The UMC’s Discipleship Ministries agency may have canceled the 2019 School of Congregational Development (SCD); but Eastern PA Conference current and future church leaders have an equally impressive replacement event they can attend in August much closer to home. The Susquehanna Conference will host Navigate 2019 August 22-24 at the Radisson Hotel in Harrisburg.
The equipping leadership event promises “to help current and future leaders impact their congregations and communities for Jesus Christ. Experience dynamic worship, powerful speakers and compelling workshop leaders. Enjoy a medley of equipping opportunities or explore learning tracks for Revitalization, The Small Church, Lay Pastors, New Places for New People, Young Leaders and Conference Leaders. Invite your colleagues to join you and mark your calendars for this can’t-miss event.”
Discipleship Ministries canceled the popular, annual SCD for several stated reasons, including “the financial and political uncertainty we will face as a denomination post the Special Called General Conference.” In the meantime, the agency says it will “rethink the scope of the event and work on a new concept,” as it plans to offer church and conference leaders “a great re-launch in 2020.”
Navigate’s registration price is $199. Lodging and meals are separate. Registrants who cannot attend all three days can register for Saturday only for just $69. CEUs will be available. Visit theevent website and download and share the Navigate Promotional Flyer
In addition to target-group tracks, plenary session speakers include:
- “Our New Normal: Evangelism, Hospitality, Technology & Worship,” led by Olu Brown, pastor of the fast-growing Impact Church (UMC) in East Point, Ga.
- “Answering Jesus’ Call to Walk on Water,” led by Rosario Picardo, church planting expert, trainer and consultant.
- “Revitalizing Worship Through Creativity for Small Churches led by worship designer Jason Moore.
- “Coaching Upward, Outward and Inward: A Coaching Approach to Ministry” led by longtime clergy coach J. Val Hasting.
- “Busting Through Growth Barriers” led by Blake Bradford, a pastor, mission strategist and author.
- “Finding your Voice” led by JJ Warren, new college graduate, author and certified candidate for ministry.
View the promotional videos Navigate planners produced featuring host Bishop Jeremiah Park and event team members.