgiabaptistwomen.org
State Missionary, Georgia Baptist Women, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Good Design makes the difference in whether someone engages with your content or keeps scrolling. This workshop will look at how to use Canva, a free, web-based application, to create compelling graphics for screens, social media, and print. Create compelling design to communicate the Gospel.
Leader: Alan Smith, calvaryga.com | LinkedInPastor of Marketing and Creative Arts, Calvary Baptist Church, Columbus, GA
This session will aid in discovering your purpose in Christ and gaining the skills to fulfill that purpose.
Leader: Michael Flowers
State RA & Camp Kaleo Director, State Missionary, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Whether you teach a small group of kids or a large group, in this session you’ll hear a veteran kids minister share the three parts of preparation – spiritual preparation, Bible study preparation, and teaching/activity preparation.
Leader: Maria Brannen
Do you ever feel like you’re stuck in a rut in kids ministry? Come learn from one of the most creative family pastors in the country to see how you can take the kids ministry at your church to the next level.
Leader: Bill Hegedus
Family Pastor, Bethlehem Church, Bethlehem, GA
When you hear the words “visitor” and “guest,” do you consider them synonymous? Do you think we are splitting hairs by looking for a distinction between the two terms? I believe we must be intentional with the words we use. In this session, we will explore some simple – but intentional – adjustments that can transform your guests’ experience. If we believe that our “church” is actually not for those regularly attending but rather for those not here yet, then why would we not take steps to make this the best experience ever.
Leader: Tim Cool, LinkedIn | Facebook
Chief Solutions Officer Cool Solutions Group, Charlotte, NC
Preaching is hard. What if there were a way to ease the stress and improve your delivery at the same time? Join us as we discover ways to be more purposeful behind the pulpit. Sunday is coming. Are you ready?
Leader: Levi Skipper
Senior Pastor, Concord Baptist, Clermont, GA
This session will center around preventative and actions steps to take at the church to discourage an active shooter. The discussion will include actions to take if your church has an active shooter and the gun law in Georgia.
Leader: Ben O’Neal
State Missionary, Operations, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
This session is about the theological and philosophical approach that churches should have regarding the rights of Religious Liberty in our country. Its goal is to help church leaders leave with a practical understanding that promotes evangelism and missions.
Leader: Mike Griffin, gabaptist.org/publicaffairs/
Public Affairs Representative, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Learn rehearsal techniques to bring out the best in your choir. Managing time in the rehearsal is a key to successful singing. William will share effective tips that will strengthen your rehearsals!
Leader: William Powell
Professor of Music, Auburn University, Auburn, AL
Superheroes and ministry. Ministers find themselves dealing with conflict, managing schedules, planning worship, leading choirs, and a myriad of duties that are placed on the desk. Mixed with another job and home responsibilities, the task can be daunting. Keith has experienced this personally. His insights in leadership will provide the tools needed to serve with effectiveness and joy!
Leader: Keith ChandlerState Missionary, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
NOTE: Recording ends abruptly
Each girl’s story is strengthened through a relationship in Christ. Learn how missions focus through Girls in Action and Kid’s Ministry can develop her to grow in Him. Help her discover how to live for Him in her community and beyond. Leader: Lauren SullensChildren’s Equipper, Georgia Baptist Women
Have some things in your office management routine become stagnant? Have you been doing things the same way for years? Maybe it’s time for some changes. Some changes may be simply cosmetic, but some are a little more challenging. Let’s look at some ways to refresh your office and your office management routines.
Leader: Sandra SartorTrainer/Consultant, OPT for Success, Cleveland, GA
Is Vacation Bible School a program with a long legacy that needs to be put out to the proverbial pasture? Is it really worth all the time, energy, and money? In this session, participants will hear the truth about VBS and be exposed to the myths that keep churches from reaching their community with the gospel through VBS. Come be encouraged by the latest research which clearly shows VBS is not a program to save, but a vibrant and effective tool to reach our communities for Christ.
Leader: Landry Holmes, kidsministry.lifeway.comManager, LifeWay Kids Publishing, LifeWay Resources, Nashville, TN
The average adult vocabulary is over 60,000 words. We use those words to form hundreds and thousands of messages – some simple messages with BIG impact. In this session, participants will consider six phrases that kids need to hear to help them become who God created them to be.
Leader: Susan AllenMinister to Children, First Baptist Church, Statesboro, GA
Your child is heading off to college and the two of you have no clue how to navigate what’s coming. In the world of shifting roles and expectations, discover ways to maneuver the path of “adulting” with your child; including critical thinking, problem solving, life skills, etc., while still loving and respecting one another.
Leader: Tony Branham, gabcm.org
Campus Minister, Armstrong Campus, Georgia Southern University, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Groups function best when three essential roles are carried out: teacher, shepherd, and leader. We’ll see what each role entails and how to enlist others to share these roles.
Leader: Lynn Pryor
Publishing Team Leader, Groups, LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, TN
“Everything rises and falls on leadership” – John Maxwell. Sure, as leaders, we feel the weight of this reality each week. Most of us would probably admit that, while serving others, it’s easy to neglect our own spiritual care and well-being. Unpack key strategies for personal spiritual health and growth, and how to implement them into our busy lives in this stimulating session.
Leader: Lane Lowery
Spiritual Formation Pastor, Warren Baptist Church, Augusta, GA
The way we treat our guests on Sunday morning determines whether or not they’ll return and become our next new members. This session provides proven, practical methods for creating an atmosphere for our guests where they want to return!
Leader: Alan Raughton
Adult Ministry Specialist, LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, TN
Our churches are about the Great Commission of “making disciples.” However, there are numerous discipleship models currently being rolled out in churches that bypass the Sunday school ministry. Evaluate your current model and learn how to elevate the disciple-making efforts of your Sunday school.
Leader: Marty Godfrey
Executive Pastor, Burnt Hickory Baptist Church, Powder Springs, GA
Come learn how to fund your church can fund ministry with resources above and beyond the typically tithes and offerings.
Leader: Jonathan Gray,gbcfoundation.orgPresident/CEO, Georgia Baptist Foundation
NOTE: Recording ends abruptly
Effective worship planning with your pastor; this class is designed for the minister of music and the pastor. Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor of First Baptist Church, Statesboro, and Rhon Carter provide insights on teamwork, knowing the congregation, working through change, and much more.
Leader: John Waters, fbc-statesboro.org
Lead Pastor, First Baptist Church, Statesboro, GA
Leader: Rhon Carter
Worship Pastor, First Baptist Church, Statesboro, GA
Come and learn from two of Georgia’s best student choir leaders. You will hear some new ideas for you to use in your ministry. Learn some useful tools to enlist and sustain members.
Leader: Mark Cottingham
Executive Pastor, Worship and Arts Ministry, Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, Marietta, GA
Leader: Sarah Cottingham
Youth Choir Director, Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, Marietta, GA
What do I do with my hands? My choir doesn’t read music – what now? We are a small choir – can we be effective? These are common questions relative to smaller-attendance churches. Discover tips to make even a small choir make a BIG impact in your worship service.
Leader: Keith ChandlerState Missionary, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Have you ever been handed a skeleton lead sheet with just chords and a simple melody? Don’t panic! You can make it a beautiful prelude or offertory. We will discover ways to enhance a simple lead sheet. It’s easier than you may think!
Leader: Kathy Duren
Minister of Music, Concord Baptist Church, Cumming, GA
Empower your kids to be on mission for Christ. Give them the tools they need to confidently share the Gospel with everyone they meet.
Leader: Zachariah Seanor, wmu.com
Ministry Consultant for Royal Ambassadors, Youth on Mission, and Challengers, National WMU, Birmingham, AL
Medical professionals have specialized skills that can be used in many different missions settings, as well as on mission teams that are not designated “medical missions.” Discover how to involve medical professionals in your missions initiatives.
Leader: Debby Akerman, wmu.com
President Elect, National Baptist Nursing Fellowship
This conference will lead participants in discovering the mechanics of publishing. Participants will discuss layout, design, text, and other components of publishing quality materials, as well as adding that “something extra” that will make people read your publications. And, just so you know, everything you produce — printed materials, PowerPoint presentations, your website, and, yes, some of your social media — should be considered a publication. How are you connecting with your audience? P.S. If you would like and don’t mind being critiqued, bring copies of some of your creations for review!
Leader: Sandra SartorTrainer/Consultant, OPT for Success, Cleveland, GA
As teachers we often want to teach in the ways we like to learn best. This approach may not always meet the needs of the preschoolers we teach. This session will explore the ways God made preschoolers to learn and help teachers harness unique learning approaches to meet the needs of every child in the classroom.
Leader: Landry Holmes, kidsministry.lifeway.comManager, LifeWay Kids Publishing, LifeWay Resources, Nashville, TN
Good teachers come in all shapes, sizes, ages, and personalities, but certain habits seem to separate effective teachers from the less effective. In this conference, participants will learn skills that can move teachers from “just okay” to highly effective.
Leader: Susan AllenMinister to Children, First Baptist Church, Statesboro, GA
One of the privileges and challenges of leading is helping wonderfully different personalities live and work in harmony. Learn valuable personality style and spiritual gift insights to help you embrace who you are in light of Whose you are. These insights will enhance your ability to empower others as you grasp the value of understanding as you want to be understood, hearing as you want to be heard, and caring as you want to be cared for.
Leader: Sheila West
Ministry Multiplier, LifeWay Resources, Nashville, TN
In this class, you will learn some best practices when receiving and protecting contributions given to the church, ensuring funds received are accounted for, and are deposited intact and whole. Part 1 will focus on contribution receipts, while Part 2 will focus on protection of the church in dealing with contributions.
Leader: Kimberly B. Moore, LinkedIn
CEO/Owner, Moore Tax, LLC, Bloomingdale, GA
Preaching is hard. What if there were a way to ease the stress and improve your delivery at the same time? Join us as we discover ways to be more purposeful behind the pulpit. Sunday is coming. Are you ready?
Leader: Levi Skipper
Former Senior Pastor, Concord Baptist, Clermont, GA
Currently, Evangelism Catalyst, Georgia Baptist Mission Board, Duluth, GA
Students today struggle with understanding what an authentic faith looks after leaving the safety of their families and youth groups. In this session, we will explore how to ensure that students actively grow and live out their faith in Jesus after leaving high school.
Leader: Jessie Holmes, gabcm.org
Campus Minister, Augusta University, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
We’ll discuss seven questions on the minds of guests, and we’ll see the things you can do to provide answers that motivate them to return.
Leader: Lynn Pryor
Publishing Team Leader, Groups, LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, TN
Learn how to teach with life-changing impact! In this high-energy session you will learn how to move your adult Bible study group to the next level. Discover principles of teaching and learning that unleash your effectiveness as a communicator of biblical truth. Learn how to make a difference in the lives of your class members. Prepare yourself to teach with impact!
Leader: Alan Raughton
Adult Ministry Specialist, LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, TN
Assimilation is a process, not an event. In this session, we will discover how our Sunday school or groups ministry already has built-ins that can enable our church to consistently and thoroughly lead people from “outsiders” to “insiders.”
Leader: Lane Lowery
Spiritual Formation Pastor, Warren Baptist Church, Augusta, GA
Our churches are ready for visitors from the community, but where are they? They are not showing up! Learn the most effective outreach model used right now: community engagement with Sunday school leading the way. Put together a plan for your church and your community.
Leader: Marty Godfrey
Executive Pastor, Burnt Hickory Baptist Church, Powder Springs, GA
In this session we will discuss how your church can walk alongside college students struggling with anxiety and depression, as well as how the church can help students serve the Lord in the midst of their suffering.
Leader: Emily Aldrich, gabcm.org
Campus Minister, Georgia Southern University, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Learn tips and strategies on how to lead kids worship no matter the size of church attendance, budget, or number of volunteers you may have. Leader: Scott PatrickPastor to Children, First Baptist Church, Douglasville, GA
Learn shortcuts and ways to “live” in those more unfamiliar keys. As church music continues to evolve, we, as pianists, will be required to play in more keys, employ more styles, and function in many ways. You, too, can learn to play in all keys!!
Leader: Kathy Duren
Minister of Music, Concord Baptist Church, Cumming, GA
Secure a great sound out of your choir! Dr. Powell brings the classroom to the local church. He will share tips on how to develop a great choral tone for your choir.
Leader: William Powell
Professor of Music, Auburn University, Auburn, AL
No matter what instrument you play, we all know that playing “solo” is very different from the skill of accompanying. As organists, we have the honor of doing both. What if you are handed a piano score that needs to be played on the organ? Maybe you are a pianist by training, and you have been asked to play the organ? Come, let’s talk about these tasks and leave with some practical insight that will make us more effective in our ministry.
Leader: Nick Duke
State Missionary, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Come and learn about how to have effective orchestra rehearsals, new ideas for enlistment, and how to sustain your church orchestra program.
Leader: Duane Warfield, shorter.edu
Associate Professor of Music, Director of Bands Shorter University, Rome, GA
You can create meaningful and engaging worship experiences. Keith will share ideas to enrich your church’s worship – regardless of size. This is a class for any worship leader – full time or part time!
Leader: Keith ChandlerState Missionary, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Can you imagine how much fun can be had in a culture of purposeful, passionate, and proactive people of God, who are united around a common vision, a strong support system, and a mindset that they are not just a volunteer, but an essential part of Kingdom building? Join us as we look at transforming mindsets from the chores of volunteerism to the joy of being the Master’s servant on mission together.
Leader: Sheila West
Ministry Multiplier, LifeWay Resources, Nashville, TN
These real-life women faced challenges personally and in their service for God that are applicable for today’s woman in leadership. We will explore the heart, commitment, and humility needed for serving.
Leader: Debby Akerman, wmu.com
President-Elect National Baptist Nursing Fellowship
Engage your kids with the amazing work God is doing around the world. Bring new life to your children’s ministry through missions.
Leader: Zachariah Seanor, wmu.com
Ministry Consultant for Royal Ambassadors, Youth on Mission, and Challengers, National WMU, Birmingham, AL
Are you looking for the latest ideas and resources to renew your website or improve your online presence? In this session we will cover the must haves and cool haves to enhance the web reality of your church. Join us for fresh ideas, free resources, and practical Q&A. Leave with a MEGA LIST OF FREEBIES!
Leader: Barry Dollar,LinkedIn
State Missionary, Communications, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Have you lost some of the passion for your ministry that you had when you first began? Are things beginning to become the “same old same old?” We have been called to Kingdom work, but Kingdom work can be draining — physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. In this conference, we will discuss ways to keep the enthusiasm— the “fire” — burning in our ministry.
Leader: Sandra Sartor
Trainer/Consultant, OPT for Success, Cleveland, GA
Discover reaching your community through outdoor activities! This session will give practical ideas that your church can use to reach your community with outdoor activities and events.
Leader: Paul Dennis, fcaoutdoors.org
FCA SW GA Multi Area Director and Director of FCA Outdoors, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Kansas City, MO
Effective volunteers need to know what’s expected from them, and they need to be trained to be successful in their role. In this session, you’ll learn ways to train your volunteers, as well as develop relationships with them so that you don’t have to constantly replace volunteers because of burn-out. Mitch has a proven method of developing leaders who stick with their job for years, so come learn from his vast experience.
Leader: Mitch Bellflower
Children’s Pastor, First Baptist Church, Lyons, GA
Do you have a ministry to children with special needs at your church or have you considered beginning this type of ministry? Come learn some of the basic things your church can do from someone who has a heart for special needs ministry and has the experience to help others.
Leader: Monec Johnson
Director of Thrive, First Baptist Church, Woodstock, GA
Understanding a culture is the best way to understand a people. This session will help you interact with, engage, and witness to the Hispanic people in your area by understanding their culture.
Leader: Ovidio Cabrera
State Missionary, Intercultural Church Planting and Mission Ministry, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
In the world of IoT, how IT and facilities integrate is becoming more mainstream than ever before. This session shows how HVAC integrates with event scheduling and how the use of mobile devices can track work orders and inventory, schedule events, project the life cycle of the facilities/equipment/assets … so on and so on. In addition, the trend toward full integration of electrical systems and access/security systems is on the rise. The church world needs to be aware of these IoT options and utilize the ones that fit their vision and mission all the while increasing operational and energy efficiencies. The future is NOW!
Leader: Tim Cool, LinkedIn | Facebook
Chief Solutions Officer, Cool Solutions Group, Charlotte, NC
Conflict coaching is defined as a set of skills and strategies used to support peoples’ ability to engage in, manage, or productively resolve conflict. In this process, the conflict coach works one-on-one with a coachee experiencing conflict with another person. In this breakout session we will discuss the skills needed to be a successful conflict coach.
Leader: Marty Youngblood
State Missionary, Church Minister Relations, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Reaching your community with the love of Jesus is not that hard to do. All you need to do is go! The Great Commission states that we are to go into all the nations. It all starts right here at home. We will discuss ways you can reach the unchurched, community and civic leaders, schools, ethnic groups, as well as the homeless and those struggling right in your area.
Leader: Julianna Temple, fbcjonesboro.com
Connections Ministry Coordinator, FBC Joneboro, Jonesboro, GA
Leader: Roger Allen, fbcjonesboro.com
Minister to Local Missions, FBC Joneboro, Jonesboro, GA
Leader: Ricky Thrasher, gabaptist.orgState Missionary, Community Missions and Disaster Response, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
This session is about the theological and philosophical approach that churches should have regarding the rights of Religious Liberty in our country. Its goal is to help church leaders leave with a practical understanding that promotes evangelism and missions.
Leader: Mike Griffin, gabaptist.org/publicaffairs/
Public Affairs Representative, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
We want to see churches started all over Georgia. You can be a part of this. Let us show you how.
Leader: Jimmy Baughcum
Executive Director of the Atlanta Metro Baptist Association
The top problem in every church is raising and recruiting new leaders. You will walk away from this session with a tangible plan that is simple to implement and will result in new leaders stepping up into service through your Sunday school.
Leader: Marty Godfrey
Executive Pastor, Burnt Hickory Baptist Church, Powder Springs, GA
Tired of just lecture and discussion? In this interactive session you will participate in a variety of teaching and learning methods, and you will learn how to use these methods with your Bible study group.
Leader: Alan Raughton
Adult Ministry Specialist, LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, TN
We learn in different ways. We will explore how to use eight approaches to teaching-learning to help your group learn, remember, and live out God’s Word.
Leader: Lynn Pryor
Publishing Team Leader, Groups, LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, TN
When it comes to our Sunday school or groups community, how do we know it’s “making a difference?” In this session for pastors and church leaders, we’ll explore both what to look for and how we can directly impact our groups community.
Leader: Lane Lowery
Spiritual Formation Pastor, Warren Baptist Church, Augusta, GA
Learn to train your church members with an evangelism method that is as simple as meeting others in the normal rhythms of life and pointing them to Christ in an encouraging and inviting way. Join us for Gospel Conversations Training where you will learn:
• The simple front-end add-on that’s getting exponentially more church members engaged with lost people
• Case studies, stories, and examples that will inspire you for equipping your own church
• The exact approach they take to make evangelism “get traction” and take down fear-barriers in their people
You’ll get the inside scoop on how Johnson Ferry has ramped up evangelism and how your church can too. You’ll leave this session equipped to teach your church members how to transition everyday conversations to Gospel conversations!
Leader: Lee Taylor
Minister of Outreach, Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, Marietta, GA
Many women who are servants of God – loving Him and trying to represent Him to the extent of their human ability – sometimes grow discouraged when the demands of life and ministry seem to make the reality of holiness a lofty-spiritual concept that doesn’t seem consistently attainable. This session is filled with encouraging biblical truths clarifying and simplifying how to intentionally journey with Jesus that leads to wholeness and authenticity. It will give you new insights into how this impacts your ministry, because as you live so shall you lead.
Leader: Sheila West
Ministry Multiplier, LifeWay Resources, Nashville, TN
How do we really make disciples? Everybody has an opinion, and many of us have heard the facts and statics. In this breakout, we will talk about how to implement what is working to create life-long followers of Christ.
Leader: Mike Ricks
State Missionary, Student Ministry, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Note: Audio Quality Issues
Come and learn from two of Georgia’s best student choir leaders. You will hear some new ideas for you to use in your ministry. Learn some useful tools to enlist and sustain members.
Leader: Mark CottinghamExecutive Pastor, Worship and Arts Ministry, Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, Marietta, GA Leader: Sarah Cottingham
Youth Choir Director, Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, Marietta, GA
Bringing people together for great worship is essential. Rhon is a leading figure in multi-generational worship ministry. He will bring his successful recipe for effective multi-generational worship.
Leader: Rhon Carter
Worship Pastor, First Baptist Church, Statesboro, GA
Learn hands-on how to make your children choir rehearsals and worship leading more creative through the use of orff, percussion, bucket drumming, and movement combined with the child’s voice. Come and learn by playing, moving, and singing that will address grades K-6.
Leader: Carol James
Freelance Children’s Music Specialist and Percussionist
This session will be a discussion of what church video systems involve. Projection, camera gear, live streaming, and much more. We’ll discuss some cost-effective ways to get the most out of what you have and discuss where video production technology is heading in the future.
Leader: Jonathan Lawhon, warrenbaptist.org
Media Director, Warren Baptist Church, Augusta, GA
Involvement in WMU offers many opportunities for service and leadership. Shop with Debby for the best WMU shoe that fits you and the women you lead for an on-mission journey with Jesus.
Leader: Debby Akerman, wmu.com
President Elect, National Baptist Nursing Fellowship
There’s a lot that can change in the fast-paced world of social media in a short time. We’ll take this session to cover trends in social media networking in 2019, as well as how we can apply these to our ministries and churches. Be prepared to ask questions and share what your ministry currently does!
Leader: Linda Wilkins, LinkedIn | gabaptist.org/communications/
State Missionary, Communications, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Did you know that Generation Z now makes up about one-fourth of the U.S. population? They are not Millennials. How are they different? What are they experiencing? How can you reach them?
Leader: Steve Parr
Vice President for Staff Coordination, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Most of us would agree that parents are called to be the primary spiritual leaders of their kids, but what does this really look like today? In this seminar, we’ll talk about some biblical and practical ideas to help parents invest in their kids spiritually through leveraging teachable moments, celebrating spiritual milestones, and creating lasting memories. We’ll also talk about how to incorporate these ideas into a healthy and effective parent ministry in your church.
Leader: Jamie Willis, lakewoodlife.orgStudent Pastor, Lakewood Baptist, Gainesville, GA
Many things may be changing in today’s technological world, but a support office professional who wants to be considered “professional” will make it a matter of utmost importance to know the basic business English and grammar rules that show her/him to be a skillful writer. As a ministry assistant, you want to make the best possible impression for your pastor/supervisor, your church/organization, yourself, for Christ, and His church. We’ll review the rules and discuss some changes in the rules. And, we’ll have fun while we do it. Trust me!
Leader: Sandra SartorTrainer/Consultant, OPT for Success, Cleveland, GA
NOTE: Session Recording Ends Early
This session will aid in discovering your purpose in Christ and gaining the skills to fulfill that purpose.
Leader: Michael Flowers
State RA & Camp Kaleo Director, State Missionary, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
What is your strategy for reaching young families in your community? Are they working? In this session we’ll explore some effective strategies to connect families in your community to your church.
Leader: Mitch Bellflower, fbclyons.org
Children’s Pastor, First Baptist Church, Lyons, GA
God has created us to play. Let’s explore fun games that help preschoolers learn biblical truths.
Leader: Landry Holmes, kidsministry.lifeway.comManager, LifeWay Kids Publishing, LifeWay Resources, Nashville, TN
God’s plan has always been to use the significant adults in the lives of kids to teach them spiritual truths. Are today’s parents equipped to do that? Many are not. This conference will challenge you to be proactive in connecting with kids’ families, as well as giving them a plan to help your church better connect with families and families to connect with their own kids.
Leader: Susan AllenMinister to Children, First Baptist Church, Statesboro, GA
Help kids develop Bible skills and a love for God’s Word. Join us for some fun and creative ideas you can use in your class at church this week. Conference attendees will receive a Bible Skill Resource for use with the kids in your class.
Leader: Maria Brannen
Churches need to be aware of what can and cannot be included in a donor contribution statement or letter. Tithes, Restricted Offerings, and the accounting of each have legal requirements for the church. Make sure your church knows what it must and must not do in order to be above reproach legally.
Leader: Tony Neal, gabaptist.org/churchadministration/State Missionary, Church Administration, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
“Hey Tim … how do we get started with Facility Budgeting?” I hear that a lot from pastors, XP’s, business admins, facility managers, and lay people. It is a universal concern. It is important to understand when you realize that the operation and care of our ministry facilities is almost always the second or third largest budget expenditure in a church budget. When you are budgeting for your facilities, there are four primary buckets that need to be considered.
The 4 Buckets include:
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Operations – the day to day stuff
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Deferred Maintenance – a growing epidemic in the church world
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Capital Reserves – planning for the inevitable costs of capital replacement
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Projects – new shiny stuff
Leader: Tim Cool, LinkedIn | Facebook
Chief Solutions Officer, Cool Solutions Group, Charlotte, NC
This session will help deacons see the spiritual importance of their role and raise the level of expectations in the deacons’ ministry. We will discuss innovative ways to encourage the deacons in connecting with the congregation and church leadership.
Leader: Bryan Alexander, gabaptist.org/churchministerrelations/
State Missionary, Church Minister Relations, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
We will discuss a practical approach to developing a missional strategy for your local church, brainstorm available resources, and explore opportunities for connecting with missional partners.
Leader: Stuart Lang, gabaptist.org/communitymissions/
State Missionary, Community Missions and Disaster Response, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Students are a great source of energy for your church – if you know how to effectively connect them. This breakout will review lots of ways for the church to connect with them and give them significant opportunities to grow and serve.
Leader: Chris Bryan, gabcm.org
Sr. Campus Minister, Georgia Southern University, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
This is a comprehensive study on how the church can reach out to the LGBT community without compromising the Gospel and the integrity of church membership. It is important that churches respond lovingly, but firmly, on Biblical truth.
Leader: Mike Griffin, gabaptist.org/publicaffairs/
Public Affairs Representative, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Often a Sunday school teacher tries to do it all or sometimes just shows up to teach. This session addresses the few things that every Sunday school teacher needs to know that will move him or her from a “good teacher” to an “exceptional teacher” of an exceptional class!
Leader: Marty Godfrey
Executive Pastor, Burnt Hickory Baptist Church, Powder Springs, GA
Our Sunday school is responsible to reach, teach, minister, and fellowship with people. You’ll learn responsibilities that others in your class need to shoulder so you can lead the group in effective Bible study.
Leader: Alan Raughton
Adult Ministry Specialist, LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, TN
We know growth doesn’t happen by accident, and we know the value of intentional, strategic planning. But what are the essential elements needed for a plan that can help us experience – and sustain – growth? We’ll unearth these together in this session.
Leader: Lane Lowery
Spiritual Formation Pastor, Warren Baptist Church, Augusta, GA
An overview of LifeWay’s Bible study curriculum choices, highlighting the benefits and features of each one.
Leader: Lynn Pryor
Publishing Team Leader, Groups LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, TN
Whether your kids have corporate worship time together on Sunday, Wednesday, or any other time during the week, you can make sure the time is spent elevating God’s Word, teaching biblical truth, and sharing the Gospel. Learn about resources that will help your children’s worship explode with excitement.
Leader: Scott PatrickPastor to Children, First Baptist Church, Douglasville, GA
Scott is a leading figure in multi-generational worship ministry. Bringing people together has its challenges to be sure, but when they gather, it feels like home! Scott will share concepts of working through change and intentional planning that connects with all generations.
Leader: Scott Allred
Associate Pastor, Music First Baptist Church, Jonesboro, GA
This session will be a discussion of what it takes to effectively lead a worship band. We’ll talk about congregational leadership, worship planning, team communication, and much more! These sessions will also include a Q&A time with a live band on some of the practices and principles they make a priority for each week.
Leader: Joel Goddard, joelgoddard.org
Worship Pastor, Bethlehem Church, Bethlehem, GA
Superheroes and ministry. Ministers find themselves dealing with conflict, managing schedules, planning worship, leading choirs, and a myriad of duties that are placed on the desk. Mixed with another job and home responsibilities, the task can be daunting. Steve has experienced this personally. His insights in leadership will provide the tools needed to serve with effectiveness and joy!
Leader: Steve Brown
Join other women’s ministry leaders from your area to exchange ideas about effective ministry with women in the church.
Leader: Beverly Skinner, georgiabaptistwomen.org
State Missionary, Georgia Baptist Women, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Join WMU President, Lisa Thompson, to dialogue about the future of missions discipleship for all ages in the local church. Learn about missions discipleship curriculum updates, and share ideas to promote missions involvement.
Leader: Lisa Thompson, georgiabaptistwomen.org
Georgia WMU President, Baptist Woman’s Missionary Union of Georgia
Good Design makes the difference in whether someone engages with your content or keeps scrolling. This workshop will look at how to use Canva, a free, web-based application, to create compelling graphics for screens, social media, and print. Create compelling design to communicate the Gospel.
Leader: Alan Smith, calvaryga.com | LinkedInPastor of Marketing and Creative Arts, Calvary Baptist Church, Columbus, GA
Did you know that Generation Z now makes up about one-fourth of the U.S. population? They are not Millennials. How are they different? What are they experiencing? How can you reach them?
Leader: Steve Parr
Vice President for Staff Coordination, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Churches have natural drifts into silos. Ministry silos are multiple independent ministries operating under one roof. In this session, we will look at the importance of identifying silos and connecting them. Intentional alignment is a game changer for churches and the families entrusted to them. We are better together!
Leader: Cody Turner
Next Gen, Church on the Square LaGrange, LaGrange, GA
John has a heart for reaching influencers of students through campus ministry and helping leaders leverage their uniqueness in reaching students. In this breakout, you will discover how to grow the kingdom and your church by being an influencer in your community.
Leader: John Oliver
Youth Pastor, Rosemont Baptist Church, LaGrange, GA
Is Vacation Bible School a program with a long legacy that needs to be put out to the proverbial pasture? Is it really worth all the time, energy, and money? In this session, participants will hear the truth about VBS and be exposed to the myths that keep churches from reaching their community with the gospel through VBS. Come be encouraged by the latest research which clearly shows VBS is not a program to save, but a vibrant and effective tool to reach our communities for Christ.
Leader: Melita Thomas
VBS & Kids Specialist, LifeWay Resources, Nashville, TN
Whether you teach a small group of kids or a large group, in this session you’ll hear a veteran kids minister share the three parts of preparation – spiritual preparation, Bible study preparation, and teaching/activity preparation.
Leader: Maria Brannen
Do you ever feel like you’re stuck in a rut in kids ministry? Come learn from one of the most creative family pastors in the country to see how you can take the kids ministry at your church to the next level.
Leader: Bill Hegedus
Family Pastor, Bethlehem Church, Bethlehem, GA
The average adult vocabulary is over 60,000 words. We use those words to form hundreds and thousands of messages – some simple messages with BIG impact. In this session, participants will consider six phrases that kids need to hear to help them become who God created them to be.
Leader: Bill Emeott
Children’s Pastor, First Baptist Church,Houston, TX
Creativity in Kids Ministry
This session will review touching lives through meeting physical and spiritual needs through the church or association by putting on a dental project with the Baptist Mobile Health Ministry.
Leader: Ted Kandler, gabaptist.org/bmhm/
State Missionary, Baptist Mobile Health Ministry, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
In this class, you will learn some best practices when receiving and protecting contributions given to the church, ensuring funds received are accounted for, and are deposited intact and whole. Part 1 will focus on contribution receipts, while Part 2 will focus on protection of the church in dealing with contributions.
Leader: Tony Neal
State Missionary, Church Administration, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
When you hear the words “visitor” and “guest,” do you consider them synonymous? Do you think we are splitting hairs by looking for a distinction between the two terms? I believe we must be intentional with the words we use. In this session, we will explore some simple – but intentional – adjustments that can transform your guests’ experience. If we believe that our “church” is actually not for those regularly attending but rather for those not here yet, then why would we not take steps to make this the best experience ever.
Leader: Tim Cool, LinkedIn | Facebook
Chief Solutions Officer Cool Solutions Group, Charlotte, NC
Every preacher realizes their personal inadequacy when it comes to the demands of preaching week in and week out. Anthony George, associate pastor and frequent preacher at FBC Atlanta, will unpack helpful disciplines that can enhance both your preparation and preaching as you depend upon the power of the Holy Spirit to proclaim God’s Word.
Leader: Anthony George
Associate Pastor, First Baptist Atlanta
This session will center around preventative and actions steps to take at the church to discourage an active shooter. The discussion will include actions to take if your church has an active shooter and the gun law in Georgia.
Leader: Ben O’Neal
Security Manager, Operations, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Your child is heading off to college and the two of you have no clue how to navigate what’s coming. In the world of shifting roles and expectations, discover ways to maneuver the path of “adulting” with your child; including critical thinking, problem solving, life skills, etc., while still loving and respecting one another.
Leader: Rick Jenkins, gabcm.org
Campus Minister, Columbus State University, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
This session is about the theological and philosophical approach that churches should have regarding the rights of Religious Liberty in our country. Its goal is to help church leaders leave with a practical understanding that promotes evangelism and missions.
Leader: Mike Griffin, gabaptist.org/publicaffairs/
Public Affairs Representative, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Too many classes have become inward focused and have forgotten the importance of outreach in their groups. In this session we will uncover some ways you can reach out to others and refocus your class or group to make evangelism a priority.
Leader: Scott Crow
Pastor of Discipleship and Administration, Mount Zion Baptist Church, Snellville, GA
Developing a healthy spiritual life as a leader protects against burnout and equips a leader to equip other leaders. Together we will look at steps to enhance our spiritual lives. We will discuss ways to be healthy leaders and how to help other leaders grow. Spiritual leaders influence more than they direct and they inspire more than they instruct. They intuitively recognize that they are serving something – and someone – larger than themselves and their own objectives. How are you developing your spiritual life?
Leader: Barry Thompson
Pastor of Prayer, Care and Adult 65+, Midway Church, Villa Rica, GA
Plateaued, declining, and lukewarm churches need a spiritual revitalization, not just a cosmetic fix. Examine a new tool and biblical process to guide your church to hear and respond to what the Spirit is saying to the church.
Leader: Claude King
Discipleship and Church Health Specialists, LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, TN
Looking at how others build disciples in the past can give us some insights into how we can build disciples today. During this session, Sunday school directors will review some of the personal notes of the first person to ever carry the title of LifeWay’s Director of Sunday School, Arthur Flake, identifying principles we can utilize today.
Leader: Dwayne McCrary
Project Team Leader, LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, TN
Be genuine. The only connections that work will be the ones that you truly care about; the world will see through anything short of that. If you don’t have a genuine interest in the person with whom you’re trying to connect, then stop trying and focus on loving people. To connect unconnected people through Bible study we focus on people’s desire for relationships and how to help them get involved with ministry. Connecting through fellowship is possible when churches develop ways for helping people live together as God’s family through small groups. How can we improve helping people connect in our group?
Leader: Barry Thompson
Pastor of Prayer, Care and Adult 65+, Midway Church, Villa Rica, GA
Come and learn from two of Georgia’s best student choir leaders. You will hear some new ideas for you to use in your ministry. Learn some useful tools to enlist and sustain members.
Leader: Mark CottinghamExecutive Pastor, Worship and Arts Ministry, Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, Marietta, GA Leader: Sarah Cottingham
Youth Choir Director, Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, Marietta, GA
Offering encouragement, support, and solutions to reignite your passion for the call of service through music. A look at new keyboard books by Mary McDonald will be included in this session.
Leader: Mary McDonald, marymcdonaldmusic.com
Freelance Composer
As founder and director of Radiance Ministries, Ray brings effective insights for today’s leader. This breakout is for pastors, ministers of music, and other staff leadership. Ray will provide relevant helps dealing with change, conflict, depression, and spiritual development; all of which are vital to long term survival in ministry.
Leader: Ray Jones
President and Founder, Radiance Ministries, San Antonio, TX
With worship style changes, we may often be at a loss on how to best utilize the organ in a particular worship venue. The beauty of the organ, considered the king of all instruments, is that we have so many sounds at our disposal. It is like NO other. Let’s learn how to utilize this instrument for varying worship styles and keep the organ a vital part of worship.
Leader: Rebekah Cottingham
Organist/Accompanist, Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, Marietta, GA
Learn by playing and singing music that lets children lead in corporate worship/multi-generational worship.
Leader: Carol James
Freelance Children’s Music Specialist and Percussionist
This session will be a discussion of what church video systems involve. Projection, camera gear, live streaming, and much more. We’ll discuss some cost-effective ways to get the most out of what you have and discuss where video production technology is heading in the future.
Leader: Jonathan Lawhon, warrenbaptist.org
Media Director, Warren Baptist Church, Augusta, GA
Join us for a session packed with ideas of how you can create interest in missions and sustain exciting women’s missions events and activities. We will discuss how to build healthy groups and motivate women to engage in a lifelong missions journey. Leaders and members alike can work together to create experiences that appeal to women of all generations. Let’s be women alive!
Leader: Linda Clark
Adult Field Strategist National Woman’s Missionary Union
Join us as we discuss the leadership skills needed to guide a successful team. We will explore ways to enhance your God-given passion, personality, and leadership style to develop an effective team. Come discover innovative ways to help you build a team that is ready to accomplish kingdom tasks with attention to detail, a spirit of enthusiasm, and Christ-honoring focus! “Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things.” (Peter F. Drucker) Ladies, we will highlight the “right” stuff for leadership development.
Leader: Cindy Townsend, Facebook
Women’s Minister, First Baptist Church, Jackson, MS
In this fast-paced workshop, video producer, Jon Graham offers 10 suggestions for using video to enhance your worship service or grow your outreach – complete with quick “how-to” segments for each idea and a survey of the tools needed to accomplish these goals.
Leader: Jon Graham, LinkedIn | Twitter
State Missionary, Communications, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
The family arrives on Sunday morning together. They then move to different locations of the church for Bible study and worship. After the closing prayer, they reconvene in the parking lot. Our physical disconnectedness is resulting in a spiritual disconnectedness. Let’s talk about how the church can help the family stay spiritually connected. We will discuss some principles and strategies for partnering with parents so the ministry we provide students does not end when they leave the church property.
Leader: Brent Baskin, youthministryforfree.com
Associate Professor of Christian Studies, Shorter University, Rome, GA
Let’s be honest. There is no such thing as part-time ministry. In this session, we will look at overcoming the challenges we face from week to week as “part-timers,” and discuss ways that will allow us to be more effective in what God has called us to do.
Leaders: Clint and Heather Whitlock
Youth Leaders, Mt. Gilead Baptist Church, Griffin, GA
There is so much power in community. In the U.S. during 2017, more than $400 billion was given to charities, and more than 30% of that to religious organizations. Get some tools to help you harness the power of your community to do more for your community.
Leader: Mark Walker, generush.org | facebook.com/generushgivingBusiness Solutions Advisor, Assemblies of God Credit Union/ Generush
Come learn how to fund your church can fund ministry with resources above and beyond the typically tithes and offerings.
Leader: Sam Warner, Twitter, gbcfoundation.orgVice President of Development, Georgia Baptist Foundation
As teachers we often want to teach in the ways we like to learn best. This approach may not always meet the needs of the preschoolers we teach. This session will explore the ways God made preschoolers to learn and help teachers harness unique learning approaches to meet the needs of every child in the classroom.
Leader: Melita Thomas
VBS & Kids Specialist, LifeWay Resources, Nashville, TN
Children sometimes have misconceptions about salvation, what it means to be a Christian, and how to become a Christian. In this session you’ll learn some great ways to have conversations with children that will lead them to Christ.
Leader: Bill Hegedus
Family Pastor, Bethlehem Church, Bethlehem, GA
Never underestimate what God can do in anyone’s life but especially in the heart and life of someone with special needs. In this session you’ll learn ways to share the Gospel with all children from a Special Needs Champion.
Leader: Monec Johnson
Director of Thrive, First Baptist Church, Woodstock, GA
Good teachers come in all shapes, sizes, ages, and personalities, but certain habits seem to separate effective teachers from the less effective. In this conference, participants will learn skills that can move teachers from “just okay” to highly effective.
Leader: Bill Emeott
Children’s Pastor, First Baptist Church,Houston, TX
Understanding a culture is the best way to understand a people. This session will help you interact with, engage, and witness to the Korean people in your area by understanding their culture.
Leader: Yong Nam Suh
State Missionary, Intercultural Church Planting and Mission Ministry, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
In this class, you will learn some best practices when receiving and protecting contributions given to the church, ensuring funds received are accounted for, and are deposited intact and whole. Part 1 will focus on contribution receipts, while Part 2 will focus on protection of the church in dealing with contributions.
Leader: Tony Neal
State Missionary, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
NOTE: Some audio quality issues
The church campus tells a story. Stories are all around us, in virtually every aspect of our daily experiences, which means that our church and ministry facilities also tell a story. Tim Cool offers a unique perspective on the importance of church buildings. These buildings are vastly more important than most understand. The church campus and the story of the people in the church go hand-in-hand and are interwoven into each other. We cannot neglect the power of story and how our church facilities communicate a story. In this session, several key questions about church facilities are answered: How does church space support the story of the people? How does the church space prime the heart, minds, and emotions of your guests? How does your facility bring people into the story of the church?
Leader: Tim Cool
Chief Solutions Officer, Cool Solutions Group, Charlotte, NCLinkedIn | Facebook
Every preacher realizes their personal inadequacy when it comes to the demands of preaching week in and week out. Anthony George, associate pastor and frequent preacher at FBC Atlanta, will unpack helpful disciplines that can enhance both your preparation and preaching as you depend upon the power of the Holy Spirit to proclaim God’s Word.
Leader: Anthony George
Associate Pastor, First Baptist Atlanta
If you were to take a poll on church preferences in the areas of worship styles, preaching, and ministry approaches, you would be overwhelmed by the assortment of opinions. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could take polar opposites and guide them to meet in the middle for something bigger than their preferences? This session will strive to do just that! Join us as we discuss practical ways of combining different church models for a unified approach to reach our communities for Christ!
Leader: Jacob Griffin
Associate Pastor, Carnes Creek Baptist Church, Toccoa, GA
In this session we will discuss response efforts following Hurricane Michael, including lessons learned and how church teams and credentialed DR volunteers can partner more effectively for future disaster responses.
Leader: Stuart Lang and David Self
State Missionary, Community Missions and Disaster Response, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Students are a great source of energy for your church – if you know how to effectively connect them. This breakout will review lots of ways for the church to connect with them and give them significant opportunities to grow and serve.
Leader: Joe Graham
Lead State Missionary, Collegiate Ministry, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
gabcm.org
This is a comprehensive study on how the church can reach out to the LGBT community without compromising the Gospel and the integrity of church membership. It is important that churches respond lovingly, but firmly, on biblical truth.
Leader: Mike Griffin
Public Affairs Representative, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
gabaptist.org/publicaffairs/
Being a Sunday School Director is more than “collecting attendance sheets” and “ringing the dismissal bell.” Join us as we discover the essential ingredients for leading the Sunday school organization to fulfill the Great Commission.
Leader: Scott Crow
Pastor of Discipleship and Administration, Mount Zion Baptist Church, Snellville, GA
Preparation puts us in a position to be at our best. During this session, we will examine how to prepare to lead a Bible study group by looking at five questions we must answer every week.
Leader: Dwayne McCrary
Project Team Leader, LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, TN
Identify the stages of spiritual maturity and learn tools you can use to move people from one state to the next. Develop a strategy for multiplying mature disciples who become disciple makers.
Leader: Claude King
Discipleship and Church Health Specialists, LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, TN
Hear the top 10 rehearsal ideas to take your choir to new heights! Ken is one of the country’s finest choral leaders. He brings a wealth of experience to the ministry table. Your choir is part of the proclamation ministry of the church. Ken will present meaningful helps to improve your choir’s effectiveness.
Leader: Ken Gabrielse
Dean of Music, Truett McConnell University, Cleveland, GA
Learn tips and strategies on how to lead kids worship no matter the size of church attendance, budget, or number of volunteers you may have.
Leader: Scott Patrick
Pastor to Children, First Baptist Church, Douglasville, GA
Come and learn about how to have effective orchestra rehearsals, new ideas for enlistment, and how to sustain your church orchestra program.
Leader: Duane Warfield, shorter.edu
Associate Professor of Music, Director of Bands Shorter University, Rome, GA
What do I do with my hands? My choir doesn’t read music – what now? We are a small choir – can we be effective? These are common questions relative to smaller-attendance churches. Discover tips to make even a small choir make a BIG impact in your worship service.
Leader: Steve Brown
Learn practical tips for working with a director, reading cues, communication, expectations, and relationships. Come ready to share and discuss.
Leader: Mary McDonald, marymcdonaldmusic.com
Freelance Composer
Have you ever found yourself in a well of discouragement and anxiety? If so, you are in good company. Most all of the biblical heroes of the faith experienced such discouragement and anguish as they followed the Lord. Most of the godly men and women I know today have spent their share of time in the deep, dark well of discouragement and anxiety, too. This conference will help you when “all is hell in your life” to claim biblical truths so all can be “well in your soul.”
Leader: Cindy Townsend, Facebook
Women’s Minister, First Baptist Church, Jackson, MS
Summer Camp experiences create perfect environments for girls to know God and explore His plan for their lives. Discover ways you can get your girls involved and hear stories of what He has done.
Leader: Tabitha Ferrell, camppinnacle.net
State Missionary, Georgia Baptist Women, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
This session will focus on the “soft side” of leadership, the character traits we look for in successful leaders. Among others, we’ll investigate the parts attitude, humor, communication, variety, and convictions play in becoming an effective leader. You will leave our time together holding reminders of 10 qualities you should possess as a Christian woman leader.
Leader: Linda Clark
Adult Field Strategist, National Woman’s Missionary Union
Are you looking for the latest ideas and resources to renew your website or improve your online presence? In this session we will cover the must haves and cool haves to enhance the web reality of your church. Join us for fresh ideas, free resources, and practical Q&A. Leave with a MEGA LIST OF FREEBIES!
Leader: Barry Dollar,LinkedIn
State Missionary, Communications, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Use simple print and mailing tips to tell your story, and help your members tell theirs!
Leader: Paul Bragg
Lawrence Ink/Crimson Ink, Atlanta, GA
Small Shifts = Big Dividends! Working together, we can empower parents with a passionate plan to make disciples who make disciples! In this breakout we will give you three awesome “shifts” to grow your ministry. In the process, we will describe for you the vision of the new Georgia Baptist Student Ministry. You might think you know what we do and why we do it, but give us this chance to empower you with tools, information, and three proven “shifts” that could explode your ministry. And we will give you candy!
Leader: Ricky SmithPastor, Calvary Baptist Church, Columbus, GA
Leaders: Cameron Wilkins, Mike Ricks, and Kimberely Outz
State Missionaries, Student Ministry, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Unleash Generosity for This Generation and the Next
Discover the latest trends, best practices, and ministries that drive a generosity overflow for this generation and the next.
Leader: Todd McMichen
Director of Generosity by LifeWay
Have you lost some of the passion for your ministry that you had when you first began? Are things beginning to become the “same old same old?” We have been called to Kingdom work, but Kingdom work can be draining — physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. In this conference, we will discuss ways to keep the enthusiasm— the “fire” — burning in our ministry.
Leader: Sandra Sartor
Trainer/Consultant, OPT for Success, Cleveland, GA
Effective volunteers need to know what’s expected from them, and they need to be trained to be successful in their role. In this session, you’ll learn ways to train your volunteers, as well as develop relationships with them so that you don’t have to constantly replace volunteers because of burn-out. Mitch has a proven method of developing leaders who stick with their job for years, so come learn from his vast experience.
Leader: Mitch Bellflower
Children’s Pastor, First Baptist Church, Lyons, GA
Do you have a ministry to children with special needs at your church or have you considered beginning this type of ministry? Come learn some of the basic things your church can do from someone who has a heart for special needs ministry and has the experience to help others.
Leader: Monec Johnson
Director of Thrive, First Baptist Church, Woodstock, GA
Are you ready to be a “next-level” teacher? Embracing a few simple strategies can make a huge difference in transforming a good teacher into a next-level teacher. Come discover ways to maximize your effectiveness as a teacher and take your sessions to the next level.
Leader: Melita Thomas
VBS & Kids Specialist, LifeWay Resources, Nashville, TN
We’ve all meant to be gospel centered, but are we really? Come learn what putting Jesus at the center of your kids ministry really means. Learn how being intentional in four areas can result in a Christ-centered, transformational kids ministry that sticks.
Leader: Bill Emeott
Children’s Pastor, First Baptist Church,Houston, TX
Understanding a culture is the best way to understand a people. This session will help you interact with, engage, and witness to the Hispanic people in your area by understanding their culture.
Leader: Ovidio Cabrera
State Missionary, Intercultural Church Planting and Mission Ministry, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
In the world of IoT, how IT and facilities integrate is becoming more mainstream than ever before. This session shows how HVAC integrates with event scheduling and how the use of mobile devices can track work orders and inventory, schedule events, project the life cycle of the facilities/equipment/assets … so on and so on. In addition, the trend toward full integration of electrical systems and access/security systems is on the rise. The church world needs to be aware of these IoT options and utilize the ones that fit their vision and mission all the while increasing operational and energy efficiencies. The future is NOW!
Leader: Tim Cool, LinkedIn | Facebook
Chief Solutions Officer, Cool Solutions Group, Charlotte, NC
Learn to train your church members with an evangelism method that is as simple as meeting others in the normal rhythms of life and pointing them to Christ in an encouraging and inviting way. Join us for Gospel Conversations Training where you will learn:
• The simple front-end add-on that’s getting exponentially more church members engaged with lost people
• Case studies, stories, and examples that will inspire you for equipping your own church
• The exact approach they take to make evangelism “get traction” and take down fear-barriers in their people
You’ll get the inside scoop on how Johnson Ferry has ramped up evangelism and how your church can too. You’ll leave this session equipped to teach your church members how to transition everyday conversations to Gospel conversations!
Leader: Lee Taylor, Facebook
Minister of Outreach, Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, Marietta, GA
Conflict coaching is defined as a set of skills and strategies used to support peoples’ ability to engage in, manage, or productively resolve conflict. In this process, the conflict coach works one-on-one with a coachee experiencing conflict with another person. In this breakout session we will discuss the skills needed to be a successful conflict coach.
Leader: Marty Youngblood
State Missionary, Church Minister Relations, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Rodney holds a PhD in Communications and is the Founder/CEO of Connexus Group specializing in the disciplines of Executive Coaching, Corporate Culture-Shaping, and Leadership Development. In this session, Rodney brings practical, straight-forward ideas and solutions that can help you or your organization to get off the plateau you are on so you can realize your potential.
Leader: Rodney Agan, theconnexusgroup.com |twitter.com/rodneyagan
Founder/CEO, The Connexus Group
Students have it. Everyone talks about it. In today’s angst-driven society, everyone is trying to figure out how to “deal with” their stress. Stress-coping videos are the number one climbing trend on YouTube, and CDC research shows the rise in anxiety among students. This should signal to the church that we need to talk about how to teach students to cope with anxiety. We will discuss the current trends of how society says to cope and what the church should be doing. We must help students understand the difference between healthy anxiety vs. unhealthy anxiety.
Leader: Sarah Farley, gabcm.org
Campus Minister, University of Georgia, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
This session is about the theological and philosophical approach that churches should have regarding the rights of Religious Liberty in our country. Its goal is to help church leaders leave with a practical understanding that promotes evangelism and missions.
Leader: Mike Griffin, gabaptist.org/publicaffairs/
Public Affairs Representative, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
We want to see churches started all over Georgia. You can be a part of this. Let us show you how.
Leader: Jimmy Baughcum
Executive Director of the Atlanta Metro Baptist Association
Leading a Sunday school class is not for the faint of heart. In this session we will discover the roles and responsibilities of the person who has been called to lead a group.
Leader: Scott Crow
Pastor of Discipleship and Administration, Mount Zion Baptist Church, Snellville, GA
Our posture or attitude is important when leading a Bible study group. During this session, we will discover three postures every Sunday school leader should carry.
Leader: Dwayne McCrary
Project Team Leader, LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, TN
Leadership is knowing what needs to be done and knowing how to gather/inspire the people needed to accomplish the goal. Together we will look at key questions to ponder as a leader and questions to develop leaders. Wise leaders ask questions before stating directions. How do you identify possible future leaders in your church and invest the time to help them develop?
Leader: Barry Thompson
Pastor of Prayer, Care and Adult 65+, Midway Church, Villa Rica, GA
Based on “The Battle Plan for Prayer,” Prayer Boot Camp is a process to help others experientially learn to pray effectively, specifically, strategically, and scripturally. Receive all the free downloadable resources you will need to lead on your own.
Leader: Claude King
Discipleship and Church Health Specialists, LifeWay Christian Resources Nashville, TN
Tools for an Effective Student Choir (Part 1; Part 2 is in Breakout 3)
Come and learn from two of Georgia’s best student choir leaders. You will hear some new ideas for you to use in your ministry. Learn some useful tools to enlist and sustain members.
Leader: Mark CottinghamExecutive Pastor, Worship and Arts Ministry, Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, Marietta, GA Leader: Sarah Cottingham
Youth Choir Director, Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, Marietta, GA
NOTE: This episode has technical audio issues
There’s a lot that can change in the fast-paced world of social media in a short time. We’ll take this session to cover trends in social media networking in 2019, as well as how we can apply these to our ministries and churches. Be prepared to ask questions and share what your ministry currently does!
Leader: Linda Wilkins, LinkedIn | gabaptist.org/communications/
State Missionary, Communications, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Come learn how your church can fund ministry with resources above and beyond their typical tithes and offerings.
Leader: Sam Warner, Twitter, gbcfoundation.orgVice President of Development, Georgia Baptist Foundation
“Hey Tim … how do we get started with Facility Budgeting?” I hear that a lot from pastors, XP’s, business admins, facility managers, and lay people. It is a universal concern. It is important to understand when you realize that the operation and care of our ministry facilities is almost always the second or third largest budget expenditure in a church budget. When you are budgeting for your facilities, there are four primary buckets that need to be considered.
The 4 Buckets include:
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Operations – the day to day stuff
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Deferred Maintenance – a growing epidemic in the church world
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Capital Reserves – planning for the inevitable costs of capital replacement
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Projects – new shiny stuff
Leader: Tim Cool, LinkedIn | Facebook
Chief Solutions Officer, Cool Solutions Group, Charlotte, NC
We will discuss a practical approach to developing a missional strategy for your local church, brainstorm available resources, and explore opportunities for connecting with missional partners.
Leader: Stuart Lang, gabaptist.org/communitymissions/
State Missionary, Community Missions and Disaster Response, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Helpful hints to giving wings to the notes and flight to the hands for a more dramatic, effective presentation from the piano.
Leader: Mary McDonald, marymcdonaldmusic.com
Freelance Composer
For over 47 years, HH Architects has provided Architectural, Interior Design, Strategic Positioning and Master Planning services to clients ranging from churches to municipal entities to schools to corporate buildings. They approach projects from the client’s perspective and by building upon your image and identity, HH Architects strives for creative solutions that meet the Project’s scope, schedule, and budget.
Bruce Woody
President/CEO, HH Architects, Dallas TX
Most of us would agree that parents are called to be the primary spiritual leaders of their kids, but what does this really look like today? In this seminar, we’ll talk about some biblical and practical ideas to help parents invest in their kids spiritually through leveraging teachable moments, celebrating spiritual milestones, and creating lasting memories. We’ll also talk about how to incorporate these ideas into a healthy and effective parent ministry in your church.
Leader: Jamie Willis, lakewoodlife.orgStudent Pastor, Lakewood Baptist, Gainesville, GA
Ministering to women in various stages of life – all with diverse needs and life circumstances and in different places of spiritual development – can be a daunting task. In this session you will explore a simple but very helpful way to evaluate and review the expanse, depth, and effectiveness of your ministry to women. You will learn the right questions to ask, and various ministries to offer, to meet the spiritual needs of the women you serve.
Leader: Cindy Townsend, Facebook | firstbaptistjackson.org
Women’s Minister, First Baptist Church, Jackson, MS
It’s never too early to start thinking about Vacation Bible School! Join LifeWay’s Specialist for a first look at LifeWay’s VBS for summer 2020. This session features an overview of the theme and biblical content as well as a sneak peek at the VBS music and decorations.
Leader: Melita Thomas, LinkedIn | kidsministry.lifeway.com
VBS & Kids Specialist, LifeWay Resources, Nashville, TN
Dr. Mark A. Croston, Sr., is the National Director of Black & Western Church Partnership at LifeWay Christian Resources. Dr. Croston has served as President and Treasurer of the National African American Fellowship of the Southern Baptist Convention; President of the Baptist General Association of Virginia; and President of the Virginia Baptist State Convention. He is the author or contributor to several books including Big Results: Sunday School and Black Church Life; Removing the Stain of Racism from the SBC; The Chosen Path, Seeds of Hope: Liberia and Virginia Baptists; From My Heart to Yours and Worship: How to Say to God I Love You. His doctoral dissertation is titled Intentional Christian Education in a Rural-Urban African American Church and Community. He is a sought after Conference Presenter, Revival Preacher, and a man on mission. Dr. Croston has traveled in almost 40 countries
Dr. Levi Skipper is the Evangelism Catalyst in Church Strengthening for the Georgia Baptist Mission Board. He met his wife, Christa, while in college. They were married in June of 2000 and have four children. He graduated from Shorter College with a Christian Ministry degree in 2000, a Master of Divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 2004, and a Doctorate of Ministry from Luther Rice University in 2009. He has written two books, Marriage In The Red and Spiritual Avalanche. He is passionate about reaching others with the gospel of Jesus. Previously, Levi served as senior pastor at Concord Baptist Church in Clermont, GA, from November 2010 to May 2019. Through much prayer, Concord launched the “777 Vision” in 2014 in efforts to reach the 228,000+ unchurched in the surrounding counties of northeast Georgia. The 777 Vision strives to plant seven churches and be involved in ongoing mission efforts in seven countries within seven years. Through his leadership, Concord currently has five campuses and is involved in ongoing ministry in four countries including Brazil, Mexico, Uganda, and Haiti
Dr. Jamie Dew is the President of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary where he is also Professor of Christian Philosophy. Jamie came to Christ when he was 18 years old and surrendered to vocational ministry shortly thereafter. He earned a B.S. in Biblical Studies from Toccoa Falls College in Toccoa, GA in 2000 and then moved to Wake Forest, NC, to work on his graduate degrees. Graduating with an MDiv in 2004, he then earned a PhD in Theological Studies from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2008. Jamie pastored for 10 years, and also served in various churches as a Youth Pastor and Minister to Adults. This past spring he completed a second PhD in Philosophy from the University of Birmingham in England. He is also an accomplished author and editor. Jamie has been married to his wife, Tara, since 2000, and they have two sets of fraternal twins.
This is a comprehensive study on how the church can reach out to the LGBT community without compromising the Gospel and the integrity of church membership. It is important that churches respond lovingly, but firmly, on biblical truth.
Leader: Mike Griffin, gabaptist.org/publicaffairs/
Public Affairs Representative, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Ray’s passion for worship is tied directly to his passion to spread the Gospel. Building an evangelistic music ministry that goes outside the walls of the church is not only exciting – it is a mandate!
Leader: Ray Jones, radianceworship.org
President and Founder, Radiance Ministries, San Antonio, TX
Get acquainted with a process and tools to develop balanced and healthy disciples – who grow in their walk with Christ and carry His love and life to a lost and needy world.
Leader: Claude King, blog.lifeway.com/growingdisciples/
Discipleship and Church Health Specialists, LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, TN
Knowing why we do something is important and that is true for our Sunday schools. During this session, we will look at some of the” whys” over the years and develop an answer to the “why” behind Sunday school for today.
Leader: Dwayne McCrary, LinkedIn | groupministry.lifeway.comProject Team Leader, LifeWay Christian Resources, Nashville, TN
Learn hands-on how to make your children choir rehearsals and worship leading more creative through the use of percussion, bucket drumming, and movement combined with the child’s voice. Come and learn by playing, moving, and singing that will address grades K-6.
Leader: Carol James
Freelance Children’s Music Specialist and Percussionist
Learn to train your church members with an evangelism method that is as simple as meeting others in the normal rhythms of life and pointing them to Christ in an encouraging and inviting way. Join us for Gospel Conversations Training where you will learn:
• The simple front-end add-on that’s getting exponentially more church members engaged with lost people
• Case studies, stories, and examples that will inspire you for equipping your own church
• The exact approach they take to make evangelism “get traction” and take down fear-barriers in their people
You’ll get the inside scoop on how Johnson Ferry has ramped up evangelism and how your church can too. You’ll leave this session equipped to teach your church members how to transition everyday conversations to Gospel conversations!
Leader: Lee Taylor,Facebook
Minister of Outreach, Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, Marietta, GA
What is your strategy for reaching young families in your community? Are they working? In this session we’ll explore some effective strategies to connect families in your community to your church.
Leader: Mitch Bellflower, fbclyons.org
Children’s Pastor, First Baptist Church, Lyons, GA
This session will help deacons see the spiritual importance of their role and raise the level of expectations in the deacons’ ministry. We will discuss innovative ways to encourage the deacons in connecting with the congregation and church leadership.
Leader: Bryan Alexander, gabaptist.org/churchministerrelations/
State Missionary, Church Minister Relations, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Student ministry can take all of your time, but it’s usually not the only hat you wear. Learn several tools, hacks, and course corrections to get things done, feel effective, and even take a breath once in a while. Jon loves sharing with other youth pastors the stupid things he’s done and tools that have saved his bacon.
Leader: Jon Price, mybelmont.orgAssociate Pastor, Belmont Baptist Church, Calhoun, GA
God’s plan has always been to use the significant adults in the lives of kids to teach them spiritual truths. Are today’s parents equipped to do that? Many are not. This conference will challenge you to be proactive in connecting with kids’ families, as well as giving them a plan to help your church better connect with families and families to connect with their own kids.
Leader: Bill Emeott, LinkedIn | kidsministry.lifeway.com
Children’s Pastor, First Baptist Church,Houston, TX
This session will be a discussion of what church video systems involve. Projection, camera gear, live streaming, and much more. We’ll discuss some cost-effective ways to get the most out of what you have and discuss where video production technology is heading in the future. This will also include a Q&A time with Jim Thorne of Messenger Media on the latest trends in video system technologies.
Leader: Jonathan Lawhon, warrenbaptist.org
Media Director, Warren Baptist Church, Augusta, GA
Help kids develop Bible skills and a love for God’s Word. Join us for some fun and creative ideas you can use in your class at church this week. Conference attendees will receive a Bible Skill Resource for use with the kids in your class.
Leader: Maria Brannen
Conference Leader, Speaker, and Kids Ministry Specialist
Games, activities, and stories from God’s Word are all elements that begin to shape a preschooler’s faith. Get ideas for tools that can stand alone or be incorporated in other programs to help shape preschoolers view of God and others.
Leader: Karen Pace, georgiabaptistwomen.org
State Missionary, Georgia Baptist Women, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Being a Sunday school or small group leader is fun and rewarding, but it was never intended to be done in isolation. Join us as we discover how you can build a great ministry team in your class or group.
Leader: Scott Crow, mountzionsnellville.comPastor of Discipleship and Administration, Mount Zion Baptist Church, Snellville, GA
You can create meaningful and engaging worship experiences. Steve will share ideas to enrich your church’s worship – regardless of size. This is a class for any worship leader – full time or part time!
Leader: Steve Brown