leadership summit teaser :: one

The Leadership Summit is coming -- August 7, 8. If you've never been, this is your year. When I had the privilege to attend, I came away pumped up! While Erwin McManus was speaking a couple of years ago, I couldn't sit down. I had to get up, pace the lobby, and watch him on the TV. I was moved and inspired. I remember thinking, "If I am crazy, that's okay, so is this guy."

You may not be familiar with this year's speakers, so I decided to give you a few Leadership Summit teasers to introduce you to them. number 1: (one of my personal favorites) Gary Haugen, who serves as President and CEO of International Justice Mission. IJM is a human rights agency that secures justice for victims of slavery, sexual exploitation and other forms of violent oppression. IJM lawyers, investigators and aftercare professionals work with local governments to ensure victim rescue, to prosecute perpetrators and to strengthen the community and civic factors that promote functioning public justice systems. Frontline, exciting stuff! Gary grew up in Sacramento and attended Arcade Baptist Church.

Gary and IJM are a great example of followers of Jesus using their unique training and gifts to bring light and kingdom-like justice to the dark corners of our world.

He is a very interesting speaker. Check out this podcast on Catalyst (it can also be found at the Catalyst iTunes podcasts).