May 22nd & September 8th
Syracuse, NY
Stronger Churches Start with a Stronger Community
Join us for Shepherds Network Connect, where we gather as pastors and church leaders committed to cultivating thriving, Christ-centered communities. We know that ministry is more than just sermons and services—it’s about building meaningful relationships that reflect the love of Christ. Yet, in today’s world, fostering true connection and discipleship can feel like an uphill battle. How can pastors and church leaders adapt while staying true to the Word of God?
This one-day event is an opportunity for you to be equipped with biblical insights, refreshed through meaningful conversations, and empowered with practical strategies to create a culture of authentic connection in your church.
Event Details
Thursday, May 22nd 9am - 2pm*
Abundant Life Church
7000 All Nations Blvd., East Syracuse, NY 13057
*Registration begins at 8:30am
$50
Single Event Option
Register for May 22nd event only. Get access to all general sessions, workshops and more.
BUNDLE!
$90
Bundle Option
Register for May 22nd & September 8th events. Bundle and save by registering for both events.
May 22nd Featured Sessions
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Time: 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM
What does true biblical community look like? In this session, we’ll explore Acts 2:42-47 and uncover how the early church thrived through fellowship, prayer, and shared mission. A seasoned pastor or theologian will guide us through:
✅ Why biblical community is essential for spiritual growth
✅ The common obstacles that hinder authentic relationships in the church
✅ How pastors can cultivate a culture of belonging that extends beyond Sunday services -
Time: 10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
Building relationships in the church isn’t just about gathering once a week—it’s about fostering real, daily connections. This session, led by a church leader experienced in discipleship and small groups, will provide actionable insights on:
✅ Moving beyond programmatic small groups to genuine, life-on-life discipleship
✅ Practical ways to engage members outside of Sunday services
✅ Using seasonal events, service opportunities, and shared experiences to strengthen relationshipsThrough discussion and real-world examples, you’ll leave with practical strategies to transform your church’s approach to community.
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Time: 12:45 PM - 1:30 PM
Church culture starts at the top. In this session, a pastor who has successfully built a thriving church community will share how leadership influences the depth of relationships within a congregation. Key takeaways include:
✅ How being present and available fosters trust and engagement
✅ Encouraging vulnerability and openness among members
✅ Modeling servant leadership to create a culture of care and connectionThis session will equip you with the mindset and practical steps to lead your church into a deeper sense of unity and belonging.
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Time: 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Fostering a culture of true community takes more than just great sermons—it requires intentionality, strategy, and a deep understanding of how people connect. In this interactive breakout session, you’ll rotate through four hands-on learning stations, each focused on a key area of church community-building.
🔹 Hospitality & Welcome Teams – Discover how to create an atmosphere where every visitor and member feels like they truly belong from day one.
🔹 Small Groups & Discipleship – Learn how to move beyond meeting-based small groups and into real, life-on-life discipleship that deepens faith and relationships.
🔹 Serving Together – Explore how shared mission work—whether through outreach, local service, or ministry teams—naturally strengthens connections among members.
🔹 Intergenerational Community – Find practical ways to bridge the gap between generations and create a thriving, multi-generational church family.
This session will allow you to engage in discussions, gain practical tools, and leave with actionable ideas to implement in your own church.
Schedule is subject to change*
What to Expect
✅ Learn from Experienced Pastors on biblical and practical strategies for building community
✅ Engage in Hands-On Discussions & Interactive Breakouts
✅ Leave with an Actionable Plan to implement immediately in your church
✅ Connect with Like-Minded Leaders and grow together in ministry
Why this Event?
Creating a culture of community in your church isn’t something you have to figure out alone. When pastors and leaders come together, we gain wisdom, encouragement, and fresh perspective from one another. This is more than just an event—it’s a time to be renewed, refocused, and reminded that true, lasting church growth happens through relationships.
Event Speakers
Pastor John Carter
Pastor John Carter is known for his engaging and practical teaching style, he is the Founder and Senior Pastor of Abundant Life Christian Center. He also ministers internationally, speaking at church and leadership conferences throughout India, Africa, Eastern Europe, and North America. Pastor John has studied at Central Bible College in Springfield, Missouri, is a graduate of Rhema Bible Training Center and Nyack College with a Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies from Alliance Theological Seminary. He is the author of The Transformed Life.
Pastor Josh Finley
Pastor Josh Finley is a speaker, leadership consultant, and certified life coach with a passion for equipping leaders to navigate change, build healthy teams, and achieve meaningful growth. He has served leaders across business, government, education, and ministry worldwide, working with organizations in leadership transitions, plateaued churches seeking revitalization, and individuals striving for personal and professional development. His expertise lies in helping teams overcome toxic culture, foster synergy, and create sustainable success.
Travel & Accomodations
The nearest airport is Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), just a short drive from our venue. For your convenience, we've compiled a list of recommended hotels close to the Abundant Life Church campus at 7000 All Nations Blvd East Syracuse, NY 13057. Whether you're driving in or flying, you'll find everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Shepherds Network Connect is an in-person event open to all shepherds – senior pastors and their pastoral ministry team members.
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No, you do not have to be a member of Abundant Life Church to attend. Shepherds Connect is open to all pastors.
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Yes, you can bring as many members of your pastoral team as you would like to attend connect events.
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Shepherds Network Connect is being hosted on the campus of Abundant Life Church located at 7000 All Nations Blvd., East Syracuse, NY 13057 on May 22, 2025 and September 8, 2025.
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The cost for the Shepherds Network Connect is $50 for one event or $90 when registering for the two-event bundle. Early bird pricing for the bundle deal ends May 9th. Pricing includes all event programming, including lunch.
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Light refreshments will be available throughout the connect events and lunch will be provided.
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No, the Shepherds Network Connect events will not be live-streamed.
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Registration is only available online pre-event and will not be available at the door the day of the events.
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While you can register several members of your team on the same registration form, group pricing is not available at this time.
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All tickets are non-refundable. If you cannot attend, you can transfer your ticket to an available holder.
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The final day to register for Shepherds Network Connect for May will be Friday, May 9th.
This event is for you if…
✅ You desire deeper connections in your church. Sunday services alone aren’t enough—learn how to build a culture of authentic relationships and discipleship.
✅ Your small groups feel more like programs than family. Discover strategies to transform small groups into life-giving communities where people truly connect.
✅ You feel isolated in leadership. Ministry can be lonely, but you don’t have to lead alone. Connect with like-minded pastors and build a supportive network.
✅ Your church struggles with engagement. People attend but aren’t deeply connected—get practical tools to foster real belonging and commitment.
✅ You need an actionable plan. This isn’t just another event—you’ll leave with clear steps to strengthen community and grow your church culture.
If any of these resonate with you, Shepherds Network Connect is where you need to be! Join us and take the next step toward building a thriving church community.
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