After attending the National CCDA Conference in 2022 and 2023, I decided to take a break last fall. I'm thrilled to share that this November, I'll be returning to the conference!

The Three Pillars of My Conference Experience

My relationship with the CCDA Conference has always centered around three core values that continue to draw me back:

Learning

The CCDA Conference has consistently been a wellspring of knowledge for me. Each session brings new insights, innovative approaches, and practical Biblical wisdom that I can apply in my work and community. From keynote speakers who challenge conventional thinking to breakout sessions that dive deep into specialized topics, the conference creates an environment where continuous learning flourishes.

The workshops and panels offer not just theoretical knowledge but actionable strategies that have transformed my approach to community development. I've filled notebooks with ideas that led to further conversation and initiatives in my local context. As someone committed to growth, the educational component of the conference remains invaluable.

Connecting

Perhaps what I've missed most during my year away is the rich tapestry of relationships that the CCDA Conference weaves. There's something powerful about being in a physical space with hundreds of like-minded individuals who share passion and vision. These connections have the potential to evolve beyond professional networking into genuine friendships and collaborative partnerships.

Some of my most meaningful collaborations began with a simple conversation over coffee or lunch between sessions. The diversity of perspectives, experiences, and expertise creates a vibrant community that challenges and supports each member. These relationships sustain me throughout the year, providing encouragement during difficult times and celebration during victories. I was especially blessed to travel to the CCDA Conference in 2023 with three other women who attend Orchard Hill Church: Katherine Kukrow, Molly Juza, and Molly Shymansky.

Receiving

In our work, it's easy to focus solely on what we give—our time, energy, and resources. The CCDA Conference has taught me the importance of also being open to receiving. Whether it's receiving inspiration from a powerful testimony, wisdom from a seasoned practitioner, participating in passionate worship, or simply the gift of presence from fellow attendees, these conferences have reminded me that we cannot sustainably pour out unless we also allow ourselves to be filled.

Speaking of tangible gifts, I was especially blessed to receive the gift of a beeswax candle during the 2022 CCDA Conference from some friends, the Sweeney's, that have done CCDA work for many years through Urban Light Ministry in Georgia and Tennessee. I originally met the Sweeney family during the summer of 2015, so it was especially endearing to run into Rustin and Stacy unexpectedly during the Friday night worship session and sit with them during John Perkins' Saturday morning Bible Study.

I've learned over the years that receiving isn't passive but requires intentionality and humility. It means coming with open hands and an expectant heart, ready to embrace the unexpected gifts that emerge from our time together.

Looking Forward

As I prepare to return this fall, I find myself filled with anticipation. What new lessons await? Which relationships will be renewed or newly formed? What gifts am I being prepared to receive? While I valued this past year of taking a break, I believe there is an irreplaceable value of gathering with this community in a new host city each fall.

If you're considering attending the CCDA Conference for the first time or returning after a hiatus like me, I encourage you to come with these three intentions in mind: to learn continuously, to connect authentically, and to receive graciously. In doing so, you'll discover, as I have, that the conference isn't just an event—it's a milestone in an ongoing journey of growth and impact.

Hope to see you there!

Pictured below: Murals from a "Go & See" Tour during the Fall 2022 CCDA Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina.