A group of Alaska lawmakers will speak at an upcoming conference later this month that highlights the need for spiritual hope and practical planning for Alaskans who may have lost faith in government and politics.

“Hope Forward” will take place over two days – Sept. 30-Oct. 1 – at Bridge of Hope Apostolic Center in Chugiak (20640 Chapel Drive).

“Hope is a powerful agent residing within the spirit of believers,” a notice for the event states. “But our brand of hope is not an ethereal pie-in-the-sky kind of hope. It is the kind of hope that refuses to disappoint. It is not blind to the challenges around us, but has the wisdom to see the way of through all the mess. It gives us courage to rise above our own insecurities and continue to stand even when the naysayers get loud.”

Speakers include State Senator Shelley Hughes, State Rep. Sarah Vance, Mat-Su Mayor Edna DeVries and Brave Nation Founder Leigh Sloan.

Brave Nation is hosting the event. The organization was founded to bring about cultural reform in the spheres of family, government, entertainment, business, media, education and religion.

“So many of us have lost hope in government. That’s okay because our hope is not in government – it should always remain in God,” the event website states. “God is not aloof to our groanings concerning our government. He is active even in the mess. When we believe for him to do greater things in this realm, we will begin to see breakthrough.”

The two-day conference seeks to focus local activism and political conversations around core principles of faith, virtue and working collaboratively.

“During this weekend, we will discover our courage, begin to walk in greater levels of wisdom and strategy, learn how to tap into the power of our tribes, and understand our God-given responsibility and opportunity when it comes to our government,” the event website notes. “You’ll walk away with powerful tools, key connections, and practical action steps to make a difference right where you live!”

SCHEDULE

Friday (Sept. 30) Service: Awakening Hope (with Leigh Sloan) 7 – 9 pm (Free and Open to All)

Saturday (Oct. 1) Seminar: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A light breakfast will be served.

— Representative Sarah Vance – Cultivating Courage

— Senator Shelley Hughes – Nurturing Wisdom

— Mayor Edna DeVries – Activating Connection

Click here for tickets.

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