Perkins 2026 Fall Convocation
Join Perkins School of Theology for the 2026 Fall Convocation, a practical, interactive training experience focused on conflict engagement in congregations and faith communities.
Engage Conflict. Strengthen Community.
Conflict is inevitable. Division doesn’t have to be.
Gain practical tools for navigating difficult conversations and conflict within congregations, ministry teams and faith communities.
Presented in collaboration with the Department of Human-Centered Interdisciplinary Studies at SMU’s Simmons School of Education and Human Development, this year’s Fall Convocation combines behavioral science with hands-on learning to help church leaders engage conflict in ways that strengthen relationships and move communities forward.
Monday, November 9, 2026
8:30 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.
Grace Avenue United Methodist Church
Frisco, Texas
Space is limited to 80 participants. Early registration is encouraged.
Who Should Attend?
Fall Convocation is designed for clergy, church staff, lay leaders and ministry teams seeking skills in conflict engagement with congregations, leadership teams or the broader community. Participants from all denominations are welcome.
Practical Skills for Faith Communities
For more than two decades, SMU Simmons’ Dispute Resolution program has trained leaders in negotiation, mediation, leadership coaching and conflict engagement.
Clinical Professor John Potter and his colleagues will bring that expertise to Fall Convocation through interactive training and table simulations designed specifically for faith communities.
Participants will leave better prepared to:
- Recognize behaviors and dynamics that influence conflict
- Navigate difficult conversations more effectively
- Apply conflict-engagement skills within their faith communities
- Help disagreements move toward positive outcomes
Bring Your Team
Conflict engagement shouldn’t rest on one leader alone. Bring church staff, lay leaders or ministry colleagues and build a shared approach your team can put into practice together.
Discounted half-table and full-table registration options are available. View schedule and event details.
Continuing Education
Participants who attend the entire conference may receive .75 continuing education unit upon request.
Register by October 30