The Finest Thought Leaders
Meet Gary Hays
Rev. Gary Hays is an international speaker, strategist, and founder of thinkSMALL Ministries, a global church-equipping movement that has led over 1.5 million people to Christ in 20 nations.
A former military intelligence officer in Vietnam and corporate leader turned missionary, Gary offers a unique blend of bold vision and practical, faith-based strategy.
As author of Fishing for the Future, he reveals how Jesus’ leadership methods can revitalize churches, develop future leaders, and ensure lasting growth. His teams partner with more than 3,500 churches.
Gary has spoken across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the U.S., inspiring pastors to reach the most spiritually open demographic—children. He and his wife Paula live in Phoenix, Arizona, where they continue directing thinkSMALL’s global work.
“It’s not enough to have a winning vision. You need a winning strategy.”
– Rev. Gary Hays
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About the Book: From Trials to Triumph
Fishing for the Future equips church leaders to grow their congregations, raise new leaders and secure the next generation for Christ. Blending Scripture with real-world strategy, Rev. Gary Hays reveals how Jesus’ overlooked methods—and modern examples from global leaders—can help churches grow, thrive, and multiply. With a focus on mobilizing youth and child evangelism, the book empowers leaders to cast their nets over the ‘right side of the boat’ to build younger churches that last.
Speaking Topics
- How to Overcome the 4 Trends that Threaten the Future of Your Church
- How to Achieve Sustainable Church Growth Through the Youngest Generations
- How to Grow Your Next Generation of Church Leaders
- Reversing the Exodus: Why Young People Leave the Church—and How to Keep Them!
Audience Takeaways
A practical blueprint to sustainably grow your church by reaching and discipling children and youth.
A customized plan to build youth teams that impact the community and raise up your next generation of church leaders.
Jesus’ little-known 4-step T.E.A.M.strategy to maximize any church team’s potential.
Fresh ways to meet your community’s unmet needs and watch your church grow in size and influence.
Get Gary's Book and Online Course
Hear What People Are Saying About Gary
"Not your typical How To Book! Fishing For the Future is packed with stories, Biblical references, biographies, and current data that combine to give you a fun yet educational ride! Most importantly, it provides the best formula to help ensure the future of your church!"
- Glenn Burris
President of the International Church of the
Foursquare Gospel (2010 – 2020)
"Church leaders, get ready for a transformative journey! Gary Hays offers a vision-driven roadmap to revitalize your ministry by empowering youth and children. This book is a must-read for securing your church’s future!"
- Dr. Dave Metsker,
Fuller Theological Seminary; Professor Life Pacific College (1993-2007)
"With the skill of a surgeon, Gary provides proven practical guidelines, not as theory, but from the experience of a successful practitioner!”
- Don Argue
Former President of the National Association of Evangelicals North Central University, and Northwest University
"Gary’s captivating storytelling, humor, and proven practical strategies kept me fully engaged. This book is a divine tool that will shape and impact generations to come! ”
- Michele Okimura,
Exec. Director, Releasing Generations, Author; Dancing with Father
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