Monday, October 14
1pm
Registration Opens
Grab your badge and get ready for some fun!
Main Entrance –
1500 West Anderson Lane
Austin, TX 78757
2:00-2:50pm
Sectional Sessions #1
Art . . . More Than Just Crafts
Speaker: Mary Helen Springfield
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School
Room: A-12 Art Room
Description: Come and find out ways to incorporate art into your classroom. Find ways to explore the elements of art and fun lessons to study famous artists.
Audio & Visual: Enhancing Worship Experiences with Existing Resources
Speaker: Mario Vargas, Owner
Organization: Gloria Dei Houston
Categories: Worship;
Room: Sanctuary
Description: Isn’t it funny how, when something goes wrong during a worship service, everyone immediately turns to the tech team, expecting us to fix it on the spot, as if we caused the issue on purpose? It’s really not. Come and learn how we can prevent these issues from happening and explore upgrades that can make our lives easier, all while considering our volunteers.
Emotional Intelligence for the Leader; Restoration and Rest – Part 1
Speaker: Matt Chambers and Lya Camp
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: High School/Administrators
Room: Commons
You may be familiar with the concepts of Emotional Intelligence and the growing psychological science behind it. This section will unpack two of the pillars of Emotional Intelligence for the leader, recognizing and regulating one’s emotions and how a leader can do a better job of self-care to be fully available to care for and lead others. Come ready to learn practical ways to recognize and regulate your own emotions so that you may be healthier in body, mind, and soul.
From Zero to Hero – Starting (or re-starting) a Youth Ministry
Speaker: Steven McCarthy
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran Church
Categories: Youth Ministry/DCE, Pastoral/Ministry work
Room: A15
Description: Are you struggling to start, re-start, maintain, or grow your church’s Youth Ministry? Join DCE Steven McCarthy as he shares the story of how God rebuilt a Middle School & High School Ministry at Redeemer after several years of dormancy and staff turnover during the Pandemic.
Greater Hospitality
Speaker: Adam Countryman
Organization: Countryman Consulting
Categories: Worship;
Room: Choir Room
Description: Hospitality is the most important ministry to the church when we are talking about our guests on a Sunday morning or at any given ministry event. These teams have been called “First Impressions” or “Guest Connections” teams but regardless of what you name it, it is the front line ministry of the church. Breaking down defenses and letting your guests know that Redeemer is a place they can feel safe, process their doubts, and ask any questions about their faith journey.
So much of what is involved in a hospitality team could seem obvious, however, it is very difficult to make this ministry work in a silo setting. It is a top-down mentality that needs to be embraced and believed in as a whole.
Incorporating PBL into Your Everyday Teaching
Speaker: Caitlin Copeland
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Middle School/High School
Room: D-40
Description: Project-Based Learning can be a great tool to help implement and assess everyday academic knowledge, but it can sometimes feel overwhelming or unmanageable. After teaching a class solely dedicated to PBL for three years, I have taken the most beneficial aspects and techniques and incorporated them into my daily classes to create an enriched learning environment and engaging assessments for my required curriculum.
Kindergarten Cop: Classroom Management Ideas
Speaker: Jamie Hormuth
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School, Middle School
Room: A-1
Description: The heart of teaching students of all ages is the same; strong relationships and clear boundaries. Learn classroom management tips from a preschool-8th grade music teacher; come away with fresh ideas and encouragement!
Play in the Upper Elementary Grades
Speaker: Rebecca Schelen
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School
Room: D-39
Description: As our students get older play seems to dissipate from the classroom. Whether this play is structured, or unstructured, our older kids still need this time to grow socially. Play can come in many different forms and in this session, we will look at a couple different ways we can still incorporate it into upper elementary classrooms.
REAL Ministry Volunteer Panel
Speaker: Amanda Iwabuchi
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran Church
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work; DCE and Children’s Ministries
Room: A5
Description: In search of volunteers for your ministry? No one in sight?
Hear from REAL volunteers in ministry. Why do they continue to serve? Listen to what ministry workers need to know, do, and support to continue to grow more volunteers in their department.
Rerouting: Adjusting Your Strategic Plan
Speaker: Jon Fraker
Organization: Epiphany Lutheran School
Categories: Administrators, Business of the Church
Room: D-38
Description: Your strategic plan is the bridge that connects your current reality to your preferred future, but what happens when things don’t go according to plan? In this session, we will look at the approach one ministry takes to adjust their strategic plan to keep it moving forward. Taking a different route doesn’t mean you have to change your destination.
Say It Like You Mean It: The Art of Brand-ishing Communication
Speaker: Christian Rumscheidt
Organization: Rumschiedt inc.
Categories: Business of the Church
Room: A2
Description: Join us for an engaging and insightful presentation designed for schools eager to revitalize their brand strategy. Discover how to transform your brand into more than just a logo, slogan, or color scheme. We’ll explore how to redefine your church’s brand by aligning it with family and member perceptions, and how to infuse your mission and values into every aspect of your communication. The outcome? Increased satisfaction, a sense of pride, and a renewed excitement for your daily work.
Set Apart to Serve
Speaker: Dr. James Baneck, Executive Director of Pastoral Education and Set Apart to Serve
Organization: LCMS
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work; Business of the church
Room: D42
Description: Current LCMS church workers tell us that those who most influenced them to consider full-time church work was their pastor, parents, Lutheran teacher, DCE, deaconess, and laity. This session will discuss how we can intentionally have conversations with youth and adults to consider full-time church work. Come and hear about the Set Apart to Serve resources and ways all of us can form and recruit workers who will preach, teach, and share the Good News of Jesus Christ that all may know Him and have eternal salvation.
Solution Focused & BRIEF
Speaker: Rev. Martin Danner
Organization: Bethany Austin
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work
Room: D43
Description: Mental health has always been a part of the spiritual equation as we are psychosocial spiritual beings redeemed through Christ. According to Barna Research younger generations are more likely to report battling with a number of mental health issues than previous. You don’t have to be a trained therapist in the church to help. Referrals are an important tool but you may have the relationship that will make all the difference. Solution Focused BRIEF therapy can give you a framework to encourage others to overcome and help people see that the old is going and the new has come.
STEM in the Elementary Classroom
Speaker: Chelsey Sheehan
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School
Room: A-13 STEM Room
Description: This session will offer a guide to creating a robust and engaging STEM program for elementary students.
Talking Pictures: How to Turn a Trip to the Movies into a Mission Trip
Speaker: Jacob Youmans
Organization: CTX
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work; DCE and Children’s Ministries; Education
Room: Youth Room
Description:
Overcoming Obstacles Through Coaching and Care
Speaker: Diane Bahn, Christiane Hobbs and Pastor Jim Otte
Organization: Texas District Worker Health Support Team
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work;Education;Worship;Business of the church;DCE and Children’s Ministries;personal wellness
Room: D41
Description: The Texas District Care and Coaching Team exists to support church workers and their spouses. In this session they will explain and demonstrate how coaching can help you overcome obstacles in your life and ministry.
Rooms vary. Please see session descriptions for details.
3:10-4:00pm
Sectional Sessions #2
Charting a Course for Mission Effectiveness
Speaker: Dr. David Bahn, Congregation Support Specialist
Organization: TX District LCMS
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work
Room: D41
Description: Strategic mission planning is a process of aligning. The churches resources with the communities needs, and the unique personality of the local congregation. We will explore how these three come together, and how important it is that we focus on God’s mission, and his vision for his church.
Emotional Intelligence for the Leader; Applying Empathy and Containment – Part 2
Speaker: Matt Chambers and Lya Camp
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: High School/Administrators
Room: Commons
Description: Part two of our discussion on Emotional Intelligence for the leader will focus upon the application of the Emotional Intelligence pillars of Empathy and Emotional Containment. The science is very clear on how impactful the use of Empathy and Emotional Containment is for leaders. Leaders who apply these create less stressful and vibrant environments for those in their care. Organizations with this kind of leadership thrive due to an emotional environment in which the strength of vulnerability is used to create deep connections and build trust.
Engaging Worship Leading
Speaker: Adam Countryman
Organization: Countryman Consulting
Categories: Worship
Room: Sanctuary
Description: Improving worship leading from planning to execution. Better engaging congregations in the overall worship experience
How to Build Your Retirement Paycheck
Speaker: Paul Endorf
Organization: Concordia Plans
Categories: Business of the Church/Education/Pastor/Ministry/DCE
Room: D42
Description: Your Concordia Retirement Plan (CRP) pension and Concordia Retirement Savings Plan (CRSP) 403(b) are key components as you plan for your financial future. This presentation will help you understand how these two benefits, provided through your employer, work together to provide a significant portion of your income in retirement.
LCMS Youth Gathering Pro Tips, Tricks, and New Events
Speaker: Charessa Koontz and Christiane Hobbs
Organization: 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering
Categories: DCE and Children’s Ministries;Pastoral/Ministry work;Youth Ministry
Room: Youth Room
Description: Join the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering Texas District Coordinators for a conversation about how to prepare for The Gathering! They will share the latest details about the 2025 Gathering, give tips for navigating the event and answer your questions.
Let’s Talk About Sex . . . Education (Lower Elementary)
Speaker: Jordan Vandergrifft and Kayla Brock
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School
Room: A-5
Description: Talking about sex/gender seems to be avoided sometimes. It feels like something that should be hidden, but the opposite is true. Let’s TALK about how and why God created sex and gender…and let’s talk about it with our students. They will hear about sex from someone; let’s have God’s word be the foundation for what they know and believe.
Let’s Talk About Sex . . . Education (Upper Elementary/Middle School)
Speaker: Sarah Brutlag
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School/Middle School
Room: D-38
Description: Helping teachers and others working with older elementary and youth discuss sexuality, gender, and the body with their students in alignment with Biblical truth while framing it in a positive lens rather than shame.
Making Prayer the Main Thing – Cultivating a Culture of Prayer in the LCMS
Speaker: Ben Gonzales
Organization: Texas District LCMS
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work;
Room: A7
Description: Listen in on a discussion from a panel of Church Workers in the LCMS who are contending for Spiritual Renewal in the LCMS through a posture of prayer. The panel includes multi-ethnic and multi-generational pastors, church planters, network leaders, missionaries, and worship leaders. You will gain personal and corporate practices and hear stories of breakthrough and mission through the power of prayer. There will also be time allotted for Q/A for attendees to ask the panel questions pertaining to prayer, practices and the mission of Jesus.
Play in the Upper Elementary Grades (Repeat Session)
Speaker: Rebecca Schelen
Organization: Redeemer School
Categories: Elementary School
Room: D-39
Description: As our students get older play seems to dissipate from the classroom. Whether this play is structured, or unstructured, our older kids still need this time to grow socially. Play can come in many different forms and in this session, we will look at a couple different ways we can still incorporate it into upper elementary classrooms.
Singing Thru the Scriptures
Speaker: John Stennfeld
Organization: Christ Lutheran Church – Austin
Categories: Worship
Room: Choir Room
Description: This session will introduce a valuable free hymn resource for planning worship services and devotional studies based upon the 3-year lectionary of the Lutheran Church. Every hymn on this website is written directly from one of the 4 readings assigned for the day for the entire 3 year lectionary, and all are written to familiar tunes from our Lutheran hymnals, thus the hymns are very laity and organist friendly. The website is organized by text, Sunday of the church year, and themes, so it can be easily navigated, and since the site and downloads are free, it is a quick and easy resource that can be used by pastors, teachers, music directors, and organists alike.
STEM in the Elementary Classroom (Repeat Session)
Speaker: Chelsey Sheehan
Organization: Redeemer School
Categories: Elementary School
Room: A-13 STEM Room
Description: This session will offer a guide to creating a robust and engaging STEM program for elementary students.
The Science of Teaching
Speaker: Jenette Wiatrek
Organization: Concordia Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School
Room: A-1
Description: Let’s dig into the science behind teaching reading! We will review the five pillars of reading and all the research behind teaching kids to read.
Tough Questions in the Classroom
Speaker: Kayla Winkler
Organization: Concordia High School
Categories: Middle School/High School
Room: D-40
Description: Students today are faced with an ever-changing culture which creates many unique questions posed in the classroom. This sectional will provide you with opportunities to share the questions you have encountered, some solutions to those questions, and resources to help you answer them as they continue to arise regardless of age group and subject matter. It is a time where we can learn from each other and discuss how to continue pointing our students towards Jesus outside of just religion time.
Quit Talking to Yourself – Effective Communication for All of Your Audiences
Speaker: Melissa Golding
Organization: Redeemer
Categories: Business of the Church
Room: A15
Description: As humans, we often communicate with the assumption that everyone has the same information we do. This can lead to confusion, alienation and hurt. Learn to identify your various audiences, whether current church members, your fellow staff, potential school families or your next disciples. All these groups have different communication needs…and they don’t sound or look like you. Redeemer Director of Communications, LCMS Texas District Evangelist, and LCMS Youth Gathering Social Media Manager, Melissa Golding discusses ways to effectively communicate to grow your ministry and make the most out your communications resources.
What GenZ Actually Says About GenZ
Speaker: Rev. Jacob Boessling
Organization: Concordia University Texas
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work;
Room: D43
Description: Join Concordia Univ. Texas campus ministry leaders Pat and Jake along with a few of their student leaders as they share what actual GenZ’ers (12-27 year olds) say about GenZ. Learn from the source about how they feel about the church, finances, technology, and other topics you want to hear about in our special q and a with the students.
Young Adults – Overlooked and Counted Out
Speaker: Steven McCarthy
Organization: Redeemer
Categories: DCE, Pastoral/Ministry work
Room: A2
Description: Is your church effectively reaching, engaging, and developing Young Adults? Let’s get real about some of the most overlooked people (not) in church. Many churches offer great ministry for Children, Youth, and Young Families, but what about those in the challenging window between graduation and starting a family? Let’s talk about this how best to reach this growing population.
Rooms vary. Please see session descriptions for details.
4pm-5pm
Educator of the Year Award
Commons
Meet Up: Church Administrators
Lightwell Lounge – Reception Room
Meet Up: DCE/Youth Workers
Youth Room
Meet Up: Pastors
Welcome Center
Meet Up: Worship
Choir Room
5-6:30pm
BBQ Dinner by the Holy Smokers
Gym and Field
6:30-7:20pm
Opening Worship
Sanctuary
7:30-8:30pm
Skit Guys presented by Texon Solar
Commons
Tuesday, October 15
7:00am
Registration Opens
Front Entrance
7:15am
Matins
Sanctuary
8:30-9:45am
Opening Devotion Led by Rev. Dr. Jon Braunersreuther
Keynote by Alan Graham
Sanctuary
10:00-10:50am
Large Room Sectionals
Essential to God Every Day
Speaker: Rick Weinheimer
Organization: Every Day Excellence with Rick Weinheimer, LLC
Categories: Elementary School/Middle School/High School
Room: Commons
Description: In 2020, the world labeled workers as “essential” and “non-essential.” It’s important for us to remember that those designations were man-made, not God-made. We are all essential to God and His plan, so what does this look like as we live our lives every day in 2024 and beyond? Let’s renew and re-energize around who God wants us to be!
Flexing New Muscle: Pastoring in Post-Christendom
Speaker: Jeff Cloeter
Organization: Christ Memorial
Room: Sanctuary
Description: Jeff Cloeter is the Senior Pastor of Christ Memorial Lutheran Church in St. Louis, Missouri. Over the course of 20 years, Jeff has worked in youth ministry, church planting, and senior leadership in his congregation. He has served on the board of directors for the Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis, and the founding board of Momentum Academy, a charter school movement in the City of St. Louis. He founded and serves as director of The Harbor Leadership Collective, raising up young Christian leaders through a regional internship model. He currently serves on an ecumenical council called Oikos, with the Archbishop of St. Louis and 8 other pastors from the region.
Jeff is the author of Loved & Sent. He blogs at sixthgen.com. He is married to Bobbi and father to Bella, Joshua, Emily, and Jacob.
Texas DCE News, Resources and Encouragement
Speaker: Christiane Hobbs
Organization: Texas LCMS
Categories: DCE/Youth Ministry
Room: Youth Room
Description: Meet with Christiane Hobbs to learn about what is happening around the district, find new resources and more.
What are we doing here? Operations of the Church
Speakers: Melissa Golding, Jodi Hayes, Kevin Lovell, and Steve Saunders
Organization: Redeemer
Room: Lightwell Lounge – Reception Room
Description: You don’t preach, teach or sing, but you are an integral part of your organizations ministry. During this collaborative session, we’ll talk about the unique challenges we face as the church workers behind the scenes making the machine go.
Worship Discussion Panel
Speaker: Steven Krueger
Organization: Redeemer
Categories: Worship
Room: Choir Room
Description: Join us for a discussion panel with experienced worship leaders. Bring your questions and thoughts on the challenges you face, and let our panel offer insights to support and encourage you. You’re also welcome to share your own experiences. Together, let’s uplift one another in both the struggles and successes of worship ministry.
Rooms Vary. Please see description for details.
11:10am-12pm
Sectional Sessions #3
Art . . . More Than Just Crafts
Speaker: Mary Helen Springfield
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School
Room: A-12 Art Room
Description: Come and find out ways to incorporate art into your classroom. Find ways to explore the elements of art and fun lessons to study famous artists.
Christ in Every Word: Integrating the Faith into the Implicit and Explicit Curriculum
Speaker: Dr. Hannah Meineke
Organization: Concordia University Texas
Categories: Elementary School/Middle School/High School
Room: D39
Description: Parents have many choices when it comes to where their children will attend school. Although it is important to be competitive in all categories, faith integration truly sets Lutheran schools apart from other educational opportunities. Dr. Hannah Meineke examines how faith is both implicitly and explicitly built into the school day and gives educators practical ways to discuss and discover more daily faith integration. Hannah also asks educators to consider their ideology, values and offers the ability to name and own what they are already doing to help students grow in their faith.
Community Outreach through ESL Classes
Speaker: Rev. Lincon Guerra
Organization: Texas District, LCMS
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work
Room: D43
Description: In this workshop, we will explore the transformative potential of community outreach through English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. Designed for church leaders, educators, and community organizers, this session will provide practical strategies for using ESL programs as a tool for ministry and engagement with diverse populations. Participants will learn how to design and implement effective ESL ministry that meets the needs of non-native speakers in their communities. We will discuss best practices for creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, fostering meaningful relationships, and supporting the holistic development of participants in a Christ-centered environment. Additionally, the workshop will cover ways to partner with local congregations and leverage resources to enhance the impact of your outreach efforts. Whether you are starting a new ESL program or looking to enhance an existing one, this workshop offers valuable insights and practical tools to make a lasting difference in your community.
Emotions and Connecting with Jesus
Speaker: Steve and Jamie Wiechman
Organization: Breathe Life Ministries
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work; DCE and Children’s Ministries; church worker care
Room: A5
Description: Are you interested in a rich connection with Jesus?
Do you sometimes find your emotions troublesome?
Do you ever wonder how to interact with your emotional reactions in a way that enhances your faith life?
Steve and Jamie Wiechman of Breathe Life Ministries will discuss the created gift of emotions. They will guide you in a practice of noticing your emotions and bringing them to Jesus in a way that opens the door to receiving tangible grace gifts from him.
Expect to leave this session feeling refreshed and more connected to God and yourself.
Great by Choice: First Article Leadership for Your Ministry
Speaker: Dr. Jon Braunersreuther, Director of Districtwide Strategy
Organization: Texas District – LCMS
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work; Business of the church
Room: D42
Description: This session will explore the First Article gifts in the work of Jim Collins (Good to Great, Great by Choice, How the Mighty Fall, etc.) and the practical ways you can apply the insights to your church, school, or other ministry.
Help! I’m Tired and Burned Out: Talking About the 7 Types of Rest We All Need
Speaker: Grant Carey
Organization: CTX
Categories: DCE and Children’s Ministries; Pastoral/Ministry work; Burnout/Rest
Room: Youth Room
Description: Not all rest is created equally! We’ll discuss why we’re so tired and how to address specific types of sabbath in our lives and ministry. We’ll even try a few practical spiritual exercises that will hopefully leave you feeling more refreshed.
Incorporating PBL into Your Everyday Teaching (Repeat Session)
Speaker: Caitlin Copeland
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Middle School/High School
Room: D40
Description: Project-Based Learning can be a great tool to help implement and assess everyday academic knowledge, but it can sometimes feel overwhelming or unmanageable. After teaching a class solely dedicated to PBL for three years, I have taken the most beneficial aspects and techniques and incorporated them into my daily classes to create an enriched learning environment and engaging assessments for my required curriculum.
Keeping Up to Date with Happenings in the Texas Legislature
Speaker: Laura Colangelo
Organization: Texas Private Schools Association
Categories: Administrators
Room: Commons
Description: As the Executive Director of Texas Private Schools Association, Laura has forged valuable relationships and alliances with numerous Senators and Representatives in Texas state government. She will bring us up to date with the happenings in Austin and note areas where we can join to become a powerful voice for our families in private schools.
Literacy Activities for the Elementary Classroom
Speaker: Cheryl Stephenson
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School
Room: A7
Description: The session highlights reading and spelling activities aligned with the Science of Reading that will boost any program or curriculum. Primarily for K-2 classroom, but principles apply to any grade level.
Liturgy and Discipleship: How the Redeemed World is Done
Speaker: Jim Marriott
Organization: Faith Lutheran Church, Georgetown
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work; Worship
Room: Choir Room
Description: In this breakout, we’ll explore the connection between Christian worship behaviors and their application to the daily life of discipleship. Rooted in an understanding of the two kinds of righteousness, behaviors such as hospitality, reconciliation, advocacy, generosity, and many others help connect God’s work for us in Christ to our Christian work for our neighbor.
SAFE Families
Speaker: Cheyenne Erickson
Organization: Safe Families for Children
Categories: Business of the church;Pastoral/Ministry work;DCE and Children’s Ministries
Room: A2
Description: When a crisis strikes, many of us rely on relatives and friends for support. But for some families, poverty and social isolation mean that they have no support networks when they need them the most. Safe Families temporarily hosts children and provides family-like support to parents through community of compassionate volunteers. We stand in the gap and provide a safety net for families dealing with a crisis in a vacuum. Our volunteers are vetted and trained to provide relationships and resources to parents while they get back on their feet.
SIMPLE Operations:
Speaker: Steve Saunders
Organization: Answer.Consulting
Categories: Business of the church
Room: A15
Description: Insights from Acts 6 for streamlining operations through Biblical principles.
Talking with Parents: How to Help Them Understand Their Kids
Speaker: Matt Chambers and Kyle Connealy
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Middle School/High School
Room: D38
Description: Prior to every school year, educators work very hard to prepare parents for school with clear explanations about procedures, the required school supplies, where to drop off and pick up their children, and expectations for the year. However, what about helping parents understand the struggle of kids entering their late elementary, middle school and high school years in terms of the reality of their brain development, the cultural landscape they are facing, and the effects of technology on their growth? Come to learn about some successful approaches in engaging with parents about their children’s social and biological changes, the cultural challenges their kids are facing, and how to partner with them better.
We Like to Move It!
Speaker: Jamie Hormuth and Jana Redmond
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School
Room: A1
Description: Kids were designed to play and move! Today’s session will give ANY elementary teacher movement ideas (games, dances, and activities) that they can apply in any classroom to feed their students’ natural, God-given desire to be creative and active.
What is Evangelist Training?
Speaker: Deaconess Noemí Guerra
Organization: Texas District, LCMS
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry Work
Room: D41
Description: Introduction to the Evangelist Training Ministry
Rooms Vary. Please see session description.
12:00-1:00pm
Lunch
Gym
1:10-2:00pm
Session Sectionals #4
Aquaponics – Excellent Educational Tool and Service Opportunity
Speaker: Nick Weiss
Organization: Prince of Peace Christian School
Categories: Middle School/High School
Room: D40
Description: Five years ago, we built an aquaponics system. The next year, we built another five. We are currently in the fourth year of doing student research projects, and we’re preparing to host the fourth annual Aquaponics Research Dinner for parents. Each year, we improve at growing thanks to the work that students are doing to learn the systems. In this session, learn how to take a biological process that happens in lakes and streams every day and bring it into the classroom where you can use it to teach numerous science concepts and grow healthy produce for your school.
Are we on the same page? Worship Planning and Tools for Worship
Speaker: Jordan Miller
Organization: Salem Lutheran Church
Categories: Worship;
Room: Sanctuary
Description: Best practices for communicating and planning Worship services so that the service can be done in excellence while everyone will know what is happening. We will include the use of planning tools and software (such as Planning Center Online), Presentation Tools, (Propresenter 7), as well as tips from personal experience from success and failures in planning worship.
Awakening Solar Opportunities: Empowering Our Ministries
Speaker: Pastor Tony Kobak
Organization: Lamb of God
Categories: Business of the Church
Room: A2
Description: Join us in exploring an incredible opportunity to ignite our spirits and empower our ministries through solar energy! Come see how Lamb of God in Humble, Texas, was able to do just that. By installing solar panels on your church campus, you can embrace environmental responsibility while unlocking new funding avenues for innovative outreach programs in the Kingdom of God. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act passed in 2023, the federal government will cover up to 70 percent of your installation costs. Pastor Tony has personally witnessed the transformative impact of this initiative in two congregations where he has served. In one church, the savings generated have funded an entire vicarage program for the past 12 years. Come discover how your congregation might eliminate its electric bill and use that money for a new ministry for His Kingdom!
Care and Feeding of the Church Musicians
Speaker: Stephanie Poyner
Organization: Lamb or God Lutheran Church
Categories: Education; Business of the church; Pastoral/Ministry work
Room: Choir Room
Description: Let’s think beyond the music! Come and discuss ideas we can spiritually care for our musicians as they serve in worship.
Communicating Effectively with All Types of People (with a little help from God)
Speaker: Rick Weinheimer
Organization: Every Day Excellence with Rick Weinheimer, LLC
Categories: Elementary School/Middle School/High School
Room: Commons
Description: In this session we will examine our “default” communication styles, recognize the various styles of others, become aware of communication as a factor in leadership, and discuss how to use knowledge effectively. Information will include strategies, activity, and next steps to put what was learned into practice.
Drunk, Hungry, and Hopeless: The story of launching La Mesa Ministries
Speaker: Rev. Jacob Boessling
Organization: Texas District, LCMS
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work;
Room: D41
Description: The story of La Mesa (Spanish: “the table”) is best described as a group of middle-upper class suburban Christians joining Jesus on His mission to go a dozen miles west of their campus to launch an all inclusive meal and worship on Tuesday evenings in Mesa, Arizona. Hundreds of lives have been changed because the church left the building to be radically transformed week after week and year after year of mutually beneficial relationships. Join Jake as he tells the story of helping launch the ministry 10 years ago, empowering others to lead it when he left, and how you can think about what God might be calling you to do with those drunk, hungry, and hopeless within a mile or a dozen miles from your local church.
Empowering Students: Navigating Technology Safely and Responsibly
Speaker: Kayla Brock
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary and Middle School
Room: A5
Description: In today’s digital age, technology is an integral part of students’ lives, offering endless opportunities for learning and growth. However, it also presents unique challenges and risks. This talk aims to equip educators, parents, and students with the knowledge and tools to use technology safely and responsibly. We will explore practical strategies for fostering digital literacy, protecting personal information, and promoting positive online behavior. Join us to learn how to create a safe and supportive digital environment that empowers students to thrive in the modern world.
Literacy Activities for the Elementary Classroom (Repeat)
Speaker: Cheryl Stephenson
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School
Room: A7
Description: The session highlights reading and spelling activities aligned with the Science of Reading that will boost any program or curriculum. Primarily for K-2 classroom, but principles apply to any grade level.
Overstimulation in the Next Generation (Repeat)
Speaker: Kaylee Nungaray
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School
Room: A1
Description: More than ever, the importance of play is needed because of the broad and long-lasting effects of technology in the next generation. Listen and discuss ideas related to play to combat the influence of technology.
The Alphas are Here: The latest research on the newest generation
Speaker: Jacob Youmans
Organization: CTX
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work;DCE and Children’s Ministries;Education
Room: Youth Room
Description:
THE ISLAND: Taking Your Learners Out of the Classroom into New Worlds
Speaker: Kyle Connealy
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Middle School/High School
Room: D38
Description: Out of classroom experiences on campus can increase engagement and deepen learning. In this session, we will look at taking your children on the Island for Lord of the Flies, on the farm of Animal Farm, and the roads of Mississippi for Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry.
Understanding the Next Generation of Teachers
Speaker: Dr. Hannah Meineke
Organization: Concordia University Texas
Categories: Administrators
Room: D39
Description: Concordia Texas Professor of Education Dr. Hannah Meineke discusses ways in which teacher recruitment and retention has changed and will continue to change. She addresses the latest trends in hiring and certification. Current Concordia Texas Pre-Service teachers speak on their educational beliefs, values, and aspirations. This session will serve as a platform for discussion around obtaining teachers, recognizing assets, and increasing support of young future teachers.
Why Assimilation Falls Short of Making Disciples—and How It Can Actually Propel Your Mission Forward
Speaker: Jason Phelps and Brian Phipps
Organization: Disciples Made FULLY ALIVE & Gloria Dei Lutheran Church
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work;DCE and Children’s Ministries
Room: D43
Description: Assimilation might seem like the key to integrating new members into your church, but it often falls short of creating true disciples. So, why does this process sometimes miss the mark? More importantly, how can you harness assimilation to fuel genuine discipleship and growth? Discover the missing link between welcoming newcomers and fostering a vibrant community of fully committed followers. This session will reveal how you can transform your assimilation strategy from a simple onboarding process into a powerful catalyst for discipleship. Don’t miss the chance to unlock the full potential of your church’s mission!
Rooms vary. Please see session description.
2:10-3:00pm
Sectional Sessions #5
Additional Funding Opportunities for your Lutheran School
Speaker: Dr. Thomas Wrege
Organization: DAST Consulting
Categories: Administrators
Room: D39
Description: At DAST Consulting, we do not believe in creating dependence on government funding and programs but view them as short-term capacity builders that create space for long-term financial resilience. We love helping Christian schools develop alternative revenue streams and innovative, long-term sustainable funding options.
ALL THE GEAR! Equipment for Worship Band and Tech
Speaker: Steven Krueger (possibly others)
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran Church
Categories: Worship
Room: Sanctuary
Description: Worship leaders or musicians (in general) know what music they like and can do and how to put together a team. But having the right gear to execute it at a high level each Sunday may be a challenge. Perhaps you have issues with audio not sounding right or the livestream not being it’s best. This session focuses on what musical and Audio/Visual equipment, resources, and training are needed to help you get the best of what you have OR what you want – no matter your budget.
Empowered Learning: 21st Century Project-Driven Teaching
Speaker: Kerrie Roesler
Organization: Trinity Klein Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School/Middle School/High School
Room: A7
Description: New to Project-Based Learning? Join us as we investigate what it takes to implement student-driven, authentic, and meaningful PBLs in your school. This sectional will cover initial professional development, teacher encouragement and training as a facilitator, community engagement, planning phases, “the Grand Finale”, and assessment. Project-based learning empowers students to become real world problem-solvers!
Guatemala Mission with Child Beyond Intl.
Speaker: Roger Howard, Director of Worship
Organization: Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work
Room: D41
Description: Hear about our September 2024 experience on a short-term mission trip to Guatemala with Child Beyond International and explore the possibilities of sending people from your congregation.
How to Love Where You Live: Simple Ways to Live Missionally
Speaker: Jacob Youmans
Organization: CTX
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work;DCE and Children’s Ministries;Education
Room: Youth Room
Description:
Middle School Can Be Fun!
Speaker: Sarah Blake
Organization: Trinity Klein Lutheran School
Categories: Middle School
Room: D40
Description: Sometimes we think that stations, colorful notes, puzzles, games, and craft-like activities are only for the lower grades, but they can be used effectively with middle schoolers, as well! These things can especially help make math class more engaging and productive, but many ideas can be adapted for other subjects and used for a variety of grade levels.
Overstimulation in the Next Generation (Repeat)
Speaker: Kaylee Nungaray
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School
Room: A1
Description: More than ever, the importance of play is needed because of the broad and long-lasting effects of technology in the next generation. Listen and discuss ideas related to play to combat the influence of technology.
Re-Envision Disciple Making
Speaker: Jason Phelps and Brian Phipps
Organization: Disciples Made FULLY ALIVE & Gloria Dei Lutheran Church
Categories: Pastoral/Ministry work;DCE and Children’s Ministries
Room: D42
Description: If Jesus’ promise in John 10:10 is true—if He really came to offer us life in all its fullness—why aren’t our churches bursting at the seams with people eager to be transformed by His way of life? Why do we struggle to inspire others to embrace the call of spiritual leadership and extend Jesus’ mission as passionately as we do? If you dream of leading your church to become a thriving hub of disciple-makers but find yourself stuck in a cycle of unfulfilled potential, simply revving up your current efforts won’t spark the change you’re looking for.
It’s time to Re-Envision Disciple-Making. In this breakout session, join Jason Phelps, Discipleship Director at Gloria Dei in Houston, and Brian Phipps, founder of Disciples Made, as they redefine what it means to be a disciple. They will offer a fresh perspective grounded in redemptive historical theology—a definition that is not only clear and measurable but also profoundly compelling on both an emotional and spiritual level. This is your chance to ignite a movement of Fully Alive disciples and disciple-makers. Don’t miss out—be part of the transformation!
Reframing Behavior: Crisis Prevention Institute
Speaker: Tracy King
Organization: Trinity Klein Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School/Middle School/High School/Administrators
Room: A5
Description: As our students navigate an ever-changing world, teachers and administrators navigate more and more dysregulated behavior in their schools. Reframing Behavior establishes 4 key elements to help professionals in schools shift discipline from something we do with our student to something we create within our students.
Reinvigorating the Musical Arts
Speaker: Matt Chambers and Jamie Hormuth
Organization: Redeemer Lutheran School
Categories: Elementary School/Middle School/High School
Room: D38
Description: A tremendous challenge for Musical Arts Education for churches and schools is drawing students out of deeply patterned social and online behaviors and into pursuits in the musical arts which provide such powerful experiences and opportunities for social, emotional, and spiritual growth. A strong commitment to building these programs can help create cultural cornerstones for any organization and enhance other programs along the way. Come learn about and get some resources for middle school and high school musical productions, new approaches to choir and instrumental groups, student worship leading, and ideas for how to build a program from elementary school into middle school and high school.
Rooms vary. Please see session description for details.