“Surge: Discipleship for Ordinary Life”

with Dave Groen

In this session, we’ll be exploring a 9-month discipleship program called Surge. Developed by a group of churches, Surge was created to provide a space where men and women can reimagine just how integral their everyday lives are to the mission of God. It operates on the conviction that we don’t need to seek a more “spiritual” calling, but rather learn how to faithfully serve Jesus in the neighborhoods and workplaces we’re already part of.

“Deacons 101”

with Gary Veeneman

This workshop is designed for new deacons to learn about their role, but also for experienced deacons to be refreshed and to share their insights with those who are new. Incoming deacons will be inspired to actively engage in their diaconate, appreciate previous diaconal work done by the church, and be given a chance to share their aspirations for future endeavours. At the end of the workshop all participants will emerge with more of a unified understanding of their role as deacons and be more familiar with Diaconal Ministries Canada and how it can support their diaconate.

“Leading as a Woman Part 1: Challenges & Strengths”

with Jenna Fabiano

This is a slightly adapted version of the workshop that was offered last year. This year, with the addition of a part two (see the afternoon sessions), there is more space for dialogue and sharing of stories and experiences.
Being appointed as a leader of the church as a woman can come with unique or unexpected challenges, many of which don’t come to the surface until one is already in the role. What are some of these challenges? What are some of the gifts women offer which help them to face some of these challenges? Join us as we share, discuss, and learn about the unique gifts that women offer to the church and how those gifts can be used to the maximum potential.

“Tips for Visiting People with Dementia”

with Steve Berkenpas

Visiting those with dementia has a unique set of challenges, often leading people to be under visited and cared for. I know in my own circles visiting a person with dementia can end up being so discouraging that we can be fearful in even arranging another the visit. This breakout will open with some practical considerations of what dementia is and how a Christian perspective provides hope. It will also focus on some practical tips on how to do effective visits with both those with dementia and their caregivers.

“Spiritual Formation for Church Leaders”

with Brad Sumner

How we define and do our work together as church leaders can either enhance or undo our spiritual formation as people. In this session, we will explore if it is possible or realistic to see our leadership responsibilities such as meetings and administration as spiritual formation moments. We will learn how the means to achieve our mandates must not be at odds to our ends.

“Safe Church”

with Jiyoung Jung & Faye Martin

“How to Lead a Meeting”

with Andre VanRyk

Using experience and research we hope to provide information and ideas to help you lead a productive and efficient meeting. For beginners and veterans we expect there will be learnings for everyone.

“What does a Deacon actually do?”

with Erik deLange

Whether it’s your first term as a Deacon, or your 10th, come to this session to learn a bit about how to love your church and your community through the office to which you have been called.

“The Art of a Spirit-Filled Visit”

with Mike Koot

How can a simple visit become a moment where someone truly feels seen, known, and loved by Jesus? In this breakout session, we’ll explore how to turn pastoral and elder visits into meaningful encounters that gently fan the spark of faith in those we visit. Through practical “how-to” guidance—covering everything from preparation to follow-up—you’ll gain tools to approach visits with confidence, attentiveness, and spiritual intentionality. We’ll also talk through common pitfalls and “visit traps,” equipping you to navigate difficult moments with grace and purpose. This session is geared toward Elders and Deacons who are newer to visiting.

“How to Find Your Missional Identity”

with Albert Chu

How do you develop a missional culture and identity for your church? How can council and leaders help the church be more on God’s mission to redeem and restore all things? After all, God IS a missionary God. Mission is a movement from God to the world and we, the church, is that instrument for that mission.

“Crucial Conversations”

with Ken Ritsema

How to embrace conflict with Christian truth and love. This applies to areas of leadership, pastoral care, discipleship, etc. In fact, the health of a congregation is often tied to whether these conversations are happening, or not. This session will give you a perspective and framework to discover how these difficult conversations can become opportunities for growth. They may even be God’s tool to move you to a place you didn’t think was possible!

“Mental Illness and Church Leadership”

with Leanne Koot

This session explores the often-overlooked intersection of mental illness and church leadership. We’ll engage in honest conversation about the unique challenges leaders face when navigating their own mental health or supporting others who struggle. Together, we’ll consider how to foster a culture of compassion, reduce stigma, and create space for vulnerability within leadership teams. Whether you’ve faced mental illness personally or want to better support others, this breakout offers insight, practical tools, and hope for a healthier, more honest approach to leadership in the Church. Let’s build communities where brokenness is met with grace.

“Discipleship ABCs”

with Wilma Vanderleek

In a time of constant change, church leaders often struggle to know where to focus. This session invites leaders to return to the essentials—what 1Life calls the “foundations”—through the lens of the five core callings of the CRCNA (called to worship, to form and pass on faith, to practice justice & mercy, to raise up new leaders, and to live missionally). Participants will explore each calling as a gift that helps illuminate a path toward a more holistic, faithful, and practical Christian life. Attendees will leave with fresh insight into how their congregation can engage the five callings and make the most of 1Life’s resources.

“More than Just “Nice Sermon, Pastor”

with Chris deWinter

How can church councils and elders offer constructive feedback on preaching that supports growth, faithfulness, and encouragement? This session equips leaders with practical tools for sermon evaluation. We’ll explore types of evaluation (content, clarity, gospel-centeredness, delivery) and how to establish healthy rhythms of regular feedback that serve both preacher and congregation. This session will help your team give feedback that’s thoughtful, honest, and actually helpful.

“Leading as a Woman Part 2:  A Biblical Defense for Women in Leadership”

with Jenna Fabiano

For many women, stepping into a position of leadership is challenging on a number of different levels, but these challenges often boil down to one specific conversation: What does Scripture really say about women in leadership? This workshop is geared towards anyone who is looking for a clearer understanding of how Scripture speaks about women’s roles in the church. Warning: there is a lot of information and Scripture to pack into a short amount of time, so be prepared for a firehose.