JACKSON, Tenn. — July 29, 2025 — Union University’s School of Theology and Missions and the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board will host the fourth annual EQUIP Youth Apologetics Conference Sept. 6 in Union’s Carl Grant Events Center.
With key speakers trained in theology, philosophy, apologetics and youth ministry, the EQUIP Youth Apologetics Conference is intended to help students think more carefully about the Christian faith, to strengthen their own faith and to share that faith with others.
Gregory Poore, Union’s associate professor of philosophy, apologetics and ethics, said the conference will help teenagers address their doubts and questions, consider the Bible’s truth claims and witness to biblical truth with faithfulness and humility.
“Growing up involves taking responsibility for what you believe, especially about God,” Poore said. “This task is particularly pressing in a culture which challenges Christian beliefs and values at every level. If youth are to stand firm and faithfully bear witness to the truth of their faith, they must be equipped.”
Speakers include Joshua Chatraw, the Beeson Divinity School Billy Graham Chair for Evangelism and Cultural Engagement at Samford University; Jay Barbier, Harvest Field 3 team leader with the TBMB; Justin Barnard, professor of philosophy at Union; and Ryan Keaton, the Strengthening Evangelistic Disciples team leader at the TBMB.
Cost is $25 per student, which includes lunch and a T-shirt, and $15 for chaperones. The deadline to register is Aug. 30. For more information or to register, visit uu.edu/events/equip/2025.