Whether you're a new grandparent or have been one for years, one quickly comes to realize the role doesn't come with an instruction manual. That's where Gateway Church in Visalia is stepping in.

"Some grandparents are barely involved or not involved in the lives of their children at all," said Pastor Steve Hopper. "Then there are those who want to be very intentional about playing a major role in the lives of their grandchildren."

Gateway Church will be one of the host sites for a national teleconference known as the Legacy Grandparenting Summit on October 21-22 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

A panel of 21 speakers will include Larry Fowler, president of the Legacy Coalition; David Green, founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby; and Cavin Harper, founder of The Christian Grandparenting Network; and will include performances by ventriloquist and comedian Dave Pendleton, and musical guests Fernando Ortega and musical group The Issacs. The conference is designed to encourage and equip grandparents to be more intentional in their important roles.

Author and speaker Tim Kimmel said, "Being a grandparent is not just another season of your life; it is a sacred calling. You have the opportunity to influence another generation of children. You play an eternal role in their lives. It's not often we get such a significant second chance."

The cost to attend the two-day event, including all conference materials and refreshments, is $59. There will be a resource table featuring books and other tools to encourage grandparents, most created by the Legacy Coalition.

For more information or to register, visit http://www.LegacyCoalition.com/summit or call Gateway Church at (559) 732-4787.