How Speakers Bureau Works
Introduction
This directory can be used by congregations to locate speakers from AMBS. Speakers are available to provide sermons, teach Sunday School classes, give presentations or resource discussions. This page contains detailed instructions on how to locate or invite a speaker for your event and describes financial expectations. While these pages have been designed with congregations in mind, conferences and larger groups are also welcome to use this service.
Locate a speaker
1. Think about the goals that you and your congregation have for your event. Is there a particular or general topic your congregation would like to learn more about? Is there a particular speaker you would like to hear? Do you want a resource for Sunday morning, for a retreat or for another type of event?
2. Plan to invite a speaker well in advance. The more time there is before an event, the more likely that a speaker will be able to participate. Plan on three to six months (but don't be afraid to ask even if your event is coming up in three months or less.)
3. Consider collaborating with neighboring congregations. By planning an event together, you can share costs. If you host separate events on adjacent days, you can share travel costs. (Financial expectations can be found at the bottom of this page.) Visit the Faculty on the Road page to see if a speaker is already scheduled to speak in your area. Invite this speaker to an event at your congregation and save on travel costs.
4. Search for a speaker by topic or by name. If you choose the Topics link on the left, you will find a page listing major categories and all specific themes or titles. If you do not find the topic you are looking for, visit the Speakers page. Through this page, you will be able to locate a speaker by general area of expertise. Do not hesitate to ask a speaker if they are willing to present on your topic.
5. Once you are on the page of an individual speaker, you will find biographical information and also may choose to download a promotional photo, view their curriculum vitae or learn what presentations they offer. Again, if you do not see the topic you are looking for, do not hesitate to ask a speaker if they might present on your topic. You will also find a speaker's contact information, which you will need to make an invitation.
To download a promotional photo, click the small photo you see; a larger photo will open in a new window. Click on this with the right mouse button, and choose "Save image as . . ."
6. If you need additional help to locate a speaker or if you have any questions, please e-mail churchleadership@ambs.edu or call 574-296-6269.
Invite a speaker
1. Look over the suggested reimbursement rates for speakers (below) and discern what is feasible for your congregation. Congregations are also responsible for travel costs. Consider reducing the cost of your event by collaborating with another congregation in your area (and so sharing all costs) or by inviting a speaker who will already be in your area (and so sharing travel costs). You can find this information by visiting the Faculty on the Road page.
| Presentation type | Suggested reimbursement |
| Sermon | $75 |
| Sunday School | $50 $75 for intergenerationalor larger groups |
| Other presentations/ discussions | $75 / hour |
These rates are designed for congregations, not for conferences or larger groups. Larger groups should arrange payments directly with the speaker.
2. Contact the speaker by e-mail or phone using the information found on their page. When you invite someone to speak, let them know the following information:
- Presentation topic
- Presentation format
- Presentation date(s)
- Whether you are collaborating with another congregation or hope to dovetail onto an existing event
- Your contact information
Please also discuss financial reimbursement. All financial obligations/understandings must be decided before the event. Payments will be made directly to the speaker.
3. Be aware that acceptance of an invitation is subject to availabilitly.
4. If you need additional help to locate a speaker or if you have any questions, please e-mail churchleadership@ambs.edu or call 574-296-6269.