Courtesy of Jared Mosher

Nearly 2,500 attendees gathered for the ATI Regional Conference in Big Sandy, Texas, on May 1–4, 2007. The conference was held at the International ALERT Academy and focused on the theme of “The Power of One Accord for Cities of Light,” encouraging participants to have unity in their marriage, family, and community.

The conference began with a patriotic flag presentation by ALERT men and ALERT cadets, including a time of recognition and prayer for graduates of the ALERT Academy who are now serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Courtesy of Jared Mosher
Courtesy of Brent Hickey

Ministry leaders welcomed and addressed the group, including Chris Hogan, president of ATI, Dr. Billy Boring, board member of IBLP, and Bill Gothard, president of IBLP.

Throughout the week, fathers gathered early in the morning for special teaching sessions with Bill Gothard and Doug Small.
Courtesy of Rowan Gilson
Courtesy of Rowan Gilson

Many notable speakers shared at the conference, including Jim Logan, who presented a powerful session about abiding in Christ.

Phil Bowman offered insights from his family’s homeschooling experience at the Parent Training Sessions.
Courtesy of Rowan Gilson
Courtesy of Rowan Gilson

Thursday was a highlight of the week as attendees participated in a day of delighting in the Lord. The sessions and activities throughout the day provided time for families to focus on the Lord together.

Families gathered to pray for one another, bless one another, and dedicate their lives to the Lord.
Courtesy of Rowan Gilson
Courtesy of Brent Hickey

The students attending the conference were able to participate in a variety of programs and activities suitable to their ages and interests.

The ALERT Cadet program offered activities for boys aged 8–15. Participants learned about developing a heart that is totally committed to Christ and enjoyed group activities including rappelling, canoeing, and more.
Courtesy of McPherson Pictures
Courtesy of Brent Hickey

The Children’s Institute provided a great place for children aged 4–7 to learn important lessons through songs, stories, and crafts.

Through team time and group assemblies, the children learned about building God’s truth into their lives and loving God with their whole heart.
Courtesy of Brent Hickey
Courtesy of Jared Mosher

Girls aged 8–11 participated in the Pre-EXCEL program. This year’s lessons focused on the heart, and attendees considered who holds their heart.

The girls enjoyed the small group times as they made new friends and learned about bringing honor to God and to their fathers.
Courtesy of Jared Mosher
Courtesy of Brent Hickey

The COMMIT program challenged young ladies aged 12–15 to take their walk with God seriously and to love Him with their whole heart.

Participants enjoyed dynamic group sessions, focused small group discussions, and fun activities.
Courtesy of Abigail Vander Hamm
Courtesy of Brent Hickey

Students aged 12 and older attended special sessions that focused on key issues, such as life purpose, relationships, and reaching others for Christ.

Speakers such as Bill Gothard, Doug Small, and Paul and Jenny Speed shared insights from their walks with God and challenged the students to live for Him with their whole heart.
Courtesy of Jared Mosher
Courtesy of Abigail Vander Hamm

Pen and paper were busy throughout the week as attendees recorded insights from the sessions.

Attendees looked through displays on the student programs available through ATI and were able to speak with representatives who answered questions and shared personal experiences.
Courtesy of Jared Mosher
Courtesy of Jared Mosher

Throughout the week, faithful staff members worked behind the scenes to make the conference a success.

When severe weather hit the campus mid-week, the staff members of the ALERT Academy effectively met the challenge. They provided emergency housing for washed out campers and diligently prepared for other possible needs. Thank you, ALERT!
Courtesy of Brent Hickey