Workshops

Hands-On Mission Project: Rise Against Hunger
Location: East Hall
Presenters/Leaders: Rise Against Hunger

Rise Against Hunger, an international humanitarian organization, is growing a global movement to end hunger by empowering communities, nourishing lives, and responding to emergencies. The Rise Against Hunger Meal Packaging Experience is a hands-on opportunity to directly contribute to nourishing lives around the globe. We combine an assembly- line process with an educational experience that makes a worldwide impact. GNJ hopes for 300 people to pack over 50,000 meals at Annual Conference 2023!

The Role of Congregational Leaders in a Vital Church
Location: Ballroom A. (Registration Limit: 250 participants)
Presenters/Leaders: William M. Williams, III

Christian spiritual and temporal leadership are critical in the vitality of a congregation. As communities and churches continue to change, a strong and meaningful strategic direction of the church is critically important. This workshop will focus on the importance of the laity in the vitality of the church through work on committees such as Staff Pastor Parish Relations Committee, the Committee on Nominations and Leadership Development, and other aspects of the church that help mold a church’s strategic direction.

Bridging Beyond Our Walls
Location: Ballroom B. (Registration limit: 200)
Presenters/Leaders: Alyssa Ruch

The Bridges Project, a conference initiative funded by a grant from the Lilly Endowment, recognizes an increasing need to equip congregations with the proper tools to engage the diversity of their surrounding communities. This workshop will offer participants a glimpse of “the best of the best” of The Bridges Project with the opportunity to experiment with interactive tools for engagement, connection, and uncovering our why. Participants will leave with eyes open and hearts ready to engage in hands-on community practice.

Financial Security for Clergy
Location: Ballroom C. (Registration limit: 140)
Presenters/Leaders: Bob Christophel

Covered will be the voluntary United Methodist Personal Investment Plan (UMPIP), different ways to contribute; investments in the plan, and an overview of the services available to our participants. Benefit Projections will be provided to those who register in advance.

A Prayer Experience
Location: Prayer Room/Meeting Rooms 2 & 3. (Registration Limit: 50)
Presenters/Leaders: Shawn Callender Hogan and Jeff Markay

Through hands-on activities, prayer practices, and a Taizé chant, Jeff Markay and Shawn Callender Hogan will invite you to reflect on God’s grace amid brokenness.