Adventist Christian Fellowship Institute-Southern Union is, first and foremost, a training event designed to disciple and inspire students, as well as help them build skills and understanding in the inner workings of being on a leadership team of an ACF Chapter. It is also a great opportunity to meet other ACF Chapter members from around the Southern Union.

There will be amazing General Sessions, as well as very practical breakouts on all things ACF.

Featuring

Taurus Montgomery

AS A FORMER TWO-SPORT ATHLETE, Taurus was trapped in a lifestyle of crime, fast money, and drug abuse from the age of 12 to 19. This led to low-academic performance, wasted athletic opportunities, and poor decision-making. His life took a positive turn after one tragic night helped him discover his purpose. Taurus entered college on academic probation with a 1.9 GPA. But graduated with a 3.5! He has since, earned his master’s degree, and is currently a doctoral student at Duke University. Today Taurus passionately shares his inspiring story with athletes, coaches, and organizations that want to live, work, and play fired up!

Voted Southwest Michigan 40 Under 40

#1 Amazon Bestselling Author 4 Published Books

Traveled Over 90,000 Miles Worldwide

26,000 Hours Collegiate Community Service

Raised Over $2 Million Dollars for Charity

Senior Pastor 10+ Years

12 Years Happily Married

Proud Father Of Three

Certified Speaker & Execution Coach by Eric Thomas & Associates

Accommodations and Dining

Dogwood Hall/Rocky Top Dining Hall

$100/student

(Parking and linen packs included)

Find out how to raise money for travel and other fees at Be the Arc!

Schedule

FAQ

What is Southern Union ACF Institute?

Southern Union ACF (Adventist Christian Fellowship) Institute is, first and foremost, a training event designed to disciple and inspire students, as well as help them build skills and understanding in the inner workings of being on a leadership team of an ACF Chapter. It is also a great opportunity to meet other ACF Chapter members from around the Southern Union.

There will be amazing General Sessions by Guest Speaker: Taurus Montgomery, as well as very practical breakouts on Discipleship, Mental Health, Apologetics, Outreach and Relationships presented by ACF Ministry Leaders from all over the Southern Union.

Who is this event for? Who should attend?

All ACF student-leaders, campus chaplains and pastors, conference and union youth & young adult ministries directors, and any leaders desiring to learn about ministry with and for college students on public campuses

What are the benefits of attending?

This ACF Institute is an event that will bring together leaders from all over the Southern Union. You will be able to share experiences or ask questions of other students who are building their own chapter. Not only that, but you will have the opportunity to attend seminars that will give you information to start or continue to build your chapter.

When is the ACF Institute and where will the Institute be held??

July 11-14, 2024 on the campus of University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Check in will be at Dogwood Hall, 2113 Andy Holt Ave, Knoxville, TN 37996

How much is a ticket to attend?

$100 includes all meals, lodging, materials and one awesome experience!

What if I can’t afford it?

Talk to your conference Youth/Young Adult Director. Many are willing to help sponsor this event for their students. Also, if you need help with travel, there is a foundation that is often willing to help. Check http://bethearc.com. and click the Apply for Funding button.

What type of lodging is included?

Units with 2 super-single beds, private washroom, AC Mini-Fridge, WiFi, bed linens and towels.

Hotel lodging is on your own. There are many hotels around the university campus.

Parking is included.

What do I need to bring for dormitory lodging?

Bring your own toiletries. Linens will be provided (sheets, blanket, pillow).

What is the roommate situation? Can we pick our roommate?

You can specify your roommate on your registration form.

What meals are included?

All meals Thursday evening through Sunday morning will be provided at the cafeteria using a debit card and/or wrist band system which will be provided at check-in. The registration fee covers your meal card, so you won’t need to pay for any food bought on-campus. Any food purchased off-campus will not be covered or subsidized.

Are there funds available to pay for the cost of travel?

Students can go to Be the Arc and apply for funds to cover the cost of attendance. Click the apply tab and fill out the information.

ARC is a US-based foundation for ministry on public university campuses, and can only apply funding for students studying in the United States.

When can we arrive at the university?

Anytime after 3:00 PM on Thursday, July 11. Registration officially begins at 4:30 pm where you will pick up your meal tickets and dorm room keys.

What is the closest airport to fly into?

Knoxville, TN airport code (TYS) is only a 15 drive from the campus. Chattanooga (CHA) is an hour and a half and Nashville,(BNA) is 3.5-4 hours.

Is there transportation available from the airport?

Yes…if you indicate that you need a pickup from the Knoxville airport on your registration form. Please let us know Time, Airlines and flight number and we will arrange to have someone pick you up.

If you fly into Chattanooga or Nashville, you will need to also plan on finding a ride, rental car or whatever, from there. No pickup services will be provided from those airports.

What is the maximum in-person attendance?

150

Will there be a zoom option or virtual option?

No. We will not be providing a zoom option for these meetings. Sorry. So plan on coming in person and you will not be disappointed.

I am a Conference ACF Director? Can I pay for some people to go to ACF Institute? If so, where do I send the money?

Yes. Please contact Maria Newlove at the Southern Union Conference office to make arrangements. Email: mnewlove@southernunion.com

What is the weather like in Knoxville in July?

HOT and humid, usually. Sometimes Rainy. Check your weather app before leaving so you know how to pack.

I see on the schedule that Advent House tours are available on Friday afternoon. What is Advent House?

Advent House is an on-campus ministry/residential house operated by the Georgia-Cumberland Conference since the 1980’s. Adventist students may apply and be accepted into residency in the house that serves not only as a residence, but an Adventist Student Center and hub for Adventist Christian Fellowship on the campus of UTK. It will be a short 5 minute walk from both Dogwood Hall, as well as Rocky Top Dining Hall. For more info check out their website: https://www.adventhouse.org/

What is the schedule?

Thursday

4:30p | Registration

6:00p | Supper - Cafeteria

8:00p | General Session 1

Introduce Journey Lessons- Cris Cazarine Dutra and Marcelo Mansur

10:00p | Refreshments and Hangout

11:00p | To Rest

Friday

8:30a | Breakfast

9:00a | Journey Devotional lesson 1- Cris Cazarine Dutra and Marcelo Mansur

10:00a | ACF- How to Build Your Chapter Strong- Don Keele