MINISTRY GUESTS

Kathy Zelman | Edmonton, AB

Kathy has served in ministry for over 30 years, specializing in Children’s Ministries, Evangelism, and Pastoral Care. She’s passionate about reaching kids and families with the Gospel and finds great joy in seeing people grow in their faith. Kathy has pastored in a wide range of church contexts and is nearing completion of her MA in Leadership, Theology, and Systems, where she has focused on empowering leaders and teams. She loves adventuring with her family: her husband Perry, adult children Zachary and Aleena, son-in-law Ryan, and their little dog Mikko.

Austin Toews | Edmonton, AB

Austin Toews is a Children’s Pastor at Hope City Church in Edmonton, overseeing ministry from birth through grade six. With over a decade of church and district leadership experience, he is passionate about helping kids encounter Jesus, supporting families, and equipping volunteers. Previously, Austin served with the PAOC BCYD office, coaching children’s ministry leaders across British Columbia. He lives in Edmonton with his wife, Becca, and their children, Gus and Lucy.

Ben & Heather Johnson | Calgary, AB

Ben is the Lead Pastor at First Assembly in Calgary, Alberta. He and his wife Heather have served in pastoral and apostolic ministry for over 30 years, carrying a deep burden for Canada, especially the unchurched and the next generation. Passionate about seeing a fresh move of the Holy Spirit, they believe the Canadian church’s best days are ahead. Ben counts it a privilege to serve Jesus and the city of Calgary.

Sintia Kraushaar | Cold Lake, AB

Sintia has served as Children’s Pastor at Cold Lake Community Church for 17 years. She is passionate about equipping youth leaders and creating engaging, youth-led environments where children encounter God through Scripture, discussion, and hands-on activities. Sintia loves studying the Bible with children and is committed to helping people of all ages grow in their relationship with Christ and serve Him faithfully.

Carolyn Wentzel | Edmonton, AB

Carolyn Wentzel has the privilege of serving as the Children's Pastor at Beacon Church, formerly known as City South Church. She is deeply passionate about sharing the gospel with kids in creative and engaging ways, always striving to build meaningful connections with each child. There's no greater joy than witnessing kids grow in their faith and experience God's love firsthand. 

Amy Skinner | Calgary, AB

Amy Skinner is passionate about building sustainable, Jesus-centered ministries and developing leaders. With 15 years of experience in Children’s Ministry, she has led volunteer teams of over 100 people and helped build a thriving Kids Camp team at Sunnyside Camp. Holding a Master’s degree in non-profit leadership and education, Amy brings practical expertise in creating safe, engaging camps that inspire kids and leaders to return year after year.

Naomi Rutagwena | Edmonton, AB

Naomi Rutagwena is the Youth Manager at Kids On Track, a Christian charity serving children, youth, and families in Edmonton. A former participant, Naomi experienced the program’s impact firsthand and now leads youth programming, creating safe, welcoming spaces for young people to build relationships, grow in leadership, and explore their faith. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Child and Youth Care and is passionate about helping youth develop confidence, resilience, and a strong foundation in Christ.

Christine Ross | Stony Plain, AB

Christine is a compassionate, purpose-driven leader who believes lasting impact is built through trust, authentic connection, and empowered teams. Known for her approachable leadership style, she prioritizes well-being, collaboration, and environments where people can flourish. Alongside her work in education, Christine serves as Children’s Ministry Leader and a Council member at Kingdom Advance Church in Stony Plain, Alberta.

Crystal Henderson | Beaumont, AB

Crystal is a Next-Gen Life Coach with over a decade of experience supporting children, teens, and families. Using faith-based principles and practical emotional tools—including the Stoplight Approach—she helps young people navigate anxiety, grief, and major life transitions. Previously, Crystal served 13 years as Children and Family Pastor at Eaglemont Christian Church and partnered with schools and community organizations to support family wellness.

Josh Dewling | Edmonton, AB

Josh Dewling is the Executive Director of Kids On Track, a Christian charity serving children, youth, and families across Edmonton. Josh is passionate about strengthening families, developing young leaders, and creating programs that provide hope, direction, and ongoing support. Josh is married to his wife, Ainslay, and together they are raising their three children: Emmy, Nora, and Tommy.

Sean Anderson | Edmonton, AB

Sean Anderson has dedicated his career to teaching, equipping, and mentoring the next generation. He is currently on the faculty at Vanguard College in Edmonton as the Children’s Specialist where he has served since 2011. Prior to that he was a children’s pastor in Calgary, Manitoba, and Southern Ontario. He is married to Faith and together they are the proud parents of three amazing kids.

Len Den Braber | Langley, BC

Len DenBraber brings over 25 years of pastoral leadership to his role as COO at Focus on the Family Canada. Previously, he served churches and ministry leaders across the country, mentoring emerging leaders and cultivating healthy teams. Known for blending practical leadership with a pastor’s heart, Len is passionate about families and believes children’s ministry leaders are real heroes. He and his wife, Leanne, have three adult children and three grandchildren,and hope for more!

Angie Clarke | Edmonton, AB

Angie Clark is an Early Childhood Educator with over 25 years of experience in community and church settings and currently serves as Director at McKernan Child Development Centre. She is passionate about sharing God’s love with children in authentic ways and creating inviting, play-based environments where children can learn through discovery.

Lisa Sarafinchan | Edmonton, AB

Lisa Sarafinchan is a level 3 Early Childhood Educator and currently works at McKernan Child Development Centre, where she has been for the past four years. Previously she served on staff at Hope City Church for 7 years as the Early Childhood Director. She is passionate about bringing Bible-Based curriculum to life through stories, activities and art in a way that preschoolers are excited to learn about Jesus. She has four adult children and two delightful grandchildren.   

Cheryl Andringa | Beaumont, AB

Cheryl Andringa has 15 years of experience in early childhood education and serves as Preschool Director at Eaglemont Christian Church in Beaumont, Alberta. She is passionate about creating welcoming environments where children and families can learn, grow, and encounter Christ. Eaglemont is preparing to open Little Eagle Community Preschool in fall 2026. Outside of work, Cheryl enjoys time with her husband, Allan, and their three children, and delights in seeing them grow in their faith.

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Cost: $50/person

Registration Deadline April 4, 2025