BREAKOUT SESSION TOPICS

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Church Planting

Sending 101: Your Church's Path Towards Multiplication led by Ryan McCammack, Brandon Henson, Jim Perdue, Steve Browning
We believe every church can be moving towards multiplication. In this session we will provide church leaders with clear next steps to help your church increase your engagement in church planting.
The Profile of a Planter led by Ryan McCammack, Brandon Henson, David Rogers, Christian White
Are you a future church planter or church planting team member? How do churches discover and deploy those who are called? In this session, we’ll help you identify key characteristics of potential planters.

Collegiate

Reach College Age Adults for Maximum Kingdom Impact led by Chris Bryan, Drew Felts, David Williams, Will McKee, Tommy Fountain, Jr., Michael Frye, Keith Wade, Eric Austin, Swenson Reaves
Young Adults age 18-25 are the most reachable, trainable, and sendable generation alive! Led by a BCM campus minister and a church college minister, this session will give you practical insights and ideas your church can implement this week to effectively reach, disciple and mobilize college age adults.

Counseling Ministry

Coping: Crisis are a part of life led by Ricky Thrasher
This training will focus on practical ways to assess and ministry to those in crisis. Participants will learn strategies for assisting those in crisis with copying skills.
It Is Well: A Journey Through Mental Health and Addiction led by Tonya Ledford
It is Well seminar focuses on mental wellness and how to minister to those that may be hurting due to friends or family afflicted with mental health symptoms and/or addiction. It is Well helps participants learn strategies to open conversations with others that may be struggling with shame related to symptoms and behaviors (I.E. pornography, substance use (prescribed and illicit), gambling, & food).

Deaf (Atlanta Location Only)

How to Start a Deaf Ministry in Your Church led by Laramie Burris
Deaf people are one of the largest unreached people groups in the world, and they face many challenges to accessing the gospel. You will learn basic Deaf culture such as understanding why they are the most challenging to reach out for Christ. Also, I will give a few different methods to consider how to start and provide support to start Deaf ministry in your church. Let us work together and make an impact to Deaf for God's kingdom.

Disaster Relief

Loving Communities That Have Been Affected By a Crisis Event led by Dwain Carter, Quillian Mercer
How Disaster Relief works within a community to bring Help, Hope and Healing. Working with the local churches, Associations and community leaders as we Advance the Gospel.

Discipleship

Forging Men of Faith: Building a Discipleship Culture That Lasts led by Ray Sullivan
This breakout session will equip men’s ministry leaders with a biblical framework and practical strategies to build a thriving discipleship culture among men. We will explore four key components including, real relationships, a clear discipleship pathway, transformational teaching, and intentional multiplication.
Making the Most of Church Facilities: Optimizing Space for Ministry led by Matthew Gibbs
Discover creative and efficient ways to utilize church facilities for ministry growth. This session will explore strategies for maximizing space, ensuring that your church's facilities support both the current needs and future growth of your congregation.
Transformational Teaching: Proven Practices of Highly Experienced Group Leaders led by Matthew Gibbs
Equip yourself with the tools and insights needed to be an effective Sunday School leader. This session will cover proven best practices for teaching, leading, and engaging learners while fostering an atmosphere of growth and spiritual formation.
Senior Adult Ministry in the 21st Century led by Andy Fowler
Join this session to gain practical and proven insights to build a senior adult ministry that impacts the world.
Grounded and Growing: Connecting New Believers into the Life of the Church led by Dallas White, Brian Parker
One of the greatest challenges of local church leadership is helping assimilate people into the life of the church...especially new believers. The goal of this session is to give you some practical handles on how you [and your church] can create a culture designed to help new believers move from being “potted” (isolated, loosely connected) to being “planted” (deeply rooted and thriving in the life of the church community).
Be Our Guest: Making a Lasting Impact on Your First-Time Guest led by Brady Fortenberry, John Spencer
This breakout is for all leaders who serve on your first impressions or guest services team. We will look at best practices to help make a memorable first impression, to serve guests well, and to give them a clear next step to grow and multiply as a disciple of Jesus.
New Member Connection and Assimilation led by Chris Blalock, Chris Pritchett, Denise Pritchett, Eric Eggers
This breakout is for all leaders who serve on your first impressions or guest services team. We will look at best practices to help make a memorable first impression, to serve guests well, and to give them a clear next step to grow and multiply as a disciple of Jesus.
How to Reach Young Adults led by PJ Dunn
1 in 3 young adults feel completely alone, even though they are the most connected generation ever. This session will equip your church with practical strategies to reach, engage, and disciple young adults by fostering authentic relationships and building a discipleship culture.
Gospel Integrated Thinking (Albany Location Only) led by John LaGrange
In this breakout you will learn to equip all believers how to think as ministers of reconciliation.
Gospel Integrated Living (Albany Location Only) led by Matt Casey, Patrick Sebesta
In this breakout you will learn how to equip others to live as ministers of reconciliation.

Evangelism

Go Fish!: Sharing the Gospel in Everyday Life led by Steve Foster, Brad Marchman
The Gospels clearly teach that disciples are followers of Jesus that become fishers of men. This Breakout will help equip the follower of Jesus to passionately embrace sharing the gospel in everyday life.
5 Star Evangelistic Groups: Empowering Your Group to Reach the Lost and Multiply Its Impact led by Steve Foster, Brad Marchman
Do you want to energize your groups for evangelism? No matter if you do Sunday School or some other form of small groups, this class will give you a focused, measurable plan to maximize your group's evangelistic impact.

Mission Georgia

Discipling When It's Difficult: Tips on Navigating Hard Relationships led by Paula Walker
Relationships inside the church aren't always easy! Everyone we serve is walking through or has walked through hard things that have shaped their attitudes and behaviors. Come understand the "why" behind those behaviors and learn strategies to reach others even when it's difficult!
Is Your Church S.A.F.E.? 3 Steps for Supporting Adoptive, Foster, and Extended Families (Brewton Parker, Dacula, Atlanta and Lakeside Locations Only) led by Jodie Marsh
The Mission Georgia S.A.F.E. Church Initiative equips churches to become safe, healing spaces for foster, adoptive, and kinship families. By completing three easy steps, your church can be equipped with the tools, training, and support needed to care well for vulnerable children and their caregivers. Join us in creating a culture of safety, trust, and gospel-centered discipleship in every ministry setting.
Helping People Learn to Read: Changing Lives Through Literacy and God's Love (Rock Spring, Albany, Dacula and Atlanta Locations Only) led by Belinda Harris
Only 38% of Georgia's third graders were reading proficiently on the Georgia Milestones ELA test in 2024. Approximately 16% of Georgia residents speak a language other than English at home. One in ten adults in the state are low literate and read at or below a fourth-grade level. Learn how your church can reach and love your neighbors through Literacy Missions.
World Cup 2026 Outreach: Serving Every City, Every Fan and Every Community (Atlanta and Dacula Locations Only) led by Keith Ivey, Dan Williams
3 Countries in North America. 16 cities. 48 teams. 104 matches. 1 champion. Excitement is building as Georgia prepares to host games for the 2026 World Cup of Soccer! Come and learn how your church can harness the energy and excitement of the World Cup for evangelism and discipleship in your own community.

Missions

God’s love led by Buck Burch
An overview of pathways, partnerships and pipelines established in churches working together.
Working in Collaboration with Other Churches to Increase Mission Effectiveness led by Keith Ivey, Samuel Ayala
An overview of the elements needed in your church to help new believers clarify their calling, train for the journey, and get connected to missions opportunities.

Ministry Administration

Artificial Intelligence: Using AI to Maximize Your Ministry Impact (Ethically) led by Scott Smith, Jimmy Long, Terry Ryan
In this hands-on session, you’ll learn how to leverage Artificial Intelligence to dive deeper into Scripture, draft ministry emails and content in minutes, as well as outline Bible studies and curriculum with clarity and speed. You’ll also see how AI can take "repurpose" your existing content—like sermon notes—and turn it into everything from small group questions to social posts. Discover how AI can help you break down complex problems and simplify decision-making in your ministry work—offering structured thinking, fresh ideas, and fast solutions when you feel stuck or overwhelmed. We’ll also discuss how to use AI responsibly, including how to detect and correct biased or inaccurate responses. You’ll leave this session with practical skills, a clear roadmap, and the confidence to begin using AI immediately in your daily ministry life.

Next Gen Students

Strengthening Your Church Through Effective Next Gen Ministry led by Cameron Wilkins,Tim Kilgore, Todd Jones
The next generation isn’t just the future of the Church—it’s the Church right now. How can we strengthen our churches to effectively engage, disciple, and equip young people for a lifelong faith in Christ? In this breakout session, we’ll explore practical, proven ministry strategies that can bridge generational gaps, create lasting impact, and fuel a thriving Next Gen ministry. Whether you’re a Next Gen leader, pastor, associate pastor, or ministry leader, this session will provide valuable insights to help you cultivate a church culture that reaches and empowers the next generation for Christ.
Addressing Anxiety in the Next Generation led by Chris Trent, Kyle Ruff
Join us as we explore the unique challenges faced by a generation raised amidst constant digital connectivity and unprecedented mental health struggles. In this session, ministry leaders will learn practical strategies to recognize anxiety and other mental health challenges, provide spiritual encouragement, and train volunteers working with children and students. We will also discuss when to seek professional counseling and highlight how to create environments that foster meaningful, face-to-face connections.

Next Gen Kids

Kids Ministry That Any Church Can Do led by Krista Staton, Jenni Carter, Diane Roberson, Catherine Reynolds, Caroline Dale, Peter Johnston
Come learn simple, yet impactful ideas that any church can do regardless of size or budget. This session will offer great takeaways for you and your church.
Teaching Kids in Today's World led by Krista Staton, Lisa Lovett, Cyd Pagliarullo, Marcia Staub, Jennifer Dooley
Teaching kids in today’s children’s ministry requires a fresh, engaging, and interactive approach to capture their attention and help them grow in their faith. This session will give you a clear understanding of the kids, the culture, and strategies to teach them.
Outreach Events for Special Needs Families led by Amy Burney, Carol Ann Guthrie, Mark Scardino, Lanette James
In this session, we will discuss outreach events that churches can do to reach and bless special needs families. We will also have a discussion time to give participants the opportunity to discuss needs that you have at your church, whether its beginning a special needs ministry, how to handle specific needs, or what to do next.

Pastor Wellness

Strengthening Your Leadership: Coaching for Pastors led by Chris Reynolds
Chris Reynolds In this breakout session, discover how coaching can provide the wisdom, encouragement, and practical strategies you need to thrive in your pastoral calling. Whether you're facing leadership challenges, seeking fresh vision, or simply looking for a trusted guide, our coaching opportunities are designed to equip and empower you for greater impact. Don't miss this chance to take your ministry to the next level!
From Surviving to Thriving: Coaching for Women in Ministry led by Joy Stevens
This breakout session will introduce coaching opportunities designed specifically for women who lead ministry areas. Whether you're directing a team, discipling others, or navigating the unique challenges of ministry, coaching can provide the insight, encouragement, and practical tools you need to flourish. Join us and discover a community that will support and equip you for the road ahead!
Reaching the Lost in a Small Town Setting led by Wade Lott, Craig Ward, Jeff Gongwer, Marty Youngblood, Jason Jones
Small towns have a unique character and sense of community. In this session, we will share ways that you can connect with your community, serve your community, and build relationships that will lead to Gospel Conversations in a small-town setting.
Deacons: Biblical and Church Alignment with Core Training Nuggets led by Art Fulks
Explore the basics of biblical qualifications and ministry calling for deacons, as well as the significance of being aligned with church polity, structure, and strategy. We will also provide help for leaders on core competency training ideas to include in your rhythm each year.
Deacons: Unique Relationships and Rapid Response Reconciliation led by Art Fulks
Examine the unique relationship dynamics of the deacon and the landmines that can often accompany this vital Gospel role. How can you avoid potential chaos and tension by pursuing clarity of communication and mission, while understanding commonly unmet expectations? And what is the appropriate rapid response when a landmine goes off so there can be rapid reconciliation?
Revitalizing Your Pulpit: Modern Preaching for a Modern World (Rock Spring Location Only) led by Joel Southerland and David Allen
Learn techniques that breathe new life into your sermons and captivate your listeners week after week.

Public Affairs

The Christian's Response to the Growing LGBT Culture led by Mike Griffin
This class is a comprehensive study on how the church can reach out to the gay community without compromising the Gospel and the integrity of church membership. It is important that churches respond lovingly, but firmly, on Biblical truth.
Reducing the Risk of Child Sexual Abuse in the Church led by Mike Griffin
This class is about what the church can do to protect our children against sexual abuse. It is important that every church understands the risk and have in place policies and procedures that create a safe environment for their children and those who serve them.

Women

Lavish Hospitality: Sharing God’s Gracious Love Through Women’s Ministry led by Kimberly Campbell
Hospitality is not just Southern Living and West Elm. You don’t have to have sweet tea and pimento cheese, though those are great! Lavish Hospitality is understanding God's gracious love and welcome toward us then living that out in our welcome of others. Come explore ways to walk in this truth in the women's ministry at your church.
Meant for Missions: 3 Ways to Involve Women led by Lauren Sullens, Leigh Hawkins, Pam Murphy, Cindy Schaeffner,, Beth Ann Williams
In the busyness of life getting involved in one more “project” just feels impossible! As Christ-following women how do we guide the women we lead to live out a missions lifestyle? How do we encourage them to connect their God-given gifts to serve and love others? We’ll dive deep into Relationships, Resources and Responses that will help women take another step toward the joy of missions.

Worship & Music

The Primal Question: Understanding Yourself to Lead Well led by Rhon Carter
Every leader brings more than just their skills to ministry—they bring their story, their emotions, and their deepest needs. In this breakout session, we’ll explore how your Primal Question—the core emotional need that drives your leadership—shapes the way you serve, lead, and interact with your team.
Harmony & Heart: Leading Worship with Excellence led by Jonathan & Aimee Hoylee, Rob Britton, Witney Blizzard, Tim & Lauren Stroud
Every leader brings more than just their skills to ministry—they bring their story, their emotions, and their deepest needs. In this breakout session, we’ll explore how your Primal Question—the core emotional need that drives your leadership—shapes the way you serve, lead, and interact with your team.
Behind the Scenes: A Panel Discussion on Audio/Visual Aspects of Worship Ministry Roundtable Discussion faciliated by Tom Gobebo
Every leader brings more than just their skills to ministry—they bring their story, their emotions, and their deepest needs. In this breakout session, we’ll explore how your Primal Question—the core emotional need that drives your leadership—shapes the way you serve, lead, and interact with your team. This session will be a roundtable discussion format.
Produced by the Georgia Baptist Mission Board
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