2026 Break-Outs

Presenter: Brad Roth

Rural ministry can tug pastors and leaders in many directions at once. Are we doing enough? Or too much? How can we have the grace to know the difference? While Jesus calls us to be hungry for more--of his kingdom, of God's glory, of life with Him--he also invites us to abide in his steadfast presence. This breakout will explore how pastors/leaders can cultivate right ambition for rural ministry.

Presenter: Ron Klassen

Picture a town and country church that is not trying to imitate larger city churches but studies itself and its community and then prayerfully designs ministries uniquely suited for its place and time. This breakout will help this picture become a reality as we explore the distinctive characteristics – especially strengths – of the town and country church.

Presenter: Denise Kjesbo

Come learn what research shows are key elements of connection between home and church in the spiritual formation of children. In this breakout 3 areas will be discussed: intergenerational ministry, connecting parents with each other, and connecting parents to the church’s ministry.

Presenter: Mary Hendrickson

Come learn about a tool to use in times of conflict in your church (and elsewhere). This breakout will introduce Pathway to PEACE which gives five steps that invite the Spirit to redeem each conflict situation, that helps us to listen and respond with a heart like Jesus, and gives a reminder that we need to lift whatever we face to the Lord.

Presenter: Hector Franco

Rooted in God’s heart for all nations, this breakout connects biblical conviction with practical leadership. Drawing from years of ministry experience across cultures, Pastor Hector invites and provides insights for rural churches on how to pursue reaching all peoples- including those in our own backyards.

Panel Presenters: Gary Gilkinson, Jake King, Andy League, Tim & Cheryl Shekleton

Most of us know the value of serving long-term in one place. It gives us the privilege of journeying with people as they travel through different seasons of life—something not possible with shorter-term ministries. Longevity also can provide opportunity to bring about deep and long-lasting change in a church. So, in this breakout we will look to provide insights into core foundations, expectations, and practices that help sustain us for long-term ministry impact.

Presenter: Marty Giese

This breakout is especially for leaders who are from primarily urban/suburban ministry contexts and are now serving in rural or rural/urban (rurban) blended contexts. We’ll explore some of the key distinctives typical of rural culture and how those distinctives impact ministry leadership. You will be informed, encouraged, and equipped for greater effectiveness as a ministry leader.

Presenter: Tamara Hutsell

Many rural pastors feel stuck between honoring the church’s history and responding to a rapidly changing community. This breakout focuses on leading Spirit-led, relational, and sustainable changes in churches that may feel fragile, fatigued, or resistant. Through Scripture, practical leadership tools, and examples from rural congregations undergoing renewal, participants will learn to shift church culture, rebuild teams, and lead change at a pace that their people can follow.

Presenter: Jason McConnell

In a rural church, disciple-making thrives not through polished programs but through the rhythms for everyday life. Here, relationships matter more than rigid realities, personalities outweigh professionalism, authenticity and character carry more weight than credentials, and the informal over formal shapes discipleship. Disciple-making in this context is more about shared life, where the gospel is embodied in relationships, told through stories, and nurtured in ordinary moments that make rural community sacred. This breakout will provide a paradigm for making-disciples in a rural church that are authentic to the culture and values of rural life.

Panel Presentation - Alexandria Covenant Church Team

This workshop will equip church leaders with practical tools for faithful and effective organizational leadership that supports the church’s mission and maintains healthy relationships. Participants will explore key topics such as policies and procedures, best practices for ministry operations, human resources, financial oversight, staff benefits, and liability insurance. Designed for pastors, staff, and key volunteers, this workshop aims to strengthen stewardship, accountability, and sustainability so that the church can serve people well with clarity and integrity.

Presenter: Rollie Persson

This workshop will show you how your building can reflect your congregation’s values and support ministry. Often, buildings send unintended messages. We’ll explore how to view your church as a ministry tool, where every dollar spent on your facility serves your mission. The session will also cover recommended reserve funds and their importance.

Presenter: Rachel Hart

Why do we gather weekly for worship? And how do we plan creative, cohesive, and formational services week in and week out? Come engage in discussion around the biblical foundation for corporate worship, core values for planning worship services, and how to embrace strengths and grow in our challenge areas as service planners and worship leaders.