Nexus | Ministry Leadership Conference

Christian Leadership in Times of Crisis

Monday, February 8, 2027 | 8:15 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Location: Pilgrim Chapel, DBU Campus

Crisis moments refuse to wait to abide by our calendars. Instead, they show up seemingly out of nowhere, ready to disrupt your goals, your plans, and your every day schedule. Whether it is a tragedy in the organization, a scandal that you have to navigate, or an attack from an outside voice, the crisis hits, and we have to react.

But how can you respond in the midst of the crisis in a way that not only maintains your vision and mission, but also reflects the character and person of Christ? How can you lead like Jesus through the storm?

Join us on Monday, February 8, 2027, as we will hear from representatives of Pinkston, a nationally recognized communications strategy organization that specializes in navigating crisis moments for non-profit and faith-based organizations. In addition, we will hear from other Christian leaders who will discuss the intricacies of crisis leadership, including how to spiritually engage the storm, how to handle all of the other practical responsibilities in the midst of the storm, and how to lead others through the storm, all while pointing to Jesus.

Early Bird Registration for this event is $8 per person, which helps to cover the cost of lunch and snacks. Group discounts are available for ministries bringing 5 or more.

Current DBU students and Ministry Fellowship Program partners receive a special discount for the conference. Complete this form to receive a complimentary registration.

REGISTER

Monday,
February 8, 2027

8:15 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Early Bird Rate $8/person
Discounts for current DBU students and MFP partners

(see below)

Speakers for our 2027 Nexus Conference

Christian Pinkston Christian Pinkston specializes in crisis and conflict management situations. Having founded Pinkston in 2001, Christian regularly contracts with Fortune 500 companies providing consultation through critical leadership moments. Whether in larger corporate America companies or smaller 501c3 organizations, Christian helps teams communicate strategically and lead successfully through these critical moments in the life of your company or organization.

Nathan Burchfiel serves as Senior Vice President at Pinkston, where he helps to guide communication strategies and crisis management for Pinkston’s wide array of clients. A noted writer, researcher, and editor, Nathan provides his insight for a number of news outlets, as well non-profit, Chrisitan organizations.

2026 Nexus Conference

Leading from Rest: Caring for Your Soul while Serving

Monday, February 2, 2026 | 8:15 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Barry Jones
Location: Pilgrim Chapel, DBU Campus

Watch Recordings for our 2026 Nexus Conference

There is a burden that comes with leadership - budgets, deadlines, conflicts, misunderstandings, competing priorities, new directions, personnel issues, communication miscues, and the list goes on and on. In the midst of the onslaught of demands, it can seem impossible to prioritize your own needs.

How can someone lead like Jesus and maintain their calling without becoming a casualty of the chaos?

For our 2026 Nexus Ministry Leadership Conference, we explored what it means to be a Christ-centered, others-focused leader while still caring for our soul.

Our keynote speaker was Dr. Barry Jones, senior pastor of Irving Bible Church and author of Dwell: Life with God for the World. Dr. Jones is a former professor of spiritual formation and pastoral theology at Dallas Theological Seminary. His background provides a unique perspective of someone who has both studied deeply the concepts of spiritual health and well-being while practically living out these concepts within in the local church.