Foursquare Connection 2012 will be meeting in Phoenix from May 28–31. This annual gathering of The Foursquare Church is a chance to connect with others and with God, and to recharge your life. This year’s theme is “Speak—Reclaim Our Voice,” and it’s sure to be a powerful few days.
As you prepare to bring your team to Connection 2012, we’ve got a few last-minute reminders for you. There are a lot of exciting new events and opportunities this year—you don’t want to miss out!
Network With Other Leaders
Senior pastors and key leaders will have the chance to connect with other Foursquare pastors from around the country during special Learning and Connection Tracks. This focused time of networking and conversation will be a good chance to learn from one another. Leaders will be placed into groups based on church size to foster discussion and practical idea sharing.
Get Social
Share your Connection experience by posting to Twitter with the hashtag #connection12, or by checking out the Foursquare Facebook fan page. You can also check out photos during and after Foursquare Connection 2012 on foursquare.org.
Session for Worship Leaders
There’s a special track for worship leaders this year with the opportunity to submit a song for feedback from the group (deadline is May 15). Special guest Matt Redman will also share with Foursquare worship leaders and answer questions. Get info on how to submit your tune upon registration for the workshop.
How to Volunteer
You can still volunteer and be a part of the team that makes Connection happen. Not only will attendees appreciate your help, but volunteers have the opportunity to get their registration fees waived. Sign up online to join our volunteer team.
Administrative Track
This year’s administrative track will offer parallel sessions for executive pastors and church administrators. Topics covered will include delegation, conflict and social media.
Local Phoenix Residents
Phoenix area residents are welcome to show up on site to attend the Connection evening sessions at no charge. You’ll need a valid ID, and you can check in at the guest services desk in the North Building, 300 level of the Phoenix Convention Center, at the registration area.
The Future of Foursquare
Gateway District Supervisor Sam Rockwell and Life Pacific College Adjunct Professor David Moore will lead a learning track discussing the past, present and future of The Foursquare Church along with other Foursquare leaders and scholars. It’s an opportunity to address the question of how we preserve our uniqueness and identity in the face of the changing landscape of global Christianity.
Connection Center
With great food, ample seating and live music, the all-new Connection Center is the place to be. You can also check out the resource marketplace and play a game of ping pong. It’s the ideal spot to connect with new friends, reconnect with old ones, and maybe even win one of the special prize giveaways. And yes, it’s even open after each evening session.
Support Our Sponsors
While you’re at the Connection Center, be sure to check out our sponsors, including Life Pacific College, Foursquare Financial Solutions, The King’s University, Israel Ministry of Tourism, Oodles World LLC, Operation Solid Lives—Intense Discipleship Program, Foursquare Ignite and Operation Christmas Child.
Mentoring Young Leaders
Special evening sessions have been scheduled outside the general session times for young leaders ages 18-35. Highly respected Foursquare ministers will share their hearts and pour into emerging leaders. A question-and-answer session will follow, encouraging growth and mutual learning for everyone involved.
Programs for Kids and Youth
With an increased number of younger Foursquare leaders attending this year, Connection is now offering programs for kids and young people ages 15 months through 18 years. This special NextGen Connections Program is an option for parents who pre-register their children at $30 per child—a great deal for an entire week of spiritual nourishment and inspiritation. This isn’t babysitting; kids and students can look forward to special programs that will challenge and inspire.
Reaching the Next Generation
NextGen leaders will examine why the next generation is leaving the church, with author David Kinnaman, president of The Barna Group. Then breakout discussions will be organized for ministry leaders based on church size.
Business and Bylaws
Don’t forget about the business agenda for Connection. Read up on the proposed bylaw amendments and the Cabinet 2012 discussions so you’re ready to vote.
Can’t Make It?
If you can’t make it to Connection 2012, you can always watch online. Get the schedule here.
Need More Info?
Visit the Foursquare Connection 2012 website to register and get more details.
By: Kevin D. Hendricks, a freelance writer in St. Paul, Minn.