Southern Lights Conference
JANUARY 22 - 24, 2027
At Beautiful Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island, GA
This years Theme:
Christianity in the Aftermath: How Do We Live?
Welcome to the Southern Lights Conference — a gathering for those courageous enough to wrestle with what it means to follow Jesus in these times of danger and opportunity. Next January, we meet in the aftermath of a monumental mid-term election, rising Christian nationalism, denominational decline, war, political division, racism, a degraded democracy, and a culture that too often rewards cruelty over compassion. Many of us don't recognize the Christianity that dominates the headlines — and we wonder what to do now.
Our faith teaches us that moments of collapse can also become moments of awakening. Southern Lights 2027 is an invitation to experience a faith awakening, leaving fear, domination, and exclusion behind and pursuing justice, mercy, courage, and love of neighbors (no exceptions). Together, we will confront hard truths, imagine what comes next, and practice a Christian faith capable of healing a wounded world.
Let us remember Jemar Tisby’s words that still echo in our ears from last year's conference, “...silence in the face of injustice is not neutrality; it is complicity.”
Join us surrounded by the beauty of St. Simons Island, GA, or virtually, from the comfort of your home.
When there’s “a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.” -Leonard Cohen
Lighting the Way
We welcome three extraordinary speakers, and musicians under the leadership and direction of Diana Butler Bass and Brian McLaren.
Diana Butler Bass (PhD, Duke) is an award-winning author of eleven books, popular speaker, inspiring preacher, and one of America's most trusted commentators on religion and contemporary spirituality, especially where faith intersects with politics and culture.
Brian D. McLaren is an author, speaker, activist, and public theologian. A former college English teacher and pastor, he is a passionate advocate for “a new kind of Christianity” – just, generous, and working with people of all faiths for the common good. He is dean of faculty member at the Center for Action and Contemplation and podcaster with Learning How to See.
Guest Speakers
This year, these speakers will help us explore what it means to live faithfully in the aftermath — to find courage in uncertain times, hope amid upheaval, and a way forward rooted in justice, compassion, and love of neighbor.
For a complete list of Speakers, Musicians, and Staff along with their bios,
Venue
For the past 25 years, Southern Lights has found its perfect home at Epworth by the Sea, a beloved conference center with deep spiritual roots. Located on St. Simons Island, Georgia, Epworth sits along the peaceful Frederica River and has welcomed guests for generations seeking rest, renewal, and reflection.
Founded in 1950 by the South Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church, Epworth was named after the English village where John and Charles Wesley, founders of Methodism, were born—making it a fitting place for faith-centered gatherings.
The grounds offer breathtaking views of the Mackay River and Barrier Island wetlands, with sunsets beneath ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss. Just a short drive away, you’ll find beautiful beaches, local shops, and charming restaurants.
Southern Lights Conference
JANUARY 22 -24, 2027