Conference Hosts First-Ever Church Growth Summit Series to “Ignite Growth and Inspire Change”

The Kentucky-Tennessee Conference launched its first-ever Church Growth Summit series this October, 2025, drawing hundreds of pastors, ministry leaders, and church members to three regional gatherings designed to “ignite growth and inspire change.” The summits were held in Lexington, Ky., Nashville, Tenn., and Memphis, Tenn., throughout the month of October.

The initiative, led by Anton Kapusi, the conference’s Church Growth and Stewardship Director, aimed to bring training and renewal closer to local congregations.

“We wanted to impact the conference in the most effective way,” Kapusi said. “Many leaders cannot travel to our other retreats [at Indian Creek Camp], so we decided to meet them where they are.”

Each summit featured presentations and workshops centered on revitalizing congregations and leading a mindset shift toward mission-driven ministry.

“All areas of our conference are looking for a culture change,” Kapusi said. “That means moving from a more traditional mindset to one that connects with the culture we live in today.”

The Lexington program included sessions on discipleship and stewardship, while Nashville’s focused on evangelism and apologetics to equip members in an increasingly secular environment. In Memphis, speakers addressed what healthy churches look like and how hospitality and friendship evangelism can lead to growth. All presentations were translated to Spanish.

Kapusi reported that the summits drew more than 200 attendees at each location, including dozens of pastors who traveled from across the region. Each event concluded with a panel discussion and a digital feedback survey designed to inform future training.

Kapusi said the summit comes at a crucial time as many congregations are seeking ways to grow stronger and more engaged in their communities.

“Do we need change, inspiration, some new flame to ignite us? Definitely,” Kapusi said. “My prayer is that people take away a new, inspiring view that we can do church differently. Don’t be satisfied with your current situation. Challenge yourself, test yourself, and see where you are, then start to change.”