Connecting Compassionate Response with the Arts and Worship

The needs around us are growing—crisis, trauma, and mental health struggles touch nearly every family and congregation.

At the Creative Compassion Conference October 16-18, 2026 in Indianapolis we’ll explore how congregations and artists

can respond to a hurting world with Spirit-led, arts-based, trauma-informed creative approaches.

 When words fail, the arts can still speak. When hope falters, music uplifts. When hearts break, creativity can become a lifeline.

What is the Creative Compassion Conference?

A first-of-its-kind gathering that brings together Christian ministry, trauma-informed compassion, and Spirit-led creative arts practices.
The Creative Compassion Conference is a unique gathering for compassionate creatives, church and ministry leaders, artists, musicians, and anyone longing to explore how creativity connects with the Christian call to compassionate response.
Together, we’ll learn, build community, and deepen our capacity for compassion. We’ll create, worship, and make space for the ancient yet often neglected practice of lament.
We are living at a pivotal moment. There is an increase in mental health struggles and trauma-related challenges, while understanding is also growing of how trauma affects the entire being.  At the same time, mounting evidence affirms that creative and artful practices, especially when combined with faith, offer powerful pathways toward healing and restoration.
In this moment, the Church and believers have an opportunity to return to our roots and take the lead in compassionate response with the help of artful creativity.
At the Creative Compassion Conference, we’ll discover how God equips us through creativity to bring hope and healing to a hurting world.
Expect a unique blend of:
  • Inspiring teaching on creative compassion techniques and theology
  • Practical, hands-on training workshops and tracks
  • Cutting edge ideas and inspiration for creative ministry
  •  Artful worship and ministry times
  • Time around the table with friends new and old
Our hope is that you leave refreshed, inspired, and equipped for the ministry of compassion you carry.

 

Who should come?

  • Compassionate Creatives
  • Artists
  • Pastors 
  • Worship Leaders
  • Lay Leaders
  • Care Ministry Leaders
  • Relief Organization Leaders
Creative Compassion Conference is designed to refresh, encourage, inspire, and equip you as you serve a hurting world, your local church, and those around you with creativity and compassion.

   Speakers

 

Workshop Track Sponsor

Vineyard Worship

Presenting a Series of Workshops: "Cultivating Compassion with Music and Worship"

FAQ

 

Hosted by Indy Vineyard Church
Co-Produced by New Renaissance Arts Movement

Supported by a grant from Calvin Institute of Christian Worship, Grand Rapids, MI, with funds from Lilly Endowment