Participants are invited to take part in two workshop sessions designed to equip leaders, strengthen congregations, and deepen our shared ministry.

Friday, June 12, 2026

Session 1: 2:30–3:30 pm
Break: 3:30–3:50 pm
Session 2: 3:50–4:50 pm

How It Works

Each participant may attend one workshop per session
Workshops are offered in two rounds with different topics
No pre-registration required—simply attend your chosen session
Rooms are listed below for easy navigation onsite

Session 1 Workshops (2:30–3:30 pm)

Roots and Shoots: Youth Voices for the Church Today

Godly Play Room
Presenter: Deacon Laura Book & youth/young adult panel

What do young people really think about their faith and the church? This panel creates space to listen directly to youth and young adults as they share their experiences, questions, and hopes for the future of the church. Come ready to listen, learn, and engage across generations.

Congregational Safety and Preparedness Strategies Workshop

Outreach Room
Presenter: Pastor Jeremy Nausin

How can congregations faithfully prepare for safety and emergency situations? This session offers practical tools, shared learning, and supportive conversation to help leaders begin or strengthen safety planning in their communities.

Conflict Resolution & Relationship Restoration: Solving Today’s Issues

Leadership Room
Presenter: Teri J. Traaen, Ed.D., D.P.A.

Conflict is a part of every community. This workshop explores constructive ways to navigate conflict using interest-based problem solving. Participants will reflect on personal patterns, identify triggers, and develop healthier approaches to relationships in ministry.

Coaching as Developing a Meaningful Story

Room 8
Presenter: Rev. Philip Gustafson

Coaching can help leaders and congregations move forward with clarity and purpose. This session introduces ELCA coaching, includes a live demonstration, and offers insight into how coaching supports growth and faithful decision-making.

Common Legacy Giving Obstacles and How to Navigate Them

Room 17
Presenter: Lisa Marie Higginbotham, CFRE

Explore current trends in charitable giving and learn how to avoid common pitfalls in legacy planning. This workshop offers practical guidance for strengthening long-term generosity in your congregation.

Session 2 Workshops (3:50–4:50 pm)

Telling God’s Story Through Godly Play

Godly Play Room
Presenter: Kathye Hamm

Experience Godly Play as a way of entering deeply into the stories of faith. This session introduces how storytelling, wondering, and reflection can nurture spiritual growth for all ages.

AI in Ministry: Faithful Use and Practical Tools for Today

Outreach Room
Presenter: Brian Flatgard

Artificial intelligence is rapidly shaping how we communicate and work. This workshop explores both the theological questions and practical tools for using AI faithfully in ministry, including hands-on examples.

Congregational Vitality – Survey and More!

Leadership Room
Presenter: Karen Olson (with Mark Myers and Rev. David Pavesic)

What does a healthy congregation look like today? Learn how the Congregational Vitality process and survey can help assess and strengthen your congregation, with support from synod leaders.

Effective Reentry Ministry for Ordinary Congregations

Room 8
Presenter: Fred Nelson

Most congregations want to help but aren’t sure how to engage in reentry ministry. This workshop explores practical pathways for supporting individuals returning from incarceration, grounded in research and real-world application.

The Great Transition

Room 17
Presenter: Rev. Stewart McDonald

What is happening to the church we have known—and what might God be bringing to life next? This session places today’s changes within the broader story of the church, offering perspective, language, and hope.

Rooted in God’s Story—Equipped for What’s Next

These workshops reflect the reality that the church is both grounded and growing—rooted in God’s story, and continually being shaped for the future.

Whether you are seeking practical tools, deeper understanding, or fresh imagination for ministry, these sessions offer meaningful opportunities to learn, reflect, and connect.

Come ready to engage, listen, and grow together.