Q conference

This past week I had the opportunity to volunteer at and attend the majority of the Q conference that was held in Chicago this year. Skipping three days of classes has never been so worth it. Q is all about bringing together cultural leaders to explore how the gospel is and can further be expressed in culture. In their own words it’s about exposure, conversation, and collaboration.

This year’s conference was held in the Civic Opera House—an absolutely breath taking place. We heard from people like Alister McGrath,Tim Keller, Scot McKnight, Wayne “Coach” Gordon, Brian McLaren, Mike Foster, Phyllis Tickle, and Soledad O’Brien. We also got to hear from lesser known names who are doing equally amazing things; people like Skye Jethani, Jonathan Olinger of Discover the Journey, Greg Helvey creator of the short film “Kavi,” Andrew Marin of the Marin Foundation, artist Dayton Castleman, Rosalind Picard a professor and researcher at MIT, and Sean Woman founder of TBD Agency. Perhaps one of the greatest things about Q though is that all of these presenters and attendees are seen on an equal level. During my time at the conference I got to be in conversation with folks like Andy Crouch and Bill Hybels along with Jason from Lee University and a church planter named Andy.

All that to say, I undoubtedly recommend the conference. It cost a good amount, so if you can’t afford it try to volunteer—it was a great experience. I learned a good amount, but I was also deeply refreshed and encouraged.

Over the course of the three days we were given countless resources and heard of numerous ideas and things that are happening all over the country, so I thought I would share a few of those things:

TheCommon.org – what happens if we take out the middleman and allow people’s needs to be met by other’s skills?

A new perspective on what’s happening in the world—The Third Post

Beautiful stories of radical grace—People of the Second Chance

Some new jams from Zach Williams—I’m a fan

A story of surprising neighborliness in Colorado

Speaking up for children around the world through artistically telling stories—Discover the Journey

Helping a generation that is growing up without fathers - The National Fatherhood Initiative

A short, Academy Award Nominated, film, "Kavi," about slavery today