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In a digital age in which video resources and live streams are available, why does anyone still get together in the same room for a conference? Why does traveling to a certain location continue to matter?

Conferences aren’t going away because we understand there is something special in the act of gathering. We are embodied people, not mere minds waiting to download new information into our brains. If that were the case, why not sing a praise song at home on Sunday mornings and then download the pastor’s podcast? Conferences are special because they bring people together. Literally, together. Not just across the cyberspace, but in flesh-and-blood meeting, with conversation and coffee, in worship and celebration.

I hope you’ll consider these suggestions for making the most of the next conference you attend.

1. Have a plan, but be flexible.

Most conferences publicize the schedule of main sessions and workshops beforehand. It makes sense to plan ahead and choose to attend sessions when you are already familiar with the speaker or highly interested in the topic. As you make that plan, pick some sessions or speakers you might be tempted to skip. At a major conference, every speaker is there because they have something to say and are worth listening to. You are more likely to grow when you listen to someone you’ve never heard before.

At the same time, don’t over-schedule your days to the point you are inflexible. One of the best aspects of attending a conference are the spontaneous hallway meetings or running into someone in the bookstore. You may encounter friends or other pastors from your city, or people you met at the same conference the year before. Having a plan keeps you on track, but being flexible opens the door for enjoyable, unplanned conversations.

2. Find a way to rest and refuel.

Pastors need time away for refreshment. That’s why most conferences are designed to feed the shepherd who feeds the sheep. This nourishment takes place in the sessions themselves, of course, but it also takes place in moments of encouragement and fellowship.

I love seeing pastors attend conferences with leaders in their church or staff members. A conference can be a terrific opportunity to grow in the Lord and closer to each other. Don’t miss the opportunity to find time alone with the Lord, to encourage the people you are with, and to learn from the conference speakers. Oh, and make the most of your mealtimes. Enjoy the food and fellowship.

3. Benefit from the bookstore and the booths.

One reason I enjoy conferences is the bookstore. The savvy shopper will find that books related to the conference speakers or theme are significantly marked down in price. Plus, the bookstore usually provides shipping so you don’t have to pack all those books in your carry-on on the way home.

The booths are great for freebies. You get introduced to ministries you may not have heard of before. You come into contact with people you wouldn’t otherwise meet. And it’s always nice when booths feature giveaways, incentives, handouts and informational packets.

4. Don’t miss the singing.

My favorite aspect of attending a larger conference is the time of corporate singing. I don’t often get the chance to hear thousands of voices in the same room lifting high the name of Jesus. There’s something special about that moment when you choke up and let your voice fall silent while your heart is carried along with all your brothers and sisters giving glory to Christ. These times of corporate worship can be some of the most fruitful and moving moments of a conference. There’s no substitute for being there.

What about you? How do you determine what conferences you’ll attend? And how do you make the most of your time?

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