EQUIPPING LABS

Equipping Labs are your chance to dive deeper into specific topics in an interactive way so you can gain practical wisdom and tools for living all of life in light of the gospel when you return home.


Tuesday, July 14

God Notices: Justice, Compassion and the Heart of God (Tyrone Christoph & Victor Corrales)

2:30 p.m. | Room 2105

Through interactive discussion, creative activities and engagement with Psalm 146:6–10, students will explore God’s heart for justice, compassion and care for those who feel overlooked, burdened or unseen. This workshop will challenge students to recognize injustice around them and respond with the love, courage and compassion of Jesus in their schools, friendships and communities.

Is God Calling Me to Ministry or Missions? (Mike Szoradi)

1:00 p.m. | Room 2105

Have you ever wondered if God might be calling you into ministry or missions? If so, how do you know for sure if He is or not? These are questions many young people today are wondering about but often don’t know where to turn to get answers. If you are wrestling with these questions, this lab is for you. Join us for a conversation about calling, God’s design on your life and the Great Commission.

No Question Off Limits (Val O'Brien)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2103C

Let’s talk about the real stuff. What questions do you have about God, faith and life? What questions do you have about how those are supposed to work together? Bring your questions, your friends’ questions, their friends’ questions and any topic you want to hear more about. Jesus loves to meet us right where we’re at—so no question is off limits!

Reclaiming the Power of Our Words (Taylor Walling)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2103A

The words we speak are more than tools to communicate—they have great power. Proverbs 18:21 says, “The tongue has the power of life and death.” Our words can fuel hope or snuff it out, build others up or tear them down, bring truth or lies, blessings or curses. It’s time to rediscover the immense power of our words and use that power each day in ways that honor God and bless others.

Understanding Addictions: Navigating a Difficult Journey with Truth and Grace (Gina Loe)

1:00 p.m. | Room 2101

Addictions can take many forms, from substances to smartphones. But when does a habit become an addiction? In this seminar, we'll explore the various types of addiction and learn how to distinguish them from everyday habits in ourselves and others. Join us to understand how addiction affects individuals who are struggling, and also those around them, and learn how your faith can be a source of hope and healing for those in need.

Forgiving 70x7: Embracing Radical Forgiveness and God’s Grace (Gina Loe)

2:30 p.m. | Room 2101

The Bible calls us to forgive just as God forgives us, but this can be a challenging command to follow. In this seminar, we explore questions like: Should I forgive someone who broke my pencil or my trust or my heart? Together, we'll talk about the hurdles to forgiveness and practical steps to overcome bitterness and resentment, even when it feels impossible—when the hurt feels too great. We will look at what the Bible says on forgiveness and discuss how to apply them in everyday situations, big and small. Join us to discover what it means to forgive radically and experience the grace that God offers to everyone.

Becoming Friends Who Follow Jesus Together (Mark O'Brien)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2104

What does it look like to follow Jesus together as friends? We will take a look at this and give you hands-on, practical ideas to help you build God-empowered friendships.

The Psalms: The Christians’ Songbook (Greg Strand)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2103B

The Psalms teach us about God in all His fullness and faithfulness; they give expression to all of life’s experiences and accompanying responses; they model for us how we think, feel, live, and respond in our own situation and circumstance based on the truth of God; and they prepare us for the One who is truly blessed, the One who truly delights in the law of Lord day and night, the One who is pronounced blessed in the words “this is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Matt. 3:17; 17:5), and the One in and through whom we are blessed, Jesus Christ. This is what makes the Psalms unique, what resonates with Christians through time and what we will learn in real time.


Wednesday, July 15

God Notices: Justice, Compassion and the Heart of God (Tyrone Christoph & Victor Corrales)

2:30 p.m. | Room 2105

Through interactive discussion, creative activities and engagement with Psalm 146:6–10, students will explore God’s heart for justice, compassion and care for those who feel overlooked, burdened or unseen. This workshop will challenge students to recognize injustice around them and respond with the love, courage and compassion of Jesus in their schools, friendships and communities.

Is God Calling Me to Ministry or Missions? (Mike Szoradi)

1:00 p.m. | Room 2105

Have you ever wondered if God might be calling you into ministry or missions? If so, how do you know for sure if He is or not? These are questions many young people today are wondering about but often don’t know where to turn to get answers. If you are wrestling with these questions, this lab is for you. Join us for a conversation about calling, God’s design on your life and the Great Commission.

Making Sense of the Bible’s Teachings on Sex (Jennifer Kvamme)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2103B

Lately, the Bible has gotten a bad rap about its teachings on sexuality and gender. Many people think God hates gay people or that the Bible’s teachings on sexuality are outdated and harmful or that Christians think sex is bad. But what if there’s a lot more to the story? What if the Bible is more of a love story than a list of rules, and God’s instructions are really the way to joy and freedom? Let’s dig into the Bible together to see what God really says, why sex matters and why Jesus really is good news.

Becoming Friends Who Follow Jesus Together (Mark O'Brien)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2104

What does it look like to follow Jesus together as friends? We will take a look at this and give you hands-on, practical ideas to help you build God-empowered friendships.

Spiritual Warfare and the Christian Life (Eric Rivera)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2103A

A spiritual battle wages around us and all too often many believers are unaware. This workshop takes a look at the nature of this cosmic conflict and how followers of Jesus engage the battle.

Rehearsal for Student Choir (Local Sound)

1:00 p.m. | Great Hall 3501

Join our worship leaders on the stage! Jared Runion from Local Sound will direct a student choir to lead worship during the Wednesday evening Gathering. Limit of 100 students.

Understanding Addictions: Navigating a Difficult Journey with Truth and Grace (Gina Loe)

1:00 p.m. | Room 2101

Addictions can take many forms, from substances to smartphones. But when does a habit become an addiction? In this seminar, we'll explore the various types of addiction and learn how to distinguish them from everyday habits in ourselves and others. Join us to understand how addiction affects individuals who are struggling, and also those around them, and learn how your faith can be a source of hope and healing for those in need.

Forgiving 70x7: Embracing Radical Forgiveness and God’s Grace (Gina Loe)

2:30 p.m. | Room 2101

The Bible calls us to forgive just as God forgives us, but this can be a challenging command to follow. In this seminar, we explore questions like: Should I forgive someone who broke my pencil or my trust or my heart? Together, we'll talk about the hurdles to forgiveness and practical steps to overcome bitterness and resentment, even when it feels impossible—when the hurt feels too great. We will look at what the Bible says on forgiveness and discuss how to apply them in everyday situations, big and small. Join us to discover what it means to forgive radically and experience the grace that God offers to everyone.

Japanese Culture and Fun (The Japanese Youth Group at Challenge)

1:00 p.m. | ReachGlobal 2200 Lobby

Hear about Japanese culture from Japanese students and their leaders. In this relaxed and interactive Equipping Lab, you’ll learn the art of origami and have the opportunity to write your name or other words in Japanese characters. We’ll also explore aspects of Japanese culture and the context of the church in Japan. Come with curiosity and questions!

Youth Worker Prayer Time

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2102B

Dallas Willard said, “Hurry is the great enemy of spiritual life in our day. You must ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your life.” This time slot has been set aside for you to help you slow down and eliminate hurry from your life. This space is a gift for you. There will be members from the Prayer Pacesetters available for you to pray with. Nate “N8” Stenholtz, the student ministries director for the Great Lakes District, will also be available if you need someone to pray for you or simply share your heart or heartache with. Come and just be in the Lord's presence.

More Than a Follower (Kevin Boaz)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2103C

Most people think influence is about followers, platforms or being seen. But real influence has nothing to do with any of that. You were sent by God on purpose with specific gifts, personality and experiences. Whether you realize it or not, you have real influence at your school, on your team and in your friend group. In this lab, we take tools and training used by ReachNetwork in church planting to help you discover:

  • How God has uniquely designed you to impact others
  • Where you already have influence in your everyday life
  • Practical steps to start living with intention this week

Thursday, July 15

Open Book: Learning to Study the Bible with Confidence (Kendal Conner)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2104

Have you ever opened your Bible and not known where to start? You're not alone, and this lab is designed just for you! Bible study can feel intimidating. Maybe you have tried but walked away still confused. Maybe it feels like one more thing to add to your already full plate. In this lab, we will pull back the curtain on Scripture: what it is, where it came from and why you can stake your life on it. But we won’t just talk about the Bible; we will study it together! You will leave with real tools for studying the Bible that we pray give you real confidence to open your Bible and know that you can understand it. Because the truth is—of all the voices competing for your attention on a daily basis— there is only one that actually has the power to change you. Let’s open the Bible together!

Tell Your Story: Make Jesus the Hero (Keri Early)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2101

Stories are powerful—and meant to be told. In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn how good stories work, practice telling one using a simple story spine and begin shaping your own story in light of the big story of the Bible—with Jesus as the hero.

Hearing God’s Voice (Daniel Olson)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2103B

How do I know when God is speaking to me? How do I experience a more conversational relationship with God? How can I experience God’s leading day by day? Come and learn about discerning God’s voice in your life.

Your Story Matters (Nate Stenholtz)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2105

Students will discover how to help their non-Christian friends find and follow Jesus, with a special emphasis on helping students write and share their faith story in ways that matter in their world today. Be sure to read Revelation 12:10-12 (NIV) if you are still wondering if this is the right Equipping Lab for you.

For Leaders: Credentialing: A Critical Way to Ensure Doctrinal Fidelity and Moral Faithfulness in the EFCA (Greg Strand)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2102B

In the EFCA, credentialing is important because it is one of the primary ways of safeguarding doctrinal/theological integrity and denominational confessional concord (through the Statement of Faith), and also safeguarding the doctrinal and moral health of pastors, ministers and those in qualifying ministries. Additionally, credentialing is also one of the ways of ensuring accountability of pastors and ministers, especially in today’s culture where doctrinal integrity is questioned and misuse and abuse of the ministerial role has caused harm. In this lab, we will learn about the importance of credentialing, and if you are in a qualifying ministry, come and learn about next steps in receiving a credential.

What You Might Have Missed About Jesus (Jeremy Carr)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2103A

Jesus didn’t own a house, get married, play club ball, travel the world or chase status— and somehow, He was the fullest, most complete human who ever lived. In this interactive lab, we’ll take a fresh look at the humanity of Jesus by exploring both what He did and didn’t do. Along the way, we’ll wrestle with what actually matters in life, what culture tells us should matter and why Jesus is more than just an example to follow—He’s the Savior we need.

For Big Dreamers (Local Sound)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2103C

Join worship leader Jared Runion from our worship band, Local Sound, to discuss why God cares about the spiritual formation of your imagination.


Friday, July 17

Evangelism Even Here: Seeing God at Work in Your Friends’ Stories (Travis Holtan)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2101

God is not far away from your school, your team, your friend group or your hardest conversations. He is near— even here. In this lab, we’ll use the Apex Trail Guide to help you recognize where your friends may be on their journey with God and how to respond with wisdom, love and purpose. You’ll learn six phases of the journey and discover practical ways to ask better questions, listen well and point your friends toward Jesus.

Kiddie Pool Lifeguard: How to Be a Leader, Even in the Small Things of Life (Don Mattson)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2105

Being a leader doesn’t mean you are only in charge of BIG things. It means you are faithfully serving and honoring God in the small, medium and big things that He has put in your life. In this workshop, we will take a look at Jesus’ Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25) and talk about how to be an intentional leader in every setting, reflecting Christ, as we steward the things God has given us. WARNING: This lab might include water, pool noodles, flying beach balls and a rubber duck named Sprinkles.

Open Book: Learning to Study the Bible with Confidence (Kendal Conner)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2104

Have you ever opened your Bible and not known where to start? You're not alone, and this lab is designed just for you! Bible study can feel intimidating. Maybe you have tried but walked away still confused. Maybe it feels like one more thing to add to your already full plate. In this lab, we will pull back the curtain on Scripture: what it is, where it came from and why you can stake your life on it. But we won’t just talk about the Bible; we will study it together! You will leave with real tools for studying the Bible that we pray give you real confidence to open your Bible and know that you can understand it. Because the truth is—of all the voices competing for your attention on a daily basis— there is only one that actually has the power to change you. Let’s open the Bible together!

Even Here: When “Here” Looks More Like “There” (Panel of ReachGlobal Missionaries)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2103C

Are you curious what life looks like for a cross-cultural missionary? What does it mean to voluntarily enter into the unknown? Come hear stories from our very own ReachGlobal missionaries who serve in various contexts around the world. They will share their stories, what it's been like and their advice for discerning and following God's call for your own life. You'll have a chance to ask your own questions, too.

God, Is That You? (Stephen Love)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2103A

Every day, we’re faced with decisions about friendships, dating, college, careers and our walk with Christ. With so many voices competing for our attention, including our own, discerning what God is saying can be hard. This lab will help you learn how God speaks through His Word and how to discern His voice amidst the noise, desires and distractions of everyday life.

Biblical Identity in Our Strange World (Luther Eatman & Lige Reed)

1 & 2:30 p.m. | Room 2103B

Who are you? How does someone even begin to answer that question when the world around us serves up identities like an ice cream shop does flavor combinations? Although the world around us tells us to choose our identity based on how we feel in any given moment, the Bible tells us something completely different. So if you are looking for some help fighting through the confusion in our strange world, come and spend time with us as we dig into the Bible for timeless truths.

Subscribe to the Challenge Newsletter

Stay up-to-date with news, stories and resources related to Challenge 2026 in Kansas City.

Subscribe

* indicates required