Speaking

Looking for a speaker for your next event?

Hit me up with your details!

Go back

Your message has been sent

Warning
Warning
Warning

Warning.

A dynamic presentation of a deeply profound message can be life-changing. The same presentation with a good dose of humor? Even better!

Because my primary ministry is to the congregation I pastor, I accept outside speaking engagements only when they don’t conflict with ministry at my church. That said, I love to speak at retreats, women’s groups (including MOPS), college ministries, leadership events, churches, and team events, when my schedule permits.

I also love doing virtual events, and am happy to partner with you to dream up a creative presentation to encourage you and your people digitally if that’s a better fit for your team.

Topics include:

  • Weathering Change: peace amid life’s tough transitions
  • Looking Up: a guide to hope
  • Present: the gift of being all in, right where you are
  • Happy Now: lift your load with the power of playfulness
  • Uncluttered: less stuff, less stress, more soul

What People Are Saying…

Courtney Ellis Pastoring photo

“You were by far my favorite speaker of the whole year!” –Laguna Beach Presbyterian

“We had an AMAZING response to the interview with Courtney this morning…[our] phone bank lit up!” –Dee Marie, Moody Radio Northwest

“We had such a positive response from your presentation!” –East Whittier Presbyterian

“You had such energy, humor, and thoughtful ideas. One of the best retreats ever!” — First Presbyterian, Fullerton

Screen Shot 2022-06-17 at 9.22.17 AM

“Your talk was so encouraging and I’ve gotten so much positive feedback from your visit. Thank you again.”   –Rose Drive Friends Church, Yorba Linda

“You were the best last year! We’re so glad you’re back!” –Sunridge Community church, Temecula

Recent & Upcoming Events:

2026

May 8-12 – Lakeside Chataqua – Birding’s Biggest Week, Lakeside, OH

April 16-18 – Festival of Faith and Writing, Calvin University, Grand Rapids, MI

March 12 – Presbyterian Church of the Master – MomCo

January 23-25 – Point Loma Presbyterian Women’s Retreat, San Diego

2025

September 18 – Presbyterian Church of the Master – MomCo

August 17 – San Clemente Presbyterian Church – Guest Preacher

2024

April 11 & 12 – Calvin’s Festival of Faith & Writing – Lunch Circle – “Memoir with Humor, Grace, and Soul” (Registration open here.)

Courtney Ellis Barnes and Noble pic

Speaking Examples


“Unshakeable” – Presbyterian Church of the Master, Mission Viejo, CA

“Don’t Settle for Less” – San Clemente Presbyterian Church, San Clemente, CA

“The Partnership of the Gospel” – Presbyterian Church of the Master, Mission Viejo, CA (livestream)

“The Way, the Truth, the Life” – Presbyterian Church of the Master, Mission Viejo, CA

“Be Still, Together” – First Presbyterian Church, Fullerton CA (audio only)