November 3, 2026
Capturing Glimpses of God’s Glory: An Interview with Nature Photographer Kenneth Keifer
Landon Shuman
Ministries & Organizations
Missouri
Restoration Movement ministries, missions, colleges and organizations.
29 organizations
AllMissionsIndependent Christian ChurchEducationConferencesChurch of ChristConsultingPublishingChurch Planting OrganizationCohorts
Independent Christian ChurchARM Prison OutreachARM Prison Outreach (American Rehabilitation Ministries) equips prison chaplains and ministry partners with Bibles, Bible study…Independent Christian Church · Missions
ARM Prison Outreach
ARM Prison Outreach — Organization Profile ARM Prison Outreach is the public-facing name of American Rehabilitation Ministries (ARM), based in Joplin, Missouri, focused on bringing the message of Jesus to people who are incarcerated. Founded in 1973, ARM serves as…
ARM Prison Outreach — Organization Profile ARM Prison Outreach is the public-facing name of American Rehabilitation Ministries (ARM), based in Joplin, Missouri, focused on bringing the message of Jesus to people who are incarcerated. Founded in 1973, ARM serves as a behind-the-scenes partner to chaplains, churches, and volunteers by providing printed resources and practical tools that can be used inside correctional facilities where access is limited. At the heart of the ministry is getting Scripture and discipleship materials into prisons and jails. ARM supplies Bibles and coordinates Bible study materials that can be distributed in facilities. One of the ongoing emphases highlighted by the organization is helping provide a Bible for a prisoner at a stated cost of $5 (covering…
ARM Prison Outreach — Organization Profile
ARM Prison Outreach is the public-facing name of American Rehabilitation Ministries (ARM), based in Joplin, Missouri, focused on bringing the message of Jesus to people who are incarcerated. Founded in 1973, ARM serves as a behind-the-scenes partner to chaplains, churches, and volunteers by providing printed resources and practical tools that can be used inside correctional facilities where access is limited.
At the heart of the ministry is getting Scripture and discipleship materials into prisons and jails. ARM supplies Bibles and coordinates Bible study materials that can be distributed in facilities. One of the ongoing emphases highlighted by the organization is helping provide a Bible for a prisoner at a stated cost of $5 (covering purchase, processing, shipping, and handling), and partnering efforts such as the “God Sets You Free” project that expands access to biblical resources for inmates who want them but cannot afford them.
ARM also supports the day-to-day realities of ministry behind bars by offering greeting-card resources for incarcerated people—a practical way to help inmates communicate with family members and maintain relationships. In addition, the organization operates the American Bible Academy (ABA), a Bible correspondence approach that delivers structured courses directly to inmates (and makes online access available through ABARC.org). This combines lesson-based study with a process for completion and recognition, aimed at sustained growth rather than a single touchpoint.
Another distinctive area of service is baptistry support. ARM is known for providing portable baptistries designed for prisons and jails, making it possible for chaplains and prison-based church gatherings to practice baptism even in restrictive environments. Alongside prison-focused support, ARM also sells portable baptistries for churches (including communion-table models), with a stated goal of helping offset the cost of units provided for correctional settings.
ARM’s scope is nationwide across the United States and also international, serving incarcerated men and women through resource distribution and structured study options that can be implemented by local chaplains and ministry partners. Individuals, churches, and supporters can engage by donating, sponsoring specific resource needs (such as Bibles), praying for prison ministry, subscribing for updates, or volunteering through the organization’s Joplin-based operations.
Key Links
Contact Information
Socials
Leadership
Independent Christian ChurchLATMLiterature and Teaching Ministries (LATM) partners with Christian leaders worldwide to publish Bible-based books in local…Independent Christian Church · Publishing
LATM
Literature and Teaching Ministries (LATM) — Organization Profile Literature and Teaching Ministries (LATM) is a nonprofit publishing ministry that partners with Christian leaders to help produce Bible-based, culturally relevant books in the world’s languages. LATM’s focus is straightforward: when pastors,…
Literature and Teaching Ministries (LATM) — Organization Profile Literature and Teaching Ministries (LATM) is a nonprofit publishing ministry that partners with Christian leaders to help produce Bible-based, culturally relevant books in the world’s languages. LATM’s focus is straightforward: when pastors, teachers, evangelists, and church leaders have trusted resources in their heart language, they are better equipped to teach Scripture, disciple believers, and strengthen local congregations. LATM describes its work as helping people around the world “find, follow, and serve Jesus” through accessible Christian books. LATM was formally established in 1992 by Chris DeWelt to pursue a vision connected to the ministry of College Press Publishing Company. The organization’s story includes Don DeWelt’s earlier burden for mission fields where leaders lacked…
Literature and Teaching Ministries (LATM) — Organization Profile
Literature and Teaching Ministries (LATM) is a nonprofit publishing ministry that partners with Christian leaders to help produce Bible-based, culturally relevant books in the world’s languages. LATM’s focus is straightforward: when pastors, teachers, evangelists, and church leaders have trusted resources in their heart language, they are better equipped to teach Scripture, disciple believers, and strengthen local congregations. LATM describes its work as helping people around the world “find, follow, and serve Jesus” through accessible Christian books.
LATM was formally established in 1992 by Chris DeWelt to pursue a vision connected to the ministry of College Press Publishing Company. The organization’s story includes Don DeWelt’s earlier burden for mission fields where leaders lacked books in their own languages, and the development of a structured way to fund translation and publication so that projects could be completed in-country rather than relying on outside systems. LATM also notes the launch of its Book Club in 1994 as an ongoing way for supporters to help fund projects month by month.
At the core of LATM’s ministry is its book-project model. LATM works with leaders outside the United States who request a project that will serve their ministry context. Funding is raised through partnerships, and the project is then written or translated, edited, designed, and printed in the country where it will be distributed. This approach aims to keep production close to the people being served, while placing practical study tools into the hands of churches, Bible colleges, and emerging leaders.
LATM’s work spans a wide range of contexts and languages, including resources used for discipleship, evangelism, theology, apologetics, and church leadership development. The organization reports 1,600+ completed projects, 2.9+ million books printed, and work across 100 languages. In addition to supporting international projects, LATM also maintains a bookstore that makes many translated resources available—serving multilingual communities and churches that want to put discipleship tools into people’s hands.
LATM is based in Joplin, Missouri, and its partnerships serve leaders and churches worldwide. Individuals and churches can engage by praying for current projects, joining the Book Club, making one-time or recurring gifts, or helping fund a specific project. Supporters can also subscribe for updates and follow LATM’s stories as book projects move from translation to printing to distribution in the regions where they are needed most.
Key Links
Contact Information
Socials
Leadership
Independent Christian ChurchCollege Press PublishingCollege Press Publishing Company, based in Joplin, Missouri, has produced Bible-based books and curriculum since 1959,…Independent Christian Church · Publishing
College Press Publishing
College Press Publishing — Organization Profile College Press Publishing Company is a Christian publishing ministry that develops books and curriculum to help people study Scripture and grow as disciples. According to the organization, it has been serving churches and Christian…
College Press Publishing — Organization Profile College Press Publishing Company is a Christian publishing ministry that develops books and curriculum to help people study Scripture and grow as disciples. According to the organization, it has been serving churches and Christian leaders since 1959, partnering with churches, Bible colleges, and individual Christians to produce Bible-based resources for teaching and spiritual formation. Its catalog includes a range of titles intended for both church settings and personal study. College Press describes its work as centered on providing accessible, Bible-based material for local congregations, with a long-running emphasis on resources that support week-to-week ministry. Their “About” description highlights three core categories that have become a hallmark of the brand: age-specific Sunday school curriculum, doctrinally…
College Press Publishing — Organization Profile
College Press Publishing Company is a Christian publishing ministry that develops books and curriculum to help people study Scripture and grow as disciples. According to the organization, it has been serving churches and Christian leaders since 1959, partnering with churches, Bible colleges, and individual Christians to produce Bible-based resources for teaching and spiritual formation. Its catalog includes a range of titles intended for both church settings and personal study.
College Press describes its work as centered on providing accessible, Bible-based material for local congregations, with a long-running emphasis on resources that support week-to-week ministry. Their “About” description highlights three core categories that have become a hallmark of the brand: age-specific Sunday school curriculum, doctrinally sound Bible commentaries, and engaging devotional books. That mix allows churches to use College Press materials across multiple ministry lanes—from classroom teaching to small groups to individual discipleship.
In addition to publishing and distribution, the organization offers connected resources that support churches as they implement curriculum. For example, College Press hosts curriculum resource links (such as supplemental teaching tools) to help leaders enrich lessons and engage students at different age levels. The site also features a broad online storefront with topical collections (including ministry leadership materials) and periodic highlights of new releases.
College Press also invites authors to submit proposals for publication. The organization states that it is an evangelical Christian publishing house primarily associated with the Christian Churches and Churches of Christ, and it provides clear guidance for prospective authors. Their public guidelines outline the kinds of projects they seek—such as Bible studies, biblically based topical studies, apologetics, and historical biographies of Christians—along with procedural steps for submitting an initial query letter and proposal before a manuscript is reviewed.
Beyond print and curriculum publishing, College Press hosts the National Preaching Summit, an ongoing event presented as a time of training and encouragement for preachers. The event listing notes workshops, mentoring sessions, fellowship, and practical instruction aimed at strengthening biblical communication. This gathering complements the organization’s broader purpose by investing in leaders who teach Scripture regularly.
College Press Publishing is based in Joplin, Missouri, and it describes its resources as serving growing Christians worldwide. Churches and individuals can engage by purchasing books or curriculum, using the online resource links for teaching support, recommending materials to ministry teams, or exploring author submission guidelines for those who sense a call to write and publish Bible-based content.
Key Links
Contact Information
Socials
Leadership
Leadership: Not publicly listed.
EducationOzark Christian CollegeOzark Christian College (OCC) in Joplin, Missouri is a biblical higher education institution training men and…Education · Independent Christian Church
Ozark Christian College
Ozark Christian College — Organization Profile Ozark Christian College (OCC) is a degree-granting institution of biblical higher education whose mission is to train men and women for Christian service. Based in Joplin, Missouri, the college serves students preparing for lifelong…
Ozark Christian College — Organization Profile Ozark Christian College (OCC) is a degree-granting institution of biblical higher education whose mission is to train men and women for Christian service. Based in Joplin, Missouri, the college serves students preparing for lifelong ministry and leadership in local churches, parachurch organizations, and mission contexts. OCC’s roots are in the Stone-Campbell heritage (Independent Christian Churches and Churches of Christ), with an institutional emphasis on biblical authority and gospel-centered formation. OCC frames its work around a clear mission-and-vision pair: training gospel leaders while aiming to glorify God by evangelizing the lost and edifying Christians worldwide. This focus shapes the curriculum, campus life, and ministry opportunities students encounter during their time at Ozark. The college also…
Ozark Christian College — Organization Profile
Ozark Christian College (OCC) is a degree-granting institution of biblical higher education whose mission is to train men and women for Christian service. Based in Joplin, Missouri, the college serves students preparing for lifelong ministry and leadership in local churches, parachurch organizations, and mission contexts. OCC’s roots are in the Stone-Campbell heritage (Independent Christian Churches and Churches of Christ), with an institutional emphasis on biblical authority and gospel-centered formation.
OCC frames its work around a clear mission-and-vision pair: training gospel leaders while aiming to glorify God by evangelizing the lost and edifying Christians worldwide. This focus shapes the curriculum, campus life, and ministry opportunities students encounter during their time at Ozark. The college also highlights a set of core values that prioritize Scripture, service, truth-telling in love, dependence on God, unity through grace, and partnering with the Church in the Great Commission.
Academically, OCC offers undergraduate pathways designed to integrate Bible, theology, and practical ministry preparation. Programs include degrees such as Bible and Ministry (with an online option for working adults) and majors spanning areas like student ministry, children’s ministry, intercultural studies, creative arts ministry, and organizational leadership. Alongside these degrees, Ozark provides church-facing resources through NextLevel Online, a free video library taught by OCC professors for leadership training and outreach, as well as chapel livestreams and archives that keep alumni and supporters connected.
A major recent development in OCC’s story is that in 2024, Lincoln Christian Seminary transferred to OCC, becoming Lincoln Seminary at Ozark Christian College. This addition strengthens the graduate-level training available through Ozark’s seminary programming while continuing the institution’s long-standing commitment to equipping ministry leaders. OCC notes that its graduates commonly move into vocational or volunteer ministry, and it maintains a practical, church-connected approach to training.
Beyond coursework, OCC supports experiential formation through campus community life and service opportunities. The Idleman Ministry Center helps connect students with places to serve, internship guidance, and ministry openings. Athletics and student activities contribute to community rhythms, while resources like OCC Academy and other training initiatives extend Ozark’s impact beyond campus.
Ways to engage with OCC include applying for residential or online study, participating in campus visits and tours, and supporting students and programs through giving. From its campus in southwest Missouri, Ozark seeks to serve churches and Christian leaders across the United States and internationally through degree programs, seminary preparation, and practical resources for disciple-making and ministry leadership.
Key Links
Contact Information
Socials
Leadership
Church of ChristYouth in Action (YIAKC)Youth in Action (YIAKC) is a Kansas City–area youth conference for grades 6–12, bringing church groups…Church of Christ · Conferences
Youth in Action (YIAKC)
Youth in Action (YIAKC) — Organization Profile Youth in Action (YIAKC) is a youth conference that brings together Christian teens for a concentrated weekend of worship, Bible teaching, and community. YIAKC is organized as a group-based event, meaning youth typically…
Youth in Action (YIAKC) — Organization Profile Youth in Action (YIAKC) is a youth conference that brings together Christian teens for a concentrated weekend of worship, Bible teaching, and community. YIAKC is organized as a group-based event, meaning youth typically attend with a church youth group and adult chaperones, creating a supervised environment that supports both spiritual growth and healthy peer relationships. The conference is designed for students in grades 6–12, offering an experience that combines large-group sessions with smaller settings where students can learn and reflect together. YIAKC emphasizes worship and keynote teaching alongside a rotation of classes and activities, giving groups a shared spiritual focus while also providing options for learning that fit different interests and stages of…
Youth in Action (YIAKC) — Organization Profile
Youth in Action (YIAKC) is a youth conference that brings together Christian teens for a concentrated weekend of worship, Bible teaching, and community. YIAKC is organized as a group-based event, meaning youth typically attend with a church youth group and adult chaperones, creating a supervised environment that supports both spiritual growth and healthy peer relationships.
The conference is designed for students in grades 6–12, offering an experience that combines large-group sessions with smaller settings where students can learn and reflect together. YIAKC emphasizes worship and keynote teaching alongside a rotation of classes and activities, giving groups a shared spiritual focus while also providing options for learning that fit different interests and stages of growth.
A key distinctive of YIAKC is its intentional blend of teaching and togetherness. The event schedule includes time for youth groups to meet privately for group devotionals, helping youth leaders and chaperones process the weekend’s lessons with their students. YIAKC also describes the value of shared “common space” time where groups can mingle, play games, and meet other teens—helping relationships form across congregations and states.
YIAKC takes place in a hotel conference setting near Kansas City International Airport, hosting the conference entirely within the Embassy Suites Kansas City Airport location. This format allows conference sessions, lodging, and group gathering spaces to remain in one place, which supports coordination for large numbers of attendees and makes it simpler for visiting groups to participate. YIAKC provides guidance for group leaders on room arrangements, expectations for youth supervision, and event policies so church groups can plan responsibly.
The conference is led by a board made up of leaders connected to multiple congregations, reflecting YIAKC’s cooperative nature. Board members represent churches in Missouri, Iowa, and the Kansas City region, and the conference provides a public contact email so churches and group leaders can ask questions or request help connecting with a group when needed.
For churches looking to engage, YIAKC’s primary pathways are registering as a youth group, preparing adults and students for a structured weekend of learning and worship, and using the conference as an opportunity to strengthen youth discipleship and relationships within a youth ministry. YIAKC also recognizes the importance of feedback and ongoing improvement through attendee input, and it highlights sponsors who help support the conference.
Key Links
Contact Information
Socials
Leadership
Church of ChristAntioch Collective Training Seminar (A.C.T.S.)Antioch Collective Training Seminar (A.C.T.S.) is an annual equipping workshop commonly hosted in O’Fallon, Missouri, training…Church of Christ · Conferences
Antioch Collective Training Seminar (A.C.T.S.)
Antioch Collective Training Seminar (A.C.T.S.) — Organization Profile Antioch Collective Training Seminar (A.C.T.S.) is an annual equipping workshop hosted by Antioch Collective, a nonprofit ministry that describes its purpose as helping churches pursue “Save. Equip. Send.”—evangelism, disciplemaking, and multiplication. A.C.T.S.…
Antioch Collective Training Seminar (A.C.T.S.) — Organization Profile Antioch Collective Training Seminar (A.C.T.S.) is an annual equipping workshop hosted by Antioch Collective, a nonprofit ministry that describes its purpose as helping churches pursue “Save. Equip. Send.”—evangelism, disciplemaking, and multiplication. A.C.T.S. is designed for disciples of Jesus who want hands-on training to become more effective at outreach, evangelism, disciplemaking, church planting, and practical ministry. Antioch Collective’s broader mission is rooted in the conviction that local churches are best positioned to carry disciplemaking forward in their own regions. The organization describes itself as a “community hub and resource network” that fosters relationships between church leaders and provides tools to assist churches in starting regionally supported church planting movements. Within that bigger vision,…
Antioch Collective Training Seminar (A.C.T.S.) — Organization Profile
Antioch Collective Training Seminar (A.C.T.S.) is an annual equipping workshop hosted by Antioch Collective, a nonprofit ministry that describes its purpose as helping churches pursue “Save. Equip. Send.”—evangelism, disciplemaking, and multiplication. A.C.T.S. is designed for disciples of Jesus who want hands-on training to become more effective at outreach, evangelism, disciplemaking, church planting, and practical ministry.
Antioch Collective’s broader mission is rooted in the conviction that local churches are best positioned to carry disciplemaking forward in their own regions. The organization describes itself as a “community hub and resource network” that fosters relationships between church leaders and provides tools to assist churches in starting regionally supported church planting movements. Within that bigger vision, A.C.T.S. functions as a concentrated training environment where leaders and members can learn, collaborate, and leave with tools that translate into everyday congregational ministry.
A.C.T.S. is organized around tracks that address multiple ministry contexts rather than a single “main room” experience. The seminar materials describe training lanes such as adult ministry, youth ministry, campus ministry, church planting, service ministries, disciplemaking small groups, and evangelistic Bible study. This multi-track structure makes A.C.T.S. usable for whole ministry teams—preachers, elders, ministry staff, and engaged members—who want shared language and practical next steps for building disciplemaking cultures.
While each year’s specific topics vary, the event’s consistent emphasis is on equipping that is biblically grounded and immediately applicable. Examples of recurring topic areas include effective Bible study methods, mentoring, worship ministry development, teen ministry, campus ministry, biblically based support groups, and practical church planting. The goal is not simply to talk about disciplemaking, but to strengthen the “how” of disciplemaking so churches can help people follow Jesus and grow into mature disciples who also make disciples.
A.C.T.S. is commonly hosted at The Crossings Church St. Charles County in O’Fallon, Missouri, drawing participants from across the United States who are connected to churches of Christ and the Restoration Movement. For those who want to engage, Antioch Collective provides clear entry points: register to attend, bring a team from your congregation, subscribe for updates, and make use of the organization’s free resources (including a free Bible study guide, online lessons, and the Antioch Collective podcast) to continue learning beyond the seminar.
Key Links
Contact Information
Socials
Leadership
Church of ChristPolishing the Pulpit (PTP)Polishing the Pulpit (PTP) is a churches of Christ–associated Bible workshop that equips Christians and leaders…Church of Christ · Conferences
Polishing the Pulpit (PTP)
Polishing the Pulpit (PTP) — Organization Profile Polishing the Pulpit (PTP) is a large, lectureship-style workshop associated with churches of Christ, created to provide Bible-centered teaching and practical training for Christians and congregational leaders. What began as informal collaboration around…
Polishing the Pulpit (PTP) — Organization Profile Polishing the Pulpit (PTP) is a large, lectureship-style workshop associated with churches of Christ, created to provide Bible-centered teaching and practical training for Christians and congregational leaders. What began as informal collaboration around sermon preparation grew into a multi-track gathering that now serves thousands of attendees each year through concentrated classes, worship, and fellowship. PTP describes its focus as worshipping God, edifying His people, and educating/training His workers, functioning as continuing education for preachers and many others. PTP is organized around a wide range of class offerings intended to strengthen both knowledge of Scripture and everyday discipleship. The workshop schedule typically includes textual Bible studies, preaching and teaching instruction, evangelism and apologetics topics,…
Polishing the Pulpit (PTP) — Organization Profile
Polishing the Pulpit (PTP) is a large, lectureship-style workshop associated with churches of Christ, created to provide Bible-centered teaching and practical training for Christians and congregational leaders. What began as informal collaboration around sermon preparation grew into a multi-track gathering that now serves thousands of attendees each year through concentrated classes, worship, and fellowship. PTP describes its focus as worshipping God, edifying His people, and educating/training His workers, functioning as continuing education for preachers and many others.
PTP is organized around a wide range of class offerings intended to strengthen both knowledge of Scripture and everyday discipleship. The workshop schedule typically includes textual Bible studies, preaching and teaching instruction, evangelism and apologetics topics, and practical sessions that address home life, spiritual growth, and common challenges Christians face. The aim is not a single conference track, but a learning environment where attendees can choose sessions that match their roles, needs, and stage of life.
While PTP is often associated with preaching, the event is intentionally broad. PTP’s programming has long included specialized instruction for elders, deacons, and ministry workers, along with extensive class options for women, teens, and children. This “workshop for every member” approach has made it a gathering where entire families and church groups can participate together while still receiving age- and role-appropriate teaching.
Geographically, PTP hosts its primary annual gatherings in two settings: Branson, Missouri, and the Smoky Mountains region of Tennessee. Alongside the main events, PTP also runs PTP Spark, a smaller “mini-PTP” model hosted by local congregations in various locations. Spark events are designed to extend the training and encouragement of PTP in a smaller setting, making participation more accessible for those who cannot travel to the larger gatherings.
PTP also offers year-round access to teaching content through PTP365, an online audio/visual library that includes a large archive of sermons, Bible classes, and training sessions from past workshops. This resource is positioned as a usable library for individuals and congregations who want ongoing study and teaching tools beyond the annual events. Those who want to engage with PTP can attend a workshop, participate in a PTP Spark event, use PTP365 resources, subscribe to updates, and support the work through giving and scholarships.
Key Links
Contact Information
Socials
Leadership
ConferencesInternational Conference on Mission (ICOM)The International Conference on Missions (ICOM) is a nonprofit that connects churches and individuals with missionaries…Conferences · Independent Christian Church
International Conference on Mission (ICOM)
International Conference on Mission (ICOM) — Organization Profile The International Conference on Missions (ICOM) is a registered nonprofit 501(c)(3) that serves as an intersecting point for the Great Commission by encouraging, equipping, and enlisting workers for the Harvest. Launched in…
International Conference on Mission (ICOM) — Organization Profile The International Conference on Missions (ICOM) is a registered nonprofit 501(c)(3) that serves as an intersecting point for the Great Commission by encouraging, equipping, and enlisting workers for the Harvest. Launched in 1948, ICOM convenes missionaries, mission organizations, churches, colleges, and individuals for an annual conference focused on global missions connections and next steps in service. ICOM’s work centers on bringing the local church and global mission efforts into the same space. The annual conference typically includes a large exhibit hall with mission agencies and ministry partners, main sessions, workshops, and opportunities for churches and individuals to meet missionaries, learn about ministry pathways, and explore practical resourcing for cross-cultural witness. In addition…
International Conference on Mission (ICOM) — Organization Profile
The International Conference on Missions (ICOM) is a registered nonprofit 501(c)(3) that serves as an intersecting point for the Great Commission by encouraging, equipping, and enlisting workers for the Harvest. Launched in 1948, ICOM convenes missionaries, mission organizations, churches, colleges, and individuals for an annual conference focused on global missions connections and next steps in service.
ICOM’s work centers on bringing the local church and global mission efforts into the same space. The annual conference typically includes a large exhibit hall with mission agencies and ministry partners, main sessions, workshops, and opportunities for churches and individuals to meet missionaries, learn about ministry pathways, and explore practical resourcing for cross-cultural witness.
In addition to its annual gathering, ICOM describes itself as “ICOM is 365,” offering year-round connection and resourcing. The ICOM Community is designed to help bridge the gap between conferences through groups, stories, and ongoing networking around mission interests and best practices.
ICOM also operates and/or hosts several mission-adjacent services and initiatives connected to its broader equipping vision. These include EnterMission, a guided gap-year discipleship and missions experience, and mission-support services such as Tower Accounting (accounting and consulting services for mission-oriented nonprofits). ICOM also highlights the Center for Global Business, a hub for faith-driven entrepreneurs and business-minded leaders, and partners with additional ministries presented through its conference ecosystem.
The conference experience includes next-generation components. SICOM (Student International Conference on Missions) is the student track for grades 6–12, and ICOM Kids provides age-appropriate programming for children alongside the main conference, helping families and youth groups engage missions together.
ICOM is based in Clayton, Indiana, and its conference and community bring together participants and ministries serving global mission fields. In 2026, ICOM announced a leadership transition in which Rob Maupin will succeed long-time executive director David Empson later in the year, with Empson continuing to serve through the transition and as president of the 2026 gathering. Individuals and churches can engage by attending the annual conference, participating in the ICOM Community, partnering financially, and connecting directly with mission agencies and exhibitors through ICOM’s events and platforms.
Key Links
Contact Information
Socials
Leadership
ConferencesChrist in Youth (CIY)Christ in Youth (CIY) is a Joplin, Missouri-based ministry that partners with local churches through student…Conferences · Independent Christian Church
Christ in Youth (CIY)
Christ in Youth (CIY) — Organization Profile Christ in Youth (CIY) is a youth-ministry organization headquartered in Joplin, Missouri, that partners with local churches to help students follow Jesus and live out what CIY calls “Kingdom Work.” CIY traces its…
Christ in Youth (CIY) — Organization Profile Christ in Youth (CIY) is a youth-ministry organization headquartered in Joplin, Missouri, that partners with local churches to help students follow Jesus and live out what CIY calls “Kingdom Work.” CIY traces its beginnings to 1968, when Ozark Bible College professor Bob Stacy founded the ministry with a vision for presenting the gospel to young people in culturally relevant ways. Over time, CIY developed a nationwide event and resource strategy designed to support churches as they disciple preteens, middle schoolers, high school students, and youth leaders. CIY’s stated mission is to call youth to Christ and into a life of Kingdom Work through His Church. That focus shapes how CIY designs its experiences:…
Christ in Youth (CIY) — Organization Profile
Christ in Youth (CIY) is a youth-ministry organization headquartered in Joplin, Missouri, that partners with local churches to help students follow Jesus and live out what CIY calls “Kingdom Work.” CIY traces its beginnings to 1968, when Ozark Bible College professor Bob Stacy founded the ministry with a vision for presenting the gospel to young people in culturally relevant ways. Over time, CIY developed a nationwide event and resource strategy designed to support churches as they disciple preteens, middle schoolers, high school students, and youth leaders.
CIY’s stated mission is to call youth to Christ and into a life of Kingdom Work through His Church. That focus shapes how CIY designs its experiences: gatherings are built to serve church groups (not replace them), giving students shared moments with their peers and adult leaders, and helping youth leaders follow up in the months after an event. CIY also emphasizes a “core” framework that includes being rooted in the gospel, recognizing students as made for Kingdom Work, and staying connected to the church.
A major part of CIY’s work happens through its event programs. CIY describes SuperStart as a weekend event for preteens, MIX as a four-day summer event for middle school students, and MOVE as a five-day summer event for high school students. CIY Engage provides cross-cultural mission trips that train students for Kingdom Work through immersive service experiences. CIY also hosts Wilderness, a five-day retreat in the Rocky Mountains for youth ministers, and Youth Ministry Summit (YMS), a retreat designed to encourage and equip youth leaders.
Alongside events and trips, CIY develops tools meant to help churches maintain momentum between big gatherings. These include story-driven media and discipleship resources, CIY’s film and teaching content, and resources distributed through platforms like Convos and the FollowThrough app. CIY also publishes the Beyond the Event podcast and maintains a Facebook Community group as a space for youth leaders to learn and connect.
Churches and individuals can engage with CIY in several ways. Youth ministries can explore program options, find dates and locations, and register for events that fit their students’ age group and ministry calendar. Youth leaders can pursue training and connection through Wilderness, YMS, and community resources. Supporters can participate through giving options on CIY’s “Get Involved” pages, including targeted giving categories that CIY uses to expand capacity and support follow-through. CIY also offers opportunities to serve through summer event staffing and other roles, with job and application information available on its website.
