Here are some of the Onward Breakout session from previous ONWARD Worship Conferences that are available on SCBaptist Podcast at www.scbaptist.org/podcasts

ONWARD 2025

Worship & Leadership

“Exploring Psalm 119“, by Dave Aubrey, from The Way of Worship
Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible, yet it centers on one theme: a love for God’s Word. In this session, you’ll discover how this psalm models a life of worship grounded in Scripture and obedience. Together we’ll unpack its structure, purpose, and poetic depth, learning how its truths can shape both personal devotion and corporate worship.

“Christ-Centered Liturgy“, by Jordan Kauflin
Every gathering tells a story. This session will explore how thoughtful liturgy can intentionally point our hearts to Christ from call to worship to benediction. You’ll learn biblical and historical foundations for worship flow, practical ways to weave Gospel clarity through every element, and how to make your church’s rhythms both rooted and real.

“Worship Songwriting Panel Discussion“, by Dave Aubrey, Laura Story, Jordan Kauflin, & Travis Brian
Join a panel of experienced songwriters as they share wisdom, stories, and lessons from the creative process of writing songs for the church. You’ll hear how theology, melody, and collaboration come together to serve congregations with truth and beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just beginning, this session will encourage and equip you to write songs that last. 

“Bringing Clarity to Difference-Making Worship”, by Bobby Huguley, from Loris First Baptist Church
Present a clear definition of worship to form a better understanding of what worship is and use that definition to build worship that makes more of a difference in the hearts and lives of worshipers.

“Same Church, Different Styles of Worship“, by Caleb Baker, From East Pickens Baptist Church, Pickens SC
What happens when one church embraces multiple musical styles? In this session, we’ll explore how unity in Christ can thrive amid diversity in sound and expression. You’ll gain insight into navigating preferences, building shared vision, and creating services that honor both heritage and innovation while keeping the Gospel central.

“Authentic Expression: Leading from His Presence, Not Personality“, by Candace Hughes, from Church at The Mill, Moore SC
Being a worship leader is not about any certain kind of personality. The Church is full of different personalities bringing different gifts to the table. Leading from the presence of God is about drawing from the well of Living Water because He sustains us and He guides us. Continually drawing from this well is what guides us to lead from a place of confidence in who God is—not in what we think we need to be.

“Leading While Learning: Reflections From Our First Year and What We wish We Knew“, by Carson Woodham & Emily Lanford, from Church at The Mill, Moore SC
Stepping into worship ministry is both exciting and stretching—especially in the first year. In this breakout, we share honest reflections on the lessons, surprises, and growth that came from leading while still learning. We’ll talk about what is working for us, what hasn’t, and what we have gleaned over our first years in ministry. Whether you’re new to worship leadership or mentoring those who are, this session will offer practical insights, encouragement, and real stories to help you navigate the challenges of ministry with grace, humility, and endurance to begin with the foundation to finish well.

“The Emotionally Healthy Leader in the Modern Church“, by Christopher Young, from Doorway Baptist Church, Summerville SC
Many pastors and worship leaders are quietly struggling in the modern church. Behind the sermons, songs, and smiles, countless ministry leaders wrestle with depression, anxiety, burnout, and isolation. This breakout is a call to break the silence. Drawing from Scripture, personal experience, and the wisdom of historical Christian leaders, this session explores how our emotional health and spiritual maturity are inseparable. Confront what’s beneath the surface to find healing, wholeness, and renewed joy in Christ. 

“Building a Thriving Church Internship“, by Cory Singleton, from Shandon Baptist Church, Columbia, SC
Want to start an internship at your church but not sure where to begin? This breakout will guide you through the essentials of the conversation to help you define your vision, create structure, recruit your interns, and build a sustainable program that develops lifelong leaders for strengthening your church as well as sending to the nations.

“Exalting Christ in All Things“, by Donald Shockley, from Rocky Creek Baptist Church, Greenville SC
As a leader, your personal spiritual growth influences your leadership within your congregation. This breakout session will guide you toward the glory of Christ as revealed in the Scriptures, equipping you with practical tools to enhance your walk with Christ and your worship ministry.

“Women in Worship Leadership: How to Walk in Surrender and God-Confidence“, by Julie McNeely, from Church at The Mill, Moore SC
God designed women with strength, purpose, and calling—created to lead and serve as reflections of His character. This breakout invites women in worship leadership to embrace both surrender and confidence, leading from identity rather than insecurity. Through biblical truth and practical encouragement, you’ll be encouraged to release the need for approval, confront wrong mindsets with grace and godliness, and rest in the truth that it’s not about your ability but your humble obedience.

“Building the Next Generation for Worship Ministry“, by Megan Hollifield, North Greenville University, Tigerville SC
Raising up future worship leaders doesn’t happen by accident. This breakout will help you identify, equip, and disciple the next generation in your church to serve faithfully and skillfully. Learn practical systems for mentorship, healthy pipelines for growth, and how to instill a passion for worship that lasts beyond the stage.

“The Hymn Myth“, by Robert Hampshire, Calvary Baptist Church, Florence SC
Churches across America have been arguing and even splitting about musical style and song choice for as long as I can remember. But what if the underlying problem was just a misunderstanding of a few words? In this session, we’ll discuss what the Bible has to say about congregational worship and how singing more “real hymns” may just lead us toward the unity we have been praying for.

Groups & Instruments

Sing Strong, Lead Strong: Building Essential Vocal Skills for Worship Leaders, by Deirdre Welborn, Anderson University, Anderson SC
Find your voice, and use it well! In this session, you’ll pick up practical tools to help you sing with more strength, freedom, and confidence. We’ll cover things like breath management, how to sing in optimal body alignment and balance, and ways to find your range of vocal colors—all so you can lead worship with less strain and more joy. You’ll also learn smart habits like warming up, cooling down, practicing with purpose, and knowing what to do when your voice just isn’t feeling 100%. It’s all about taking care of the voice God gave you and using it to serve him well.

All Things for Worship Bands, by Greyson Johnston, Cross Community Church, Beaufort SC
This session is a deep dive into the heart and craft of modern worship bands. From musical excellence to team dynamics, we’ll discuss how to serve your church with humility and unity. You’ll leave with practical tools for rehearsal flow, transitions, arrangements, and leading together as one sound and one spirit.

Making Worship Choir Exciting, Meaningful, and Worshipful, by Josh Epton, Church at The Mill, Moore SC
The choir is more than a group of singers—it’s a vital part of congregational worship. In this session, you’ll learn how to infuse purpose, energy, and discipleship into your choir ministry. Discover creative ways to engage your singers, strengthen community, and help every voice contribute to a unified sound of praise.

Beyond the Band: What To Do With Everyone Else the Lord Gives You to Praise Him!, by Tommy Sunderland, First Baptist Church, Camden SC
Do you have instrumentalists who don’t fit neatly into your rhythm section and wonder how to include them in worship? This breakout is for you! Drawing from 37 years of full-time ministry experience, you’ll walk away with key questions to ask and creative strategies for building a unified worship team. Our role as worship leaders is to lead and equip God’s people to worship our Lord. We can work together to do just that.

The Worship MD: Musical Excellence Meets Spiritual Leadership, by Will Shuler, Church at The Mill, Moore SC
This breakout will equip worship leaders, MDs, and team members to build a ministry culture where skill and spirituality work together, instead of competing. In this breakout, we’ll explore how to lead worship with musical precision while keeping Christ at the center, and how to use musical direction as a tool for ministry. Whether you’re conducting a band, arranging transitions, or pastoring your team through musical direction, this session will challenge and encourage you to lead with both excellence and surrender. 

Technology & Production

Tracks Made Simple: Building and Implementing Tracks for Your Worship Team, by Ben Smith, Honea Path First Baptist, Honea Path SC
We will look at effective ways to use, implement and introduce click and tracks in your worship gathering. Unity for your team, unity for the body in corporate worship, and simplicity will be the topics of discussion.

The Power of Visual Media: How to Use Graphics and Video to Communicate the Gospel, by Carl Barnhill, Church Visuals, Lexington SC
In a world where attention spans are shrinking and screens are everywhere, visuals have become one of the most powerful ways to communicate truth. In this breakout, you’ll discover how to use graphics and video intentionally to capture hearts and reinforce the message of the Gospel. We’ll explore how visuals can strengthen your sermons, enhance your church’s communication, and create lasting impact in the lives of your people.

The Digital Front Porch: Social Media for Ministry, by Grayson Smith, SC Baptist Convention, Columbia SC
Social media is today’s front porch for ministry connection. In this session, you’ll learn how to strategically use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube to tell your church’s story, share the Gospel, and engage your community. Practical tips and creative strategies will help you post with purpose, build consistency, and communicate with clarity and heart.

The Real Reason Your Church Brand Matters, by Grayson Smith, SC Baptist Convention, Columbia SC
Every church, regardless of size, needs a clear, intentional brand. This session will define what a church brand really is and how it communicates your story before anyone even steps through your doors. With practical strategies and actionable methods, learn why a strong, consistent brand is crucial for reaching your community, building trust, and supporting your ministry’s mission. Plus, you’ll leave with curated resources to continue growing and refining your church brand long after the session ends.

A Lot with a Little: Video and Photos on a Budget for Churches, by Jonathan Bruce, Church at The Mill, Moore SC
We will be looking at how to tell the story of your church through photos and video— regardless of your size or budget.

Leveraging AI for Creatives, by Jonathan Cape, LE Cape, Matthews, NC
Accelerate your creative team to go beyond just AI memes and speed up your workflow and process. Small teams are the new powerhouses and simple workflows can speed up production and dramatically increase quality.

Building and Leading a Healthy Creative Team at Your Church, by Rachel Cantrell, Church at The Mill, Moore SC
Discover how to build and lead a thriving creative team—whether you’re part of a small staff or a large ministry. This session will explore principles for developing a team that produces excellent work while growing spiritually and professionally. Learn how to think strategically, cast inspiring vision, place the right people in the right roles, and align your creative efforts with the overall philosophy and mission of your church.

Getting Started with ProPresenter, by Ronnie Richardson, SC Baptist Convention, Columbia SC
Are you new to ProPresenter and eager to learn the basics? We will guide you through the fundamentals of ProPresenter to help you get started with confidence. You will receive an overview of its powerful capabilities, discover how it can enhance presentations in your church, and see a few live demonstrations showcasing key features. Whether you’re setting up slides for worship, integrating media, or navigating the user interface, this session will set the foundation you need.

ONWARD 2024

Worship & Leadership

“Worship Framework: Redefining Success in Ministry”, by Robbie Seay, from The Worship Initiative
The Monday morning evaluation meeting can sometimes be exhausting. How did Sunday sound? How did it look? How were the transitions? These things matter, but is there anything more than performance-based evaluation in our worship ministry? We will explore eight areas of conviction for consideration, and discover the why behind our ministry and allow that to shape and form our idea of success in worship ministry.

“Worship Initiative: How Can It Help My Church?”, by Andrew McKinney, from The Worship Initiative
It’s easy for worship leaders to forget to invest in the goals they have for their team and how to effectively utilize Monday through Saturday while stewarding the reality that Sunday is always coming. Worship Initiative is a tool in your hands for personal growth, encouragement, and growth resources for your team.

“Adaptive Leadership: Embracing Change with Confidence”, by Steve Holt, From The Church at LifePark Church, Mt. Pleasant, SC
Change is inevitable in ministry—whether it’s a shift in leadership, a new vision, or unexpected challenges. The real question is: how do you lead through it with confidence and grace? In this breakout session designed for leaders at every level, we’ll explore practical strategies for navigating resistance, building trust, and keeping teams motivated during times of transition.

“Holy Sidekicks: Your Worship Pastor’s Secret Weapon!”, by Elizabeth Ekback, from Utica Baptist Church, Seneca, SC
Are you a volunteer or paid staff who is called to support your worship pastor? In this breakout, we’ll explore ways to radiate joy, extend grace, and foster a spirit of unity in your worship ministry family while also being a source of support for your worship pastor, offering grace and encouragement in every interaction.

“Emotionally Healthy Leadership in the Modern Church”, by Christopher Young, from Doorway Baptist Church, Summerville, SC
Emotional health is a critical but often overlooked aspect of being an effective church leader. As we face unique pressures, joys, and trials, prioritizing emotional health is essential for having a healthy ministry and sustainable leadership. This breakout is designed to create a culture of openness and support for those in ministry about emotionally healthy leadership.

“Communicating as a Biblical Leader in Worship”, by Megan Hollifield, from North Greenville University, Tigerville, SC
This breakout is for worship leaders who aim to love, guide, and produce good leaders through biblical truth and worship to Jesus.

“Help! I Need Somebody: Strategies for Growing Your Worship Ministry Team”, by Andrew Lucius, from Charleston Southern University, Charleston, SC
This breakout is designed for worship ministry leaders seeking to enhance their volunteer teams. Discover effective recruitment techniques, creative training methods, and essential pastoral care practices for your volunteers. Gain insights on handling challenging personalities and learn administrative strategies to streamline your week.

“Small Church, Big God: Leading Worship in the Context of Church Revitalization”, by JC Spearman from Woodfields Baptist Church, Greenwood, SC
If we want to see the Lord revitalize our churches we need to ask, “What does a healthy worship ministry look like?” In this breakout, we’ll consider what we ought to be aiming for in worship ministry and provide practical guidance to address the challenges of leading worship in the context of church revitalization.

“Weekly Worship Workout: Building Muscle Memory for Your Congregation’s Journey with Jesus”, by John Green from Riverland Hills Baptist Church, Irmo, SC
God’s Word calls us as worship pastors to equip the saints and to build up the Body of Christ (Ephesians 4:12). We are called to come alongside the Holy Spirit to help form the hearts and affections of the people we are leading. This breakout session will discuss how to use those tools to shepherd your congregation towards Christ’s likeness and equip them for their day-to-day living with Jesus.

“Songwriting”, by Candace Hughes from Church at The Mill, Moore, SC
God’s Word calls us as worship pastors to equip the saints and to build up the Body of Christ (Ephesians 4:12). We are called to come alongside the Holy Spirit to help form the hearts and affections of the people we are leading. This breakout session will discuss how to use those tools to shepherd your congregation towards Christ’s likeness and equip them for their day-to-day living with Jess.

“Nuts and Bolts of Worship Ministry”, by Steve Phillips from First Baptist Church, Columbia, SC
In this breakout, you’ll get practical information and ideas that are used in building your worship ministry. We’ll focus on topics like recruitment, motivation, administration, choir rehearsals, Sundays, special productions, and more.

“Ministry Legacy”, by Randy Kirby from Simpsonville/Upstate Church, Simpsonville, SC
Many lessons can be learned from years of service to the local church. How do you endure through difficult seasons of ministry? How do you set your life up to make it the long haul? Join this discussion for biblical principles and helpful tips for a ministry that will last a lifetime.

“Not Your Grandma’s Worship Ministry… But She’s There, Too”, by Travis Brian from Utica Baptist Church, Seneca, SC
In today’s world, we push so hard for our personal preference, and, sadly, selfishness has crept into our Sunday morning worship experience. In this breakout, we will discuss the beauty found in coming together across all generations.

“Bi-Vocational Music Ministry”, by Jon Michael Brock from Chestnut Ridge Baptist Church, Laurens, SC
This session’s goal is to encourage and provide insight into creating and maintaining a successful music ministry as a bi-vocational professional, providing you with practical advice and suggestions as you seek to lead your congregations in worship.

“Navigating Authentic Worship in a Tech-Driven World”, by Susan Burgess from North Augusta, SC
In today’s worship culture, the use of pre-recorded music has become increasingly common, shaping the atmosphere of corporate worship services. But how does this impact the authenticity of our worship experience? Join us as we examine the critical role of worship leaders in balancing technology with genuine, heart-driven worship and discover practical insights to create worship experiences that honor God and encourage congregational worship.

Technology & Production

“ProPresenter Bootcamp: Equipping You for Incredible Worship and Visual Excellence”, by Steve Dirks, from Church Visuals, Lexington, SC
A hands-on ProPresenter Bootcamp designed to equip you with techniques to create visually stunning worship experiences. This intensive workshop covers advanced topics such as alpha keying, custom shortcuts, and dynamic multi-screen presentations. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to take your ProPresenter skills to the next level, you’ll gain practical knowledge and insider tips to elevate your church’s multimedia worship services.

“The Power of Visual Media: How to Use Graphics and Video to Communicate the Gospel”, by Carl Barnhill from Church Visuals, Lexington, SC
When it comes to communicating the Gospel, your visuals matter. In this breakout, you will learn how important graphics and video are to reaching your community for Jesus.

“Sound”, by Justin Putnam from Audiart LLC, Spartanburg, SC
Most people know how to turn a sound board on, hook it up, and make the sound come out. The question this breakout is seeking to answer is: how do we understand running the board in such a way that we maximize its capabilities with expertise and can adequately train a group of volunteers?

“Worship Tracks 101: Getting Started and Creating Your Own”, by Michael Hofmann from Mount Moriah Baptist Church, Piedmont, SC
Discover how to elevate your worship experience with the power of tracks. In this breakout session, we’ll walk through the essentials of getting started with tracks for your worship team. Whether you’re new to using tracks or looking to improve your process, you’ll learn how to create, customize, and effectively implement them to enhance your services. From software and setup to building your own tracks, this session will provide practical tools and tips to make your worship team sound fuller and more dynamic.

“Church Livestream Mixing”, by Joe Wehunt & Cory Rutledge from Anderson University, Anderson, SC
If somebody’s first experience with your church was watching your livestream, what would they think? Are you afraid they might turn it off because it sounds so bad—never giving your church another chance? This breakout will help you learn how to enhance the sound quality of your church’s livestream.

“Discipleship in the Digital Age”, by Kevin Martin from SC Baptist Convention, Columbia, SC
The doors of the church are no longer physical. They are now digital. In the days before the internet or the early years of the internet age, people would drive to a church’s physical location to see what it was about. Now they will make up their mind about visiting based on your website, Facebook page, or Instagram. Come and explore ways to take back the fight in the digital space and learn more about discipleship in this new frontier.

“Video Production Workflow: Tips, Tricks, and Tools”, by Ronnie Richardson from SC Baptist Convention, Columbia, SC
The video production workflow starts well before you press record and continues after you turn off the camera. In this breakout, we will explore the essential steps from planning and production to post-production.

“Designing with Impact: Advanced Concepts for Intermediate Creators”, by Jenny Altman from Trevetts Creative+, Columbia, SC
You consider yourself a little dangerous with a mouse and Adobe Creative Suite/Canva. You can whip up a social media graphic, flyer, or brochure with ease, but would love for your projects to look more polished. Sound like you? In this breakout, we go over concepts like color theory, typography, and The Grid—elements that will give your projects the professional quality you’re looking for.

Groups & Instruments

“A Different Take on Kidz Choir”, by Lisa Sunderland from First Baptist Church, Camden, SC
Get inspired in this breakout session with engaging and fun music games, warm-ups, songs, and lessons to encourage children to become lifelong worshippers.

“10 Essentials for a Thriving Worship Choir”, by Josh Epton & Julie McNeely from Church at The Mill, Moore, SC
Ignite your worship choir’s passion and purpose! Discover the 10 essentials to building a vibrant, God-honoring worship choir culture. Learn how to start or revitalize a worship choir with fresh approaches, biblical foundations, and practical strategies.

“Vocal Stewardship and Technique”, by Addi Panter from The Worship Initiative
In this breakout session, vocalists will gain a comprehensive understanding on how to steward their God-given voice as leaders both musically and spiritually. 

“Worship Keys: An In-Depth Discussion of Your Role and How to Fill It”, by Sam Garner from The Worship Initiative
We’re going to dive into topics like how to voice chords, when and what to play in different areas of the keyboard, how to play with electric guitar players, how to set up in-ear mixes, and other topics.

“Arranging with Extra Instruments”, by Lucas Shrout from First Baptist Church, Boiling Springs, SC
Learn about maximizing the musicians you have through creative orchestration and arranging as you plan worship.

“Worship Band: Getting the Band Together”, by Jonathan Hazle from Shandon Baptist Church, Columbia, SC
It’s easy to look at a well-known church or worship team and think, “That’s what we need at our church.” Is it? Find out as we talk about what it looks like to have a worship band in the context of your church. 

“Acoustic Guitars”, by Greyson Johnston from Cross Community Church, Beaufort, SC
It’s easy to look at a well-known church or worship team and think, “That’s what we need at our church.” Is it? Find out as we talk about what it looks like to have a worship band in the context of your church.