Recently I had the privilege of writing a series of columns for The Christian Index related to a breakout session I am leading during the upcoming GO Georgia conference. The title of my session is “Budget with Purpose” and is one of over 100 breakout sessions available to conference attendees. I was humbled by the opportunity to write for such a distinguished publication as well as for the invitation to lead a breakout session at this important conference.
For readers unfamiliar with GO Georgia, it is a total church leadership equipping event sponsored by the Georgia Baptist Mission Board. It is a two-day training event that includes some amazing keynote speakers, 100+ topics including age-graded ministry, stewardship & generosity, technology & communications, worship ministry, facilities maintenance & planning, financial compliance, church planting, civic/moral concerns & social issues…well, you get the idea.
There is a lot being covered which means there is literally something for EVERY member of the local church, especially the leadership of our churches! I have no idea how many people are signed up to attend but I do know this is a big event for Georgia Baptists. There are two dates and two locations to choose from: First Baptist Church Jonesboro August 16-17, 2019 and First Baptist Church Statesboro August 23-24, 2019. Most of the churches in Georgia are within a few hours of one of these locations.
My breakout session is in the 7:15 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
What Your Church Budget Really Is
The Spending Philosophy of Your Church
Why Your Church Should Use a Zero-Based Budget
Church Budget Categories and Helpful Ratios
I know there are conferences throughout the year and most pastors and church staff receive a lot of reminders about conferences they have attended in the past or information about other conferences they may (or may not) be interested in. I get stuff in the mail and email weekly and to be honest, I wish I could go to more of them. Like you though, my calendar stays pretty full and my budget is limited. There are only so many events I can attend even if I want to attend more!
Having said that, I do make it a point to attend at least one conference a year where I can continue to learn, grow, and network with like-minded people. GO Georgia rings all of those bells. Let me encourage you to consider adding this conference to your list of events. August is a busy month for our churches as summer draws to a close and the kids head back to school. As you get settled back into regular programming, consider investing in your ministry by attending GO Georgia at one of these great churches next month. I hope to see you on Friday night at one of these events!
Blessings,
Chris