The York University Bible Department has announced the inaugural Equip conference, a one-day event designed to empower Christians to grow and strengthen their local congregations. Slated for Tuesday, March 14, 2023, on the York University campus, Equip will feature church leaders from Nebraska, Tennessee and Texas. Equip derives its name from Ephesians 4:12, “...to equip His people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up...”

Dr. Garrett Best, Bible department chair, emphasizes, “This conference is not just for ministers, but for all Christians who want to see God’s church grow and to learn how to better serve right where they live.” Cost for the conference is $25, which covers breakfast, lunch, and conference resources. 

Presentations include “Hope for Small Churches” by Dr. Evertt Huffard, professor emeritus, Harding School of Theology, and “Strengthening Marriages and Families in our Churches” by Glenn Dallmann, East Hill Church of Christ Worship and Family Minister. Jim Tuttle, retiring preaching minister at Heartlands Church in Lincoln, Neb, will share experiences from his 30-plus years in church work. Breakout sessions will cover many relevant topics

A full list of speakers and classes can be found at here.

Equip takes place in connection with two other York University events. On the eve of the conference, Monday, March 13, the university will host Holy Ghost Stories Live by Justin Gerhardt. In this in-person experience of his popular Holy Ghost Stories podcast, Justin’s retellings of Old Testament events lead to unforgettable encounters with the God who reveals Himself in His stories. Admission to Holy Ghost Stories Live is included with the Equip Conference registration fee. Justin and his wife, Jennifer (JL), will also lead three sessions at the conference.

Equip will conclude with the Clayton Museum of Ancient History’s annual Ides of March dinner, at which Dr. Huffard will present, “Antiquities: the Real, the Replicas, and the Restored.” Tickets for the dinner are $25 each and are a separate cost from the conference. Seating for the Ides of March dinner is limited and early registration is recommended.

Register at york.edu/equip for Equip, Holy Ghost Stories Live, and the Ides of March. 

If you are unable to attend Equip but would like to register for the Ides of March event only, go to york.edu/ides. Holy Ghost Stories Live will have a general admission fee of $5 to pay at the door.