The Initiative is built for the task of preaching by preachers. We are pleased to offer a rich buffet of speakers who will provide meaningful tools and dialogue for the weekly rhythm of preaching. The schedule is varied with lecture and “workshop” type presentations. Each session offers an invitation into the world of preaching through scholarship, practical application, and collaborative learning.
Karoline Lewis – Keynote Speaker
Karoline Lewis is a theologian, speaker, teacher, author, and preacher. In addition to presenting at conferences, workshops, and retreats, she provides personal coaching in preaching and leadership to individuals, faith communities, and churches.
As Professor of Biblical Preaching and The Marbury E. Anderson Chair of Biblical Preaching at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minn., Karoline believes that those who will stand in the pulpits of the future church need to renew their trust in the Bible. A biblical text ought to be something more than a jumping-off point to doctrine or other random topics in a sermon. It should be our first and foremost resource for thinking theologically and making sense of the world. Read more about Karoline here.
Other Speakers Include:
Each year we ask a seasoned preacher to bring a word to us on our opening night titled, “Why Preaching Matters.” This year, we are pleased to welcome Bryan Moss, Senior Pastor at the Lake Como Church of Christ. If you want to read his bio you can look here. But if you have never heard Bryan… you need to hear Bryan. His passion for preaching is authentic and bold. This opening address will surely give us a beginning this conference deserves.
Darin Hollingsworth, long tenured (former) student minister at The Hills, founded RP3 Coaching and Renewal. Darren’s goal is to renew pastoral purpose and passion through soul care and staff development for church leaders. Darren has a wealth of wisdom and ready resources to help YOU to retain your passion as preacher. You can visit his website here. Darren’s session will focus on lessons from his own journey that can lead you to a deeper sense of calling for your church and leadership.
A writer, speaker, spiritual director, and peacemaker, Mallory Wyckoff is passionate about helping people in their faith journey. Having completed her dissertation on the impact of sexual trauma on survivors’ theological perception and spiritual formation, Mallory has a DMin in missional and spiritual formation. In all her work, Mallory is a trusted voice for people seeking to navigate their spirituality with curiosity, honesty, and courage. She lives with her husband and daughters in Florida despite hating seafood and being under 65. You can read more about Mallory on her website and also learn about her brand new book titled, God Is, which is available on Amazon (and it’s really good!). Mallory’s session will focus on how preaching can engage those who are in the midst of deconstructing unhelpful traditions and unhealthy views of God.
Aaron Niequist has been the worship pastor for such churches as Mars Hill (not the Mark Driscoll MH) and Willow Creek and is now in NYC living his best contemplative life with his family. Aaron describes himself as a “liturgist and author” who seeks to help pastors and churches develop a practice-based faith. Aaron’s session will help us, as preachers, understand how to move our message from the head and heart into our everyday hands. His most recent book, The Eternal Current, is a thought provoking guide into a deeper call to action and practice of faith. We are so fortunate to have Aaron join us this year!