2024 Conference Workshops
We plan to hold around 20 different workshops at the Caffeinated Church Conference! See below for workshop descriptions and speaker information (if confirmed). We will continue to add workshops as they are confirmed. Of course, workshops are subject to change as we explore what topics are of interest to communicators, administrators, and volunteers. If you have an idea not covered here, please send your idea to mike@caffeinatedchurch.org.
Practical AI & Your Work
How might Artificial Intelligence help you in your work? AI can help church staff be more efficient, effective, and strategic in their work. Discover how AI can revolutionize routine tasks, provide data-driven insights, and improve communications, freeing up time for church staff to focus on building relationships and serving the community. Learn to leverage technology practically with this demonstrative workshop chock full of examples and ideas. (Full disclosure: AI helped write this workshop description.) This workshop is led by Canon Mike Orr, Canon for Communications & Evangelism, The Episcopal Church in Colorado.
Graphic Design for Beginners
Led by Ronda Palazzari, a mixed media artist, designer, author, and photographer living in Denver, Colorado. Ronda teaches on graphic design for beginners and color theory. She is the Director of Communications of Higher Things, an RSO Youth Non-Profit for the Lutheran Missouri Synod.
Focus on 5 Communications Areas & Ignore the Rest!
Updating your website each week, navigating Facebook's constantly changing platform, writing an article for the church newsletter every month, connecting with folks worshipping online… the list of communication-related tasks can be overwhelming for a full-time staff person let alone for the majority of churches that have volunteers and staff sharing the burden. Kelly Champagne, owner of Evoke Engagement Experts, shares the five areas of communication your congregation should focus on when you have limited time or resources.
Healthy Practices for Social Media
Join a conversation discussing some of the healthy practices for navigating social media as a parish/diocesan/church communicator in order to create an engaging, safe, and wholesome account. We will think through the “why” of using social media, and talk through boundaries, politics, trolls, and more. This workshop will focus more on the theory of engaging within social media and the establishment of protocols rather than the “how to post/get more followers/etc.” Spoiler alert: Alli doesn’t know how to do one of those TikTok dances, so unfortunately that will not be on the agenda. This workshop is led by Alli Gannett, Director of Communications for the Diocese of Oregon and the Episcopal Church in Western Oregon.
True Testimonies: How We Work
Church communicators can often be the catch-all for the responsibilities that don't naturally fall to anyone else. In this workshop, we will discuss how we can work smarter by creating processes and procedures while setting expectations so we can work more efficiently. Participants will share their own challenges in a confidential setting as the panelists help communicators find their voice and lean into their expertise. This will be a time to share resources and successes and create a supportive network for communicators to lean on. Please be prepared to talk about real issues that affect your professional life as a church communicator. This workshop is led by Evans Ousley and Enrique Cintrón, the communications team at Saint John’s Cathedral, Denver.
Videography & Sharing Stories: From Gear to Post-Production
In 2022, video made up a staggering 83% of content across digital platforms like social media (LinkedIn). This means that videography is growing as a way to share our story meaning more people will be viewing instead of reading. So, how do we share stories of Good News through the ministry of videography? In this workshop, we dove into gear, how to get people to share their stories authentically, and post-production flow. This workshop was led by Canon Easton Davis, Canon for Communications & Digital Evangelism, the Diocese of Atlanta.
Camera Tech & Getting Started
From camera gear and accessories to gadgets and programs, we explored various photography setups for your ministry. Explore the benefits of using dedicated camera equipment while demystifying photography jargon and shopping. Whether you are wanting to get started or looking to upgrade your setup, this is a great workshop to get started. With over a decade of photography experience, Bro. Andrew Morehead, Missioner for Communications and Evangelism for the Episcopal Church in East Tennessee, leads this workshop.
BRIDGING IDEOLOGICAL GAPS: A GUIDE TO RESPECTFUL POLITICAL DIALOGUE
As the chasms between political ideologies seem to widen, concern and fear are on the rise. However, this isn't a path we're obliged to follow. The essence of peacebuilding is to engage with others openly, learn from their viewpoints, and respectfully offer our own opinions with a sense of vulnerability and humility. To address the complex problems facing our society, we must be rooted in our faith and know the Why behind our stances on social justice issues. Dare we say, “Gospel Justice” issues. This short introduction to respectful political dialogue aims to equip you with tools for fostering a more constructive community discussion around political issues in both your church and across the family dinner table. This workshop is led by Peter Severson, Director of the Colorado Lutheran Advocacy Ministry.
REIMAGINING YOUR CHURCH BULLETIN
If the phrase "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" sums up your attitude towards your church bulletin, this workshop may make you reconsider. While sticking to old methods is tempting, taking a fresh look at your bulletin's design and content could transform it into a more effective tool for connection and engagement. In this workshop, we'll share practical advice on optimizing your church bulletin for better readability, accessibility, and cost-efficiency, without compromising on its essence and purpose. This workshop is led by John Reid, Chief of Finance & Operations at St. Paul’s Memorial Church at the University of Virginia.
Visual Identity Strategy and Best Practices
Why is visual identity important? What graphic and design elements make your organization or “brand” memorable to your audience? In this workshop, learn how to create a visual identity strategy that will guide your design decisions, improve your recall value and creating a lasting impression. Workshop led by Canon Mike Orr, Canon for Communications & Evangelism, The Episcopal Church in Colorado.
RELATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS
Join us for an interactive workshop tailored for church communicators and administrators, focusing on the art of Relational Communication. Dive deep into understanding listening filters—those biases and experiences that shape how messages are received—and learn how to ensure your message truly "lands" with your audience. Through role-playing, case studies, and group discussions, you'll gain essential skills for enhancing community building, spiritual guidance, and administrative efficacy. Whether you're delivering a sermon, coordinating a church event, or resolving conflicts, this workshop will equip you with the tools to communicate more effectively. Workshop led by the Rev. Dr. Dee Cooper, Lead Presbyter of the Denver Presbytery.
SMALL & RURAL CHURCH COMMUNICATIONS
Join our workshop designed for small and rural churches seeking effective communication strategies. We'll explore how to spread the Gospel using traditional avenues like community events, flyers, and newsletters. Learn how to optimize minimal internet resources for reaching your congregation. We'll also delve into the nuances of utilizing social media in rural settings to create a connected faith community. Empower your church to communicate more effectively, regardless of technological constraints.
“IT’S IN THE ENEWSLETTER! BEEN THERE FOR WEEKS!”
Let’s talk eNewsletters. What email sending service are you using? How do you decide what information and events go in and what doesn’t? How do you highlight the important stuff amidst a lot of other information? How do you get people to actually read it? Learn tips and tricks to improve readability, ensure brevity and consistency, and improve your open rates as you community your events and opportunities to your church community.
CHURCH ADMINISTRATION: PRACTICAL STRATEGIES & TOOLS IN OUR WORK
Join us for this panel discussion tailored for church administrators. This session will share insights for the vast breadth of areas that church administrators are responsible for: volunteer coordination, event planning, member data, financial records, event calendars, operations, strategic donation and expense management, effective channels for internal and external communications, and more. We'll share innovative tools that streamline administrative tasks, freeing up your time for meaningful engagement with parishioners. Whether you're managing a large urban congregation or a small rural church, you'll walk away with actionable insights to enhance your administrative effectiveness. This workshop is a panel discussion by Colorado administrators from different church denominations.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR RELIGION WHILE WORKING FOR THE CHURCH
How do you keep the faith when you work for the Church? Being in ministry can be overwhelming. There are many challenges. If you worship where you work, there can be even greater challenges. How do you keep your religion and remain clinging to your Creator in the midst of storms? Let’s talk together and learn from one another.
SOCIAL MEDIA AS MINISTRY
Learn how to approach social media in a strategy-driven instead of a content-driven way all in an effort to reach and minister to more people. In this workshop, we will explore how to build relationships in the social media space, secure meaningful engagement, and more.
BUDGETING
Join our Church Administrator's Workshop on Budgeting and Cash Flow to gain essential skills in financial stewardship. This hands-on session will cover budget creation, expense tracking, and cash flow management tailored for church operations. Learn practical tools to optimize resources, ensuring your church can continue to serve its community effectively. Perfect for administrators, finance teams, and clergy interested in fiscal responsibility.
DATABASES
Databases aren’t just for large churches. Having a database can help churches of all sizes to do the work of ministry. Ultimately, church management software can improve your ministry effectiveness through empowering people, both paid and volunteer, and offering insights into the processes you follow. Having the right tools for managing your church can provide systems to engage newcomers, reengage those who have become distant, and deepening relationships within the church for the purpose of making disciples. Choosing the right tools for your church or diocese can be daunting. Talk to other churches who’ve implemented a database/church management system and are strategically using it to grow their church.
I DIDN'T SIGN UP TO ALSO BE THE IT PERSON
Are you juggling multiple roles in your church, including unexpected IT duties? Is your church’s IT needs growing beyond your expertise? This workshop aims to equip church staff and volunteers facing this dilemma. Gain insights into assessing your technical needs, budget considerations, and how to select a reliable IT service provider. Equip yourself with the tools to make informed decisions, ensuring that your church's technology serves its mission effectively and securely.