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καινός: Explorations in Creative Preaching

A Lilly Endowment–funded initiative at Green Lake Conference Center that equips pastors and ministry leaders to experiment with imaginative, fresh approaches to preaching through immersive gatherings, creative labs, and intergenerational engagement.

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The Gospel hasn’t changed, but the way we preach it can.

Preaching is important. That’s why Green Lake Conference Center partnered with the Lilly Endowment and Kairos University to create unique opportunities for followers of Jesus to explore new ideas and experiment with creative approaches to sharing the Good News.

Join a community of people who still believe the Word of God is vibrant, relevant, and exciting. We will host two gatherings each year at Green Lake Conference Center. We can’t wait for you to join us!

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What We Offer

We are dedicated to inspiring fresh, creative approaches to preaching that engage both emerging and seasoned leaders. We offer summer immersion experiences where young adults participate in hands-on preaching opportunities, and two annual gatherings. One of those gatherings is to explore Gen Z and the implications generational shifts can have on preaching, the other is a preaching lab that encourages ministry leaders apply new techniques.

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“Behold, I am doing a new thing.”

καινός is the Greek word for “new” or “fresh,” found in Isaiah 43:19 where God says, “Behold, I am doing a new thing.” It captures the spirit of this project, a partnership between Green Lake Conference Center and Kairos University, focused on reimagining how we preach the Good News.

2025 Gatherings

Gen Z & Preaching

June 16–20, 2025, at Green Lake Conference Center
Discover how generational dynamics shape preaching in this one-of-a-kind gathering focused on Generation Z. Hosted at Green Lake Conference Center in Wisconsin, this event invites pastors, ministry leaders, and communicators to explore how to better connect with Gen Z through formational preaching.

Learn, Listen, and Connect
Led by Tanya Gericke, whose doctoral research focuses on Theology and Generation Z, this week will include expert teaching, interviews with Gen Z youth and young adults, and meaningful conversations about preaching that forms both heart and mind. Each day will include time for worship, reflection, and rich dialogue rooted in relationship with God and others. You’ll also have space to enjoy Green Lake’s peaceful setting and summer beauty.

Affordable and Family-Friendly
Stay for just $200 in hotel-style lodging or $50 in dorm-style housing—both options include meals and all program fees. Spouses and children are welcome, with free childcare available.

Registration has closed for this event.

 

Creativity in Preaching Lab

Join Us August 11–15, 2025 at Green Lake Conference Center
Explore creativity in preaching during a five-day gathering designed for pastors, ministry leaders, and anyone passionate about proclaiming the gospel in fresh ways. Set on the beautiful grounds of Green Lake Conference Center in Wisconsin, this event offers both inspiration and rest.

Experience, Experiment, and Grow
Participants will try out alternative approaches to preaching, engage in guided discussions, and receive feedback in a supportive environment. You’ll also have time to enjoy the lake, trails, and quiet spaces that make Green Lake so unique. Whether you’re looking to recharge or rethink your preaching, this space was created for you.

Affordable Options for You and Your Family
Stay for just $200 in hotel-style lodging or $50 in dorm-style housing, both of which include meals and all program fees. Spouses and kids are welcome, with free childcare provided for little ones.

Ready to join us? Click the button below to register or contact us with any questions.

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Experience Preaching Like Never Before

Register for one of our events or the summer immersion program today and be part of a supportive, creative preaching community.