In early June 2026, Olivet Nazarene University hosted Pastors and Leaders Conference (PALCON), a biannual denominational conference meant to encourage connection, rest and inspiration. This regionally based conference is typically held on the off years from the quadrennial General Assembly conventions at Nazarene higher education institutions.
“PALCON attendees were refreshed and challenged throughout the event,” said Anne Whalen, director of Church Relations at Olivet, and one of the lead organizers for the event. “Pastors enjoyed the opportunity to connect with other leaders, hear from denominational leaders who shared ideas for revitalizing ministries, how to build healthy congregations and renew the passion of our pastors and leaders.”
Over the course of the three-day event, 250 participants attended unique plenary sessions in Kresge Auditorium and 27 topical breakout workshops, which were held in Larsen Fine Arts Center and Burke Administration. Keynote speakers included Filimão Chambo, Jenna Luoto, Julie O’Hara, Jeff Stark and Althea Taylor. The formation sessions were led by pastors in the Church of the Nazarene, all of which tied into the conference theme: One Heart.
In promotion ahead of the conference, Anne recognized that ministry can be an isolating career field and that the goal of the event was truly for pastors and leaders to leave feeling refreshed for their work. In a post-conference survey, she shared that one attendee said the following.
“In the previous months leading up to PALCON, I came closer than I ever have in 20 years of pastoral ministry, to walking away. I was calloused and cynical about what God may be able to do while there. Scripture says that He is able to above and exceedingly more than we could ever think or ask. I truly believe God used this PALCON to restore, refuel and refocus me. I can’t thank you all and the Lord enough!”
Interspersed with the official ministry-focused programming, PALCON also offered evening social gatherings, recreational opportunities in the Perry Center facilities, counseling conversations, space and time for spiritual formation activities, and programming specifically for kids and teens.
For more information about events & other happenings at Olivet, visit Olivet.edu/Events.
