The Next Big Idea 2009

Kay Warren, in 2002 became, as she says, "seriously disturbed" by the suffering of the millions affected by HIV/AIDS. Recognized globally as "a voice for suffering individuals," now Kay is challenging the worldwide church to take on not just AIDS, but the global giants of spiritual darkness, lack of servant leaders, poverty, disease and ignorance through the P.E.A.C.E. Plan. She and husband, Rick, began Saddleback Church in 1980 in their condo living room.

Lynne Hybels, Advocate for Global Engagement, Willow Creek Community Church, partners with under-resourced communities in Latin America and Africa. Lynne and her husband, Bill Hybels, started Willow Creek in 1975.

Rick Rusaw has been senior minister of LifeBridge Christian Church in Longmont, CO since 1991. During that time, the church has grown from 700 to 3,300, has developed a multi-site ministry and has engaged more than 1,000 people in community service by partnering with public schools, non-profits, city, county and state agencies.

Michael Stroope is Associate Professor of Christian Missions and the M.C. Shook Chair of Missions at George W. Truett Theological Seminary. He has 20 years of experience as a field missionary and administrator with the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention.

Eric Swanson works with Leadership Network as Leadership Community Director for Externally Focused Churches working with dozens of externally focused churches around North America.