Watermark Community Church - Young Church Leaders Cohort

OCTOBER 27-28, 2026
MARCH 23-24, 2027
JUNE 14-18, 2027

The Young Church Leaders Cohort is a space for men aged 40 and younger who are, or are preparing to be, lead pastors, church planters, or key ministry leaders. Led by senior Watermark staff, this cohort is designed to challenge your thinking, inspire new ideas, and connect you with peers who want to keep Christ at the center of their life and ministry.

In-Person Meetings

Three in-person meetings, two in Dallas, TX, and one in Colorado, with teaching sessions, small group discussions, and experiential learning.

Monthly Readings

Monthly reading assignments that will supplement our in person meetings and calls.

Coaching Calls

Personalized coaching calls between sessions to continue your development.

Areas of Focus

Topics include preaching, leadership, marriage, family, rhythms, team building, and creating organizational culture.

APPLICATIONS FOR THIS YEAR'S COHORT ARE CLOSED

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Spots are limited, so don’t wait! Applications close August 3.

Applicants will receive an acceptance decision by August 31, 2026.

Apply Now

What You'll Experience

Cohort meetings, led by Senior Watermark Staff, include:

Teaching Sessions: Gain insights from experienced leaders on crucial topics.
Small Group Discussions: Engage in meaningful conversations with peers.
Experiential Learning: Apply what you learn in practical settings.

A Leader's Preaching

Hone your preaching skills and learn how to effectively communicate God's word.

A Leader's Voice

Develop your unique voice and learn how to influence and inspire others.

A Leader's Marriage

Balance your personal life with your ministry to maintain a healthy family and marriage.

A Leader's Rhythms

Establish and maintain personal and spiritual rhythms to sustain your ministry.

Team Building

Learn strategies for building and leading effective, cohesive teams.

Creating Culture

Shape and nurture the culture within your organization to reflect your values and vision.

Leading Organizations

Develop the skills necessary to lead and manage your church or ministry effectively.

Personalized Coaching

Continue your development with tailored coaching calls between in-person meetings.

Cohort Hosts

Timothy (TA) Ateek

Elder, Lead Pastor

Blake Holmes

Elder, Campus Pastor

John McGee

Senior Director of Watermark Resources

Dave Bruskas

Executive Director of Discipleship

John Cox

Executive Pastor

Cohort Details

KEY DATES*

Required cohort meetings
October 27–28, 2026
March 23–24, 2027
Colorado Retreat - June 14-18, 2027

Optional add-ons in March
Pastor’s Wives Cohort – March 23–24, 2027
Marriage Enrichment Day – March 25, 2027

LOCATION

Watermark Community Church
7540 LBJ Fwy, Dallas, TX 75251

COST*

$1,200

Registration includes:

Dallas gatherings: content, coaching, meals, and activities
Colorado retreat: lodging, meals, and activities

*Travel is not included.
**Scholarships may be available based on need.

Applications For This Year's Cohort Are Closed

By submitting this form, you agree to allow us to contact you about the details of your form submission.

Now Accepting Applications

Spots are limited, so don’t wait! Registration closes August 3.