NASHVILLE, Tenn., June 21, 2016 \u2013 While pursuing a field of study to help prepare for a traditional career, many of today\u2019s college students are searching for ways to combine their faith, gifts and passions to make an immediate impact in their communities. However, as students pursue this call, they may find limited resources to support them in their faith and leadership development.<\/p>\n
Created out of The United Methodist Student Movement,\u00a0Imagine What\u2019s NEXT<\/a><\/em>encourages and supports students who dream of making a difference in the world right now for Christ. As the NEXT community grows and connects across the globe, it will serve as a pool of partners, perspectives, and resources to assist individuals in their faith and leadership development.<\/p>\n The NEXT community will gather November 4-6, 2016 in Atlanta\u2019s historic Tabernacle Theater for\u00a0NEXT 2016<\/a>. This event is designed to equip students with the skills needed to merge and connect their gifts with innovative discipleship, and effect immediate change within their communities. Launched in 2012, NEXT is organized by a \u201cdream team\u201d consisting of college students, campus ministers and other creative disciples from across the United Methodist connection. NEXT is sponsored by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry\u2019s (GBHEM) Office of Collegiate Ministry.<\/p>\n \u201cNEXT is a unique gathering of young adults who are discerning, or reimagining, ways to pursue their desire to make a difference in the world. It is a dynamic space where faith and action intersect with creativity and passion,\u201d said Rev. Sheila Bates director of student faith and leadership formation at GBHEM. \u201cNEXT is more than an event, it\u2019s a movement! We are providing access to experts and resources in a supportive environment where students can recharge, renew and Imagine What\u2019s NEXT.\u201d<\/p>\n The\u00a0NEXT schedule<\/a>\u00a0includes dynamic worship, innovative community gatherings, creative exhibitors, and connections to some of Atlanta\u2019s most respected community experts, advocates and service organizations. Main stage speakers include worldwide traveling peacemaker, Shane Claiborne; sought after communicator and community strategist, Romal Tune; and global advocate for water rights, Farhana Sultana. The Saturday night featured musical artist is the highly acclaimed band, Stars Go Dim. Community partners providing service-learning opportunities include the Atlanta Community Food Bank, The Center for Civil and Human Rights, The Carter Library, and The King Center.<\/p>\n Students, campus ministers, chaplains, religious nonprofit or business leaders who have a creative idea, ministry or social entrepreneurial plan, or gift in the arts to share with participants are encouraged to apply to present a Ted style talk, lead worship or share their creative talents during NEXT. Travel expenses and free registration for NEXT will be provided for those selected.<\/p>\n To sign up, visit the\u00a0registration site<\/a>. Register before June 30 to use discount code EARLYBIRD and take $50 off registration fees. To apply as a\u00a0speaker<\/a>,\u00a0band, artist<\/a>\u00a0orexhibitor<\/a>, complete the online application. For more information or help completing your application, visit the NEXT website at\u00a0www.nextumc.org<\/a>\u00a0or contact Sheila Bates at\u00a0sbates@gbhem<\/a>\u00a0or (615) 340-7570.<\/p>\n About GBHEM: As the leadership development agency of The United Methodist Church, the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry\u2019s mission is to prepare global leaders for a global church and the world. Every elder, deacon and licensed local pastor benefits from our training and candidacy programs. Many young adults find help in clarifying their vocation and God\u2019s call on their lives through our leadership and discernment programs. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook: @GBHEM.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" NASHVILLE, Tenn., June 21, 2016 \u2013 While pursuing a field of study to help prepare for a traditional career, many of today\u2019s college students are searching for ways to combine their faith, gifts and passions to make an immediate impact in their communities. 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