JANUARY 20 - 24 | DENVER
Midwinter
Theme: Follow Me
Join us for Midwinter 2025—a time to connect with colleagues, explore fresh ideas, and experience renewal in ministry. This conference offers space to reflect, share, laugh, and be inspired as we follow Jesus together.
Our theme, “Follow Me,” calls us to embrace Jesus’ invitation to discipleship—a journey that transforms our lives, calling, and service to others. Together, we’ll explore how following him leads to a life of purpose, sacrifice, and hope.
As a denomination, we’ll spend the year deepening our understanding of discipleship through new resources, prayer, and mutual encouragement. As we travel this faith-filled journey together, we seek to joining God’s mission to see more disciples among more populations in a more caring and just world.
We can’t wait to journey with you. To God be the glory!
Worship
In our general sessions, you’ll worship, learn from, and be inspired by thought leaders, and be renewed in your passion for continuing the mission God has placed before you.
Breakouts
Breakouts are midsized sessions that offer in-depth dialogue and content from pace-setting leaders across various fields. These spaces are designed to give attendees personal access to these leaders and prepare you to return to your ministry context equipped and restored.
Relationships
If you have never been to a Midwinter, this will be a time to meet colleagues and develop vital relationships. We know we need one another because we are better together. We look to build connections and faith in each other as we work side by side in ministry together.
Local Experiences
In addition to the Midwinter conference programming, explore our host city Denver, and all that it has to offer.
Accommodations
Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel
1550 Court Place, Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (303) 893-3333
Guest rooms (King and Double Double) are available at a special rate of $176/night plus taxes.
Travel
United Airlines Discount
We are excited to partner with United Airlines to offer discounted airfare for Midwinter 2025.
- Booking Online: Click here and use promo code ZQ3D338721 to make your flight reservations. MileagePlus members can earn miles when booking with this code.
- Phone Reservations: Call United Meetings Reservation Desk at (800) 426-1122 (Monday–Friday) for assistance. Be sure to mention the discount code ZQ3D338721. International travelers can contact their local United Reservation Desk. Booking fees are waived for this conference.
Airport Transportation
The Sheraton Denver Downtown does not provide airport transportation, so we recommend making your own travel arrangements. Here are some convenient options:
- Denver Airport Rail: For an easy and affordable option, take the A Line train from Denver International Airport to Union Station in downtown Denver. From there, hop on the Free MallRide to reach the Sheraton. Travel time: 37 minutes. Cost: $10 each way.
- Blue Shuttle: Blue Shuttle offers $25 shuttle rides per person each way to and from the Denver airport with no surge pricing. Book online or call 720-792-8355.
- SuperShuttle: Click here to receive a 5% discount on SuperShuttle services with the code KHC6Y. This discount is available at all airports served by SuperShuttle, valid 5 days before and after the conference.
Registration
2025 Registration Rates
Early registration through November 22, 2024. Regular registration after November 22, 2024
| Midwinter 2025 | Early | Regular |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Registrant | $395 | $440 |
| Additional Registrant | $365 | $410 |
| Retiree, Spouse, Bivocational | $225 | $275 |
| NPTS/CHET Student | $225 | $275 |
For those using their 2025 budget, a non-refundable $100 deposit can be made by November 22, 2024, to lock in early bird rates for MWPrimary and MWAdditional registrations. The remaining balance is due by January 8, 2025. Any accounts not paid in full by this date will be charged the regular rates (less the deposit).
For registration assistance, please contact Jill Ulven at (773) 299-7274.
Scholarships
Scholarships are available for credentialed, active Covenant pastors, global personnel, and chaplains (both military and institutional) in good standing, as well as retired Covenant pastors who are not actively serving in a paid ministry position.
- All applicants: A $100 non-refundable deposit is required.
- MWPrimary and MWAdditional Registrants:
- Register by November 22: Only the $100 deposit is required.
- Register after November 22: The full registration amount must be paid. If approved, you will receive a reimbursement (minus $100).
- MWSpecial Registrants:
- The full amount must be paid upfront. If approved, you will receive a reimbursement (minus $100).
Please submit your scholarship application by December 6, 2024. Full-time military chaplains must submit applications by December 13, 2024. Approved scholarships cover the remaining balance of your Midwinter registration, and additional funds may be mailed post-conference. For questions, please contact the Ordered Ministry.
Policies
Cancellation Policy
To cancel your registration, please email events@covchurch.org. Cancellations cannot be accepted via phone.
- Deposit-only registrations: Non-refundable.
- Full-paid registrations cancelled before January 15, 2025: $50 cancellation fee.
- Cancellations after January 15, 2025: $100 cancellation fee.
Substitutions
Substitutions are allowed from the same church or institution, provided the fee remains the same for the new registrant. To make a substitution, email events@covchurch.org with the new registrant’s details (name, address, phone number, email).
Image Policy
By attending Midwinter, you grant the Evangelical Covenant Church permission to use your image, likeness, or voice in recordings or promotions for this or future events.
Schedule
| Monday, January 20 | |
|---|---|
| 7:00 am – 10:00 pm | Registration Open |
| 8:00 am | Covenant Orientation / Ignite / Equip Classes Begin |
| 8:00 am | Safe Sanctuaries Training |
| 9:45 – 11:00 am | Women of Color Clergy Gathering |
| 11:15 am – 12:45 pm | Advocates for Covenant Clergy Women (ACCW) Luncheon |
| 1:00 - 4:00 pm | Women in Leadership |
| 1:00 - 4:00 pm | COMS Training |
| 1:00 - 4:00 pm | Compelling Preaching Cohorts |
| 5:00 - 7:00 pm | Dinner Break |
| 7:00 pm | Opening Worship Session |
| 9:00 pm | Conference Receptions |
| Tuesday, January 21 | |
| 7:30 am | Hosted Breakfasts |
| 9:30 am | Morning Worship Session – Presidential Update |
| 11:15 am – 1:30 pm | Lunch Break/Hosted Meals |
| 2:00 - 4:00 pm | All Midwinter Breakout |
| 4:00 pm | ACCW Reception |
| 5:00 - 6:30 pm | Dinner Break |
| 7:00 pm | Evening Worship Session - Communion |
| 9:00 pm | Antiracism Discipleship Pathways Reception |
| Wednesday, January 22 | |
| 7:30 am | Hosted Breakfasts |
| 9:30 am | Morning Worship Session |
| 11:15 am – 12:45 pm | Lunch Break/Hosted Meals |
| 1:00 – 2:30 pm | Breakout Session 1 |
| 3:00 – 4:30 pm | Breakout Session 2 |
| 5:00 - 6:30 pm | Ethnic Associations/Dinner Break |
| 7:00 pm | ALIPE Service/Reception |
| Thursday, January 23 | |
| 7:30 am | Covenant Kids Congo Walk for Water |
| 9:30 am | Morning Worship Session |
| 11:15 am – 1:30 pm | Lunch Break/Hosted Meals |
| 2:00 – 4:00 pm | All Midwinter Breakout |
| 5:00 – 6:30 pm | Dinner Break |
| 7:00 pm | Evening Worship Session |
| Friday, January 24 | |
| 9:30 – 11:30 am | Morning Worship Session |
Meet Our Speakers
Breakout Sessions
Monday, January 20
Women Only
Women of Color Clergy
9:45 – 11:00 am
Join your fellow Women of Color Clergy sisters for a restorative time of holistic care for your body, mind, and soul. This gathering offers a space to reconnect, recenter, and recharge as we step into the new year together. Come and embrace this opportunity to nurture yourself and be renewed for the journey ahead!
Women in Leadership
1:00 – 4:00 pm
Join a powerful gathering of women leaders to be celebrated and encouraged in our shared calling to lead, preach, and advocate for a more just and flourishing society. Together, we’ll worship, pray, laugh, and share in meaningful moments. You’ll hear from gifted speakers, engage in breakout conversations, and leave feeling renewed and empowered. Whether you’re a volunteer, lay leader, bivocational, licensed, commissioned, or ordained, all women are welcome!
Specialized Training
Safe Sanctuaries Training
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
This one-day intensive training will equip you to pastorally support those who have experienced trauma from the injustice of abuse. Together, we’ll explore a theology of abuse, understand the impact of trauma on victims and survivors, and learn how to collaborate with community advocates for holistic healing. You’ll gain practical tools for responding to those who share their stories and best practices for offering spiritual and emotional support. Join us to discover how your church can be a place of healing and safety, embodying God’s shalom. In-person only.
Ramelia Williams
Committees on Ministerial Standing (COMS) Discussion and Training
1:00 – 4:00 pm
This discussion is to train, resource, and equip members of conference committees on ministerial standing to be more effective interviewers of credentialing candidates. Come and receive updates, discuss common problems and issues, and share best practices.
Danielle Ng
Compelling Preaching Cohorts
Compelling Preaching Cohorts
Monday 1:00 – 4:00 pm
Wednesday 11:15 am – 4:30 pm
We are excited to offer three tracks beginning at Midwinter 2025, all focused on nurturing the inner life of the preacher. When we are at peace and aligned with the Spirit, we can preach the good news in more compelling ways. These cohorts will explore how our interior lives and tools like the Enneagram and Myers-Briggs influence our preaching voice.
Meetings will be held on Monday and during Wednesday lunch and breakout sessions, with follow-up sessions via Zoom for six months. Select your cohort when registering.
TRACK 1 – Preaching Every Week
Designed for pastors with less than five years of experience as lead, solo, or primary preaching pastors, this cohort will help you develop healthy rhythms for consistent weekly preaching. Over six months, participants will receive spiritual direction, learn from diverse, highly qualified preachers, and engage in a process for reflective preaching feedback tailored to their ministry context. The cohort is led by Rev. Tammy Long, lead pastor of South Bay Community Church in Fremont, CA, president of the Advocates for Covenant Clergywomen, and a seasoned spiritual director.
Track 2 – Preaching Refresh
Open to both frequent and occasional preachers, this cohort focuses on nurturing the inner life of the preacher. Over six months, participants will engage in spiritual direction, learn from diverse, highly qualified preachers, and develop a process for receiving reflective feedback on their preaching within their ministry context. The cohort is facilitated by Rev. Melissa Wall, a seasoned pastor with nearly 20 years of experience as a lead preaching pastor, currently serving at Anchor Covenant Church in Lake Geneva, WI.
Track 3 – Preaching from the Second Chair
This cohort is designed for associate pastors looking to develop their preaching voice when they’re not the primary preacher. Along with a focus on nurturing the inner life of the preacher, this group will explore how to cultivate a distinct voice in the “second chair” role. Over six months, participants will engage in spiritual direction, learn from highly qualified and diverse preachers, and develop a process for reflective preaching feedback within their ministry context. The cohort is led by Rev. Dr. Chris Wall, associate pastor of the Evangelical Covenant Church in Attleboro, MA, and recent Doctor of Preaching graduate from Gordon-Conwell Seminary.
Tuesday, January 21
All Midwinter Breakout
Tuesday Afternoon with Harris III
2:00 – 4:00 pm
We’re thrilled to welcome Harris III to this year’s Midwinter conference. He will guide ministry leaders in deepening their discipleship and helping their congregations grow closer to Christ. In today’s distracted and cynical culture, finding creative ways to engage with the gospel can be challenging. Harris will show us how the truth of the gospel offers freedom from deception, inviting us into a life of awe, wonder, and purpose in Christ.
With over 20 years of experience, Harris has helped leaders worldwide embrace the abundant life God intends. His unique approach inspires audiences to move beyond fear and cynicism and step into a life filled with faith, hope, and love.
Wednesday, January 22
All Afternoon
JumpStart Workshop (English)
1:00 – 4:30 pm
JumpStart is an interactive learning opportunity that offers a formational, devotional, and practical approach to personal finances. Participants will assess their current financial health, explore how their personal money beliefs influence financial decisions, and develop a comprehensive financial action plan. This workshop is the first of three sessions, with the following two taking place on Zoom in the weeks after Midwinter. Completing the cohort qualifies participants for personal financial coaching and provides an opportunity to apply for a Consumer Aid Grant. It is open to single and married clergy, with couples encouraged to participate together.
Karen and Ben Ingebretson
JumpStart WorksHop (Spanish)
1:00 – 4:30 pm
JumpStart es una oportunidad de aprendizaje interactivo que ofrece un enfoque formativo, devocional y práctico para las finanzas personales. Los participantes evaluarán su salud financiera actual, explorarán cómo sus creencias personales sobre el dinero influyen en sus decisiones financieras, y desarrollarán un plan de acción financiero integral. Este taller es el primero de tres sesiones, con las dos siguientes a realizarse por Zoom en las semanas posteriores a Midwinter. Completar el cohorte califica a los participantes para recibir asesoría financiera personal y les brinda la oportunidad de solicitar una Subvención de Ayuda al Consumidor. Está abierto a clérigos solteros y casados, y se anima a las parejas a participar juntas.
Dany Flores
Offered Twice (Repeated)
Honest Conversations on the Unique Place of the Mosaic in God’s Mission
1:00 – 2:30 pm or 3:00 – 4:30 pm
Participate “in the round” as we listen in on an honest conversation between several mosaic pastors and leaders. We’ll wrestle candidly with questions about the role of their churches and context in local and global mission today. What are the realities and obstacles when “mission” has been both a source of pain and blessing? How does being part of the non-majority culture provide unique contributions and opportunities to engage God’s mission today? Join us in discerning and learning together how we can join God as a mosaic of Mission Friends to engage cross-culturally here and around the world.
Grace Shim and Panel
Healthy (Relational) Systems in the Church
1:00 – 2:30 pm or 3:00 – 4:30 pm
Churches are made up of interconnected systems, where changes in one area impact the whole. This workshop will explore key aspects of family systems theory, including managing anxiety and understanding relational triangles, to help strengthen church relationships and maintain focus on vitality and mission during times of change or crisis.Dawn Taloyo
Cultivating Leadership Resilience
1:00 – 2:30 pm or 3:00 – 4:30 pm
Leadership can be hard. Interpersonal conflict, financial strain, ministry challenges, ever-changing circumstances, insufficient support, unrealistic expectations, and more can conspire to make leaders weary, confused, and discouraged. But it doesn’t have to be this way! Like other leadership competencies, resilience can be intentionally developed. Rev. Jean Cheng Gorman, PsyD, draws from experience as a psychologist, pastor, and spiritual director to present a holistic approach to cultivating resilience in leadership. This didactic and experiential workshop will equip you with practical tools to grow your capacity for resilience and to thrive as a leader.
Jean Cheng Gorman
Welcoming the Stranger: Connecting with and Loving Your Immigrant Neighbors
1:00 – 2:30 pm or 3:00 – 4:30 pm
How is your church responding to God’s call to welcome and serve immigrant neighbors? Inspired by Matthew 25:31-46, this workshop, in partnership with Immigrant Connection and Love Mercy Do Justice, will explore how the Church can embody God’s love through welcoming refugees and immigrants. Through powerful stories and practical steps, participants will learn how to create pathways of hospitality and belonging for those new to our communities.
Ramelia Williams
Yes She Can: Women in Leadership in the Church
1:00 – 2:30 pm or 3:00 – 4:30 pm
In this session, we will explore the biblical basis for the Covenant’s position on women in leadership. We will also consider healthy ways to engage with people who are resistant to this and how to cultivate a church culture that is authentically supportive of women in leadership. This is an issue that impacts every church and all of us individually in profound ways. We will explore how this is a “gospel” issue, how it influences our identity and relationships, and how it shapes our own discipleship experience.
John Jenks
Partnership & Generosity: Key Elements in Discipleship
1:00 – 2:30 pm or 3:00 – 4:30 pm
A panel of pastors and a superintendent will share what they have learned about effective ways churches can leverage what it means to be Covenant and accomplish more in mission and ministry through the practice of being “in it together”.
Reaching and Unleashing one of the Largest Generations
1:00 – 2:30 pm or 3:00 – 4:30 pm
For the first time in history, a generation is reaching their later years with unprecedented health, vitality, and the potential to make their greatest impact yet. Baby Boomers are turning 65 in record numbers, and they are an essential force for your church and community. Join us to explore how to engage and empower this generation to make a meaningful impact for Christ in their most influential years. Sponsored by Crescendo.
Dr. Amy Hanson
Undercover Visits: Are visitors seeing what you think they are seeing?
1:00 – 2:30 pm or 3:00 – 4:30 pm
Do you ever wonder what a visitor sees when they attend your church for the first time? Chances are a first-time visitor is not seeing your church in the same way that regular attenders do. The National Covenant Properties Real Estate Services team will share their experience doing undercover visits for local churches, highlighting some of the surprising things they have seen. Come and learn how the perception of your church property will help with visitor retention.
Rob Hall, Rollie Persson, Paul Kruit
Community, Communion, and Art: A Time to Reflect, Refresh, and Restore
1:00 – 2:30 pm or 3:00 – 4:30 pm
Join us for a time to reignite joy, beauty, and wonder! Encounter Christ through scripture, communion, and visual art as we explore how God strengthens the church and equips us to reach a world in need. We’ll provide a biblical framework, engage in visio divina (sacred seeing), create art, and share practical ministry resources. Two 90-minute breakout sessions will be offered. Attend one or both.
- Part 1 (1-2:30 pm): Reflection & Communion in the Old Testament
- Part 2 (3-4:30 pm): Restoration & Communion Today
Adrienne Reedy & Barbara Sartorius Bjelland
Flipping the Script on Equipping the Rural Church
1:00 – 2:30 pm or 3:00 – 4:30 pm
In small communities, life is about participation, not spectating—just as Jesus modeled when equipping his followers. This breakout explores how to shift from passive ministry to active, hands-on engagement using the intentionality of Mark 6’s 2×2 model and the equipping process of Ephesians 4:11-12. Learn practical strategies to leverage the participatory culture that already exists in your community.
Jon Dietrich, Tim Shekleton
En Español
Generaciones Unidas: Abriendo Camino para los Líderes del Futuro
1:00 – 2:30 pm
A lo largo de la Biblia aprendemos que los grandes ministerios tienen planes de sucesión. En esta sesión hablaremos sobre cómo entusiasmar a nuestros jóvenes por el ministerio y cómo prepararlos de manera práctica para la entrega del manto.
Abraham Zuniga, Erasmo Zuniga
Construyendo el Futuro: Impulsando a los Líderes del Mañana
3:00 – 4:30 pm
¿Qué dirían tus jóvenes si se les preguntara cómo describirían la cultura de tu iglesia? En esta sesión aprenderemos cómo crear una cultura que impulse a los jóvenes hacia su llamado ordenado por Dios. Como líderes, podemos ser vientos que oponen o que apoyan a nuestros jóvenes, ¿cuál elegirás ser tú?
Abraham Zuniga
Thursday, January 23
All Midwinter Breakout
Thursday Afternoon with John Dickson
2:00 – 4:00 pm
Discipleship is all about following Jesus. We are thrilled to be joined by John Dickson at this year’s Midwinter conference as he helps us explore the intricacies of true discipleship. Throughout his career, John has been seeking ways to promote thoughtful Christianity in doubting times. John has given over a hundred talks a year at conferences, churches, schools, not-for-profits, corporations, and universities around the world. He is fascinated by history and philosophy and what makes people believe and doubt. John will help us see what discipleship can look like today and into the future.
Special Events
Monday, January 20
Advocates for Covenant Clergy Women (ACCW) Lunch – Women and men welcome
11:15 AM – 12:45 PM
Are you an ordained, licensed, commissioned, or credential-seeking sister in ministry? Join us for the ACCW Luncheon! This is a special time to connect with new and familiar faces, celebrate God’s work in and through His daughters, and enjoy rich fellowship. You’ll hear updates from ACCW and have the chance to share ideas and insights as we continue our collective journey forward. While we’ve made significant strides, there is still much to do—so let’s come together, share our stories, and lift each other up. We see you, we hear you, and we’re here for you! Cost: $15
Tuesday, January 21
Crescendo Breakfast
7:30 am
Crescendo helps leaders support, engage, and mobilize adults 60+ to live lives of lasting purpose as disciples of Jesus Christ. The Crescendo team raises awareness of key transitions in aging and offers a holistic growth framework (SPICES) designed for this stage of life. Discover targeted resources and coaching opportunities that can help you make a deeper impact. Reservation required. Cost: $18
Serve Globally Luncheon
11:15 am
Come learn how Serve Globally partners with the global church to share the good news of Christ and empower local communities. During this luncheon, we’ll highlight key resources and opportunities for 2025 to help equip churches to strengthen their missional engagement. Don’t miss this chance to discover how you and your church can make a meaningful impact. RSVP required when registering.
Covenant Chaplains Association (CCA)
11:15 am
All Covenant chaplains are invited to attend the CCA Annual Meeting during lunch on Tuesday. Please select CCA as your lunch meeting option when registering. Don’t forget to bring your own lunch—beverages will be provided. For those unable to join in person, a virtual option is available. Contact Ken Morse to register for virtual participation.
Church Planters Luncheon
11:15 am
Calling all church planters and those passionate about advancing God’s kingdom! Join us for a time of connection, celebration, and vision casting. Together, we’ll reflect on the great work God is already doing in our movement and look ahead with anticipation for even greater things to come. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect and be inspired. RSVP required when registering.
ACCW Reception – Women and Men Welcome
4:00 pm
Join ACCW as we celebrate the growing number of credentialed clergywomen in the Covenant and acknowledge the ongoing need for cultural change in our churches to fully reflect our denominational ethos. We invite all men and women to attend, hear exciting updates—including our new Ambassadors program—and discover how you can be part of God’s work through His gifted daughters. Be challenged, encouraged, and inspired as we shape the future of ministry together.
Antiracism Discipleship Pathway Reception
9:00 pm
Join fellow participants—past and present—of the Antiracism Discipleship Pathway (ADP) for an enriching time of fellowship, learning, and visioning. Dr. Janette H. Ok, Associate Professor of New Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary and co-architect of The New Testament in Color, will be our featured speaker, offering valuable insights and resources. This gathering will also be a space to share testimonies, prayer requests, and explore next steps for the ADP community. Light refreshments will be provided. Cost: $15.
Wednesday, January 22
Racial Righteousness Breakfast
7:30 am
Join fellow leaders for a meaningful breakfast focused on racial righteousness and networking with peers committed to this biblical calling in their ministries. Dr. Janette H. Ok, Associate Professor of New Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary and co-architect of The New Testament in Color, will be our featured speaker. You’ll also hear inspiring testimonies and learn about new ministry initiatives. This gathering will equip you with practical tools and valuable relationships to strengthen your leadership when you return home. Cost: $20.
Paul Carlson Partnership Luncheon
11:15 am
Join us for lunch featuring great food, Karawa coffee, and a brief update on our latest initiatives at the Paul Carlson Partnership. It’s a great opportunity to connect and catch up with your PCP friends. We look forward to seeing you there! Cost: $15.
Becoming a Spiritual Director
11:15 am
Interested in becoming a spiritual director? Come learn more about North Park Theological Seminary’s spiritual direction certificate and how you can learn the art and practice of being a spiritual director. Lunch is provided. RSVP during registration.
Missional Vitality Luncheon
11:15 am
Join the Missional Vitality team for a time of learning, fellowship, and encouragement. Discover key resources to strengthen your church’s health and vitality, and hear inspiring testimonies from pastors who have seen transformation through these tools. Enjoy a delicious lunch, connect with fellow leaders, and gain valuable insights to help your church thrive.
African American Ministers Association (AAMA)
5:00 pm
The AAMA warmly invites Black pastors, leaders, seminarians, and denominational staff to our annual Business Meeting. This will be a time to connect, reflect on the past year, and look ahead to the future of our association. After the meeting, join us for a fellowship gathering to continue building relationships. Cost: $25.
AAMA members, please ensure your membership dues are current to fully participate in discussions and voting. Dues can be paid online.
Asociación Latina de la Iglesia del Pacto Evangélico (ALIPE)
5:00 pm
Asociación Latina De La Iglesia Del Pacto Evangélico (ALIPE) links pastors and leaders of Latino congregations through connection, fellowship, and resourcing.
Los miembros de ALIPE deben pagar sus cuotas por adelantado para tener voz y voto en la reunión de negocios. Las cuotas se pueden pagar a través aquí.
Covenant Asian Pastors Association (CAPA)
5:00 pm
CAPA provides fellowship, mentorship, and support for Asian North American pastors and ministry leaders within the Evangelical Covenant Church. Join us for our annual business meeting, followed by dinner at a local restaurant. This event is open to clergy and ministry leaders of Asian descent or those serving predominantly Asian congregations. Cost: $25 (payable with Midwinter registration).
To participate in voting, ensure your CAPA dues are paid at ecccapa.org. For questions, email us. We look forward to seeing you!
Indigenous Ministers Association (IMA)
5:00 pm
The Indigenous Ministers Association (IMA) is a connecting point for Indigenous people in the Covenant, with the desire to share the voices of all our people of Turtle Island. IMA is a community that reflects the Creator from the Indigenous perspective and partners with other ethnic associations, regional conferences, and the Covenant on issues that impact Indigenous people in Canada and the U.S. Join us for our Annual Business Meeting followed by fellowship and dinner offsite.
Thursday, January 23
Covenant Kids Congo Walk for Water
7:30 am
Join us at Midwinter for the Covenant Kids Congo Walk (or run) for Water, powered by World Vision. Lace up your shoes and make a meaningful impact by helping provide clean water to those in need in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Your $25 registration supplies clean water for one person in DR Congo. Be sure to pick up your t-shirt and race bib at the Midwinter registration desk.
Political and Hospitable: Pastoring Congregations Through Partisanship
11:15 am
How can Covenant pastors guide their congregations with integrity, grace, and wisdom during politically charged times? Join North Park Theological Seminary for a lunch discussion addressing the unique challenges and opportunities of pastoring in an election year, especially in a deeply polarized environment. Explore strategies for navigating political tensions, fostering healthy dialogue, and modeling Christian hospitality in your community. Moderated by Dean Dennis R. Edwards, the panel will feature seminary faculty and Covenant pastors serving in diverse settings. Lunch will be provided.
Association of Covenant Spiritual Directors Lunch
11:15 am
All spiritual directors including those in training who are attending Midwinter are invited to join us for lunch in recognition of your important ministry. We will have a chance to connect share stories and hear some updates on the ministry of spiritual direction across the Covenant. Those who are interested in learning more about the ministry of spiritual direction are also welcome to attend. Lunch is provided.
Town & Country Lunch
11:15 am
Join us in honor of all pastors serving in town and country settings, recognizing how much your ministry matters to God. Learn about new developments from the Town and Country Commission. RSVP during registration.
Additional Events
NextGEN Conference
January 18 – January 20
The NextGen Conference is designed for all children, youth, and young adult ministry leaders to find connections, develop leadership skills, be inspired, and be empowered to continue investing in the next generation. You can expect dynamic teaching, passionate worship, breakout sessions led by pace-setting leaders, and opportunities to develop vital relationships.
Covenant Living Communities & Services Chaplains
January 19, 1:30 pm – January 20, 12:00 pm
A meeting of education and inspiration specifically designed to support the work of Covenant Living Communities & Services chaplains and to update them on current initiatives. Registration information will be sent to all Covenant Living chaplains separately. Please contact Cameron Wu-Cardona with any questions.
Association of Covenant Spiritual Directors Retreat
January 19, 4 pm – January 20, 2.30 pm
Join the Association of Covenant Spiritual Directors for a pre-Midwinter retreat focused on Jesus’ invitation: “Come to me…” (Matthew 11:28). In a world full of distractions, this retreat offers a time for silent prayer, contemplation, and group spiritual direction, along with fellowship over meals. Open to all spiritual directors, members, and non-members alike.
Location: Glen Eyrie Castle, Colorado Springs, CO
Cost: $50 (subsidized by Make & Deepen Disciples)
Transportation: Provided from Denver Airport (1/19, 2 PM) and to the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel (1/20, post-retreat).
Association of Covenant Camps & Conference Centers (ACCCC)
January 21, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
ACCCC staff and leaders will hear President Tammy Swanson-Draheim’s presidential update, followed by the ACCCC annual meeting and professional development. Option to add Monday evening’s meal and programming, when registering. Cost $99.
Throughout the Conference
North Park Theological Seminary (NPTS) Classes and Cohorts
Seminary and Covenant Orientation students attending Midwinter have the opportunity to take NPTS courses during the event. To participate, students must register for their desired class through North Park Theological Seminary and separately register for Midwinter using the Midwinter registration form. During Midwinter registration, students can also add special meals, receptions, and association meetings to their schedule.
Class Offerings:
- FLDC 7315-J1: Intercultural Development Module (Thursday afternoon-Friday morning)
- FLDC 5300-J1: Vocational Excellence (Monday-Thursday)
- ECCO 5010-J2: Vocational Excellence (Pre-Midwinter; Thursday-Sunday)
- ECCO 5020-J1: History of the Covenant (Monday-Friday)
- ECCO 5030-J1: Theology of the ECC (Monday-Friday)
- ECCO 5040-J1: Mission and Ministry in the ECC (Monday-Friday)
- BIBL 5220-J1: Old Testament 2 (Monday-Friday)
- HSTY 6300-J1: History and Theology of the ECC (Monday-Friday)
Financial Conversations
Come with financial questions, concerns, and goals. Bring any statements or documents pertinent to this confidential conversation with a financial professional from Covenant Trust Company. You will receive tools and new ideas to help you move forward with confidence and a clearer vision for the present and your future.
Appointments Available:
- January 20 | 1:00 – 4:00 pm
- January 21 | 11:30 am – 1:30 pm; 4:00 pm
- January 22 | 11:30 am
- January 23 | 11:30 am – 1:30 pm; 4:00 pm
Spiritual Direction
Tuesday – Thursday
Spiritual direction is a ministry of listening, discernment, and prayer in a confidential setting of encouragement and compassion. Trained spiritual directors are available at Midwinter for a 50-minute session. Capacity is limited. Please consider your week’s commitments when registering and choose a time that best fits your schedule.
For details, contact Christina Burrows.
Conversation Hour with Tammy Swanson-Draheim
An opportunity to meet, ask questions, and have casual conversations with President Tammy Swanson-Draheim in a small group setting. See opportunities throughout the week available on the registration form.
Meet with Superintendents and Conference Staff
If you would like to make an appointment with a conference superintendent or staff during the Midwinter Conference, please contact them prior to the event.
Meet with Ministerium Leadership
If you would like to make an appointment with an officer from the denominational Ministerium during Midwinter, please contact them prior to the event. There will be limited times available at a designated location at the hotel to meet.
