The Mobilizing Medicine and Missions (M3) Conference is a two-day global health and missions conference designed to bring together doctors, nurses, dentists, other healthcare professionals and medical students, as well as non-medical professionals and students, who have a desire to use their skills to meet pressing global health and related community needs.
The vision of M3 is to help people connect with others, be inspired, and find their mission. At the 2026 M3 Conference, you can connect with others in networking sessions, be inspired by dozens of speakers, and find your mission in the Exhibit Hall filled with over 60 organizations providing opportunities to serve both locally and abroad.
The M3 Conference reaches around the world to touch the hearts and lives of people in need. Don't miss this great opportunity to be part of a movement that is changing this world for the better. Mark your calendar and register to join us on February 20–21, 2026, in Houston, Texas!
2026 M3 Conference Hosts
2026 M3 Conference Speakers
Rebecca L. Meyer, PhD, MSNed, FCN, BSN, RN
College of Nursing Professor
California Baptist University
Read More
Agneta Odera, MD, FCS-ECSA
Pediatric General and Cardiothoracic Surgeon
AGC Tenwek Hospital, Kenya
Read More
Diane Petrie, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Infectious Diseases Nurse Practitioner
Children’s Mercy Kansas City
Read More
Keir Thelander, MD, FACS, FWACS, FCS (ECSA)
Executive Vice President
Pan-African Academy of Christian Surgeons
Read More
Mark Topazian, MD
Gastroenterologist & Professor of Medicine
SIM USA (Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)
Read MoreAdvanced Pricing
Main conference registration includes access to the Exhibit Hall, access to Plenary and Breakout speaker sessions, dessert on Friday, and breakfast and boxed lunch on Saturday. Up to 3 CME credits are available during the main conference Breakout Sessions for an additional fee (see pricing chart below); CLICK HERE to learn more about this CME option.
(A Pre-Conference Workshop is also available for an additional fee with an option to earn up to 7 CME credits; CLICK HERE for more information about the Pre-Conference Workshop.)
NOTE: The prices below are available online through Thursday, February 20. Starting Friday, February 21, registration will be available onsite and different pricing will apply.
| Attendee Registrant Type | *Early Bird rates end December 31, 2024 |
|---|---|
| Physician/Dentist | $75 / $95 |
| Nurse | $55 / $75 |
| Other Medical Professional Allied Health, Admin., etc. | $55 / $75 |
| Non Medical Professional Outside the medical industry | $55 / $75 |
| Missionary Currently active in missions or retired missionary | $55 / $65 |
| Medical Resident-in-Training | $55 / $65 |
| Student High school, college, medical | $55 / $65 |
| Add up to 3 CME Credits during Main Conference Breakout Sessions | $50 / $50 (this fee is in addition to the registration fees listed above) |
| Add a Pre-Conference Workshop | $80 without CME / $120 with up to 7 CME Credits |
*Early Bird rates end December 31, 2024
EVENT REGISTRATION CANCELLATION/REFUND POLICY:
- No refunds will be issued for cancelled registrations or no shows.
- Please note that in the event of circumstances beyond its control, Lakewood Church reserves the right to cancel any event. In the event of a cancellation, event registrations will be refunded; however, Lakewood Church is not liable for any expenses (i.e. travel, etc.) incurred by participants as a result of such cancellation.
2026 M3 Conference Schedule
February 20–21, 2026
Lakewood Church | Houston, TX
Friday, February 20
8:00am
Pre-Conference Workshop – 4th Floor
4:00 p.m.
Dinner on Own
6:00 p.m.
Main Conference Registration/Check-In – 2nd Floor
Exhibit Hall – 2nd Floor
Lakewood Church Bookstore opens (Closes at 10:30 p.m.) – 2nd Floor
7:00 p.m.
Spiritual Influence
Speaker: Mark Topazian, MD
Room: Main Sanctuary
Description:
We all want to have spiritual influence in the lives of other people. In fact, that's one way of describing what medical missions is all about. But what is “spiritual influence,” how do we gain it, and how does it work? This talk explores how God uses us—in healthcare settings and beyond—to draw others to him.
Soul Care: Living Filled to Fully Live
Speaker: Debra Fileta
Room: Main Sanctuary
Description:
Jesus calls us to be FILLED. And when it comes to ministry, our level of effectiveness directly correlates to our level of fullness. Unfortunately, many in ministry are feeling empty and depleted. In this plenary session, licensed counselor, author, and national speaker, Debra Fileta, will guide us into the reasons why we neglect our personal well-being in ministry, and look to the life of Jesus for a spiritual and psychological approach to staying FILLED and healthy: mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically. This session will replenish your soul and help fuel you for the great privilege and responsibility of serving Jesus for the long haul!
My Journey in Training and Discipleship: "Keep Showing Up"
Speaker: Keir Thelander, MD, FACS, FWACS, FCS (ECFA)
Room: Main Sanctuary
Description:
Dr. Thelander will share his personal experience serving with PAACS at Bongolo Hospital that will compel you to integrate training and discipleship in your personal journey. Attendees will be challenged to incorporate these principles of training and discipleship as they serve and invest in the next generation.
Spiritual Influence
Speaker: Mark Topazian, MD
Room: Main Sanctuary
Description:
We all want to have spiritual influence in the lives of other people. In fact, that's one way of describing what medical missions is all about. But what is “spiritual influence,” how do we gain it, and how does it work? This talk explores how God uses us—in healthcare settings and beyond—to draw others to him.
Soul Care: Living Filled to Fully Live
Speaker: Debra Fileta
Room: Main Sanctuary
Description:
Jesus calls us to be FILLED. And when it comes to ministry, our level of effectiveness directly correlates to our level of fullness. Unfortunately, many in ministry are feeling empty and depleted. In this plenary session, licensed counselor, author, and national speaker, Debra Fileta, will guide us into the reasons why we neglect our personal well-being in ministry, and look to the life of Jesus for a spiritual and psychological approach to staying FILLED and healthy: mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically. This session will replenish your soul and help fuel you for the great privilege and responsibility of serving Jesus for the long haul!
My Journey in Training and Discipleship: "Keep Showing Up"
Speaker: Keir Thelander, MD, FACS, FWACS, FCS (ECFA)
Room: Main Sanctuary
Description:
Dr. Thelander will share his personal experience serving with PAACS at Bongolo Hospital that will compel you to integrate training and discipleship in your personal journey. Attendees will be challenged to incorporate these principles of training and discipleship as they serve and invest in the next generation.
9:00 p.m.
Dessert & Coffee – 2nd Floor
Exhibit Hall – 2nd Floor
Prayer Room – 2nd Floor
10:30 p.m.
Exhibit Hall Closes
Lakewood Church Bookstore Closes
Saturday, February 21
7:00 a.m.
Breakfast – 2nd Floor
Exhibit Hall – 2nd Floor
Prayer Room – 2nd Floor
8:30 a.m.
Worship & Project of the Year
Speaker: Keir Thelander, MD, FACS, FWACS, FCS (ECFA)
Room: Main Sanctuary
Description:
Explore the mission and vision of PAACS—our Project of the Year—in this plenary session and hear a compelling call to teach and disciple while serving. Dr. Keir will clarify the PAACS model, which integrates spiritual discipleship with medical training. Attendees will be challenged to dedicate their time and resources to investing in the next generation of medical leaders.
Worship & Project of the Year
Speaker: Keir Thelander, MD, FACS, FWACS, FCS (ECFA)
Room: Main Sanctuary
Description:
Explore the mission and vision of PAACS—our Project of the Year—in this plenary session and hear a compelling call to teach and disciple while serving. Dr. Keir will clarify the PAACS model, which integrates spiritual discipleship with medical training. Attendees will be challenged to dedicate their time and resources to investing in the next generation of medical leaders.
9:00 a.m.
Chronic Disease Amid Chronic Poverty
Speaker: Nicholas Comninellis, MD, MPH, DIMPH
Room: Mission Control, 3rd Floor
Description:
Infectious diseases have been the leading cause of morbidity and mortality throughout history. Today, however, the burden of infectious diseases is diminishing while the mobility from chronic, non-infectious diseases is growing dramatically. Low-resource nations are particularly ill-equipped to manage diabetes, hypertension, chronic lung, and chronic heart diseases. This session illuminates the power of lifestyle improvements, continuity of primary care, provision of life-saving medications, and public health policy.
Building Bridges and Burning Barriers
Speaker: James A. Lee
Room: Trailblazers, 2nd Floor
Description:
Discover what it means to build bridges and burn barriers—creating unity while removing obstacles that divide. This session equips leaders to model Christ-centered unity, break down practical and spiritual barriers, and inspire collaboration across communities for lasting impact.
Reshaping Global Health Policy: New Opportunities for Medical Missions and the Church
Speaker: Steven Eng
Room: Loft, 4th Floor
Description:
This session will explore the public-private partnership that's long existed between the church and government in advancing global health priorities around the world. Attendees will hear updates from key faith leaders, policy experts, and practitioners on changes in global health policy, programming, and funding that have occurred in recent years. We will highlight emerging opportunities for the church and faith-based organizations to meaningfully engage, partner, and advocate in this new landscape. Through a thoughtful panel discussion, participants will be invited to consider how faith communities can faithfully and effectively contribute to global health efforts around the world.
Empowering Communities: Culturally Competent Strategies for Sustainable Global Health Initiatives
Speaker: Diane Petrie, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Room: Warehouse, 4th Floor
Description:
Medical mission trips offer nurses unique opportunities to serve across cultures, but lasting impact requires more than short-term care. This session highlights the importance of cultural humility, community-driven strategies, and empowering local leadership to ensure sustainability. Through a nurse-led initiative, participants will learn how to conduct community health assessments, collaborate with local stakeholders, and implement effective interventions like Community Health Worker and Community Health Evangelism programs. Discover how culturally competent approaches can transform global health and strengthen nursing leadership worldwide.
Reaching the Least Reached: Promoting an Accessible Church for People with Disabilities
Speaker: Jennifer Hoines, PT, DPT
Room: 3022–3023, 3rd floor
Description:
People with disabilities often face physical, societal, and spiritual barriers that limit access to the Gospel and church community. This session will explore the urgent need for accessibility, drawing on Jesus' example of inclusion and compassion. Practical steps, real-life stories, and insights from physical therapy will inspire participants to create churches that welcome and empower all, bringing eternal transformation.
The Saline Process Workshop: Why is faith important in Healthcare?
Speaker: Mark Topazian, MD and William Griffin, DDS
Room: Chapel, 3rd Floor
Description:
Have you ever wondered if it's OK to interact with patients about the spiritual dimension of health? Saline Process is a 10-hour workshop that presents concepts and practical tools for integrating faith into patient interactions. We're presenting 3 hours of Saline Process content at M3 this year. In this first hour we’ll look at the empirical evidence that spirituality matters to people's bodily health, consider secular guidelines on spirituality in the clinic and hospital, and discuss concepts that guide clinical conversations about spirituality.
Chronic Disease Amid Chronic Poverty
Speaker: Nicholas Comninellis, MD, MPH, DIMPH
Room: Mission Control, 3rd Floor
Description:
Infectious diseases have been the leading cause of morbidity and mortality throughout history. Today, however, the burden of infectious diseases is diminishing while the mobility from chronic, non-infectious diseases is growing dramatically. Low-resource nations are particularly ill-equipped to manage diabetes, hypertension, chronic lung, and chronic heart diseases. This session illuminates the power of lifestyle improvements, continuity of primary care, provision of life-saving medications, and public health policy.
Building Bridges and Burning Barriers
Speaker: James A. Lee
Room: Trailblazers, 2nd Floor
Description:
Discover what it means to build bridges and burn barriers—creating unity while removing obstacles that divide. This session equips leaders to model Christ-centered unity, break down practical and spiritual barriers, and inspire collaboration across communities for lasting impact.
Reshaping Global Health Policy: New Opportunities for Medical Missions and the Church
Speaker: Steven Eng
Room: Loft, 4th Floor
Description:
This session will explore the public-private partnership that's long existed between the church and government in advancing global health priorities around the world. Attendees will hear updates from key faith leaders, policy experts, and practitioners on changes in global health policy, programming, and funding that have occurred in recent years. We will highlight emerging opportunities for the church and faith-based organizations to meaningfully engage, partner, and advocate in this new landscape. Through a thoughtful panel discussion, participants will be invited to consider how faith communities can faithfully and effectively contribute to global health efforts around the world.
Empowering Communities: Culturally Competent Strategies for Sustainable Global Health Initiatives
Speaker: Diane Petrie, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Room: Warehouse, 4th Floor
Description:
Medical mission trips offer nurses unique opportunities to serve across cultures, but lasting impact requires more than short-term care. This session highlights the importance of cultural humility, community-driven strategies, and empowering local leadership to ensure sustainability. Through a nurse-led initiative, participants will learn how to conduct community health assessments, collaborate with local stakeholders, and implement effective interventions like Community Health Worker and Community Health Evangelism programs. Discover how culturally competent approaches can transform global health and strengthen nursing leadership worldwide.
Reaching the Least Reached: Promoting an Accessible Church for People with Disabilities
Speaker: Jennifer Hoines, PT, DPT
Room: 3022–3023, 3rd floor
Description:
People with disabilities often face physical, societal, and spiritual barriers that limit access to the Gospel and church community. This session will explore the urgent need for accessibility, drawing on Jesus' example of inclusion and compassion. Practical steps, real-life stories, and insights from physical therapy will inspire participants to create churches that welcome and empower all, bringing eternal transformation.
The Saline Process Workshop: Why is faith important in Healthcare?
Speaker: Mark Topazian, MD and William Griffin, DDS
Room: Chapel, 3rd Floor
Description:
Have you ever wondered if it's OK to interact with patients about the spiritual dimension of health? Saline Process is a 10-hour workshop that presents concepts and practical tools for integrating faith into patient interactions. We're presenting 3 hours of Saline Process content at M3 this year. In this first hour we’ll look at the empirical evidence that spirituality matters to people's bodily health, consider secular guidelines on spirituality in the clinic and hospital, and discuss concepts that guide clinical conversations about spirituality.
10:00 a.m.
Appropriate Technology for Global Health
Speaker: Nicholas Comninellis, MD, MPH, DIMPH
Room: Mission Control, 3rd Floor
Description:
Healthcare is chronically in crisis, especially in low-resource settings. One important principle for successful health systems is appropriate use of technology. It must be reliable, sustainable, and acceptable. Some appropriate uses often include rapid diagnostic tests, mobile health information systems, ultrasound imaging, and adherence to Essential Drugs Lists. Collaboration among healthcare participants is essential, increasing the likelihood that technology will be appropriately applied. This presentation includes interactive case studies and role-play.
Christ to Care: The Spiritual Roots of Medicine
Speaker: Keir Thelander, MD, FACS, FWACS, FCS (ECFA)
Room: Trailblazers, 2nd Floor
Description:
This session examines the Christian roots of hospitals, and the role faith has played in the history of medicine. By comparing the evolution of healthcare in the United States and Africa, it highlights the loss of spiritual influence in Western medicine and the opportunity to preserve Christ-centered care in Africa. Healthcare workers and students will be encouraged to consider their calling to serve the underserved while protecting the spiritual mission of healthcare.
Soul Care for Those Who Serve
Speaker: Debra Fileta
Room: Loft, 4th Floor
Description:
Ministry effectiveness flows from spiritual and emotional fullness. Yet many in ministry feel empty, leading to burnout, mental health struggles, and broken relationships. In this seminar, licensed counselor and author Debra Fileta will expose false beliefs that keep us depleted and reveal God's design for living filled. Discover six life-giving rhythms Jesus modeled—affirmed by scripture and psychology—and leave with practical steps to stay healthy and thrive in ministry.
Nurses on Mission
Speaker: Rebecca L. Meyer, PhD, MSNed, FCN, BSN, RN
Room: Warehouse, 4th Floor
Description:
Nurses and other healthcare team members can use their gifts and talents to provide evidence-based care to those who are broken, hurt, suffering, and vulnerable. The Lord has placed each believer in the right place at the right time to be a blessing to others. The entire healthcare team can be the hands and feet of Jesus, providing holistic care and meeting people's physical, spiritual, emotional, and psychosocial needs. Discover the best ways to deliver this holistic care, regardless of where you are serving.
“The Doctor, the Officer, and the Survivor”: What Healthcare Practitioners Can Do to Fight Human Trafficking
Speaker: Anna Swason, JD
Room: 3022–3023, 3rd floor
Description:
The session will bring law enforcement practitioners perspectives on the instrumental role of healthcare practitioners in the fight against human trafficking. You will hear how to identify signs of human trafficking, what you can do, and be encouraged by real life examples of healthcare professionals and law enforcement working together to support survivors of sex trafficking.
The Saline Process Workshop: Integrating Faith into Clinical Practice: Challenges and Opportunities
Speaker: Mark Topazian, MD and William Griffin, DDS
Room: Chapel, 3rd Floor
Description:
In this second hour of Saline Process at M3 we'll discuss the opportunities for integrating spiritual and physical health in clinical settings, the barriers to communicating about spirituality in those settings, and how we can positively respond. We'll also discuss how to become a person of spiritual influence, in healthcare and beyond.
Appropriate Technology for Global Health
Speaker: Nicholas Comninellis, MD, MPH, DIMPH
Room: Mission Control, 3rd Floor
Description:
Healthcare is chronically in crisis, especially in low-resource settings. One important principle for successful health systems is appropriate use of technology. It must be reliable, sustainable, and acceptable. Some appropriate uses often include rapid diagnostic tests, mobile health information systems, ultrasound imaging, and adherence to Essential Drugs Lists. Collaboration among healthcare participants is essential, increasing the likelihood that technology will be appropriately applied. This presentation includes interactive case studies and role-play.
Christ to Care: The Spiritual Roots of Medicine
Speaker: Keir Thelander, MD, FACS, FWACS, FCS (ECFA)
Room: Trailblazers, 2nd Floor
Description:
This session examines the Christian roots of hospitals, and the role faith has played in the history of medicine. By comparing the evolution of healthcare in the United States and Africa, it highlights the loss of spiritual influence in Western medicine and the opportunity to preserve Christ-centered care in Africa. Healthcare workers and students will be encouraged to consider their calling to serve the underserved while protecting the spiritual mission of healthcare.
Soul Care for Those Who Serve
Speaker: Debra Fileta
Room: Loft, 4th Floor
Description:
Ministry effectiveness flows from spiritual and emotional fullness. Yet many in ministry feel empty, leading to burnout, mental health struggles, and broken relationships. In this seminar, licensed counselor and author Debra Fileta will expose false beliefs that keep us depleted and reveal God's design for living filled. Discover six life-giving rhythms Jesus modeled—affirmed by scripture and psychology—and leave with practical steps to stay healthy and thrive in ministry.
Nurses on Mission
Speaker: Rebecca L. Meyer, PhD, MSNed, FCN, BSN, RN
Room: Warehouse, 4th Floor
Description:
Nurses and other healthcare team members can use their gifts and talents to provide evidence-based care to those who are broken, hurt, suffering, and vulnerable. The Lord has placed each believer in the right place at the right time to be a blessing to others. The entire healthcare team can be the hands and feet of Jesus, providing holistic care and meeting people's physical, spiritual, emotional, and psychosocial needs. Discover the best ways to deliver this holistic care, regardless of where you are serving.
“The Doctor, the Officer, and the Survivor”: What Healthcare Practitioners Can Do to Fight Human Trafficking
Speaker: Anna Swason, JD
Room: 3022–3023, 3rd floor
Description:
The session will bring law enforcement practitioners perspectives on the instrumental role of healthcare practitioners in the fight against human trafficking. You will hear how to identify signs of human trafficking, what you can do, and be encouraged by real life examples of healthcare professionals and law enforcement working together to support survivors of sex trafficking.
The Saline Process Workshop: Integrating Faith into Clinical Practice: Challenges and Opportunities
Speaker: Mark Topazian, MD and William Griffin, DDS
Room: Chapel, 3rd Floor
Description:
In this second hour of Saline Process at M3 we'll discuss the opportunities for integrating spiritual and physical health in clinical settings, the barriers to communicating about spirituality in those settings, and how we can positively respond. We'll also discuss how to become a person of spiritual influence, in healthcare and beyond.
11:00 a.m.
Controversies In Short-Term Healthcare Missions
Speaker: Nicholas Comninellis, MD, MPH, DIMPH
Room: Mission Control, 3rd Floor
Description:
Beyond the popularity of short-term healthcare missions, serious questions are being asked regarding their ethics and effectiveness. Related concerns include lack of continuity, cultural relevance, and competition with existing healthcare services. A key element in assuring ethics and effectiveness is national partnerships: cooperation with host professionals, institutions, and community leaders who guide the healthcare missions in provision of materials, educational instruction, or patient care.
Daring Beyond the Horizon
Speaker: Agneta Odera, MD, FCS-ECSA
Room: Trailblazers, 2nd Floor
Description:
God constantly inspires us to dream big, to dare more boldly, to stop sailing close to the shore and to venture into rougher seas, whereas Francis Drake puts it, “the storms show us God's mastery, where in losing the sight of land we shall find the stars". We may feel ill equipped or need to see and understand the bigger picture before we can yield to the quiet nudge but all He asks us to do is step out in faith, and He gives us a peace beyond human understanding to handle what we feel called to do, no matter how uncharted the path might be. Developing and growing a vibrant cardiac program and training in rural Sub-Saharan Africa might be impossible, but with God... all things are, for His glory.
Global Health and Missions: Collaboration between the Church and Nations
Speaker: Jenny Dyer, PhD, Melanie Brown and Canaan McCaslin
Room: Loft, 4th Floor
Description:
The 2030 Collaborative will host a dialogue about the future of global health and foreign assistance and the role of the faith community at the intersection of missions, philanthropy, government, the private sector, and the Church. Together, we will explore how pastors, influencers, and faith leaders can help educate and inspire the Church to reengage on these issues and ensure that the United States continues to support the most vulnerable communities around the world through lifesaving programs. This is a pivotal moment to build on the epic and historic work the Church has led for more than 30 years to end epidemics like HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria and to address other urgent global health challenges.
Along for the Ride—Jesus in the Process
Speaker: David A. Bucklin
Room: 3022–3023, 3rd floor
Description:
Join David Bucklin, Assistant Director and Technical Supervisor for Samaritan's Purse, as he shares how God has guided his journey from engineering design to global ministry leadership. From his first experience in the Democratic Republic of Congo to projects spanning solar energy, facility design, and emergency response, David's story reveals how faith and technical expertise intersect in real-world challenges. Discover practical lessons on trusting God through every step and gain insights for serving with excellence.
The Saline Process Workshop: Practical Tools for Encouraging Spiritual Health in Clinical Practice
Speaker: Mark Topazian, MD and William Griffin, DDS
Room: Chapel, 3rd Floor
Description:
In this third hour of Saline Process at M3 we will focus on practical methods of interacting with patients about their spirituality. We'll describe how to take a spiritual history and practice this together. We'll also discuss other tools, such as the role of prayer in clinical settings.
Discerning God's Call in Different Seasons of Life
Speaker: Mary Hermiz, RN
Room: Warehouse, 4th Floor
Description:
God's call shapes every transition and defining moment in a life devoted to His mission. Drawing from Mary Hermiz's more than 35 years of faithful service, this session offers a powerful reflection on discerning His will through seasons of clarity and uncertainty, open doors and closed ones. It is designed to inspire and guide those seeking direction in missionary service, reminding them that every step is part of His greater plan.
Controversies In Short-Term Healthcare Missions
Speaker: Nicholas Comninellis, MD, MPH, DIMPH
Room: Mission Control, 3rd Floor
Description:
Beyond the popularity of short-term healthcare missions, serious questions are being asked regarding their ethics and effectiveness. Related concerns include lack of continuity, cultural relevance, and competition with existing healthcare services. A key element in assuring ethics and effectiveness is national partnerships: cooperation with host professionals, institutions, and community leaders who guide the healthcare missions in provision of materials, educational instruction, or patient care.
Daring Beyond the Horizon
Speaker: Agneta Odera, MD, FCS-ECSA
Room: Trailblazers, 2nd Floor
Description:
God constantly inspires us to dream big, to dare more boldly, to stop sailing close to the shore and to venture into rougher seas, whereas Francis Drake puts it, “the storms show us God's mastery, where in losing the sight of land we shall find the stars". We may feel ill equipped or need to see and understand the bigger picture before we can yield to the quiet nudge but all He asks us to do is step out in faith, and He gives us a peace beyond human understanding to handle what we feel called to do, no matter how uncharted the path might be. Developing and growing a vibrant cardiac program and training in rural Sub-Saharan Africa might be impossible, but with God... all things are, for His glory.
Global Health and Missions: Collaboration between the Church and Nations
Speaker: Jenny Dyer, PhD, Melanie Brown and Canaan McCaslin
Room: Loft, 4th Floor
Description:
The 2030 Collaborative will host a dialogue about the future of global health and foreign assistance and the role of the faith community at the intersection of missions, philanthropy, government, the private sector, and the Church. Together, we will explore how pastors, influencers, and faith leaders can help educate and inspire the Church to reengage on these issues and ensure that the United States continues to support the most vulnerable communities around the world through lifesaving programs. This is a pivotal moment to build on the epic and historic work the Church has led for more than 30 years to end epidemics like HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria and to address other urgent global health challenges.
Along for the Ride—Jesus in the Process
Speaker: David A. Bucklin
Room: 3022–3023, 3rd floor
Description:
Join David Bucklin, Assistant Director and Technical Supervisor for Samaritan's Purse, as he shares how God has guided his journey from engineering design to global ministry leadership. From his first experience in the Democratic Republic of Congo to projects spanning solar energy, facility design, and emergency response, David's story reveals how faith and technical expertise intersect in real-world challenges. Discover practical lessons on trusting God through every step and gain insights for serving with excellence.
The Saline Process Workshop: Practical Tools for Encouraging Spiritual Health in Clinical Practice
Speaker: Mark Topazian, MD and William Griffin, DDS
Room: Chapel, 3rd Floor
Description:
In this third hour of Saline Process at M3 we will focus on practical methods of interacting with patients about their spirituality. We'll describe how to take a spiritual history and practice this together. We'll also discuss other tools, such as the role of prayer in clinical settings.
Discerning God's Call in Different Seasons of Life
Speaker: Mary Hermiz, RN
Room: Warehouse, 4th Floor
Description:
God's call shapes every transition and defining moment in a life devoted to His mission. Drawing from Mary Hermiz's more than 35 years of faithful service, this session offers a powerful reflection on discerning His will through seasons of clarity and uncertainty, open doors and closed ones. It is designed to inspire and guide those seeking direction in missionary service, reminding them that every step is part of His greater plan.
12:00 p.m.
Lunch – 2nd Floor
Exhibit Hall – 2nd Floor
Prayer Room – 2nd Floor
Nurses' Networking Session – Trailblazers Room, 2nd Floor
Students' Networking Session – The Loft, 4th Floor
Lakewood Church Bookstore – 2nd Floor
2:00 p.m.
Tension Management: Believing God in Every Step
Speaker: D. Ryan Hall, MD
Room: Main Sanctuary
Description:
How can you serve God while pursuing school, training, and a career in academics? Join Dr. Ryan Hall as he shares his inspiring journey from rural Oklahoma to an academic surgery career at the world's largest medical center. Discover the growing role of global health in academic medicine and explore how Christian mission hospitals can shape the future of healthcare training. Be encouraged to trust that God can use every step of your journey to make an impact far beyond your expectations.
Cultural Humility and the Gospel: Serving Across Borders and Barriers
Speaker: Diane Petrie, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Room: Main Sanctuary
Description:
Christians are called to reflect Christ's love through compassionate and culturally sensitive service. This session explores cultural humility as a lifelong posture of learning and listening, rather than mastery. Inspired by Jesus' example of crossing boundaries, we'll discuss how humility fosters trust, honors dignity, and points others to the hope of the Gospel. Participants will leave equipped to serve diverse communities with grace and purpose.
Greater things you will do... in my Father's name
Speaker: Agneta Odera, MD, FCS-ECSA
Room: Main Sanctuary
Description:
We are created for a purpose—to bring hope and healing that lasts beyond our lifetime. Jesus modeled discipleship that transforms generations, equipping His followers and pointing them to the Father. This session explores how His example can inspire us to invest in and raise passionate healthcare providers who will carry the mission of love and salvation beyond the horizon.
Tension Management: Believing God in Every Step
Speaker: D. Ryan Hall, MD
Room: Main Sanctuary
Description:
How can you serve God while pursuing school, training, and a career in academics? Join Dr. Ryan Hall as he shares his inspiring journey from rural Oklahoma to an academic surgery career at the world's largest medical center. Discover the growing role of global health in academic medicine and explore how Christian mission hospitals can shape the future of healthcare training. Be encouraged to trust that God can use every step of your journey to make an impact far beyond your expectations.
Cultural Humility and the Gospel: Serving Across Borders and Barriers
Speaker: Diane Petrie, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Room: Main Sanctuary
Description:
Christians are called to reflect Christ's love through compassionate and culturally sensitive service. This session explores cultural humility as a lifelong posture of learning and listening, rather than mastery. Inspired by Jesus' example of crossing boundaries, we'll discuss how humility fosters trust, honors dignity, and points others to the hope of the Gospel. Participants will leave equipped to serve diverse communities with grace and purpose.
Greater things you will do... in my Father's name
Speaker: Agneta Odera, MD, FCS-ECSA
Room: Main Sanctuary
Description:
We are created for a purpose—to bring hope and healing that lasts beyond our lifetime. Jesus modeled discipleship that transforms generations, equipping His followers and pointing them to the Father. This session explores how His example can inspire us to invest in and raise passionate healthcare providers who will carry the mission of love and salvation beyond the horizon.
4:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall – 2nd Floor
Prayer Room – 2nd Floor
5:00 p.m.
Conference Ends
Frequently Asked Questions
Main conference registration includes access to the conference Exhibit Hall; access to all Plenary and Breakout speaker sessions; dessert on Friday evening; breakfast on Saturday morning; and a boxed lunch on Saturday afternoon.
Nnote: Up to 3 CME credits are included in your main conference registration and are guaranteed for physicians only. The Pre-Conference Workshop offers up to 7 CME credits for an additional fee. CLICK HERE to learn more about CME options.
EVENT REGISTRATION CANCELLATION/REFUND POLICY:
1. No refunds will be issued for cancelled registrations or no shows.
2. Please note that in the event of circumstances beyond its control, Lakewood Church reserves the right to cancel any event. In the event of a cancellation, event registrations will be refunded; however, Lakewood Church is not liable for any expenses (i.e. travel, etc.) incurred by participants as a result of such cancellation.
With the conference venue being at Lakewood Church, several area hotels provide a “Lakewood Church” discount. Click here for a full list of participating hotels and corresponding promo rate codes.
Friday, February 20, 2026
8:00 a.m.–10:30 p.m. CST*
Saturday, February 21, 2026
8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. CST
Click here for more detailed schedule.
*The Pre-Conference Workshop is held from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., and the main conference begins at 7:00 p.m.
The following “meals” are included with your registration:
- Dessert following Friday night's session;
- Breakfast sandwich and coffee on Saturday morning; and
- Boxed lunch on Saturday afternoon.
Click here for a list of several area restaurants, coffee bars and juice shops that are within walking distance or a short drive from the conference venue.
Location:
Lakewood Church
3700 Southwest Freeway
Houston, Texas 77027
Free covered parking is available starting at 6 p.m. on Friday and all day Saturday in the B1 and B2 underground parking garages. Please note that these garages are connected to the conference venue by underground/covered walkways. Click here for a map showing the locations of the B1 and B2 underground garages. (NOTE: Once you park, we suggest making a note or taking a picture of where you parked to assist you in finding your car after the conference.)
If you are attending a Pre-Conference Workshop, you will need to park in a different location on Friday only. Parking information will be sent to you by email.
Yes, we will once again host a Pre-Conference Workshop during the day on Friday, February 20, 2026, before the main conference begins. The Pre-Conference Workshop is NOT included in your main conference registration fee, but can be added to your registration at an additional cost.
Click here for more detailed information.
No, the Pre-Conference Workshop is only available for a separate registration fee.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is approximately 25 miles from the conference location.
William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is approximately 15 miles from the conference location.
Because Houston is a large metropolis with fluctuating heavy traffic, make sure to give yourself an ample amount of time to travel from the airport to the venue, and vice-versa. We recommend allotting yourself a minimum of one hour of transportation time each way.
No, not at this time.
No. M3 does not provide letters of invitation or sponsorship to international persons who wish to attend the M3 Conference. Once you register to attend M3, you will be sent an automated email letter that shows you have registered to attend the conference; some countries accept that letter in visa applications. However, before registering for M3, please contact the government agency where you are submitting your travel visa application to find out what documentation they will or will not accept with your application.
We recommend that you bring a pen and a notebook. Also, please keep in mind that it can get very cool in the auditorium, so we suggest bringing a light jacket or sweater. If you want to bring your own water bottle, we will have stations to refill it.
Casual; jeans are acceptable. Keep in mind that it can get very cool in the auditorium.
Please refer to the speaker section on this conference page to learn more about the dynamic panel of speakers who will be sharing at this year’s conference.
No. Childcare is not provided.
Yes, thanks to generous donors, scholarships to help attend the conference are available. Typically, scholarships only cover the conference registration fee and do not include travel or other expenses. Please email us for more information at info@m3missions.com.
Yes. To sponsor an individual and cover their expenses to attend the conference, please contact us.
A Church Partner is a Christian congregation of any denomination that stands behind M3 and wants to help promote the event to its congregants who may have an interest in medical missions or missions in general. Our desire is for M3 to be a cross-denominational, Kingdom event. There is no financial obligation to become a Church Partner, only the time invested in sharing about M3 with your congregation and a passion for missions. If you're interested in becoming a Church Partner to help us spread the word about M3, click here!
Exhibitors must meet certain criteria and must go through a pre-approval application process. Please note that priority is given to organizations that have a global health focus and offer volunteer and/or paid service opportunities. Exhibitor spaces are limited.
If you're interested in becoming an exhibitor, click here!
If you're interested in becoming a sponsor, click here for more information.
Main conference registration includes access to the conference Exhibit Hall; access to all Plenary and Breakout speaker sessions; dessert on Friday evening; breakfast on Saturday morning; and a boxed lunch on Saturday afternoon.
Nnote: Up to 3 CME credits are included in your main conference registration and are guaranteed for physicians only. The Pre-Conference Workshop offers up to 7 CME credits for an additional fee. CLICK HERE to learn more about CME options.
EVENT REGISTRATION CANCELLATION/REFUND POLICY:
1. No refunds will be issued for cancelled registrations or no shows.
2. Please note that in the event of circumstances beyond its control, Lakewood Church reserves the right to cancel any event. In the event of a cancellation, event registrations will be refunded; however, Lakewood Church is not liable for any expenses (i.e. travel, etc.) incurred by participants as a result of such cancellation.
With the conference venue being at Lakewood Church, several area hotels provide a “Lakewood Church” discount. Click here for a full list of participating hotels and corresponding promo rate codes.
Friday, February 20, 2026
8:00 a.m.–10:30 p.m. CST*
Saturday, February 21, 2026
8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. CST
Click here for more detailed schedule.
*The Pre-Conference Workshop is held from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., and the main conference begins at 7:00 p.m.
The following “meals” are included with your registration:
- Dessert following Friday night's session;
- Breakfast sandwich and coffee on Saturday morning; and
- Boxed lunch on Saturday afternoon.
Click here for a list of several area restaurants, coffee bars and juice shops that are within walking distance or a short drive from the conference venue.
Location:
Lakewood Church
3700 Southwest Freeway
Houston, Texas 77027
Free covered parking is available starting at 6 p.m. on Friday and all day Saturday in the B1 and B2 underground parking garages. Please note that these garages are connected to the conference venue by underground/covered walkways. Click here for a map showing the locations of the B1 and B2 underground garages. (NOTE: Once you park, we suggest making a note or taking a picture of where you parked to assist you in finding your car after the conference.)
If you are attending a Pre-Conference Workshop, you will need to park in a different location on Friday only. Parking information will be sent to you by email.
Yes, we will once again host a Pre-Conference Workshop during the day on Friday, February 20, 2026, before the main conference begins. The Pre-Conference Workshop is NOT included in your main conference registration fee, but can be added to your registration at an additional cost.
Click here for more detailed information.
No, the Pre-Conference Workshop is only available for a separate registration fee.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is approximately 25 miles from the conference location.
William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is approximately 15 miles from the conference location.
Because Houston is a large metropolis with fluctuating heavy traffic, make sure to give yourself an ample amount of time to travel from the airport to the venue, and vice-versa. We recommend allotting yourself a minimum of one hour of transportation time each way.
No, not at this time.
No. M3 does not provide letters of invitation or sponsorship to international persons who wish to attend the M3 Conference. Once you register to attend M3, you will be sent an automated email letter that shows you have registered to attend the conference; some countries accept that letter in visa applications. However, before registering for M3, please contact the government agency where you are submitting your travel visa application to find out what documentation they will or will not accept with your application.
We recommend that you bring a pen and a notebook. Also, please keep in mind that it can get very cool in the auditorium, so we suggest bringing a light jacket or sweater. If you want to bring your own water bottle, we will have stations to refill it.
Casual; jeans are acceptable. Keep in mind that it can get very cool in the auditorium.
Please refer to the speaker section on this conference page to learn more about the dynamic panel of speakers who will be sharing at this year’s conference.
No. Childcare is not provided.
Yes, thanks to generous donors, scholarships to help attend the conference are available. Typically, scholarships only cover the conference registration fee and do not include travel or other expenses. Please email us for more information at info@m3missions.com.
Yes. To sponsor an individual and cover their expenses to attend the conference, please contact us.
A Church Partner is a Christian congregation of any denomination that stands behind M3 and wants to help promote the event to its congregants who may have an interest in medical missions or missions in general. Our desire is for M3 to be a cross-denominational, Kingdom event. There is no financial obligation to become a Church Partner, only the time invested in sharing about M3 with your congregation and a passion for missions. If you're interested in becoming a Church Partner to help us spread the word about M3, click here!
Exhibitors must meet certain criteria and must go through a pre-approval application process. Please note that priority is given to organizations that have a global health focus and offer volunteer and/or paid service opportunities. Exhibitor spaces are limited.
If you're interested in becoming an exhibitor, click here!
If you're interested in becoming a sponsor, click here for more information.
Mobilizing Medicine & Missions
©2026
3700 SW Fwy • Houston, TX 77027 • 713-491-5108 • info@m3missions.com