Why Should I Come to the Foundations Conference?
“Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel.” – Philippians 1:27
The Foundations Conference, taking place October 9–10 in Oshkosh, WI, is more than a leadership event or a calendar appointment. Foundations is a gospel-aligned gathering of Converge Great Lakes pastors and leaders to strengthen our unity of mission and rekindle our shared purpose.
In a time when ministry can feel isolated or fragmented, the words of Philippians 1:27 call us back to something deeper: to live and lead in a way that reflects the worth of the gospel. Paul’s charge to the church in Philippi was not just to maintain doctrinal fidelity but to strive side by side with others in the work of the gospel. That’s the heart behind the Foundations Conference. We need each other. FOUR reasons why you should come:
1. We Need Shared Gospel Unity
You’re not alone in ministry—and you weren’t meant to be. Foundations creates space for pastors, leaders, and spouses to stand firm together in one spirit, encouraging one another and aligning ourselves again to what truly matters: the gospel. Unity is not a luxury—it’s essential for mission. When we gather with like-minded leaders across our region, we remind one another that we are part of something larger than our own church. We belong to a movement God is using for Kingdom impact in the upper Midwest.
2. We Sharpen Each Other’s Calling
Leadership is hard. Sometimes you need encouragement, sometimes you need clarity, and often, you need other leaders around you who “get it.” Foundations provides both rich theological content AND practical insights, including teaching from keynote speaker Dr. Joel Lawrence of the Center for Pastor Theologians. Whether you’re a seasoned pastor, a church planter, a lay leader, or a spouse navigating ministry life, you’ll find opportunities to be sharpened, refreshed, and re-anchored in your calling.
3. We Create Space for Strategic Relationships
The most effective ministry often happens not just from the pulpit, but from relationships that happen in the margins—over coffee, lunch, or shared moments between sessions. At Foundations, you’ll have the opportunity to connect, collaborate, and build friendships with others who are facing similar opportunities and challenges. Breakout groups and networking opportunities are intentionally designed to foster meaningful connection. Ministry leadership doesn’t have to be lonely. You’ll leave with more than notes—you’ll leave with connections and convictions anchored in the gospel.
4. We Refocus on What Matters Most
Foundations is not about adding another item to your calendar. It’s about creating margin to refocus your heart and mind on Jesus and His mission. As leaders, we need moments where we pull back from the day-to-day and ask again: Are we building in the right direction? Are we still centered on Christ? Foundations is designed to remind us all that the centrality of the gospel is the non-negotiable starting point for effective, enduring ministry.
So why should you come to the Foundations Conference?
Because the gospel is worth standing for—together.
Because your church needs you healthy, hopeful, and connected.
Because we are better when we strive side by side.
Mark your calendar for October 9–10 in Oshkosh. We look forward to seeing you there.
Visit https://www.convergegreatlakes.org/foundations-2025 for details and registration.
