The Power of Story
Dr. William Lamb, Dogwood 2 A/B
In a world where AI is prominent for illustration and communication, it is easy to lose the value ofinterpersonal relationships. In this seminar, realizing the value of human interaction, together we will master our STORY as a model for sharing the Good News.
Camping 101
Regina Italiano, Johnson Spring 3
From budgeting on a dime to managing the pre-camp chaos, this breakout dives into the nitty-gritty of camp prep. We’ll follow a sample timeline to explore purchasing decisions, staffing, scheduling, and more—sharing real experiences of what has worked and what hasn’t so you can plan smarter for your next camp.
Theming Your Ministry
Omar Gonzalez, Johnson Spring 4
If there’s such a thing as writer’s block, there’s also director’s block. Our God is still speaking his word in many ways for his people/children/teens to know Him. And when you find the theme, how can you maximize the potential of such a message where it’s not just an art on a t-shirt but the heart of your camp/event where these children/teens will never forget this theme! Let’s amaze them with God through intentional themes.
Non-negotiables of KidMin Discipleship
Amber Pike, Dogwood C/D
If we want to see discipleship happen for the children in our ministry, there are some non-negotiables your kidmin needs to follow. From our view of the Bible and how we teach it, from doctrine and apologetics to a biblical worldview and the narrative we show, how we disciple boys and girls matters. Discover what non-negotiables your ministry needs to implement for discipleship to happen.
Discipulando las nuevas generaciones
Abigahil Avila, Johnson Spring 5 A/C
Desde Samuel hasta Josías, desde Ester hasta Juan el Bautista, Dios ha levantado a niños y jóvenes para cumplir Su propósito en cada generación. Jesús mismo afirmó que “de los niños es el reino de los cielos” y mostró cómo el poder de Dios puede multiplicarse a través de manos pequeñas —como los panes y los peces.
Este taller te inspirará y equipará para ver a las nuevas generaciones no solo como “el futuro de la iglesia”, sino como discípulos activos y portadores del Reino hoy. A la luz de Joel 2:28, Salmo 8:2 y Marcos 16:15, exploraremos cómo despertar en ellos una fe viva, una voz profética y una pasión por la misión de Dios.
“Y tus hijos profetizarán…” — el tiempo de discipularlos y enviarlos ha llegado.
Momentos de logros
Jonathan Olavarria, Johnson Spring 5 B/D
Los momentos de logros pueden servir como un recordatorio para los padres de la fidelidad de Dios, de su provisión y de su papel como principales formadores espirituales de sus hijos. Es más que una dedicación infantil o una graduación de quinto grado. Es una oportunidad para enseñar, equipar y bendecir.
10:30 – 11:30
Calling the Called
Bishop Duke Stone, Johnson Spring 2 A/C
During our time together, we will explore the responsibility to identify, equip, and release new leaders.
He Still Speaks
Bishop Paul Holt, Johnson Spring 1 B/F
Since the beginning, God has sought to communicate with His creation. In both the Old and New Testaments, God spoke to His people. He even spoke to Moses as a friend to a friend. God still speaks today, but are we listening?
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit is saying. To know the will of God, our sense of hearing must be developed. How do we hear God in a world full of noise? In what ways does God speak to us? In this workshop, we will explore the importance of developing our spiritual sense of hearing.
Grief Through the Eyes of a Child
Dr. Shelly Melia, Jonshon Spring 1 C/G
Children experience grief differently than adults. This session will explore grief through the eyes of a child and provide practical ministry application for those who minister to children and their families experiencing loss and grief.
Rock-Solid Kids
Gladys Hawkins, Johnson Spring 1 D/H
This is based on the book by Larry Fowler. He covers 8 Foundation Rocks:
1-Ministering to children is a high priority
2-The responsibility for children’s ministry first belongs to parents|
3-Scripture is the foundation of our content; relevance follows
4-Spiritual training of children is the core lifestyle of the home
5-Every child is safe and loved at all times
6-Children serve God as soon as they are ready
7-Children’s workers communicate the gospel with clarity and urgency
8-Children have regular opportunities to trust in Christ
The Power of Elective in Christian Camping
John Crosby, Johnson Spring 3
Christian camps are not just places for fun and fellowship; they are fertile ground for developing the next generation of pastors and leaders. This lesson challenges camp leaders to see electives as more than optional activities; they are powerful tools for discipleship, leadership training, and spiritual gift discovery.
By intentionally crafting electives that give campers hands-on leadership opportunities, exposing them to various ministry roles, and fostering meaningful mentorship relationships, camps can create an environment where young people begin to sense God’s calling on their lives. Electives serve as leadership laboratories where campers can explore their gifts, develop a servant leadership mindset, and connect their passions to Kingdom purpose.
Leaders are encouraged to view every elective as a platform for spiritual growth and leadership formation, turning casual activities into intentional moments that shape future pastors, missionaries, worship leaders, and faithful servants.
Heart for Staff: Stewarding God’s Instruments Well
Omar Gonzalez, Johnson Spring 4
They’re just not pawns to manage; they’re God’s instruments to steward. Let’s care for their spiritual walk and their personal life as much as we care for their role being filled when the event is around the corner. Let’s be intentional with their gifting, their time given to every event, the financial sacrifice they do – let’s honor them and set them up to spiritually flourish in their gifting. In the end we want them to return to serve next year but we also want them to grow as servants. There’s nothing wrong with the church being a stepping stone for their growth.
Let’s learn how the house of God can bless their servants.
Supporting Families with Special Needs
Denise Junkin, Dogwood 2 C/D
Disability affects the whole family for a lifetime. Families of those with disabilities need hope and help to build a foundation of faith as they navigate through their unique family needs. How can you journey alongside families impacted by disability? Learn how the church can support families in all phases of life with practical ways to disciple and support the caregivers and those with disabilities.
Family Discipleship Breakout Session
Emmy Acevedo, Dogwood A/B
This session will equip parents, grandparents, and caregivers with practical tools to nurture children holistically, spiritually, emotionally, and physically. Participants will explore how faith formation begins in the home, how emotional health shapes spiritual growth, and how daily habits contribute to a thriving family environment.
Liderazgo cristiano
Obispo Gabriel Vidal, Johnson Spring 5 A/C
Esta sinopsis esboza un marco para el liderazgo cristiano que es fundamentalmente distinto de los modelos seculares. Postula que el verdadero liderazgo cristiano no tiene que ver con la posición, el poder o la ambición personal, sino que está totalmente arraigado en una vocación divina.
Compatre tu fe ahora
Abigahil Abila, Johnson Spring 5 B/D
Te invitamos a este taller que transformará tu perspectiva sobre como compartir Las Buenas Noticias del Evangelio con los niños. La voluntad de Dios que ninguno de “estos pequeños” se pierda y que Jesús mismo los invitó a venir a Él.
Aprenderás estrategias prácticas para compartir el evangelio con los niños e invitándolos a recibir el regalo de la vida eterna y darle la bienvenida a la familia de Dios.
La iglesia tiene los recursos para cambiar sus destinos, ofreciéndoles una vida plena y abundante. No te pierdas esta oportunidad de reflexionar sobre tu compromiso con el plan de Dios y aprender a mirar y amar a los niños como Él lo hace.
Gender Identity Issues
Dr. Shelly Melia, Johnson Spring 2 A/C
This session will offer a big-picture overview of the mindset of Generation Alpha regarding their sexuality and gender and provide practical information for teaching Gen Alpha about God’s design for their lives.
Confessions of a Workaholic: How I Reluctantly Learned to Sabbath – and the Practical Lessons That Helped Me Stay in Ministry
Valerie Moreno Batista, Johnson Spring 1 B/F
Are you running on empty, constantly pouring out for your ministry while neglecting your own soul? In a culture-and often a church-that rewards overwork, rest can feel like a luxury instead of a command. But what if Sabbath isn’t just a good idea, but God’s way of sustaining those He calls?
In this honest and hope-filled workshop, we’ll explore how neglecting rest can quietly erode our effectiveness and joy in ministry-especially in the unique demands of children’s ministry.
Through personal confession, biblical insights, and practical tools, you’ll gain a fresh vision for Sabbath as both a spiritual discipline and a survival strategy for long-lasting ministry.
Walk away with:
Real Talk KidMin: What We’re Learning, Loving, and Figuring Out
Anna Bowser and Alyssa Byrd, Johnson Spring 1 C/G
Children’s ministry can be one of the most rewarding and overwhelming callings—and we’re all still learning as we go. Join Anna and Alyssa— both educators, KidMin leaders, and real people still learning— for a candid conversation about what it really looks like to serve in this space today.
This honest session covers everything from navigating working with limited resources, ministering to kids with special needs, and building deep relationships with kids and volunteers. We’ll talk theology, real struggles, surprising wins, and how to minister to ALL ages in your ministry—even when you feel like you’re making it up as you go.
We’ll share what’s worked, what we’re still figuring out, and how to keep going when things feel uphill. You’ll hear our personal stories, swap some of your own, and maybe even leave with a fresh sense of calling and community. Whether you’re new to children’s ministry or decades in, come ready to laugh, reflect, and be reminded why this work matters!”
Turing Chaos into Control
Deborah Addington, Johnson Spring 1 D/H
This classroom management breakout emphasizes practical strategies for minimizing disorder and ensuring orderliness. Every Teacher or Director, regardless of experience level, encounters situations where having a repertoire of techniques proves invaluable. In all aspects of teaching, the objective is not only to enforce discipline but also to guide and disciple. You’ll acquire expertise in effective disciplinary methods tailored to maintain control, whether you’re teaching 5 or 50 children!
Christian Leadership
Bishop Gabriel Vidal, Johnson Spring 3
This synopsis outlines a framework for Christian leadership that is fundamentally distinct from secular models. It posits that true Christian leadership is not about position, power, or personal ambition, but is entirely rooted in a divine calling.
The core tenets are:
A Response to a Call: Leadership is initiated by answering the “call of the King” (God), not by seeking a title or appointment. The motivation is devotion to this call, not personal achievement.
Service and Love: The leader’s primary role is to be a servant-first to God and then to others. This service is an expression of love, making the role fundamentally selfless.
Influence, Not Authority: Leadership is defined as influence over people, not the exercise of control or dominion over them. It is earned, not demanded.
Faithful Stewardship: Leaders are accountable stewards of the responsibilities and people God has entrusted to them. They will ultimately be judged by God on their faithfulness, not their success.
Selflessness: Leadership is “never about you.” It requires sacrificing personal desires, pride, and identity for the sake of the higher purpose and office one represents (symbolized by “the Crown”).
Right Motivation: Leaders must serve willingly and eagerly, not under compulsion. Their drive should be a desire to serve God, not to gain money or power.
Exemplary Conduct: Leaders must lead by Christ-like example, not by acting as authoritarian “lords” over those they lead.
Multiplication and Obscurity: The ultimate goal is to pour oneself into others, equipping them and making oneself obsolete. This requires a lack of personal agenda, working solely for the Lord as a servant of the “King of Kings.”
In essence, Christian leadership is a paradox: it gains influence through service, finds significance through self-denial, and achieves success by empowering others to the point of one’s own obscurity.
Crafting Your Camp Schedule
Regina Italiano, Johnson Spring 4
Planning your camp’s daily schedule doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Join us for a hands-on discussion about building a program that excites campers and supports your staff. You’ll walk away with tools and ideas to make scheduling smoother and more effective.
Hungry for More: The Heart of Worship Discipleship
Yancy, Dogwood 2 A/B
Kids are facing hard stuff and experiencing life every day. How do we help them find their identity and purpose within the struggles? Yancy will share about creating spaces for kids to experience God. Worship is a pathway to encountering the presence of God. Our mission: How do we help them experience His presence and hunger for more? Worship discipleship. We’ll dive into why this is a crucial area of ministry for every generation.
Takeaway: Helping leaders grasp that making space for kids to encounter Jesus through times of worship is a discipleship necessity.
How Not to Lead a Family Ministry: Practical Truths and Tips to Avoid Family Ministry Fails
Amber Pike, Dogwood 2 C/D
Is your church truly ministering to families well? In this breakout, you’ll be challenged to look at how you do family ministry. You’ll gain practical truths and tips to help you learn what to do and what not to do so you can see mom and dad leading in homes where faith transformation is taking place.
Ministrando a familias bilingües
Omar Gonzalez, Johnson Spring 5 A/C
Los niños a quienes sirvo hablan inglés. Sus padres solo hablan otro idioma (por ejemplo, español). El discipulado en la iglesia solo llega tan profundo como el discipulado en el hogar. ¿Cómo podemos ayudar? ¿Debemos ayudar? ¿Podemos ayudar? ¿Cómo pueden nuestros ministerios caminar y conectarse con estas familias? No existe una barrera de idioma para el evangelio. Esto no es un obstáculo ni una molestia. Es una oportunidad.
Influir en los niños de la Iglesia
Noemi Olavarria, Johnson Spring 5 B/D
Gran parte del ministerio que una iglesia le ofrece a las familias incluye programas separados para cada miembro cuando llegan al templo. Aunque esta es una excelente forma de proporcionar un ministerio apropiado para todos los grupos de edad, también tiene la desventaja de mantener a los padres e hijos desconectados durante la adoración congregacional. Este taller presentará formas para ayudar a las iglesias a satisfacer las necesidades individuales de los miembros de la familia y, al mismo tiempo, poder compartir tiempos de adoración en un enfoque equilibrado del ministerio familiar.
Preparing the Next Generation for Ministry: The Next Gen Challenge
Bishop Brian Sutton, Johnson Spring 2 A-C
This breakout is designed to equip young leaders (and those who mentor young leaders) to minister effectively in the power of the Holy Spirit. We will explore the unique opportunities and challenges facing this generation, addressing potential pitfalls while embracing the strengths that young ministers bring.
Through biblical insights, practical strategies, and Spirit-led wisdom, we will empower the next generation to lead with confidence, integrity, and anointing in a rapidly changing world.
From Lesson to Life: Designing Engaging Services That Bring Scripture to Life
John Hailes, Johnson Spring 1 A/E
Every moment in a kid’s service is an opportunity to move beyond information and into transformation. In this session, you’ll discover how intentional planning can turn ordinary lessons into life-shaping encounters with God’s Word. Learn practical strategies to design services that engage kids and bring Scripture to life in meaningful, memorable ways.
Sustaining Ministry
Kim Batson, Johnson Spring 1 B/F
Children and Youth Ministries play a vital role in helping young people realize their Divine Purpose. This workshop will offer practical strategies for sustaining these ministries, including leader preparation, self-care, clear vision, and collaboration. Together, let’s aim for a great harvest.
C0mmerical Break
Brian Vaughn, Johnson Spring 1 C/G
Children and Youth Ministries play a vital role in helping young people realize their Divine Purpose. This workshop will offer practical strategies for sustaining these ministries, including leader preparation, self-care, clear vision, and collaboration. Together, let’s aim for a great harvest.
Go Ye Into All the World
Amy Morgan, Johnson Spring 1 D/H
In Matthew 28:19, Jesus commands us to “Go and make disciples of all nations.” In 2025, fulfilling this mandate requires innovative approaches that resonate with today’s diverse communities. This workshop invites participants to explore contemporary outreach strategies, equipping them with practical tools to effectively share God’s love and message in schools and their communities.
Marketing on a Ministry Budget: Getting the Word Out Without Burning Out
Dr. Shaun McKinley, Johnson Spring 3
Learn low-cost, high-impact tools and tips for promoting your kids’ ministry or camp. This breakout is perfect for teams with small budgets and big vision.
ALTAR-EGO: Laying Down Yourself During Altar Ministry
Scott Bohanon, Johnson Spring 4
Altar moments can be some of the most meaningful times in a camper’s spiritual journey-and as leaders, we have the privilege of helping guide them through those encounters with care, love, and sensitivity. ALTAR-EGO is a practical and heart-centered workshop designed to help you grow in spiritual readiness and confidence when praying with kids.
Using the A.L.T.A.R. model-Available, Loving, Tactful, Aligned, Respectful-we’ll explore how to be fully present, listen to the Holy Spirit, and create a safe, supportive space for kids to respond to what God is doing. This training also emphasizes the importance of setting aside personal assumptions and expectations, allowing us to better support each camper’s unique experience with God.
Whether you’re new to altar ministry or looking to go deeper, this session will equip you with the tools, scriptures, and mindset to lead with boldness, compassion, and reverence during powerful moments at the altar.
Taking Your Family Discipleship Approach Past Just Resourcing Parents
Amber Pike, Dogwood 2 C/D
When you think of family discipleship, is your plan just to resource parents? Resourcing parents is part of a family discipleship approach (family ministry), but that’s not all the church should be doing to equip mom and dad to lead. Take your ministry beyond just resourcing parents. This breakout will help you build a doable and practical approach to family discipleship so that faith transformation thrives in the home.
Creating Milestones that Matter
Jonathan Olavarria, Dogwood 2 A/B
Milestone moments can serve as a reminder to parents of God’s faithfulness. God’s provision and their role as the primary disciplers. It is more than a child dedication or a 5th-grade graduation. It is an opportunity to teach, equip, and bless.
Criando niños saludables emocional, social ye espiritualmente
Emmy Acevedo, Johnson Spring 5 A/C
Esta sesión ofrece a padres, abuelos y tutores herramientas prácticas para nutrir a sus hijos de forma integral, espiritual, emocional y física. Los participantes explorarán cómo la formación de la fe comienza en el hogar, cómo la salud emocional influye en el crecimiento espiritual y cómo los hábitos diarios contribuyen a un entorno familiar próspero.
Los desafíos de la niñez Latina en el siglo 21
Theri Santos, Johnson Spring 5 B/D
Este taller está diseñado para dotar a los maestros cristianos de perspectiva y compasión mientras atienden y educan a niños inmigrantes latinoamericanos que residen actualmente en Estados Unidos. Estos niños enfrentan desafíos únicos que impactan su vida diaria y su camino de fe. En el ámbito social, a menudo luchan con las barreras del idioma, la adaptación cultural, la discriminación y una sensación de aislamiento al navegar entre dos mundos. En el ámbito económico, muchas familias experimentan dificultades financieras, oportunidades laborales limitadas e inestabilidad habitacional, lo que puede aumentar el estrés y la inseguridad de los niños. En el ámbito educativo, los estudiantes inmigrantes pueden encontrar brechas en el aprendizaje, dificultades para adaptarse a las nuevas expectativas académicas y acceso limitado a recursos o sistemas de apoyo. Dentro de sus estructuras familiares, los niños a veces enfrentan cambios de roles —actuando como intérpretes o mediadores culturales de sus padres— a la vez que soportan el peso de la separación familiar o la alteración de las dinámicas.
Al explorar estas realidades desde una perspectiva bíblica, este taller ayudará a los maestros a comprender mejor los antecedentes de sus estudiantes, construir puentes de empatía y brindar un apoyo centrado en Cristo que fomente tanto el crecimiento académico como el estímulo espiritual.
Leading with Influence When You’re Not in Charge
Dr. Shaun McKinley, Johnson Spring 2 A–C
Leadership doesn’t always come with the top title, and some of the most effective leaders serve faithfully from the second chair. This session will explore what it means to lead with excellence, vision, and spiritual authority while supporting someone else’s leadership. It will provide biblical insights,
The Art of Collaboration in Ministry
Kim Batson, Johnson Spring 1 A/E
Collaboration is a vital competency that organizations invest considerable resources to develop among their employees. In ministry, however, there is often a tendency to prioritise action over intentional preparation. This workshop will examine the significance of building collaborative partnerships across ministries within the local church. The session aims to transition participants from isolated ministry practices—which can lead to burnout and frustration—to a model of collaborative ministry that leverages individual strengths for the achievement of shared objectives.
When the Fire Fizzles
Bishop Duke Stone, Johnson Spring 1 B/F
The breakout dives into the book of Habakkuk to help leaders navigate seasons of struggle and discouragement in ministry. Discover how to persevere when passion fades, how faith can flourish in frustration, and how to keep trusting God when you feel like quitting.
Gifts in Action – Creative Arts Ministry
Amy Morgan, Johnson Spring 1 C/G
Establishing a creative arts ministry provides children with the opportunity to use their natural abilities while engaging in
ministry and sharing the gospel through various forms of expression. Creative Arts, by definition, involves using one’s gifts and talents to honor God, the Creator of all. This workshop allows us to explore different gifts and how they can be used in Children’s ministry.
Introducing Jesus to Babies and Toddlers
Valerie Moreno, Johnson Spring 1 D/H
What if nursery ministry wasn’t just childcare, but the beginning of lifelong discipleship? What if we could combine cutting-edge brain development research with biblical principles to introduce even the youngest hearts and minds to Jesus?
In this workshop, we’ll explore how infants and toddlers learn, grow, and form connections-both neurologically and spiritually. You’ll learn how to use research-backed strategies to nurture faith in ways that are age-appropriate, deeply impactful, and rooted in God’s design for early development.
Meeting Kids Where They Are: Getting Back to the Basics
John Crosby, Johnson Spring 3
This session, Meeting Kids Where They Are, encourages leaders and volunteers to return to the heart of ministry—presence, simplicity, and genuine relationship. Based on Mark 10:13-16, it reminds us that Jesus welcomed children and valued their childlike faith. Ministry isn’t about impressive programs but about making God’s love, forgiveness, and friendship clear in everyday life. Drawing from passages like Deuteronomy 6:6-7 and James 1:22, it highlights living out faith through daily actions and authentic connection. Ultimately, effective ministry begins by slowing down, meeting kids on their level, and walking with them toward Christ.
Creative Games for Non-Athletes
Regina Italiano, Johnson Spring 4
Whether you’re a top athlete or a self-proclaimed couch potato, everyone deserves to join the fun! In this updated session from ICM 2023, we’ll share tried-and-true games that include every camper and keep the excitement high.
Ministry Pathway: Designing a Discipleship Strategy for All Ages
Hunter Williams, Dogwood 2 A/B
We all know discipleship matters-but how do we actually make it happen? In this breakout, you’ll gain practical tools to move beyond theory and build a comprehensive discipleship strategy that engages every age and stage of your ministry.
Ministering to Bilingual Families
Omar Gonzalez, Dogwood C/D
The children I minister to speak English. Their parents only speak another language (i.e Spanish). Discipleship from the church is only as deep as the discipleship from home. How do we assist? Should we assist? Can we assist?
How can our ministries walk and connect with these families? There’s no language barrier for the gospel. This isn’t an obstacle or an inconvenience. It’s an opportunity.
De la lección a la vida: Diseño de servicios atractivos que dan vida a las escrituras
Dr. John Hailes, Johnson Spring 5 A/C
Cada momento en un servicio para niños es una oportunidad para ir más allá de la información y entrar en la transformación. En esta sesión, descubrirás cómo una planificación intencional puede convertir lecciones ordinarias en encuentros que transforman vidas con la Palabra de Dios. Aprende estrategias prácticas para diseñar servicios que involucren a los niños y hagan que las Escrituras cobren vida de manera significativa y memorable.
De “guardería” a núcleo de equipamiento para el crecimiento
David Garcia, Johnson Spring 5 B/D
¿Haz sentido que tu ministerio de niños parece una “guardería santa”, donde los padres delegan la formación espiritual de sus hijos? Es tiempo de movernos a un modelo ministerial más bíblico, para movernos de “guardería” hacia un núcleo de equipamiento para el crecimiento.
Este taller te equipará para liderar el cambio, basándote en el mandato bíblico de Deuteronomio 6. Aprenderás estrategias prácticas para:
Únete a nosotros para construir una fe que trasciende las paredes de la iglesia y se arraigue en el corazón del hogar. ¡Transforma tu ministerio y forja campeones espirituales para las próximas generaciones!
Stained Glass Kids: Loving PKs and Raising Ministry Kids Well
Yancy, Johnson Spring 2 A–C
For too long, PKs have gotten a bad rap and been left on the sidelines as casualties of the ministry. Yancy will share the lessons she has learned from interviewing PKs and ministry kids on her podcast “Stained Glass Kids”. These are shifts we can make, conversations we can start, and intentional discipleship actions for your co-worker’s children and the ones that live at your house, too.
The Path Forward: Leading Kids into the Next Stage of Discipleship
Bishop Kirk Rising & Joy Rivas, Johnson Spring 1 A/E
Every child’s journey with Jesus is meant to keep moving forward—but the transition from children’s ministry to youth ministry can be one of the most critical (and challenging) steps. In this session, we’ll explore how to guide preteens as they step into a new stage of spiritual growth and community. Learn practical ways to prepare kids—and their parents—for what’s ahead, foster healthy connections between children’s and youth leaders, and help students continue following Jesus with confidence as they grow.
Building Resilience Through Experiencing God’s Presence
Deborah Addington, Johnson Spring 1 B/F
In children’s ministry, nurturing both resilience and a deep understanding of worship is essential-but what if these two are more connected than we realize? This session explores how authentic worship can play a powerful role in strengthening children’s faith and spiritual resilience. Gain fresh insights into guiding kids into God’s presence and discover practical, proven strategies you can apply in your ministry right away.
It’s Alive: Making the Bible Visual
Dan Nixon, Johnson Spring 1 C/G
In this workshop, you will learn creative ideas for bringing scripture alive in a visual way. Everything from storytelling, object lessons, gospel magic and creative illustrations are presented. You will leave with many ideas that you can instantly begin using.
Cultivation Strong Leadership Teams: Through Intentional Discipleship
Bishop Jeff Davis, Alejandra Hodge, Dr. Elias Rodriguez, Tony Orona, Johnson Spring 1 D/H
This workshop equips ministry leaders to embrace their calling as disciple-makers. It emphasizes how intentional relationships and everyday ministry contexts—whether in camps, children’s ministry, or beyond—can be powerful avenues for spiritual formation and leadership development.
Beyond your job description and role is the calling of Jesus, GO MAKE DISCIPLES!
Remember that before Jesus chose leaders, he called disciples. The leadership gifts, such as Pastor, evangelist, deacon, and elder, were established solely to go and make disciples. To miss this point is to miss it all.
Equipping Hearts to Serve Special Needs Families in Camp
Keith and Ingrid White, Johnson Spring 3
“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” — Matthew 25:40
Join us for a transformative workshop designed to equip ministry leaders, volunteers, and camp staff with the tools and heart to serve children with special needs and their families through camping ministry. Rooted in Christ’s call to love and include, this experience will inspire you to:
Equipping Hearts to Serve Special Needs Families in Camp
Keith and Ingrid White, Johnson Spring 3
“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” — Matthew 25:40
Join us for a transformative workshop designed to equip ministry leaders, volunteers, and camp staff with the tools and heart to serve children with special needs and their families through camping ministry. Rooted in Christ’s call to love and include, this experience will inspire you to:
Team Competition
Denise Junkin, Johnson Spring 4
Team competition is a big part of what makes camping ministry so special. The main goal behind games and group activities is to help campers build strong friendships by connecting with each other in a fun, relaxed way. These kinds of bonds can make a real difference, both during camp and long after. Team competitions help campers make lasting friendships, discover their leadership skills, and get excited about being part of the group. In this session, we’ll talk about why recreation matters and the important parts of developing a strong team competition/recreation activities.
Breaking the 1% Barrier: How Family Ministry Changes Everything
Hunter Williams, Dogwood 1 A/B
You can run a phenomenal weekend experience for kids with in-depth Bible teaching, incredible volunteers, and engaging environments, yet still be operating at 1% effectiveness. In this session, learn what the 1% barrier is and how you can break it to create faithful disciples for a lifetime.
Ministering to Girls
Melissa Minter, Dogwood 2 C/D
Our girls are growing up in a world that tells them that their gender doesn’t matter. Yet, God created each girl with a special set of skills, emotions, and needs. As children’s ministers, we want to help our girls become the women that God created them to be. In this breakout session, we’ll dive into what it means to be a girl created in God’s image, and discuss practical ways we can minister to their unique needs.
Movilizando a los hombes: equipando a los padres para liderar en el hogar
Jonathan Olavarria, Johnson Spring 5 A/C
Los hombres no son solo proveedores o protectores; son líderes espirituales llamados a modelar la fe en el hogar y en la iglesia. Sin embargo, en muchas iglesias, el discipulado suele percibirse como “una tarea de mujeres”, y pocos padres se sienten capacitados o empoderados para liderar. Esta sesión confrontará esa narrativa al llamar a los hombres a asumir su rol dado por Dios como hacedores de discípulos en sus hogares y a levantarse como siervos líderes en la formación de la próxima generación. Escucharás testimonios de transformación, recibirás herramientas prácticas para el discipulado familiar y explorarás por qué los hombres son vitales para un ministerio infantil sólido y fructífero.
Hogates que dejan huella
Pablo del Santo, Johnson Spring 5 B/D
El llamado de los padres a guiar a sus hijos en el camino del Señor. La fe empieza en casa. La Biblia no delega la instrucción espiritual en la iglesia, sino en los padres. El hogar es el primer terreno de discipulado, donde cada conversación, reacción y muestra de amor enseña. Los hijos aprenden más de lo que ven que de lo que escuchan; por eso, los padres son los principales formadores de una fe viva y duradera.
Helping Kids Exchange Anxiety for a Garment of Praise
Yancy, Johnson Spring 1 A/E
The heartache of life has no age restriction. What if we taught children from an early age how to go to God with their pain? What would it take to teach them about worship so their hiding place becomes God’s presence? Yancy will share her practical wisdom and experience about becoming intentional at worship discipleship. Let’s start now and raise this generation to be the worshipers God created them to be.
Takeaway: Will share practical examples and testimonies to inspire leaders to take this area seriously. This would be my more theological slant to the leading worship conversation.
The Discipline of Accountability
Bishop Paul Holt, Johnson Spring 1 B/F
Accountability is not a cloak that we put on and take off. It is a discipline practiced by leaders with integrity who understand that we are called to be accountable to both God and others. “For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man.” 2 Corinthians 8:21 NIV
This workshop will explore the benefits of Biblical accountability and the ministry and relational roadblocks created when leaders fail to prioritize this important discipline.
Puppet Stuff: A Multitude of Ideas
Dan Nixon, Johnson Spring 1 C/G
Puppets are incredible tools for teaching. But where do I begin, and how do I use them effectively? In this workshop, you will gain many practical ideas of how you can use puppets effectively in teaching Biblical principles.
Beyond Flannelgraph: Maximizing Lesson Engagement with Interactive and Multi-sensory Teaching
Amber Pike, Johnson Spring 1 D/H
Leaders must become intentional about teaching so that more children can engage with and retain God’s truths. This breakout will help you learn how to use learning styles and teaching aids, regardless of the curriculum you use, to maximize lesson engagement in your ministry.
Laying Foundations – Preschool Style
Cheryl Hughes, Johnson Spring 3
Children learn what is poured into them from the time they are born. Prayers, songs, and stories galore. This class will focus on ways to reach the children in the Preschool/pre-K age group. This age group has busy hands and wiggles and giggles. This class will help you to teach using their wiggles, giggles, and hands-on (or in!) approach.
Holding children’s attention for this age group can be challenging. But it can be done. Children love to move, use their imagination, role-play, and be helpers. I will share with you age-appropriate activities to share the gospel with this precious and so important age group.
P.U.S.H. – Pray Until Something Happens, Camping Ministry Goes Wild
Rebecca Leuschner, Johnson Spring 4
Pray Until Something Happens!
There are many ways to pray and many creative ideas to bring children into God’s presence through prayer. This workshop aims to show how prayer stations can help us in our camping work to focus children’s attention on God and equip them for everyday life.
Releasing Kids into Ministry
Melissa Minter, Dogwood 2 A/B
There is a place for everyone to serve in our churches. We want the children who grow up in our ministries to find and use their God-given talents. In this breakout session, we’ll discuss ways to help kids discover those talents and offer practical suggestions about releasing them into ministry.
Mobilizing Men: Equipping Fathers to Lead at Home
Jonathan Olavarria, Dogwood 2 C/D
Men are not just providers or protectors; they are spiritual leaders called to model faith in the home and the church. Yet in many churches, discipleship is often seen as “women’s work,” and few fathers feel equipped or empowered to lead. This session will challenge that narrative by calling men to step into their God-given role as disciple-makers in their homes and to rise as servant leaders in the formation of the next generation. You’ll hear stories of transformation, receive practical tools for family discipleship, and explore why men are vital to a thriving children’s ministry team.
Campamento con compassion y propósito
Ingrid White, Johnson Spring 5 A/C
Un Taller para Capacitar Corazones en el Ministerio a Familias con Necesidades Especiales. “Les aseguro que todo lo que hicieron por uno de mis hermanos, aun por el más pequeño, lo hicieron por mí.” — Mateo 25:40
Únete a este taller transformador diseñado para capacitar a líderes ministeriales, voluntarios y personal de campamento con las herramientas y el corazón para servir a niños con necesidades especiales y a sus familias a través del ministerio en la naturaleza. Basado en el llamado de Cristo a amar e incluir, este taller te inspirará a:
Fomentar una cultura de empatía, gozo y conexión espirituales.
Sembrando la palabra
Pablo del Salto, Johnson Spring 5 B/D
¿Por qué es tan importante compartir la Palabra con los niños?
El corazón del niño es terreno fértil: curioso, confiado y abierto a creer. Lo que aprende en esta etapa formará su visión del mundo y de Dios. En medio de una cultura que intenta moldear sus valores, la Palabra de Dios les da dirección, identidad y propósito. Cuando la Palabra se siembra en sus corazones, se convierte en una semilla de fe que crece y los sostiene incluso en los momentos más difíciles.