HOW WILL YOU LEAD?
REDEEMER LEAD CONFERENCE
February 19-20, 2027
faith & politics
navigating the tension
It’s never been more important for Christ-followers to be equipped to lead and navigate the intersection of faith and politics. The conversation is everywhere and the stakes are high.
With another presidential election on the horizon, we want to think biblically and rightly, leading others to do the same.
Some leaders have a tendency to make everything about politics – blurring Gospel-truths with personal political convictions. Others ignore politics completely – missing opportunities to advance the common good. Strong leaders will navigate this tension with conviction and clarity.
Come be a part of the conversation. Connect with other leaders. Consider what issues and questions people in your church or organization are facing. Continue to be equipped by this year’s incredible lineup of speakers. Then go be bold in the influence God has given you.
2027 Speakers
Andrew T. Walker
Dr. Walker serves as Associate Dean in the School of Theology, and Associate Professor of Christian Ethics and Public Theology. He is also the Director of the Carl F. H. Henry Institute for Evangelical Engagement. Additionally, he is a fellow in Christian Political Thought at the Ethics and Public Policy Center and serves as the Managing Editor of WORLD Opinions.
Erik Reed
Erik Reed is the lead pastor of The Journey Church in Lebanon. He is a host of The Bully Pulpit podcast, where he addresses political and theological issues from a Christian perspective. Eric also founded Knowing Jesus Ministries, a non-profit organization which exists to proclaim timeless truth for everyday life. He and his wife Katrina have three children: Kaleb (who went to be with the Lord), Kaleigh Grace, and Kyra Piper.
John Dirkse
John Dirkse is the Senior Pastor at Redeemer Church in Loves Park, IL, just outside of Rockford. John joined the staff of Redeemer Church as senior pastor in 2005. He has a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Divinity from the Masters University and Seminary. He married Betsey in 1993 and together they have five adult children and nine grandchildren.
Books
Check out some of the books written by or foreworded by our speaker:
2026 playlist
Schedule
Schedule is subject to change prior to conference.
Friday, February 19
| 12pm | Doors Open (Coffee/Bookstore/Market) (Popcorn Bar 12-4) |
| 1pm | Session 1: |
| 2pm | Break (Coffee/Bookstore/Market/Gym) |
| 2:30pm | Session 2: |
| 3:30pm | Break (Coffee/Bookstore/Market/Gym) |
| 4pm | Session 3: |
| 5pm | Dinner Break (On Own) |
| 5:30pm | VIP Dinner for VIP ticket holders |
| 7pm | Session 4: |
| 8:15pm | Fellowship & Dessert |
Saturday, February 20
| 8:30am | Doors Open (Coffee/Bookstore/Market) |
| 9:15am | Session 5: |
| 10:15am | Break (Coffee/Bookstore/Market/Gym) |
| 10:45am | Breakouts* |
| 11:30am | Lunch (Boxed, Signup) |
| 12:30pm | Breakouts* |
| 1:15pm | Break |
| 1:30pm | Session 6: |
| 2:30pm | Break (Coffee/Bookstore/Market/Gym) |
| 3pm | Session 7: |
| 4pm | Conference Ends |
Location
Redeemer Church
5501 Windsor Rd, Loves Park, IL
“Religious liberty is evidence of God’s common grace toward humanity in allowing for a modicum of social stability to continue amid the multitude of diversity in society.”
andrew t. walker
Registration & rates
Registration includes lunch on Saturday. Please note: We cannot offer any refunds after January 1.
Early-Bird Registration $99
Ends October 31 (price increases to $129 on November 1st
Registration includes lunch on Saturday.
Please note: we cannot offer any refunds after January 1.
VIP add-on $30
VIP dinner add-on with our speakers on Friday evening.
Please note: We cannot offer any refunds after January 1.
Student Registration $89
Currently in High School, College, Grad School, Seminary, Doctorate program.
Registration includes lunch on Saturday. Please note: We cannot offer any refunds after January 1.
FAQ
Who is this conference geared towards? Who should attend?
Redeemer Lead Conference is geared towards anyone who holds positions of influence: pastors, church ministry leaders, elders, deacons, business and non-profit leaders, educators, parents, etc. Do you have a position of leadership or influence in your community, school, or workplace? This conference is for you!
How far away are you from Chicago? Could I stay in the city and attend the conference?
We are about 75 miles, or 1.5 hours west of Chicago. We don’t recommend staying in Chicago on Friday night. However, if you wish to extend your stay, Chicago would be a great place to visit before or after the Lead Conference.
Can I attend just part of the conference?
We do not have a rate for attending only part of the conference. You are welcome to register for the whole thing and attend what you are able to.
Will there be childcare?
Childcare will not be provided. We recommend making arrangements as soon as you’re able.
Is your building accommodating for a wheelchair user?
It is, and we welcome you if that is the case. Our building is all on one single level, we have parking available near the doors of the building, and each of the public bathrooms have stalls that are accommodating for wheelchair use.
For additional questions, please fill out the form below or email us at info@redeemerleadconference.com.