November 10-12, 2025
Highlands Fellowship
Abingdon, Virginia
PROGRAM GUIDE
BGAV’s Impact Disaster Response is developing an initiative to provide tiny homes to families whose homes are damaged beyond repair during a disaster. We need your help to ensure we’re ready when the next disaster strikes!
We plan to have several builds in Summer 2026 in partnership with local churches who will host the build at their site. There’s also a lot of potential for future development beyond disaster situations – including affordable housing. Visit our website to learn more and register your interest.
Camp Piankatank is developing dynamic disciples for Christ, through relationships and adventures. Located in Hartfield, VA.
Summer Camp
Six sessions of summer camp for ages 6-17. Day and overnight options. Church groups and individual campers welcome! Check out our parent/child half week camps.
Facilitate your program at our beautiful facility. Capacity of 180, with full food services, ropes course, canoeing, archery, and more. Retreat Center
www.camppiankatank.com
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
GOLD-LEVEL SPONSORS
Appalachian School of Theology/ Southwest Virginia Partnership
Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty
Baptist World Alliance
Baylor University’s Truett Seminary
EverBless
International Mission Board
Israel Ministry of Tourism
Leland Seminary
Stoneford
SILVER-LEVEL SPONSORS
Ascent/Restore Hope
Baptist Extension Board/ Capital Stewardship Services
Bland Ministry Center
CMJ USA
Eagle Eyrie Conference Center
GC2 Press
Lee Hartman & Sons
MERATH Lebanon
Virginia Baptist Historical Society
BRONZE-LEVEL SPONSORS
Bluefield University
Campbell University Divinity School
Camp Piankatank
CrossRoads Camp & Conference Center
GraceInside
GuideStone
HerMission
HopeTree Family Services
McAfee School of Theology, Mercer University
Virginia Baptist Women in Ministry
Virginia Baptists Committed
OTHER SPONSORS
Center for Lifelong Learning at Columbia Seminary
EVENT MAP HIGHLANDS FELLOWSHIP
FARNSWORTHRD
WATAUGA
MAIN BUILDING MAP
FIRST FLOOR
SECOND FLOOR
MINISTRY FAIR
the Financial Future of Your Ministry
Retirement
Retirement Plans: Design and manage competitive, modern employee benefits packages. Wealth & Tax Planning: Expert services for clergy and staff, including specialized tax preparation.
SCHEDULE
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10
Registration Open 1:00–5:30 p.m.
Ministry Fair Open 1:00–5:30 p.m.
1:30 p.m. Virginia Baptist Pastor ’s Conference Countr y Tent
1:30 p.m. Hands-on Mission Project: Tiny Home Build Gravel Lot (1:30–5:00 p.m.; separate registration required)
3:30 p.m. Learning Labs #1 (see pages 34–36)
5:00 p.m. BGAV Tailgate and Dinner (food trucks on site) Firepit Area
Pickin’ Circle (bring your own instrument) Firepit Area
6: 00 p.m. Uptick Alumni Dessert Social Youth Room
7:00 p.m. Main Session #1 Worship Center
MAIN SESSION #1: “Mission Here: Pressing Toward the Church” Highlands Fellowship Worship Center
Music: Highlands Fellowship Praise Band
7:00 p.m. Special Music Highlands Fellowship Praise Band
Welcome Shelton Miles
Theme Interpretation Wayne Faison
Interpretative Sketch Charles Reese and Rebecca McCoy-Reese
Special Music Highlands Fellowship Praise Band
Message: Tim Brown
“Mission Here: Pressing Toward the Church”
Special Music Highlands Fellowship Praise Band
Prayer Jordan Secrist
Voting Introduc tion Shelton Miles
Closing Shelton Miles
NOTE: items in BLUE will be livestreamed. Access livestream coverage through the Whova app or at meeting.bgav.org.
TUESDAY MORNING, NOVEMBER 11
Registration Open 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Ministry Fair Open 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
MAIN SESSION #2:
“Mission There: Pressing Toward the Community”
Highlands Fellowship Worship Center
Presiding: Shelton Miles
Music: Chosen Road
9:00 a.m.
Welcome and Call to Order Shelton Miles
Special Music Chosen Road
Interpretative Sketch Charles Reese and Rebecca McCoy-Reese
Message: Cindy Wiles
“Mission There: Pressing Toward the Community”
Special Music Chosen Road
Food to Faith Interview Shelton Miles
Prayer Rose Mar y Stewart
Break
Business Session
• Call to Order Shelton Miles
• Repor t of the Program Committee Alan Miller
• Repor t of the Clerk Tim Madison
• Repor t of the Committee Mark Olson on Boards and Committees
• Nominations to the Committee Shelton Miles on Boards and Committees
• Repor t of the Treasurer David Washburn
• Repor t of the Virginia Baptist Executive Board Allen Jessee
• Resolutions of Appreciation Wayne Faison
• Repor t of the Executive Director Wayne Faison
• 2026 Budget Presentation David Washburn
• Miscellaneous Business
Prayer Jim Bunce
TUESDAY AFTERNOON, NOVEMBER 11
12:00 p.m. Lunch (off site)
1:00 p.m. Learning Labs #2 (see pages 37–39)
1:30 p.m. Hands-on Mission Project: Tiny Home Build Gravel Lot (1:30–5:00 p.m.; separate registration required)
2:30 p.m. Break
3: 00 p.m. Learning Labs #3 (see pages 40–41)
4:30 p.m. Insight Sessions (see pages 42–43)
5:15 p.m. Dinner (off site)
7: 00 p.m. Main Session #3 Worship Center
MAIN SESSION #3:
“Mission Everywhere: Pressing Toward the World” Highlands Fellowship Worship Center
Music: Chosen Road
7:00 p.m. Welcome Shelton Miles
Special Music Chosen Road
Interpretative Sketch Charles Reese and Rebecca McCoy-Reese
Message: Karl Johnson
“Mission Every where: Pressing Toward the World”
Giving Moment: Tiny Home Initiative
Special Music
Chosen Road
Prayer Rachel Pierce
NOTE: items in BLUE will be livestreamed. Access livestream coverage through the Whova app or at meeting.bgav.org.
WEDNESDAY MORNING, NOVEMBER 12
Registration Open 8:30–10:00 a.m.
Ministry Fair Open 8:30–10:00 a.m.
MAIN SESSION #4: “Mission Forward: The High Calling of Christ” Highlands Fellowship Worship Center
Presiding: Shelton Miles
Music: Chosen Road
9:00 a.m. Welcome and Call to Order Shelton Miles
Opening Prayer Angie Frame
Business Session
• 2026 Budget Approval David Washburn
• Repor t of the Resolutions Committee Shelton Miles
• Recognition of Retiring
Mission Council Members Shelton Miles
• Election of Mission Council Nominees Shelton Miles
• Recognition of Retiring Wayne Faison Executive Board Members
• Election of Executive Board Nominees Wayne Jenkins
• Election of Executive Board Chair Wayne Jenkins
• Recognition of Standing Committee Chairs Shelton Miles
• Election of BGAV President
• Election of BGAV First Vice President
• Election of BGAV Second Vice President
• Election of BGAV Clerk
• Recognition, Presentation, Wayne Faison and Prayer for Leadership
Memorial Service
• Introductor y Remarks Holly Nichols
• Scripture Reading Mike Hatfield
• Memorial Video
• Prayer Scott Curtis
Intermission
Special Music Chosen Road
Interpretative Sketch Charles Reese and Rebecca McCoy-Reese
Message: “Mission Forward: Wayne Faison
Our High Calling in Christ Jesus”
Invitation to BGAV 2026 Annual Meeting Alan Miller
Special Music Chosen Road
Benediction BGAV President Elect
Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty (BJC) works at the highest levels of government and in local communities across the country to defend faith freedom for
engage a range of public advocacy tools, such as filing briefs at the
Supreme Court and forming coalitions to pass legislation.
The BJC Center for Faith, Justice and Reconciliation offers a variety of educational programs for students, congregations, community
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GUEST SPEAKERS
TIM BROWN
LEAD PASTOR, HIGHLANDS FELLOWSHIP, ABINGDON, VA
Tim Brown became the Lead Pastor of Highlands Fellowship in 2024. Prior to joining the staff family at Highlands, Tim planted Gracewood Community Church in Lebanon, Virginia, in 2015 and served as the lead pastor. Tim married his high school sweetheart, Maegan, in 2008 and they have four wonderful children: Kellsie, Charlie, Andie, and Evie. Tim is passionate about the local and global church, building relationships with others, and living everyday life as a devoted follower of Jesus.
KARL JOHNSON
CHAIR, BAPTIST
PASTOR,
WORLD ALLIANCE
PHILLIPPO BAPTIST CHURCH, SPANISH TOWN, JAMAICA FORMER GENERAL SECRETARY, JAMAICA BAPTIST UNION
Rev. Karl B. Johnson currently serves as Chair of the Baptist World Alliance (BWA), a role he assumed in July 2025, making history as the first Caribbean national ever to hold this distinguished global office.
Rev. Johnson has been an accredited minister of the Jamaica Baptist Union (JBU) since 1992. Ordained to the Christian Ministry in September 1992, Rev. Johnson currently serves as pastor of the historic Phillippo Baptist Church in Spanish Town, Jamaica, having demitted office in 2021 as the General Secretary of the JBU, a position he held for 20 years.
Rev. Johnson is a graduate of the United Theological College of the West Indies (UTCWI) and is a much sought after preacher/teacher nationally and internationally. Rev. Johnson is known as a public theologian who is a committed ecumenist, passionate nationalist and regionalist, and whose views on topical issues are sought regularly.
His service has extended beyond the church and religious circles in Jamaica and impacted the wider Caribbean and world through his leadership in many spheres and international organizations, including the World Council of Churches (WCC) where he served on its governing bodies up to 2021, and the Baptist World Alliance (BWA) where he currently serves as First Vice President.
He is married to Yvette and they have three adult sons: Nicholas, Joel, and Nathan.
WAYNE FAISON
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, BGAV
SENIOR PASTOR, EAST END BAPTIST CHURCH, SUFFOLK, VA
Rev. Dr. Wayne Faison is the executive director of the Baptist General Association of Virginia. He was elected to the position by the messengers to the 199th BGAV Annual Meeting in November 2022. Dr. Faison previously had served on the staff for 21 years, contributing especially in the areas of African-American church development, evangelism, and church planting. At the time of his election as executive director, he was the leader of the Growth/ Venture Team as well as the national coordinating officer for the BGAV’s Ascent Team.
A native of Florida, Dr. Faison and his wife, Carmen, were easily and enthusiastically welcomed into the life and work of Virginia Baptists and have found a home among them. He serves as senior pastor of the East End Baptist Church in Suffolk. Prior to going into the Gospel ministry, he worked in the banking field. He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree as well as a Master of Divinity degree from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He also earned a “miniMBA” from the University of Richmond.
CINDY WILES
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, RESTORE HOPE
Cindy Wiles’ life was framed by her call to missional service at the age of 11 when she publicly committed herself to mission service before her local congregation. With that calling born in the context of the local church and a commitment to the New Testament teachings regarding Gospel expansion, Cindy has always viewed the church as Christ’s chosen base for the sending of witnesses to the lost world. After completing her undergraduate degree at the University of AlabamaBirmingham, Cindy married Dr. Dennis Wiles and attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Cindy and Dennis began what is now a 44-year ministry of pastoral and missional church leadership. The Wileses currently serve at First Baptist Church of Arlington, Texas, where Dennis has served as senior pastor for 24 years and Cindy has served in global missions leadership. Additionally, Cindy serves as the Executive Director of Restore Hope, a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation that serves a network of churches sending people cross-culturally to live and serve in long-term missionary capacities. Through Restore Hope’s services and training, 84 churches have placed long-term workers in 24 nations.
Cindy is the mother of two adult children, Hannah and Josiah. She is a grandmother of five beautiful grandchildren.
FOR CLERGY WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED A FORCED TERMINATION FROM A CONGREGATION OR MINISTRY SETTING. SPOUSES ARE ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND.
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DONOR-ADVISED FUNDS MONEY MANAGEMENT ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS CHARITABLE PLANNED GIVING STEWARDSHIP RESOURCES
Tiny Homes, Big Impact Volunteers to Build at Annual Meeting
by BGAV Staff
This year, BGAV’s Annual Meeting won’t only be about worship and workshops — it will also be about hammer swings, sawdust, and tangible hope. As part of the Mission Forward theme, participants are invited to roll up their sleeves and help construct a tiny home on site that will soon shelter a family impacted by disaster.
For years, Impact Disaster Response has deployed volunteers across the country to help families rebuild after floods, hurricanes, and storms. But sometimes, homes are beyond repair. “In today’s market, we might spend $35–45,000 to renovate a flooded home,” said Butch Meredith, BGAV’s construction coordinator for Impact Missions, “With tiny homes, we can deliver a brandnew, safe, and accessible house for less money — and get families home more quickly.”
That urgency is more than theoretical. After devastating flooding in Damascus, volunteers met an 86-year-old man who had lost his lifelong home. Instead
of asking for help for himself, he urged them to care for his neighbors first. Stories like his pushed leaders to act. “God makes things happen in his time,” reflected Meredith. “We’d talked about this idea for a while, but that call pushed us over the hump and into reality.”
Working with a local storagebuilding manufacturer and county inspectors, Impact developed a model for a 14’ x 32’ tiny home with a bedroom, great room/kitchen, and fully accessible bathroom. The manufacturer delivers the shell, and volunteers finish the interior.
The first prototype will be set up in Damascus in October. The second, dubbed Tiny 2, will be under construction at the annual meeting in Abingdon.
Meredith said the strategy is a natural fit for BGAV’s skilled volunteer base: “It’s very similar to flood repair — gutting houses, drying them out, and moving into remodeling mode. With tiny (continued on page 2)
Baptist General Association of Virginia (BGAV) is turning the page with the launch of Faith & Field a monthly print publication that will replace The Baptist Paper’s “BGAV Edition” insert. Beginning
BGAV’s chief marketing officer, said the move reflects both
PROGRAM PERSONNEL
• Raphael Anzenberger, General Secretary, UEBFC, Quebec, Canada
• Chris Backer t, Associate Executive Director, BGAV/Ascent, Henrico, VA
• Tim Brown, Senior Pastor, Highlands Fellowship, Abingdon, VA
• Jim Bunce, Senior Pastor, Marlow Heights Baptist Church, Front Royal, VA
• Chosen Road
• Scott Curtis, Pastor, Heritage Baptist Church, Farmville, VA
• Wayne Faison, Executive Director, BGAV/Ascent, Henrico, VA; Senior Pastor, East End Baptist Church, Suffolk, VA
• Mike Hatfield, Pastor, Chatham Heights Baptist Church and First Baptist Church of Martinsville, Martinsville, VA
• Highlands Fellowship Praise Band, Highlands Fellowship, Abingdon, VA
• Wayne Jenkins, First Baptist Church, Alexandria, VA
• Allen Jessee, Pastor of Regional and Global Networks, Highlands Fellowship, Abingdon, VA
• Karl Johnson, BWA Chair (2025 – 2030), Jamaica
• Timothy Madison, Senior Pastor, Emmaus Baptist Church, Providence Forge, VA
• W. Shelton Miles III, Pastor, Union Hill Baptist Church, Brookneal, VA
• Alan Miller, Senior Pastor, Orange Baptist Church, Orange, VA
• Holly Nichols, Chair, Committee on Memorials; North Fork Baptist Church, Purcellville, VA
• Mark Olson, Senior Pastor, Haymarket Baptist Church, Haymarket, VA
• Phil Peacock , Senior Pastor, Broadus Memorial Baptist Church, Mechanicsville, VA
• Steve Peterson, President , Bluefield University, Bluefield, VA
• Rachel Pierce, First Baptist Church, Ashland, VA
• Charles Reese and Rebecca McCoy-Reese, Bluefield University, Bluefield, VA
• Jordan Secrist, New River Fellowship, Christiansburg, VA
• Rose Mar y Stewart, First Baptist Church, Ashland, VA
• Cindy Wiles, Executive Director, Restore Hope, Arlington, TX
LEARNING LABS
LEARNING LABS #1
Monday, 3:30 p.m.
WORLD-CHANGING TEAMS: A PATHWAY FOR Chapel BUILDING AND DISCIPLING YOUR NEXT GEN MINISTRY
Next Gen Ministry is one of the most volunteer-intensive areas of church life. The high demand for leaders places constant pressure on ministry staff and volunteers alike. In a season when the pool of available volunteers continues to shrink, even the most passionate leaders can become discouraged, frustrated, and eventually burned out. But it doesn’t have to be this way. This interactive Learning Lab will equip children’s and student ministry leaders with a practical framework for building healthy, sustainable teams that does more than fill holes.
Led by Penny Miller + James Dick, Highlands Fellowship, Abingdon, VA; Lora Gravatt, Columbia Church, Falls Church, VA
SEVEN JESUS-SHAPED PRACTICES
Countr y Tent FOR A THRIVING CHURCH
We train our Uptick Core (Pastors) participants in seven key elements that can help their churches to grow and thrive. These would include principles about how to help members engage with evangelism and discipleship, how to inspire and mobilize the next generation, how to help people to be full of passion for Jesus, How to encourage people to step into their calling and purpose and how to help the church to function as a healthy body.
These are things that are easy to get distracted from in ministry life, but are very important for the long-term life and health of a local church. Discussion, examples, and interaction will be included throughout the session.
Led by Paul Maconochie, Uptick
NOTE: items in BLUE will be livestreamed. Access livestream coverage through the Whova app or at
DECISIONS IN THE DARK: NAVIGATING UNCERTAIN TIMES
Room 201
In a world marked by complexity and rapid change, how do we faithfully discern the right path forward, especially when the way isn’t clear? This active, participatory lab is designed to help leaders and teams navigate cultural uncertainty with spiritual discernment and practical wisdom. Together, we will explore ways to better understand the times we are living in and learn how to make faithful decisions even when clarity is hard to come by. Decisions in the Dark is a prayer-led framework for collaborative decision-making in uncertain contexts. Rooted in the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the collective wisdom of the community, this process was forged in real-world situations where the stakes were high and the outcomes unknown. It is a tool developed from experience, not theory, that helps leaders move forward with courage and clarity. You will leave this workshop with a practical, adaptable process that you can immediately use in your church or leadership context.
Led by JR Woodward + Jessie Cruickshank, V3 Church Planting Movement
RELIGIOUS LIBERTY AND THE GOLDEN RULE
Room 203
Baptists in the US have been champions of religious liberty for people of all faiths, and no faith, since before the beginning of our republic. Yet this foundational principle of both Baptist faith and American freedom must constantly be relearned and applied in new eras and new situations. Join us as we use the lens of Jesus’ teaching of the Golden Rule to consider how to be champions of religious liberty for everyone; this will include a panel discussion with pastors navigating the issues of religious liberty in our cultural context and conversation around current concerns in our society and communities that impact religious liberty.
Led by Adam Tyler + panelists, BGAV Religious Liberty Committee
FOOD TO FAITH: TRANSFORMING HUNGER MINISTRY Student Room INTO COLLABORATIVE COMMUNITY AND DINNER CHURCH
This session will help churches consider how their existing food pantries or hunger ministries can become communities of mutual friendship and potentially faith exploration. We will explore a shift from mission “to” or “for” the community to mission “with” and “among” the community and hear from several churches who have navigated this shift. Participants will dream and plan for how they might be able to serve the physical needs of their community while also building friendships and faith community around food.
Led by Shannon Kiser, Fresh Expressions; Dean Miller, Impact Missions
LIVESTREAM ONLY:
THE THEOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS OF THE CLASSIC BAPTIST CONVICTION FOR THE SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE
Virginia Baptists contributed significantly to the question of whether or not to have an “established” religion. There were various voices advocating for the separation of church and state. Virginia Baptists were unique in advocating this position for theological concerns. In this session you will be reminded of these convictions. There will also be time to reflect on the perennial significance of this tradition.
Led by Shelton Miles, BGAV Religious Liberty Committee
LIVESTREAM ONLY:
DEVELOPING LEADERS THROUGH COACHING RELATIONSHIPS
Developing church leaders in the 21st century calls for a different approach. Join us as we look at how businesses and ministries across the country and globe have discovered how a powerful coaching relationship can transform leaders into engaging, growing leaders. You will experience a dynamic demonstration of coaching and hear from leaders who have used coaching as a springboard to growth and opportunity.
Led by Ken Kessler, Empower Coaching
NOTE: items in BLUE will be livestreamed. Access livestream coverage through the Whova app or at meeting.bgav.org.
LEARNING LABS #2
Tuesday, 1:00 p.m.
DINNER CHURCH: BUILDING A NEW FORM OF FAITH
Room 201 COMMUNITY AROUND A SHARED
MEAL
In this session, you will discover how a simple Jesus story, shared lives around a shared meal, and some practical 21st century evangelism skills can transform lives around a dinner table. Your church can do this… we can show you how.
Led by Verlon Fosner, Fresh Expressions
HANDS-ON COMMUNITY MINISTRY
Room 203
How can my church make a meaningful contribution to God’s mission locally and beyond? Church to community partnerships provide an authentic way to do that, and they enable us to observe how the Holy Spirit is moving God’s mission forward in different contexts. This broader perspective helps us, in turn, to discover how we can better participate in God’s mission in our own and other cultures.
Led by Craig Waddell + Kristen Curtis, Impact Missions
HOW TO ADD STAFF FOR YOUR CHURCH
FOR $20/MONTH (ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE)
Countr y Tent
Multiply your church’s impact without multiplying your budget. Artificial Intelligence isn’t just for big tech companies; it’s the biggest tool of our lifetime for ministry empowerment. Join us to learn how to ethically and practically use AI to free up time for what truly matters: mission.
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll discover how to leverage simple, powerful AI tools to create your own “AI staff.” You’ll leave with actionable takeaways, realworld examples, and a clear blueprint to leverage this new tech. Learn how to lead with AI while keeping the human at the center of your ministry.
Led by Liz Baker, Nimbology
NEXT GEN, NEXT DOOR: Chapel ENGAGING YOUR COMMUNITY WITH PURPOSE
What if the greatest mission field for your Next Gen ministry is just outside your church doors? This Learning Lab invites children’s and student ministry leaders to move from programs to presence: engaging kids, teens, and families right where they already live, learn, and play. Through stories from local practitioners and hands-on exercises, you’ll learn how to listen to your community, partner with what God is already doing, and help your leaders and students become bridge-builders of hope. You’ll leave with a personal map and one actionable next step to bring your ministry closer to your neighbors.
Led by Rob Covington, Bonsack Baptist Church, Roanoke, VA; Michael DuVal, Journey Church, Roanoke, VA; Emily Collins, Westwood Baptist Church, Springfield, VA; Lora Gravatt, Columbia Church, Falls Church, VA
LEADERS WHO DEVELOP LEADERS: Student Room THE WHY, THE HOW, AND THE FOR HOW LONG
Succession planning is a primal part of discipleship. When we recognize that as we are called to serve, we are also called to disciple individuals to continue, update, and modify what we have been given. Often, this may only be considered in the sphere of church; but what if the principles can be applied in different spheres of life including the non-profit sector or in a business? This Learning Lab will offer general Uptick principles accompanied by Scripture (Matthew 4:19, Matthew 17:14-18, Luke 10:1, and Matthew 16:14-19), and stories from experienced leaders who discipled other leaders as they made plans for succession. Participants will learn one of Uptick’s discipleship Lifeshapes (the square), and understand the biblical importance of discipleship and succession. Led by Archie Bates-Mendoza + Sonya Habimana, Uptick
LIVESTREAM ONLY: HOW TO TALK TO CHILDREN ABOUT DEATH
This breakout session is designed to offer practical guidance on the subject of talking with children about death. This workshop will equip you with effective communication strategies to help children process loss and grief in a supportive manner. We’ll discuss age-appropriate language, common questions children may have, and ways to create a safe space for dialogue. Through interactive activities you’ll gain confidence in addressing this sensitive topic while providing spiritual guidance. By the end of the session, you’ll be better prepared to support families in navigating conversations about death, fostering hope and understanding for young hearts.
Led by Kim Eskridge, First Baptist Church, Alexandria, VA
NOTE: items in BLUE will be livestreamed. Access livestream coverage through the Whova app or at meeting.bgav.org.
LIVESTREAM ONLY:
REIMAGINING THE CLASSICS: MINISTERING TO GEN Z AND GEN ALPHA
This session will explore how to transform time-honored ministry events into dynamic experiences designed to resonate with Generation Z and Generation Alpha. Generations change, but a desire to love God and others well continues to connect with younger generations. Participants in this lab will learn characteristics of Generations Z and Alpha, assess the ways in which they are currently ministering to children and youth, and take part in an interactive ministry event redesign to implement in their context.
Led by Cadance Tyler, Impact Missions
LEARNING LABS #3
Tuesday, 3:00 p.m.
PAUSE & PASTE: CREATIVE REST FOR PASTORS AND LEADERS Room 203
This hands-on workshop invites pastors and leaders into a space of creative rest and reflection. Using the simple practice of collage, you’ll explore what’s fueling and draining you in this season of leadership, and discern what rest and renewal may be needed. No art experience is necessary, and all art materials and guidance will be provided.
Led by Amy Hall, Shalom Creatives
REIMAGINING THE CLASSICS: Countr y Tent MINISTERING TO GEN Z AND GEN ALPHA
This session will explore how to transform time-honored ministry events into dynamic experiences designed to resonate with Generation Z and Generation Alpha. Generations change, but a desire to love God and others well continues to connect with younger generations. Participants in this lab will learn characteristics of Generations Z and Alpha, assess the ways in which they are currently ministering to children and youth, and take part in an interactive ministry event redesign to implement in their context.
Led by Cadance Tyler, Impact Missions
BEYOND THE SURFACE: REVEALING THE VOICE Chapel THAT SHAPES YOUR LEADERSHIP AND DRIVES CHANGE
Leading change is rarely smooth—conflict, resistance, and miscommunication often arise. The 5 Voices framework helps leaders discover their unique leadership style and equips them with practical tools to communicate, collaborate, and engage others more effectively. Leaders will gain actionable insights to foster deeper collaboration and momentum in times of transition.
Led by Michael Pumphrey, Empower Coaching
A MORE BEAUTIFUL PARTNERSHIP: REIMAGINING Student Room THE CHURCH & CDC TOGETHER FOR GOSPEL IMPACT
Many churches already hold a vibrant mission field within their walls: weekday preschools and Child Development Centers. These ministries provide daily access to and build important relationships with children and families, but without an intentional strategy these families may never find their way into the life of your church. This session invites senior leaders to reimagine these ministries not as separate operations, but as sacred opportunities for gospel-
NOTE: items in BLUE will be
Access livestream coverage through the Whova app or at meeting.bgav.org.
centered transformation. Through real-world examples, collaborative exercises, and practical tools, participants will learn how to align their church and CDC for shared mission, deepen staff partnership, and create a clear next step toward reaching families in their own community.
Led by Jim Baucom + Lora Gravatt, Columbia Church, Falls Church, VA
DEVELOPING LEADERS THROUGH COACHING RELATIONSHIPS Room 201
Developing church leaders in the 21st century calls for a different approach. Join us as we look at how businesses and ministries across the country and globe have discovered how a powerful coaching relationship can transform leaders into engaging, growing leaders. You will experience a dynamic demonstration of coaching and hear from leaders who have used coaching as a springboard to growth and opportunity.
Led by Ken Kessler, Empower Coaching
LIVESTREAM
ONLY: BAPTIST DISTINCTIVES
What would you say if someone were to ask you, “What is the one thing that makes the Baptist denomination different from other Christian denominations?” Have you ever struggled to define what sets Baptist churches apart from others? Baptists come in a variety of “flavors.” They hold different interpretations and views on certain issues, such as the Second Coming of Christ, worship styles, and leadership structure. However, certain distinct beliefs must be included to be called Baptist.
Led by Todd Latham, Memorial Baptist Church, Staunton, VA
LIVESTREAM ONLY: SEVEN JESUS-SHAPED PRACTICES FOR A THRIVING CHURCH
We train our Uptick Core (Pastors) participants in seven key elements that can help their churches to grow and thrive. These would include principles about how to help members engage with evangelism and discipleship, how to inspire and mobilize the next generation, how to help people to be full of passion for Jesus, How to encourage people to step into their calling and purpose and how to help the church to function as a healthy body.
These are things that are easy to get distracted from in ministry life, but are very important for the long-term life and health of a local church. Discussion, examples, and interaction will be included throughout the session.
Led by Paul Maconochie, Uptick
INSIGHT SESSIONS
Tuesday, 4:30 p.m.
A RHYTHM OF WORK AND REST: WHY SABBATICALS
ARE VITAL TO HEALTHY MINISTERS AND MINISTRIES
Room 201
According to Clergy Renewal: The Alban Guide to Sabbatical Planning, “the essence of Sabbatical is rooted in the Hebrew word sabbat and the biblical traditions surrounding it.” In this breakout session, we will rely heavily on Ruth Haley Barton’s book Embracing Rhythms of Work and Rest and look at how the sabbath practices to which we have already been called will lead to a stronger, extended time of sabbatical and why this gift of time and space is not only healthy and beneficial for the minister but also for the church/ministry setting where he or she serves.
Led by Eli Withers, Harrisonburg Baptist Church, Harrisonburg, VA
SACRED CARE: BRIDGING SECTORS, BUILDING TRUST – Student Room PARTNERSHIPS THAT TRANSFORM COMMUNITIES
This session explores how churches, healthcare providers, and community partners can come together to build meaningful relationships and sustainable partnerships. By working collaboratively, we can strengthen support systems, promote well being, and serve our neighbors.
Led by Rachel Pierce, VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center
PROTECTING THE VULNERABLE: PREVENTION AND RESPONSE
Room 203
In this session, participants will learn about ways to protect children and vulnerable adults in the church. We will share resources for developing protection and known offender policies, volunteer training, background checks, and responding to allegations of abuse.
Led by Kristen Curtis, Impact Missions
COMEBACK CHURCHES
Chapel
“Then he said to me, ‘ This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD of host.” – Zechariah 4:6
In the life of church, there can be seasons of discouragement. There are many factors that may contribute to a season of difficulty in the life of a local congregation. The purpose of this session is to be encouraged by hearing reports of congregational renewal across Virginia. Sometimes in a season of hardship we are called to persevere. Sometimes in the midst of hardship the church may be called to make changes. In this insight session we will look at several “Come Back Churches” across Virginia. We will look at the ways the Spirit of God has brought renewal.
Led by Luke Smith, Linden Heights Baptist Church, Staunton, VA
TELLING THE RELIGIOUS LIBERTY STORY: Countr y Tent VIDEO RESOURCES FOR BGAV CHURCHES
Virginia Baptists have been champions of religious liberty from the beginning. But how do we tell that important story? BGAV’s Religious Liberty Committee is producing a series of videos to meet that need. In this insight session, you can see the videos that have been produced, including the newest addition – the story of Virginia Baptists at the Battle of King’s Mountain – and engage in a discussion about how these resources can be used in your church.
Led by Adam Tyler, BGAV Religious Liberty Committee
EXECUTIVE BOARD AND BUDGET DIALOGUE
Worship Center
Do you have questions about any of the business being conducted this year or about the 2026 budget? Messengers and guests alike are welcome to attend this session to ask questions and discuss business-related items with BGAV leadership.
Led by David Washburn + Executive Board, BGAV
Learn Together. Worship Together. Grow Together.
At Baylor University’s Truett Seminary, we believe that people can best prepare for ministry in the context of a caring, Christ-centered community. Our shared mission is fueled by common commitments, resilient relationships, academic instruction, and spiritual formation. At Truett, students, faculty, and staff journey together, united in the belief that we are better together.
Whether you are discerning your calling, preparing for pastoral leadership, or pursuing related professional goals, at Baylor’s Truett Seminary you will find a place where your unique gifts and calling matter. We are more than an institution where you can pursue theological education — we are a community of men and women dedicated to gospel work and witness and to one another.
Join us at Truett Seminary, where life together shapes our mission and strengthens our impact.
Learn more at baylor.edu/truett. Waco | Houston | San Antonio
NAVIGATING
BGAV’S ANNUAL MEETING EVENT APP
Use these buttons to do the following:
• Leaderboard: View our top app users
• Photos: View photos from other attendees and post your own!
• Session Q&A: Ask session leaders about their Learning Lab
• Exhibitors: Get more information about our Ministry Fair exhibitors
• Logistics: View local hotel information
• Speakers: Get more information about all of this year’s guest speakers and session leaders
• Documents: Resources like the Book of Reports and Program Guide are available for digital viewing
• Voting: *For Messengers Only* This button will appear for messengers to cast their votes during business session times throughout the meeting
Use the bottom icons to do the following:
• AGENDA: View the meeting schedule and create your own agenda with sessions, Learning Labs, and other gatherings you plan to attend
• ATTENDEES: View and connect with other registered attendees
• COMMUNITY: Create and participate in posts surrounding special groups, networking opportunities, carpooling, Experience BGAV meetups, and more!
• MESSAGES: Receive event updates, and send and receive messages to/from other attendees
ART NOT YET for the
A BGAV Arts
Collaborative
A Call for Poetry, Music, Stories, Spoken Word, Visual Art, Sculpture, and Digital Media
Open to BGAV pastors, church members, worship leaders, artists, musicians, students, and storytellers!
BGAV invites Virginia Baptists to lend your creativity to Art for the Not Yet—a collaborative arts project celebrating the creative heartbeat of the Church.
What We’re Looking For
• Reflec t BGAV’s 2026 Annual Meeting theme, Heart for the Not Yet—exploring God’s compassion for people, places, and possibilities still waiting to be reached.
• Express creativity through visual ar t, music, sculpture, spoken word, video, or digital media.
• Uplift, challenge, and inspire the Church toward mission, imagination, and hope.
• Are suitable for print, projec tion, or physical display in a gallery or digital format at the 2026 Annual Meeting as well as in other BGAV communication channels.
Theme: Heart for the Not Yet
Exhibit Dates: November 9–11, 2026
Location: Virginia Beach Convention Center, Virginia Beach, VA
Deadline for Submissions: April 15, 2026
Scan the QR code below to complete our evaluation form and tell us about your experience at this year’s meeting!
To scan the code on most smartphones, open your phone’s camera app and position the screen over the square below. Continue to your phone’s browser app when prompted. Please answer all evaluation questions.
Paper evaluation forms will be available outside the Worship Center (Main Session) Wednesday morning for those who prefer to fill out a printed form.