Elevate Conference is back on March 8th, now with a renewed vision—providing FREE essential resources for those leading both within the church and in the world.
Whether you're a pastor, ministry leader, creative, entrepreneur, or professional integrating faith into your work, Elevate Conference offers practical tools, insightful teachings, and a dynamic community to support your calling.
¡La Elevate Conference está de regreso el 8 de marzo, ahora con una visión renovada: brindar recursos esenciales GRATUITOS para quienes lideran tanto en la iglesia como en el mundo.
Ya seas pastor, líder ministerial, creativo, emprendedor o profesional que integra la fe en su trabajo, Elevate Conference te ofrece herramientas prácticas, enseñanzas inspiradoras y una comunidad dinámica para apoyar tu llamado.
Join us for this FREE event as we equip and empower leaders to make a lasting
impact wherever they are called.
Únete a este evento GRATUITO mientras equipamos y empoderamos a los líderes para generar un impacto duradero dondequiera que sean llamados.
Save the date, if you want to learn more and stay up to date with this event,
click below, and we will email you.
what to expect?
Jay Jimenez
Evening Service, Guest Speaker
In-N-Out
Dinner provided by In-N-Out.
See below for availability.
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Jesus Now
Worship Provided by Jesus Now.
Elevate Conference 2025 Schedule (Tentative)
📍 2:00 – 2:30 PM | Check-In
🎶 2:30 – 3:00 PM | Welcome & Worship
📖 3:00 – 4:00 PM | Workshops (Session 1)
Workshop 1: Effective Worship and Devotionals
Workshop 2: Crafting Compelling Sermons
Spanish Workshop 1: Los desafíos de La iglesia y el inmigrante
📖 4:00 – 5:00 PM | Workshops (Session 2)
Workshop 3: Beyond Sunday School: Engaging Kids in Faith through Worship
Workshop 4: Emotional Wellness During Stressful Times
Spanish Workshop 2: Ser Padres de La Nueva Generación
🍔 5:00 – 6:30 PM | Dinner (In-N-Out)
☕ 5:30 – 6:30 PM | Coffee Break & Interactive Activities
🙌 6:30 – 8:30 PM | Night Service
Stay tuned for updates!
Workshop Speakers
Stephanie Bess
Stephanie Bess serves as the Children's Director at Luminate Church in Covina, CA, where she is dedicated to shaping the spiritual lives of young believers. With a bachelor’s degree in child development from the University of La Verne and a master’s degree in Child and Family from Southwestern Assemblies of God University, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience as a child development specialist.
Stephanie is passionate about guiding children to embrace their faith early in life, helping them realize their God-given potential, and empowering them to make a positive impact on their generation for Christ.
David Bess, M.F.A., M.Div.
David Bess combines over 35 years of professional photography experience with a strong background in ministry leadership. Alongside operating his studio, he has served in children’s ministry and pastoral ministry
He earned a B.A. in Photography from the University of La Verne, later joining the faculty to teach courses in digital photography, documentary photography, and visual literacy. He holds an M.A. in Bible and Theology and an M.Div. in Theology from Southwestern Assemblies of God University, equipping him for leadership in church and ministry settings.
David furthered his artistic expertise with an M.F.A. in Visual Arts from Azusa Pacific University. He is a member of PPA, SPE, and RPS, and his current work explores colorful abstractions with a sense of whimsy and humor. His passion for both the arts and ministry continues to shape his teaching and mentorship.
Effective Worship and Devotionals
Joshua Mann
Hey friends, my name is Joshua. I am a Pastor, worship leader, and songwriter currently living in Southern California. I've been leading worship for 15+ years and am deeply passionate about creating spaces for worship that are both spirit-filled and spiritually formative. I believe within all of us, there is a song that is intertwined within the fabric of our joy and pain - and I love coming alongside worshippers and creatives to help them discover this very song. Ultimately, I believe my calling is to help restore purity back to the house of worship through a deeply transformative and vibrant worship culture that holds space for both the contemplative and miraculous.
In recent years, I've come to love all things visually creative (graphic design, videography, technology/production, corporate/series branding, creative direction, etc.). It brings me joy to help creatively tell the story we want to tell - by crafting an experience that is tangible and understandable for the deepest thinker, or the person who finds beauty in simplicity. I love structure and organization - while also creating space for spontaneous moments.
By nature, I am an encourager and listener. Though a former version of myself loved the idea of being the loudest person in the room, I have healthily learned to lean into the soft spirit that God has given me (a little enneagram 2 in there) to love those that are entrusted to my care. I am passionate about preserving healthy team culture through holding space for all who serve on a team while also providing clarity and direction as it is needed
Engaging Kids with Faith & Worship
Emotional Wellness During Stressful Times
Amber Kelsey
Amber Kelsey is a passionate leader, dedicated wife, and loving mother. She has been happily married to her husband, Bill, for over 14 years. Together, they are proud parents of six children and doting grandparents to four grandchildren, who bring immense joy and light to their lives. Professionally, Amber serves as the senior pastor of The Connection Community Church II in Barstow, California. For the past 18 years, she has embraced this role, drawing on nearly two decades of ministry experience.
Her journey in faith and community leadership reflects her commitment to serving others and nurturing spiritual growth. In addition to her pastoral duties, Amber has recently ventured into academia as an adjunct professor of psychology at LABI College. This new opportunity has kindled her enthusiasm for teaching and sharing knowledge.
Amber holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree in Psychology, both with a focus on Industrial Organizational Psychology, from Purdue Global University. Currently, she is pursuing a PhD in Psychology, also concentrating in Industrial Organizational Psychology, at Liberty University, expecting to graduate in 2027. Amber's multifaceted life as a pastor, educator, and family woman showcases her dedication to both her faith and the betterment of those around her.
Los desafíos de La iglesia y el inmigrante
John Alvarez
Pastor John is a Colombian ordained minister in the South Pacific District of the Assemblies of God. He completed his Master's in Pastoral Arts at Azusa Pacific University and is continuing his education with his Doctor of Ministry (DMin). He serves as the Senior Pastor of Victoria Temple Church in Los Angeles, California. Pastor John is married to Margarita, and they have three beautiful children: Daniel, Mía, and Emanuel.
Ser Padres de La Nueva Generación
Claudia Paz
La Pastora Claudia es originaria de Colombia. Ella ha construido una carrera profesional que la ha llevado a ser una empresaria exitosa por alrededor de 28 años. Ella ha dedicado su vida a servir al Señor, y para ello cursó sus estudios teológicos en Angelus Bible Institute, terminó su licenciatura en facultad de teología, su maestría en liderazgo en Life Pacific University . y actualmente está cursando su doctorado en Azusa Pacific University. Ella recalca que, durante su vida cristiana, Dios le ha enseñado a depender totalmente de Él.
Actualmente, La Pastora Claudia junto a su esposo José Luis Paz, plantaron y pastorean Sembradores Church en La ciudad de Fillmore, California. Diariamente trabajan por sembrar el mensaje de Salvación, servir a la comunidad, enseñar, y discipular con el propósito de lograr sanidad, transformación, madurez espiritual, social, académica y cultural. Este discipulado se extiende también a los líderes en el cumplimiento de la Gran Comisión.
Su pasión es pasar tiempo con sus 4 hijos, nueras y ahora su nieta. La meta diaria de la Pastora Claudia es ser instrumento de Bendición, mostrando el amor de Dios, la obra redentora de Jesús, la palabra De Dios y el poder del Espíritu Santo donde quiera que Dios la lleve y dejar un legado de bendición que trascienda.
Crafting Compelling Sermons
Jefte Villalta
Jefte Villalta grew up in the inner city of Los Angeles in a Pastoral family that emigrated from El Salvador. Having lived in South LA, and a few years in Georgia, Jefte’s broad experiences with different communities allows him to diversify his approach to ministry.
Jefte has served as an evangelist, church planter, and Pastor in South LA, and most recently serves on the pastoral team at Revive Church in Long Beach, CA. He’s been serving urban communities for over 20 years. In 2023 he stepped into a new role as the Director for the LA CRU Inner City Team, and continues to live out his passion and mission to Revive Urban Hearts.
He loves sports! When he’s not watching his beloved Lakers, Dodgers, or Raiders, Jefte is hiking, playing basketball or playing soccer with his friends.
Jefte Villalta loves his wife Yanira, both of who are the proud parents of Joshua, Jacob, and their newest addition to the family, their beautiful daughter Julietta. They live in Los Angeles, CA.
Jefte creció en el centro de la ciudad de Los Ángeles en una familia de pastores que venía de El Salvador. Habiendo vivido en el sur de Los Ángeles y algunos años en Georgia, las amplias experiencias de Jefte con diferentes comunidades le permiten diversificar su enfoque del ministerio.
Jefte se ha desempeñado como evangelista, plantador de iglesias y pastor en el sur de Los Ángeles, y actualmente forma parte del equipo pastoral de Revive Church en Long Beach, CA. Lleva más de 20 años sirviendo a comunidades urbanas. Más recientemente, asumió un nuevo rol como Director del equipo de LA CRU Inner City y como misionero en la ciudad de Los Ángeles. Continúa viviendo su pasión y misión de Revive Urban Hearts.
Jefte Villalta ama a su esposa Yanira, quienes son los orgullosos padres de Joshua, Jacob y su nueva incorporación a la familia, su hermosa hija Julietta. Viven en Los Ángeles.
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Worship With:
Guest Speaker
Jay Jimenez
Evangelist & Community Leader
Jay Jimenez is a bilingual evangelist and associate staff leader at "Triumph LA", a multicultural, non-denominational church and humanitarian organization in Los Angeles, CA. With a passion for sharing the message of Jesus, he has dedicated his life to "encouraging and equipping people in their faith" through preaching, mentorship, and community outreach.
Growing up in a diverse city, Jay understands the challenges many face when balancing faith, culture, and personal growth. His ability to speak to these experiences in both English and Spanish has allowed him to connect with a wide audience, from young adults navigating their future to those seeking a renewed sense of purpose.
Through his YouTube channel @JayJimeneztv and Instagram @jayjimeneztv, Jay reaches thousands, using digital media to inspire, teach, and create meaningful conversations about faith and life. Whether in-person or online, his heart remains the same—to help people encounter God in a real and transformative way.
🎉 Enjoy Free In-N-Out at Elevate Conference! 🍔
We’ve got an In-N-Out truck rolling in just for you! When you RSVP, you will receive a ticket for a free In-N-Out dinner during the conference—but hurry, spots are limited! ⏳
🌟 Important: If your In-N-Out ticket isn’t claimed by 6:15 PM, we’ll open it up for first-come, first-served attendees. Don’t miss out on a delicious meal and an incredible night! 🚀🔥
🎉 ¡Disfruta de In-N-Out gratis en la Conferencia Elevate! 🍔
¡Traemos un camión de In-N-Out solo para ti! Al confirmar tu asistencia (RSVP), te daremos un boleto para una cena gratis de In-N-Out durante la conferencia —¡pero date prisa, los lugares son limitados! ⏳
🌟 Importante: Si tu ticket de In-N-Out no se reclama antes de las 6:15 PM, la abriremos para los asistentes en orden de llegada. ¡No te pierdas una comida deliciosa y una noche increíble! 🚀🔥
REGISTRATION
We have reached full capacity for the Workshops for Elevate Conference!
However, if you would like to participate in our evening service, you are more than welcome to do so!
Elevate Conference - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General Information
What is the Elevate Conference? The Elevate Conference is a one-day event designed to inspire, equip, and empower attendees in their faith, leadership, and ministry. It features dynamic speakers, worship experiences, and practical workshops.
When and where is the Elevate Conference taking place? The conference is scheduled for March 8th at LABI College, located at 14209 E Lomitas Ave, La Puente, CA 91746.
Who should attend the Elevate Conference? The conference is open to pastors, leaders, students, and anyone passionate about growing in their faith and leadership. Whether you're involved in ministry, creative arts, business, or personal development, this event is for you.
Registration & Attendance
How much does it cost to attend? The Elevate Conference is free to attend.
How do I register for the conference? You can register online at labi.edu/elevate. Early registration is recommended to secure your spot.
Can I register on the day of the event? While on-site registration may be available, it is highly recommended to register in advance to ensure your participation.
Event Schedule & Activities
Will there be multiple workshops to choose from? Yes, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in various workshops
Will there be opportunities to interact with the speakers? Some sessions may include Q&A segments, allowing attendees to engage directly with the speakers.
Food & Logistics
Will meals be provided during the conference? A limited number of attendees will receive dinner vouchers for the In-N-Out truck. To claim a voucher, please visit labi.edu/elevate for more information.
Is lodging available for out-of-town attendees? Lodging is not provided. Attendees traveling from out of town are encouraged to arrange their own accommodations.
Is parking available at the venue? Yes, free parking is available on-site. Carpooling is encouraged to accommodate all guests.
Additional Information
What should I bring to the conference? Attendees are encouraged to bring a notebook, Bible, and a heart ready to learn and grow.
How can I stay updated on conference news and updates? For the latest information, visit labi.edu/elevate and follow LABI College on social media platforms.
Who can I contact for further questions? For additional inquiries, please email admissions@labi.edu or call 626-968-1328
Conferencia Elevate - Preguntas Frecuentes (FAQs)
Información General
¿Qué es la Conferencia Elevate?
La Conferencia Elevate es un evento de un día diseñado para inspirar, equipar y empoderar a los asistentes en su fe, liderazgo y ministerio. Contará con oradores dinámicos, experiencias de adoración y talleres prácticos.
¿Cuándo y dónde se llevará a cabo la Conferencia Elevate?
La conferencia se llevará a cabo el 8 de marzo en LABI College, ubicado en 14209 E Lomitas Ave, La Puente, CA 91746.
¿Quién debería asistir a la Conferencia Elevate?
La conferencia está abierta a pastores, líderes, estudiantes y cualquier persona apasionada por crecer en su fe y liderazgo. Ya sea que estés involucrado en el ministerio, las artes creativas, los negocios o el desarrollo personal, este evento es para ti.
Registro y Asistencia
¿Cuánto cuesta asistir?
La Conferencia Elevate es completamente gratuita.
¿Cómo me registro para la conferencia?
Puedes registrarte en línea en labi.edu/elevate. Se recomienda registrarse con anticipación para asegurar tu lugar.
¿Puedo registrarme el mismo día del evento?
Aunque podría haber registro en el lugar, se recomienda encarecidamente registrarse con anticipación para garantizar tu participación.
Programa del Evento y Actividades
¿Habrá diferentes talleres para elegir?
Sí, los asistentes tendrán la oportunidad de participar en varios talleres sobre liderazgo, ministerio, artes creativas y desarrollo personal.
¿Habrá oportunidades para interactuar con los oradores?
Algunas sesiones incluirán segmentos de preguntas y respuestas (Q&A), lo que permitirá a los asistentes interactuar directamente con los oradores.
Comida y Logística
¿Se proporcionarán comidas durante la conferencia?
Un número limitado de asistentes recibirá vales de comida para el camión de In-N-Out. Para reclamar un vale, visita labi.edu/elevate y obtén más información.
¿Se ofrece hospedaje para los asistentes que vienen de fuera de la ciudad?
No, no se proporciona alojamiento. Se recomienda a los asistentes que viajan desde fuera de la ciudad que organicen su propio hospedaje.
¿Habrá estacionamiento en el lugar?
Sí, habrá estacionamiento gratuito en el sitio. Se recomienda compartir el viaje con otros asistentes para facilitar el acceso.
Información Adicional
¿Qué debo llevar a la conferencia?
Se recomienda que los asistentes traigan una libreta, Biblia y una actitud dispuesta a aprender y crecer
.
¿Cómo puedo mantenerme informado sobre noticias y actualizaciones de la conferencia?
Para obtener la información más reciente, visita labi.edu/elevate y sigue a LABI College en sus plataformas de redes sociales.
¿A quién puedo contactar si tengo más preguntas?
Para consultas adicionales, envía un correo electrónico a admissions@labi.edu o llama al 626-968-1328.