Safe Church at Inspire 2019!

Registration is now open for Inspire 2019 happening in Windsor, ON, August 1-3, 2019!

Inspire 2019 is an event designed specifically for ministry volunteers and leaders from Christian Reformed and Reformed churches across North America. Mary Hulst, Ann Voskamp, Ed Stetzer, and Soong Chan Rah are the featured speakers.

Over three days, people across the church will gather to worship God, build relationships across Christ’s community, and gain tools for offering ministry in your home communities. Safe Church is pleased there will be four workshops looking at practices to make churches safer and free from abuse for all.

Safe Church will also host a gathering on Friday for safe church teams to connect with each other as well as staff. As we are not hosting a separate Safe Church Conference this year, we would love to see you at Inspire 2019! Register before April 1 to receive the early bird rate of $80. Please spread the word!

Friday August 2, 11:30 am - 12:30 pm: Circle of Grace with Brenda Yoder

Find out why the "Circle of Grace" program could be an excellent addition to your church's efforts to keep children and youth safe. Learn about its development, its clinical and spiritual aspects, its objectives and goals, and helpful implementation tips for teachers, parents, and administrators. 

Friday August 2, 11:30 am - 12:30 pm: Digital Trends 2019 - Protecting Kids in an Increasingly Hostile Online World with Chris McKenna

Technology is a great thing, if used responsibly. But, digital issues like pornography, predators, sexting, social media, screen time, cyberbullying, anxiety, and depression concern many families. Although many kids use technology well, how do we prepare them for an increasingly hostile and aggressive digital world? Regardless of your technology aptitude, you will walk away with practical tools for protecting kids and guiding your families through the digital age. 

Friday August 2, 2-3 pm or 3:30 - 4:30 pm: Transforming Conflict with Restorative Practices with Jen Holmes Curran

Conflict is one of our best opportunities for spiritual growth and deepened connection, but all too often we avoid it or watch it explode. Restorative practices can transform conflict so that it can be healing and fruitful instead of destructive. Come experience a restorative circle, and hear about some of the many ways that this simple practice can be used in the life of the church.

Friday August 2, 3:30 - 4:30 pm: Building a Safe Church Team with Bonnie Nicholas and Eric Kas

Over the past few years, sexual abuse and harassment have been all over the media. It is clear that these issues need to be addressed. Knowing exactly what to do and what next steps to take, however, may not be as clear. In this workshop, Bonnie Nicholas and Eric Kas will discuss the basics of forming an effective safe church team. Come learn through discussion and examples what it might look like in your own congregation or classis.