Leading in a small church can be both deeply rewarding and profoundly exhausting. That’s why we created Community Conversations—monthly online gatherings for small church leaders and those who support them to find connection, encouragement, and new ideas. Each gathering offers spiritual nourishment for weary leaders.
The title and overarching theme for the year is:
Church in the Age of Exhaustion: Tools for When You’re Tired
Upcoming Conversation: October 23, 6:30-7:30 PM Central Time
October’s Topic: Mapping Our Spiritual Assets
Who Should Attend: Lay and Ordained Leaders
Registration: Opens October 14
We each have our own unique automatic responses to being overwhelmed or tired: pushing through; walking away; binging Netflix. We each also have collections of spiritual assets available to us. What if we leaned into those? Might we feel more resilient? Connected? Refreshed?
October’s Community Conversation topic explores the idea of spiritual assets and asks how we might pause when tired and reach for a spiritual tool to help us get through. You will leave with a tool you can bring back to you congregations. This could be a good Sunday morning or weekday Christian formation activity or discussion.
Dates for Future 2025-2026
All gatherings will take place on Zoom and will be 6:30pm-7:30pm CT.
Topics will be announced prior to each session.
November 20
February 5
March 12
April 16
Who Should Attend?
- Leaders in small churches—any and all orders
- Diocesan staff and canons
- Anyone passionate about helping small churches thrive
What You'll Experience
Each 60-minute gathering includes:
- A centering spiritual reflection
- A short presentation
- Small group breakout conversations with leaders from around the country, guided by Iona’s experienced spiritual directors
Why Join?
- Renew your sense of hope and connection!
- Hear how other churches are navigating similar challenges!
- Leave with fresh insights and encouragement for the road ahead!
Spread the Word!
Community Conversations are open to all.
Share this gathering with your congregation, your diocese, or colleagues in other denominations.