The 2025 Compelling Preaching Conference, is set for June 16-21 at Hastings College, (Hastings College, Courtesy)
HASTINGS — The 2025 Compelling Preaching Conference, set for June 16-21 at Hastings College, invites pastors and aspiring pastors to explore innovative ways to connect with younger generations through preaching.
“During the conference, presenters and participants will examine youth culture, exploring ways to interact with young people, and the spiritual topics that resonate with them today,” said Rev. Doodle Harris, Hastings College chaplain and director of ASPIRE (Academy of Student Preachers Inspiring Religious Engagement).
“Our goal is to understand how to nurture the spiritual lives of our young people in ways that enhance our entire faith community,” Harris said.
Registration, accommodations and meals provided at no cost for the first 50 who register. Details can be found at hastings.edu/preaching. The deadline to register is May 24, 2025.
The cross-generational event features an impressive lineup of presenters, including:
- Rev. Cece Armstrong, co-moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA)
- Dr. Corey Schlosser-Hall, deputy executive director of vision and innovation for the Presbyterian Mission Agency
- Rev. Dr. Dominique Robinson, assistant professor of preaching at the Seminary of the Southwest in Austin, Texas
- Rev. Eddie Mariel of First Presbyterian Church, Lexington, Nebraska
- Rev. Nathan Lamb, pastor, First Presbyterian Church in Manchester, Iowa
- Rev. Dr. Alyce M. McKenzie, professor of preaching and worship at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University
- Rev. Jihyun Oh, stated clerk of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA)
- Rev. Doodle Harris, Hastings College Chaplain
Topics for the conference change daily, with presenters covering the use of digital media and current culture to reach young adults and classes providing practical training for using technology and engaging in intergenerational dialogue.
Activities are also planned, as well as peer-to-peer workshops, providing time for aspiring and active preachers to learn with and from each other.
“Last year’s inaugural event saw participants grow in confidence and creativity while forming valuable connections,” Harris said. “These relationships become crucial resources for idea-sharing and feedback long after the conference ends.”
The conference begins on Monday, June 16, 2025, with registration from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. followed by a gathering event and dinner. It wraps up at 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 21.
