🎟️ Secure your spot for Orange Conference 2025—Register now! →

Why Ministry Leaders Keep Coming Back to Orange Conference

Image of a crowd at conference during a main session.

Each spring, thousands of ministry leaders gather in Atlanta for one reason—Orange Conference helps them lead better.

Since its inception, over 78,000 leaders have attended. They come from different churches, backgrounds, and ministry roles, but they share a common goal: to grow in their calling and impact the next generation.

Some are new to ministry. Others have been in it for decades. Some bring their entire team. Others come alone.

But all leave with fresh ideas, renewed energy, and a clear plan for what’s next.

Why Orange Conference Is a Must-Attend Event

1. Strategic, High-Quality Training

Orange Conference offers more than inspiration—it delivers practical, focused training. Every main session, workshop, and experience is designed to help leaders move their ministries forward.

What to expect:

  • 50+ workshops across preschool, kids, youth, and family ministry.
  • Specialized content for communicators, small group leaders, and senior leaders.
  • Trending topics like building faith habits, storytelling, mental health, and partnering with parents.
  • Fresh insights into Gen Alpha and Gen Z.
  • Focus on leadership, strategy, and navigating change.

This is high-impact training that respects your time and equips you to take action.

2. A Community That Energizes

While the training is excellent, the true magic of Orange Conference is the community. Thousands of leaders gather in one place—people who understand the weight of ministry and the questions you wrestle with daily.

You’ll feel it in the main sessions, hear it in hallway conversations, and see it in workshop discussions. The energy that comes from being “in it” together is transformative. And those connections don’t fade when the conference ends—they become relationships that carry you forward all year long.

Whether you attend with your team or come solo, you’ll leave connected to something bigger than yourself.

3. An Experience That Lasts

Orange Conference isn’t just another event—it’s an experience. It’s engaging, intentional, and designed to refresh your mind, heart, and spirit.

What makes it unique?

  • Dynamic main sessions filled with worship, real stories, and unforgettable moments.
  • Creative stage design and interactive experiences that keep you engaged.
  • Workshops that are both practical and personal, tackling real issues ministry leaders face.

Nick Blevins, an Orange Blogger and longtime attendee, says: “What I love most about Orange, other than the people, is how they are constantly innovating. They’re always looking to improve, tweak, and create in order to help churches win with families.”

That creative spirit makes every session impactful, ensuring you leave with actionable insights and a renewed sense of purpose.

4. A Ripple Effect That Lasts All Year

The three days of Orange Conference are just the beginning. The impact continues long after leaders return home.

How the ripple effect works:

  • Leaders return with shared language for ministry.
  • Teams align around a clear strategy.
  • Volunteers feel more invested because leaders feel more equipped.
  • Families benefit because ministries work together.
  • Churches start asking better questions and getting better results.

This isn’t just about a great event—it’s about long-term ministry impact.

What’s New for Orange Conference 2025?

The 2025 theme, The Art of We, is all about working together. In a divided world, the Church has the opportunity to model unity, collaboration, and shared purpose.

This year’s speakers include:

  • Lecrae
  • Erwin McManus
  • Rita Springer
  • Jon Acuff
  • Chris Heaslip
  • And many more!

Every speaker brings a unique perspective, pointing leaders toward what’s possible when we stop working in silos.

Orange Conference is always evolving. While the topics and speakers change, the energy and impact remain the same. This year’s event will reflect new leadership, new technology, and a fresh vision for the future.

First-Time Attendee? Here’s What to Know

If this is your first Orange Conference, here’s what to expect:

  • You don’t need to know anyone—connection happens fast.
  • You won’t feel lost—everything is clearly organized and well-paced.
  • You’ll want to take notes—because the ideas keep coming!
  • You’ll laugh, reflect, and probably cry at least once.
  • You’ll leave tired—but in the best way possible.

Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Experience:

  • Bring a notebook or open a fresh doc on your phone to capture ideas.
  • Write down action steps to take in your ministry immediately.
  • Be intentional about meeting new people—exchange contact info!
  • Don’t skip the exhibit hall—it’s packed with valuable tools and resources.

Karyn Petric, a 2023 attendee, shared: “I highly recommend Orange Conference to anyone in church leadership, not just youth and children’s ministry. The conference helped me stop, think, and reflect on what God had to say to each of us.”

Why It Still Matters

Ministry is challenging. Leading people, building strategy, and investing in the next generation takes a toll. Orange Conference is a chance to step back, refocus, and reignite your passion for ministry.

You’ll walk away encouraged, equipped, and clear on where you’re going next. That’s why leaders keep coming back.

👉 Register now for Orange Conference 2025!

Why Orange Conference is Better When You Bring Someone With You

How to Get More Students & Adults to Sign Up for Summer Events   

Orange Curriculum

Want a bigger strategy? Try Orange today

Get Orange in Your Inbox 📨

Get free resources for today, and the latest thinking for tomorrow.