Best Practices in Ministry (BPM) is an annual conference arranged and hosted by Christ Church Lutheran in Phoenix, Arizona. Professional church workers and laity (2,300 this year) were brought together under the theme, “You Are Not Alone” to share their best practices for ministry in their contexts. Along the way, and intentionally, attendees are encouraged in their unique ministries by the hospitality and fellowship provided, and by the opportunities for worship, workshops, and networking to build up the body of Christ.
A fellow pastor explained: “Best Practices is like a church convention, but everyone is really nice and considerate. And, there are no votes taken.” Yes, that is an overstatement and hyperbole. There is truth, however, in this observation. Warm 70 degrees and sunshine in February is also a drawing card for Northwesterners.
I represented “A Christian Ministry in the National Parks” for the past half dozen years. This is the dynamic program that shaped my life and ministry as a seminarian. It continues to influence my own life and ministry today as I serve as a resource and mentor for those who come to serve in national parks in the Pacific Northwest. This year, I presented and exhibited to build on relationships and plant seeds for those who visit our national parks and for those — especially students — who will serve in the summer or year-long internships. There is also outreach to an increasing number of those approaching retirement who want to live, work, and serve in a national park.
Because of these responsibilities, I could not attend many of the 300 workshops offered over the three days. I was gratified that our district president, Rev. Mike Von Behren and his wife Jennifer, attended my session. There was time to interact with long-time friends and classmates, to catch up with Northwest workers, and to network with new folks who are committed to sharing the Good News of Jesus.
Many other NOW District folks also presented sessions. One very popular one was the “Raising Youth as Servant Leaders” track that outlined the Youth Leadership Initiative, which was led by YLI team members DCE Jonathan Kopecky and DCE Jackie Druckhammer, and featured several other heavy-hitters in youth ministry. It was a chance for NOW leaders to unpack the groundbreaking resource that pilots resources that support the vital behaviors that equip leaders to encourage youth to use their God-given gifts for service. Get more info on the YLI here — and while you are there, be sure to also download “The Know Name Journal: A Field Guide for Creating a Yes! Culture.” This journal/planner-based resource is designed to encourage leaders to “Know the Person, Name the Gift, and Find the Next Yes!”
A particular highlight for me was to attend the presentation by those who comprise “The Songwriter Initiative.” This is a program coordinated by the Center for Worship Leadership out of Christ College at Concordia-Irvine. A personal reward was to connect with Cara Berg (Prince of Peace/Fremont) — a family friend, Kaleidoscope alum, and former member at Prince of Peace in Lakewood, Washington.
Often I’ve told those coming to BPM for the first time that the program resembles a three-ring circus. One cannot do everything and attend all the sessions of interest. But, there is always next year — BPM ’26 will be Feb. 12-14.
