“They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common.” Acts 2:42-47 (NIV; emphasis added)

Being an artist and a teacher that serves in a local church is both challenging and rewarding. We are about rediscovering awe: the deep sense of wonder that is kindled inside of us when we are touched by God. Awe doesn’t just come from good art or great creative elements, it flows from creativity that resonates with who God is and expresses a portion of that essence. Creative elements that are arranged and executed with sensitivity and purpose can cause people to experience wonder as either an aspect of God’s character or a portion of the human condition. When people have an encounter that helps them rediscover awe, their souls are ready to be molded by the Spirit of God and moved to a new place in their relationship with Him. Awe is a pathway to growing in God: it increases our faith and our awareness of the deeper reality of who God is and His activity in our lives and in our world.

If you are a part of the team that creates and contributes to the worship services in your church, we hope you will join us for WONDER, the 2009 Arts Conference, June 10, 11 & 12, where together we will seek God’s touch. The two-and-a-half day experience is designed to replenish you creatively, emotionally and spiritually. The main sessions, the breakout experiences and the extra offerings are intended to help you grow as an artist, leader, teacher and Christ-follower.

At WONDER ‘09, you’ll…

· Hear contributors from over 25 different churches bring learnings and creative ideas to equip, encourage and ennoble the creative arts leader, the teaching pastor, the technical artist, the worship leader, the vocalist, the musician, the actor, the writer … your entire creative team.

· Learn, grow and improve your unique gifts through over 120 skill based breakouts on topics such as leadership, teaching, drama, worship, music, technical arts and more.

· Collaborate with other artists, leaders and teachers who understand your unique calling and the challenges you face. Exchange ideas and call one another to new competencies.

· Attend art inspiring activities in the evening on the Willow Campus or in Chicago. Join us for WONDER. Renew your vision. Refine your gifts. Refresh your soul.

Reserve your place now and be the first to choose your session as soon as speakers are finalized.