We wanted to take a minute—just as two women who care deeply about you and this movement—to share the “why” behind the direction we’re taking with this year’s Modern Homesteading Conference.

Every single year, we are humbled and blown away by the hunger for real skills, real food, and real community. More and more folks are waking up to the reality that what the modern world offers—industrial food, big pharma, convenience at any cost—hasn’t led us to health or wholeness. So many in our community are here not just to “pick up a new skill,” but because they’ve experienced the consequences of broken systems. For over half the people we meet, homesteading isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifeline. It’s hope after hurt. It’s healing after being failed by modern solutions.

That’s why what we’re building together—this gathering, this community—matters so much. In a world that’s all algorithms, endless scrolling, and easy experts, discernment is more important than ever. That’s why in-person connection is non-negotiable. You can’t get this kind of fellowship or wisdom from a YouTube short or a flashy Instagram reel. What happens when we break bread, share a meal, and look each other in the eye—it’s powerful. It’s real. And we need more of it.

But we’ve also realized: as important as those practical skills are (herbal medicine, sourdough, livestock, all of it), at the end of the day, none of it lasts forever. 1 Timothy 6:7 reminds us, “For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” We all want to leave a legacy—but if we miss the eternal piece, we’ve missed the most important thing.

That’s why, after a lot of prayer and deep conversation, we’re adding something new this year. For the first time, every ticket includes a full Sunday morning church service, led by none other than Joel Salatin. If you know Joel, you know he doesn’t do anything halfway—and neither do we. This won’t be just another event on the schedule. It’s a chance to worship, to pray, and to root ourselves in what truly matters—together, before heading back home.

If you’re here just for the skills, the community, or the knowledge, we’re so glad. You’ll get all of that in abundance. But if you’re also hungry for deeper meaning—for connection that goes beyond the farm and points to eternity—please join us for this special service. It’s included with your ticket, and you are more than welcome.

We’d also ask: Would you join us in prayer for this conference? Pray for God’s wisdom, guidance, and protection over every detail, every person, and every moment. Many of you already do, and we are so grateful.

We are honored and humbled to steward this movement with you. Our greatest hope is that you’ll not only find the practical skills and community you need, but that you’ll leave with a sense of true hope—hope that reaches beyond this world.

With deep gratitude,
Melissa K. Norris & Katie Millhorn
Co-founders, Modern Homesteading Conference

P.S. If you haven’t grabbed your ticket yet, please don’t wait. You'll find our Black Friday ticket prices here ​

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