Refresh Conference 2025
Registration is open!
Plan to join us February 4-7, 2025, for the tenth annual Refresh Conference at Faith Baptist Bible College & Theological Seminary. Due to space limitations, only registered guests can attend this conference. More information can be found in our FAQ section.
This conference is for all Christian leaders and their spouses. Bring your entire ministry team! Camp directors, pastors, and missionaries will all benefit from this conference!
Leadership:
Pure Heart. Skilled Hands.
The 2025 Refresh Conference will address the theme Leadership: Pure Heart. Skilled Hands. This theme comes from Psalm 78:70-72. The goal of the conference is to offer pastors and their wives, missionaries, and ministry leaders encouragement and spiritual nourishment by creating space for sweet fellowship with like-minded servants of Christ and inspirational, thought-provoking preaching and practical teaching.
We are going all out to make this tenth conference our best. You will not want to miss this event!
Costs and Registration
| By December 6 | After December 6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Ministry Leader Registration | $175 | $200 |
| Leader and Spouse Registration | $250 | $300 |
| Children (0-5) (Per Family) |
$25 | $50 |
| Children/Teens Age 6-12th grade (Per child) |
$50 | $75 |
| Exhibitor Table | Silver Table: $200 + registration cost Gold Table: $250 + registration cost Platinum Table: $300 + registration cost |
Deadline for exhibitor registration is November 22. |
| Advertising | Half Page: $100 Full Page: $175 PowerPoint: $75 |
Deadline for advertiser registration is November 22. |
Schedule
The schedule is specially designed to allow busy Christian leaders to rest and spend time alone with their spouses. The general sessions and workshops offer you and your spouse a chance to soak in God’s Word while being taught from experienced ministry leaders.
Note: In previous years, we were able to offer the evening general sessions for free to individuals who were only able to attend a small portion of the conference. This year due to the growth of the conference attendance and our student population, only registered guests will be able to attend the conference sessions. Due to space limitations, only registered guests can attend this conference.
Tuesday, February 4
12:00–7:00 PM | Registration
2:00–4:00 PM | Pre-Conference Seminars
6:30–8:00 PM | General Session
Wednesday, February 5
9:00–10:00 AM | General Session
10:00–10:20 AM | Break
10:20–11:30 AM | General Session
11:45 AM–12:45 PM | Workshops
11:30 AM–1:30 PM | Lunch at local restaurants or Benson Hall
2:00–3:00 PM | Workshops
3:15 PM | Campus Tour; Visit Exhibits
5:15–6:30 PM | Banquet
6:30–7:30 PM | General Session
7:30 PM | Northland and Pillsbury Alumni and Friends Receptions
Thursday, February 6
9:00–10:00 AM | General Session
10:00–10:20 AM | Break
10:20–11:30 AM | General Session
11:45 AM–12:45 PM | Workshops
11:30 AM–1:30 PM | Lunch at local restaurants or Benson Hall
2:00–3:00 PM | Workshops
3:15 PM | Campus Tour; Visit Exhibits
6:30–8:00 PM | General Session
8:15 PM | Faith, Denver, and Omaha Alumni, and Friends Reception
Friday, February 7
9:00–10:00 AM | General Session
10:00–10:20 AM | Break
10:20–11:30 AM | General Session
General Session Speakers
Dr. Chris Anderson
Chris Anderson served as a pastor for twenty-five years—first as a church planter in Ohio and then as lead pastor in the Atlanta, Georgia, area. He served as a missions catalyst for Biblical Ministries Worldwide for three years and now works full-time as president of Church Works Media, which he co-founded in 2006. Chris is the author of multiple books, including The God Who Satisfies, Panosian, Theology That Sticks, and The Scandal of Schism. He is a contributing author and editor for Church Works Media’s popular Gospel Meditations devotional series; a frequent speaker in churches, colleges, and conferences; and a well-known hymn-writer of songs like “His Robes for Mine” and “I Run to Christ.” Chris and his wife Lori have four lovely daughters, two sons-in-law, and a beautiful granddaughter.
Dr. Douglas Brown
Dr. Douglas Brown is the Academic Dean of Faith Baptist Theological Seminary and a senior professor within the seminary. Dr. Brown received his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts from Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary, his Master of Divinity from Central Baptist Seminary, and Ph.D. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Dr. Brown has many years of experience as a youth pastor and assistant pastor in Iowa, Minnesota, and Illinois. He is an avid golfer and enjoys traveling. He and his wife, Tricia, live in Ankeny and have four children.
Dr. Daniel K. Davey is currently the President and Professor of Bible Exposition at Virginia Beach Theological Seminary. He has taught students and led the seminary since its inception in 1995. In 2015, after 33 years of pastoral ministry at Colonial Baptist Church, Dr. Davey resigned from the senior pastorate to focus his full-time efforts on the presidency of Virginia Beach Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Martha, reside in Chesapeake, Virginia. They have four grown children and six grandchildren.
Dr. David Doran
Dr. David Doran is the senior pastor of Inter-City Baptist Church and President of Detroit Baptist Theological Seminary. He serves as the Chairman of the Practical Theology Department and teaches the core pastoral theology courses in the M.Div. program.
Dr. Doran received a B.A. from Bob Jones University and both the M.Div. and Th.M. from DBTS. He earned his D.Min. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.
Over several decades at ICBC, Dr. Doran has conducted an effective expository preaching and teaching ministry, established Grace Baptist Mission, and expanded outreach through campus evangelism and discipleship, mission conferences and more.
Dr. Doran is supported faithfully by his loving wife, Claudia.
Dr. Les Ollila
Les Ollila is the president of Building Great Leaders, an organization that provides instruction, encouragement, and resources for Christian leaders. Prior to that, he served as the president of Northland Baptist Bible College in Dunbar, Wisconsin, for 18 years. Les has authored and co-authored several books including God’s Glory in Clay Pots and A New Normal. He also has a television show for Building Great Leaders through VCY Television. Les also currently serves as the chaplain at Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankeny, Iowa.
Pastor Kurt Skelly
Kurt Skelly has been the pastor of Faith Baptist Church in Fredericksburg, Virginia, since 2016. Previously he served for 20 years as the pastor of Harvest Baptist Church in Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania, and has served in pastoral ministry since 1991. A featured speaker at Bible conferences, revivals, and college campuses, across the United States and abroad, Kurt is known for his energetic, balanced, and Bible-centered preaching and for his love for the Lord and people.
In addition to pastoral ministry, Kurt serves the chairman of the Board for Veritas Baptist College, owner of Land of the Bible Tours, and host of the Everyday Truth Podcast. Kurt and his wife, Wanda, were married in 1988. They have four adult married children who serve in ministry and eight precious grandchildren whom they love dearly.
Dr. Dean H. Taylor
Dr. Dean H. Taylor is Professor of Pastoral Studies and Chair of the Ministries Division at Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankeny, Iowa. After serving in pastoral ministry for twenty-five years, Dean’s mission now is to equip a new generation of pastors, be a friend to men in ministry, and encourage biblical church growth.
Dean’s book The Thriving Church: The True Measure of Growth was published in 2019. His new book, Pathway To Pastoral Ministry: First Steps for Young Men, is scheduled for fall 2024 publication. Dean and his wife Faith have four adult children
and four grandchildren. He enjoys cycling, trout fishing, and beekeeping.
Dr. Jim Tillotson
Dr. Jim Tillotson holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Ministry degrees from Northland Baptist Bible College,
and received an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Bob Jones University in 2016.
Prior to coming to Iowa, Dr. Tillotson helped plant Meadowlands Baptist Church in Edmonton, Alberta where he served as the senior pastor for 18 years. During that time, he led the church in planting three new churches and revitalizing a church as well as starting a Christian School and helping start a Bible Institute.
In 2015, God called Dr. Tillotson to serve as the President of Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary in Ankeny, Iowa. During his time as President God has blessed Faith in providing growth both numerically and financially. He also
has led the school through two building projects and the celebration of Faith’s 100 year anniversary.
He and his wife Joan have three children and three sweet grandchildren.
Dr. Dennis Wilkening
Dr. Dennis Wilkening is a current faculty member and the chair of the biblical counseling department at Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankeny, IA. His wife, Lori, serves alongside him as the Assistant Dean of Women. From 2012-2023 he was the Lead Pastor of First Baptist Church in Colville, WA. He is best known for his passion for evangelism and discipleship. Under his leadership, his rural church in the Pacific Northwest tripled in size, completed two building expansions, and added a full-time Youth Pastor and Children’s Director. When they are not on campus training students for local church ministry you will find
them enjoying the great outdoors. His hobbies include riding his Harley Davidson Road Glide, golfing with his wife (yes, she can beat him), fly fishing, and hiking. They have two sons Collin (Oregon) & Clayton (Washington State). He also serves as
the Assistant Pastor of Counseling at Ankeny Baptist Church
Featured Musicians: Faith Baptist College Ensembles
Faith offers opportunities for ministry through music in a variety of vocal and instrumental ensembles. Under the direction of Dr. Christopher Ellis and Mrs. Sherri Nicholson, Faith ensembles participate in on-campus concerts, and some travel to churches and ministries near and far to serve the Lord through special music and personal testimonies. Recently, ensembles have also sung the national anthem at professional sporting events, participated in a live performance of an oratorio in New York City, and traveled to Germany to encourage believers through song.
Workshop Leaders
Dr. Chris Anderson
Chris Anderson served as a pastor for twenty-five years—first as the founding pastor of Tri-County Bible Church in Northeast Ohio and then as lead pastor of Killian Hill Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia. He now serves as Vice President of Global Opportunities for Biblical Ministries Worldwide— preaching and writing on the Great Commission, training churches to be effective senders, and challenging believers in churches, camps, conferences, and colleges to embrace the cause of worldwide evangelism. He is the Director of a new church-planting initiative: the Healthy Church Network.
Chris is the author of four books—The God Who Satisfies, Panosian: A Story of God’s Gracious Providence, Theology That Sticks: The Life-Changing Power of Exceptional Hymns, and an forthcoming biography of Astronaut Jeff Williams. He is the President of Church Works Media and is a contributing author and editor for CWM’s popular Gospel Meditations devotional series. He is perhaps most recognized as a hymn-writer, composing lyrics for “His Robes for Mine,” “I Run to Christ,” “My Jesus, Fair,” and over sixty others. He recently earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from The Master’s Seminary. Chris and his wife Lori have four beautiful and godly daughters and an amazing son-in-law.
Dr. Douglas Brown
Dr. Douglas Brown is the Academic Dean of Faith Baptist Theological Seminary and a senior professor within the seminary. Dr. Brown received his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts from Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary, his Master of Divinity from Central Baptist Seminary, and Ph.D. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Dr. Brown has many years of experience as a youth pastor and assistant pastor in Iowa, Minnesota, and Illinois. He is an avid golfer and enjoys traveling. He and his wife, Tricia, live in Ankeny and have four children.
Charlie Carter
Charlie is a native Iowan who grew up in Williamsburg. He heard the gospel first as a high school student and was saved when he was sixteen. He attended Faith in his undergrad and masters studies and is currently pursuing a D.Min degree at Faith Baptist Theological Seminary.
Charlie teaches as an adjunct faculty member in the college, primarily in the Local Church Discipleship Ministry program. Most of his classes focus on discipleship and sanctification within the local church. He leads the men’s discipleship ministry at Maranatha Baptist Church in Grimes, IA. He and two other teachers co-host The Thinklings Podcast, a weekly show about
books, ministry, and Scripture. Their goal is to help listeners learn to renew their minds rather than entertain themselves with aimless scrolling through social media. His recent book, Mapping Discipleship, was recently published by Faith Publications.
Dr. Alan Cole
Alan D. Cole, M.Div., Th.M., Th.D., is a Senior Professor of Bible and Theology at Faith Baptist Bible College where he also chairs the Bible-Theology Division. He has taught in Brazil and Peru and served as an interim pastor in southern Iowa. He and his wife Nancy have been married for thirty-four years.
Dr. Daniel K. Davey is currently the President and Professor of Bible Exposition at Virginia Beach Theological Seminary. He has taught students and led the seminary since its inception in 1995. In 2015, after 33 years of pastoral ministry at Colonial Baptist Church, Dr. Davey resigned from the senior pastorate to focus his full-time efforts on the presidency of Virginia Beach Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Martha, reside in Chesapeake, Virginia. They have four grown children and six grandchildren.
Dr. David Doran
Dr. David Doran is the senior pastor of Inter-City Baptist Church and President of Detroit Baptist Theological Seminary. He serves as the Chairman of the Practical Theology Department and teaches the core pastoral theology courses in the M.Div. program.
Dr. Doran received a B.A. from Bob Jones University and both the M.Div. and Th.M. from DBTS. He earned his D.Min. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.
Over several decades at ICBC, Dr. Doran has conducted an effective expository preaching and teaching ministry, established Grace Baptist Mission, and expanded outreach through campus evangelism and discipleship, mission conferences and more.
Dr. Doran is supported faithfully by his loving wife, Claudia.
Dr. Paul Hartog
Paul Hartog serves as the Professor of Theology for Faith Baptist Theological Seminary. He himself completed graduate work at Faith Seminary, as well as Iowa State University, St Andrew’s Theological College, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and Loyola University Chicago. He also serves as the Director of Youth Ministries in his home church of Maranatha Baptist in Grimes. He enjoys traveling with his sweetheart and family, visiting coffeehouses across the Des Moines metro, e-biking to work, playing racquet sports, and researching both theological and information ethics as well as the history and theology of early Christianity.
Dr. Mike Hartwig
Dr. Mike Hartwig is a Financial Representative and Director of Training for Financial Architects located in Des Moines. He has a B.A. from Faith Baptist Bible College, a M.Div. from Grace Seminary, Winona Lake and a Ph.D. in Educational Studies from Trinity University in Deerfield, IL.
Mike has served as a pastor in Iowa, Wisconsin and Indiana. He has taught as an adjunct professor for Mid-Western, Grace College, Park University, Rockhurst University and Trinity.
In 2000 he and his wife, Lee Ann, were recognized at the White House for their work with at-risk couples. By working with over 1,000 couples to serve as mentor couples, they discovered that a source of consistent conflict was finances. God used that work to launch into a ministry that helps couples maximize their resources.
Mike and Lee Ann live in Altoona, IA and have been married 42-years. They have three kids and nine grandkids.
Dr. Marty Herron
Biography
Dr. Marty Herron is a graduate of Bob Jones University and of the Camp Director’s Institute of THE WILDS. He spent several years traveling throughout the US with a revival team before moving to Northland Camp and Conference Center in 1982. While at Northland, Dr. Herron served in a variety of capacities including Camp Director, Dean of Students, and Vice President of Student Affairs, along with teaching courses in the College.
In July 2000, the Lord called Dr. and Mrs. Herron and their family to Guam as the Senior Pastor of Harvest Baptist Church and Harvest Ministries. Harvest is a multi-faceted ministry in a poly-cultural island in the Pacific.
In October of 2018, the Herrons embarked on their third ministry when God called them to serve as Executive Vice President of Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary in Ankeny, IA. The burden of this move has been to help train ministers to go out into full time ministry internationally and take the Word to the World.
Dr. Herron and Tami have been happily married since 1979 with four grown, married children and sixteen grandchildren with four more in Heaven.
Tami was saved at ten years of age at a Bible-believing church in Muncie, Indiana. She has been married to Dr. Marty Herron since 1979, and they have four grown, married children and sixteen grandchildren with four more in Heaven.
Since October 2018, Dr. Herron has served as the Executive Vice President of Faith Baptist Bible College & Theological Seminary in Ankeny, Iowa. Through 40+ years of ministry, Tami has taught ladies’ Bible classes, counseled ladies, and hosted others in their home, and continues to do so at Faith. Tami’s heart’s desire from the years of ministry has been invested in teaching and training women to become a Titus 2 woman.
Carl Kerby
Carl Kerby’s passion is to proclaim the authority and accuracy of the Bible and to engage the minds and hearts of believers and unbelievers so that they may experience the realities of the Word of God. Whether Carl speaks to youth or adults, large or small crowds, at churches or schools, he has a way of connecting and engaging with everyone. From all ages, all walks of life and wherever they are on their faith journey, Carl reaches people with biblical truths, providing knowledge and reasons why we can trust God and His Word.
Carl is a much sought-after speaker, both in the U.S. and abroad. He has spoken in Bermuda, Canada, England, Greece, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Mexico, the Philippines, Tanzania and Wales. As a founding Board Member of Answers in Genesis, Carl served there for more than 15 years before co-founding the apologetics ministry, Reasons for Hope (rforh).
Carl has had many roles in his life, son of a professional wrestler, air-traffic controller at O’Hare International Airport, founding board member and speaker for Answers in Genesis), but his most cherished roles are as a husband to his wife, Masami, a father to his children, Alisa and Carl Jr., and a grandfather to Trey, Naomi, Mari, James and J.T.
Dr. Keith Kobelia
Keith Kobelia is a graduate of Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary in Ankeny, IA (B.A., 1996; M.A., 1997; M.Div., 1999), Central Baptist Theological Seminary in Plymouth, MN (Th.M., 2003), and Dallas Theological Seminary in Dallas, TX (Ph.D. in Bible Exposition, 2014). The focus of his dissertation research was the Thessalonian letters and biblical eschatology.
Dr. Kobelia serves as Associate Professor of Bible and Theology at Faith Baptist Bible College and as an adjunct in the seminary. He has taught at Faith since 2014, teaching in the areas of Bible, theology, and history. He also serves in various faculty-related administrative roles at Faith.
Dr. Kobelia resides in Ankeny, Iowa with his wife, Elizabeth, and their six children: Luke, Christina, Timothy, Bethany, Karis, and Benjamin. The Kobelias are active serving the Lord as part of the ministry of Faith Baptist Church in Cambridge, Iowa. Dr. K enjoys spending time with his family, reading, jogging, and working on small projects at home.
Dr. Les Ollila
Les Ollila is the president of Building Great Leaders, an organization that provides instruction, encouragement, and resources for Christian leaders. Prior to that, he served as the president of Northland Baptist Bible College in Dunbar, Wisconsin, for 18 years. Les has authored and co-authored several books including God’s Glory in Clay Pots and A New Normal. He also has a television show for Building Great Leaders through VCY Television. Les also currently serves as the chaplain at Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankeny, Iowa.
Barb Reynolds
Barb Reynolds has served as a Pastor’s wife alongside her husband, Dennis, for over 40 years. God first called them to serve at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Des Moines, Iowa in 1974 and they served there for 22 years. In 1996, God called them to serve at Nevada Baptist Church in Nevada, Iowa, where they have joyfully served every since.
Through her years of experience as a pastor’s wife, Barb has had many opportunities to minister in the lives of women and other ministry wives. She especially enjoys teaching the ladies Sunday School class, directing the Children’s Christmas Program, and speaking at retreats and conferences from time to time. She and her husband Dennis have 4 adult children and 11 grandchildren.
Pastor Kurt Skelly
Kurt Skelly has been the pastor of Faith Baptist Church in Fredericksburg, Virginia, since 2016. Previously he served for 20 years as the pastor of Harvest Baptist Church in Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania, and has served in pastoral ministry since 1991. A featured speaker at Bible conferences, revivals, and college campuses, across the United States and abroad, Kurt is known for his energetic, balanced, and Bible-centered preaching and for his love for the Lord and people.
In addition to pastoral ministry, Kurt serves the chairman of the Board for Veritas Baptist College, owner of Land of the Bible Tours, and host of the Everyday Truth Podcast. Kurt and his wife, Wanda, were married in 1988. They have four adult married children who serve in ministry and eight precious grandchildren whom they love dearly.
Andy Stearns
Andy is a native Iowan who grew up in Urbandale. He was raised in a Christian home and was saved at an early age. He attended Faith in his undergrad, where he met his first wife, Robyn. In 2023, Robyn died of cancer and he was widowed with two children. In 2024, God brought Melissa into his life and they were married in the summer. They both enjoy books, coffee, and being outdoors.
Andy teaches in the Bible department of the college. Along with Bible and Greek classes, he teaches Western Civ and Apologetics. He and two other teachers co-host The Thinklings Podcast. Each week they talk about books, ministry, and always a passage from the Scriptures. Their goal is to help listeners learn to renew their minds rather than entertain themselves with aimless scrolling through social media. Professor Stearns also blogs at AndyStearns.net, where you can read Robyn’s story.
Dr. Dean H. Taylor
Dr. Dean H. Taylor is Professor of Pastoral Studies and Chair of the Ministries Division at Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankeny, Iowa. After serving in pastoral ministry for twenty-five years, Dean’s mission now is to equip a new generation of pastors, be a friend to men in ministry, and encourage biblical church growth.
Dean’s book The Thriving Church: The True Measure of Growth was published in 2019. His new book, Pathway To Pastoral Ministry: First Steps for Young Men, is scheduled for fall 2024 publication. Dean and his wife Faith have four adult children
and four grandchildren. He enjoys cycling, trout fishing, and beekeeping.
Faith Taylor
Faith serves as Professor of Women’s Ministries at Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankeny, Iowa, where her husband is the Professor of Ministerial Training. She received her B.A. in Church Ministries from Bob Jones University and her M.A. in Biblical Studies from Faith Baptist Theological Seminiary. Her years of experience as a pastor’s wife, mother, counselor, and friend have opened her heart to minister to the needs of many. She loves to teach ladies by explaining the practical applications of God’s Word and sharing with them His working in her own life. Faith is the author of A Look Within, a women’s Bible study book and Pray for Him, a prayer booklet for ministry wives. She and her husband, Dean, have 4 children and 4 grandchildren.
Joan grew up in a Christian home and accepted Christ as her Savior at age 16. She gave her life to Him at that time and is very thankful for His faithful work in her life. She loves to share with women how amazing God is and to encourage them to enjoy growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Joan earned a B.S. in Secretarial Science from Northland Baptist Bible College (where she met her husband, Jim) and an M.A. in Theological Studies from Faith Baptist Bible College.
In 1997, God called Joan and Jim to Edmonton, Alberta, Canada where Jim served as the pastor of Meadowlands Baptist Church for 18 years. In 2015, God led them to Faith Baptist Bible College where Jim serves as the President. Joan enjoys working part-time in the seminary office and ministering to the students encouraging them in their walk with God. She and Jim enjoy having people in their home and sharing God’s love with them.
Joan and Jim have three children – Annie, Tim, & Beth – and three lovely grandchildren. When she is not ministering in her local church and at Faith, Joan loves spending time with Jim, hanging out with her children (and their spouses) and grandchildren, gardening, hiking/biking, playing pickle ball, playing the piano, reading, and cooking.
Brian Trainer Bio
For over thirty years, Brian has served on pastoral staffs, within the administration at various Christian universities and seminaries, and on multiple overseas fields. He currently serves as the department head for Missions at Faith and as an adjunct faculty member at several overseas colleges. Brian loves all things related to expositional preaching, global missions, church revitalization, and the English Premier League.
Dr. Dennis Wilkening
Dr. Dennis Wilkening is a current faculty member and the chair of the biblical counseling department at Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankeny, IA. His wife, Lori, serves alongside him as the Assistant Dean of Women. From 2012-2023 he was the Lead Pastor of First Baptist Church in Colville, WA. He is best known for his passion for evangelism and discipleship. Under his leadership, his rural church in the Pacific Northwest tripled in size, completed two building expansions, and added a full-time Youth Pastor and Children’s Director. When they are not on campus training students for local church ministry you will find
them enjoying the great outdoors. His hobbies include riding his Harley Davidson Road Glide, golfing with his wife (yes, she can beat him), fly fishing, and hiking. They have two sons Collin (Oregon) & Clayton (Washington State). He also serves as
the Assistant Pastor of Counseling at Ankeny Baptist Church
Pre-Conference Seminars and Workshops
Seminary Q&A: A Baptist Evaluation of Reformed Theology
What is Reformed Theology and how should we evaluate it?
In this workshop, we will engage in a conversation to explain and evaluate Reformed Theology from a Baptist perspective. Come prepared with questions! Our seminary faculty will attempt to provide biblical and theological answers.
Faith Taylor
1 st Hour: Leading a Bible Study 101
A key component of ministering to women in our churches is providing Bible studies specifically for them. This workshop will focus on the goals for a women’s Bible study, a process for choosing a study with various format options, and tips for navigating the challenges inherent in leading a Bible study.
2 nd Hour: Protecting Your Priorities and Coping with Criticism
Ministry wives are faced with many challenges, including prioritizing responsibilities and responding to criticism. We will seek to answer the following questions in this session:
- How can we establish and maintain appropriate priorities as ministry helpers?
- How should we respond to criticism, whether it is of our husbands or of us personally?
Dr. Chris Anderson – Theology That Sticks: The Value of Hymns in the Life of the Church
There are thousands and thousands of worship songs available to us today. Yet, we may use five on any given Sunday. How do we choose exceptional songs? How can we make sure that we rely on Scripture rather than mere personal preference? And how can we design the service to be as effective as possible?
Dr. Dan Davey – Romans and the Will of God
How can we discern God’s will when it is not fully knowable to us? In Romans, Paul references God’s will five times, underscoring both God’s sovereignty and the mystery surrounding His plans. We will explore how Paul’s insights can guide believers in understanding and seeking God’s will in practical, faith-driven ways.
Dr. Marty Herron – Juggling Jobs in The Ministry
At times, it can feel like we are part of a ministry circus, constantly juggling multiple roles and responsibilities. How well are you managing your job performance in the midst of chaos? Together we will review three essential secrets to help you complete your work effectively and efficiently.
Mr. Carl Kerby – Amazing Evidence for God – Respiratory System
Did you know that each of us has a “working escalator” inside our bodies? While the entire human body is incredibly intricate, Carl will focus on just one amazing system—the respiratory system. Come and discover what that means and how it proves God’s existence!
Mrs. Joan Tillotson – What Do You Want?
What do you want to get out of life? How do you satisfy your desire for significance and security? What things do you feel you need for life to be worth living? In this workshop, we will study Psalm 63 and discuss how God calls us to find our security in Him.
Mr. Brian Trainer – Missions That Matter: Rethinking Mission’s Philosophy, Strategy, and STM’S
In the busyness of ministry, missions can often be reduced to a routine of sending a check, skimming a prayer letter, and celebrating once a year. Yet missions are a vital part of church life, and the local church should serve as the selector, sender, and sustainer for global servants. To reclaim this central role, let’s explore ways to revitalize missions and reshape our church’s strategy.
Dr. Doug Brown – Praying with Paul
How is your prayer life? In this workshop, we’ll explore the Apostle Paul’s prayers and his requests for prayer throughout his New Testament letters. By examining how Paul’s theology influenced his prayers, we’ll gain insights and practical applications to deepen our own prayer lives.
Charlie Carter – Reoderant: Allowing the Aroma of Christ to Drive Discipleship Success
Does your discipleship at your church stink? Join us as we discuss Paul’s philosophy of ministry in 2 Corinthians 2 and apply principles to discipleship ministry. The main focus will be on cultivating a faithful response to the Holy Spirit which will result in genuine fruit and character.
Michael Hartwig – Thriving Financially While Serving in Ministry
If you feel like you don’t make enough money or if you struggle to save up for retirement, then this workshop is for you! We will focus on Biblical and practical strategies to help you and your church family become better stewards of the wealth that God has given to you.
Mrs. Tami Herron – Secure In My Savior
How can you be secure in an ever changing, fast-paced world? In all seasons of a woman’s life, she is tempted to be discontent, distant, and discouraged. Join other ladies in this session as we learn to be secure in Christ, who is our “freedom, fulfillment, and fruitfulness” in life.
Mr. Andy Stearns – Anchors in The Storm: Trusting the God Who Gives and Takes Away
When the waves of suffering land against your life, what do you cling to? In this session, we will study the character of God and the difference between goodness and kindness.
Dr. Dean Taylor – Pathway to Pastoral Ministry: Helping Future Pastors Find Their Way
The next generation of pastors should come from your churches. In this workshop, we will discuss key influences that encourage young men to go into ministry and ideas for intentionally developing young men for ministry. Some material in this workshop is drawn from Dean’s newly published book, Pathway for Pastoral Ministry: First Steps for Young Men.
Dr. Alan Cole – Fan the Flame: Rekindling the Joy of the Ministry
Individuals serving in vocational ministry lead busy lives and are routinely confronted by multiple problems. Servants of the Lord can become so consumed by the struggles of ministry that they forget the blessings and joy of the ministry. In this session, we will focus on areas to “rekindle” our joy in serving the Lord.
Dr. Dave Doran – Instructions for Getting Along with One Another
How do believers with differing personal convictions maintain unity within their congregations? In this workshop, we will observe how Paul answered this question for the congregation in Rome and make applications for believers today.
Dr. Marty Herron – Learning the Art of Hospitality: Magnets that Draw People to Your Ministry
In ministry, the emphasis is not solely on what you do, but also significantly on what you choose not to do. We will examine ten bad habits that can impede the growth and effectiveness of churches. Additionally, we will explore how to practice exceptional, biblical service that reflects the heart of Christ.
Barb Reynolds – The Dart Situation
Do you ever feel like you are just busy serving Jesus, but those “fiery darts” keep coming at you? Join us as we discuss the “dart situation” and focus on how God tells us to handle them.
Dr. Dennis Wilkening – Insights on Initiative
Williams James said, “Nothing is so fatiguing as the hanging on of an uncompleted task.” Initiative is often the difference between success and failure. We will examine how to avoid procrastination and unlock the potential of initiative.
Dr. Paul Hartog- AI and Ministry: Possibilities and Pitfalls
The rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) has captured global attention, especially after ChatGPT’s launch in 2022. However, ethical and theological reflection has lagged behind. How should we approach the integration of AI in ministry, considering both its potential benefits and the ethical challenges it presents?
Mr. Carl Kerby – There’s No Evidence for the Resurrection…DeBunked!
Does any evidence beyond the Bible support the occurrence of Christ’s resurrection? The concise response is… YES! However, you’ll have to join us for the comprehensive presentation to delve into the details.
Dr. Keith Kobelia – Serving God in A Difficult Ministry: Lessons from the Life of Moses
We all face difficulties in ministry, but God calls us to remain faithful. The life and ministry of Moses reveals several principles that can help sustain and encourage us when we face challenges in ministry.
Dr. Les Ollila – Barnabas – The Encourager
Mentoring is a vital part of ministry life and requires a deep level of commitment. As we look at the life of Barnabas, we will study his pattern for mentorship as he patiently invested in a young man who eventually wrote one of the gospels.
Pastor Kurt Skelly – Saying the Hard Things
What biblical principles apply to confrontation of a fellow believer? What are the dangers of unbiblical confrontation or, even worse, no confrontation at all? Join us as we discuss this unpalatable–yet necessary–component of leadership.
Mrs. Faith Taylor – Miriam: Talented but Tainted
What can we learn from the life of Miriam that can help us guard our hearts for effective ministry? God has entrusted each of us with gifts and abilities that equip us for the ministry He has called us to, but our ministry endeavors are too often accompanied by sins of the flesh that lead to ministry failure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the registration fee include?
The registration fee includes:
- All conference sessions
- All conference materials
- Access to the hospitality room with a wide variety of complimentary snacks and drinks
- Wednesday banquet
Note: In previous years, we were able to offer the evening general sessions for free to individuals who were only able to attend a small portion of the conference. This year due to the growth of the conference attendance and our student population, only registered guests will be able to attend the conference sessions.
Are meals included with my registration?
Your registration includes the Wednesday night banquet.
Lunch tickets may be purchased when you register for the conference. A limited number of lunch tickets are available for purchase due to capacity issues. Unused meal tickets will not be refunded.
Ankeny also has many available restaurant options in the area for your enjoyment.
Can I bring my children to the conference?
Refresh Conference is designed to be a conference for ministry couples. With that in mind, we strongly encourage husbands and wives to attend the conference without their children. However, if the only way to attend the conference is to bring your children with you, please register them when you register for the conference.
Child care is only provided for ages 0-5 years old. Child care is limited and is offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. If older children attend the conference, they will need to sit with their parents in the
sessions.
Cost for children 0-5
- By December 6: $25 per family
- After December 6: $50 per family
Cost for children 6-18
- By December 6: $50 per child
- After December 6: $75 per child
A note to parents from Dr. Jim Tillotson: “It is really important for ministry couples to set aside time to reconnect. While I know it can be difficult, I strongly encourage you to find family members, friends, or a family in your church to watch your kids so that you and your spouse can enjoy this time away together without distractions.”
What is the cancellation and refund policy?
If you realize that you are unable to attend Refresh Conference after registering, here are the options available to you:
- Full refund (must cancel by January 21, 2025 to receive full refund).
- Transfer your paid registration to another ministry couple.
- Transfer your registration payment to your registration for Refresh 2026.
Please email Bri Harrier at harrierb@faith.edu if you would like to cancel your registration.
What is the dress code?
Most attendees dress business casual.
Do you have hotel recommendations?
Here is a list of hotels who have discounted-rate agreements with Faith Baptist Bible College. Please be sure to mention Faith Baptist Bible College when making reservations in order to secure the discounted rate (Blackout dates apply)!
What if I am traveling internationally to the conference?
For international travelers, if an invitation letter is needed for visa purposes, it will be sent upon request after we receive your registration and payment.
Any other questions?
For any other questions, contact Bri Harrier.
- Phone: 515.964.0601
- Email: harrierb@faith.edu
Exhibitors and Advertisers
We invite fundamental, Bible-believing organizations to display at the Refresh Conference, so you can interact with Christian leaders and students about your ministry or product. We also invite exhibitors as well as those who cannot exhibit to place an ad in our conference book. Please have the artwork for the ad copy to us by November 22, 2024. Send ad artwork to palsr@faith.edu.
Advertising Information
Advertisement Cost
Full-Page Ad
- 5″ x 11″ *Please submit ads to be 8.75″ x 11.25″ without crop marks. Include a half inch area around all edges that does not have text.
- Exhibitor—$175
Half-Page Ad
- 5″ x 5.5″ *Please submit ads to be 8.75″ x 5.625″ without crop marks. Include a half inch area around all edges that does not have text.
- Exhibitor—$100
File Format
- Only electronic art in a PDF or EPS file may be submitted. All ads will be printed in color.
PowerPoint Ad
- Slide size: Standard sizing of 1024px (w) x 768px (h). The 4:3 (regular) layout in PowerPoint or Google Slide.
- Send as a PDF, PPT, or Google Slide.
- Font size: No lower than 24 points, anything lower will be too small to be reasonably readable. A safe range is 28 to 32 points and titles being at 36 to 44 point size.
- Other tips: Use contrasting colors; select clean, simple fonts, nothing overly scripted and can be easily read from a distance and quickly unless used decoratively rather than information-based.
- Advertisers: Included with ads
- PowerPoint Ad Only: $75
Reserving Advertisement Space
- You may purchase an ad in the conference booklet by making the appropriate selection on the conference registration form.
- Please reserve your ad space and pay your advertiser fee by November 22 by completing the online registration form. Registration opens October 1.
Size And File Format
Full-Page Ad
- 5″ x 11″ *Please submit ads to be 8.75″ x 11.25″ without crop marks. Include a half inch area around all edges that does not have text.
- Exhibitor—$175
Half-Page Ad
- 5″ x 5.5″ *Please submit ads to be 8.75″ x 5.625″ without crop marks. Include a half inch area around all edges that does not have text.
- Exhibitor—$100
File Format
- Only electronic art in a PDF or EPS file may be submitted. All ads will be printed in color.
PowerPoint Ad
- Slide size: Standard sizing of 1024px (w) x 768px (h). The 4:3 (regular) layout in PowerPoint or Google Slide.
- Send as a PDF, PPT, or Google Slide.
- Font size: No lower than 24 points, anything lower will be too small to be reasonably readable. A safe range is 28 to 32 points and titles being at 36 to 44 point size.
- Other tips: Use contrasting colors; select clean, simple fonts, nothing overly scripted and can be easily read from a distance and quickly unless used decoratively rather than information-based.
- Advertisers: Included with ads
- PowerPoint Ad Only: $75
Exhibitors Information
Exhibits
All of the exhibits will be located in the Nettleton Center, making them easily accessible to all attendees. Each exhibit space will include an 8′ table. Space is limited, so please register early.
We have three levels of exhibitor tables.
- Silver Level: Located in Alumni Hall. These spaces will receive a good amount of interaction with attendees.
- Gold Level: Located in the Gym, where the general sessions will be held. These spaces will receive a high level of interaction from attendees.
- Platinum Level: Located in the Hospitality Room, where the coffee shop is located. These spaces will receive the highest level of interaction with attendees.
We will assign table locations based on your selected level.
Materials
If you would like to send any of your materials to Faith Baptist Bible College ahead of time, please address it with the following information:
ATTN: FBBC Refresh Conference
“Your name/ Ministry Name”
1900 NW Fourth Street
Ankeny, IA 50023
All mailed materials must arrive on campus no later than January 28, 2025
Cost
The cost for exhibitor tables is below:
- Silver level table: $200 (plus registration cost)
- Gold level table: $250 (plus registration cost)
- Platinum level table: $300 (plus registration cost)
The total registration price will increase after the early registration deadline on December 6. This exhibitor fee includes:
- Conference registration for one person
- Wednesday banquet
- Access to the hospitality room
- A gift card to the Faith bookstore
Note: An additional exhibitor who is a spouse will pay only $75 ($100
after December 6). An additional exhibitor who is not a spouse will pay
the regular registration fee of $175 ($200 after December 6). If you
need electricity, we will make every attempt to provide it for you.
Registration and Deadline
REGISTRATION
When registration opens click on the “Register Now” button at the top of this webpage. Make sure to click the “I am an exhibitor” checkbox underneath your name on the registration form.*
*We wholeheartedly welcome personnel from other colleges and universities to attend our Refresh Conference! However, we currently do not allow advertising or exhibit space for other institutions of higher education.
DEADLINE
The deadline to register for an exhibitor table is November 22. All exhibitors will be included in the conference book.
Individual Prize Drawings
Prize drawings are a great way to increase traffic to your exhibit! They are also an effective and natural way to accumulate names and contact information. Each exhibitor can choose to hold their own individual prize drawings at their table. Display your prize at your table to draw interest and create conversation throughout the week.
Each exhibitor who wants to hold individual drawings at their table should indicate on the registration form that they would like to do so. Exhibitors who choose to participate will be provided with a container, pens, and paper for the drawings. Attendees can stop by and submit their names at each table in order to enter the drawing. Each exhibitor will establish their own rules about when and how they will draw the prize winner(s) and contact them to pick up their prizes
Set-Up and Tear-Down Times
You may set up your exhibit on Tuesday, February 4, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The exhibits open at 5:30 PM that day, and the evening service begins at 6:30 PM. You may tear down Friday, February 7, after 11:30 AM.
