Christian Studies students at Shorter University took part in a dynamic three-day training event for youth ministers. The Southeast Conclave 2016, held recently in Chattanooga, offered students the opportunity for networking and to receive relevant training and exposure to valuable resources in youth ministry.

Pictured above from left are: Dr. Brent Baskin, Logan McKenzie, Jack Dodge, Caleb Ward, and Will Lawson.

“Conclave was an opportunity for our students to learn about current youth ministry trends,” said Dr. Brent Baskin, assistant professor of Christian Studies and Youth Ministry at Shorter. “They also had the opportunity to investigate resources in youth ministry and hear from some of the most recognized names in the field.” This year, students heard from speakers including Clayton King, founder of Crossroads, and Dr. Richard Ross, professor of Youth Ministry at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Shorter students who attended the event were Logan McKenzie, of Fort Payne, Ala.; Jack Dodge, of Cartersville, Ga.; Caleb Ward, of Rome, Ga.; and Will Lawson, of Washington, Ga.

McKenzie, a sophomore youth ministry major, was surprised by the amount of youth ministry resources available at Conclave. “Conclave added so much to my youth ministry learning experience,” he said. “I learned from the best in youth ministry. I also was able to bring home resources for the church where I currently serve. I can’t wait to go back next year!”

2016 was the third year Shorter students have attended Conclave. During that time, Baskin has been encouraged by the exposure Shorter’s youth ministry program has received as a result of taking part in the conference.

“Through events such as Conclave, Shorter University students are exposed to biblical teachings that will help them develop as servant leaders, fulfill their roles in society, and help people in every walk of life within their spheres of influence,” said Dr. Earl Kellett, chair of the School of Christian Studies at Shorter.

“Shorter is recognized in the Southeast for its youth ministry program,” Baskin said. “Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) entities and regional ministry organizations recognize the value of students who are equipped with ministry skills. I’m grateful to be associated with a program that disciples our students to grow in their walk with Christ and equips them for youth ministry.”

Southeast Conclave was sponsored by the Baptist Conventions of Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.

Founded in 1873, Shorter University is a Christ-centered, four-year liberal arts university committed to excellence in education. The Princeton Review annually includes Shorter on its list of best Southeastern Colleges. Shorter is a member of the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). The university offers traditional bachelor’s degrees in 40 areas of study, online courses and degree programs, undergraduate programs for working adults, and four master’s programs. Learn more about Shorter at www.shorter.edu.

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