Women's Leadership Forum
Digital access available through November 13, 2022
GET EQUIPPED TO CARRY OUT YOUR CALLING
Let’s face it: the call to leadership can be a challenge. Whether you’re leading in the church or the workplace, as a volunteer or as a staff member, at Forum Virtual you’ll gain skills and strategies to grow as a leader wherever God has planted you. After more than a dozen hours of training with real-life application from seasoned leaders, you’ll feel equipped and encouraged to continue walking boldly into God’s call for your life.
2021 THEME: CONFIDENT
The person who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is indeed in the Lord, is blessed. Jeremiah 17:7
Unshakeable confidence, bold courage, and assured wisdom—these are all attributes we want to describe our leadership. The world tells us to find these things within ourselves, but we know the Truth: real confidence can only be found in the Lord. At Forum Virtual, you’ll learn how to root your leadership in the unchangeable character of Christ.
At Forum Virtual you will:
- Gain spiritual refreshment sitting under the teaching of of today’s top ministry leaders and authors
- Refocus your heart by worshipping virtually alongside hundreds of women who are in the trenches of leadership along with you
- Learn a wide variety of leadership skills and strategies through more than 20 personalized breakout sessions led by experienced leaders
2021 PLATFORM SPEAKERS
With Forum Virtual, you’ll get access to all six platform sessions from respected teachers, authors, and leaders.
Kelly Minter
Author, speaker, worship leader, songwriter, and musician
Kristi McLelland
Founder and Director of New Lens Biblical Studies
Speaker, Teacher, and Professor at Williamson College
Kelly King
Manager of Magazines/Devotional Publishing and Women's Ministry Training at Lifeway Christian Resources
Carey Nieuwhof
Founding Pastor of Connexus Church
Host of The Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast
Elizabeth Woodson
Institute Classes and Curriculum Director at The Village Church
Tara Leigh Cobble
Host of The Bible Recap Podcast and The God Shot radio show
Lauren Chandler
Worship leader
Whitney Capps
Event Emcee
2021 BREAKOUT SESSIONS
With Forum Virtual, you'll get live stream video access to 5 breakout sessions, plus on-demand access to audio versions of all breakout sessions after the live event is over.
Ministry Training
It's Not Just You: Sexual Discipleship for Christian Women | Ashley Chesnut
As we encounter sexual acts that aren’t explicitly mentioned in Scripture, how do we know they’re sin? Why is God worth following when His commands about sexuality go against what I desire? Together, we’ll discuss six aspects of God’s design for sex, how to know whether a sexual act is sin, and how to disciple someone in the area of sexuality.
The Wait After the Call & How to Abound in that Call | Jessie Seneca
Have you felt God calling you into a leadership role? Now what? Maybe you felt the call many years ago and it has not come to fruition yet and you find yourself in the waiting game or you may be in the throes of that very calling. No matter where you find yourself, together we will unpack your call to a Person, a Purpose, a Passion, and a People, encouraging you to walk with intentionality before God and your team—Always abounding in the work of the Lord.” We will discuss the success of ministry and how to fulfill God’s purpose for your lives, the difference between being called-in and called-out of ministry, lessons learned in the waiting room, and what it will take to have an I-will-finish-this-task mentality.
Counterfeit Comforts: Looking For Relief in All the Wrong Places | Melissa Spoelstra
Leadership can sometimes leave us weary - even on the other side of ministry highs. The prophet Isaiah warned God's people to exercise caution concerning where they looked for comfort to ease life's difficulties. When tasks overwhelm us and people criticize our hard work, it can be tempting to escape with TV and ice cream. As leaders we can heed Isaiah's call to receive comfort from God rather than counterfeits.
Develop Any Disciple: A 5-Step Discipleship Method that Works! | Ashley Marivittori Gorman
We all agree that we should be making disciples—the real question is how? What does it look like in the busy and the bustle of daily life to develop another woman in the faith, deeply discipling her to look more like Christ and walk with Him no matter what? Whether it's a casual friendship, a one-on-one mentorship, or a gal in your small group the Lord has put in your heart, in this 5-step discipleship method, Ashley Marivittori Gorman will show you how to develop any disciple in key areas of their Christian journey.
Anatomy of a Miracle: The Jaw-Dropping Discovery of Divine Microsomal Redemption On Every Page of Holy Writ! | Lisa Harper
When reading God’s Word it sometimes appears He went through a personality change—from a uni-browed librarian enforcing the rules in the Old Testament to a gentle carpenter hugging lepers in the New. Thankfully, in this breakout session, Lisa Harper uses her signature wit, theological acumen and captivating storytelling to explain how our Creator Redeemer’s unconditional love is woven throughout Scripture – even in the often overlooked and misunderstood passages. So bring your darling Forum self to this session for some engaging exegesis tips, as well as to rediscover that you’ve always been the object of His affection!
Developing a Biblical Perspective of Women | Alicia Wong
Have you wondered what the debate between complementarians and egalitarians is all about? In this session, we will not only look at those two perspectives, but also delve into what that means and what that looks like as we think about ministry to women. The focus will be on developing a biblical perspective of women by discussing key biblical passages and examining the lives of the women in the Bible.
Ministry Considerations for a "Post" Pandemic World | Brenda Croston
As we emerge from an unexpected season of worldwide sickness, what should we do next? What should our ministries to women look like? Do we have answers, solutions, or even the right methods to minister to the aftermath of COVID-19? Certainly, no one has all the answers as this time has been one of trial and error. However, we can look at current data and the way we have ministered in the past to develop a post pandemic ministry that will matter! Join us.
Pivot!: 4 Things That Changed My Approach to Ministry | Liz Steckel
As leaders, we are called to recognize and grow the strengths of the individuals entrusted to us. It's one of the highest honors we hold as servant leaders. But what happens when ministry curveballs are thrown, and we are called to pivot? In this breakout, we will unpack 4 key moments that forever changed my approach to ministry and how they just might impact yours.
Reading Scripture Faithfully and Theologically | Mary Wiley
How do we read Scripture with an eye to the overarching truths it is teaching? As women who are seeking to follow hard after Christ, we want to become faithful students of His Word and rightly understand His instruction for what to believe and how to live, but sometimes it's far easier said than done. Let's dive into how we can approach the text with wisdom and humility with an eye toward genre, audience, occasion, authorial intent, and the grand narrative of Scripture, allowing the Holy Spirit to inform our reading.
Personal Equipping
Practicing the Presence of God | Kandi Gallaty
In our Christian journey we don't only want to survive but to thrive! The secret to thriving is abiding in Christ. This session will discuss practical ways on how to continually abide and practice the presence of God daily.
Sabbath Rest: What is it and how do I get it? | Denise O'Donoghue
In Mark 2:27-28 we read, “And He said to them, ‘The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath. Therefore the Son of Man is also Lord of the Sabbath.” If the Sabbath was made for us, what does that mean? How do we receive and use this gift? In this breakout we will explore what Sabbath rest means for us in the 21st century and how to realize its benefits.
Burnout, Brokenness, and the Beauty of Grace: Truths for the Well-Watered Woman | Gretchen Saffles
Have you ever wanted to hide your brokenness from others so much that it kept you from experiencing true life in Christ? You are not alone. Ever since the Garden of Eden, humans have hidden behind brokenness. Jesus came to set us free, to break through our brokenness through being broken for us on the cross. Breakdowns often lead to breakthroughs which God uses to break apart the lies and strongholds gripping us. We weren’t made to walk alone. But first, we must be willing to walk broken, knowing Jesus is with us, loving us every step of the way.
The Everyday Gospel: Learning How To Apply the Gospel to Your Everyday Life | Elizabeth Woodson
While the gospel is the foundation of our faith, sometimes it's hard to connect it to the ordinary moments of our lives. As a result, we struggle to understand how the good news of our salvation affects us at home, work, and in our relationships. In this session, we will unpack the deep truths of the gospel, learning how to communicate the change and transformation it brings to every area of life.
Recognizing God’s Nudges and Leaping Out on Faith | Nicole Staples
Change can be challenging. Moving forward without answers or a complete road map requires faith. But beautiful things happen when you know you, know the God in you, and choose to obey.
The Integrated Life: A Well-Rounded Approach to Ministry, Leadership, and Living | Ashlyn Portero
We tend to organize our lives by our various identities: ministry leader, friend, mother, wife, church member, etc. Then, we spend a lot of time trying to balance each of these identities, as if we have multiple selves that must coexist. Yet conversations about finding balance and "doing it all" are endless and exhausting. What if God has actually ordained it so that every part of our lives is meant to come together under the lordship of Jesus, to shape us into His image? And what if they all find common ground within the local church? Our work, hobbies, family life, friendships, intellectual interests, and even our sufferings and sorrows are all meaningful for our own growth as leaders and women of God. This breakout seeks to dig deeper into a way of living that seeks to integrate, rather than separate, all the parts of our lives. Here, we find fullness and flourishing as complex people who care less about "having it all" and more about living the lives God has chosen for us, for his glory and for the good of others.
Ours. Others. God's! (Ministry Wive’s Breakout) | Diane Nix
What is a woman to do? We surrender to the call of God in our lives. We do so with an expectancy and hope of things to come. We train. We Pray. We plan. We dream. We are obedient. There are times, days, hours, and even events when our lives, as obedient as we have lived, don’t turn out as we believe or thought they should’ve. What we believe/think about our God will, in those times, either move us closer to Him or send us on a journey of great despair. Through Biblical and practical application, join in a frank discussion as we unpack a conversation concerning our expectations and what to do with them!
General Leadership
Leading With Multicultural Lenses | Y Bonesteele
The global world is more local than ever. There is an opportunity to reach the nations in your own backyard. Do you have a desire for more diversity in your ministry? Do you have a multicultural network and want to lead and serve them better? Learn biblical and practical whys and hows on leading with multicultural lenses.
Leading and Grieving: When Leadership Requires Us to Lead Through Our Own Pain | Paige Clayton Greene
The past year and a half have held so much tragedy, turmoil, and heaviness in our world. During that time, the normal rhythms of life and death continue. Whatever happens around us, leaders are still expected to lead and even ramp up to face the ever-increasing challenges around us. But we are not robots! Leaders also need soul care as they carry their own burdens and those of others. This session will provide helpful Ideas and encouragement from a counseling perspective for weary leaders.
Leading through Change: Lessons from a Second Chair Leader | Terri Stovall
When a ministry or organization goes through change and transition, leading from the second chair can be especially challenging. This session addresses those challenges and gives practical insight to help the leader thrive, not just survive, through transition.
The Unexpected Leader: Recognizing the Leader You Have Been Created to Be | Missie Branch
Looking around and comparing ourselves to other leaders may convince you that where you are or what you have now is inadequate for God to use. This makes it easy to overlook the plans that He has and allows us to forget that He is the one who crafts us for great works. In this breakout we will discuss necessary tools for effective leadership and the ways that God is able to make use of our unique experiences, equip us, and grow us towards a rich and edifying leadership journey.
Our Ultimate Drive: The Role of Ambition in a Leader's Life | Amy Whitfield
Ambition is something that many of us have, but are unsure whether we should cultivate it or kill it. So why is it in us? As Christians, how do we look at it? Is it part of our sin nature, or part of how God designed His people to be? Can we see it as a virtue, or is it an idol to be destroyed? This session will consider the roots of ambition and how we can pursue our callings toward the right goals.
Not in Full-Time Ministry? How Your Secular Work Glorifies God | Courtney Moore
Culture often promotes the idea that there is a great divide between the secular and the sacred, but all work that is done unto the Lord can be considered God-honoring and glorifying to Him. If you’re a woman whom God has called to serve in a space that is not considered a typical ministry setting, come and learn how your work, though “secular,” can make an eternal difference. Gain fresh vision for how your work can become worship.
Aspire to Lead | Donna Paulk
Are you a leader who aspires to use your gifts and serve your church, but struggling to find ways to officially serve on your church staff? This session will help you gain clarity by looking at God's Word, church traditions, and interpretations of how women can fulfill roles in ministry.
Perseverance in Leadership | Panel Discussion
We tend to want God to make leadership and ministry easy, convenient, comfortable, and problem-free. Yet, God never promised perfect circumstances. In this panel learn more about the staying power, patient endurance, and steadfastness that will sustain and strengthen you to keep serving no matter what you face or how you feel.
Young Leaders Only | Panel Discussion
Younger leaders have a variety of opportunities to lead. Listen to a panel discuss their experiences and ask questions to strengthen your confidence to lead no matter your age.
2021 Women's Leadership Forum Virtual
Registration Information
What Registration Includes
- On-demand access to all teaching and breakout sessions until November 13, 2022
- Video access to five breakout sessions during the live stream event
- Audio access for 60 days to all breakout sessions after the live stream event finishes
- Cancellation Policy
All purchases are non-transferable & non-refundable. You may not transfer the cost of the simulcast to another simulcast or event and all purchases are final. View Lifeway Simulcast Terms and Conditions.
FAQs
Digital On-Demand
Is worship included in digital on-demand?
Worship is not included in the digital pass, but you will have access to main sessions and breakout sessions.
How long does access to digital on-demand last?
It will last for one year. Experience this content as much as you'd like until November 13, 2022.
Are all speakers included in digital on-demand?
Most platform and breakout speakers will be included in the digital pass. If a speaker is not included due to a contractual agreement, we will replace it with other training sessions.
When will digital on-demand be available?
You will be able to access the on-demand content on digitalpass.lifeway.com on Wednesday, November 17.
Viewing
What do I need to stream the event?
Any streaming device will work. Just make sure you have a strong internet connection!
Can I view the event on multiple devices?
Yes. You can view the event on any device that can access the Internet. You can also view via our app on Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire Stick.
How do I access the event?
Once you register, you should receive a confirmation email from
lifewayorderinfo@lifeway.com with a receipt of your purchase. You will also receive another email from digitalpasssupport@lifeway.com with information on how to access your simulcast. If you do not receive these emails, please check your spam folder. See all that we have available for you at digitalpass.lifeway.com with the same user ID and password used to register for the simulcast.
Registration
What is included with my registration?
- On-demand access to all teaching and breakout sessions until November 13, 2022
- Video access to five breakout sessions during the live stream event
- Audio access for 60 days to all breakout sessions after the live stream event finishes
- Cancellation Policy
What is the cancellation policy?
All purchases are non-transferable and non-refundable. You may not transfer the cost of the simulcast to another simulcast or event and all purchases are final.
I received a special discount for registering a young leader for the live event. If my young leader would like to register for the virtual event, will she receive the same discount?
We will not be offering any special discounts for 2021 Lifeway Women’s Leadership Forum Virtual.
DOWNLOAD CONVERSATION CARDS
Download a printable version of the conversation cards you received at Women's Forum 2021. We can't wait to see how you use this tool with your team and the women you serve!