Aspire began in November 2018, born from a heartfelt conversation between founder Steve Stanley and two trusted ministry colleagues.

Steve had recently spoken with one of his mentors—an 82-year-old retired minister—who shared a simple but powerful encouragement:

“Don’t forget your fellow servants. Stay in touch. Support one another. Keep growing—together.”

That wisdom planted a seed.

Recognizing the deep need for connection and support among ministers stepping out of full-time vocational roles, the group began to envision a new kind of network—one rooted in relationship, resilience, and renewal.

They gathered a few colleagues for lunch, shared the vision, and dreamed together about creating a space where ministers and their spouses could:

• Rediscover purpose

• Share wisdom across generations

• Walk together into the next season of life and ministry

The First Gathering

In March 2019, the first official Aspire gathering took place at the Hope Center in Plano, Texas.

Twenty ministers attended—including one who was 94 years old. Four generations were represented in the room. Dr. Bernie Spooner served as the inaugural speaker. The energy was undeniable.

A Growing Movement

From that single event, Aspire grew—not just as a network for ministers, but as a movement that now includes churches, musicians, lay leaders, and faith communities.

Steve’s vision is clear: to connect believers across congregations, strengthening one another and expanding the ministry of reaching and teaching people in their walk and service to Christ.

Our Mission

Through the Aspire International Foundation, we carry this mission forward nationwide:

"Promoting the wellbeing of the minister, spouse, and church."

What Does Aspire Do?

At Aspire, our mission is simple yet powerful:
To promote the wellbeing of the minister, spouse, and church.

We do this by offering:

• Conferences that inspire and equip

• Luncheons that foster connection and encouragement

• Personal wellness experiences that support emotional and spiritual health

• Leadership development opportunities that empower lasting impact

Whether you're actively serving in ministry, nearing retirement, or walking through a transition, Aspire provides a space to grow, connect, and lead with purpose.

Aspire offers a holistic set of experiences designed to promote the wellbeing, growth, and leadership of ministers and their spouses—no matter their age or season of ministry.

1. Quarterly Luncheons

Held at various locations, these gatherings offer:

• Inspiration and fellowship

• Meaningful conversations with new and familiar colleagues

• Updates on upcoming events and speakers
  They’re a simple but powerful way to stay connected and encouraged.

2. CORE 7 Groups

CORE 7 (Colleagues of Religious Education) is for ministers 55+ from all roles and backgrounds in ministry.

These peer groups foster:

• Ongoing connection

• Shared wisdom

• Support in navigating transition seasons, especially post-vocational ministry

3. 3DExperience: Dare to Define Your Destiny

This signature leadership and life-design program helps participants live from their authentic, God-given design. It includes three tracks based on your stage of life or ministry:

Track 1: The Retirement Season
“Dare to Define Your Destiny – Living Your Authentic Design”
For those completing or who have completed a full-time ministry career.
Explore the six key transitions of retirement and rediscover purpose and identity beyond vocational roles.

Track 2: Leadership Track
“The Signature Soul-Print of Leadership”
For ministers, leadership teams, staff, and church planters of all ages.
Learn to lead from your unique, God-created design. As Gil Bailie reminds us:

“What the world needs is people who have come fully alive.”

Track 3: Small Groups & Individuals
Authenticity & Wholeness Journey
Discover and remove the roadblocks that keep you from living fully.
Recognize that your value isn’t what you bring to the table—but that you were brought to the table by a loving Creator.

Each 3DExperience track includes:

• Guided interaction with Aspire’s certified equine team

• Hands-on experiences led by trained life coaches and facilitators

Annual Fall Conference

The Chautauqua Experience
Held at Glorieta Conference Center in New Mexico, this multiday event brings together ministers, churches, musicians, and families for worship, growth, and renewal in a breathtaking setting.

Not at all.

While Aspire supports those transitioning out of full-time ministry, we serve ministers and church leaders in every season of life and leadership.

Through our 3DExperience, we offer a dynamic leadership track called:

The Signature Soul-Print of Leadership
For ministry staff, leadership teams, and church planters—regardless of age or stage.

This experience helps individuals and teams lead with clarity, authenticity, and purpose rooted in their God-given design.

Annual Chautauqua Fall Conference

Coming in 2026, Aspire will host the Chautauqua Experience at Glorieta Conference Center in New Mexico—a powerful, multi-day gathering of:

• Churches and church leaders

• Choirs and musicians

• Faith-based artists and speakers

• Life seminars and specialist-led sessions

It’s a time of worship, renewal, learning, and connecting across generations and denominations—open to all believers seeking to grow in their walk and service to Christ.

Absolutely.

Aspire is not about stepping away from ministry—it’s about stepping into what’s next.

We help you redeploy your gifts and leadership by connecting you with:

• Mentoring opportunities

• Church consulting roles

• Workshops and speaking engagements

You have a lifetime of experience to share, and Aspire creates pathways for you to continue strengthening churches and equipping leaders across the country.

Yes!

Aspire hosts events throughout the year designed to enrich your faith, strengthen your gifts, and connect you with other believers.

Here’s what’s coming up:

• Quarterly Luncheons
  Join us this September in the Dallas–Fort Worth area for inspiration, fellowship, and connection.
  Details available at here.

• Seasonal Gatherings & Seminars
  Designed for personal and spiritual growth, leadership development, and ministry encouragement.

• Annual Fall Conference
  October 1–5, 2026 at Glorieta Conference Center, New Mexico
  This national gathering includes worship, life seminars, music, and community for ministers, churches, and individuals.
  Register now