June 2025 Lead Pastor Leadership Intensive is almost full!
"I found the intensive to be really beneficial. Just do it. It's worth it." — Jared B.
"Incredibly practical and encouraging. Everyone is actually engaged in ministry." — John M.
"This is a much needed resource in the lives of lead pastors." — Ben D.
Lead Pastor Leadership Intensive
A Gathering of Lead Pastors Hungry to Grow
Get a year’s worth of high-impact lead pastor coaching condensed into an intensive two-day experience, designed to propel your ministry forward with personalized strategies and a supportive community of like-minded leaders.
Next Intensive Dates
February 11-13, 2025
Mesa, Arizona
June 23-25, 2025
Denver, Colorado
Lead Pastor Leadership Intensive
A Gathering of Lead Pastors Hungry to Grow
Get a year’s worth of high-impact lead pastor coaching condensed into an intensive two-day experience, designed to propel your ministry forward with personalized strategies and a supportive community of like-minded leaders.
Next Intensive Dates
February 11-13, 2025
Mesa, Arizona
June 23-25, 2025
Denver, Colorado
Mesa, Arizona
February 11-13, 2025
Sold Out!
Denver, Colorado
June 23-25, 2025
1 Spot Remaining
Lead Pastors
In the ever-evolving landscape of ministry, the journey from vision to impactful execution is often fraught with unique challenges that standard conference fare and pre-packaged solutions can’t address. This Intensive is your opportunity to dive deep into the real-world ministry issues you face, armed with the guidance of experienced leaders who understand that the path of church leadership must be paved with tailored strategies and personalized support… not general advice.
At the heart of the Leadership Intensive is a commitment to practical wisdom over grandiose ideas—offering what feels like a year’s worth of coaching condensed into an intensive session focused squarely on the problems you’re actually grappling with.
This isn’t about passive consumption of one-size-fits-all content; it’s an active workshop environment where you’ll articulate your needs and collaboratively craft the solutions that will move your ministry forward. The Intensive is constructed to equip you with the necessary insights, tools, and action steps for breakthrough!
Experience Breakthrough In Areas Demanding Your Attention
- Staffing
- Growth
- Administration
- Finances
- Development
- Preaching
- Volunteers
- Leadership
- Membership
Beyond strategy and skills, the Intensive fosters a unique community of ministry leaders who share your drive, challenges, and vision for impact. While networking is never a guarantee, the environment we cultivate is ripe for forming deep, meaningful connections with peers who can say, “Oh, you too?”—echoing C.S. Lewis’s notion that true friendship is discovered in shared experience. This gathering of lead pastors is for the hungry: leaders poised to grow not just numerically, but personally, ready to transform their passion into action.
Whether you’re at a pivotal moment of expansion, wrestling with staffing issues, or simply seeking to elevate your leadership, the Lead Pastor Leadership Intensive promises to be an invaluable resource. Here, you won’t just find answers—you’ll join a community of like-minded leaders dedicated to building the Church. If you’re driven to excel in ministry and ready to engage deeply with the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, this Intensive is where your next chapter begins.
Be ready to leave full—not just of knowledge, but of purpose, direction, and renewed zeal for your calling. This event is for those who aren’t satisfied with just getting by; it’s for leaders eager to excel and lead with conviction and clarity. Join us, and let’s craft the future of your ministry together.
The Lead Pastor Leadership Intensive was impactful and provided practical tools. It’s perfect for new lead pastors or those feeling stuck. I left with fresh insights and encouragement. If you’re considering it, just do it—it’s worth it!
Jared B.
Westminster, CA
The Lead Pastor Leadership Intensive is perfect for pastors seeking encouragement, clarity, or fresh perspectives. I loved meeting others, sharing insights, and gaining tools to grow. It’s worth it!
Ray D.
Newark, NJ
The Intensive was practical, encouraging, and perfect for pastors seeking growth, guidance, and community. Engaged peers and mentors made it impactful. If you value learning and collaboration, this is for you. I’d do it again!
John M.
Scottsbluff, NE
What the Intensive Is...
- High-Level Lead Pastor Coaching
This is not a passive conference where you merely absorb information. Each session is a dynamic, topic-driven workshop where the agenda is shaped by the real-world questions and challenges you bring to the table.
Come prepared to engage, collaborate, and tackle the issues that matter most to your ministry.
- Face to Face with Session "Speakers"
Each session is an intimate gathering of lead pastors—a small cohort where you’ll have direct, face-to-face access to our seasoned and experienced mentors.
There are no stages or sound systems here; only close, personal interaction tackling the topics that matter most to you and your ministry.
This is your opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue and receive tailored guidance that addresses your unique challenges head-on.
- Community of Pastors Hungry to Grow
The word “intensive” is deliberate. Our time together will be purposeful, focused, and driven, with brief breaks woven in.
Community, fellowship, and connection are integral to the session format, allowing you to share your context and engage with other pastors as they share theirs. This is a space for both structured learning and organic relationship-building.
To further foster casual connections, we’ll gather for an after-hours dinner on Tuesday evening, providing an informal setting to unwind and continue the conversation.
Do not miss out on an entire year of coaching delivered in a 3-day experience.
What the Intensive IS NOT...
- This is not Conference
This is not a spectator’s conference where you simply absorb information. Each session is a dynamic, topic-driven workshop where the agenda is shaped by the real-world questions and challenges you bring to the table.
Come prepared to engage, collaborate, and tackle the issues that matter most to your ministry.
Your participation is not just welcomed—it’s essential to unlocking the full potential of this intensive experience.
- This is not about growing your brand
This intensive is not about personal brand-building or platform expansion.
It’s specifically designed for lead pastors who are hungry to grow—both personally and in their capacity to lead their churches to new heights. Our time together is wholly dedicated to the growth and flourishing of your home church.
Every session, every discussion, and every connection made is focused on equipping you with the tools, insights, and strategies you need to take your ministry to the next level.
- This is not about 'networking in the back'
This is not an event where you can afford to miss sessions or “network” in the back of the room. Every moment is an opportunity for growth and transformation, and if you miss a session, you miss the heart of the intensive.
Come prepared to fully engage—to share your context, ask the tough questions, and dive deep in dialogue with experienced leaders. This is your chance to gain the insights, strategies, and tools you need to catalyze real change in your ministry.
Embrace it wholeheartedly, and you’ll leave equipped and empowered to lead your church forward.
What You Can Expect
Best-Practice Leadership Talks
Expect several short best-practice leadership talks crafted to educate, inspire, and edify you in your role as lead pastor.
Small Group Coaching Sessions
Multiple 90-minute small group coaching sessions with experienced practitioners well-acquainted with your needs & challenges.
Workshop Your Specific Solutions
Come prepared with questions, problems, and situations you want solutions for. Workshop with experienced leaders and other attendees.
Informal Space for Processing
We’ll provide time and space for you to connect with our mentors and other lead pastors for processing and discussion.
Ongoing Communication
You’ll receive an invitation to join the Faithful & Fruitful Slack channel for ongoing support and resource-sharing.
Personal Access to Leaders
You’ll be provided with contact information for personal access to the experienced leaders even after the event has passed.
Event Agenda & Schedule
Tuesday, February 11
12:00pm — Welcome Lunch
1:00pm — Ironwood Experience
3:00pm — Small group coaching session #1 (90 minutes)
5:30pm — Catered Dinner
8:00pm — Fire Pit & Drinks (optional)
Wednesday, February 12
8:00am — Breakfast
8:30am — Small group coaching session #2 (90 minutes)
10:30am — Small group coaching session #3 (90 minutes)
12:00pm — Lunch
1:00pm — Ironwood Sermon Insights Meeting
2:15pm — Large group session
3:30pm — Small group coaching session #4
5:00pm — Dismiss (Dinner on your own)
6:30pm — Ironwood Student Ministries (optional)
Thursday, February 13
8:00am — Breakfast
8:30am — Small group coaching session #5 (90 minutes)
10:30am — Small group coaching session #6 (90 minutes)
12:00pm — Dismiss
This is a much-needed resource for lead pastors, leveling the field across ministries and fostering humble learning. The open forum and connections with pastors nationwide were impactful. If you’re considering attending, do it!
Ben D.
Erie, PA
This was an excellent investment of time and money. Perfect for pastors feeling stuck, facing growth obstacles, or entering new ministry phases. The coaching was direct, insightful, and practical. If you need fresh strategies, this is for you!
Andy M.
Denver, CO
This event was personal and impactful. I loved bringing my own questions and getting tailored advice from the coaches. I felt seen, cared for, and left encouraged, challenged, and equipped with fresh, creative ways to think and lead.
Matt I.
Surprise, AZ
Join Us In Person for the Lead Pastor Leadership Intensive
You don’t achieve what you dream of. You achieve what you dedicate yourself to, and that’s exactly what the Lead Pastor Leadership Intensive is designed for. This is a comprehensive exploration of your leadership potential, team empowerment, and ministry impact.
The Lead Pastor Leadership Intensive is an invitation to become a better steward of the calling God has placed on your life — to lead His church. This is your opportunity to step up and lead with purpose, clarity, and conviction.
Early-Bird Promotion
Event Registration
$1497
$897
February 11-13 June 23-25
Register today and save big! This is the best price you’ll see for 2025 intensives.
Early Bird promotion pricing is available for limited-time.
Luke Simmons, Lead Pastor at Ironwood Church in Mesa, Arizona. Learn more about Luke.
Luke Simmons, Lead Pastor, Ironwood Church
Meet Your Host
I’m Luke Simmons — I’ve been in full-time pastoral ministry since 2004 and I’ve got the scars to prove it. After all those years, I’ve remained joyful in ministry, my family loves the church, and I still delight in helping people meet, know, and follow Jesus. I want the same for you.
Sometimes we need an experienced coach who can answer questions, offer suggestions, cheer us on, and be confident on our behalf. That’s why I’m here.
God has graciously allowed me to serve as a church planter, lead pastor, preacher, and leadership coach (read my full bio here). I love learning and when things I’ve learned get to help other leaders… oh baby, that’s the good stuff.
February 11-13, 2025 in Mesa, Arizona
Join Us at Ironwood Church
Dates & Times (subject to small changes)
Tuesday, February 11 — 12pm to 9pm
Wednesday, February 12 — 8am to 5pm
Thursday, February 13 — 8am to 12pm
Airport Information
Phoenix-Mesa Gateway, AZA (2.8 miles)
Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, PHX (34.4 miles)
June 23-25, 2025 in Denver, Colorado
Join Us in Denver, Colorado
Dates & Times (Full Schedule Coing Soon)
Monday, June 23 — Evening
Tuesday, June 24 — All Day
Wednesday, June 25 — Till Noon
Airport Information
Denver International Airport, DEN
Frequently Asked Questions
This event is designed specifically for the church senior / lead pastor.
Our event format, session topics, and community discussion is centered to serve the needs and challenges unique to the lead pastor.
We are limiting attendance only to lead pastors to maintain the focus and usefulness of our time together.
February 11-13, 2025 in Mesa, Arizona
Plan to arrive at Ironwood Church in Mesa, Arizona by 11:30am on Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
Our final session will conclude by 12pm on Thursday, February 13, 2025.
Specific times are tentative and subject to change.
June 23-25, 2025 in Denver, Colorado
Plan to arrive at Denver International Airport (DEN) in time to attend a 6pm evening dinner on Monday, June 23, 2025.
Our final session will conclude by 12pm on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.
Specific times are tentative and subject to change.
February 11-13, 2025 in Mesa, Arizona
Air travelers have the option of flying in to either Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport or Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.
Phoenix-Mesa Gateway (AZA) is approximately 2.4 miles or 5 minutes away from Ironwood Church.
Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) is approximately 34.4 mils or 40 minutes away from Ironwood Church.
June 23-25, 2025 in Denver, Colorado
Denver International Airport (DEN).
Due to the nature of this live event, we do a limited refund policy.
February 11-13, 2025 in Mesa, Arizona
Refund requests prior to October 31 are eligible for a 100% refund.
Refund requests made November 1 through December 31 are eligible for a 50% refund.
Requests made on or after January 1, 2025 are not eligible for a refund.
June 23-25, 2025 in Denver, Colorado
Refund requests on or prior to March 17, 2025 are eligible for a 100% refund.
Refund requests made March 18, 2025 through May 12, 2025 are eligible for a 50% refund.
Requests made on or after May 13, 2025 are not eligible for a refund.
If you have any additional questions about this policy or would like to request a refund please email info@faithfulandfruitful.com.
Luke Simmons, the host of the intensive, is the Lead Pastor of Ironwood Church, our hosting church.
This event is not affiliated with Ironwood Church, however, our statement of faith is consistent with that shared on the Ironwood Church website.
Don't Wait! Register Today.
If you are dedicated to the idea of leading your church effectively and making a lasting, Kingdom impact, we want you to join us for the Lead Pastor Leadership Intensive!
Mesa, Arizona
February 11-13, 2025
Sold Out
Denver, Colorado
June 23-25, 2025
Only 1 Spot Remains
© 2025 Faithful & Fruitful
Join Us at Ironwood Church
Dates & Times (subject to small changes)
Tuesday, February 11
12pm to 5pm
6pm to 9pm (dinner & fire pit)
Wednesday, February 12
8am to 5pm
Thursday, February 13
8am to 12pm
Airport Information
Phoenix-Mesa Gateway, AZA (2.8 miles)
Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, PHX (34.4 miles)
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