Young pastors, ministry students, those considering pastoral ministry and seasoned preachers from across Arkansas are invited to gather Feb. 27-28 for the upcoming Preaching Lab “Shepherd the Flock” Conference at Central Baptist College in Conway. The two-day event is designed to equip men who are just beginning ministry with theological clarity, practical training, and personal encouragement for a lifetime of faithful preaching.
Hosted in the Mitchell Lecture Hall in the Watkins Building, the two-day conference will begin Friday evening at 6 p.m. and conclude Saturday at 2 p.m. The event is designed specifically to equip men who are just beginning ministry with practical tools, theological clarity, and personal encouragement for a lifetime of faithful preaching.
A Conference Focused on the Pulpit
Unlike larger conferences that emphasize broad leadership themes, the Preaching Lab centers on one primary calling: preaching the Word of God clearly, faithfully, and effectively.
Speakers for the conference include:
• Dr. Clif Johnson (Garrett Memorial Baptist Church, Hope)
• Dustin Wisely (First Baptist Church, Magnolia)
• Jason Goodwin (La. Tech ABS/Church Plant, Ruston, La.)
• Adam Thomas (Wyatt Baptist Church, El Dorado)
Each speaker brings years of pastoral and ministry experience and will address key areas that are especially relevant to new pastors.
Topics to Be Covered
Throughout the weekend, participants will receive instruction and discussion on topics such as:
• The biblical calling and character of a preacher
• Developing text-driven, expository sermons
• Moving from sermon preparation to clear pulpit delivery
• Avoiding common pitfalls in the first years of ministry
• Shepherding a congregation while growing as a preacher
• Enduring criticism, discouragement, and spiritual fatigue
• Cultivating a healthy devotional life alongside sermon preparation
The conference will include both main sessions and interactive elements designed to foster meaningful learning and conversation.
Practical Benefits for Pastors
The Preaching Lab is built with accessibility and mentorship in mind. The goal is not simply to provide inspiration but to offer practical training that pastors can apply immediately in their local churches.
Many young pastors find themselves preaching weekly without ever having received structured feedback or hands-on training. This conference offers biblical encouragement, practical instruction, and opportunities to build relationships with other men serving in similar contexts.
The benefits extend beyond the individual pastor. Stronger preaching strengthens local congregations, deepens discipleship, and fosters healthier churches across the state.
Investing in the Next Generation
As churches look toward the future, we believe events like the Preaching Lab are essential for preparing the next generation of shepherds. By gathering experienced pastors and emerging leaders in one place, the conference seeks to encourage longevity, faithfulness, and joy in ministry.
The Preaching Lab Conference is open to pastors, bivocational ministers, seminary students, and men sensing a call to preach. Space is limited to ensure meaningful engagement.
For more information about registration and conference details, interested participants may register at firstmagnolia.breezechms.com/form/ac63c7.
