Iowa Church Leaders Inspired to Multiply Churches at 2017 Exponential Conference

This year eleven leaders from Baptist Convention of Iowa affiliated churches participated in the Exponential Conference in Orlando, Florida on April 25 to 27. The conference is designed to motivate and train potential church planters and church leaders who are considering starting a church.

The stated goal of Exponential is to “champion church multiplication and equip church planters and multipliers as we seek to help move the needle on multiplication from less than 4% of churches actively reproducing to greater than 10%!”

Below are some comments from this year’s attendees from Iowa:

 “It’s really not our dream, it’s not our mission. We just have the privilege to serve God’s mission, and he loves to receive glory by using us.” Nick Reed, Urbandale

“We enjoyed many of the speakers, but ultimately it was great getting to know the stories, lives and burdens of the church planters here in Iowa. The conference provided practical tools, personal connections and spiritual encouragement that continues to confirm & excite us about our call to plant Life Change Church in east Des Moines.” Steven Christensen, Des Moines

“To be surrounded by other church planters to learn from and be encouraged by the Word was so incredible! To hear from those who have been where we are was invaluable! The biggest thing I took away was staying focused on what God has called us to and trusting Him for the increase.” Jenn Christensen, Des Moines

“Exponential was helpful because I had the opportunity to interact with other planters and pastors from other parts of the country. I learned a lot from the main sessions and it was a refreshing spiritual time.” Arnaldo Achucarro, West Des Moines

“Exponential was a timely godsend for me for various reasons. It was a joy to connect with other planters in Iowa and exchange ideas and vision. I also had the pleasure of bringing a young aspiring planter with me and watching God stoke the fire of church planting in his heart. I am very thankful to have had the opportunity to attend this conference.” Donovan Santamaria, Cedar Rapids

“Exponential is an opportunity to connect and clarify. Not only with your team as you get some focused time together, but also with others in the field. Frankly, the workshops are the draw for me as you get exposed to experienced practitioners and can ask questions, delve deeper, etc.” -Todd Stiles, Ankeny