Get to Know Our Speakers for the 2026 One City Summit

Although they come from different backgrounds and serve in distinct contexts, Amy Sherman, Bishop LaFayette Scales, and Alan Platt share a common conviction: human flourishing is at the heart of God’s vision for our communities.

Each, in his or her own way, has devoted decades of leadership to exploring what it means for people, churches, and cities to thrive—not merely through strategy or structure, but through the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. Keep reading to learn more about our incredible One City Summit keynote speakers.

Introducing Dr. Amy Sherman

Dr. Amy Sherman is a leading authority on the concept of flourishing, and she has literally written the book on the subject. Her acclaimed work, Agents of Flourishing: Pursuing Shalom in Every Corner of Society, published in 2022, presents a compelling argument that Christians in any vocation can serve as agents of flourishing, contributing to the well-being of society in alignment with God’s intentions.

In addition to her groundbreaking book, Dr. Sherman is the author of six other influential books and over 100 articles and essays, many of which have been featured in respected publications such as Christianity Today and Books & Culture. As a prominent voice in the faith and work movement, she actively collaborates with Made to Flourish (MTF), a network dedicated to empowering pastors for the common good.

Dr. Sherman is not only a writer but also a passionate speaker. She frequently engages with pastors, marketplace leaders, and nonprofit organizations, providing training and insights that inspire and equip them to make meaningful impacts in their communities.

Currently, Dr. Sherman serves as the director of the Sagamore Institute’s Center on Faith in Communities (CFIC). In this role, she focuses on helping leaders strategically invest in their communities, fostering environments where flourishing can thrive.

To explore more about Dr. Amy Sherman and her impactful work, you can learn more here.

Introducing La Fayette Scales

Bishop La Fayette Scales is a respected pastor, civic leader, and bridge-builder in Columbus, Ohio. As the Founding Pastor of Rhema Christian Center and a long-standing voice for unity in the city, Bishop Scales has devoted his life to advancing spiritual renewal, strengthening families, and fostering collaboration across racial, denominational, and civic lines. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to seeing Columbus flourish through faith, service, and shared responsibility.

For decades, Bishop Scales has served not only as a shepherd to his congregation but also as a trusted advisor and partner to leaders throughout Central Ohio. He is widely recognized for his work in promoting racial reconciliation, supporting community development initiatives, and cultivating meaningful partnerships between churches, nonprofits, and public officials.

Through his steady and relational leadership, Bishop Scales has helped mobilize believers to engage issues such as education, economic opportunity, and neighborhood revitalization—always emphasizing that the Church has a vital role to play in the well-being of the city.

A gifted communicator and convener, Bishop Scales frequently speaks to pastors, ministry leaders, and civic stakeholders about collaborative leadership and the power of unity. He challenges leaders to move beyond silos and work together for the common good, modeling what it looks like to lead with conviction, humility, and love for neighbor. His voice carries both pastoral warmth and prophetic clarity, calling the Church to faithful presence in every sector of society.

Bishop Scales recently retired as Senior Pastor of Rhema Christian Center, where he oversaw a thriving congregation committed to worship, discipleship, and community impact. He now remains actively engaged in citywide initiatives that seek to advance justice, strengthen relationships, and promote a flourishing Columbus for all.

To learn more about Bishop La Fayette Scales and his ministry, click here.

Introducing Alan Platt

Alan Platt is the founding leader of Doxa Deo and the visionary behind City Changers, a global movement mobilizing believers to serve and transform their cities. A pastor, author, and apostolic leader, Alan is passionate about equipping the Church to move beyond the walls of the building and into every sphere of society—bringing hope, justice, and renewal to communities around the world.

Under Alan’s leadership, Doxa Deo has grown into a vibrant, multi-campus church network committed to discipling people who influence society for the Kingdom of God. Through City Changers, he has inspired thousands of leaders across continents to embrace a theology of the city—one that calls Christians to engage culture, serve their neighbors, and seek the flourishing of the places they call home. Alan is known for his ability to connect theological conviction with practical action. His teaching consistently challenges believers to see their everyday vocations as sacred callings and to take responsibility for the spiritual and social health of their cities.

A sought-after speaker and mentor, Alan regularly engages pastors, marketplace leaders, and civic influencers worldwide. He is deeply committed to building relational networks that foster unity, courage, and collaboration across denominations and sectors. Through gatherings, coaching environments, and global forums, he equips leaders to think missionally, act boldly, and cultivate cities marked by faith, compassion, and transformation.

Alan Platt continues to lead Doxa Deo while overseeing the global expansion of City Changers. His work centers on developing leaders, planting and strengthening churches, and catalyzing city-focused movements that demonstrate the Gospel in both word and deed.

To learn more about Alan and the vision of Doxa Deo and City Changers, check out this article.