Your closest relationships shape the way you lead.

For those preparing for a lifetime of ministry, cultivating a healthy relationship isn’t separate from your calling, it’s an important part of sustaining it. Love Before You Lead is a one-day conference from Biola University’s Center for Marriage and Relationships, in collaboration with Talbot School of Theology, created specifically for current and future ministry leaders who are dating, engaged or married.

Join Dr. Chris Grace, Alisa Grace and Willa Williams for a day of honest conversation, biblical wisdom, and research-informed tools designed to help you build a healthy relationship while navigating the unique demands of ministry.

Together, we’ll explore some of the relational issues that can have a lasting impact on both your relationship and your ministry, including:

• Healthy communication at home and in ministry
• Navigating conflict with grace
• Understanding how family-of-origin experiences shape our relationships
• Cultivating spiritual intimacy and abiding together in Christ
• Practical guidance for the unique seasons of dating, engagement and marriage
• Building rhythms that support healthy relationships and lasting ministry

The day will include teaching sessions, dedicated breakouts for dating, engaged and married couples, a panel discussion and Q&A, opportunities for reflection and connection, breakfast and lunch.

Whether you’re preparing to enter ministry or have been serving for years, Love Before You Lead is an invitation to invest in the relationships closest to you so that you can love well, serve faithfully and lead from a healthy foundation.

Who Should Attend
Current Talbot graduate students and Talbot alumni who are dating, engaged, or married and preparing for or currently serving in ministry.

Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
Time: 8:00 a.m.–3:10 p.m.
Location: Andrews Banquet Room
Cost: $40 per couple
Registration Deadline: Sunday, November 1, 2026

Breakfast and lunch are included with registration.

Cost and Admission

This is a paid event.