In a world where “gossip” is often associated with harmful whispers and idle chatter, the 2025 Center for Missions and Evangelism (CME) Conference invites you to reclaim the word in its older, richer sense—sharing good news joyfully and naturally. Hosted by Mid-America Reformed Seminary, this year’s theme, Gossiping the Gospel: Everyday Evangelism, calls Christians back to a kind of evangelism that’s personal, relational, and deeply rooted in ordinary life.
Taking place October 3–4, 2025, at Bethel Church in Lansing, Illinois, this conference will equip believers with biblical insight and practical tools to share their faith in the everyday rhythms of life. Whether you’re a pastor, a small group leader, a missionary, or simply someone who wants to be more faithful in evangelism, this event is designed for you.
A Relational Approach to Evangelism
At its core, the conference is about rediscovering the natural, conversational way that the gospel can—and should—be shared. Rather than treating evangelism as a formal script or sales pitch, Gossiping the Gospel champions a return to the kind of evangelism that happens at the dinner table, over coffee, during a walk, or in a quiet moment with a friend. The goal is to equip Christians to speak of Christ as easily and eagerly as they might share good news about a job promotion, a new baby, or a beautiful day.
This theme will be explored through a series of keynote talks and panel discussions that focus on:
– Conversational Evangelism: How to weave gospel truths into the fabric of daily conversation.
– Hospitality: Creating welcoming spaces that open doors for gospel witness.
– Sharing a Testimony: Telling your own faith story in a compelling and authentic way.
– Overcoming Barriers: Navigating cultural resistance, fear of rejection, and other common challenges in evangelism.
A Thoughtful and Practical Lineup
The Conference will bring together a diverse and experienced group of speakers, all of whom are passionate about helping Christians share their faith effectively and winsomely. Speakers include:
– Ken Anema, Professor of Old Testament and Dean at Divine Hope Reformed Bible Seminary.
– Andrew Compton, Professor of Old Testament Studies at Mid-America Reformed Seminary.
– Eric Hausler, Pastor of Christ the King Church in Naples, Florida.
– Donna Hausler, Chaplain Office Administrator at the Naples Jail.
– Ted Powers, Director of the Midwest Alliance, a PCA church planting organization.
– Mark Vander Hart, Associate Professor of Old Testament Studies (Emeritus) at Mid-America Reformed Seminary.
– Eric Watkins, Director of the Center for Missions and Evangelism.
Each speaker brings a unique voice to the conversation, and together they provide a rich blend of theological depth and practical application.
An Event Designed for Presence
One of the defining features of our conference is its commitment to being an in-person experience. In an age where digital convenience often takes priority, the decision not to livestream the event is intentional. Face-to-face fellowship, spontaneous hallway conversations, and shared worship are all integral parts of the conference’s purpose to foster community and encouragement in ways that digital platforms can’t replicate.
To make the experience even more accessible, discounted hotel rates have been arranged at Homewood Suites and Hampton Inn in nearby Munster, Indiana. Attendees are encouraged to book their rooms before the September 1, 2025, cutoff to secure the special rate.
A Special Offer for byFaith Subscribers
For readers of byFaith, we’re pleased to offer a special discounted registration rate through the month of June. If you’re a subscriber, you can take advantage of this exclusive offer by registering through this link.
Individual Admission — $99.00 $175
Family Admission (2 or more in same household) — $179.00 $300
MARS Alumni: Individual — $79.00 $125
MARS Alumni: Couple/Family — $125.00 $200
Don’t Miss This Opportunity
Evangelism doesn’t have to be intimidating. It doesn’t require memorizing scripts or mastering apologetic arguments. It can—and should—flow from the heart, as naturally as we share any other good news. The 2025 CME National Conference is your opportunity to be refreshed and better equipped to “gossip the gospel” in your daily life.
Mark your calendar, register today, and join us in Lansing this October.
