Iowa Disaster Relief Training – May 31st
2025-05-31 09:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | Cornerstone Community Church, 120 Northwestern AVE, Chariton, IA, 50049, United States
Iowa Disaster Relief Training
Interested in serving with Iowa Disaster Relief? BCI church members are invited to join our Disaster Relief training event in Chariton.
– Date: Saturday, May 31st – Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm – Host: Cornerstone Community Church • Chariton

We are excited about our upcoming trainings on Saturday, May 31st that will be hosted by Cornerstone Community Church in Chariton. This is for disaster relief training for new or returning volunteers. Register now and get equipped to serve!

Register Now

LOCATION:
Cornerstone Community Church120 Northwestern Ave.Chariton, IA 50049

SCHEDULE:

9:00am – Welcome & Announcements
9:15am – DR 101
10:15am – Break
10:30am – Training Session 1: Mass Feeding OR Flood Recovery
12:30pm – Lunch
1:00pm – Training Session 2: Shower/Laundry OR Chainsaw
3:00pm – End

REGISTRATION INFORMATION:
Register now using the online form.
Cost for new volunteers is $35 and includes the following:

Background check
ID Badge
IowaDR volunteer hat & shirt
All training for the three years covered by the background check.

The registration fee of $35 can be paid online via the IowaDR Donation page.

Register Now

Iowadr donation page

Volunteer Training – Sexual Abuse Prevention – August 2nd
2025-08-02 08:00 - 11:00 | First Family Church Ankeny, 317 SE Magazine Rd, Ankeny, IA, 50021, United States
Kids & Youth Volunteer Training – Sexual Abuse Prevention
• Saturday, August 2nd • 8:00am-11:00am • First Family Church, Ankeny
First Family Church in Ankeny is inviting BCI church leaders to participate in a Sexual Abuse Prevention training for volunteers. The event is free, but registration is required.

Register Now

The main session will feature a large-group presentation from guest speaker Jon Nelson, who served on the SBC Sexual Abuse Task Force. He will address how to prevent sexual abuse in the church, why this conversation is essential, and offer practical steps churches can take to identify potential risks and protect the vulnerable. This training is primarily for First Family’s Next Gen Volunteers but is open to anyone from a BCI church: ministry leaders, volunteer coordinators, or those serving in Kids or Youth Ministry.
This could be a helpful opportunity for your team to discuss protecting kids and youth and determining some next steps and potential implementation in your own context.
Register through the First Family Church Center (requires creating user profile).

"Mission Building Seminar" Zoom from Small Church USA
2025-08-27 13:00 - 14:00
“Mission Building Seminar” – Small Church USA

Wednesday, August 27th • 1:00pm–2:00pm
Online Via Zoom (Email for Link)

Join us for an informational Zoom call with Mike Vauters, Vice President of Pastoral Development of Small Church USA, on Wednesday, August 27, at 1:00pm-2:00pm. This seminar will contain a general overview of mission statement, but will zero in on integrating your mission statement into your ministry, and ways to measure your mission. If you think this will be helpful to you, schedule it, jump on, and come along for the ride.
To learn more, join the Zoom call! RSVP by emailing Ben Bradley using the form below, and we’ll send you the call link.

Email Ben Bradley for Zoom Link

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2025 Preaching Workshop – September 12th
2025-09-12 08:00 - 13:00 | First Family Church Ankeny, 317 SE Magazine Rd, Ankeny, IA, 50021, United States
Preaching Workshop

DATE: Friday, September 12th TIME: 8:00am–1:00pm (concludes with lunch) LOCATION: First Family Church, Ankeny, Iowa COST: $35 (includes materials & lunch)

REGISTER NOW

“Preaching: The Pastor’s Greatest Leadership Tool”
We’re thrilled to announce an upcoming workshop dedicated to the art of preaching! BCI’s Preaching Workshop is a one-day event on Friday, September 12th. This is a state-wide event hosted by First Family Church in Ankeny and sponsored by the Baptist Convention of Iowa (BCI). If you are looking for hands-on help and tools you can use in any realm of preaching, whether it be preparation or delivery, this workshop is for you!
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to enhance your preaching skills and connect with fellow pastors who share your passion for preaching God’s Word!

About Our Speaker
Russ Barksdale, – Founder, Next Level Leadership
Russ has been active in ministry for over 50 years, first as a layman at FBC Houston and then on staff at churches in Albuquerque, NM and Jackson, MS. He pastored FBC Carthage, MS for 5 years and retired in 2019 after 25 years as Lead Pastor of the five-campus Rush Creek Church in Arlington. Russ has been an adjunct professor at Southwestern Seminary, Liberty Seminary, and Dallas Baptist University. He is the founder of Next Level Leadership, a coaching and consulting ministry to pastors, planters, and churches for over a decade. He brings a wealth of experience and encouragement to church leaders and is a consultant for the SBTC and NAMB.

"Next Level Leadership" Website

Full Bio
Russ was born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He graduated from The University of Oklahoma with a B.B.A., working in the oil industry beginning in 1972. Active in ministry as a layman at Houston’s First Baptist, God called him and his wife, Sue, into career ministry in 1981. He served on staff at Hoffmantown B.C., Albuquerque, N.M. and FBC, Jackson, MS from 1984-89. His first pastorate was at FBC, Carthage, MS from 1989-94. While in Mississippi, Russ graduated from New Orleans Seminary with an M.Div. and a Ph.D. (homiletics) before moving to Arlington, TX as pastor of Rush Creek Church in 1994. Under his leadership, Rush Creek grew from one campus of 250 to 6 campuses of over 4,500 in attendance. He retired in October, 2019 after 25 years as Lead Pastor.
Russ and Sue, married in 1981, have three children, who are all married to godly spouses—and 10 grandchildren! Sue has authored and published 3 children’s books that have helped and encouraged parents teach their children about Jesus, Christmas, and prayer. Russ has authored 2 books on spiritual formation and writes daily devotionals from the Bible and a weekly blog on social issues that intersect with the Imago Dei.
Russ has been an adjunct professor at Southwestern Seminary, Liberty Seminary, and Dallas Baptist University. He is the founder of Next Level Leadership, a coaching and consulting ministry to pastors and churches.
He has served on various boards at the association and state level including personnel committee for the Tarrant Baptist Association, Resolutions Committee for the Southern Baptist of Texas Convention, Chairman of Trustees for the Southern Baptist of Texas Foundation. He also works with SEND Texas church planters.

REGISTER NOW

Pastoral Succession Workshop – September 16th
2025-09-16 10:00 - 15:00 | First Family Church Ankeny, 317 SE Magazine Rd, Ankeny, IA, 50021, United States
Pastoral Succession Workshop

DATE & TIME: Tuesday, September 16th • 10:00am-3:00pm LOCATION: First Family Church (317 SE Magazine Rd, Ankeny) COST: Free for BCI Pastors, Elders, & Elder Candidates (includes materials & lunch)

REGISTER NOW

Passing the Baton of Shepherding in Your Church
What does a healthy pastoral transition look like? How do you prepare your church, your successor, and yourself? Join us for a one-day workshop designed for BCI pastors who are beginning to think about succession planning, whether it’s five years away or just around the corner.
This event will provide the opportunity for reflection, shared wisdom, and gospel-centered guidance. We’ll hear from Iowa pastors who have walked through succession already. They’ll share what worked, what didn’t, and what they wish they had known. Come ready to learn, ask questions, and connect with others navigating through this same season.
Whether you’re just beginning to think about retirement or already making plans, this workshop is for you. Registration is now open. Mark your calendar and make plans to join us!

REGISTER NOW

SESSION CONTENT
• Session 1: Succession Timeline & Tools • Session 2: A Succession Testimony: Stonebrook Church • Session 3: Succession and the Gospel • Session 4: Succession Case Studies: You!

Succession Testimony: Stonebrook Church, Ames
At Stonebrook Church in Ames, pastoral succession has been a story of God’s faithfulness. Former Lead Pastor Brad Barrett and the rest of the pastor team recognized the character and gifting of one of the younger pastors, Matt Heerema. The team developed a succession process to transition the Lead Pastor role to Matt. Brad continues to serve as a pastor on the pastor team alongside Matt, offering a testimony of how healthy succession can strengthen both leaders and the church.

PASTOR BRAD BARRETT Preaching & Counseling
Brad has a passion for teaching the Bible and making it relevant to everyday life, whether in large groups, small group Bible studies, or one-on-one counseling, and he is certified as a biblical counselor through the ministry, Association of Certified Biblical Counselors.
A few authors who have influenced him over the years are J.I. Packer (his book, Knowing God), Edward Welch (several books, including When People Are Big and God Is Small), and C.S. Lewis (especially the classic Chronicles of Narnia series). Brad and his wife Annette are both Iowa-born-and-raised, and they have four married daughters and six grandchildren who provide him “more joy than a human should be allowed to have.”

PASTOR MATT HEEREMAPreaching, Vision, & Strategic Leadership

Matt serves as lead pastor focusing on preaching, vision, and strategic leadership. He and his wife Nancy have four daughters. Matt came to Christ at a young age through the Awana program at an E-Free church. After a period of wandering in high school and early college, he became serious about his faith in college in 1999 at age 20. The call to ministry came shortly after.
Though Matt has been studying God’s word and the great theologians and scholars since that time, he is only just now pursuing a formal degree through Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He also owns and directs Mere Agency whose goal is to help the church use the web to impact the world with the gospel.

2025 "For The Church" Conference – MBTS
2025-09-29 16:00 - 2025-09-30 17:00 | Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, 5001 North Oak Trafficway, Kansas City, MO, 64118, United States
2025 “For The Church” Conference at MBTS

September 29th – September 30thMidwestern Baptist Theological SeminaryKansas City, MOCost: $85

One day, the kingdoms of this world will become the Kingdom of our Lord. Until then, pastors and ministry leaders are to minister by faith, drawing strength from His promises and persevering for the joy set before them.
This year’s For the Church National Conference at Midwestern Seminary calls ministry leaders to live and labor in light of eternity. We invite you to join us in Kansas City on September 29-30 as we fix our eyes on the coming Kingdom of Christ who has called us to His eternal glory.

REGISTER NOW

BCI Webinar: How to Start a Christian School – October 8th
2025-10-08 12:00 - 13:00
BCI Webinar: How to Start a Christian School in Iowa

WHEN: Wednesday, October 8th, 12:00pm-12:45pm WHERE: Online Webinar COST: FREE

Join Zoom Meeting on October 8th

IACS Website

Considering Starting a Christian School?
Have you ever thought about starting a Christian school? What opportunities for ministry exist with churches and schools working together?
Tim Lubinus, BCI Executive Director, Josh Bowar, Outreach Director of the Iowa Association of Christian Schools, and Thomas Lambert, superintendent of Enlightium Academy. Together, they’ll guide you through key questions and opportunities related to starting a Christian school in your community.
Join the Christian Education Revolution!
Iowa is experiencing a Christian education revolution, and now is a great time for churches, church leaders, groups of parents, and others to consider starting schools. Join this webinar to learn more about the supports in place to start a new school, the need in Iowa, the important ministry impact that churches and schools can have together, and what has already been happening across the state. This webinar is all about learning with no pressure!
For BCI Pastors and Church Leaders
Whether you’re curious, seriously considering, or just want to understand more about Christian education in Iowa, we’d love to have you join us. Questions? Contact us at office@bciowa.org.

EMAIL TO LET US KNOW YOU'RE COMING

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Youth Worker Luncheon – Thursday, October 9th
2025-10-09 11:30 - 13:00
Area-Wide Youth Worker Gathering – October 9th

• When: Thursday, October 9th • 11:30am–1:00pm • Where: Freedom For Youth Ministries (2301 Hickman Rd. Des Moines, 50310 / Worship Center, Main Building) • Cost: Free for any youth worker (Includes Lunch) • Host: Jonathan Meyer • Guest Speaker: Dr. Heidi Warner • Topic: Emotionally Healthy Youth Workers (Maintaining Balance & Assessing Long Term Physical & Spiritual Health in Youth Ministry) • Who Is This For?: Any Part-time, Full-time or Volunteer Youth Workers • Special Gifts & Resources for Summer Ministry Provided • To RSVP: Email Jonathan Meyer at jmeyer@gracehome.com

Youth workers, mark your calendars for the Area-Wide Youth Worker Gathering. The goal of this lunch gathering is to help youth workers get to know one another, feel supported, and learn about useful resources. You’ll also have the chance to discuss issues facing you in your local student ministry context.
There is no cost and lunch is provided.
BONUS GIFT: Register early for our Luncheon to secure your FREE copy of The Emotionally Healthy Leader by Peter Scazzero.
To sign up, contact the event coordinator Jonathan Meyer, Grace Church Youth Pastor, using the form below or via email at jmeyer@gracehome.com.

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2025 BCI Annual Meeting
2025-11-07 11:00 - 2025-11-08 14:30 | Walnut Creek Church, Downtown, 323 E Locust St., Des Moines, IA, 50309, United States
2025 BCI Ministry Conference & Annual Meeting
November 7th & 8th • Walnut Creek Church, Des Moines

Don’t miss our biggest event of the year! Connect, get equipped, and pursue our shared mission to multiply disciples and lead with purpose.
Join pastors and church leaders from across our convention for the 2025 BCI Ministry Conference & Annual Meeting. It’s more than a business meeting, it’s an opportunity to connect, be refreshed, and get equipped as we multiply disciples, develop leaders, and plant churches together.

REGISTER NOW!

SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER: DR. JEFF IORG– President/CEO, SBC Executive Committee

We are greatly honored to welcome Dr. Jeff Iorg, the President and CEO of the Executive Committee of the Southern Baptist Convention to be our guest speaker at the 2025 BCI Ministry Conference and Annual Meeting.

SBC Bio

Dr. Jeff Iorg serves as President and CEO of the SBC Executive Committee, a role he assumed in March 2024 after two decades as president of Gateway Seminary. During his tenure at Gateway, he led a major campus relocation to Southern California, launched innovative global ministry programs, and oversaw a $50 million increase in the seminary’s endowment.
Before Gateway, Dr. Iorg served as executive director of the Northwest Baptist Convention, where he helped coordinate the work of 400+ churches and significantly increased Cooperative Program giving. His ministry journey began as a church planter in Oregon and includes roles as a children’s pastor and lead pastor. A passionate educator and leader, he holds degrees from Hardin-Simmons, Midwestern, and Southwestern Seminaries, and is the author of eight books on leadership and church health. He and his wife, Ann, have three children and five grandchildren.

Ministry Conference • Friday, November 7th • 11:00am-4:15pm
• For All BCI Church Leaders & Members • Free • Registration Required

Pastors & Wives Banquet • Friday, November 7th • 6:00pm-7:30pm
• For Pastoral Staff & Wives • Free for BCI Pastoral Staff • Registration Required

BCI Annual Meeting • Saturday, November 8th • 9:00am-12:30pm
• For all BCI Church Leaders & Members • Free for Messengers & Guests • Registration Required

Schedule

Ministry Conference • Friday, November 7th
10:00am – Registration 11:00am – Brunch with Dr. Jeff Iorg 12:30pm – “Leading Through Major Change” with Dr. Jeff Iorg 2:00pm – Breakout Session 1 3:15pm – Breakout Session 2 4:15pm – Reception & Exhibits – 4:45pm-5:45pm – Pastors’ Wives Fellowship
Pastors & Wives Banquet • Friday, November 7th
6:00pm – Pastors & Wives Banquet Start 7:30pm – Banquet End

Annual Meeting • Saturday, November 8th
8:00am – Registration & Exhibitors Open 9:00am – Annual Meeting Session 1 10:30am – Break (Coffee, Water, Snacks) 10:45am – Annual Meeting Session 2 12:30pm – Lunch 12:30pm – Global Missions Lunch – Presented by WMU & IMB (Grab a lunch & join!)

REGISTER NOW!

Messenger or Guest?
There are 2 types of attendees for the Annual Meeting on Saturday: “Messengers” are approved by their home church to vote in the BCI Business Meeting. “Guests” includes any other attendees and they are not approved to vote during the Business Meeting.
Find out how many Messengers your church is allowed by referencing the giving table in the Messengers Info Sheet (PDF).

Childcare Information

Childcare will be provided for children 6 months to 6th grade.
Registration will be required for all children. NOTE: Please register for childcare separately for each event (since not all attendees will attend all events).
Lunch and snacks will be provided during the Ministry Conference.
Dinner will be provided during the Pastors Conference.
After the Annual Meeting, parents can pick up their children and have boxed lunch together.
Deadline to Register for Childcare is Thursday, October 30th.

REGISTER FOR CHILDCARE

Pickup & Drop Off Schedule for Parents
Friday, November 7th Ministry Conference
10:30am-11:00am – Drop Off (Please feed your child breakfast before arriving, lunch and snack will be provided) 4:15pm-4:30pm – Pick Up
Pastors & Wives Banquet
5:45pm-6:00pm – Drop Off (Dinner will be provided) 7:30pm-7:45pm – Pick Up
Saturday, November 8th BCI Annual Meeting
8:30am-9:00am – Drop Off (Please feed your child breakfast before arriving, snack will be provided) 12:30pm-12:45pm – Pick Up (Grab boxed lunches for your whole family)

Breakouts

SESSION 1 • Friday, November 7th • 2:00pm 1) Sorting Out Staff, Pastor, Elder, Deacon, & Congregation Roles – Todd Stiles 2) Multiplying Leaders – Dan Rude 3) Soul Care for the Pastor – Eric Schumacher
SESSION 2 • Friday, November 7th • 3:15pm 1) What Would It Take to See a Church Planting Movement in Iowa? – Todd Stiles & Ryan Johnston 2) How to Succeed as a Small Church – SCUSA 3) Soul Care for Church Members – Todd Wallace

Youth Worker Luncheon – Thursday, January 15th
2026-01-15 11:30 - 13:00
Area-Wide Youth Worker Gathering

Thursday, January 15th • 11:30am–1:00pm • Grace Church, Des Moines

Luncheon Topic: Healthy Lead Pastor Relationships
How can we better come alongside our Lead Pastor and fellow leaders, and encourage them to come alongside us? (Topics addressed: teamwork, church-wide participation, positive staff culture)

Date: Thursday, January 16th
Location: Grace Church, 4200 East 25th St, Des Moines IA 50317 (Youth Room, 2nd Floor)
Host: Andrew Nipper, Jonathan Meyer, & Ignite Youth Leadership Conference
Time: 11:30am – 1:00pm
Speaker: Pastor Matt Agee – Senior Pastor at Grace Church
Who: Anyone Part-Time, Full-Time, or Volunteer Youth Worker
Lunch: Provided – No Cost (Tasty Tacos)
To RSVP: Complete the form below or email: jmeyer@gracehome.com.

Youth workers, mark your calendars for the Area-Wide Youth Worker Gathering. The goal of this lunch gathering is to help youth workers get to know one another, feel supported, and learn about useful resources. You’ll also have the chance to discuss issues facing you in your local student ministry context. There is no cost and lunch is provided. To sign up, contact the event coordinator Jonathan Meyer, Grace Church Youth Pastor, using the form below or via email at jmeyer@gracehome.com.

EMAIL TO RSVP

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Youth Ministry Resource Webpage

Visit the Youth Ministry Resources Webpage for some of the best resources for Youth Ministry in BCI.
What are you doing today to prepare the church of tomorrow? Our youth are the present and future of our churches and one of the best opportunities for the gospel to flourish.

Youth Ministry Resource Webpage

Want more personalized help?
Jonathan Meyer, Student Ministry at Grace Church in Des Moines is available to coach BCI church leaders to address problems and take their student ministry to the next level. Use the form below to request a coaching call with Jonathan.

Request a Student Ministry Coaching Call with Jonathan Meyer

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When would be a good time to call?

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NAMB Sending Lab – Adel – January 26th
2026-01-26 09:00 - 16:00
NAMB Sending Lab

When: Monday, January 26th • 9:00am – 4:00pm
Where: Restoration Church
29147 Prospect Cir • Adel, IA 50003
Cost: Registration is free
Food: Lunch & snacks provided

REGISTER

The Sending Lab is a one-day workshop that will help you develop a vision and plan for leading your church to send. It’s a collaborative experience that will connect you with other pastors on the same journey, while guiding you to identify your next steps for finding, developing, and sending church planters. Lunch and snacks provided.
Schedule
9:00–9:30 a.m – Registration and Check-in 9:30am–10:00am – Welcome and Overview 10:00am–11:00am – Why Sending? 11:00am–12:00pm – Developing Your Sending Vision 12:00pm–1:00pm – Lunch 1:00pm–1:45pm – Identifying Potential Planters 1:45pm–2:30pm – Developing Potential Planters 2:30pm–3:15pm – Starting a Church Planting Residency 3:15pm–3:45pm – Sending Church Resources and Next Steps 4:00pm – Dismiss

If you can attend, please register at this link. Registration is FREE.

NAMB Sending Lab En Espanol – Ankeny – 21 de febrero
2026-02-21 09:00 - 15:15 | Cornerstone Baptist Church, Ankeny, 701 E First St., Ankeny, IA, 50021, United States
NAMB Sending Lab en Espanol

21 de febrero • 9:00am – 3:15pm
Cornerstone Baptist Church701 E First St.Ankeny, IA 50021

INSCRIBIR

Sending Lab en Español es un taller que te ayudará a desarrollar una visión y un plan para guiar a tus plantadores y equipos de plantación de iglesias. Es una experiencia colaborativa que te conectará con otros pastores en el mismo camino hacia la multiplicación, a la vez que te ayudará a identificar tus próximos pasos para descubrir, desarrollar y movilizar a los plantadores de iglesias. Incluye almuerzo y refrigerios.
HORARIO
9:00 a.m. – Llegada y Registro9:30 a.m. – Bienvenida y Resumen10:00 a.m. – Sesión 1: Por que enviar obreros?11:00 a. m.- Sesión 2: Desarrollando la vision de envfo de obreros12:00 p.m. – Almuerzo (Sesión 6: Recursos de la IglesiaEnviadora y proximos pasos)1:00 p.m. – Sesión 3: ldentificando posibles plantadores1:45 p.m. – Sesión 4: Desarrollando posibles plantadores2:30 p.m. – Sesión 5: Estrategia de Multiplicación3:15 p.m. – Despedida

Registrate antes del: 20 de febrero de 2026

NAMB Sending Lab – Clear Lake – March 9th
2026-03-09 09:00 - 16:00
NAMB Sending Lab

When: Monday, March 9th • 9:00am – 4:00pm Where: Harvest Bible Chapel North Iowa2200 N. 24th St. • Clear Lake , IA 50428 Cost: Registration is free Food: Lunch & snacks provided

REGISTER

The NAMB Sending Lab is a one-day, collaborative workshop designed to help churches develop a clear vision and plan for becoming sending churches. Facilitated by SEND Network, this experience will guide you in identifying potential church planters, developing leaders, and creating practical pathways for sending. You’ll learn alongside other pastors and leaders, engage real ministry challenges, and leave with actionable next steps tailored to your church’s context.
Registration is FREE with lunch and snacks provided.
SCHEDULE
9:00–9:30 a.m – Registration and Check-in 9:30am–10:00am – Welcome and Overview 10:00am–11:00am – Why Sending? 11:00am–12:00pm – Developing Your Sending Vision 12:00pm–1:00pm – Lunch 1:00pm–1:45pm – Identifying Potential Planters 1:45pm–2:30pm – Developing Potential Planters 2:30pm–3:15pm – Starting a Church Planting Residency 3:15pm–3:45pm – Sending Church Resources and Next Steps 4:00pm – Dismiss

WHICH SENDING LAB IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
If you missed the first Sending Lab of the year, this is another opportunity to attend the same workshop. There will be two more identical events on Monday, September 14th and Monday, October 5th at First Family Church in Ankeny.
The Clear Lake Sending Lab is especially ideal for churches in the northern half of Iowa, but all churches are welcome. This training also prepares churches for the NAMB Residency Builder (Dec 1–2 in Ankeny).

Preaching & Preachers Workshop – March 10th
2026-03-10 09:00 - 14:30 | Walnut Creek Church, Downtown, 323 E Locust St., Des Moines, IA, 50309, United States
Preaching Workshop in Des Moines:“Practices of Christ-Centered Preaching”
– Midwestern Institute for Preaching & Preachers

Tuesday, March 10th • 9:00am-2:30pm Walnut Creek (Downtown) • 323 E Locust St, DSM

Join us Tuesday, March 10th in Des Moines at Walnut Creek (Downtown) for the Preaching & Preachers Workshop, presented by the MBTS Institute for Preaching & Preachers on “Practices of Christ-Centered Preaching.” Featuring Jared Wilson, Jeff Dodge, and Phil Newton, this one-day seminar is for current and aspiring pastors and preachers. You’ll gain practical strategies for sharpening expository preaching and keeping Christ central in every sermon. Registration is $20 and includes lunch.

REGISTER NOW

Discipleship Pathways Workshop – March 27
2026-03-27 09:00 - 16:00 | Stonebrook Community Church, 3611 Eisenhower Avenue, Ames, IA, 50010, United States
Discipleship Pathways Workshop – SEND + BCI

When: Friday, March 27th • 9:00am – 4:00pm Where: Stonebrook Church3611 Eisenhower Avenue • Ames, IA 50010 Cost: Registration is free Food: Lunch & snacks provided

REGISTER

Join us Friday, March 27th, from 9:00am–4:00pm at Stonebrook Community Church in Ames for a practical workshop designed to help pastors and church leaders think clearly and intentionally about discipleship.
This one-day session will guide you and your leadership team through the process of developing (or refining) a clear discipleship pathway for your church. Together, we’ll explore what intentional disciple-making looks like in your unique context and provide practical tools to help you move from ideas to implementation.
If you want greater clarity, alignment, and momentum in how your church makes disciples, this workshop is for you.
Register now!

REGISTER

Youth Worker Luncheon – Thursday, April 16th
2026-04-16 11:30 - 13:00
Central Iowa Youth Worker Gathering – April 16th

• When: Thursday, April 16th • 11:30am–1:00pm • Where: The Mission Church • 12001 Ridgemont Dr. • Urbandale, IA 50323 • Cost: Free for any youth worker (Includes Lunch) • Host: Adam Evans, Youth Pastor at The Mission Church • Who Is This For?: Any Part-time, Full-time or Volunteer Youth Workers • Special Gifts & Ministry Resources Provided• Topic: Casting A Vision For Reaching Students • To RSVP: Email Jonathan Meyer at jmeyer@gracehome.com

Youth workers, mark your calendars for the Area-Wide Youth Worker Gathering. The goal of this lunch gathering is to help youth workers get to know one another, feel supported, and learn about useful resources. You’ll also have the chance to discuss issues facing you in your local student ministry context.
There is no cost and lunch is provided.
To sign up, contact the event coordinator Jonathan Meyer, Grace Church Youth Pastor, using the form below or via email at jmeyer@gracehome.com.

EMAIL TO SIGN UP

Name

Email Address

Church Name

Church City

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BCI Seminar – Teaching the Psalms – April 17th
2026-04-17 09:00 - 14:00 | Westwind Church, 1115 Southeast Westbrook Drive, Waukee, IA, 50263, United States
Teaching the Psalms

DATE: Friday, April 17th TIME: 9:00am–2:00pm LOCATION: Westwind Church, Waukee COST: FREE (includes materials & lunch)

REGISTER NOW

“Teaching the Psalms as Christian Scripture”
Join us on Friday, April 17th, 9:00am-2:00pm at Westwind Church in Waukee for an engaging seminar all about teaching the Psalms.
Who is this seminar for?
This seminar is open to pastors, men’s/women’s ministry leaders, Bible study leaders, Sunday School teachers, lay people, and anyone who wants to be equipped to better understand and teach the Psalms.
Josh Tillman, Lead Pastor at Westwind Church will be guiding this seminar to provide teachers young and old with fresh insights and practical tips on bringing the Psalms to life.
The Psalms teach us to pray, but they also teach us how to teach. Martin Luther notes that the Psalter “should be precious and dear to us if only because it most clearly promises the death and resurrection of Christ, and describes His kingdom, and the nature and standing of all Christian people. It could well be called a ‘little Bible’ since it contains, set out in the briefest and most beautiful form, all that is to be found in the whole Bible.” Within this seminar we will study how the Psalter teaches us how to do biblical theology, how to the teach the Psalter as a book, and the New Testament use of the Psalms.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow your teaching skills in a relaxed and friendly setting!

About Our Speaker
Josh Tillman, Lead Pastor –Westwind Church, Waukee

Westwind Church Website

I was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida and came to faith in the Lord when I was 13 years old. My home church partnered with Bob Tebow and his evangelistic association and I began taking annual mission trips with him to the Philippines while in high school before spending a year there after graduation. It was during this time that I sensed God’s call into ministry and met and married Joanna, my wife of 22 years. We moved to Louisville, KY where I did my undergraduate at Boyce College and my M.Div at Southern Seminary. While at Southern I had the opportunity to intern with a professor who was in the process of revitalizing a local church. This internship radically changed the directory of my life and ministry. From there my wife and I have been apart of church revitalization work in Kentucky, Missouri, and Florida before being called to serve here in Iowa.
I have continued to have a heart for the nations and have had opportunities to train pastors in the Philippines, El Salvador, and Nepal. I earned my PhD in Biblical Theology from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2022 and wrote of the message and theology of Book I of the Psalter. My research interest has focused primarily on biblical theology and ecclesiology. Recently, I have helped Corban University develop an Old Testament undergraduate course on Poetry and Wisdom Literature and have began serving as an adjunct professor.
Additionally, I have served on local association boards for revitalization training and equipping and I currently am on the board for Waypoint Resources in Waukee, IA. My wife and I have five children whom we homeschool (ages 10-19) and our oldest is enrolled at Spurgeon College’s Fusion program and is training to spend three months overseas.

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Heartland Sioux City – 2026 Women's Conference
2026-04-25 08:00 - 14:30 | Heartland Community Baptist Church, 2201 W 19th St, Sioux City, IA, 51103, United States
Heartland Sioux City – 2026 Women’s Conference

When: Saturday, April 25th • 8:30am–2:30pmWhere: Heartland Church • 2201 W 19th St. • Sioux CityCost: $35

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Conference Info
Heartland Church in Sioux City is hosting the 2026 Women’s Conference and invites women from BCI churches across north and west Iowa to join for a meaningful day of encouragement and spiritual growth.
This year’s conference will focus on moving beyond head knowledge into an abiding, life-giving relationship with Christ, being rooted, strengthened, and transformed by the River of Life. The day is designed to help women deepen their walk with the Lord while connecting with others from across the region.
The conference will feature Kari Minter, a pastor’s wife who also serves with BCI in supporting pastors’ wives. Her heart for ministry and encouragement will be a meaningful part of the day.
This is a great opportunity for women in your church to step away, be refreshed, and return encouraged in their faith.

Campers On Mission – 2026 National Rally
2026-06-02 08:00 - 2026-06-04 17:00 | Amana RV Park & Event Center, 3850 C Street, Amana, IA, 52203, United States
Campers On Mission – 2026 National Rally

DATE: June 2–4 LOCATION: Amana, Iowa – Amana RV & Event Center

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Iowa COM Website

A unique national gathering for campers, volunteers, & servants
For the first time, Iowa will host the National Campers On Mission Rally, June 2–4 at the Amana RV Park & Event Center in Amana, Iowa!
Join volunteers from across the country for a special gathering focused on faith, fellowship, service, and encouragement.
Whether you are already involved in Campers On Mission or simply curious to learn more, you are welcome.

Register now for the Campers On Mission National Rally!

What is Campers On Mission?
Campers On Mission is a ministry of believers who use their love of camping, travel, and practical skills to serve churches and ministries.
Members help with projects such as:

Painting
Repairs
Construction help
Maintenance
Camp improvements
Church facility projects

Their mission is simple: Sharing Christ As We Go.

Who Should Attend?
Who Should Attend?

RV owners and campers
Retirees looking to serve
Handy helpers / builders / fixers
Church members seeking mission opportunities
Anyone curious about the ministry

Why This Rally Matters
This is a rare opportunity to host volunteers and leaders from across the country right here in Iowa!

What’s Your Next Step?

Share this opportunity with your church members
Register for the Rally
Learn About Iowa COM
Contact Iowa COM

Lodging / Camping

Amana RV Park & Event Center (3850 C. Street Amana, Iowa 52203)
Campsite reservations must be made through Iowa COM Registration for the rally for any dates between May 31st and June 5th.

Questions?

Contact Pastor Rick Mott, Iowa COM President
Email: iowacampersonmission@gmail.com
Call: 319-290-2127 (Shiloh Baptist Church phone)
Text 319-214-3405

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2026 SBC Annual Meeting
2026-06-07 09:00 - 2026-06-10 13:00

SEND Network Iowa: One Day – August 28th
2026-08-28 08:30 - 15:00 | First Family Church Ankeny, 317 SE Magazine Rd, Ankeny, IA, 50021, United States
Send Network Quarterly

When: Friday, August 28th • 8:30am – 3:00pm
Where: First Family Church 317 SE Magazine Rd, Ankeny, IA 50021
Cost: Registration is free & Lunch is provided
One Day is a full-day gathering for pastors, church leaders, and church planters built around two irreducible priorities: preaching and shepherding. Morning sessions bring everyone together around the Word and prayer. After lunch, four ministry tracks give each group focused time with practitioners who have spent decades in the work.
Lunch is provided. Open to pastors, church leaders, planters, and their teams.

EVENT WEBPAGE

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Sponsored by SEND Network Iowa and the Baptist Convention of Iowa.

2026 "For The Church" Conference – MBTS
2026-09-28 16:00 - 2026-09-29 16:45 | Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, 5001 North Oak Trafficway, Kansas City, MO, 64118, United States
2025 “For The Church” Conference at MBTS

September 28th – September 29th Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary Kansas City, MO Cost: $99

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Most of the time, ministry does not feel like dramatic mountaintop moments—but that does not mean it is stagnant.
At the For the Church Conference on September 28–29, we will turn our attention to what is always at work in every season: the Word of God.
Across six main sessions, we’ll consider how God’s Word is actively working in and through His church. Hear from:

Jason K. Allen – The Convicting Word
H.B. Charles, Jr. – The Compelling Word
Clint Pressley – The Triumphant Word
Afshin Ziafat – The Multiplying Word
Jared C. Wilson – The Illuminating Word
Kevin DeYoung – The Incarnate Word

We hope you will join us to marvel at how God is speaking, shaping, convicting, saving, and building His church through His Word.

Fortify: Abuse Prevention & Response Training – Feb 22 – Iowa City
2027-02-22 10:00 - 13:00 | All Nations Baptist Church, 1715 Mormon Trek Blvd, Iowa City, IA, 52246, United States
Fortify: Abuse Prevention & Response Training

Monday, February 22nd • Iowa City— 10:00am–1:00pm
Host: All Nations Baptist Church, Iowa City— 1715 Mormon Trek Blvd, Iowa City 52246 Cost: Free (Includes Lunch & Materials)

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Churches are called to be places of safety, healing, and hope—especially for children, youth, and other vulnerable people in our care. Tragically, abuse can and does occur in ministry settings when safeguards are weak or missing.
What is Fortify?
This half-day training will help pastors and ministry leaders understand what abuse is, how it impacts individuals and church communities, and how your church can put wise safeguards and response plans in place. Together we’ll learn from practitioners in abuse prevention, law, and law enforcement, and we’ll highlight resources available through the SBC’s Abuse Prevention & Response work.
Who Should Attend?
This event is designed especially for:

Senior/lead pastors and elders
Executive pastors, administrators, and office managers
Nursery, children’s, youth, and college ministry leaders
Special needs ministry leaders
Biblical counselors and care ministry team members
Any church leader involved in screening, training, or supervising volunteers and staff

Speakers

Jeff Dalrymple Jeff serves as Director of Abuse Prevention & Response with the SBC Executive Committee. He works with churches, associations, and state conventions to promote abuse prevention, care, and response best practices across Southern Baptist life.

Debbie HansenDebbie has served with ECAP’s Accreditation Program since early 2022 and is now the Accreditation Program Director. She enjoys assisting organizations with the important mission of protecting children and workers. Debbie’s background is in teaching and Christian School Administration, and has served as an Auditor on ACSI Accreditation Teams.

Steve BensemaSteve served seven years in pastoral ministry, including helping launch and lead a church plant in Iowa in 2021. Today, he serves as an agent with Lightwell Insurance, helping churches and ministries across Iowa navigate risk and protection. Prior to ministry, Steve worked as an entrepreneur in real estate, property investment, and business ownership.

Schedule
9:30am-10:00am – Registration
10:00am-10:15am – Welcome & Opening Prayer
10:15am-10:45am – Session 1
10:45am-11:15am – Session 2
11:20am-11:30am – Break
11:30am-12:00pm – Session 3
12:00pm-12:15pm – Lunch
12:15pm-12:45pm – Q&A Panel (over lunch)
1:00pm – Conclusion

Sponsored by Lightwell Insurance Advisors

Fortify: Abuse Prevention & Response Training – Feb 23 – Adel
2027-02-23 10:00 - 13:00 | Restoration Church, 29147 Prospect Circle, Adel, IA, 50003, United States
Fortify: Abuse Prevention & Response Training

Tuesday, February 23rd • Adel — 10:00am–1:00pm
Host: Restoration Church — 29147 Prospect Circle, Adel, IA 50003 Cost: Free (Includes Lunch & Materials)

REGISTER

Churches are called to be places of safety, healing, and hope—especially for children, youth, and other vulnerable people in our care. Tragically, abuse can and does occur in ministry settings when safeguards are weak or missing.
What is Fortify?
This half-day training will help pastors and ministry leaders understand what abuse is, how it impacts individuals and church communities, and how your church can put wise safeguards and response plans in place. Together we’ll learn from practitioners in abuse prevention, law, and law enforcement, and we’ll highlight resources available through the SBC’s Abuse Prevention & Response work.
Who Should Attend?
This event is designed especially for:

Senior/lead pastors and elders
Executive pastors, administrators, and office managers
Nursery, children’s, youth, and college ministry leaders
Special needs ministry leaders
Biblical counselors and care ministry team members
Any church leader involved in screening, training, or supervising volunteers and staff

Speakers

Jeff Dalrymple Jeff serves as Director of Abuse Prevention & Response with the SBC Executive Committee. He works with churches, associations, and state conventions to promote abuse prevention, care, and response best practices across Southern Baptist life.

Debbie HansenDebbie has served with ECAP’s Accreditation Program since early 2022 and is now the Accreditation Program Director. She enjoys assisting organizations with the important mission of protecting children and workers. Debbie’s background is in teaching and Christian School Administration, and has served as an Auditor on ACSI Accreditation Teams.

Steve BensemaSteve served seven years in pastoral ministry, including helping launch and lead a church plant in Iowa in 2021. Today, he serves as an agent with Lightwell Insurance, helping churches and ministries across Iowa navigate risk and protection. Prior to ministry, Steve worked as an entrepreneur in real estate, property investment, and business ownership.

Schedule
9:30am-10:00am – Registration 10:00am-10:15am – Welcome & Opening Prayer 10:15am-10:45am – Session 1 10:45am-11:15am – Session 2 11:20am-11:30am – Break 11:30am-12:00pm – Session 3 12:00pm-12:15pm – Lunch 12:15pm-12:45pm – Q&A Panel (over lunch) 1:00pm – Conclusion

Sponsored by Lightwell Insurance Advisors
