…since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith…
Hebrews 12:1
You have a story.
You come from a long line of witnesses.
You are building a legacy through your ministry.
Women in Youth Ministry exists to affirm, equip, and elevate women who lead students in faith. Every year, this conference becomes a sacred space where women gather to be reminded: you are not alone. You are gifted. You are called. You are part of something bigger.
This year, our theme is Legacy, inspired by Hebrews 12:1 — “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses…” We believe in the power of the stories we carry, the stories we are writing, and the stories still to come. We believe in honoring those who came before us, supporting one another in the present, and preparing the way for those who will lead next.
At our fourth annual conference, we’ll gather to celebrate how this community has shaped our journeys, and to imagine the impact we’ll leave behind. Through storytelling, immersive prayer stations, creative worship, and maybe even a superhero or two—we will celebrate the sacred legacy of women in youth ministry.
This isn’t just another event. This is a moment in your story.
Sessions Built for YOU
- You’ll hear from a diverse group of women in the trenches of ministry.
- Each session will have a chance for you to ask questions and/or talk about the content at your tables.
- Ever go to a conference and walk away with more problems than solutions? Our sessions will be solutions-based. You’re guaranteed to come back with new, fresh ideas.
Schedules that have FUN
- Fun meet-and-greet Wednesday night to kick off the conference – this year, we encourage people to come dressed as a SHE-ro (a lady hero of your interpretation)!
- Offsite activity in a private venue Thursday night.
- Sessions will include icebreakers & giveaways to take back home!
- Dinner meetups to meet all your internet pals in real life!
- Plenty of snacks & beverages throughout the day, with your choices in mind!
Affordable for ALL
- Lunches & a group activity provided
- Option to sleep in a hotel or in church building, cutting costs.
- Reduced rates for volunteers / volunteer youth pastors
- Many women are at churches that don’t have the big budgets, so we are committed to providing an accessible experience.
- If you need a scholarship, email heather@womeninyouthministry.com
Schedule
Wednesday
6pm: Meet & Greet & Check-in
Thursday
9:00 Opening Worship & Keynote
10:30 Interactive Workshop
12:00 Lunch (provided)
1:00 Workshops
4:00 Break
4:00 Optional Building Tour, Mindful Movement
5:30 Dinner Meetups
7:00 Outing
Friday
9:00 Morning Worship & Keynote
10:30 Interactive Workshop
12:00 Lunch (provided)
1:00 Workshops
4:00 Keynote & Communion Send-off
6: 00 Electives & Dinner Meetups
FAQ
When and where? Tell me more! The Women in Youth Ministry Conference will take place March 4th-6th at First United Methodist Church of Arlington in Arlington, TX. From Wednesday night through Friday night we will have an experience you will likely never forget. We will have a Facebook group for the Conference where you can organize rideshares, hotel sharing costs, and meetups.
What does the cost include? What other costs should I prepare for? The cost includes lunch both days, and a fun outing on Thursday. Please plan to provide your own transportation and lodging, as well as other meals. If you’d like affordable lodging, you can sleep in the church building in a private space that includes showers, available for anyone who’d like to sleep in it. We will also have a Facebook group for anyone who’d like to coordinate carpooling and sharing hotel rooms.
Where is the nearest airport? What hotel should I stay at? If you choose to fly, use either the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) or Dallas Love Field (DAL). Each are located about 20 minutes from FUMC-Arlington. Within minutes of our venue are several hotels; we highly recommend The Rambler Inn, Drury Inn, or Comfort Inn & Suites.
Would I be able to use my continuing education budget for this? Absolutely! Senior Pastors, if you’re reading this because your talented staff member sent it to you, this will be the most important thing she goes to this year. Not only will she learn from others in her position, but she’ll be able to build relationships that last a lifetime. You can’t afford to not send her.
Would I be able to attend if I’m not in youth ministry? We think this conference will be most impactful for anyone in youth, children, college-aged/young adult, or family ministry — whether you are a Director, Pastor, Coordinator, Volunteer, or Administrator.
What are our worship gatherings like?Our worship gatherings celebrate the rich diversity of our community, bringing together women from a wide range of traditions—Pentecostal, Methodist, Episcopalian, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Baptist, Mennonite, and Non-Denominational. You’ll experience a beautiful blend of worship expressions: music that ranges from contemporary praise to traditional hymns, and prayers rooted both in historic liturgy and the spontaneous movement of the Spirit. At times, you may find yourself outside your liturgical comfort zone—and that’s by design. We invite you to embrace these sacred moments, trusting that they are holy and deeply rooted in the vastness of God’s Kingdom.
Will there be a virtual option? There will not be a virtual option, but we will record sessions and may choose to place to place it online for further viewing.
Speakers & Presenters
This portion is being updated and will be complete soon!
Heather Lea Campbell
SHE-EO, Women in Youth Minstry
Keynote: The Legacy We Raise Up
Rev. Joy Gonzalez
Pastor, Lovers Lane UMC
Keynote: The Legacy We Tend
Rev. Dr. Wil Gafney
Professor, Brite Divinity School
Keynote: The Legacy We Tend
Sponsors & Partners
If you’d like to be a sponsor, contact kat@womeninyouthministry.com or heather@womeninyouthministry.com
