Polishing the Pulpit - Branson 2026: Full Schedule

3:45pm CDT

When the Home Is Broken—and the Heart Is Too: Ministering to Youth Who Come from Broken and/or Parentless Homes

Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:45pm - 4:30pm CDT

Many teens are carrying wounds formed long before they ever walked into a church building—absent parents, unstable homes, shifting caregivers, or a deep sense of not being chosen. This session explores how those experiences shape trust, authority, faith, and behavior. We will talk about what not to assume, what Scripture does and does not promise, and how youth workers can offer stability, presence, and hope without trying to replace what has been lost.

Speakers

Daniel Webster

Associate/Youth Minister, Mabelvale Church of Christ

Daniel is originally from Jacksonville, Alabama. (Some would call him an obnoxious Alabama Crimson Tide fan.) He graduated from the Memphis School of Preaching and Amridge University and is currently finishing up (i.e., "stressing through") three master's degrees (Master’s of Divinity... Read More →

Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:45pm - 4:30pm CDT
Short Creek 4

Youth Workers

3:00pm CDT

Advice for Bonding With Teens Who Don't Want to Be There

Thursday July 16, 2026 3:00pm - 3:30pm CDT

Roark Creek

Speakers

Ande Zimmerman

Associate Minister, Logan Martin church of Christ

Ande Zimmerman has worked in youth and family ministry for more than twenty years. He has spent most of his time in ministry serving the Logan Martin church of Christ in Pell City, AL. He currently serves as the associate minister with a focus on strengthening young families, and... Read More →

Thursday July 16, 2026 3:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Roark Creek

Youth Workers

3:45pm CDT

Six Ways to Keep Teens Coming Back: Practical Keys for Building a Youth Ministry That Sticks

Friday July 17, 2026 3:45pm - 4:30pm CDT

Short Creek 4

Speakers

Billy Hayes

minister, Adamsville church of Christ

Billy Hayes is a 2005 graduate of the Memphis School of Preaching. He has been married to Brandi since 2001. His oldest daughter, Emma Cantrell, was recently married and living in Tennessee. His younger daughter, Chloe Hayes, attends the University of Alabama. He is the local preacher... Read More →

Friday July 17, 2026 3:45pm - 4:30pm CDT
Short Creek 4

Youth Workers