Home » General » Lay Leadership Summit 2026

Lay Leadership Summit 2026

We are stronger together when we are working together.

“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10a, 12 (ESV)

What is the Lay Leadership Summit?

From rural to urban ministries, small to large congregations, and whether you are new to church leadership or a seasoned veteran, we are grateful for each of our lay leaders.

With the theme “Together Towards Tomorrow,” the inaugural Lay Leadership Summit held in 2024 sought to gather lay leaders from all parts of the District to worship our Lord, build one another up in our given roles, and provide best practices in order to better equip you to effectively fulfill your service to our Lord and His people. We are blessed to continue this gathering.

 

2026 Lay Leadership Summit

The 2026 Lay Leadership Summit will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at Walther Christian Academy (900 Chicago Ave., Melrose Park, IL 60160).

This summit is designed to bring together lay leaders from all parts of the District to:

  • Worship our Lord
  • Build one another up in our given talents
  • Provide best practices for effective service
  • Provide practical application across a number of disciplines

This year’s keynote presenter will be Rev. Dr. Reed Lessing.

Our Lay Leadership Summit workshops will have options ranging from best practices in congregational administration to the latest in healthy small church ministry ideas.

Registration-TBD

 

  • Consider carpooling as you are able. Due to expected high attendance, parking will be at a premium.
  • Light breakfast items will be available at check-in.
  • Lunch is included (please indicate special dietary needs during the registration process.).
  • Coffee and water will be available. However, it is a long day, so please consider bringing your own refillable water bottle or other beverages as you prefer.
  • You will again be able to interact with multiple Recognized Service Organizations (RSOs) before, during, and after the Summit.

Please see additional helpful information below:

Agenda

Workshop Descriptions-TBD

During registration, you will be asked to select the workshop sessions you would like to attend. If you are registering a GROUP, please be prepared to select workshop sessions for each attendee.

PLEASE NOTE: We understand that some registrants may experience a “time out” when registering a group. If you are having difficulty, please reach out to the District office for a code which allow you to register in smaller batches. Please contact Sue Green (sue.green@nidlcms.org or 708-223-3116), Ann Ciaccio (ann.ciaccio@nidlcms.org), or call the main District office number (708-449-3020).

REGISTER HERE-Coming soon

Join us for this enriching and empowering event. Let’s journey together towards a stronger and more encouraged tomorrow!

Questions? Email office@nidlcms.org.

 

 

WELLNESS: Promoting and encouraging health and vitality in congregations, schools, ministries, professional workers and lay-leaders.