Get away for a weekend of spiritual renewal, meaningful community, and thoughtful conversation about the intersection of faith and healthcare.

Through teaching, worship, personal reflection, small-group discussion, and time together at the Gulf Coast, we will explore how faith shapes our identity, integrity, relationships, and calling in medicine.

FEATURED SPEAKERS

Dr. Tom Edwards is the founder and director of Hope Health, an urban medical clinic and ministry that has served Fairfield, Alabama, for nearly 20 years. He has also served in medical missions in Côte d’Ivoire for more than a decade.

A graduate of the University of Miami School of Medicine, Dr. Edwards completed training in internal medicine at UAB and family medicine at Medical Center East in Birmingham. His life and work emphasize holistic patient care, discipleship, community outreach, and faithful service.

Rev. Dr. Michael Balboni is a pastor, theologian, and researcher whose work explores the intersection of Christian faith, spirituality, and medicine. He serves as a Research Affiliate with Harvard University's Human Flourishing Program and co-directs the Initiative on Health, Spirituality, and Religion. He has also served in congregational ministry and helped establish an intentional Christian community for healthcare students and professionals in Boston. 

A graduate of Boston University School of Theology, where he earned his Master of Divinity, Master of Theology, and Ph.D. in Practical Theology, Dr. Balboni completed postdoctoral training at Harvard Divinity School, the Harvard School of Public Health, and the University of Chicago. His work emphasizes the integration of Christian faith and medical practice, spiritual care for the sick and suffering, and equipping the church to faithfully minister to those facing serious illness.

Additional discussion leaders will also participate throughout the weekend.

DATE

January 15–17, 2027

Martin Luther King Jr. weekend

Check-in will be Friday from 5:00–7:30 p.m. The opening session will begin at 8:00 p.m.

The conference will conclude by approximately 11:15 a.m. Sunday.

WHO

Medical, allied health, and other healthcare students from regional universities and training programs are invited to attend.

Healthcare professionals, alumni, spouses, and families are also welcome.

COST (Based on shared room: bunks or kings)

Student registration: $85*

Healthcare professionals, alumni, and families: $125*/person or $450 for family room

*Prices reflect subsities

Registration includes:

Two nights of lodging

Saturday and Sunday breakfast

Saturday lunch

Conference programming

Speaker sessions

Worship and small-group activities

Financial assistance may be available for students who need additional help. Please contact CMMSA for more information.

Registration deadline: December 16, 2026

LOCATION

The Lodge at Gulf State Park 21196 East Beach Boulevard Gulf Shores, Alabama 36542

The Lodge is located inside Gulf State Park along Alabama’s Gulf Coast and offers comfortable hotel accommodations, beach access, trails, and several areas for recreation and gathering.

WHAT TO BRING

Bible

Pen and notebook

Comfortable, casual clothing

Jacket or layers for cool weather

Walking or outdoor clothes

Toiletries and personal items

Swimsuit, athletic clothes, or beach gear if desired

Hotel rooms include bedding, towels, a mini-refrigerator, coffee maker, iron, ironing board, and hair dryer.

WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS

Teaching from Dr. Tom Edwards on identity, integrity, and intentionality

Worship and guided personal reflection

Realistic healthcare case discussions

Small groups with students and healthcare professionals

Time for rest, recreation, study, and informal mentoring

Extended worship and a Saturday evening bonfire

Opportunities to connect with students from medical and allied health programs across the region

QUESTIONS?

Contact Christian Medical Ministry of South Alabama:

Email: office@cmmsa.org

Phone: (251) 517-0536

click here.