Attending church conferences is an invaluable opportunity for church staff members to gain insights, network with peers, and explore innovative strategies to enhance their ministries. These events bring together some of the brightest minds in church leadership, providing attendees with the chance to hear from experienced pastors, industry experts, and fellow church leaders. Whether you’re looking for fresh ideas in leadership, technology, communications, or strategic planning, these conferences offer an unparalleled opportunity to learn from the best.
Additionally, conferences create space for spiritual renewal and vision casting, helping your team return home inspired and better equipped to serve your congregation. Below is a curated list of notable conferences scheduled for this year, complete with dates, locations, costs, and the unique benefits each offers.
Dates: February 25–27, 2025
Location: Dallas, TX
Registration Cost: $799
Website: XPastor Seminar
The XPastor Seminar is tailored for executive pastors and senior church leaders, focusing on leadership development, church management, and strategic planning. The unique format combines nationally-known authors, the most current thinking in church leadership and pastors from cutting-edge churches. No one has the mix of thought and practice that XPastor offers.
Dates: March 24–27, 2025
Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
Cost: $750/member
Website: XP Mega Metro
XP Mega Metro is geared towards executive pastors from large churches, offering sessions with world-renowned leadership experts. The conference emphasizes community building, providing opportunities to connect with peers nationwide. Additional activities include a golf outing and a night of worship, enhancing both professional and personal growth.
Dates: March 26–28, 2025
Location: Irving, Texas
Cost: $1,795
(includes event, meals, lodging, and experiences)
Website: LeadingSmart Texas Gathering
Designed as an intimate gathering for executive pastors, this event combines TED Talk-style presentations with roundtable discussions. Topics are customized to attendees’ needs, covering areas such as building a healthy church culture, staff management, budgeting, and personal well-being. The limited attendance fosters deep connections and personalized learning.
Dates: May 1-2, 2025
Location: Roseville, CA
Cost: $249
Website: Thrive Conference
Thrive Conference aims to encourage and equip church, business, and ministry leaders through world-class speakers like John Maxwell, Carey Nieuwhof, and many more! The event includes various sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to inspire and prepare leaders to make a significant impact in their communities.
Dates: July 8–11, 2025
Location: Statesboro, Georgia
Cost: $350/member
Website: MMCA Conference
For over 40 years, the MMCA Conference has served professionals in media, communications, and production ministry. It offers a platform for community building and encouragement, featuring sessions that address the unique challenges and opportunities in church media and communications.
Dates: September 8-10, 2025
Location: Jacksonville Beach, Florida
Cost: $249(Limited Early Bird Tickets)
$299 (Standard Ticket)
Website: Church Leaders Summit
The Church Leaders Summit is designed to encourage you in your calling, equip you for ministry, and strengthen your team with renewed energy. Created for leaders and their teams in mind, come experience powerful worship, dynamic teaching and hands-on ministry labs alongside Pastor Joby Martin, Matt Chandler, Lysa TerKeurst and Vance Pitman.
Dates: September 23-25, 2025
Location: Louisville, KY
Cost: $329 – $399 (The earlier you register, the bigger your discount)
Website: Spire Conference
SpireConference is an incredible leadership connection conference focused on encouraging and equipping leaders who inspire a movement of healthy growing churches. This event is designed specifically for you and your staff and team. It’s a time to get away from the weekly routine, spend time being poured into, reflect on the past, and dream about the future of the Church, all while building connection and community with other Pastors and Leaders.
Dates: October 2–4, 2025
Location: Nashville, Tennessee
Cost: $199 (+ $10 fee)
Website: THINQ Summit
The THINQ Summit brings together thought leaders to discuss cultural trends, leadership, and innovation within the church context. It features keynote speakers, panel discussions, and breakout sessions aimed at equipping church leaders to think critically and engage effectively with contemporary issues.
Dates: October 5–7, 2025
Location: Crossroads Church, Cincinnati, Ohio
Cost: $99 (early bird); $175 after September 1
Website: Church IT Network National Conference
This conference is dedicated to IT professionals, ChMS administrators, and production staff within churches. It provides technical sessions, strategic discussions, and leadership content relevant to large church operations. Attendees can network with peers and explore partnerships with technology providers.
Dates: October 5–7, 2025
Location: Crossroads Church, Cincinnati, Ohio
Cost: $99 (early bird); $175 after September 1
Website: Church IT Network National Conference
This conference is dedicated to IT professionals, ChMS administrators, and production staff within churches. It provides technical sessions, strategic discussions, and leadership content relevant to large church operations. Attendees can network with peers and explore partnerships with technology providers.
Dates: November 19-22, 2025
Location: Atlanta, GA
Cost: $50
Website: ICOM
The International Conference on Missions (ICOM) is a global gathering of church leaders, missionaries, and ministry workers focused on advancing the Gospel worldwide. Attendees will hear from inspiring speakers, engage in meaningful networking, and explore new strategies for effective mission work.
Investing in professional and spiritual development through church conferences is essential for church staff members. These events provide invaluable opportunities to connect with other leaders, learn new strategies, and gain fresh perspectives on church management, leadership, and ministry effectiveness.
Whether you are an executive pastor, IT professional, media director, or ministry leader, attending a conference can enhance your skills and help your church thrive. Prioritizing ongoing learning and networking ensures that your team remains effective in leading and serving your congregation well into the future.
Pull open your calendar and invest some time this year in filling your cup!
