Lunch & Learn Opportunities
Annual Conference 2026
Sacred Story Studio: Rekindling Call Through Creative Practice
Every story is sacred. Join us as we engage with 2 Timothy 1:6-7 and artistic expression as spiritual practice. As we listen and share, we are formed, rekindled in call, and reconnected to one another. You will also learn about the Committee on LGBTQ+ Inclusion's work and upcoming opportunities. Led by Izzie Zimmerman and Rev. Lindsey Jeter.
Expanding Revenue for Ministry
There are many ways a congregation can expand its revenue beyond what is received in a church offering plate. Join members of Faith and Innovation to explore both cost-saving and investment strategies that local churches might consider so that together we can sustain our United Methodist witness in the Tennessee-Western Kentucky area for years to come. Led by Rev. Brian Marcoulier.
Cultivating Healing, Transformation, and Deep relationship with Journey to Freedom Groups
In the Beatitudes, we see God is revealed through the human condition; our Wesleyan roots teach us that accountability infused with grace guides us to encounter the living God in our midst. Come and see the power of bearing witness to one another's humanity as we discuss the basic frameworks of quality, transformative small groups. led by Steven Lefebvre.
Small but Mighty: Faithful Ministry in Small Churches
A panel discussion hosted by the TWK Thriving Congregations team with Rev. Allen Stanton, author of the Gift of Small, alongside TWK pastors and leaders of small churches, highlighting the faithful ministry, present realities, and possibilities emerging in this season.
Cultivating Call Imagination & Transformation (CIT) - Discernment for Grounding Ourselves in Christ's Call in the Shifting Spiritual Landscape
God is doing a New Thing! How do we know how to perceive it? Together, we will share practices of discernment for grounding ourselves in Christ's Call in the Shifting Spiritual Landscape. Led by Cultivating CIT Resource Team of Faith & Innovation.
Living Out the Priesthood of All Believers - Deepening the Partnership Between Clergy and Laity
We are ALL called. Ministry is a collaborative effort between laity and clergy. Join us for a time of learning and conversation that will help us deepen the partnership between clergy and laity in our church. We hope lay members and pastors will participate in this time together! Led by Rev. April Arnold and lay leaders.
Peace with Justice: Called to Act, Equipped to Lead
Discover how "Peace with Justice" is more than a slogan. It's a way of life rooted in the Gospel. Through discussion, real-world examples, and practical tools, participants will be equipped and inspired to answer God's call for justice in their congregations and communications. Led by Rev. Monica Mowdy and REv. Don Terry.
Building Affordable Housing on Church Property
Explore how churches can address our housing and homelessness crises and embody the Beloved Community by building affordable housing. Discover the church's rich history in building housing, successful examples, and practical steps to transform your church property into a welcoming community space that embodies Christ's love. Led by Zach Lykins, Executive Director, Trinity Community Commons, and Rev. Brian Marcoulier, Senior Minister, Calvary UMC
Disaster Basic Knowledge, Available Trainings, and Ministry Outcomes
Those attending this presentation will learn a brief overview of disaster basics, available trainings, ways to engage, and recovery ministry accomplishments. led by Members of the Disaster Response Team.
ENCORE Ministry Foundation and the New Age-Friendly Congregation Certificate Program
The ENCORE Ministry Foundation staff will share ideas and resources for ministry by, with, and for older adults, including the new Age-Friendly Congregation Certificate program. Led by Dr. Richard H. Gentler, Jr. and John Rivas.
Disrupting and Dismantling Racism: Awareness, Relationship, Commitment
Awareness, Relationship, and Commitment from the ARC of racial healing and racial justice. Explore what this means for our individual journeys as disciples and what this means for our shared journey towards Beloved Community. Led by Rev. Aaron Dennis and Rev. Larry Chitwood.
Sacred Story Studio: Rekindling Call Through Creative Practice
Every story is sacred. Join us as we engage with 2 Timothy 1:6-7 and artistic expression as spiritual practice. As we listen and share, we are formed, rekindled in call, and reconnected to one another. You will also learn about the Committee on LGBTQ+ Inclusion's work and upcoming opportunities. Led by Izzie Zimmerman and Rev. Lindsey Jeter.