Showing Up & Speaking In
This April, I had the joy of attending the D6 Conference in Orlando, Florida—not only as a breakout speaker but also as part of the social media team. Rooted in Deuteronomy 6:5–7, this event focuses on equipping families and churches to disciple every generation. What makes D6 unique is its heart—helping churches and homes work together to build a consistent, Christ-centered faith foundation for kids and teens.
The crowd? Think everyday leaders—children’s pastors, volunteers, parents, and grandparents—people deeply invested in the next generation, both at home and in ministry.
A Laid-Back Surprise
I wasn’t sure what kind of atmosphere to expect, but D6 turned out to be the ultimate “jeans and a t-shirt” conference. Despite the deep, rich teaching, the vibe was refreshingly casual. No pretense. Just real people with real stories and a shared passion for discipleship.
When I flew in from Albany, New York, my dress pants were packed in the overhead bin. I showed up to registration in my travel outfit and was greeted by the conference coordinator sporting a baseball cap. I resisted the urge to de-wrinkle my dress pants and taught my session on prayer later that day in jeans, and a tee, though I did throw on a blazer.
Thematic Highlights
This year’s theme was Foundations. What does it mean to build something lasting—in our homes, churches, and hearts? Mainstage speakers tackled issues like discipleship, emotional health, addiction, family habits, and even discussed the role art plays in spiritual formation.
Breakout sessions offered practical tools on topics ranging from praying with kids and marriage ministry to trauma, technology, and adoption. Whether you’re a parent or a pastor, there is something here for you.
Ministry Meet-Up: Real Conversations
One standout moment for me was participating in the “Ministry Meet-Up.” Picture a mix between an individual coaching session and an informal hangout. Speakers were grouped in different rooms by ministry interest and attendees could float around, ask questions, and have one-on-one conversations.
This format lets us offer context-specific support—which is a game changer. When I talk about prayer, it helps to know if someone’s leading toddlers or teens, or whether they have one classroom for K–5 or a separate one for each grade. That kind of detail turns generic advice into real ministry.
Personal Takeaways
I came to serve, but I left filled. Two things especially stuck with me.
First, Corey Jones reminded us of the difference between “have to” and “get to.” When we say, “I get to serve,” it shifts our hearts toward joy instead of obligation. That one phrase reframed a lot for me.
Second, a theme I didn’t expect: woundedness. Through stories from Dannah Gresh, Austin Fruits, and Russ Ramsey, I was challenged to stop hiding my broken places. What if our shame is actually a doorway to strength? Van Gogh once painted himself with his ear cut off—not to glorify pain, but to be honest about it. That image stuck with me. I’m still processing what it might look like to let God use those wounded places in my life as a wellspring of ministry.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a parent, ministry leader, or volunteer, I can’t recommend the D6 Conference enough. It’s practical, inspiring, and full of real connection.
Exciting news—they just announced that next year’s event is moving to Nashville! As a New Yorker, I’ll miss the palm trees and poolside Orlando offers, but I’m looking forward to experiencing the buzz and beauty of Nashville.
For detailed session notes from each session be sure to head here. To learn more about the D6 Conference, check out this site.
Source: Splink
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