Webinars

Upcoming webinar

Fostering Faith in the Next Generation: Part 2—Prioritizing Gen Z

August 14, 2025 | 7:00-8:00 p.m. (Central)

Join us for our next webinar, “Fostering Faith in the Next Generation: Part 2—Prioritizing Gen Z.” We’ll delve into effective strategies for nurturing the spiritual lives of young adults. This pivotal age group grapples with unique challenges and opportunities as they embark on their journey of independence and self-discovery within their faith community. We’ll also explore practical methods to foster genuine connections and provide meaningful mentorship that keeps them connected to Jesus.

In addition, we’ll dive deep into the intricacies of ministering to this age group. Learn practical strategies for building authentic relationships, fostering spiritual growth, and creating a welcoming environment where young adults feel valued and heard. By investing in their spiritual development, churches can empower young adults to build a solid foundation of faith that will sustain them through life’s changes and challenges.

We’ll explore key topics such as:

  • preparing them for their next steps after high school
  • connecting them with a local church or campus ministry
  • offering support through your home congregation
  • learning how to address common questions and doubts
  • creating safe spaces for authentic dialogue and spiritual exploration

Our experienced panelists will share real-life examples and success stories, offering actionable insights that you can implement in your own circle of influence. Whether you’re a parent, church member, relative, or concerned Christian with a passion for this generation of believers, this webinar will equip you with valuable tools and resources to support and empower young adults on their faith journey.

Don’t miss this chance to connect with like-minded individuals who are dedicated to reaching and discipling the next generation. Register today* for this webinar and become part of a movement to establish strong, vibrant faith communities that embrace and uplift young adults. Together, let’s create a welcoming and supportive environment where they can flourish, grow, and emerge as the spiritual leaders of tomorrow.

Register now

*Why should you register?

Watching live has its benefits, like joining the conversation in the chat by adding your own ideas and insights. It’s a great way to connect with like-minded people! You can also ask questions of the panelists in the Q&A feature. Most importantly, only those who are registered will receive the follow-up e-mail with all the resources mentioned along with the first notification when the recorded webinar is posted. Whether you watch live or plan to watch the recording, register today!

Panelists

Rachel Halldorson
HOST | WELS Women’s Ministry Executive Team

Rachel is wife to Wayne (her favorite pastor) and mom to two amazing kids, William and Hosanna. She lives in East Texas where she serves as church secretary and works at the local public school. She also serves on the WELS Women’s Ministry Executive Board as the Congregational Ministries team leader (aka the CONGO team). This team connects women of our synod to resources, offers ministry encouragement to groups and individuals, and provides a platform for women to hear biblical conversation on relevant topics. They do this primarily through Connection Calls and women’s ministry webinars. Meeting fellow sisters in Christ and connecting them with each other by sharing their ideas and gifts is one of Rachel’s favorite things to do!

Jill Dunbar
PANELIST | St. Paul’s, Muskego, Wis.

Jill has been serving as co-director of Awake and Alive since 2016. She enjoys connecting with young adults and helping them grow in their faith through Awake and Alive’s events and online Bible study group. As a certified coach and accountant with more than 20 years of professional experience, she loves to meet with young adults individually to help them transition to the “adulting” phase of life spiritually, personally, and professionally. Jill also enjoys spending time with her husband, dogs, and horses and serves as a musician at her home congregation and with Mike Westendorf music.

Hailey Gurgel
PANELIST | Trinity, Watertown, Wis.

Hailey is a recent graduate of Carroll University in Waukesha, Wis., where she served on the board for WELS Campus Ministry. She was very involved in Campus Ministry and has a continued passion for how this age group can grow in faith with support through their future plans!

Ben Blumer
PANELIST | NorthCross Church, Lakeville, Minn.

Ben is the lead pastor at NorthCross. As part of his role, he leads their high school ministry, called NXT GEN. NXT GEN has grown from a ministry of about 10 students to 50-60 on any given weekend. Ben is married to Carrie, and they have four kids.

Jon Bilitz
PANELIST | Wisconsin Lutheran Chapel, Madison, Wis.

Jon serves as the campus pastor in Madison. Campus ministry has been part of his life for the last 18 years, first in La Crosse, Wis., and now in Madison. He appreciates the “front-row seat” to the Holy Spirit’s work in the lives of young people. He and his wife, Mary, have three adult children and one grandchild.

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