The conference's main speakers were Jon Maurer (pastor of Foothill Vineyard Church, USA), Dr. Tim Riordan (pastor of SonRise Baptist Church, USA), and Dr. Petr Činčala (Director of the Institute of Church Ministry at Andrews University, USA), who serve churches as Natural Church Development coaches.
Practical tools for healthy growth
The training featured a series of practical talks, stories, and inspiring examples from ministry practice. Group discussions on the context of Czech congregations were also an important part of the program. So this wasn't just about theoretical models — the speakers shared personal experiences, tools, and principles that can be applied in local congregations. The atmosphere of the conference was open and interactive, fostering mutual sharing and new relationships among participants from different parts of the country.
Healthy church growth begins with healthy leaders. Numerical growth in congregations is a result of personal growth
Participants took away not only inspiration, new insights, and tools for assessing the health of their congregations, but above all a renewed vision that the church can still grow today — in a healthy way, naturally, and in the power of the Holy Spirit. Many expressed gratitude for renewed motivation for ministry, for practical impulses for their congregations, and for the encouragement that they are not alone on their journey.
"I want to thank you for a wonderful conference," one participant shared her enthusiasm. "It's been a long time since something captivated me like this and filled me with God's energy."
