Join small group leaders and pastors from across the Avalon and beyond, for a weekend of practical and meaningful learning on how to establish healthy small groups in your church context.

WHEN: Friday May 1st @ 7 PM and Saturday May 2nd @ 9 AM

WHERE: Bethesda - 1 Escasoni Place, St. John’s

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Friday, April 24th @ 12 PM

COST: Friday Only - $20.00, Saturday Only - $30.00, Friday & Saturday - $40.00
*Price includes a catered lunch on site. 

Please note that your registration is not complete without payment. Send your payment via EMT to give@bethesda.ca and be sure to include your name and “Small Group Conference” in the memo section.

Mikel Cowie is a Pastor and speaker, serving at North Pointe Church in Edmonton, AB as Groups Pastor. Mikel is married to the love of his life and has 2 young children. He is passionate about walking with people on their journey as they discover Real Hope, New Life, and a Lasting Purpose through Jesus Christ, and has a heart for communicating the message of Jesus in a relatable way for transformation. 

He brings experience in, small‑group leadership, discipleship and pastoral care, where he is passionate about equipping leaders to cultivate healthy communities. Mikel is a champion of the local church and understands its role in its unique ability to transform not just communities but generations.  As a lifelong learner, Mikel is committed to deepening his understanding of Scripture and finding ways to apply it to daily life. His passion lies in making a positive impact on others, equipping them to live out their faith authentically, and encouraging them to become who God has created them to be.

Conference SCHEDULE

Friday evening

Registration: Opens at 6:30 PM

Session one: 7 - 9 PM Our guest presenter: Mikel Cowie

This presentation will have a “night out” vibe. With live ambient music, along with dessert and coffee. It will be of special interest to pastors and board members.

Saturday

Registration Opens at 8:30 PM

Session 2: 9-10 AM Presenter: Pastor Mikel Cowie

Session 3: 10-11 AM Presenter Pastor Mikel Cowie

Breakout Session - Please choose one

Lunch: 12:00-12:30 PM (catered on site)

Breakout Session - Please choose one

Final Session: 1:30-2:00 PM Q & A with Pastor Mikel Cowie

Wrap up: 2-2:20 PM

Breakout Sessions

Topic 1 - Janice Daley : Trauma-Informed Discipleship: Helping People Follow Jesus When Their Stories Still Hurt

This workshop explores how trauma and life experiences shape discipleship itself. Many people arrive in our groups carrying unseen stories that influence how they hear Scripture, respond to correction, and engage in community. This session blends biblical insight, practical neuroscience, and small group leadership principles to help leaders disciple in ways that cultivate safety, trust, and meaningful spiritual growth. It also addresses the growing challenge of cultural and digital influences that shape people’s beliefs before they ever arrive at church.

Topic 2 - Sheri Thomas and Melissa Morgan: Sharing Circle (Limited to 10 people)

In this training session participants will be guided through a structured group conversation where they can openly share thoughts, experiences, and reflections in an authentic space with mutual learning. This circle will be used to build unity and connection; reflect on and learn from our various small group experiences; encourage one another and discern insights together in a Christ-centered environment.

Topic 3 - Ralph Cann: Using the Bible in Small Groups

How can we use Small Groups as a place where to develop and build Biblical Literacy?

Topic 4 - Jona Carasco: Tech in Small Groups

Particular attention to how to use Church Center and Planning Center