We are honored to host a special day of encouragement, connection, and celebration — recognizing the vital role you play in the Church and the Kingdom.
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Phillippe Performing Arts Center (IWU's Marion Campus)
$10/person
"Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
Philippians 1:6

Steve DeNeff is senior pastor of College Wesleyan Church in Marion, Indiana. He has more than 35+ years of pastoral experience and travels as a conference speaker and leadership trainer. He is the author of More Than Forgiveness and 7 Saving Graces and coauthor of the best-selling SoulShift.
Explore how artificial intelligence can support and strengthen your ministry, from sermon preparation to administrative efficiency. Learn practical, ethical ways to integrate AI while keeping your mission and message at the center.

Andy Miller
Executive Vice President, IWU — National and Global

Tiffany Snyder
Director of Faculty Engagement/Associate Professor, CFI, IWU
Rediscover the rhythms and practices that shape a vibrant, Christ-centered life. This session offers practical tools to cultivate deeper spiritual growth—both personally and within your congregation.

Connie Erpelding
Executive Director of Major and Planned Gifts, IWU
Discover fresh, engaging ways to disciple the next generation in a rapidly changing world. Gain practical ideas to build a safe, dynamic, and faith-forming environment for kids and families.

Amanda Drury
Professor, Religion, IWU
Connect with today’s students in meaningful ways that speak to their real questions and challenges. Explore strategies to build authentic relationships and foster lasting faith in the next generation.

Charlie Alcock
Assistant Professor Religion / Lead Chaplain, IWU
Reimagine worship as a transformative encounter that engages both heart and mind. Explore ways to lead gatherings that are authentic, Spirit-led, and deeply rooted in your community.

Josh Lavender
Worship Pastor, Spiritual Formation Office, IWU

Mike Tapper
Professor, Religion, IWU
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:30 AM | Registration and Coffee |
| 9:00 AM | Welcome + Worship |
| 9:30 AM | Keynote Session 1 | Pastor Steve DeNeff |
| 10:15 AM | Break |
| 10:30 AM | Breakout Sessions |
| 11:30 AM | Lunch (sponsored by the Crossroads District of the Wesleyan Church) |
| 1:00 PM | Keynote Session 2 |
| 2:00 PM | Breakout Sessions |
| 3:15 PM | Closing Worship + Prayer/Communion |
| 4:00 PM | Adjourn |
In a time marked by cultural division, spiritual drift, and leadership fatigue, the call to holiness is more vital than ever. Pastors & Church Leaders Day offers a unique space for renewal, challenge, and connection among those committed to shepherding the Church with integrity and purpose.
Engage deeply with this biblical mandate, not just as a doctrine but as a lived-out posture of leadership, unity, and witness in today’s world.
Be enriched by insights from a wide range of respected speakers and panelists—leaders who are actively embodying and advocating for holiness in diverse ministry contexts.
Through worship, prayer, and fellowship, find space to breathe, listen, and be renewed in your personal calling and spiritual walk.
Participate in honest, grace-filled dialogue about the challenges and opportunities facing church leaders today.
Join a growing network of pastors and ministry leaders from various denominational and cultural backgrounds, all united around a common call to holiness and Christlikeness.
Return to your context with renewed clarity, practical takeaways, and a deeper sense of purpose for the days ahead.