Warning: I am talking about resources and conferences... beware of shameless plugs!

As I've mentioned before, I'm doing some work with LifeWay's Threads initiative. They are good folks and I've enjoyed working with them. We'll be releasing a new Bible study this fall called, Sent: Living The Missional Nature Of The Church. I am excited about seeing the ideas of missional living in a small group format.

I've also told you about my new co-authored book, Lost and Found: The Younger Unchurched and The Churches That Reach Them. It will release this October in Atlanta at the Catalyst Conference. One of my co-authors, Jason Hayes, serves as a face and voice for Threads by providing teaching, consulting, writing, etc.

All this to say, Threads is hosting a series of regional events this fall that I would encourage you to check out called, Connect Conferences. I'll be participating at several locations along with folks like Jason, Margaret Feinberg, Michael Kelley, and several others. Click here for more information.

Here's a quick snippet that will help you better understand the nature of these conferences. Be sure to register immediately as each location is limited to 75 participants.

Are you concerned when you hear reports from LifeWay Research and others showing that today's 20-somethings are less connected to the church than any previous generation? Do you think to the future and wonder what our churches will look like in twenty years if this large part of the population continues to be disconnected from God and His church?

Threads is passionate about making a difference. We invite you to join us for a regional Connect Conference near you in 2008. You will learn more about young adults, understand some of the many reasons they leave the church and often stay away, network with other leaders in your area and walk away with some do-able next steps and encouragement for your ministry.

Threads is limiting registration for each Connect Conference to 75 people, allowing us to customize the training to the questions on your heart and that face your region, while offering you a more hands-on event experience. This intimate number also provides opportunities for you to engage in discussion with seasoned ministers and best practice leaders in the area of young adult ministry.

Sales pitch over...

Update:

Jason Hayes, one of the other speakers at the Connect Conferences, shows forth his communication gifts below. After watching this, you won't want to miss the conference.

Jason blogs here and explains his train wreck here.

Jason has since busted up his jaw (in a boating accident, no less). I saw him yesterday and, unfortunately, this video may be the last time he communicates with a normal look on his face.

(Actaully, he is doing much better and he really is a good communicator.)

By the way, here is the final cover of our co-authored book, Lost and Found: The Younger Unchurched and the Churches that Reach Them.