A conference designed to show Lutherans how to start a congregation with a child-care center will be held Nov. 2-4 in Las Vegas.
The conference is sponsored by the Open Arms Institute, a ministry that fosters and guides “Lutheran church planting with child care.” Co-hosting the conference will be Faith Community Lutheran Church, Las Vegas, which operates an elementary school and early-childhood program.
Conference speakers will explain the “church planting with child care” concept, including the process for starting such a ministry, and how to assure a quality program and financial success. Participants also will tour the child-care facility at Faith and talk with those who are involved in the ministry.
The conference is open to pastors, district and congregational leaders, parents, early-childhood professionals and anyone with an interest in planting a church with a child-care center.
The Open Arms strategy has been used to start more than 30 congregations with child-care centers nationwide, according to Martin Barlau, executive director
of the Open Arms Institute.
Registration for those without Open Arms membership is $245 (Open Arms members receive a discount). Lodging is available for $70 per night at the Suncoast Hotel.
For more information, or to request a registration form, contact Martin Barlau at (970) 988-6064 or openarms-cc@juno.com.
Posted Oct. 4, 2004