What does faithful witness look like in a time of deep polarization, declining trust, and spiritual hunger?

In this keynote conversation, Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe and author Jonathan Rauch explore the complex relationship between Christianity, public life, and the future of democracy. Drawing on Rauch’s own unexpected journey—from skepticism about religion to a growing recognition of its essential role in sustaining civic life—the conversation invites us to consider how Christian teaching shapes not only personal faith, but the health of our common life.

Together, they reflect on the Church’s call in this moment: to resist the pull of political power, to speak with clarity and conviction rooted in the Gospel, and to offer a witness that is both grounded and transformative. Rather than echoing the noise of the culture, they challenge us to recover a distinctly Christian voice, one marked by dignity, humility, sacrifice, and love of neighbor, and to embody that witness not only within our communities, but in the public square.

A thoughtful and timely conversation for church leaders seeking to navigate complexity, reclaim moral imagination, and live more fully into the call of the Gospel in today’s world.

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How is faith formed in the next generation—and where does that formation truly begin?

In this keynote conversation, Dr. Brian Steensland, the Rev. Canon Scott Gunn, and Dr. Allison Norton explore the evolving landscape of faith transmission, drawing on new research about Christian parenting and the lived realities of families today. While churches play a vital role, the conversation highlights a central insight: faith is most deeply shaped at home. Yet many parents feel unequipped, often defaulting to church programs while navigating a culture where faith is no longer assumed and children are forming identity amid a wide range of influences and perspectives.

Together, the speakers name both the challenge and the opportunity before the Church. They explore the shift from an “exposure for choice” mindset—where children are introduced to faith but left to decide on their own—to an “equipping for commitment” approach that invites intentional practices, honest conversation, and a clearer articulation of what it means to belong. From embracing the “awkwardness” of faith conversations to reclaiming the importance of storytelling, prayer, and shared practices, the conversation offers both theological grounding and practical insight for nurturing faith across generations.

Grounded in hope, this keynote invites church leaders to reimagine their role—not only as providers of programs, but as partners in equipping parents and communities to live faith daily. With clarity and encouragement, it points toward a simpler, deeper vision of discipleship rooted in prayer, scripture, community, and a lived commitment that can be seen, shared, and passed on.

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In the closing keynote of EPN 2026, the Rev. Dr. Steven Tomlinson gathered the wisdom of the week into a single, living story of faith. Drawing on his gifts as storyteller, theologian, and teacher, Tomlinson invited us to reflect on what it means to live faithfully in a world both aching and alive with possibility.

Rather than offering strategies or solutions, he helped us discern the deeper patterns of our time together — the courage to face truth, the willingness to be repaired, the hope that grows through community, and the joy of lifelong formation.

Through story, humor, and spiritual insight, Tomlinson reminded us that the Church’s shared life — its relationships, imagination, and witness — reveals God at work among us. Together, we celebrated that EPN and the wider Episcopal Church are part of something larger than any one parish: a vibrant, connected community equipping leaders, strengthening parishes, and boldly imagining what’s next.

Watch this essential close to EPN 2026 and leave renewed in faith and imagination — ready to build a Church deeply woven together in purpose, one that listens deeply, leads with grace, and meets this moment with creativity and hope.

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