2026 Stronger Conference

Pastors, staff, and lay leaders from all of our FEB Central churches—please join us April 27-`28, 2026 for our annual STRONGER Conference. This conference exists to inspire, equip, and strengthen church leaders. We hope to see you and your team there!

Who Is It For?

This gathering has been designed in order to support the staff and lay leaders of our churches.

What Is the Purpose?

Our goal is to inspire, equip and strengthen the ministry of your local church through biblical teaching, Christ-centered fellowship and faithful resources.

What Can We Expect?

Two days of teaching, workshops and breakouts, connecting with other pastors and ministry staff/volunteers and encouragement from the Word as you are resourced to continue in your service to the local church.

1. Select your conference tickets
   Group rates are available for attendees from the same church.
2. Add meal tickets during registration (scroll down the list)
   Available options include Monday Lunch, Tuesday Lunch, and Tuesday Dinner.
3. Don’t miss Tuesday Dinner!
   Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, we are hosting an onsite dinner featuring great food and meaningful fellowship.
   Cost: $15 per person
   Limit: One dinner ticket per conference ticket holder

• Review the Workshops listed in the Agenda section.
  You will select four workshop choices for each conference ticket holder during checkout.
• Step 1: Assign names to each conference ticket
  The purchaser will automatically be listed as Ticket Holder 1. Enter the name of the second attendee as Ticket Holder 2, and so on.
• Step 2: Assign meal tickets
  Use the dropdown menu on each meal ticket to copy attendee information by selecting the appropriate ticket holder number (Ticket Holder 1, 2, 3, etc.).

Need assistance?
Please contact Eric at — happy to help.

• All Meals are served on site to allow you more time to connect and fellowship with one another!
• Advance purchase is required. Limited tickets will be available in the last 7 days before Stronger Conference begins - get your tickets early and save!

1. Monday Lunch

• Smoke & Timber Catering - Only $25 / person
• 2 Meats & 2 Sides Party Package (you will choose): Pulled Pork and/or Chopped Chicken Thighs with Street Corn Salad and/or Broccoli Salad

2. Tuesday Lunch

• Chick-fil-A Catering - Prices vary
• Choose Deluxe Chicken Sandwich ($18), Grilled Chicken Sandwich ($19) with Waffle Fries Chips and a Cookie (or upgrade your chips to a side salad for only $2)
• Gluten free option: Grilled Chicken Chunks with side salad ($16)
• A Can of Pop or Bottle of Water will also be provided with every meal.

3. Tuesday Dinner

• Smoke & Timber Catering - Only $15 / person ($50 value)
• Stay for dinner with great food and fellowship! Thanks to our sponsors we are able to provide this meal for only $15 per person - Limit 1 dinner per ticket!
• Choose Brisket, Salmon, or Quarter Chicken (white or dark) meals!
• All options include loaded bake potatoes, grilled vegetables and summer salad.

We have 4 hotels which have offered us group rates. They are listed below. You must mention you are part of the FEB Central Conference in order to receive the group rate.

Before booking a hotel: We suggest that you check the hotel website before booking as often you can get specials, discounts or senior rates that may be even better than the group rate prices.

1. Super 8 by Wyndham, Barrie - 441 Bryne Drive, Barrie, ON L4N 6C8

Approximately 6 mins from the conference venue. 10% discount off cost of room at booking. You must call to obtain group rate, booking online will not allow for group rate discount.
To receive the discount mention you are attending the FEB Central Conference (code: LP10)
To reserve a room, call: 705-814-8888 to obtain the group rate. Rooms can be booked until discounted rooms are full.

Includes a hot buffet breakfast, complimentary wifi, parking and enjoy the indoor pool.

2. Travelodge by Wyndham, Barrie - 300 Bayfield St, Barrie, ON L4M 3B9

Approximately 13 mins from the conference venue. 10% discount off cost of room at booking. You must call to obtain group rate, booking online will not allow for group rate discount.
To receive the discount mention you are attending the FEB Central Conference (code: LP10)
To reserve a room, call: 705-722-4466 to obtain the group rate. Rooms can be booked until discounted rooms are full.

Includes a hot buffet breakfast, complimentary wifi, parking and enjoy the indoor pool.

3. Comfort Inn & Suites - 210 Essa Rd, Barrie, ON L4N 3L1

Approximately 10 mins from the conference venue.

Cost is $104/night for 2 people per room (additional adults are $10).

1 King or 2 Queen Beds accommodations are available. Includes Complimentary hot breakfast / Free Parking / Complimentary Wi-Fi.

You must call to obtain group rate, booking online will not allow for group rate discount. To receive the discount use the Group Name: FEB Central. Group #: DV17N2
Discount is available until Thursday March 26, 2026. There is a 7-day cancellation policy per reservation (by 4pm).
To reserve a room, call: 705-721-1122.

4. FairField by Marriott - 261 Essa Rd, Barrie, ON L4N 9C7

Approximately 8 mins from the conference venue.

King Bed - $169 plus tax per night. (must be booked before March 25). There is a 7-day cancellation policy or you will be charged for one night.

You can call to obtain group rate and receive the discount mention the dates and group code: FEBC. To reserve a room, call: 705-737-9999. Alternatively, you can book it online using this link. Rooms can be booked until discounted rooms are full.

Includes a hot buffet breakfast for 2 (additional guests $15/each), and one parking space (additional vehicles, if space is available, may incur extra charges).

5. Best Western PLUS - 35 Hart Drive, Barrie, ON L4N 5M3

Approximately 11 minutes from the conference venue.

Cost is $139/night for 2 people per room (additional adults are $15 / max. 4 per room).

1 King or 2 Queen Beds accommodations are available. Includes Complimentary hot breakfast / Free Parking / Complimentary Wi-Fi.

You must call to obtain group rate, booking online will not allow for group rate discount. To receive the discount use the Group Name: FEB Central. Group Code: 2E6VL3E2
Discount is available until Thursday March 26, 2026. There is a 7-day cancellation policy per reservation.
To reserve a room, call: 705-721-4848.

Full refund minus EventBrite fees will be given automatically via EventBrite requests up to 10 days before the start of the STRONGER Conference.

No refund will be given for cancellations 10 days or less before the start of the STRONGER Conference.

Info: Register in advance for the conference and bring your digital ticket (QR code) or printed ticket for the fastest check-in!

Info: Attendees are welcome to make use of the Prayer Room throughout the conference. This space is available for quiet solitude, self-guided prayer and reflection, or for gathering with one or two others for prayer.

Info: A conference favourite from once again Smoke & Timber - wood fire catering for only $25:
2 Meats & 2 Sides Party Package (you will choose):
Pulled Pork and/or Chopped Chicken Thighs
with
Street Corn Salad and/or Broccoli Salad
(regular price of this meal is $35 per person)

Advanced purchase required - don't miss out!

Info: Read about them here in schedule tabs. You choose your selections during the registration process.

Info: Read about them here in schedule tabs. You choose your selections during the registration process.

Info: Apologetics isn’t just for debaters, it’s for disciples. In this workshop, you’ll
learn how to build an “apologetics pipeline” inside your church using small
groups as the engine. We’ll cover how to introduce apologetics without
intimidating people, how to train leaders, how to choose topics that actually
matter, and how to turn doubts into discipleship moments. Expect practical
tools, sample formats, and a clear next-step plan your church can start using
immediately.

Info: Youth ministry is constantly changing, come join the FEB Youth team for a panel discussion on all things next gen and youth ministry.

Mike Racinsky, Tyler Legouff, Greg Barker, Eric Veen, and Tim Mudde will share insights, stories, and perspectives from diverse ministry contexts across the province. Submit your own question when you sign up for this elective, or simply come ready to be encouraged by what God is doing in and through youth ministry today.

Info: This workshop explores how the gospel advances when ordinary believers live as daily practitioners of Christ’s mission. Grounded in Acts 5:42, “And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they did not cease teaching and preaching that the Christ is Jesus,” the focus is on disciples who actively share the gospel
in the normal rhythms of life, allowing multiplication to take root through faithful obedience.
Bechara and the team will share practical insights from real ministry contexts, highlighting both the blessings and challenges of cultivating a culture where every believer participates in evangelism. Their teaching will emphasize that leaders and disciples must model the mission by personally living out what they
desire others to practice.
Participating leaders will learn how to mobilize believers into simple, reproducible patterns of witness, build environments where evangelism becomes normal, and engage partnerships that strengthen gospel expansion.

Info: Healthy congregational communication begins long before anything hits a bulletin, announcement, or platform. It starts with the way ministry leaders, staff, and volunteers communicate with one another. When internal communication is unclear, inconsistent, or siloed, the entire church feels it. Messages are confusing and mixed, there are last minute requests and friction between ministries.
This workshop provides a practical and biblically rooted framework for building a healthy internal communication culture that supports clarity, unity, and mission alignment. Leaders will learn how intentional communication systems can reduce overwhelm, strengthen relationships, and ensure that what the church communicates reflects the heart of the church.

Info: Sometimes, as partners in ministry, pastors’ wives can feel alone. We have a unique calling, serving in a role that can be rewarding, but also challenging. In this Q&A workshop, Jo Buck will host a panel of ministry wives who will share from their own experiences, and are willing to answer some of the questions we have as women married to men in ministry. Topics like raising children in the spotlight, dealing with personal struggles while serving, handling hurt in the church, being married to your pastor, and more. We want you to be encouraged and know you are not alone in this special role God has specifically called you to!

Info: Serving on a church board is a vital church leadership role, yet board members often find themselves in the middle of the action feeling unequipped with little training. This workshop will share Biblical principles for effective board leadership that you can put into practice right away. Whether you are seasoned board member or just getting started, this workshop will help you serve more fruitfully on the board.

Info: This workshop will examine the value of sabbaticals in proactively building long term sustainability. Best practices to be discussed include preparing yourself, your team, and your church to reap the benefits of a successful sabbatical.
Darryl will draw upon recent experiences from his own three-month sabbatical to provide practical insights and advice.

Info: How is it that at times our preaching and teaching seems to “land” and other times it feels like it didn’t?  In this workshop we will talk about the dynamics that must be considered to engage the mind, stir the heart, and  the initiate the will when we teach. This workshop is designed for those who are teaching and preaching in various settings and with consideration to the various audiences we address.

Info: On the Open Sea: the Drift into Secularism and the Power of God's Word.
This paper traces the rise of present-day secularism (as described by Charles Taylor), discusses some of its challenges to Christian witness/apologetics, and concludes with reflections from Romans on the potency of God's Word. Pastors should labour to be more attuned to the cultural shifts around us and pray for greater confidence in God's Word.

Info: Learn about proven training and resources that are producing fruit in worldview relevant evangelism and discipleship across Canada and around the world. You will come away with several tools to help your church make disciples, particularly among people with a non-Christian worldview.

Info: Organizing an order of service is a weekly challenge faced by every church and leader of worship. Should we utilize a random, shot-gun approach and simply throw in our favourite “les chansons du jour” or use a laser focus, with prayerful purpose? Come to this workshop for an overview of several methods of worship order creation, plus some tips and tricks for helping plan with biblical faithfulness and pastoral purpose.

Info: Succession sounds great, but does it work? It’s an idea that’s trending, but is it
something in my ministry I should be thinking about? Let’s hear from three of our
pastor’s, Rick Buck, Gary McNitt, and Dave Gray who have all had succession
experience. Bob Flemming will lead a panel discussion exploring the good, bad, and ugly regarding succession.

Info: How do we move from simply knowing Scripture to living it wisely in everyday life & ministry? This workshop explores the biblical foundations of wisdom & the implications for living it out in real-world situations. Led by Tom Haines of FEB Central, this session will examine how wisdom is defined, developed, and demonstrated throughout Scripture. Participants will engage with key biblical texts, reflect on the difference between knowledge and wisdom, and consider how biblical wisdom shapes decision-making, leadership, relationships, and spiritual formation. Whether you are a pastor, ministry leader, or committed follower of Christ, this workshop will help you: • Understand the biblical concept of wisdom • Recognize how wisdom is formed through Scripture, experience, & obedience • Apply biblical wisdom faithfully in personal life and ministry contexts
Come prepared to think deeply, reflect honestly, & hopefully leave better equipped to acquire & apply biblical wisdom for God's glory.

Info: Many churches assume multiplication is out of reach. Our story says otherwise. Discover how Bethel has planted new congregations through a unified family model, clear stage-based process, and an intersection of biblical foundations and practical strategy. Walk away with an inspired vision for bold next steps and a practical framework you can adapt—no matter your size or location—to begin preparing your church to multiply.

Info: Ashley D. van der Walt is the founder and lead apologist behind The Social Apologist, an initiative dedicated to equipping everyday Christians to share and defend the faith with clarity and confidence. He is also the founder of IXI Academy (Iron Sharpens Iron), which includes two apps designed to strengthen apologetics training and provide debate-ready resources through IXI Arena. Ashley is the author of Engage: Practical Apologetics for Small Groups and is currently completing a Master of Theology (MTh) with a focus on apologetics to Islam. He also serves as a Minister of Worship at Springvale Church, and is grateful to be husband to Eugenie and dad to three children

Info: Mike Racinsky serves as the Next Gen Catalyst for FEB Central, where he supports, equips, and encourages the next generation of church leaders in their ministry to children, youth, and families. With over 15 years of youth ministry experience, Mike brings a pastor’s heart, a collaborative spirit, and a deep commitment to biblically faithful, spirit lead, culturally aware next-generation ministry. He is a Heritage College & Seminary graduate and is passionate about helping leaders build ministries that are both theologically grounded and practically sustainable. Mike lives in Cambridge, Ontario with his wife Sara and their two children, Hope and Theo.

Info: Summerside Community Church is the church that Tyler grew up in, and it is the place where God first captured and called him to ministry. In 2014, Tyler graduated from Briercrest University with a Bachelor of Arts in Youth Ministry, where he focused on Biblical Studies, Youth Culture, and Adolescent Psychology and Counselling. Tyler recently graduated with a Masters of Theological Studies from Heritage College and Seminary.

Tyler and his wife Christy have been married since May 2017, and had their first daughter, Quinn, in 2022.

Tyler enjoys cooking, golfing, games of all varieties (board, lawn, video), photography, videography and graphic design, he knows way too much about superheroes and loves all things TV and movies.

Info: Tim married Ariel in 2018 and is the proud father of two gorgeous daughters, Melody and Madelyn. Tim is on staff at Grandview Church as the Associate Pastor of Youth & Discipleship. Tim finds so much joy in witnessing the transformative power of faith in the lives of students. He has a desire to see resilient families who demonstrate the grace of God in their everyday lives. Beyond his pastoral duties Tim loves spending time with family, DIY projects (with mixed results, but hey, it’s the journey that counts!), and cheering (with even worse results) for the Leafs and Jays. You will often find Tim biking, at the park with his family or relaxing in the backyard because life’s too short to stay indoors!

Info: Greg has been passionately serving in youth ministry for nearly a decade. He began his journey at Springvale Church in Stouffville, where he cultivated a strong foundation in mentoring and guiding young people in their faith. Recently, Greg transitioned to Faith Church in St. Thomas, where he is passionate about engaging students in the community. He holds a degree in Biblical Theology, which deepens his commitment to sharing the transformative power of the gospel with youth.

Info: Bechara, Roula, Robin and Jonathan Karkafi have served the Lord as a missionary family in the Middle East and North Africa and Canada since 2009. Bechara has been on staff with FEB Central New Canadian Church Planting for 7 years and now serves as FEB Central Church Planting Director. In 2017, Bechara began serving in a dual capacity with Fellowship International, where he serves as the FI Ambassador to the Arab world, leading the FI vision in the Middle East and North African areas. Bechara's vision is to see church-planting movements that are mobilizing the Gospel, making disciples, and building the Kingdom until every man, woman, and child belongs.

Info: Becky serves as the Creative Director at West Highland Baptist Church in Hamilton. With a background in psychology, visual communication, and organizational leadership, she oversees church-wide communications, digital strategy, creative direction, and guides ministry alignment. Becky is passionate about helping churches communicate with clarity and purpose so their messages reflect the heart of Christ and strengthens the mission of the local church.

Info: I have been a ministry wife and partner (to Rick) for over 35 years and love to spend time with and encourage other Pastor’s wives! My favourite titles are ‘Mom’ (to 2 kids and their spouses) and ‘Grandma’ (to 5 incredible gifts from God). Studying and teaching God’s Word, and spending quality time with people I love (all while drinking a really good cup of coffee) are my favourite things!

Info: Tom Haines serves as the Regional Director of The Fellowship of Evangelical Baptist Churches in Canada—Central Region (FEB Central) serving 300+ churches in Ontario & English-speaking Quebec. He has been a pastor, church planter and leader in the Fellowship for more than 3 decades. Prior to his current role, Tom served as Director of Church Planting & had the privilege of helping lay the groundwork for close to 100 church plants in the Fellowship & beyond. Tom is a visionary leader with a passion to see FEB Central continue to grow healthy, thriving leaders & churches that are Biblically sound, spirit led & multiplying by reaching the lost across Canada. He holds a Bachelor of Theology & a Master in Christian Leadership degree. Tom is married to Tammy & they have four married children & 10 grandchildren. Prior to ministry life Tom was a licensed automotive technician at a Ford dealership. On a day off you may find him deer hunting from a tree stand or walleye fishing on Lake Erie.

Info: Tim was born and raised in Toronto and trusted in the Lord at a young age. He completed a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Electrical Engineering at the University of Waterloo, Master of Divinity degree at Tyndale Seminary and Doctor of Ministry degree at Denver Seminary, where he wrote his doctoral thesis, Leadership in Church Revitalization.

Tim has served in small, medium and large churches in rural, suburban and urban settings. He has a passion to see churches grow in vitality with an outward focus on sharing the good news of Jesus. He currently serves as Church Vitality Director at FEB Central where he oversees church consultations, church revitalization and training, staff searches, finances, and the annual Stronger Conference.

Tim and his wife Carol are members at West Highland Church and they live in Hamilton with their three young-adult children.

Info: Darryl serves as the Executive Director at Bethel Baptist Church in Strathroy, Ontario. He is responsible for many of the operational leadership responsibilities in the church and carries ministry roles like finance, small groups, short term mission trip opportunities, and Alpha.
Darryl was blessed with a three-month sabbatical in the fall of 2025 that profoundly impacted his life.

Info: Steve Adams has served the Lord for over thirty years after having transitioned from operating his own business. He has experience in pastoring, denominational leadership, and leading para-church organizations. He has preached in a myriad of churches and audiences in the US and Canada for over 3 decades. For the last 6 years he has led Adams and Co. an organization working with churches in the areas of Pastoral and Staff Search and leadership consulting. He also works for FEB Central as a Church Vitality Catalyst.

Info: Dr.Glendon Thompson serves as senior pastor of Jarvis Street Baptist Church. He is also the president and a professor of biblical studies at Toronto Baptist Seminary and Bible College, and editor of The Gospel Witness magazine. Dr. Thompson is a regular conference speaker and lecturer.

Info: John was an ABWE missionary in Ukraine for over twenty years, serving as President of a Bible college and assisting and mentoring church planters. He then served as Vice President of Training & Resources for ABWE International, and since 2021 has been President of ABWE Canada. In partnership with FEB Central, his passion is to assist Canadian churches in achieving their Great Commission objectives both locally and globally.

Info: Randy worked as a church planting missionary in south Brazil for almost twenty years, and currently serves as the Overseas Director for ABWE's Good Soil Evangelism and Discipleship Ministries. He trains missionaries and national church workers around the world and oversees the translation projects of Good Soil resources, currently available in over 45 languages.

Info: Lee has been a worship pastor in Ontario for almost 28 years and is currently serving in this role at Emmanuel, Barrie. He also teaches as an adjunct at Heritage College, Cambridge. Lee is blessed with wife, Cheryl, three adult kids, and two grandsons. During the warmer months, when not at home or at Emmanuel, Lee can often be found sailing on Georgian Bay.

Info: Meet Bob: As the Director of Integration and Peacekeeping Bob facilitates new churches joining FEB and assists in mediation and conflict management. He also is involved in training, advising, and speaking in our churches. Previously (2010-2020) he served as Regional Director, is married to Rhonda and has two married daughters and three grandchildren.

Info: Rick served for 30 years in pastoral ministry roles in churches in the FEB Central region. He is now the Leadership Advancement Director for FEB Central which supports our churches and ministry leaders in over 300 churches in Ontario and English speaking Quebec. Rick and his wife Jo live just outside of Barrie, ON.

Info: Allan serves as Lead Pastor of Bethel Baptist Church in Strathroy, ON, where he and his wife raise their four children. He also oversees the Bethel Family of Churches, helping plant and support new congregations in surrounding communities. Allan is passionate about building a culture that blends visionary spiritual multiplication, with healthy and sustainable spiritual formation.

Info: Register in advance for the conference and bring your digital ticket (QR code) or printed ticket for the fastest check-in! You do not need to check in again if you already did so on Monday.

Info: Attendees are welcome to make use of the Prayer Room throughout the conference. This space is available for quiet solitude, self-guided prayer and reflection, or for gathering with one or two others for prayer.

Info: Box Lunches from Chick-fil-A! Each lunch includes either Chicken or Grilled Chicken with a cookie and either chips or upgrade to a side salad. Gluten Free option: Grilled Nuggets with a side salad. All lunches include a pop or a water.

Info: Read about them here in schedule tabs. You choose your selections during the registration process.

Info: Read about them here in schedule tabs. You choose your selections during the registration process.

Info: Choose your meat: Either Brisket or Salmon or Quarter Chicken (White or Dark).
All meals include: loaded bake potatoes, grilled vegetables, summer salad and a drink.

Our Stronger Conference favourite cater will be providing us with an incredible supper you won't want to miss. A time we hope you will enjoy good food and fellowship!

Info: Thanks for being with us! Safe Travels. We hope to see you at Stronger 2027!

Info: We will look at four practical keys to thriving as a solo pastor under the
pressures of life and ministry:
1. Know God’s Calling
2. Know Yourself
3. Know Your Church
4. Know Your Community

Info: Many women sense they should invest in other women but feel unsure, unqualified, or overwhelmed by the idea of mentoring. This encouraging and practical workshop will show you how simple and life-giving mentoring can be. You’ll discover an easy, relational way to walk with one to three women at a time, learn what to focus on and how to start, and how to help them step into mentoring others—so what you begin doesn’t end with you.

Info: Long before someone attends a service or hears a sermon, they’ve already formed impressions about your church. This workshop explores how websites, search results, and everyday digital touchpoints quietly communicate who you are, what to expect, and whether it’s worth showing up. Instead of trends or tech jargon, this session offers a clear, practical way to spot friction, confusion, or missed signals in your church’s digital front door—and make focused improvements that actually help people take a next step. Participants will leave with a simple audit framework and identify one specific digital barrier their church can clarify or improve within the next 30 days.

Info: Healthy systems enable people and ministries to flourish, while unhealthy systems create barriers to ministry in your church. This workshop will teach you how to implement healthy ministry systems using Biblical systems principles, modern systems theory and practical examples common to church ministry. Whether you are a pastor, ministry director, board member or lay leader, this workshop will inspire you to create the systems that strengthen your ministry impact.

Info: Benjamin Beddome (1718–1795) was an 18th-century Baptist pastor who ministered for over five decades in one local church. Though Beddome is unknown today, you may be familiar with some of his contemporaries like John Gill, Andrew Fuller, and William Carey. In his day, Beddome was well-known as an effective and useful preacher. In this workshop, we will consider the life of this Baptist pastor and the theological convictions that undergirded his preaching. As you hear about Beddome and his ministry, I trust that you will be sharpened in your understanding of the task of preaching and be motivated to give yourself more faithfully to the sacred desk. Of course, the lessons concerning preaching will have application to
other forms of Word ministry, such as teaching.

Info: This workshop will focus on guiding principles for leading a team of staff or lay leaders, as well as address some of the practical tools and strategies needed to nurture healthy team function.
Content of this workshop has a fairly broad application. All staff and lay leaders who are responsibly for leading others in the fulfillment of mission and vision. Especially relevant to staff leaders.
A workshop for all churches who are in the process of building teams, will find this helpful.

Info: This workshop explores how to cultivate biblically grounded disciples who multiply across generations, reflecting the vision of Spirit-filled, thriving, reproducing churches. Rooted in Acts 19:20, “So the word of the Lord continued to increase and prevail mightily,” the focus is on forming disciple-making cultures shaped by Scripture, obedience, and mission.
Kelvin will draw from his experience equipping churches to develop rhythms,
relationships, and practices that intentionally pass faith from one generation to the next. His insights will help leaders understand how discipleship moves beyond programs to become a lifestyle that produces spiritual sons and daughters and future disciple-makers.
Participating leaders will learn how to mobilize believers to follow Jesus deeply, teach others faithfully, and multiply generationally. As Matt Chandler reminds us, “The goal of the Christian life is not behaviour modification but heart transformation.”

Info: Artificial Intelligence is rapidly reshaping how we live, think, and engage. In this breakout, we’ll explore how AI can be a powerful tool for ministry: from content creation to communication and discipleship. But we’ll also confront the challenges — from ethical concerns to the ways AI can distort truth, identity, and worldview. Join us for a practical and thought-provoking session that equips you to engage AI with discernment, use it with purpose, and lead others toward clarity in an increasingly complex digital world.* *Written with the help of AI

Info: Description coming soon ...

Info: The Heart of Revitalization: examining the heart of the problem, the Holy Spirit power solution, and Jesus’ clear goal for His Church… and some tools for the transformation.

Info: Reignite your church's outreach and develop a genuine heart for your community. This workshop delivers practical principles and actionable strategies to build a church that naturally reaches beyond its walls.
Action Step - To prioritize and plan spiritual C.P.R. and understand the strategy of Jesus in your church

Info: Ensuring kids ministry runs smoothly week in and week out is no small task. From onboarding volunteers, creating schedules, maintaining policies and procedures,
organizing curriculum, and keeping your Goldfish supply topped up, there’s a lot to be done behind the scenes.This breakout will cover some of the organizational structures you can put in place to keep things running smoothly.
Action Step: Review the organizational structure of the kids ministry programs at your church.

Info: This workshop equips leaders—from single-pastor churches to multi-staff teams—with practical, efficient administrative systems rooted in the Acts 6 model of ministry support. We will focus on the 3 Pillars of clarity, consistency, and communication across finance, technology, and compliance (especially Canadian CRA/Safe Church requirements). Learn how efficient governance and smart delegation free up pastors and staff from the "busy work" to focus on shepherding and outreach.
Your Action Step: Identify ONE administrative task you can successfully delegate or automate this week, thereby reclaiming ministry time.

Info: Leadership development rarely feels urgent—until it becomes unavoidable. Between sermons, pastoral care, budgets, and crises, investing in future leaders can slip to the bottom of the list. Yet churches do not drift toward health by accident. Without a clear pathway to identify, form, and release leaders, we risk overloading a few, burning out the willing, and leaving the next generation unprepared. After five years, a church has the leadership team it has—or hasn’t—intentionally developed.
This workshop equips church leaders to build a sustainable leadership pipeline. You will gain practical tools to establish rhythms of coaching and discipleship and learn how to cultivate leaders at every level, from small group leaders to elders. Healthy churches require healthy leaders—formed prayerfully, intentionally, and over time, in community. Come ready to refocus and take your next step toward a culture where leaders are strengthened, trained, and multiplied.

Info: Jack Flietstra has served as a District Shepherd with FEB Central since September 2017. He is married to Dedee, and together they have five children and fourteen grandchildren. Jack has ministered in several FEB churches, beginning at Wilmer Heights Baptist in Scarborough and later at Calvary Baptist in Burlington, where he served as a youth pastor.
His first solo pastorate was in Cochrane, Ontario (1988–1995), where the church grew from about fifty to over ninety before economic decline reduced the congregation. From 1995 to 2021, Jack pastored Lansing Avenue Baptist in Sudbury, guiding the church from a solo pastorate to a multi-pastoral ministry.
Jack currently serves at Grace Baptist in Alliston, a congregation of approximately seventy in a growing community. He is also the author of Freeing Your Pastor to Serve with Joy and God of Pain.

Info: Tracey Steffens is the Director of Life Groups at Emmanuel Barrie. After completing a Bachelor of Education, she began her career as a school teacher before getting her MABS at Dallas Theological Seminary. Passionate about walking alongside women, Tracey has spent the past several years mentoring young women, helping them grow in faith, leadership, and purpose—and encouraging them to mentor others in turn.

Info: Lucas Roberts is the founder of Onset Creative, where he builds websites and digital tools for churches and organizations. He also serves as the Next Gen and Weekend Experience Director at Brookside Baptist Church in Ottawa.

Info: Tim was born and raised in Toronto and trusted in the Lord at a young age. He completed a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Electrical Engineering at the University of Waterloo, Master of Divinity degree at Tyndale Seminary and Doctor of Ministry degree at Denver Seminary, where he wrote his doctoral thesis, Leadership in Church Revitalization.

Tim has served in small, medium and large churches in rural, suburban and urban settings. He has a passion to see churches grow in vitality with an outward focus on sharing the good news of Jesus. He currently serves as Church Vitality Director at FEB Central where he oversees church consultations, church revitalization and training, staff searches, finances, and the annual Stronger Conference.

Tim and his wife Carol are members at West Highland Church and they live in Hamilton with their three young-adult children.

Info: Yuta Seki is the Senior Pastor of Maple Avenue Baptist Church in Georgetown, Ontario. He was born in Tokyo, Japan, and grew up in western Canada. At the age of 17, the Lord saved him through the youth group of a local church in his hometown. Yuta earned an MDiv from The Master’s Seminary and a DEdMin from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. His doctoral thesis was focused on the pastoral theology of Benjamin Beddome, who was an 18th-century English Particular Baptist pastor. Yuta is married to Alyssa, and they have four children.

Info: Rick served for 30 years in pastoral ministry roles in churches in the FEB Central region. He is now the Leadership Advancement Director for FEB Central which supports our churches and ministry leaders in over 300 churches in Ontario and English speaking Quebec. Rick and his wife Jo live just outside of Barrie, ON.

Info: It has been a privilege to give leadership to our Family and Community Life ministries since 2008. On September 17, 2023 the Lord affirmed His next ministry assignment for me and I was honoured to become the 16th Lead Pastor in Calvary’s history. My passions are to help followers of Christ mature as disciples and to see Jesus introduced to those who are lost. I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in Intercultural Religious Studies from Trinity Western University and a Master of Theological Studies from Heritage Theological Seminary. When I am not at work I love spending time with my family. I am married to Jen and we have been blessed with four children and one daughter in law, Jason and Reegan, Darrell, Natalie and April. Together we enjoy outdoor activities that include hunting, fishing and making maple syrup. Growing up as an MK in Africa we also enjoy trying different cultural foods, with Ethiopian being our favourite.

Info: Summerside Community Church is the church that Tyler grew up in, and it is the place where God first captured and called him to ministry. In 2014, Tyler graduated from Briercrest University with a Bachelor of Arts in Youth Ministry, where he focused on Biblical Studies, Youth Culture, and Adolescent Psychology and Counselling. Tyler recently graduated with a Masters of Theological Studies from Heritage College and Seminary.

Tyler and his wife Christy have been married since May 2017, and had their first daughter, Quinn, in 2022.

Tyler enjoys cooking, golfing, games of all varieties (board, lawn, video), photography, videography and graphic design, he knows way too much about superheroes and loves all things TV and movies.

Info: Dustin Boreland currently serves at Springvale Church in Stouffville, Ontario and is completing his Doctorate of Practical Theology at McMaster Divinity College. After several years in Montreal where he planted and revitalized a church, Dustin and his family returned to Ontario in 2022. Before moving to Montreal, Dustin and his wife Racquel served as foster parents to more than 15 teenage boys and worked as church planters. Dustin is passionate about connecting the Gospel to our culture, equipping the local church for mission, and can be found overindulging on hip hop and spicy chicken sandwiches.

Info: Husband of Summer, Father of 4, Crazy for the Kingdom and Pastor of Church in the River. God started to prepare Jon for the ministry at Liberty University, where he played some hockey while earning a BS in Religion and a MAR in Apologetics and Theology. God has since refined Jon and Summer on a beautiful journey of ministry with 5 full-time ministry risks of faith since 2008 (being a youth, discipleship and lead pastor along the way). In Port Lambton, where they now serve, their revitalized church family and their own growing family have been thriving in a way that gives Glory to God Alone!

Info: Robin has led five churches through transformation while overseeing two major building projects. Through prayer, strategic outreach, and leadership development, he has witnessed God's work in revitalizing these church ministries. His approach follows Jesus' model or strategy for healthy church transformation and Nehemiah's principles for rebuilding among the ruins. As one of the former directors of the National Fellowship team, Robin has coached leaders, consulted churches, and championed church planting, church health, and leadership development in our regions. Robin and Gwen have five children and 8 grandchildren. For the last ten years, Robin and Gwen have been serving at Oxford Baptist Church in Woodstock Ontario.

Info: After serving as a volunteer for many years, Jenn now serves on staff at Hespeler Baptist Church as the Kids Ministry Director, organizing and implementing programs for birth to Grade 5 students. She lives in Cambridge with her husband, two kids, and the world’s greatest dog.

Info: Randy and Mary-Jane are married with 4 children and love spending time with their 9 grandchildren. With a degree in Accounting finance followed by an MDiv, Randy's ministry path has included managing Christian camps, youth ministry and church pastoring. For the past 10 years, Randy has been serving as the Children's Pastor and Executive Pastor at Emmanuel in Barrie.

Info: Dwayne Cline served as the Lead Pastor for James North Baptist Church, in downtown Hamilton, for 28 years. He is the part-time interim Executive Director for TGC Canada as well as the board chair for City to City Canada. Dwayne and Aimee have been blessed with four children. He is currently assisting organizations think through matters of governance, strategic planning, team building and fundraising.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Emmanuel Baptist Church, Barrie, Canada

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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