Courtesy of James Staddon

Over 1,600 attendees gathered for the ATI Regional Conference in Big Sandy, Texas, on April 27–30, 2010. The conference was held at the International ALERT Academy and focused on the theme of “The Amazing Way.”

Throughout the week, fathers gathered early in the morning for special teaching sessions with Bill Gothard and other speakers.
Courtesy of Robert Staddon
Courtesy of John McCloy

Many notable speakers shared at the conference, including Phil Downer, who presented a powerful session about discipleship.

Phil Downer's daughter, Anna, also shared how fathers and mothers can invest in their children's lives.
Courtesy of James Staddon
Courtesy of James Staddon

The Kelly family stands next to their new van, which was given to them by the Liu family who will be returning to China in August

The students attending the conference were able to participate in a variety of programs and activities suitable to their ages and interests.
Courtesy of Timothy Reckner
Courtesy of Timothy Reckner

The ALERT Cadet program offered activities for boys aged 8–15. Participants learned about developing a heart that is totally committed to Christ and enjoyed group activities including rappelling, canoeing, and more.

The Children’s Institute provided a great place for children aged 4–7 to learn important lessons through songs, stories, and crafts. Through team time and group assemblies, the children learned about building God’s truth into their lives and loving God with their whole heart.
Courtesy of John McCloy
Courtesy of Ivanna Robles

Girls aged 8–11 participated in the Pre-EXCEL program. This year’s lessons focused on the heart, and attendees considered who holds their heart.

The girls enjoyed the small group times as they made new friends and learned about bringing honor to God and to their fathers.
Courtesy of Ivanna Robles
Courtesy of Sara Quinnett

The COMMIT program challenged young ladies aged 12–15 to take their walk with God seriously and to love Him with their whole heart.

Participants enjoyed dynamic group sessions, focused small group discussions, and fun activities.
Courtesy of Sara Quinnett
Courtesy of Sara Quinnett

Students aged 12 and older attended special sessions that focused on key issues, such as life purpose, relationships, and reaching others for Christ. Speakers such as Bill Gothard, Doug Small, and Paul and Jenny Speed shared insights from their walks with God and challenged the students to live for Him with their whole heart.

The written testimony of Bill Gothard "The Amazing Way" was made available for the first time at the Big Sandy Conference!
Courtesy of James Staddon