A Transformative Experience

A Church Boot Camp, hosted by New Faith Communities on Thursday, November 7, 2024, was a transformative experience that brought together over 35 passionate attendees from various churches across the conference. Held at Connect UMC in Oklahoma City, this full-day event was filled with impactful learning and meaningful connections, leaving participants inspired and better equipped to advance church development and outreach.

Under the theme “One Day of Power,” the boot camp featured a lineup of exceptional leaders and presenters who shared invaluable strategies on church growth, leadership, and community engagement. Moderated by Rev. Adam Shahan, the sessions were a blend of insightful teachings, interactive discussions, and The Dream practical takeaways.

The day began with Rev. Dr. Mark Foster, who invited participants to reflect on the critical question, “Who is God Calling You to Reach?” He set the tone by encouraging church leaders to embrace innovative approaches to engage their communities. Following him, Revs. Drs. Elvyn and Bessie Hamilton’s session on “Uncovering Your Ride or Die of Shalom” emphasized the significance of finding a person of peace and the power of partnership. In her session on “Building a Launch Team,” Rev. Heather Scherer highlighted the importance of cultivating a dedicated and mission-driven group to propel church initiatives forward.

The afternoon sessions were focused on providing practical tools to enhance church operations and outreach. Rev. Carlos Ramirez’s presentation, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” challenged attendees to rethink how churches can intentionally engage with their surrounding communities. Rev. Adam Ricks explored the topic, “No Office, No Problems,” underscoring the value of evangelism and the urgency of reaching people for Christ. Creative insights from Rev. Matt Austin and Rev. Matt Patrick on “2 Birds, 1 Stone: The Alternative Income Model” offered church leaders fresh perspectives on diversifying resources to build sustainable ministries. Additionally, Rev. Chris Dodson’s talk on “Managing Stress & Self-Care” provided essential strategies for church leaders to sustain their well-being amid the demands of ministry.

The closing session by Rev. Dr. Derrek Belase, titled “Connectionally Committed,” tied everything together by emphasizing the importance of collaboration and collective effort in fulfilling the church’s mission.

Throughout the day, the atmosphere was one of camaraderie, inspiration, and shared learning. Attendees left with renewed vision, actionable strategies, and a deeper commitment to growing their ministries. The Dream A Church training—it was a transformative experience that empowered leaders to dream bigger, reach further, and serve their communities more effectively.

This gathering was truly a testament to the power of collective wisdom and the movement of the Spirit among those called to build vibrant and inclusive faith communities.

A group of church leaders came together for a transformative boot camp experience centered on church planting and revitalization.

Multiple speakers offered sessions on topics like “Won’t You Be My Neighbor” by Rev. Carlos Ramirez and “Managing Stress and Self Care” by Rev. Chris Dodson.

Multiple speakers offered sessions on topics like “Won’t You Be My Neighbor” by Rev. Carlos Ramirez and “Managing Stress and Self Care” by Rev. Chris Dodson.

Multiple speakers offered sessions on topics like “Won’t You Be My Neighbor” by Rev. Carlos Ramirez and “Managing Stress and Self Care” by Rev. Chris Dodson.