Blue Ocean is a transformative one-year learning experience. You’ll be part of a cohort that journeys together throughout the year, exploring what it means to join God on mission, be formed into the character of Christ, and dwell in your neighborhood – sharing and living out the Gospel.
Registration for the 2025/26 cohort of Blue Ocean is now open!
Sign up for the 2025/26 cohort
Format
This program includes three in-person learning modules, each held in a different location. Participants come from across North America, each serving in leadership roles at NAB churches of varying sizes and ministry styles.
Our modules are thoughtfully designed to integrate teaching, conversation, hands-on activities, shared experiences, and meals, creating a holistic and immersive experience.
MODULE 1 – October 21–24, 2025 (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Made in the image of a missional God
This opening module lays the foundation for the year by exploring the essential question: Who is God, and who are we in relation to him? Participants will be introduced to a renewed theological vision that frames mission not merely as an activity of the Church, but as central to the very nature of God. As a loving Creator, God is actively at work in the world and invites his people to participate in his redemptive mission.
Key Learning Objectives:
- Theology: God is One – loving, creating, and sending God
- Missiology: What is God doing in the world?
- Ecclesiology: How is the Church invited to participate?
Participants will gain an understanding of the relationship between theology, mission, and the church and reflect on their identity and calling in light of God’s mission.
MODULE 2 – February 1–4, 2026 (TBD)
Formed in the Image of the Son
This module builds on the foundation of Module 1 and explores what it means to bear witness to the reality of the risen Christ in our lives and leadership. Rooted in the call to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength—and to love our neighbors as ourselves—we will explore the deeper implications of being formed into Christ’s image. This transformation is not limited to personal salvation; it is part of God’s redemptive mission to make all things new.
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understanding the Way of Jesus as bearing witness to the Father and the movement from believing to being sent out.
- Recognizing our shadow sides in the context of leadership and discipleship.
- Developing personal and corporate spiritual practices that cultivate a vibrant inner life and Christlike formation.
MODULE 3 – May 5–8, 2026 (Medina, Ohio)
Joining Christ on Mission in Our Neighborhoods
In this module, we will explore the calling of the church to be a faithful witness to the reality of Jesus—together. It focuses on the church as an incarnational presence in our neighborhoods, living life together in intentional community, and adopting a posture of being with others, not simply doing for them. Participants will engage both theologically and practically with missional living.
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand the church’s mission as participation in the incarnational life of Christ.
- Reflect on what it means to live life together as a community of faith.
- Engaging in the communal practices of dwelling, discerning and exploring next steps for tangible next steps for living out this mission in their own neighborhoods.
Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your faith, enrich your understanding of theology and culture, and build meaningful, lifelong friendships!
For more information (including cost, accommodation, and travel arrangements), please contact Deb Judas.
