203RD ANNUAL MEETING OF THE BAPTIST GENERAL ASSOCIATION OF VIRGINIA
2026 BOOK OF REPORTS NOVEMBER 9-11, 2026 VIRGINIA BEACH, VIRGINIA
“These people who have been turning the world upside down have come here also” Acts 17:6b, NRSV
TABLE OF CONTENTS BGAV 2026 BOOK OF REPORTS
Introductory Materials Registration and Voting Procedures...................................................................................................... 4 To Introduce Business...............................................................................................................................5 BGAV Officers and Committees............................................................................................................. 6 Virginia Baptist Executive Board Members...........................................................................................7 Virginia Baptist Mission Council Members.......................................................................................... 8 Recommendations and Reports................................................................................................................ 9 Treasurer’s Report.................................................................................................................................... 10 Recommendations and Reports from the Virginia Baptist Executive Board..................................11 Resolution of Appreciation for Mark Black.......................................................................................... 12 Resolution of Appreciation for Israel Galindo..................................................................................... 13 Resolution of Appreciation for Ken Kessler......................................................................................... 14 Resolution of Appreciation for Tom Stocks......................................................................................... 15 Resolution of Appreciation for Craig Waddell..................................................................................... 16 Election of Virginia Baptist Executive Board Nominees.................................................................... 17 Election of Virginia Baptist Executive Board Chair............................................................................. 18 2027 Proposed Cooperative Missions Budget Allocation and World Mission Causes................. 19 Report of the 2026 Alma Hunt Offering for Virginia Missions........................................................ 24 Official Reports of BGAV Boards and Committees............................................................................. 25 Committee on Boards and Committees Report................................................................................ 26 Nominations to the Committee on Boards and Committees.......................................................... 31 Nominations to the Virginia Baptist Mission Council....................................................................... 32 Christian Life Committee Report......................................................................................................... 38 Program Committee Report.................................................................................................................. 41 Religious Liberty Committee Report................................................................................................... 42 Resolutions Committee Report............................................................................................................ 44 Scholarships and Ministerial Education Funds Committee Report............................................... 45 BGAV Annual Report................................................................................................................................... 47 Annual Reports of Ministry Partners, Educational Institutions, and Shared Ministries............. 53 Annual Reports of Ministry Partners.................................................................................................... 54 Annual Reports of Educational Institutions........................................................................................ 69 Annual Reports of Shared Ministries.................................................................................................... 81 Constitution/Bylaws of BGAV................................................................................................................... 97
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REGISTRATION AND VOTING PROCEDURES At the 1971 annual meeting of the Baptist General Association of Virginia, registration and voting procedures for the annual meeting were established. I. Eligibility The eligibility of messengers is determined by the Constitution/Bylaws of the Baptist General Association of Virginia as follows: ARTICLE III. Section B: Composition The General Association shall be composed of the officers of the General Association and messengers elected by Baptist churches which follow the New Testament teaching of salvation by grace and believer’s baptism by immersion, and which cooperate with the General Association. Each church contributing financially at least $500 during the previous fiscal year, according to the treasurer’s report, to the Virginia portion of the Cooperative Missions Budget shall be entitled to two (2) messengers; to a total of three (3) messengers for $750; a total of four (4) messengers for $1000, and to one (1) more messenger for each additional $600; provided that no church shall be entitled to more than fifteen (15) messengers. If $500 is more than two percent (2%) of a church’s total annual receipts, such church is entitled to two (2) messengers, provided it contributes financially at least two percent (2%) of its total annual receipts to the Virginia portion of the Cooperative Missions Budget. The Cooperative Missions Budget as adopted by the General Association is the preferred way Virginia Baptists express their unity in mission and ministry. Cooperative Missions is Virginia Baptists’ long-standing commitment to the Cooperative Program. II. Registration • Messengers should be elected by cooperating Baptist churches. • A registration packet is mailed to each cooperating Baptist church and contains login credentials and registration forms required to complete messenger registration. • Cooperating Baptist churches may pre-register elected messengers for the Baptist General Association of Virginia’s annual meeting on-line or by mail or they can register on-site during the meeting. • Pre-registering messengers on-line requires login credentials. Churches may obtain this information within the registration packet or by contacting the Baptist General Association of Virginia. • Pre-registering messengers by mail as well as registering messengers on-site using the registration form requires an authorized signature. If an authorized signature is not present, the Baptist General Association of Virginia’s credentials committee will make a decision regarding the messenger status. III. Voting Registered messengers will be provided with a link and sign in information to allow them to access the voting process electronically. This will be the preferred method of voting for those in person and for those attending virtually. Messengers who do not have personal access to the internet will be given paper ballots at registration.
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TO INTRODUCE BUSINESS The following is provided as information to assist messengers with the “when and how to” of presenting amendments, motions, and resolutions. The information has been paraphrased from the Constitution/Bylaws of the Baptist General Association of Virginia, which are printed in full at the end of the Book of Reports. Article X states that amendments to the Constitution/Bylaws must be presented in writing during the morning session of the first day. Providing these qualifications are met, they will be voted upon during the business session of the second day. Article VIII, Section D of the BGAV Constitution/Bylaws states that motions which would change the policy of the General Association or recommend changes to the policy of any agency, institution or shared ministry connected with the General Association, shall be made in writing and presented on the first day of the annual meeting. Action on such motion shall occur on the second day of the annual meeting. A motion is defined as that business brought before the BGAV which relates to or affects the policies and/or operations of the BGAV. A policy is defined as those principles by which the BGAV is guided and managed. Article VII, General Provisions, Section I of the BGAV Constitution/Bylaws states that resolutions from messengers must be received in writing by the office of the Executive Director no later than October 15 and shall be referred to the Committee on Resolutions. Resolutions from the Executive Board or committees, and resolutions submitted for action by the Committee on Resolutions, must be published in the Book of Reports; or be published on the General Association website in advance of the annual meeting of the General Association; or be available to the messengers at registration. Adoption of any resolution shall require three-fourths (3/4) majority vote of the messengers present and voting. A resolution is defined as the expression of the opinion of registered messengers and in no way establishes the policies of the General Association. Only registered messengers, the Executive Board, and committees of the General Association are eligible to submit resolutions to the annual meeting of the General Association. Note: Matters introduced after the end of the first day of an annual meeting may not be considered at that annual meeting except by unanimous consent. Persons who desire assistance in putting in proper constitutional form matters of business to be presented to the General Association may contact any member of the Program Committee who will refer you to a resource person.
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203RD ANNUAL MEETING OFFICERS BAPTIST GENERAL ASSOCIATION OF VIRGINIA
2025–2026 BGAV OFFICERS
President............................................................................................... Stephen R. Adkins First Vice-President................................................................................ Mark C. Mofield Second Vice-President............................................................................. James D. Bunce Executive Director..................................................................................Wayne D. Faison Treasurer.............................................................................................. David B. Washburn Clerk..................................................................................................Timothy N. Madison
PROGRAM COMMITTEE
Alan Miller and Beth Anderson, Co-Chairs Julia Andrews Perry Cheng Leah Gilbert Harlow Mary Gilley Sylvia Hobgood Becky McKinney Tom Rosemeier Marcus Vaughan Jim Bunce, By Virtue of Office PARLIAMENTARIANS
Adam Tyler Bill Bryan TELLERS
Phillips Wright, Chair Kent Brown Lloyd Carter Jim Heath Jonathan Hilliard Danny Quirin CREDENTIALS
Brady Willis, Chair Richard Abbott Michelle Heath Kornel Kiss Tyler Phillips John Ryland Stephen Wiley 6 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
VIRGINIA BAPTIST EXECUTIVE BOARD BAPTIST GENERAL ASSOCIATION OF VIRGINIA
MEMBERS BY VIRTUE OF OFFICE
Stephen R. Adkins (Layperson) Church: Samaria Baptist Church, Charles City President, BGAV
Wyatt Shelton Miles III (Minister) Church: Kedron Baptist Church,Gladys Immediate Past President, BGAV
Mark Mofield (Minister) Church: Melrose Baptist Church, Roanoke First Vice President, BGAV
Wayne Faison (Minister) Church: East End Baptist Church, Suffolk Executive Director, BGAV
James ( Jim) Bunce (Minister) Church: Marlow Heights Baptist Church, Front Royal Second Vice President, BGAV
David Washburn (Minister) Church: Second Baptist Church, Richmond Treasurer, BGAV
ELECTED MEMBERS 2026
Michael Duncan (Minister) Church: Grace Hills Baptist Church, Appomattox 1st Term, term to expire 2026 (filling an unexpired term) Josh Franklin (Minister) Church: Mount Vernon Baptist Church, Glen Allen 1st Term, term to expire 2026 (filling an unexpired term) Carlton Gunter (Minister) Church: First Baptist Church of Altavista 2nd Term, term to expire 2026 Wayne Jenkins (Minister) Church: First Baptist Church of Alexandria 2nd Term, term to expire 2026
Kristin Elaine Olson (Layperson) Church: Haymarket Baptist Church 1st Term, term to expire 2027 (filling an unexpired term) Beth Sloane (Layperson) Church: Beale Memorial Baptist Church, Tappahannock 1st Term, term to expire 2027 Mary Terry (Layperson) Church: First Baptist Church (Main Street), Charlottesville 1st Term, term to expire 2027 2028
Roberta Anderson (Minister) Church: Bethlehem Baptist Church, Richmond 2nd Term, term to expire 2028
Michael Lee Moore (Layperson) Church: Gracewood Community Church, Lebanon 1st Term, term to expire 2026
Annette Bennett (Layperson) Church: Providence Baptist Church, Red House 1st Term, term to expire 2028
2027
Tommy Allen Jessee, Jr. (Minister) Church: Highlands Fellowship Church 3rd Term, term to expire 2028
Sarah U. Burnett (Layperson) Church: Woodland Baptist Church, Arrington 1st Term, term to expire 2027 Angie Frame (Minister) Church: Passion Community Church, Powhatan 1st Term, term to expire 2027
C. Diane Mosby (Minister) Church: Anointed New Life Baptist Church 1st Term, term to expire 2028 John B. Sawyer (Minister) Church: James River Community Church 2nd Term, term to expire 2028 BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 7
VIRGINIA BAPTIST MISSION COUNCIL BAPTIST GENERAL ASSOCIATION OF VIRGINIA
ELECTED MEMBERS 2026
Debby Ashley, Central/Valley Region Phil Bailey, Central/Valley Region Danielle Bridgeforth, Northern Region Tim Brown, Southwest Region Ben Caldwell, Tidewater Region Samuel Alexander (Alex) Crocker, Tidewater Region Michael Edwards, Capital Region Joy Eure, Northern Region Andrew Garnett, Tidewater Region Bob Gordon, Northern Region Chad Harris, Southside Region Mike Hatfield, Southwest Region Jonathan Hilliard, Southside Region Robert Lee, Tidewater Region Linda Mays, Southside Region Mark Miller, Capital Region Jennifer Mullins, Capital Region Kristen Old, Tidewater Region Rupert H. Rose, Jr., Capital Region Richard Sandberg, Capital Region Terry Semones, Southwest Region John H. Stone, Central/Valley Region Nancy Gail Swanson, Southside Region David Vogt, Central/Valley Region Shawn White, Southwest Region Austin Williams, Central/Valley Region Donna Winebarger, Southwest Region 2027
Kris Aaron, Southwest Region Richard Abbott, Tidewater Region Pat Craft, Southwest Region Josh Crews, Southside Region Kevin Crowder, Tidewater Region Travis DeBusk, Southwest Region Kyle Dobyns, Capital Region Philip Elliott, Northern Region Brenda L. Evans, Capital Region Doug Frazier, Central/Valley Region Laura French, Southside Region Eric Gilchrest, Northern Region Denise Harcum, Capital Region Brenda Hastings, Northern Region Warren Johnson, Tidewater Region
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Mac Jordan, Capital Region Lynn Marstin, Southside Region Tyler Phillips, Central/Valley Region Jake Roudebush, Central/Valley Region John Ryland, Tidewater Region Heather Saunders, Northern Region Susan Smith, Southwest Region Jerry Stanfield, Southside Region Susan D. Stone, Tidewater Region Judy Vicars, Southwest Region Catherine White, Southside Region Tom Williams, Capital Region Matt Winters, Central/Valley Region Greg Wissinger, Central/Valley Region 2028
Andre Amaral, Capital Region Roger Austin, Central/Valley Region Ben Boyd, Capital Region Leroy Bradshaw, Southside Region Roger Crump, Capital Region Skyler Daniel, Central/Valley Region Michele Heath, Central/Valley Region Dawn Hughes, Tidewater Region Joyce Jones, Southside Region Doug Lee, Southside Region Sam Maxwell, Northern Region Steve Nethery, Central/Valley Region Thomas Saunders, Central/Valley Region Carter Tan, Capital Region Pamela Vaughan, Capital Region Kristen White, Southside Region Douglas Duty Jr., Northern Region Richard Goddard, Northern Region Russell Goodrich, Tidewater Region Alan Miller, Northern Region Julius Morrow, Tidewater Region Matt Parron, Tidewater Region Allan Smith, Northern Region Patrick Wood, Tidewater Region Connie Cruze, Southwest Region Lynette Johnson, Southwest Region Kevin Rosenfeld, Southwest Region Lisa Wolfe, Southwest Region Andy Wood, Southwest Region
2026 BGAV BOOK OF REPORTS
RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS FROM THE VIRGINIA BAPTIST EXECUTIVE BOARD TREASURER’S REPORT
RECOMMENDATIONS TO BE APPROVED:
• RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS FROM THE VIRGINIA BAPTIST EXECUTIVE BOARD • RESOLUTIONS OF APPRECIATION • ELECTION OF VIRGINIA BAPTIST EXECUTIVE BOARD NOMINEES • ELECTION OF VIRGINIA BAPTIST EXECUTIVE BOARD CHAIR • REPORT OF THE 2026 ALMA HUNT OFFERING FOR VIRGINIA MISSIONS • 2027 PROPOSED COOPERATIVE MISSIONS BUDGET ALLOCATION • 2027 PROPOSED WORLD MISSION CAUSES
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TREASURER’S REPORT
DISTRIBUTION OF GIFTS RECEIVED AS OF SEPTEMBER 30, 2026 COOPERATIVE MISSIONS BGAV Ministries Partnership Missions Averett University Baptist Extension Board Bluefield University Center for Baptist Heritage and Studies EverBless Foundation Fork Union Military Academy GraceInside Hargrave Military Academy HerMission (formerly WMUV) HopeTree Family Services LifeSpire of Virginia Oak Hill Academy Virginia Baptist Historical Society
$2,897,700 $90,101 $31 $660 $19,028 $34,743 $341 $64 $21,428 $64 $151,113 $17,937 $1,919 $7,573 $13,553
WORLD MISSION CAUSES Ascent Kingdom Advance New Missions Initiatives Reaching Virginia Missions Development & Relief Leland Seminary Baptist World Alliance Ministerial Education Fund Baptist Joint Committee Ministering to Ministers Foundation BGAV News & Resources Southern Baptist Convention International Mission Board - SBC North American Mission Board - SBC Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission - SBC Historical Library and Archives - SBC Guidestone Financial Resources - SBC Gateway Seminary - SBC Midwestern Seminary - SBC New Orleans Seminary - SBC Southeastern Seminary - SBC Southern Seminary - SBC Southwestern Seminary - SBC
$122,073 $124,049 $76,291 $74,366 $47,673 $50,398 $27,449 $26,263 $17,094 $10,655 $428,128 $66,194 $27,079 $522 $147 $1,125 $1,218 $1,322 $1,293 $1,300 $1,381 $1,290
OTHER SPECIAL OFFERINGS AND DESIGNATIONS Alma Hunt Offering for Virginia Missions Annie Armstrong Missions Offering BGAV International Missions Offering Lottie Moon Missions Offering World Hunger Other Designations Total Receipts as of September 30, 2026 10 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
$4,363,564
DESIGNATIONS $24,662
$8,576 $2,300 $750 $22,849 $3,102
$255,036 $5,131
$584 $375
$7,677 $15,851
$665
TOTAL $2,897,700 $114,763 $31 $660 $19,028 $34,743 $341 $8,640 $23,728 $64 $151,863 $40,786 $5,022 $7,573 $13,553
$377,109 $129,180 $76,291 $74,366 $47,673 $50,982 $27,824 $26,263 $17,094 $10,655 $428,128 $73,871 $42,930 $522 $147 $1,790 $1,218 $1,322 $1,293 $1,300 $1,381 $1,290
$127,472 $706,947 $18,321 $646,655 $38,152 $1,745,154
$127,472 $706,947 $18,321 $646,655 $38,152 $1,745,154
$3,630,259
$7,993,824
RECOMMENDATIONS AND REPORTS FROM THE VIRGINIA BAPTIST EXECUTIVE BOARD 1. Approved six new Uptick Advisory Board Members: Scott Anderson, Nelson Bown, Emma Hammond, Tim McCain, Becky McKinney, and Karen Wilson. 2. Approved the formation of a task force for Child Sexual Abuse Prevention and Response. 3. Approved the 2026 Alma Hunt Allocations. 4. Mike Pumphrey approved to succeed Ken Kessler to lead the Coaching Network. 5. Authorized the Executive Director or Treasurer to approve housing allowances for ordained staff. 6. Received the full 2025 audit report from Keiter CPA firm. 7. Approved two new Missio Alliance Advisory Board Members: Ariana Dugan and Rob Dixon. 8. Approved a Resolution of Appreciation for Rev. Dr. Ken Kessler. 9. Approved a Resolution of Appreciation for Rev. Dr. Tom Stocks. 10. Approved a Resolution of Appreciation for Rev. Craig Waddell. 11. Approved a Resolution of Appreciation for Captain Mark Black. 12. Approved a Resolution of Appreciation for Rev. Dr. Israel Galindo. 13. Welford Orrock approved to succeed Susan McBride to lead Congregational Field Strategists. 14. Recommend the following nominees to serve on the Executive Board, terms to expire 2029: Michael Duncan (M), second term (Grace Hills Baptist Church); Kim Eskridge (M), first term (First Baptist Church of Alexandria); W. Shelton Miles III (M), first term (Kedron Baptist Church); Michael Moore (L), second term (Gracewood Community Church); and Charles Tilley (L), first term, (Richmond’s First Baptist Church). 15. Recommend the nomination of John Sawyer, James River Community Church to serve as chair of the Executive Board in 2027 and approved Allen Jessee, Highlands Fellowship Baptist to serve as vice chair of the Executive Board in 2027 and Angie Frame, Passion Community Church to serve as secretary of the Executive Board in 2027. 16. Approved the Future Organizational Development Proposal from the Ascent Steering Council. 17. Approved the full-time and part-time salary scales for 2027. 18. Approved the $6,388,889 Cooperative Missions budget goal for 2027. 19. Approved the Treasurer be authorized to distribute all funds received after January 8, 2027, in accordance with the 2027 budget.
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RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION: MARK BLACK Captain Mark E. Black, USN (Ret.) announced his retirement as President of Fork Union Military Academy effective July 31, 2026. Having been appointed President-elect in March 2023 following the retirement of Col. David L. Coggins, USMC (Ret.), he took formal command on Founder’s Day, October 15, 2023, as the 12th President of Fork Union Military Academy (FUMA), a Christian, college-preparatory boarding school in Fork Union, Virginia, serving young men in grades 7–12 and postgraduates. WHEREAS, under Captain Black’s leadership, FUMA celebrated its 125th Anniversary in 2023, honoring Col. Coggins’ tenure and reaffirming the Academy’s commitment to tradition, discipline, and character development. The Board of Trustees praised Captain Black’s leadership and readiness to guide the Academy forward while preserving its core values; and WHEREAS, Captain Black also served as a faculty member in the Academy’s unique One Subject Plan program, teaching courses in U.S. Military and War History, Leadership and Ethics, and U.S. Government. He also coached lacrosse and football at FUMA with emphasis on the Academy’s mission of educating, developing, and inspiring young men in a Christian, military environment, with a focus on “Body, Mind & Spirit”; and WHEREAS, Captain Black attended the Virginia Military Institute, where he lettered in football, was selected as a member of Omicron Delta Epsilon and the Kappa Alpha Order, Beta Commission, graduated with Distinction earning a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, and was commissioned as an officer in the United States Navy through the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) in 1986; and WHEREAS, Captain Black continued his professional education by earning a Master of Arts in Strategic Studies with a regional specialization in Sub-Sahara Africa from the Air War College in 2002, completing Project Management coursework through the George Washington University School of Business in 2006, and the Navy Executive Development Course at the University of Virginia Darden School of Business in 2009; and WHEREAS, after concluding his distinguished naval service, Captain Black continued his lifelong commitment to educating and developing young leaders as the twelfth President of Fishburne Military School for five years before joining Fork Union Military Academy in 2021; and WHEREAS, throughout every stage of his career, Captain Black has exemplified the highest ideals of duty, honor, integrity, courage, servant leadership, and unwavering commitment to the development of future generations of military and civic leaders; and WHEREAS, Captain Black has been supported throughout his distinguished career by his wife, the former Kim White of Pace, Florida, and together they have raised two sons, Victor and Luke, both former collegiate lacrosse captains who now proudly serve in the Armed Forces, and who, along with grandson Evander, continue the family’s tradition of service to the Nation; and THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the members of the Baptist General Association of Virginia Executive Board meeting on September 10, 2026, hereby express our deepest appreciation and sincere gratitude to Captain Mark Black for his exceptional service to the United States of America, his unwavering dedication to military excellence, his outstanding leadership in combat and command, and his enduring commitment to educating and mentoring young men of character; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we ask the messengers at the Annual meeting of the Baptist General Association of Virginia in their meeting on November 10, 2026, at the Virginia Beach Convention Center, Virginia Beach, VA to express on behalf of all Virginia Baptists our gratitude to God and our deepest appreciation for the contributions of Captain Mark Black.
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RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION: ISRAEL GALINDO Dr. Israel Galindo retired as Associate Dean for Lifelong Learning at Columbia Theological Seminary at the end of December 2025. In this capacity, Dr. Galindo led the Ministering to Ministers program as part of the seminary’s Pastoral Excellence Program, under which the Ministering to Ministers initiative operates. WHEREAS, Prior to serving at Columbia he served at Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond as Dean and Professor of Christian Formation and Leadership where he was a tenured professor responsible for directing the curricular degree programs and supervising faculty activity and staff as well as teaching in the areas of education, formation, leadership studies, and congregational studies. WHEREAS, among his many contributions, Dr. Galindo’s leadership of Ministering to Ministers (MTM) represents a particularly meaningful expression of his commitment to those who devote their lives to serving the church; founded in 1994, Ministering to Ministers through its Wounded Ministers Retreats, provides spiritual, emotional, physical, social, and practical support to clergy and their families experiencing vocational crisis, particularly those facing forced termination or involuntary separation from their congregations; and WHEREAS, through his leadership, Dr. Galindo helped advance the Ministering to Ministers ministry that has reached clergy across denominational and geographic boundaries, affirming that a minister’s worth and calling do not end when a ministry position ends; and WHEREAS, Dr. Galindo brought to this ministry the wisdom gained through his own service as a pastor, hospice chaplain, educator, academic administrator, and scholar, as well as his numerous publications on pastoral leadership, congregational life, and ministry which have further equipped generations of leaders to serve with greater wisdom, resilience, and faithfulness; and WHEREAS, He earned the Doctor of Education, Ed.D., Master of Divinity, Master of Religious Education, from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and the Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Literature, Northeastern College with additional studies at The Bowen Theory Education Center, the University of New Orleans; the Harvard Graduate School of Education—WIDE World Initiative Program; and Clinical Pastoral Training at Southeast Louisiana Hospital; and WHEREAS, He has authored numerous publications in the field of theology, religion, education, and leadership, including The Hidden Lives of Congregations, Leadership in Ministry, The Virtuous Leader, When a Pastor is Fired, Perspectives on Congregational Leadership, 60 Leadership Concepts, Case Studies in Pastoral Leadership, Reframing Ministry Leadership, Academic Leadership, and Leadership Pitfalls; THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we express our deepest appreciation and gratitude to Dr. Israel Galindo for his distinguished service and, especially, for his faithful leadership and commitment to Ministering to Ministers; a ministry in which wounded ministers and their families could find compassion rather than judgment, community rather than isolation, and hope rather than despair; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we, the elected members of the Virginia Baptist Executive Board, meeting on September 10, 2026, extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Galindo; and Be It Finally Resolved, that we request the messengers of the Annual Meeting of the Baptist General Association of Virginia, gathering in Virginia Beach on November 10, 2026, to join in expressing appreciation for Dr. Galindo’s faithful ministry and to offer prayers of thanksgiving for his lasting legacy and for God’s continued blessings upon him and his family in the years ahead.
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RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION: KEN KESSLER Rev. Dr. Ken Kessler retired from the Baptist General Association of Virginia staff as Director of the Coaching Network on February 28, 2026, after eighteen years of service. WHEREAS, Ken has faithfully answered God’s call to ministry and leadership for more than four decades, dedicating his life to strengthening congregations, equipping ministers, and advancing the mission of Christ through the local church; and WHEREAS, Ken has served with distinction as Team Leader for the Empowering Leaders Team and currently as Director of the Coaching Network for the Baptist General Association of Virginia, providing visionary leadership, cultivating meaningful relationships with pastors across the Commonwealth, coordinating interim ministry, supporting new pastors, and serving as liaison to the Religious Liberty Committee; and WHEREAS, his prior service includes impactful leadership roles with the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina; Metrolina Baptist Association; Brookwood Baptist Church in Birmingham, AL; Brentwood Baptist Church in Tennessee; and numerous other congregations and associations, guiding churches through seasons of transition, discipleship growth, outreach, and strategic planning; and WHEREAS, Ken has faithfully served as an interim pastor in multiple churches in North Carolina and Virginia, offering steady leadership, pastoral care, and wisdom during times of change; and WHEREAS, he has demonstrated exceptional gifts in strategic conversation, coaching, teaching, networking, listening, and leadership development, always marked by a spirit of encouragement, humility, and deep care for pastors and congregations; and WHEREAS, Ken’s commitment to lifelong learning is evidenced by his academic achievements, including a Bachelor of Arts degree from Gardner-Webb College (1978), a Master of Divinity degree from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (1981), and a Doctor of Ministry degree from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (1995) with a focus on Adult Learning; and WHEREAS, his influence has extended beyond local and state boundaries through his leadership with Coaching.com and Christian Coach Network International, as well as through his professional credentials as a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) and Christian Professional Certified Coach (CPCC); and WHEREAS, throughout his ministry journey, Ken has been supported and strengthened by his wife, Teresa, to whom he has been married for forty-two years, and by his family—children Kevin, Bryan, and Jacob, and grandchildren Finley, Callum, and Baylor—who share in the fruits of his faithful service; THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the elected members of the Virginia Baptist Executive Board meeting on September 10, offer our appreciation for the life and work of Rev. Dr. Ken Kessler, and we vow to support Ken and Teresa with our prayers as they move into a new chapter of ministry; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we ask the messengers of the Annual Meeting of the Baptist General Association of Virginia in Virginia Beach on November 10, 2026, to offer our gratitude for the ministry of Rev. Dr. Ken Kessler.
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RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION: TOM STOCKS Rev. Dr. Tom Stocks retired from the Baptist General Association of Virginia staff as Field Strategist for the Southside Region/Roanoke Valley on January 31, 2026. WHEREAS, Tom has faithfully served the churches of the Baptist General Association of Virginia and beyond for more than four decades, answering God’s call to ministry with integrity, wisdom, and a shepherd’s heart; and WHEREAS, in his current role as Field Strategist and Congregational Specialist for the Southside Region of BGAV, he has trained and assisted church search committees, guided congregations through seasons of transition, strengthened church health, and provided leadership resources that have shaped and sustained local churches; and WHEREAS, Tom has served more than 380 churches across Virginia, driven over half a million miles in faithful service, preached more than 35 revivals, completed numerous preaching interims, and led countless deacon retreats and training seminars, leaving a lasting impact on pastors, deacons, and congregations; and WHEREAS, Tom previously has served the Church with distinction in numerous ministry roles, including Journeyman Missionary in St. Lucia (West Indies), Consultant with the Baptist Men’s Department of North Carolina, Senior Pastor of Rosalind Hills Baptist Church in Roanoke and Bon Air Baptist Church in Richmond, and Field Strategist with the Baptist General Association of Virginia in both the Ridge Valley and Southside Regions; and WHEREAS, his commitment to lifelong learning is evident through his academic achievements, including a Bachelor of Arts from Mars Hill College (1980), Master of Sociology from Appalachian State University (1982), Master of Divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (1986), Doctor of Ministry from Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond (2001), and through his certifications in leadership coaching, critical incident stress management, police chaplaincy, and emotionally healthy spirituality training; and WHEREAS, he has been blessed with a devoted family, being married since 1982 to Paula Hagaman Stocks, a retired elementary school teacher, and together they have raised daughters Lindsey and Ashley, and rejoice in the gift of family, including son-in-law, David, and granddaughter Charlotte; and WHEREAS, his ministry has been marked by compassion, encouragement, steady leadership, and a deep love for the local church, reflecting Christ in both word and deed; THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the elected members of the Virginia Baptist Executive Board meeting on September 10, express our deepest gratitude and sincere appreciation to Rev. Dr. Tom Stocks for his faithful service, sacrificial leadership, and enduring commitment to the work of Christ and His Church; and we vow to support Tom and his wife Paula with our prayers as they move into a new chapter of life and ministry. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we ask the messengers of the Annual Meeting of the Baptist General Association of Virginia meeting in Virginia Beach on November 10, 2026, to offer our gratitude for the ministry of Rev. Dr. Tom Stocks.
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RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION: CRAIG WADDELL Rev. Craig Waddell has announced his intention to retire from the Baptist General Association of Virginia as International Missions Director on December 31, 2026, following 23 years of faithful service. WHEREAS, after completing his studies at Washington and Lee University, Craig served as a Journeyman missionary and ministry intern for three years in Austria, came home to complete theological education at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, then returned to Austria serving as a pastor and becoming a respected leader within the Austrian Baptist Union before accepting God’s call to serve with the Baptist General Association of Virginia; and WHEREAS, gifted with compassion, wisdom, and a deep passion for the advancement of God’s Kingdom, Craig quickly cultivated enduring relationships with international ministry partners while inspiring and equipping volunteers from across BGAV to engage faithfully in global missions; and WHEREAS, Craig has challenged and encouraged BGAV congregations to develop a broader understanding of God’s work among all peoples, continuing a shift in missional understanding from transactional mission activities toward transformational, long-term partnerships marked by mutuality, trust, and shared ministry; and WHEREAS, Craig faithfully shepherded countless individuals through long-term volunteer service opportunities, particularly through the Venturer program, resulting in life-changing experiences for participants while strengthening the ministries of our global partners; and WHEREAS, through his visionary leadership, steadfast faith, and unwavering commitment to Christ’s Great Commission, Craig has helped BGAV recognize God’s movement among the nations and has encouraged churches to participate in meaningful Kingdom work that makes disciples and proclaims the gospel of Jesus Christ; THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Baptist General Association of Virginia gives thanks to God for the faithful ministry of Craig Waddell and expresses its profound appreciation for his twenty-three years of dedicated service, leadership, and friendship; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we, the elected members of the Virginia Baptist Executive Board, meeting on September 10, 2026, extend our heartfelt gratitude to Rev. Craig Waddell and celebrate his enduring contributions to the mission and ministry of BGAV; and BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that we request the messengers of the Annual Meeting of the Baptist General Association of Virginia, gathering in Virginia Beach on November 10, 2026, to join in expressing appreciation for Rev. Craig Waddell’s faithful ministry and to offer prayers of thanksgiving for his lasting legacy and for God’s continued blessings upon him and his family in the years ahead.
16 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
NOMINATIONS TO THE VIRGINIA BAPTIST EXECUTIVE BOARD The Virginia Baptist Executive Board nominates the following persons to serve on the Virginia Baptist Executive Board: TERMS TO EXPIRE NOVEMBER 2029
Michael Duncan (Minister), Grace Hills Baptist Church, second term Michael is the pastor of Grace Hills Baptist Church in Appomattox, where he has served since 2023. He also served as pastor of Central Baptist Church in Altavista from 2005 to 2014 and on the Virginia Baptist Mission Board from 2008 to 2014. Michael earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Alabama, in 1998 and a Master of Divinity from Mercer University’s McAfee School of Theology in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2004. Kim Eskridge (Minister), First Baptist Church of Alexandria, first term Kim recently celebrated 20 years of serving First Baptist Church of Alexandria as pastor for children and was ordained to the ministry of the gospel there in 2008. She is a graduate of Leland Seminary, having previously earned a certification in children’s ministry from BGAV and a Master of Science in elementary education from Old Dominion University. Kim has served sister churches in BGAV and the NorthStar Church Network throughout her ministry. She consults with other BGAV churches as a specialist in children’s and family ministry and has taught courses in BGAV’s children’s ministry certificate program. Additionally, she has served the NorthStar Church Network as a member of the Personnel Committee and as chair of the Board of Directors. Before her call to pastoral ministry, Kim taught in Fairfax County Public Schools and directed the Weekday Preschool at First Baptist Church of Alexandria. Her passion is reaching the next generation for Christ. W. Shelton Miles III (Minister), Kedron Baptist Church, first term Shelton is a retired bivocational pastor, having served BGAV churches in Halifax, Pittsylvania, Campbell, and Wise counties. His longest and final pastorate was with First Baptist Church of Republican Grove, where he served for more than 27 years. In retirement, he is a member and deacon of Kedron Baptist Church in Gladys, where he was baptized, licensed, and ordained as a teenager. Shelton is a graduate of Carson-Newman University and attended Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Within BGAV, Shelton served as a longtime trustee of the Religious Herald; a member of the Executive Committee of the Virginia Baptist Historical Society; chair of the Religious Liberty Committee and the Resolutions Committee; and a member of the Executive Board as BGAV first vice president, president, and immediate past president. He has represented BGAV at the state Capitol, advocating on religious liberty issues. For many years, he hosted, outfitted, and guided the Virginia Baptist Ministers’ Canoe Retreats and always enjoyed immersing fellow pastors in an experience in nature (and often in the river as well). He and his wife, Jody, reside on their family farm along the Staunton River in Campbell County, where they raise beef cattle. They are the parents of three children and the grandparents of six. Michael Moore (Layperson), Gracewood Community Church, second term Michael has been a member of Gracewood Community Church in Lebanon since it was planted by Community Heights Baptist Church in 2007. He served as deacon chair and on the leadership board at Community Heights and serves as a director, small group leader, and middle school youth teacher at Gracewood. He is a graduate of the University of Virginia (B.A., 1982) and William & Mary ( J.D., 1986) and is currently a circuit court judge in the 29th Judicial Circuit, which includes Russell, Dickenson, Buchanan, and Tazewell counties. He and his wife, Julie, have two adult children. Michael has had international mission opportunities in Costa Rica, Honduras, Haiti, Tanzania, and Kenya. BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 17
Charles W. Tilley (Layperson), Richmond’s First Baptist Church, first term Charles is a principal with Quinn Evans in Richmond and holds a master’s degree in architecture from Clemson University. Throughout his career, he has developed a reputation for thoughtful problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration. An active member of Richmond’s First Baptist Church, a longtime BGAV congregation, Charles has served as a youth Sunday School teacher, deacon chair, Personnel Team chair, and member of the First Baptist Church Endowment. Since 2019, he has also served on the BGAV Extension Board. Across his professional, congregational, and denominational service, Charles brings strong leadership, a collaborative spirit, and a genuine commitment to strengthening churches and ministries. ELECTION OF VIRGINIA BAPTIST EXECUTIVE BOARD CHAIR
John Sawyer (Minister), James River Community Church John is currently serving on the Executive Board; his term expires in 2028.
18 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
2027 PROPOSED COOPERATIVE MISSIONS/ BGAV BUDGET ALLOCATION (Funds received over the budget goal will be distributed according to the contributing churches’ allocations.)
VIRGINIA MISSIONS AND MINISTRIES
2026 Budget
State Collaboratives: “Engaging our Commonwealth” • Camp Piankatank: a serene camp setting where Christian hospitality, high adventure, and relationships create an environment for spiritual growth and discipleship • Church Staff Benefit Support: providing life and disability insurance to participating pastors and ministers through GuideStone • Coaching Network: helping leaders discern where they are now and where God may be calling them next • Congregational Field Strategists: dedicated support and personalized assistance to help local churches, pastors, and leaders network together and thrive in their ministry context • Eagle Eyrie Conference Center: welcoming churches, ministries, and families to a Blue Ridge mountaintop setting for retreat, renewal, and spiritual growth • Emergency Assistance for Ministers: providing support and resources for renewal, restoration, and revitalization to pastors and ministers experiencing mental, economic, and personal hardships • Impact Missions: connecting churches and leaders with hands-on mission opportunities as they seek to serve Christ and thrive as disciples throughout the Commonwealth and beyond • Kairos Initiative: connecting young adults and college students to the heart of the local church through leadership development and vocational discernment toward missional living National Collaboratives: “Extending Our Witness” • Fresh Expressions: providing opportunities for congregations and leaders to reach unengaged people by developing new Christian communities and transforming congregations through innovative mission practices from abroad • Missio Alliance: creating a safe space for leaders to discern together what faithful witness to Christ looks like amid today’s cultural challenges • Uptick: investing in a generation of Jesus shaped leaders of today so they can be equipped to lead effectively and effect change in their communities tomorrow • V3 Church Planting Movement: a grassroots church planting movement with the practices of boundary crossing mission, locally-rooted presence, life-forming discipleship, and tight-knit communities in the Commonwealth and beyond Global Collaboratives: “Joining God’s Mission Worldwide” • Partnership Missions: connecting churches, leaders, and mission partners to engage and impact communities and extend the Gospel through strategic global partnerships Mission Empowerment: “Stewarding Collaboration” • Executive Director’s & Treasurer’s Offices: stewarding and leading the mission and ministries of BGAV alongside the Executive Board, Mission Council, standing committees, churches, and partners to administer the vision and work of BGAV • Marketing and Information Technology Offices: connecting church leaders to the resources of BGAV through news delivery in print and digital formats, customized marketing and demographic reports, promotion of events, BGAV annual meeting, and technical solutions • Facilities Support: maintaining and improving BGAV properties Total Virginia Missions and Ministries
2027 Proposed Budget 1,820,588
300,512
128,597 1,950,303
4,750,000*
4,200,000
100 1 31,000 58,000 100 100 34,500 100 245,000 25,500 100 12,500 22,500 429,500
100 1 28,868 54,012 100 100 32,127 100 228,155 23,746 100 11,640 20,952 400,000
VIRGINIA COOPERATIVE MISSIONS TOTAL
5,179,500
4,600,000
WORLD MISSION CAUSES
2,014,250
1,788,889
TOTAL COOPERATIVE MISSIONS BUDGET
7,193,750
6,388,889
BGAV PARTNERS IN VIRGINIA Averett University Baptist Extension Board Bluefield University Center for Baptist Heritage and Studies EverBless Foundation Fork Union Military Academy GraceInside Hargrave Military Academy HerMission (formerly WMUV) HopeTree Family Services LifeSpire of Virginia Oak Hill Academy Virginia Baptist Historical Society Total BGAV Partners in Virginia
* 2026 Virginia Missions and Ministries Allocations: Mission Development $948,202; Leadership Development $328,737; Church Development $643,854; Community Development $621,943; Resource Development $2,207,264
BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 19
How to Choose Your Church’s Mission Giving COOPERATIVE MISSIONS
$
CHOOSE A GIVING DESIGNATION FOR YOUR CHURCH (listed alphabetically)
BGAV
BGAV + ASCENT
100% to BGAV
72% to BGAV 28% to Ascent ministries
BGAV + PARTNERS
72% to BGAV 28% to partner ministries and initiatives across the globe
BGAV + SBC
72% to BGAV 28% to Southern Baptist Convention ministries
CAN’T PICK JUST ONE?
CUSTOM
Customized giving between BGAV, Ascent, Partners, and/or SBC decided by your church (must file letter with Treasurer’s Office)
2027 PROPOSED WORLD MISSION CAUSES BGAV
BGAV + ASCENT MINISTRIES
100% to BGAV
72% to BGAV and 28% to Ascent Distributed according to the Ascent Ministry
BGAV (VA Cooperative Missions)
100.00% 100.00%
BGAV Ascent
72.00% 28.00% 100.00%
BGAV + PARTNER MINISTRIES
BGAV + SBC MINISTRIES
72% to BGAV and 28% to Partner Ministries Distributed according to BGAV Partner Ministries budget
72% to BGAV and 28% to SBC Ministries Distributed according to the Southern Baptist Convention budget
Kingdom Advance New Mission Initiatives Reaching Virginia Missions Development & Relief Leland Seminary Baptist World Alliance Ministerial Educational Fund Baptist Joint Committee Ministering to Ministers Foundation BGAV News & Resources
International Mission Board North American Mission Board SBC Seminaries (Gateway, Midwestern, New Orleans, Southeastern, Southern, Southwestern) SBC Operating Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission Historical Library and Archives
28.00% 20.00% 14.00% 11.00% 10.00% 6.00% 5.00% 4.00% 2.00% 100.00%
51.00% 22.64% 21.83% 2.65% 1.64% 0.24% 100.00%
2027 COOPERATIVE MISSIONS BUDGET ALLOCATION RECOMMENDATIONS
1. That the 2027 Virginia Baptist Cooperative Missions Budget Allocation totaling $6,388,889 be adopted. 2. That the Treasurer be authorized to distribute all funds received after January 8, 2027, in accordance with the 2027 budget. 20 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
2027 PROPOSED COOPERATIVE MISSIONS GIVING PLANS BGAV
This means that 100% of your church’s contributions go to support BGAV missions and ministries. Your giving helps our missions, ministries, and partners across Virginia to advance the Kingdom. You may also consider supporting other ministries in addition to BGAV that align with the mission and values of your congregation. To allocate a portion of your giving to one of these groups, choose one of the following giving options: BGAV + ASCENT MINISTRIES
This means that 72% of your giving goes to support BGAV’s Cooperative Missions and 28% goes to support initiatives of the Ascent Movement around rural churches, evangelism and discipleship, leadership development, and mission engagement. BGAV + PARTNER MINISTRIES
This means that 72% of your giving goes to support BGAV’s Cooperative Missions and 28% goes to support national and international ministry partners and initiatives: • Kingdom Advance New Mission Initiatives • Reaching Virginia • Mission Development & Relief • Leland Seminary • Baptist World Alliance
• Ministerial Education Fund • Baptist Joint Committee • Ministering to Ministers Foundation • BGAV News & Resources
BGAV + SBC MINISTRIES
This means that 72% of your giving goes to support BGAV’s Cooperative Missions and 28% goes to support initiatives and ministries of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC). Of course, your church may want to support more than one of these ministry groups! If that is the case, choose the giving option below: CUSTOM GIVING
This means your giving designations are customized by your church between BGAV, Ascent Ministries, Partner Ministries, and/or SBC Ministries. Your church must file a letter of explanation with the Treasurer’s Office to create a Custom Giving designation
BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 21
Note: See pages 19–20 for overall proposed 2027 budget.
2027 PROPOSED COOPERATIVE MISSIONS BUDGET ALLOCATION
$6,388,889
BGAV PARTNERS IN VIRGINIA
3
66%
$4,200,000
2
$4,200,000
VIRGINIA MISSIONS & MINISTRIES
1
Chart Title
VIRGINIA MISSIONS & MINISTRIES
$400,000
6%
BGAV PARTNERS IN VIRGINIA Averett University Baptist Extension Board Bluefield University Center for Baptist Heritage and Studies EverBless Foundation Fork Union Military Academy GraceInside Hargrave Military Academy HerMission (formerly WMUV) HopeTree Family Services LifeSpire of Virginia Oak Hill Academy Virginia Baptist Historical Society
22 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
WORLD MISSION CAUSES
$1,788,889
28%
WORLD MISSION CAUSES BGAV + ASCENT MINISTRIES BGAV + PARTNER MINISTRIES BGAV + SBC MINISTRIES
COOPERATIVE MISSIONS BUDGET ALLOCATION BGAV MINISTRY RESOURCES SPECIAL OFFERINGS (ESTIMATED)
$6,388,889 $8,023,853 $3,524,274
2027 TOTAL ANTICIPATED GIVING
BGAV MINISTRY RESOURCES Designated Gifts Camp & Conference Center Registration Revenue Program Revenue Other Income
$17,937,016
2027 PROPOSED BGAV MINISTRY EMPHASIS
$4,206,544
$12,223,853
$2,811,672 $777,642 $227,995
National Collaboratives
$8,023,853
18%
State Collaboratives: “Engaging our Commonwealth” BGAV Scholarship Funds Camp Piankatank Church Staff Benefit Support Coaching Network Congregational Field Strategists Eagle Eyrie Conference Center Emergency Assistance for Ministers Impact Missions Kairos Initiative
State Collaboratives
52%
Global Collaboratives Mission Empowerment
28%
Mission Empowerment: “Stewarding Collaboration”
National Collaboratives: “Extending Our Witness” Ascent Fresh Expressions Missio Alliance Uptick V3 Church Planting Movement
2%
Global Collaboratives: “Joining God’s Mission Worldwide” Partnership Missions
Executive Director’s Office Treasurer’s Office Marketing Information Technology Facilities Support BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 23
2026 ALMA HUNT OFFERING FOR VIRGINIA MISSION ALLOCATIONS FOR THE BAPTIST GENERAL ASSOCIATION OF VIRGINIA TOTAL GOAL: $800,000
1. Church Planting (North America and International).......................................................$100,000 2.
Deaf Ministry................................................................................................................................ $2,500
3. Church and Community Mission...........................................................................................$40,000 4. Youth Mission Focus..................................................................................................................$25,000 5. Disaster Response Ministry......................................................................................................$30,000 6. International Ministries.............................................................................................................$45,000 7. Virginia Baptist Historical Society............................................................................................ $7,500 8.
Prison Ministry in Virginia........................................................................................................ $5,000
9. BGAV Chaplaincy Endorsement and Training................................................................... $20,000 10. Piankatank Camp Scholarships.................................................................................................. $5,000 11. HopeTree Development Disabilities Ministries...................................................................$20,000 BGAV Allocations............................................................................................................................$300,000 HerMission Allocations..................................................................................................................$500,000 TOTAL ALLOCATIONS...............................................................................................$800,000
24 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
2026 BGAV BOOK OF REPORTS
OFFICIAL REPORTS OF BGAV BOARDS AND COMMITTEES • COMMITTEE ON BOARDS AND COMMITTEES • NOMINATIONS TO THE COMMITTEE ON BOARDS AND COMMITTEES • NOMINATIONS TO THE VIRGINIA BAPTIST MISSION COUNCIL • CHRISTIAN LIFE COMMITTEE • PROGRAM COMMITTEE • RELIGIOUS LIBERTY COMMITTEE • RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE • SCHOLARSHIPS AND MINISTERIAL EDUCATION FUNDS COMMITTEE
BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 25
COMMITTEE ON BOARDS AND COMMITTEES OFFICIAL REPORT
The Committee on Boards & Committees, in accordance with the charge given to us by the Baptist General Association of Virginia, has spent the last several months working in partnership with local pastors, lay leaders, associations, and BGAV staff to provide leadership that represents the diversity of gifts and experience that is necessary for the ongoing Kingdom work to which Virginia Baptists are committed. As we have talked with so many people all around our state this year, we have been reminded of how rich the ministry of the BGAV is and how blessed we are with the Spirit-given gift of cooperation. We would like to thank all of those who brought recommendations to our committee for consideration. We could not accomplish our task without your invaluable guidance and input. We would also like to thank the BGAV staff for their commitment to ministry and missions and for always standing ready to support our work as a committee. We are deeply grateful for each individual who has agreed to serve on a committee or board representing the BGAV. As you read over the slate of nominees, please take a moment to offer a prayer of thanksgiving for their willingness to serve and a petition for our Lord’s wisdom and grace to guide them in their tasks. The Committee on Boards & Committees presents this slate of nominees to the gathered assembly of the Baptist General Association of Virginia and moves the acceptance of these nominations. In Christ, Todd Latham, Committee Chair Caleb Bittler Alan Buchanan David Donahue Joyce Jones Rachel Pierce RG Rowland Bryan Taliaferro W. Shelton Miles III (By Virtue of Office - Past President) Chief Stephen R. Adkins (By Virtue of Office – President) Wayne D. Faison (By Virtue of Office – Executive Director)
26 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
I. BGAV STANDING COMMITTEES
Committee on Christian Life Terms to expire November 2029 Bethany Carr (L) Highlands Fellowship Abingdon
Abingdon 24211
Justin Moser (M) First Baptist Church Waynesboro
Waynesboro 22980
Mary Peterson (L) Ox Hill Church Chantilly
Aldie 20105
Committee on Memorial Terms to expire November 2029 Arlie Boyd (L) Highlands Fellowship Abingdon
Abingdon 24211
SaraAnne Burgess (M) Woodland Heights Church Richmond 23294 Richmond Carolyn Landrum (L) Winn’s Creek Church Halifax
Halifax 24558
Committee on Program Terms to expire November 2029 Tonya Kinder (L) Rosedale Church Rosedale
Lebanon 24266
Michael Lacey (L) Memorial Church Staunton
Staunton 24401
Bud Livers (L) King’s Grant Church Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach 23452
Committee on Religious Liberty Terms to expire November 2029 Rick Hudock (M) Beale Memorial Church Tappahannock
Tappahannock 22560
Debbie Yancy (L) Memorial Church Staunton
Fishersville 22939
BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 27
TBD (M) Committee on Resolutions Terms to expire November 2029 Patricia Crump (L) New Hope Baptist Church Skipwith
Red Oak 23964
Edward Fisher (M) Riverside Baptist Church Chilhowie
North Tazewell 24630
Mary Lou Hornby (L) Cool Spring Baptist Church Mechanicsville
Mechanicsville 23116
Scholarships & Ministerial Education Funds Terms to expire November 2029 Bill Bryon (M) Abingdon Church Abingdon Carolyn Demery (L) Bethlehem Baptist Church Richmond
Abingdon 24211
Uma John (M) Manassas Baptist Church Manassas
Manassas 20109
Glen Allen 23060
II. THE FOLLOWING TO BE DULY ELECTED BY THE GENERAL ASSOCIATION
Ministers Relief Fund Georgia Harrington (L) St. Paul’s Church Richmond
Midlothian 23112
Tom Hayden (L) Mount Vernon Church Glen Allen
Glen Allen 23059
III. THE FOLLOWING TO BE APPROVED BY THE BAPTIST GENERAL ASSOCIATION, ELECTION TO BE MADE BY THE RESPECTIVE INSTITUTIONS AND AGENCIES
GraceInside Term to expire 2029 Caroline Taminger (M) Freemason Street Church Norfolk Fork Union Military Academy None needed this year. 28 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
Virginia Beach 23455
Hargrave Military Academy None needed this year. Oak Hill Academy Terms to expire 2033 Dennis Gambill (L) Young’s Chapel Church Mouth of Wilson
Sparta, NC 28675
Carl Rosberg (L) FBC Waynesboro Waynesboro
Waynesboro 22980
Averett University Term to expire 2028 Donald Merricks (L) Chatham Church Chatham
Danville 24540
Bluefield College Term to expire 2030 Elizabeth Keene (L)
Green Valley Church (to serve a second term)
John Leland Center for Theological Studies Term to expire 2029 Austin Williams (M) Mulberry Grove Dillwyn
Abingdon 24210
Dillwyn 23936
Baptist Extension Board Term to expire 2029 April Morrison (L) Memorial Church Staunton
Verona 24482
Baptist Extension Board Term to expire 2031 Tim Burnett (L) Woodland Church Arrington 22922 Arrington (to serve a second term) Angelee Godbold (L) FBC Charlottesville (West Main) Charlottesville (to serve a second term)
Charlottesville 22903
BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 29
Ned Stephenson (L) Beale Memorial Church Tappahannock
Tappahannock 22560
Center for Baptist Heritage and Studies Term to expire 2030 Richard Martin (L) Huguenot Road Church North Chesterfield (to serve a second term)
North Chesterfield 23236
HopeTree Family Services Term to expire 2028 Lucianne Warren (L) Grace Hills Church Appomattox
Red House 23963
EverBless Foundation Terms to expire 2030 Ann Brown (L) Gretna Church Gretna
Gretna 24557
W. Edward W. Clingman, Jr. Broadus Church Mechanicsville (to serve a second term)
Mechanicsville 23111
Chris Luper (M) Young’s Chapel Church Mouth of Wilson Patrice Stokes (L) Saint Paul’s Church Richmond (to serve a second term)
Mouth of Wilson 24363
LifeSpire of Virginia None needed this year. Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty None needed this year. Baptist World Alliance None needed this year.
30 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
Henrico 23231
NOMINATIONS TO THE COMMITTEE ON BOARDS AND COMMITTEES Nominations from the BGAV President and 2 Vice-Presidents Terms to expire 2029 Herbert Browning (M) River Road Church Richmond
Midlothian 23112
Betty Clement (M) Second Baptist Church Petersburg
Petersburg 23805
Colleen Frazier (L) First Baptist Church Front Royal
Woodstock 22664
BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 31
NOMINATIONS TO THE VIRGINIA BAPTIST MISSION COUNCIL The regions nominate the following persons to serve on the Virginia Baptist Mission Council. CAPITAL REGION
2029 Greg Kitts (Minister) Central Baptist Church 1st Term, term to expire 2029 Greg is a 1995 graduate of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of Green Lakes Baptist Church in Portsmouth, Virginia (1996–2001); Black Creek Baptist Church in Franklin, Virginia (2001–2017); and Dorcas Wills Memorial Baptist Church in Trinity, Texas (2017–2025). He has served as pastor of Central Baptist Church in Church Road, Virginia, since 2025. Greg is married to Suzanne and is the father of four and grandfather of two. Jennifer Mullins (Minister) Gayton Baptist Church 2nd Term, term to expire 2029 Jennifer is the Youth/Young Adult & Discipleship Pastor at Gayton Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia. She holds a B.A. in Religion and Church Ministries from Averett University and an M.A. in Christian Education from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and is pursuing a doctorate from Newburgh Theological Seminary. Her skills include leadership, organization, preaching and speaking, leader training, vision, relationship building, and communication. Richard Sandberg (Minister) Corinth Baptist Church 2nd Term, term to expire 2029 Richard has served as a pastor since 2008. He is a graduate of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary with a master’s degree in Christian apologetics. Richard has served with BGAV through Impact Virginia and Impact Disaster Response and as a trainer for Darkness to Light sexual abuse response training. He previously served on the Mission Council representing the Northern Region and is currently pastor of Corinth Baptist Church. Richard is married to Ashton. TBD TBD
32 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
CENTRAL/VALLEY REGION
2028 Jeanette McCloud (Minister) Bybee’s Road Baptist Church 1st Term, term to expire 2028 (filling an unexpired term of Steve Nethery) Jeanette previously served on the Mission Council and has long appreciated BGAV’s missions and affiliations. She graduated from Leland School of Ministry in 2015 with a diploma in theology and currently serves as youth leader at Bybee’s Road Baptist Church. Jeanette was ordained to the ministry by Bybee’s Road in 2023 and occasionally provides pulpit supply. She also serves as vice moderator of the Central Virginia Baptist Association. 2029 Debby Ashley (Layperson) Calvary Baptist Church 2nd Term, term to expire 2029 Debby has been an active member of Calvary Baptist Church for more than 50 years, serving in numerous leadership and teaching roles. She previously served on the Board of Trustees for WMU of Virginia and the BGAV Mission Council. She currently serves as an Awana T&T leader, VBS teacher, Church Council member, and WMU director, a role she has held for more than 20 years. Debby is a graduate of Mary Baldwin College with a B.A. in business administration and a minor in marketing and management. She has three adult children and nine grandchildren. Karen Blackburn (Layperson) Bedford Baptist Church 1st Term, term to expire 2029 Karen was born and raised in Bluefield, West Virginia, and became a Christian at age 11. She pursued a career in nursing, earning a master’s degree and becoming a midwife. Through volunteer mission trips, Karen felt called to full-time missions and later earned an M.Div. from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. In 2002, Karen was appointed by the International Mission Board and served in eastern Russia, Macedonia, and Serbia. She returned to the United States at the end of 2015 to care for her mother and later moved to Virginia. Her early involvement in GAs and Acteens, along with local and international missions, helped shape her lifelong commitment to missions. Manny Hernandez (Minister) Clifton Forge Baptist Church 1st Term, term to expire 2029 By God’s grace, Manny came to faith in Jesus Christ in 1971. He earned a B.A. in communication and leadership from Trinity International University and a master’s degree in biblical studies from Calvary Baptist Theological Seminary. Manny has served churches in Arkansas, Mississippi, Florida, and North Carolina, including in revitalization ministry. In September 2024, he was called as pastor of Clifton Forge Baptist Church, where he serves as a revitalization pastor. Manny considers the opportunity to serve on the BGAV Mission Council a great honor. Gloria Newton (Layperson) Antioch Baptist Church 1st Term, term to expire 2029 Gloria is a lifelong member of Antioch Baptist Church in Scottsville, Virginia, where she has served in numerous roles, including Acteens leader, youth leader, Vacation Bible School director, and teacher. She currently serves as church clerk, a Church Council member, and an adult Sunday School teacher. For the past five years, Gloria has participated in regional outreach through Hope for Appalachia mission trips and the Bland Mission Center in cooperation with the James River Baptist Association. She is a graduate of Averett University and has two daughters and five grandchildren. BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 33
Austin Williams (Minister) Mulberry Baptist Church 2nd Term, term to expire 2029 Austin joined the staff of Mulberry Grove Baptist Church in October 2020 as associate pastor and transitioned to senior pastor in January 2023. Before serving as senior pastor, Austin was director of Baptist Collegiate Ministries at Longwood University. He holds a B.S. in business management from Virginia Commonwealth University and is pursuing an M.A. in ministry leadership from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. NORTHERN REGION
2029 Michael Gunter (Minister) Concord Baptist Church 1st Term, term to expire 2029 Michael is a graduate of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and has served Baptist churches in South Carolina, Wyoming, Tennessee, and Virginia. He served as an associate pastor at Gayton Baptist Church from 2007 to 2018 and began his ministry at Concord Baptist Church in 2020 as interim pastor, becoming fulltime pastor in 2023. Michael and his wife have two children and four grandchildren. Habacuc Diaz Lopez (Minister) Primera Iglesia Bautista Maranatha 1st Term, term to expire 2029 Habacuc was born in Mexico and is married to Ana Luisa Macias de Diaz. They have two children and three grandchildren. He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond and has been a pastor for 42 years. His ministry experience also includes service as an adjunct professor at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México and Leland Seminary and as a Latino Network coordinator. Judy Montag (Layperson) Alum Spring Baptist Church 1st Term, term to expire 2029 Judy was raised in Madison County, Virginia, and made her profession of faith at Vacation Bible School at age 16. She currently attends Alum Spring Baptist Church in Culpeper, where she serves as treasurer. Judy holds a master’s degree in technology management with a CIO certificate from George Mason University, a B.S. in chemistry from James Madison University, and an A.S. from Germanna Community College. She retired from L3Harris in 2021 after a career spanning quality, environmental, and safety work. During the final 20 years of her career, she worked as an engineer, quality assurance manager, and auditor for Department of Defense companies. She also contributed to journal articles, conference papers, and workshops in these fields. Tom Sutterfield (Minister) Oakland Baptist Church 1st Term, term to expire 2029 Tom is a retired businessman who spent 36 years in the aluminum industry in corporate management. He earned a B.S. in management and an MBA from Virginia Commonwealth University and completed additional studies in advanced manufacturing and business management. He was ordained as a deacon by Monument Heights Baptist Church in 1988.Tom is married to Becky. They have a daughter and granddaughter; their son died of pediatric cancer at age four. Tom and Becky have been longtime volunteers with Goochland Cares and have been active in community service in Goochland County. Tom has participated regularly in mission trips with Carpenters for Christ. At Oakland Baptist Church, he has served as a deacon and Sunday School director and is active with the Goshen Baptist Association and its pulpit supply ministry. In November 2025, Oakland ordained him to the gospel ministry and licensed him to preach. He recently completed a 13-month interim pastorate at a Goshen church. 34 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
Abbie Tolbert (Minister) Church at Clarendon 1st Term, term to expire 2029 Abbie is a native of Killeen, Texas. She earned a B.B.A. from Baylor University with a double major in entrepreneurship and nonprofit marketing and an M.Div. from George W. Truett Theological Seminary. In 2020, she founded Imprfct Minister, a ministry focused on spiritual, mental, and emotional healing from trauma through teaching about God’s passionate love and restorative power. Abbie is executive associate and registrar at Leland Seminary and serves as an associate minister and Christian education director at the Church at Clarendon in Arlington, Virginia.
SOUTHSIDE REGION
2029 Jonathan Hilliard (Minister) Moffett Memorial Baptist Church 2nd Term, term to expire 2029 Jonathan accepted the Lord at age eight and was ordained to ministry in 2004. He has pastored three BGAV churches and participated in numerous mission trips. He is honored to be considered for service on the Mission Council. Jonathan is married to Bethany, and they have two children. Linda Mays (Layperson) Grace Hills Baptist Church 2nd Term, term to expire 2029 Linda has been active in WMU and other missions for more than 40 years. She has twice served as associational WMU director and currently chairs the Associational Mission Team. At Grace Hills Baptist Church, where she is a charter member, she serves as missions director, Mission Friends leader, an ordained deacon, and Sunday School teacher. Linda is married to Monte, and they have two sons and four grandchildren. Charlie Shaeff (Layperson) Calvary Baptist Church, Lynchburg 1st Term, term to expire 2029 Charlie is a retired schoolteacher who taught high school for 30 years and served as an adjunct college instructor for 16 years. He holds a degree in biology. A baptized believer for nearly 70 years, Charlie helped found Calvary Baptist Church, where he now serves as moderator and has held numerous roles, including ordained deacon. He served two terms on the former Virginia Baptist Mission Board and chaired its Committee on Glocal Missions. Charlie has participated in volunteer mission trips to Kentucky, the Bahamas, Grenada, Moldova, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic and has attended meetings of the Baptist World Alliance and European Baptist Federation. He looks forward to the possibility of returning to BGAV missions work. Charles Swanson (Minister) Melville Avenue Baptist Church 1st Term, term to expire 2029 Charles has served as pastor of Melville Avenue Baptist Church in Danville, Virginia, for 30 years and also serves as music director. He has been active in associational leadership and local mission work. A retired English teacher, Charles taught at Gretna High School, as an adjunct professor, and at the Academy for Engineering and Technology in Danville. He holds master’s degrees from Southeastern Seminary, Radford University, and Queens University of Charlotte and edits the online magazine Flowers of the Field. He and his wife have three grown children and seven grandchildren. TBD
BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 35
SOUTHWEST REGION
2029 Doug Ballew (Minister) Green Valley Baptist Church 1st Term, term to expire 2029 Doug grew up in the Asheville, North Carolina, area and came to know Christ in 1981. A year later, he felt called to ministry. He earned a Bachelor of Ministry from Covington Theological Seminary and has served in active ministry for 44 years, pastoring churches in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. In 2006, Doug planted Grace Fellowship Baptist Church in Pulaski County. He currently serves as pastor of Green Valley Baptist Church in Lebanon, Virginia. Mike Hatfield (Minister) Chatham Heights Baptist Church 2nd Term, term to expire 2029 Mike has served as pastor of Chatham Heights Baptist Church since 2000. He and his wife, Susan, are from Danville, Kentucky, and have two children, Sean and Sarah. Mike earned a B.A. from Eastern Kentucky University and both an M.Div. and doctorate from Southern Seminary in Louisville. During his ministry, Mike has served churches in Kentucky and Virginia, including New Hope Baptist Church, Shakertown Baptist Church, North Pamunkey Baptist Church, Chatham Heights Baptist Church, and First Baptist Church of Martinsville. Donna Hutchinson (Layperson) Wise Baptist Church 1st Term, term to expire 2029 Donna grew up at First Baptist Church of Norton, where early involvement in GAs, Acteens, and other church activities shaped her commitment to faith, service, and missions. A graduate of Berea College, she returned to Virginia and worked as a police officer while also serving for eight years as choir director at First Baptist Norton. She later joined Wise Baptist Church, serving in the choir, teaching Sunday School, and participating on the Missions Committee. Donna has helped plan annual mission trips for more than 15 years, including seven years as trip administrator. She also serves with the Wise Baptist Association, on the board of Brumley Cove Baptist Camp, and as music director at Wise Baptist Church. PJ Johnson (Minister) Uplift Church 1st Term, term to expire 2029 PJ is the bivocational pastor of Uplift Church in Weber City, Virginia, which he and his wife planted in 2012. Vocationally, he serves as network administrator for Scott County Schools. He has been in ministry for 21 years. Shawn White First Baptist Church of Bluefield 2nd Term, term to expire 2029 Shawn came to the Bluefield area to serve at Bluefield University in 2009. Previously, Shawn and family lived in Scotland while Shawn pursued doctoral studies in Hebrew Bible at the University of Edinburgh. Ordained to Christian ministry in 1999, Shawn served Edith Avenue United Baptist Church in Saint John, New Brunswick, for eight years and later served as an interim volunteer preacher and teacher at several Virginia churches. Shawn currently volunteers as pastor at First Baptist Church of Bluefield. Shawn and Beverly have been married since 1997 and have two sets of twins, all of whom are university students.
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TIDEWATER REGION
2029 Ben Caldwell (Minister) Orcutt Baptist Church 2nd Term, term to expire 2029 Ben grew up in Pensacola, Florida, where he accepted Christ and first felt called to ministry. He earned a B.A. in religion from Samford University, an M.Div. from Beeson Divinity School, and a D.Min. from Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond, where his doctoral work focused on faith development through small groups. Ben served churches in Birmingham in youth, children, education, and associate pastoral ministry before being called as senior pastor of Corinth Baptist Church in New Kent, Virginia, where he served for 18 years. He now serves as senior pastor of Orcutt Baptist Church in Newport News. His ministry passions include discipleship and helping believers grow in biblical living. Ben is married to Leslie, managing editor of communications for the International Mission Board. They have four young adult children: Olivia, Vika, Adam, and Eric. Samuel (Alex) Crocker (Minister) Surry Baptist Church 2nd Term, term to expire 2029 Alex is pastor of Surry Baptist Church. After graduating from Smithfield High School in 2004, he enlisted in the Marines and served two tours of duty in Iraq. He earned a B.A. in history from Old Dominion University in 2015 and an M.Div. from Virginia Beach Theological Seminary in 2019, where he developed a passion for rural ministry. Surry Baptist Church called him as pastor in October 2019, and he continues to serve there today. Andrew Garnett (Minister) Hampton Baptist Church 2nd Term, term to expire 2029 Andrew is pastor of Hampton Baptist Church in Hampton, Virginia. He enjoys hiking, reading, traveling, and visiting historical sites. He is married and has two daughters. Robert Lee (Minister) Collinswood-Agape Baptist Church 2nd Term, term to expire 2029 Robert is a native of Norfolk, Virginia, and served in the U.S. Air Force before beginning a 33-year career at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. He accepted Christ at Centennial Baptist Church in 1983. Robert and his wife, Valerie, have two adult sons, Daniel and Matthew. Robert joined Fairwood-Agape Baptist Church in 1992, was licensed to preach in 1995, and was ordained in 2001. He became senior pastor in 2002 and continued in that role after Fairwood-Agape merged with Collinswood Baptist Church in 2019 to form Collinswood-Agape Baptist Church. He retired as senior pastor in June 2026. He has served as an adjunct chaplain at Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, participated in mission trips to South Africa and Romania, and served through the Portsmouth Baptist Association, The Bridge Network of Churches, and BGAV boards and committees. Robert has completed ministry studies through Boyce Bible College and Roanoke Theological Seminary and additional coursework in biblical studies at Angelos Bible College. In 2023, he received an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Providence Bible College & Theological Seminary. TBD
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CHRISTIAN LIFE COMMITTEE OFFICIAL REPORT
Many congregations across our state have quietly learned to avoid their most controversial conversations as they have grown afraid of the divisive and church-splitting arguments that all too often follow. Silence on these issues can often feel like the safer, more peaceable, and even more loving option. However, not addressing them often directly comes at the cost of a tension that only compounds over time rather than disappearing. As our committee reviewed the topics suggested, we found that a striking number revolved around one central question: “How do we deal with disagreements in the church around issues of genuine importance in a Christ-like way?” This report is an attempt to honor that question. We are not attempting to resolve every dispute that is rooted within this topic, but rather provide the resource of a spiritual foundation in how to disagree well. The topics discussed for consideration by this committee have made it clear just how diverse, complex, and pressing these issues have become. Members sponsored conversations ranging from the growing normalization of euthanasia around the world to the growing rate of domestic violence within the country. Others pointed to the prevalence of online gambling or how we should discuss various international wars. Several pointed to the growing tension around sexuality, tolerance, and the role of the church in our political landscape. These are not small disagreements, and the committee does not intend to minimize any one of them by setting them aside. Rather the goal is to exemplify that each of these issues asks for the church to simultaneously hold fast to a Godly conviction of what is true while maintaining strong roots in a genuine, costly love for the people on the other side of the disagreement. This is the tension that the committee’s report is attempting to address. What Does the Bible Say About Handling Disagreement? Scripture is full of guidance as to how to tackle disagreement within the church, offering not a path towards avoidance, but instead advocating a spiritual posture and biblical process for having these more contentious conversations. 1. Philippians 2:1-11 (NIV) Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledges that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. This is perhaps the greatest point of reference for all action and conversation. This depiction of what it looks like to model our lives after Christ shows us how to be sacrificial in dealing with one another, and how to always move toward unity grounded in servanthood. In the most divisive of conversations, we must root ourselves in humility and allow that to assist us in our discernment of engaging in the confrontation. 2. 2 Timothy 2:23-25 (NIV) Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth... This is good guidance for leaders when navigating difficult conversations: not every conversation or situation merits engaging. We must be able to discern which topics need to be addressed and then do so with kindness. Debates are not the time for public admonishments, but the Bible instead lays out a clear path for gracious instruction. 38 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
3. Matthew 18:15-22 (NIV) “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector. “Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” These verses lay out an order of operations in handling disagreement. The goal isn’t to win: it is to correct and reconcile. In this model, there is no space for gossip. Christians deal in direct, kind confrontation only. Although Jesus calls for harsh lines to be drawn from those who refuse correction or reconciliation, he also reminds Peter that if that person should come around, we are to forgive and restore them endlessly. 4. Ephesians 4:14-15 (NIV) Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. These conversations can only be successful if they are rooted in an earnest desire to direct ourselves towards God’s light. We must not be deceived by worldly teachings or ideas, but instead open our hearts to others who may be speaking the truth into us. Test everything by the merit of Christ, and should you fall short in some way, be willing to be corrected in love to grow in Christ. 5. James 1:19-21 (NIV) My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. This sets the guidelines for healthy conversation: quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. This is where many good intentioned disagreements fall apart. Where ego and anger take precedent over humility and love, there is no chance for productive discourse. All actions should be guided by gentleness and kindness. 6. Philippians 4:5 (NIV) Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Quite simply, we should be known for our gentleness. Healthy conversation requires it. 7. 2 Corinthians 13:11-13 (NIV) Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All God’s people here send their greetings. Paul’s final words to the Church in Corinth usher them towards unity and peace. This is important considering he used all the letter before this to address their points of division! Disagreement and tough conversation don’t have to be avoided to share life in faith well: they just have to be embraced with a desire to grow deeper in Christ and closer as a community. What Are Practical Next Steps? In addition to the scriptural foundation, the committee wanted to elevate three accessible resources that are alleviating some of the burden placed on church leaders to orchestrate these conversations. We hope these practical guides for engaging communities in difficult areas might be able to function as a starting point for various congregations across the state. 1. Living Room Conversations – An insightful resource for taking up an important conversation with guides to discussion topics of all varieties. While this resource is not inherently faith-based, it sits very well alongside the BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 39
second resource and is an asset in assisting congregations in diving deeper into their faith. https://livingroomconversations.org/ 2. Covenant for Conversation – This resource from the Conference of Baptist Ministers in Massachusetts is a good baseline for charitable conversation among church leaders and members. These rules are rooted in a spirit of concern for the other and a valuing of the image of God at work in them and allow for passionate conversation alongside mutual respect. https://conferenceofbaptistministers.com/covenant-for-conversation-1 3. The Center for Healthy Churches – From how to move on after a pastor departs, to how to manage a potential church split, this library of online resources guides churches through the difficulties associated with disagreements in the congregation. https://chchurches.org/church-conflict-resolution-tools/ Conclusion This report will not resolve every conflict within the churches of the BGAV in the years ahead, nor was that its design. Our hope is that this might instead act as a spiritual foundation and reminder that scripture does not ask our congregations to silently avoid conflict; rather, it commands us to be both honest and loving when engaging each other in prayerful discourse over differences of opinion. When disagreements come, may we rest faithfully on the promises of God’s grace and handle each conversation with humility, gentleness, and kindness. Respectfully Submitted, Christian Esleck, Chair Roger Austin Keith Robinson Jay Russ Josh Beeler Tony Reynozo Alan Adkins Ex-officio: Stephen Adkins, President, BGAV Wayne Faison, Executive Director, BGAV
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PROGRAM COMMITTEE OFFICIAL REPORT
The Program Committee is responsible for preparing the order of business for the annual meeting of the Baptist General Association of Virginia and assuring that worship is emphasized during the meeting. We are grateful to the city of Virginia Beach for their wonderful hospitality. Our theme for this year is Heart for the Not Yet, based on Acts 17:6b: “’These people who have been turning the world upside down have come here also.’” Our main speaker is Miriam Swanson, with Alan Hirsch and Rick Warren speaking on Tuesday afternoon. Taylor Vancil of Second Baptist Church, Richmond, will lead our worship, with special guests, the David Esleck Trio. New this year is a BGAV-wide art exhibit, Art For the Not Yet, where churches and individuals have created art to help us all pray, and dream about God’s heart for all people. We hope you will take time to experience this unique aspect of our annual meeting. It is our prayer that our time will encourage you to go back to your communities and “turn the world upside down” with God’s love and heart for the not yet. The Program Committee makes the following Motion: 1. that the program, as printed, be adopted as the agenda for the 2026 meeting of the Baptist General Association of Virginia 2. that the times on the program are indicated merely as a guide 3. that to expedite discussion, debate on all matters will be limited to three minutes per speaker, and that speakers, pro and con, be alternated 4. that future dates and sites for the Annual Meeting be affirmed as: • November 8-10, 2027 in the Capitol Region, at Main Street Station, Richmond • November 13-15, 2028 in the Northern Virginia Region • November 2029 in the Southwest Virginia Region Respectfully submitted, Beth Anderson and Alan Miller, Co-Chairs Julia Andrews Jim Bunce Perry Cheng Mary Gilley Leah Gilbert Harlow Sylvia Hobgood Becky McKinney Tom Rosemeier Marcus Vaughan Stephen Adkins, by Virtue of Office Wayne D. Faison, by Virtue of Office
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RELIGIOUS LIBERTY COMMITTEE OFFICIAL REPORT
Each year, the Religious Liberty Committee of the BGAV is charged with “reporting to the General Association annually on the nature and importance of religious liberty and the separation of church and state, citing violations in principle and practice, and suggestions for correcting same.” It is also instructed to “make available information relating to the subject with the view of safeguarding these cherished principles.” This mission continues to be an essential part of the uniquely Baptist witness of the BGAV. The need to protect and promote our cherished, long-standing principles of religious freedom and the separation of church and state, as well as helping churches wrestle with what this principle looks like in practice in our current context, continues to be vital. As the United States marks the 250th anniversary of its founding this year, churches and Christian leaders face renewed questions about patriotism, religious liberty, public witness, political engagement, and the proper relationship between church and state. The Religious Liberty Committee is honored to continue to promote the historic Baptist understanding of these core freedoms for all people – freedoms created not by constitution or legal decree, but by the God who creates us all – and the Committee is committed to providing resources for Virginia Baptists to encourage our understanding of these principles and equip our churches to proclaim the Good News that is found in our freedom under God’s loving provision. That freedom includes the liberty to seek God, respond to God, and embrace God, not through coercion, but through the liberty of love that Christ has shown to us. This is the historic Virginia Baptist perspective: that each person is free to worship God in whatever manner they understand best, or not worship God at all; that the State provides no favor to any religious group or privilege to any particular faith over another; that no religious expression or practice be required by the State; and that all persons of faith, or no faith at all, are equally treated by the law. This Virginia Baptist perspective parallels that of many other Baptist organizations, and we are grateful to not be alone in this important work. The influence of Christian nationalism—which “seeks to merge Christian and American identities” and “demands Christianity be privileged by the State and implies that to be a good American, one must be Christian”1— has continued to increase this year. As in previous years, our work is related to raising awareness of this concerning trend and helping Virginia Baptists understand how to stand against such threats to religious liberty and the separation of church and state. With these principles in mind, the Religious Liberty Committee of the BGAV continues to help churches better understand and safeguard the principles of religious liberty that are part of our Virginia Baptist DNA. This year, activities of the Committee include: • Religious Liberty Day: Each year, on the anniversary of the enactment of the Virgina Statute for Religious Freedom, the Committee invites interested Virginia Baptists to visit the State Capitol in Richmond to meet with legislators and legislative aides, providing information on religious liberty and advocating for religious freedom. The Committee was unable to participate this year due to various schedule conflicts, but this remains a regular activity of the Committee that we hope to continue in 2027. • Educational Videos: For each of the last three years, the Committee created and published videos that told the story of religious liberty in colonial Virginia: the story of Elder John Weatherford in 2023, the story of the meeting of John Leland and James Madison in 2024, and the story of Thomas Woolsey and the Overmountain Men in 2025. At this year’s annual meeting we are premiering a fourth video which will tell the story of Thomas Jefferson’s connection with Baptists such as John Leland and Roger Williams, and how Baptists supported Jefferson in his stance on churchstate separation. We are grateful for the support of EverBless which makes the production of these videos possible. • Church Resources and Community Partnerships: The Committee has ongoing projects related to resource production and promotion in conjunction with the Virginia Baptist Historical Society and the BGAV Marketing team. This year we have also partnered with 21Wilberforce, an international religious freedom advocacy organization based in Northern VA, specifically to support their award event in October honoring Baptist leader Rev. Dr. A. Roy Medley. 1
https://www.christiansagainstchristiannationalism.org/statement
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• Learning Labs: At the 2026 BGAV Annual Meeting, the Committee is offering learning labs related to Baptist history and how Baptist support for the separation of church and state remains critically important in contemporary America as we celebrate 250 years since our country’s founding. The Religious Liberty Committee of the BGAV is grateful for the opportunity to help provide resources and safeguard the religious liberty principles that Virginia Baptists have cherished for generations. We look forward to continuing this work in 2027. Respectfully submitted, Sarah Amick, Chair Rick Clore Bill Davis Scott Flanders Kathryn Wetzel Johnson Warren Johnson Nettie Stokes Adam Tyler Teresa Wallace Stephen Adkins, by Virtue of Office Wayne Faison, by Virtue of Office
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RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE OFFICIAL REPORT
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION We, the messengers to the 203rd meeting of the Baptist General Association of Virginia, praise God for the gift of life through His Son Jesus Christ, and for His high calling which has brought us together here at the Virginia Beach Convention Center on November 9-11, 2026. We express appreciation to all who have worked diligently to facilitate this annual meeting, especially the volunteers who are the heart-blood of all we do. We are grateful to the Program Committee for giving meaningful structure to our time together, and to all the program speakers and participants for their important and inspiring contributions. We acknowledge the committed work of our BGAV staff as they continue to serve Virginia Baptists, our churches, our ministers, and the people of our communities under the wise leadership of our Executive Director, Wayne Faison. We appreciate the elected officers of our state association who have served us so well: First Vice President, Mark Mofield; Second Vice President, Jim Bunce; Clerk, Tim Madison; Assistant Clerk, Jean Dart; and Parliamentarians, Adam Tyler and Bill Bryan. We are especially grateful for the dedicated leadership of our President, Chief Stephen Adkins, for his faithful ministry to and among Virginia Baptists. Finally, we resolve that as the Baptist General Association of Virginia, we will continue the work to which we have been called by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ – sharing the good news of His grace and inviting others into His Kingdom. Respectfully Submitted, The 2026 BGAV Resolutions Committee Phil Peacock, Chair Roger Austin Debbie Dajon Edith Kennedy Harold Massie Dayne McNabb Rusty Mullins Whitney Russell Debbie Thurman Horace Wade Stephen Adkins (by Virtue of Office) Wayne Faison (by Virtue of Office)
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SCHOLARSHIPS AND MINISTERIAL EDUCATION FUNDS COMMITTEE OFFICIAL REPORT
The Scholarships and Ministerial Education Funds Committee oversees financial awards “to further the educational development of (a) persons who are preparing for the Baptist ministry and (b) emerging leaders of all ages. (Constitution, Article VII, Section D, The Committee on Scholarships and Ministerial Education Funds.)” Eligible Virginia Baptist students may receive assistance through: • BGAV Continuing Education Scholarships which renews pastors and staff ministers through conferences; • BGAV College Scholarships providing aid for undergraduate education; • BGAV Ministerial Education Funds which support undergraduate or graduate education in preparation for vocational ministry; • BGAV Nontraditional Ministry Education Scholarships that allow individuals to capitalize on opportunities to secure training and continuing education for work in the local church; or, • BGAV Internship Grants made available to churches who want to provide internships opportunities in ministry settings. When it was created, the purpose of the BGAV Scholarships and Ministerial Education Funds was to “invest” in the lives of students who make up the ministries and Disciples of our cooperating Virginia Baptist Churches. Our aim, then and now, is to show that the Baptist General of Association stands in partnership with men and women who are called to further their education, and particularly the preparation of ministers leading our congregations. The unofficial name for this committee this year has been, “The Making Dreams and Opportunities Possible Committee.” This year, the committee has been informally known as the “Making Dreams and Opportunities Possible Committee.” This year, BGAV Churches have been able to assist 80 individuals who are a part of 57 different churches in our Association. Thank you for your gifts, partnerships and prayers that have enabled so many to further their training and education. We are thankful to Leslie Straw for her presence and help in our work. I would like to express my gratitude to all the members of this committee for the work they have done. Award College Continuing Education Ministerial Nontraditional Church Internships Unique Totals
Monies Recipients $37,000 38 $3,000 3 $59,000 10 $7,270 22 $13,200 7 $119,470 80
Churches Institutions 29 24 3 6 7 12 1 7 57 32
Respectfully submitted, Herbert Ponder, Chair Greg Anderson Jack Dunham Tracey Garrett Diane Grant Dana Jackson Melanie Lassiter Carolyn Taylor Smith
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46 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
2026 BGAV BOOK OF REPORTS
BGAV ANNUAL REPORT
BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 47
BGAV ANNUAL REPORT OFFICIAL REPORT
Throughout this year, we have continued to ask what it means to move the Mission Forward together. The stories in this report offer glimpses of that shared mission—congregations finding new ways to serve their neighbors, leaders being equipped for new opportunities, partnerships growing across communities and cultures, and people discovering places to belong and grow in faith. As I reflect on these stories, I am grateful for what God has done among us: Navigating Cultural Changes: Mission Development - hear how Virginia Baptist congregations are reimagining ministry for a changing world. From launching a church campus behind prison walls to merging congregations, developing global movement leaders, and reimagining the future of a small church, these stories illustrate what happens when churches look beyond familiar structures to discern new possibilities for mission. Together, they offer inspiring glimpses of how God is leading congregations and leaders to embrace change, cultivate community, and expand the reach of the Gospel. Leveling Up Their Skills: Leadership Development - hear how intentional leadership development is equipping churches and leaders to navigate change, build unity, and expand their influence. From helping a divided congregation discover shared purpose to coaching churches through transition, cultivating intercultural and intergenerational intelligence, and developing Jesus-shaped leaders in the workplace, these stories highlight BGAV’s commitment to equipping leaders for the challenges and opportunities of ministry today. Together, they reveal how investing in people strengthens congregations and extends their impact into the communities they serve. Finding Their People: Church Development - hear how partnerships, fresh expressions of ministry, and small investments are creating new possibilities for Kingdom impact. From developing young leaders through hands-on service and sustaining long-term partnerships in Haiti to helping nine congregations launch new ministries, equipping Dinner Church leaders to multiply their impact, and funding emerging ministry ideas, these stories celebrate the creativity and commitment of churches and leaders meeting people where they are. Together, they illustrate how connecting people, sharing resources, and cultivating new expressions of faith can strengthen communities and expand the reach of the Gospel. Knowing Their Neighbors: Community Development - hear how meaningful relationships and a spirit of collaboration are opening doors for the Gospel and deepening connections across communities. From international students discovering faith through campus ministry to campus leaders choosing collaboration over competition, these stories reveal the transformative power of hospitality, belonging, and shared witness. A learning journey along the U.S.-Mexico border further demonstrates how listening to diverse voices and building authentic relationships can broaden our understanding of ministry. Together, these experiences remind us that effective community engagement begins with knowing our neighbors, walking alongside them, and remaining open to what God can teach us through one another. Getting the Tools They Need: Resource Development - hear how BGAV is equipping churches and leaders with the relationships, insights, and resources needed to serve a changing world. From listening to pastors and ministry partners across Virginia and strengthening digital communications to expanding the reach of faith stories and providing data-rich insights into local communities, these initiatives help congregations better understand their neighbors and imagine new possibilities for ministry. Together, they reflect BGAV’s commitment to connecting people, cultivating collaboration, and putting practical tools into the hands of leaders as they respond to emerging needs and pursue God’s mission in their communities. As great as these stories are, I am being reminded by the Holy Spirit how mission always calls us to continue to forge ahead. There are still people we have not yet reached, relationships we have not yet formed, leaders we have not yet developed, and possibilities we have not yet imagined. That is where our attention turns next. As Virginia Baptists, may we continue moving forward together with a Heart for the Not Yet—listening for where God is already at work, making room for what God may do next, and faithfully joining in the renewal of all things. Dr. Wayne D. Faison, Executive Director 48 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
NAVIGATING CULTURAL CHANGES: MISSION DEVELOPMENT PASSION COMMUNITY CHURCH: MINISTRY BEHIND THE WALLS
When Passion Community Church in Powhatan considered where God might be calling the congregation next, its attention turned to people who have limited access to traditional church community. In 2026, the church launched a second campus inside a Virginia Department of Corrections facility, creating a new opportunity for worship, relationship, and Christian community behind the walls. The new campus extends the life of the congregation beyond its existing location and offers a tangible example of what can happen when a church considers who in its community may not yet have a place to belong. THE CORNER CHURCH: TWO CONGREGATIONS BECOME ONE
For Southview Community Church and Bridgeway Church, looking toward the future meant discerning whether two congregations might have a stronger future together. The churches merged in 2026 to become The Corner Church, with pastors William Attaway and Danny Chung serving in new roles. Rather than allowing transition to be defined only by what each congregation might lose, the churches chose to imagine what they could become together. Their new shared identity creates opportunities for ministry, relationships, and service that neither congregation would have pursued in quite the same way on its own. LOISE WANGECHI: FROM V3 PARTICIPANT TO MOVEMENT LEADER
When Loise Wangechi joined V3’s first Africa cohort in 2020, she was beginning a journey that would extend well beyond her own leadership development. She went on to plant Grace Impact Ministry in Nairobi and now serves as a V3 coach and East Africa regional coordinator. Today, Wangechi is helping equip other leaders and church planters, multiplying the investment once made in her. Her story demonstrates the potential of developing leaders who, in turn, create opportunities for new churches, new leaders, and new ministry communities. A RICHMOND CONGREGATION REIMAGINES ITS FUTURE
For Jonathan and Kate Howard and a small, contracting Richmond congregation, questions about the church’s future became an invitation to think differently about faithfulness. Using resources from V3, the congregation began reexamining discipleship, leadership, worship, and the ways its people could live out their calling together. Rather than concentrating only on preserving existing structures, they are discerning what kind of church God may be calling them to become and making room for possibilities they could not see before. LEVELING UP THEIR SKILLS: LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT ORCUTT BAPTIST CHURCH: FROM DIVISION TO SHARED DIRECTION
Pastor Ben Caldwell described Orcutt Baptist Church as functioning almost like two congregations. Through coaching and intentional listening, church members began developing greater unity and identifying priorities they could pursue together. Among those priorities are spiritual formation and service to single-parent households in the surrounding community. As the congregation develops a clearer sense of shared direction, it is becoming better prepared to grow together internally and to turn its attention toward neighbors it can serve. BLUE SKY: COACHING CONGREGATIONS THROUGH CHANGE
Three Tidewater churches are participating in Blue Sky, a new six-month congregational coaching pilot designed to help churches navigate seasons of change. The process gives congregations space to listen carefully, understand their present realities, identify barriers, and discern meaningful next steps. The pilot BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 49
expands coaching beyond individual leaders to the congregation as a whole, helping churches develop the capacity to make thoughtful decisions about ministries and opportunities that may still be taking shape. CATALYST CHURCH COHORT: DEVELOPING LEADERS TOGETHER
Pastors and ministry teams from Tidewater churches participated in an intensive leadership-development experience focused on intercultural and intergenerational intelligence, community engagement, and becoming better neighbors. The experience included larger gatherings, smaller huddles, shared meals, and an immersion experience in Philadelphia. Together, participants are developing skills for leading congregations amid changing communities and for building relationships across differences that churches may not yet know how to navigate well. DEVELOPING JESUS-SHAPED LEADERS BEYOND CHURCH STAFF
A new Uptick pilot is expanding the understanding of whom churches can develop as leaders by bringing business leaders and church staff into the same leadership-development cohort. The model recognizes that much of a congregation’s influence happens far beyond its staff and programs. By investing intentionally in people whose primary spheres of influence are workplaces and communities, churches can help develop Jesus-shaped leaders who carry their faith and leadership into places the institutional church may never directly reach. FINDING THEIR PEOPLE: CHURCH DEVELOPMENT IMPACT MISSION CAMPS: DEVELOPING LEADERS THROUGH SERVICE
In Summer 2026, 282 participants from 25 churches served through Impact Mission Camps in Mecklenburg, Roanoke, and the Eastern Shore, completing 28 projects. The camps provide more than an opportunity to complete needed work. Experienced crew chiefs and college-age staff members mentor younger participants as they serve, helping young people discover their own capacity for leadership. The result is an investment not only in the communities receiving assistance today, but also in young leaders who can carry lives of service into the future. SOURCE OF LIGHT CENTRE, HAITI: THE LONG-TERM IMPACT OF PARTNERSHIP
In Haiti, where communities continue to face extraordinarily difficult conditions, the Source of Light Centre demonstrates what sustained partnership can make possible over time. Virginia Baptist support has helped the ministry continue providing education and care. Among those whose lives have been shaped by that investment is a young adult who grew up through the ministry and has now completed secondary education. One life offers a glimpse of the cumulative impact of relationships sustained year after year—and of the possibilities that remain for the children and young people still being served. NINE CHURCHES, NINE NEW EXPRESSIONS OF MINISTRY
Nine Church of the Brethren congregations entered a nine-month Fresh Expressions innovation process with a common challenge: pay attention to the people around them and consider what new forms of ministry might emerge from what they discovered. All nine developed new ministries in response to needs in their congregations and communities. Those responses included ministries with youth and day workers, medical care for uninsured people, and new worship experiences. Rather than beginning with a predetermined ministry model, the churches began with their neighbors— and discovered nine different possibilities. GLASS CITY DINNER CHURCH: TRAINING THAT MULTIPLIED
Calvin Green and his team came to Lynchburg for a Dinner Church Encounter and returned home to Lancaster, Ohio, prepared to put what they had learned into practice. The Dinner Church they developed eventually outgrew its original location. When Glass City Dinner Church held its first service in a new building 143 people attended, and nine were baptized. Training provided in one place became the foundation for a growing community somewhere else, demonstrating how equipping leaders can multiply well beyond the original event. 50 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
SMALL INVESTMENTS IN WHAT COMES NEXT
In March 2026, BGAV awarded eight microgrants and five learning stipends to applicants who participated in Ascent’s inaugural Summit in Falls Church, Virginia. The microgrants are helping recipients experiment with new approaches to community outreach, church planting, international ministry, worship and the arts, and ministry with refugees and immigrants. Learning stipends are helping leaders pursue theological education, ministry training, research, and opportunities to learn from the global church. Together, these 13 investments create room for leaders to put new ministry ideas into practice while developing the knowledge and skills that can shape what comes next. KNOWING THEIR NEIGHBORS: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT A RELATIONSHIP THAT CROSSED CONTINENTS
At the College of William & Mary, a relationship with a Chinese student named Jiahong began through conversational English and Bible study. It did not end when she returned to China. Relationships with members of the BCM and a local church continued across the distance as Jiahong continued exploring faith and ultimately chose to follow Christ. When she later returned to Williamsburg, she was baptized in the James River. Her journey is a reminder that the relationships formed through campus ministry can reach well beyond a university campus—and sometimes well beyond the borders of the United States. COLLABORATION INSTEAD OF COMPETITION
When a student at Radford struggled to establish another campus ministry, BCM leaders had a choice about how to respond. Instead of viewing the new ministry as competition, they offered meeting space and mentoring. Over time, leaders from the other ministry became active participants and leaders within the larger BCM community. What began as an opportunity to make room for someone else became a relationship that strengthened ministry on the campus and demonstrated what can happen when collaboration takes precedence over protecting organizational territory. TWO STUDENTS TAKE THE STEP OF BAPTISM
Abby and Tyler came to JMU BCM from very different backgrounds. Abby’s journey followed a difficult season in high school and a growing understanding of the gospel. Tyler came through relationships with friends despite having grown up in a family opposed to Christianity. During BCM’s fall retreat at Sandbridge, both chose to be baptized in the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by the community that had walked alongside them. Their stories represent two of the many different paths through which students who are still exploring faith can find relationships, belonging, and opportunities to take their own next steps. LEARNING FROM THE BORDERLANDS
In June 2026, team members from Missio Alliance and BGAV Marketing traveled to El Paso to spend time with Christian leaders, pastors, and artists serving along the U.S.-Mexico border. They arrived with questions and encountered the complexity of a place where issues of hospitality, migration, justice, culture, and Christian formation are part of everyday life. The visit was intended not as an experience to complete and leave behind, but as the beginning of relationships from which BGAV and Missio Alliance can continue learning. Those relationships are now shaping plans for future borderlands experiences that will invite other church leaders into similar conversations and encourage them to consider the “borderlands” within their own communities—places where different people, experiences, and perspectives meet.
BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 51
GETTING THE TOOLS THEY NEED: RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT LISTENING ACROSS VIRGINIA
Throughout 2026, Wayne Faison and other BGAV leaders hosted Pastors & Partners Networking Luncheons in Northern Virginia, Southwest Virginia, Tidewater, and the Capital Region. Each gathering brought pastors and ministry partners together to listen, connect, and consider challenges particular to their region. The conversations addressed issues including housing and economic disparities, education, addiction and recovery, immigration, military-connected instability, transportation, and community safety. The gatherings also looked ahead with intention. Grounded in BGAV’s Heart for the Not Yet emphasis, they created space for meaningful conversation, shared vision, and Spirit-led imagination as leaders considered how Virginia Baptists might respond collaboratively to needs beyond the walls of their churches. EXTENDING BGAV’S REACH THROUGH DIGITAL CONTENT
BGAV invested in its capacity to understand and communicate with its audiences by creating a new Marketing Strategist position and welcoming Isabella Lee to the Marketing team. Isabella holds a degree in media arts and design with a focus on user experience and grew up in BGAV churches, bringing both a needed skill set and familiarity with Virginia Baptist life to the role. Her work strengthens BGAV’s digital communications, audience and engagement data, and content production while helping ministry teams communicate more effectively with churches, leaders, and communities. The position combines management of digital communication platforms and constituent data with additional editorial and multimedia production capacity. IN THE MIDST: EXPANDING THE REACH OF STORY
In 2026, BGAV and Missio Alliance collaborated on In the Midst , a five-year, $5 million proposal submitted to Lilly Endowment’s National Storytelling Initiative. The proposed initiative would identify and equip Christian storytellers while creating new ways to gather and share authentic stories of faith through multimedia, podcasts, publications, and other platforms. If funded, In the Midst would expand the storytelling work already developing through BGAV and Missio Alliance, creating opportunities to discover voices and stories that have not yet been heard and share them with broader audiences. MINISTRY PROFILE STUDIES: HELPING CHURCHES BETTER UNDERSTAND THEIR COMMUNITIES
Sometimes reaching people who are not yet part of a congregation begins with understanding who those people are. In 2026, BGAV refreshed its Ministry Profile studies, providing church leaders with interactive, data-rich reports that offer a detailed picture of people living within a reasonable drive time of their locations. Demographic and lifestyle information helps congregations better understand their neighbors and consider ministries designed around the particular people and needs present in their communities. BGAV also began providing the studies to churches participating in cohorts of the Lilly-grant-funded Building for Hope initiative. Building for Hope guides congregations through a two-year journey of considering how underutilized facilities and other physical assets can be repurposed to advance their mission and strengthen connections with their communities. The Ministry Profile studies add another dimension to that discernment: helping churches consider their own resources through a lens of awareness of the people around them—and to explore how those resources might serve their neighbors.
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2026 BGAV BOOK OF REPORTS
ANNUAL REPORTS OF MINISTRY PARTNERS, EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS, AND SHARED MINISTRIES MINISTRY PARTNERS:
• BAPTIST EXTENSION BOARD • CENTER FOR BAPTIST HERITAGE AND STUDIES • EVERBLESS FOUNDATION • GRACEINSIDE: VIRGINIA’S PRISON CHAPLAIN SERVICE • HERMISSION • HOPETREE FAMILY SERVICES • LIFESPIRE OF VIRGINIA • VIRGINIA BAPTIST HISTORICAL SOCIETY
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS:
• AVERETT UNIVERSITY • BLUEFIELD UNIVERSITY • FORK UNION MILITARY ACADEMY • HARGRAVE MILITARY ACADEMY • LELAND SEMINARY • OAK HILL ACADEMY
SHARED MINISTRIES:
• BAPTIST JOINT COMMITTEE FOR RELIGIOUS LIBERTY • BAPTIST WORLD ALLIANCE • CAMPBELL UNIVERSITY • GARDNER-WEBB UNIVERSITY • INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD • MCAFEE SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY AT MERCER UNIVERSITY • MINISTERING TO MINISTERS BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 53
BAPTIST EXTENSION BOARD ANNUAL REPORT
Baptist Extension B o a r d I N C O R P O R A T E D
e st . 1 9 4 0
The Baptist Extension Board was organized in 1940 during the church building boom that followed World War II. The 15-member board is comprised of both clergy and lay leaders who volunteer their time to serve. In the subsequent 86 years, its loan fund has grown to more than $20 million through interest on loan repayments and allocations from Virginia’s Cooperative Missions contributions. By lending money at attractive interest rates, the Baptist Extension Board assists churches, mission congregations, and district associations that are not able to secure full commercial financing. Loans are usually issued over a maturing period of 12 to 15 years. During the first eight months of the 2026 fiscal year, there were four loans approved totaling $5,911,000. These funds were requested for new construction projects, land purchases and renovations to existing church facilities. As of August 31, 2026, the Baptist Extension Board, Inc. services 38 loans with a combined balance of $14,355,678. Loans granted by the Baptist Extension Board are a Virginia Baptist investment in outreach. Several Virginia Baptist church starts in the last 86 years have significantly impacted their communities because of the financial assistance received from the Baptist Extension Board, Inc. Visit our website at www.bgav.org/beb/ to obtain information about the loan application process or call our office at 1-800-ALL-BGAV.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
*Tim Burnett, President ~Brian Hughes, Vice President *Audrey Holmes, Recording Secretary *David B. Washburn, Treasurer *Wayne D. Faison, Executive Director Terms to expire in 2026 ~Angelee Godbold (1st Term) ~Tim Burnett (1st Term) **John Saunders (2nd Term)
Terms to expire 2028 *Audrey Holme s (1st Term) **Allan Smith (2nd Term) Brian Hughes (1st Term) Terms to expire in 2029 **Robert E. Lee IV (2nd Term) Bill Emory (2nd Term) TBD
Terms to expire 2027 P. Duaine Fitzgerald (1st Term) *Charles W. Tilley (2nd Term) ~Darl Wilburn (1st Term) * Member of the Executive Committee by virtue of office ** Member of the Executive Committee by virtue of election ~ Alternate Executive Committee Member by virtue of election
54 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
CENTER FOR BAPTIST HERITAGE & STUDIES ANNUAL REPORT
The Center for Baptist Heritage & Studies stands as a partnership of the BGAV, the University of Richmond and the Virginia Baptist Historical Society. From its inception, the Center was envisioned as an educational vehicle to enhance understanding of Baptist principles and to engender opportunities for research and exploration of the Baptist tradition, especially utilizing the material record of Virginia Baptists maintained by VBHS. The ministry performed by the Center offers creative and challenging resources to assist individuals and congregations in cultivating deeper awareness of the Baptist heritage, including the legacy of freedom that shapes our spiritual identity. The Center provides materials and experiences that encourage a more meaningful grasp of Baptist heritage and through which current issues may be explored. The mission of the Center has four dimensions: 1. To champion Baptist distinctives and Baptist heritage, 2. To provide educational opportunities related to Baptist distinctives, history and heritage, 3. To make available Baptist records and historical materials, and 4. To serve as a research center for undergraduates, scholars, and local church historians. The mission continues, across Virginia and beyond. The Center’s Heritage Fellows program seeks to align the Fellow’s research experience with their academic and professional goals. The program provides an in-depth introduction to Baptist history and heritage over the course of one to two academic years, as Fellows pursue supervised research using the VBHS collections on topics of their choice. More broadly, the experience strengthens future Baptist leaders by deepening their engagement and critical reflection on the principles, polity and historical currents that give shape to the tradition. As young scholars contributing to the field, Fellows earn a stipend for their work, currently $4,000 per academic year, tied to four progress gates along the way. At time of publication, selection for the next Fellow remains open. Our most recent Fellow, Sam Turner (Emory & Henry) is finalizing his report on how the historic Baptist witness of religious liberty relates to later and even contemporary efforts to enforce the teaching of Christianity through taxpayer-funded school initiatives. His research has included the controversy over a General Assessment for teachers of the Christian religion and Madison’s reply, known as the Memorial and Remonstrance Against Religious Establishments. The Center continues collaborating with other BGAV partners whenever possible, such as introducing the history of Baptists and other dissenters in Colonial Virginia during the Baptist Joint Committee’s Fellows program held in Williamsburg. This unique program includes a walking tour of points of interest for religious freedom, which originally was developed by Nathan Taylor with Cory D.B. Walker in 2018, and has been co-led annually by Taylor and various scholars. For 2026, following the guided walking tour portion, Taylor again presented an Introduction to the Baptist Tradition for this multifaith group of young scholars and leaders from all over the U.S. A separate Religious Liberty Immersion experience continues to be in development, following an initial offering in 2025, with the next iteration expected in 2027. Our longstanding host community, the University of Richmond, continues to call upon the Center with a renewed level of interest in understanding its Baptist origins, which brings new generations of students into deeper engagement with the historic role of the Baptist tradition. The Center plays a vital role in this, including exploring the complexities of race and the early Baptist pursuit of religious liberty for all, as well as an educated clergy. Classes consulting the collections for academic research are always highlights of the year and introduce those beyond Baptist life to this story. To reach as many as possible with the unique insight that it is charged to offer, the Center continues its commitment to increasing access to the material collections of the VBHS. As the primary sources of Virginia Baptist history, these irreplaceable collections form the foundation for the educational work of the Center. A variety of challenges, such as BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 55
the rapid deterioration of records and the significant expense of technology and personnel, remain at play. Along with these issues comes immense opportunity. Since the mission of the Center entails “making available Baptist records and historical materials,” and “serving as a research center for undergraduates, scholars, and church historians,” the fulfillment of that mission requires providing the elements necessary to make it a reality. With this backdrop, the Center continues, alongside VBHS, to develop the infrastructure needed to make the materials more available digitally, and in increasing collaboration with the University. We look forward to facilitating increased access to original materials for the Center’s Fellows and others, who are increasingly non-residential. Researchers in general will be able to make more extensive use of the materials toward greater understanding of Baptist history and heritage (mission pillar 2). Expanded use of major equipment purchased in previous years is helping to make great advances in this regard. Thus, the leadership of both the Center and VBHS continues advocating for strong financial support of these advancements. The generous support of BGAV for the Center is deeply appreciated and vital for fulfilling this special mission, which is more urgent than ever. The Center continues to support staff visits to local churches, preaching and teaching about our Baptist heritage of dissent and related topics. Please contact the Center if your church would like to schedule a presentation on Baptist history and identity. We are grateful to “BGAV Baptists” for making it all possible, as we share this heritage of soul freedom with current and future generations.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
BGAV Rev. Richard Clore (Chair) (2029), Orange Baptist Church, Orange Mr. L. Richard Martin (2026), Huguenot Road Baptist Church, Richmond Mr. James Ryland (2027), Upper King & Queen Baptist Church, Tappahannock Dr. Jocelyn Henry-Whitehead (2028), New Zion Baptist Church, Williamsburg University of Richmond Dr. Ellis West (2026), River Road Church, Baptist, Richmond Dr. John Gordon (2028), River Road Church, Baptist, Richmond Rev. Sid Rodriguez (2028), Antioch Baptist Church, Red Oak Rev. Dr. Craig Kocher, University Chaplain (standing) VBHS Mr. Dennis Sacrey (2026), Fredericksburg Baptist Church, Fredericksburg Mrs. Vivian Clingenpeel (2026), River Road Church, Baptist, Richmond Rev. Dr. Herbert Browning (Vice Chair) (2026), River Road Church, Baptist, Richmond Rev. Dr. Tim Madison (2026), Emmaus Baptist Church, Providence Forge Executive Director Rev. Dr. Nathan Taylor (standing), River Road Church, Baptist, Richmond
56 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
EVERBLESS FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT
A CENTURY OF SERVICE AND IMPACT In 2025, EverBless Foundation celebrated its 103rd year of service, continuing a rich legacy of supporting the church and strengthening communities across generations. Building on that century of experience, we remain committed to helping individuals, churches, and ministries advance their missions of faith through comprehensive estate planning, trusted financial management, and impactful educational initiatives. OUR SERVICES Estate Planning From our founding, the heart of EverBless’ mission has been to continue helping individuals create lasting legacies of giving. This past year, we guided clients through the creation of estate plans that included wills, charitable remainder trusts, charitable gift annuities, endowed scholarships, and donor-advised funds. We also faithfully managed and distributed charitable gifts and endowed funds in accordance with donor wishes, ensuring their generosity continues to bear fruit for years to come. Financial Management As of August 2026, EverBless manages $337.2 million in assets, serving more than 300 churches and nonprofit organizations. Partnering with Mercer, one of the world’s leading investment advisors, we provide strategic oversight so our ministry partners can focus on their core mission. Our disciplined, low-cost investment approach supports a variety of designated accounts, including building funds, missions, cemetery care, endowments, children’s ministry, and scholarships. Donor-Advised Funds We continue to expand our donor-advised fund program, enabling individuals and families to give with purpose, flexibility, and impact. These funds allow donors to efficiently and effectively direct their charitable giving to the causes they care about most. Bible Study Curriculum To encourage generosity and spiritual growth, we offer “UNSTOPPABLE,” a Bible study about living with a generous spirit. Available via streaming, download, CD, or USB, this free resource has encouraged stewardship among hundreds of individuals and numerous churches, with many participants taking steps to create wills and implement planned giving tools as a result. Scholarships In May 2026, EverBless awarded $353,000 in scholarships to 128 students pursuing degrees at two- and four-year colleges, universities, seminaries, and trade schools. These awards are made possible by visionary donors whose planned gifts invest in the next generation of Christian leaders and ministry servants. 2025 IMPACT HIGHLIGHTS This year, EverBless: • Added $27.6 million in new assets under management. • Distributed $22.4 million to our clients: churches, mission groups, schools, and nonprofit organizations. • Supported ministries such as the Baptist General Association of Virginia, the Virginia Baptist Historical Society, HopeTree Family Services, LifeSpire, and HerMission, extending our reach locally and globally to communities in need. BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 57
MISSION FORWARD As we enter 2027, EverBless remains steadfast in our mission: to serve the church and its communities through faithful financial stewardship, life-impacting educational initiatives, and comprehensive estate planning services. With gratitude for the past and hope for the future, we look forward to another year of growth, service, and Kingdom impact.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Leigh Anne Baggs, Manakin-Sabot Ann F. Brown, Gretna Joy C. Burroughs, Disputanta W. Edward Clingman, Jr., Mechanicsville David J. Fairchild, Midlothian Janet C. Garrett, Glen Allen (Board Secretary) Britton L. Glisson, Doswell Leah S. Hopper, Richmond Benjamin A. Jamison, Palmyra Charles G. Key, Henrico Lawrence L. Peacock, Jr., Annandale (Board Chair) Benjamin D. Sillmon, III, Midlothian Robert L. Smythers, Blacksburg Patrice R. Stokes, Henrico William E. Watson, Farmville Robert A. Whitehead, Quinton
58 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
GRACEINSIDE ANNUAL REPORT
Sent by the church, GraceInside provides chaplains in Virginia prisons to embody hope, nurture faith, and inspire transformation. On Friday, April 24, we were overjoyed to witness the baptism of 23 men at Deerfield Correctional Center. I was invited to share a few words, and I opened with a greeting I often use in these settings: “Greetings from the free-world church!” (That’s YOU — our partners and donors!) I then shared with the 80–90 men gathered there that whenever I stand before a free-world church, I open with similar words: “Greetings from the prison-church!” In my role as Executive Director, I strive to remind churches everywhere that our brothers and sisters in prison are not spiritually or categorically separate because of their incarceration. Quite the opposite! They are an integral part of the Body of Christ, and they must not be forgotten! We are all equal at the foot of the cross, and their church is every bit as valid and real as any church “on the street.” They weren’t just baptized into a prison-church; they were welcomed as vital, Spirit-empowered disciples into the one Body of Christ. Because of partners like the BGAV, we are able to be present and embrace these precious brothers.
January 2026: New Faces! Rev. Aaron Brittain (left) transitioned from pastoral ministry (Talbot Park Baptist Church) to join GraceInside as Director of Operations. Chaplain Eldridge Frank Smith (center, minister at Mount Tabor Baptist Church) began serving as chaplain at Deerfield Correctional Center.
July 2026: Supervising Chaplain Jerusha Moses (far right, River Road Church, Baptist) officiated at a baptism service at Lunenburg Correctional Center. BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 59
July 2026: Chaplain Nick Meyer (Executive Director) with chaplain clerks at Coffeewood Correctional Center. The man on the right served nearly two decades in prison and was approved to begin volunteering — a living testimony of what is possible when inmates are discipled.
In 2026, we entered a new 5-year contract with the Virginia Department of Corrections, which accounts for about twothirds of our $2 million budget. We are privileged with the responsibility of providing chaplains in all 38 prisons with around 3,600 chaplain hours per month (roughly 21 Full Time Equivalent Chaplains serving 23,000 inmates). In 2027, for the first time in our 106 year history, GraceInside will begin offering Health Insurance Benefits and increasing our retirement match for chaplains. While most of our chaplains are part time, we are actively striving towards full time status. Our chaplains work extremely hard in a demanding environment, and we are humbled by the opportunity to honor their faithful service. Please pray for our chaplains on the front lines as we seek to be faithful ambassadors of Christ in this ministry of presence. And please consider inviting us to your church to share more about what God is doing in prison. To Him be glory in the church forever! Chaplain Nick Meyer Executive Director, GraceInside
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Jim Bailey, Chair Sherwood Bowditch, Vice Chair S. Chris Jones Tyler Johnson, Legal Counsel Rev. Phil Kniss Rob McClintock Park Messier Joe Riojas Rev. Caroline Taminger (BGAV Representative) Hendrik van der Vaart Carter Whitlow
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HERMISSION ANNUAL REPORT
HerMission Continues to Grow During 2026, HerMission catalogued over 50 new and renewed mission groups across the Commonwealth. Churches are revitalizing their mission education programs for children through Children in Action, Girls in Action, and Royal Ambassadors. Some churches have also added youth and women’s groups. We are excited to see how these new groups will increase Kingdom impact in their communities and beyond. Our Adult, Student, Children, Multicultural, and Men & Boys Mission Strategists are excited to connect with churches and para-church organizations to provide encouragement, expertise, and resources. CrossRoads Camp & Conference Center (CCCC) CrossRoads Camp continues to be a place where we cultivate space to experience God. Summer camp numbers continue to increase with 26 staff members and 400 campers participating in CrossRoads programming this summer. In addition, we hosted nearly 1,000 additional “campers” from seven different organizations during the summer camping season. Overall, CrossRoads is on track to host up to 40 different organizations this year with thousands of people experiencing the beauty of our mountain retreat. Reverend Kenny Daniel, Operations and Pastoral Director, has exciting plans for CrossRoads over the next ten years. We are currently in a fundraising campaign to “Raise the Roof ” at Hunt Hall as well as revitalize the bathrooms in each of the 16 cabins on campus. We have also welcomed our first two “Foundry Project” interns who will live, work, and learn at CrossRoads for the 2026-2027 school year. CrossRoads welcomes groups of all ages to spend a night or two (or five!), enjoy delicious food, walk the trails, hike to The Rock, and just be with God in one of the beautiful corners of His creation. Alma Hunt Offering for Virginia Missions The Alma Hunt Offering is cooperative giving that allows HerMission and the BGAV to engage in programs that provide missions education and involve people in hands-on ministries. HerMission staff lead in the facilitation of the production of the promotional materials sent to the churches. This year, we created bulletin inserts for churches to highlight BGAV and HerMission ministries, including CrossRoads, multicultural missions, mini-grants, Impact Mission Camps, church planting, and fighting global poverty. In September, the Multicultural Mission Council hosted its first “All One in Christ” Mission Celebration at Living Hope Church RVA. People of all nations and backgrounds came together to worship, celebrate, and learn about missions at this one-day event. The Alma Hunt Offering brings Virginia Baptists together as we keep our focus on missions! Partnership Updates HerMission staff and volunteers had the opportunity to partner with several organizations in 2025 and 2026 as we explored possibilities for our next three-year partnership. In addition to international groups like Food for the Hungry, Hope Alive, Ghana WMU, and missionaries in Singapore, we also spent time meeting with leaders of other state WMU groups. As HerMission enters 2027, we look forward to working closely with Christian Job Corps in North Carolina for the next three years. Not only will there be mission trips to serve in different parts of North Carolina, but there will also be opportunities for training as we work toward reviving the Christian Job Corps in Virginia. HerMission, WMU, and the Local Church Despite the rapidly changing church and denominational landscape, Virginia Baptist women are continuing to mobilize the entire church to be on mission. Women are facilitating outreach opportunities in their churches that engage all members to learn about missions, pray for missions, give to missions, and do missions. There are certainly fewer churches with traditional WMU groups, but we are encouraged by the number of new and renewed groups that started in 2026. The new audiences in HerMission are not privy to the traditional model but are connecting in areas of interest to be on mission that include praying, giving, and going as well! BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 61
HerMission Looking Ahead HerMission will continue to host its annual events, and Mission Strategists are working with their council members for an exciting year in 2027. Whether it’s Shine, Mom & Me, Sisters Who Care, Women’s Getaway, Passing the Fire for Men & Boys, or a retreat or week of summer camp at CrossRoads, there is something for everyone! Stay connected with our bi-monthly HerMission Highlights email newsletter and follow HerMission on Facebook and Instagram to see photos of events and important announcements. Respectfully Submitted, Dr. Bethany Warren Hunter
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Winnie Wang, President Heidi Craft, Vice-President/Secretary Penny Cole Connie Cruze Heather Furrow Annette Greenwood Claudia Hatfield Rhonda Luckie So Heon Park Lauren Pillow Emilie Simpson Shirley Smith Emma Sorrells Hannah Sower Lynne Stockman Executive Director/Treasurer: Dr. Bethany Warren Hunter
62 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
HOPETREE FAMILY SERVICES ANNUAL REPORT
HopeTree Family Services exists to offer hope and create strong, healthy, and resilient individuals, families, and communities across Virginia. Through a continuum of Christ-centered services, HopeTree serves children, adults, and families experiencing complex challenges while advancing opportunities for healing, growth, and long-term stability. In 2025, HopeTree continued to strengthen existing programs, launch new initiatives, improve organizational effectiveness, and prepare for strategic expansion into underserved regions of Virginia. MINISTRY HIGHLIGHTS Expanding Clinical Services: HopeTree’s new outpatient counseling program completed its first full year, serving 59 clients. Additionally, Family Centered Treatment provided 3,279 hours of counseling and family support services in Richmond, Salem, and surrounding communities. These services increased access to quality behavioral health care while helping families remain safely together. Supporting Permanency for Children and Families: Treatment Foster Care served 81 children throughout the year. Seventy-one percent of discharged youth achieved permanency through reunification with family, adoption, or placement with relatives and kinship caregivers. HopeTree also celebrated nine adoptions during 2025. As of September 2026, we are currently serving 41 youth in care. Nurturing Spiritual Growth: HopeTree’s Chaplaincy Program continued to play a vital role in the ministry. The chaplain conducted more than 120 individual meetings with residents, staff, and families, led 185 Bible studies, provided regular staff devotionals, and witnessed five known spiritual decisions during the year. Educational Success: HopeTree Academy served 63 students with specialized educational needs and celebrated a 100% graduation rate among eligible graduates. The Academy continues to provide individualized educational support that helps students thrive academically and personally. Residential Care and Therapeutic Support: The Therapeutic Group Homes program served 35 youth from 21 Virginia localities. Forty-eight percent of residents achieved successful discharge outcomes by transitioning to lower levels of care or more permanent living arrangements. Serving Adults with Disabilities: Developmental Disabilities Ministry supported 85 adults residing in 17 homes across Virginia. The average resident has lived in HopeTree-supported services for approximately 13 years, demonstrating the stability and continuity of care provided through the program. 2025-2026 IMPACT AT A GLANCE • 12 service sites across Virginia • 81 children served in foster care • 35 children served in residential care • 57 children and 40 parents served • 85 adults served in residential disability services • 57 senior adults served • 91 individuals served through counseling services • 9 adoptions finalized • 196 full-time equivalent employees • Annual operating budget of $22,113,953
BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 63
LOOKING AHEAD As HopeTree approaches the next chapter of its ministry, the organization remains committed to providing exceptional care through innovative, Christ-centered services. Priorities for 2027 service expansion include a potential new HopeTree Academy site in Franklin County and Treatment Foster Care in Abingdon and Bristol. We will be updating and renovating our administrative and human services buildings as well as soliciting support under the Campaign for the Generations capital campaign into 2027. Other focuses will include strengthening organizational infrastructure, enhancing workforce development, advancing campus improvements, and increasing opportunities to share hope and transformation with those entrusted to our care. Through faithful stewardship and strong partnerships, HopeTree will continue creating healthy, resilient individuals, families, and communities throughout Virginia. For more information on supporting the Campaign for the Generations or learning more about the impact of HopeTree’s programs, please contact philanthropy@hopetreefs.org or visit www.hopetreefs.org.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Term Expires December 2026 Dr. Melissa Jackson Michael Elmore Ron J. Clark Patrick Wood* Laura Riha Kim Baskette Term Expires December 2027 Sydney Gustafson Morgan Meador John Mizell Patrick Shaffner VACANT
Term Expires December 2028 Stephanie Cook* Trinette Randolph William (Bill) DeWorken Charles (Chuck) Clement Diane Romanello Lucianne Warren Kim Turner Term Expires December 2029 Richard Martin Carla Shepherd Bill Bryan Candace Dowell Nichelle Williams* Wayne Brockwell
* BGAV Affiliation
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LIFESPIRE ANNUAL REPORT
LifeSpire of Virginia (formerly Virginia Baptist Homes) now serves more than 1,800 senior adults aged 62 to 100+ in five continuing care retirement communities in Virginia: Culpeper, Newport News, Richmond, Daleville and Lynchburg. We also provide services to seniors who prefer to stay at home and age in place in the Richmond area through a program called AgeSmart. Originally implemented as Lakewood at Home to provide services to members in the Richmond area, we are excited to share that AgeSmart, our ‘continuing care retirement community without walls’ is expanding to provide services across the Commonwealth in all our localities. LifeSpire’s mission is to empower individuals with choices in purposeful living. Resident services available include independent residential, assisted living, memory support, and skilled nursing care. Providing a full continuum of care gives security and peace of mind to residents and their loved ones. Residents know they will receive care that promotes dignity and quality of life. They will remain among friends, and couples will be able to visit should one or both of them need healthcare services. Members in the AgeSmart program are provided long-term care services in their home, with the peace of mind that if they need higher levels of care, services will be provided in house at one of our communities. LifeSpire of Virginia continues to meet human needs in the name of Christ. Asking for help is very difficult for many people as they age, especially for those who have worked hard all their lives and have been able to meet their own needs. The supportive environment provided by our faith-based communities allows residents to access services without feeling they are a burden to others. Residents and staff truly are a family, and this helps assure a smoother transition through major life changes. Our objectives are to provide: • A full continuum of care on-site in a Christian environment; • Wellness programming that enhances the spiritual, emotional and physical aspects of life with a goal of preserving independence, dignity, and freedom; • Services that allow residents to use and share the skills, talents, and personal interests that enhance their lives and the lives of others; • A support system that enhances the lives of residents physically, emotionally, and spiritually; • Enhanced dignity, choice, and independence to help preserve self-esteem. In addition to physical and emotional needs, residents know that should they need financial assistance, funds will be made available for anyone qualifying for such assistance. LifeSpire has never asked a resident to leave due to their financial need, which is a great source of comfort for residents. This continues to be a goal that LifeSpire strives to meet. During 2025, the VBH Foundation provided $1,238,174 to 38 residents in our five communities. Of those, 63% were Baptist, 87% were female (76% which were widows), and 69% were 90 years old or older. Four residents aged 100+ are receiving financial subsidies. This year marked LifeSpire’s 80th anniversary of serving seniors in need. Founded as Virginia Baptist Homes with the support of the BGAV, this milestone has given us the chance to honor our past while we continue to look to the future with growth opportunities to extend our mission and serve even more older adults. We look to the future with promise and hope that Virginia’s senior adults will have the best choices for active and joyful living.
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BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Officers of the Corporation Jonathan R. Cook, President/CEO Tracey Jennings, Executive Vice President/Chief Operations Officer Robin Ransom, Chief Financial Officer/Chief Strategy Officer Susan Rucker, Secretary Christine Moran, Assistant Treasurer Officers of the Board John J. Jung, Chair Rev. Daniel Carlton, Vice Chair* James A. Bales Sharon Brooks Brian Carlton Matthew Cobb Bradford K. Harris Samuel Oakey Arne Owens Jim Poats Shannon C. Shafer Priscilla Shuler* Gary Thomson Matt Thornhill Rev. Dr. Jim Vaught Trish White-Boyd * BGAV representative
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VIRGINIA BAPTIST HISTORICAL SOCIETY ANNUAL REPORT
Now in its 150th year, VBHS continues to serve the BGAV family and the public as the dedicated custodian of Virginia Baptist history. Today, it is one of the oldest and longest-running Baptist archives in the world with an unbroken history of preservation. This work includes management and stewardship of the extensive archives, library, art and artifacts entrusted to the Society, as well as responding to regular requests from churches and other researchers. The Annual Dinner and Meeting of the Society was held at River Road Church, Baptist, Richmond, on June 4, 2026, with a special emphasis on the 150th Anniversary of the Society. The anniversary dinner was kindly sponsored by EverBless, and featured a heartfelt video greeting from Elijah Brown, BWA General Secretary, who was traveling. After dinner and a transition to the sanctuary, VBHS President Joe Lewis called the meeting to order, followed by a welcome greeting from Pastor Daniel Glaze, River Road Church. BGAV Executive Director Wayne Faison offered greetings on behalf of Virginia Baptists and additional letters for the anniversary were also read by members of VBHS, from the following: Elijah Brown, Baptist World Alliance (by Nathan Taylor); Executive Director Aaron Weaver, Baptist History & Heritage Society (by Wm. Loyd Allen); and President Kevin Hallock, University of Richmond (by Ed Pruden). Chief Stephen Adkins, BGAV President, then offered remarks reflecting upon the VBHS 150th and the 250th anniversary of the United States. Paul Richardson led those gathered in singing How Firm a Foundation, accompanied by Neal Campbell (RRCB), on the organ. Nathan Taylor offered the Executive Director’s Report, which was a litany of gratitude for the many forebears who initiated and continued the work, as well as many of those present, including current staff, Darlene Herod and Robbie Miller, as well as Executive Director Emeritus, Fred Anderson. The historic and ongoing 150-year partnership with the University of Richmond was also celebrated. During the business portion, Dennis Sacrey (Fredericksburg Baptist) was elected president, as Taylor noted with gratitude the service of outgoing president, Joe Lewis, who was finishing his second term on the committee. Vivian Clingenpeel was elected 1st vice president, Bert Browning was elected 2nd vice president, and Tim Madison was elected 3rd vice president. Renewing for a second term on the Executive Committee were: Rob Ryland, Browning, Sacrey, and Rob Brown. Valerie Carter Smith was elected to begin a new term. The Society remains grateful for the hospitality offered by the staff and congregation of River Road Church. J. Brent Walker, J.D., Executive Director Emeritus, Baptist Joint Committee, offered greetings from BJC and then the keynote address, “What Baptists Got Right at the Founding and Why It Matters Today.” A longtime member of VBHS, Walker graciously stepped in at late notice when our originally scheduled speaker, Melissa Rogers, reluctantly canceled due to illness. As a beloved mentor and friend to so many of those gathered, Walker celebrated the history and work of VBHS, reminding those gathered of the Baptist role in the development of the First Amendment and religious liberty overall, while expressing concern for the growing influence of Christian nationalism as a threat to religious liberty. The work of the Historical Society to assist Virginia Baptist churches with records preservation is ongoing. While statistics for 2026 are still accruing, as of 12/31/2025, the Society’s church records repository now includes more than 4,622 church record books from 516 different churches (some still being processed). These records and the Society’s archives are constantly consulted by researchers. In 2025, the staff responded to at least 238 different researchers (175 VBHS; 63 University Archives); this figure does not reflect how many times each researcher accessed the materials, as assisted by staff. The collections continue to grow, with 745 items being added to the Baptist files (2025), and 29 regular acquisitions added to the Baptist Collections alone. Numerous archival collections continue to be received by VBHS. Congregations regularly experience major anniversaries, take stock of their existing records, and turn to VBHS for assistance, as do those at the end of their life cycle. We continue to receive church collections and the personal/ family papers of Virginia Baptist figures, including (as of 2025), but not limited to: Rob Sandford; Linwood T. Horne; David Hepburn; Cecil J.D. Parker; the E.Y. Mullins Fellowship; photograph of Rev. Dr. James and Lucinda East, early 20th c. African American missionaries to South Africa; the records of Stockton Memorial Baptist Church in the event of its closing; various books; and materials related to Concord Baptist (175th); Morattico (historic tour booklet); Beale Memorial’s 150th; BGAV 200th Anniversary Committee minutes from Fred Anderson; Old School Particular Baptist BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 67
annuals, Ketoctin; and a large case clock and standing desk made by A. Ray Pentecost, Jr. Research and anniversary support have continued throughout 2026. We are pleased that the University has committed to providing a renovation to our space, slated for mid-year of 2027. This will be an enormous undertaking and requires much advance preparation. VBHS plays a vital role in assisting emerging and established scholars by sharing our expertise and making these unique primary sources available. It remains a major repository for understanding American and religious history, as evidenced by frequent citations in these fields, which have included Pulitzer Prize winning and NYT bestselling works. Nathan Taylor continues to relish visits to churches and elsewhere for preaching and presentations on Baptist heritage, especially for the many anniversaries and other special occasions that occur each year. Highlights since the last report include: Second Baptist, Petersburg; Samaria; Upper King & Queen; Emmaus; River Road; Second Baptist, Richmond; Antioch, Sandston; and Mathews. Church groups and others continued to visit the Virginia Baptist Heritage Gallery for an educational encounter on the history of Baptists in Virginia. In this 250th year, Taylor also had special opportunities to share about the early Virginia Baptist role in the struggle for religious liberty in the founding era, with speaking engagements at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest and the Polegreen Church commemoration of the Petitions of October 1776, including the Petition of Ten Thousand Names organized by Virginia Baptists. He was elected president of the Baptist History and Heritage Society (2026-2027) at its meeting in Atlanta, in May. In July, Taylor participated in the annual gathering of the Baptist World Alliance, held in Toronto, for which he serves as vice chair of the Commission on Baptist Heritage & Identity. Taylor also participated in a Baptist historians’ seminar at Mercer University on biographies of historic Baptists. VBHS is grateful for the ongoing support of BGAV, as we tell our story together. VBHS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
2027 Rev. Dr. Herbert Ponder Rev. Nancy Stanton McDaniel Rev. Ellen Gwathmey Rev. Dr. Adam Tyler Rev. Dr. Tim Madison, 3rd Vice President
2030 Rev. Dr. Valerie Carter Smith Mr. Robert S. Ryland Rev. Dr. Herbert O. Browning, 2nd Vice President Mr. Dennis Sacrey, President Rev. Robert Brown
2028 Mrs. Jacqueline Brooks Rev. Dr. Mike Hatfield Rev. Dr. Robert McKinley Rev. Dr. Dan Carlton Rev. Ann Carter
Ex officio Rev. Dr. Wayne Faison, BGAV, Executive Director Rev. Dr. Joseph T. Lewis, Immediate Past President Rev. Dr. Nathan L. Taylor, VBHS, Executive Director
2029 Rev. Sara Hubble Rev. Alan Miller Mrs. Vivian Clingenpeel, 1st Vice President Mrs. Beth Fogg Rev. John Miller
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AVERETT UNIVERSITY ANNUAL REPORT
AVERETT UNIVERSITY: WHO WE ARE Since 1859, Averett University has served students of all ages, offering more than 30 undergraduate majors, minors and special programs on campus and online, along with 10 graduate programs that help drive the regional economy and quality of life. Averett enrolls approximately 1,000 students from 23 states and 15 countries and has an alumni network of nearly 28,000. Distinctive programs include Aeronautics, Biological Sciences, Business, Equestrian Studies, Health & Sport Science, Nursing and Teacher Education. Our mission is: Enriching minds for lives of purpose and impact across our region and beyond. A NEW ERA IN PRESIDENTIAL LEADERSHIP Dr. Tatia Daniels Granger was installed as Averett University’s 17th President on Aug. 1, 2026, becoming the second woman to serve as president of Averett and the first black president in the institution’s 167-year history. Dr. Granger brings more than three decades of higher education experience as an administrator and faculty member. Most recently, she was a clinical associate professor in organizational behavior at William & Mary’s Raymond A. Mason School of Business, and from 2008-2016 served as William & Mary’s inaugural ombuds. Her career spans enrollment strategy, academic administration and financial oversight, including roles as vice president for enrollment services at Bennett College, chief of staff to the Chief Financial Officer at Duke University and assistant dean for undergraduate admission at UVA. A three-time graduate of the University of Virginia (Ph.D., M.Ed., B.A.), she also founded Granger Leadership Practice, an executive coaching firm, and has chaired UVA’s Alumni Association Board of Managers. SPIRITUAL LIFE Nearing three full years as university chaplain, Rev. Sean Timmons has grown participation in Spiritual Life and deepened its focus on service to the entire Averett community. Weekly offerings include Late Night Worship Services, a Thursday morning Prayer Service and a Sunday evening Christian Student Fellowship, along with exam-week programming and his weekly message, “The Chaplain’s Corner.” During the fall, Spiritual Life partnered with West Main Baptist Church and other local churches and nonprofits on a hurricane relief ministry for northwest North Carolina, and Averett’s Aeronautics department flew the collected supplies directly to the affected areas. Interfaith learning spaces and a prayer and meditation room remain available to all students and members of the Averett community. SIGNIFICANT ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS Aeronautics and AU Aviation Services: Aeronautics remains our fastest-growing major, with enrollment expected to nearly double over the next four years. Averett operates the fixed-base operator (FBO) at Danville Regional Airport, giving students hands-on experience, and is working with the City of Danville and Danville Community College to launch the region’s first Aviation Maintenance Training program in a new facility adjacent to the Averett University Flight Center, scheduled to open in 2027. Center for e-Learning and Professional Credentials: A $670,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education will allow Averett to offer microcredentials and digital badges through noncredit courses that target critical talent needs. Education and K12 Licensure: Averett partnered with Virginia’s K12 divisions and the Virginia Department of Education on the Grow Your Own registered apprenticeship for paraprofessionals, offering online courses whose tuition is covered by VDOE grant funds. Nursing: In May, nearly 40 students graduated from our traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and our Norfolk-based Accelerated BSN program, going on to serve at medical facilities across the region and beyond. AVERETT ATHLETICS Averett student-athletes continue to succeed in the classroom and in competition. In 2025-26, 167 student-athletes earned ODAC All-Academic Team honors with a 3.25 GPA or higher, and 50 earned national and regional academic honors, including College Sports Communicators All-District teams. In competition, Averett recorded 33 all-conference BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 69
selections, one conference rookie of the year, 25 conference weekly awards, 21 ODAC sportsmanship team honorees and five National Wrestling Coaches Association All-Americans. Seven student-athletes earned VaSID All-State recognition, including the men’s golf Rookie of the Year; two wrestlers reached the NCAA Division III Championships for the second straight year; and two softball players earned NFCA All-Region honors. CLOSING MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT TATIA DANIELS GRANGER Averett is ready to meet the moment! For 167 years, Averett has evolved to meet the challenges and opportunities of each era with the faith, grit and generosity of the people who believe in its purpose. We are rebuilding Averett to meet the needs of today’s students, our region and the Commonwealth of Virginia with a focus on four commitments: • Financial responsibility and fortitude: disciplined, transparent decisions that align spending with our mission and build long-term stability. • Academic alignment: focusing on programs where Averett excels and our region needs us most, including aeronautics, nursing and health sciences, teacher education, business and hospitality, all resting on a liberal arts foundation. • Meaningful student engagement: strengthening the relationships, mentoring and campus life that help every student belong, persist and thrive as citizen leaders. • Renewed alumni support: reconnecting with nearly 28,000 alumni and inviting them back as partners, mentors, advocates and investors. We are grateful to the Baptist General Association of Virginia for being a witness to the Averett spirit of resilience. With steady stewardship and a shared resolve, we will build an Averett worthy of its past and ready to meet this moment.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Ms. Emma Maddux Kozlowski, Chair Mr. Hayward Majors, Vice-Chair Dr. Lenora Billings-Harris, Secretary Mr. Michael Adkins Mr. Paul Bowles Dr. Sarah L. Collie Mr. Maurice Ferrell Dr. Angela Hairston Mr. Steve Heatherly Dr. Mark Jones Mr. Vince Kania, Sr. Mr. Donald Merricks Ms. Mary Riddle, Trustee Emeritus Mr. Hampton Wilkins
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BLUEFIELD UNIVERSITY ANNUAL REPORT
Bluefield University continues to experience a season of momentum, growth, and renewal. Located in Bluefield, Virginia, the University remains committed to its historic mission as a Christ-centered learning community that develops servant leaders prepared to transform the world. Over the past year, Bluefield University has advanced its Blueprint for the Future through academic expansion, enrollment growth, campus improvements, and investment in the student experience. These developments are positioning Bluefield to serve students and communities in new ways while remaining firmly rooted in its Christian identity and Baptist heritage. A HISTORIC ACADEMIC MILESTONE One of the most significant achievements in Bluefield University’s history occurred in June 2026 when the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges approved the University to offer doctoral degrees. The approval advanced Bluefield University to Level V status and cleared the way for the launch of the University’s first doctoral programs, the Doctor of Education and Doctor of Business Administration. The inaugural doctoral cohorts began with strong interest, including students pursuing advanced preparation in education and organizational leadership. These programs expand Bluefield University’s academic mission and create new opportunities for Christian leaders to pursue terminal degrees in an environment that integrates faith, learning, leadership, and service. SERVING MORE STUDENTS IN MORE PLACES Bluefield University continues to broaden its reach beyond the traditional campus. During the 2025-2026 academic year, the University served more than 1,600 unique students through traditional undergraduate, online, graduate, professional, and partnership programs. Bluefield University Online has continued its strong trajectory, with enrollment exceeding 540 students in Fall 2026. Students can now access a portfolio of undergraduate and graduate programs designed for working adults and other learners who need flexible pathways to complete their education. At the same time, Bluefield remains committed to the traditional residential college experience. Over the past year and a half, the University has invested more than $7 million in campus renovations, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing the student experience. The University continues to invest in recruitment, retention, student life, athletics, spiritual formation, and campus facilities to create an environment where students can flourish academically, socially, and spiritually. EXPANDING HEALTHCARE AND WORKFORCE PARTNERSHIPS Strategic partnerships continue to play an important role in Bluefield University’s growth. Bluefield’s longstanding relationship with the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine continues to create innovative healthcare education pathways. The Master of Health Science in Anesthesia program prepares students to become anesthesiologist assistants and is delivered in partnership with VCOM at its Carolinas campus in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The University also continues its Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences partnership with VCOM while pursuing additional opportunities in nursing, pharmacy, health sciences, and other high-demand fields. These collaborations reflect Bluefield University’s commitment to addressing workforce shortages throughout Appalachia by preparing qualified professionals who approach their vocations with competence and a commitment to service.\ BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 71
The University has also continued expanding programs designed for adult and graduate learners, including the Master of Arts in Ministry Leadership, which equips pastors, ministry leaders, and others serving the Church. INVESTING IN THE BLUEFIELD EXPERIENCE The transformation of Bluefield University’s campus has continued throughout the past year. After reopening Alumni Hall in 2025, the University completed a comprehensive renovation of Rish Hall, providing another significant improvement to residential life. Renovation work has also begun in additional residence hall spaces as Bluefield continues its multi-year effort to strengthen the quality of student housing. The historic Dome Gymnasium has undergone one of its most significant renewals in decades. Improvements have included resealing and tinting the roof, painting the interior, replacing bleachers, installing upgraded lighting, improving the sound system and digital display capabilities, and preparing for additional work involving exterior doors and restroom renovations. These projects have been made possible through extraordinary philanthropic support from foundations, alumni, friends, churches, and community partners who believe in the University’s mission. FAITH AT THE CENTER Even as Bluefield University grows and changes, the institution’s foundation remains unchanged. Bluefield is a Christ-centered university where faith and learning are intentionally connected. Students participate in chapel, discipleship, service, missions, small groups, and other opportunities designed to encourage spiritual growth and Christian community. Faculty and staff seek to prepare students not simply for careers, but for lives of meaning, leadership, service, and faithfulness. The University remains grateful for its historic relationship with the BGAV and for the churches and individuals throughout the Commonwealth who continue to pray for, encourage, support, and send students to Bluefield University. THE BLUEPRINT CONTINUES Bluefield University believes its best days are still ahead. At the center of that progress remains the same mission that has guided Bluefield for more than a century: developing servant leaders who understand that their education is not simply preparation for a career, but preparation for a life of purpose. Together, we are preparing the next generation of Christian leaders to go further and serve faithfully wherever God calls them. Find more at https://www.bluefield.edu/news-events/news-archive/.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Ms. Anna Abbey Dr. David L. Bailey, Jr. Mrs. Rebecca E. Beckett Mrs. Cindy Carter* Dr. Roger Collier* Mrs. Julie H. Johnson Ms. Elizabeth Keene* Dr. Christopher Lawson Mr. Howard A. Mayo IV Dr. Donna Payne
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Mr. Jackson E. Reasor, Jr. Mrs. Sarah J. Reid Mr. John G. Rocovich, Jr. Mr. Craig F. Stout* Dr. Dixie Tooke-Rawlins Mr. Michael A. Wade Mr. L. Mori Williams Mr. William S. Winfrey, II Mr. K. Lamont Woods * BGAV affiliated
FORK UNION MILITARY ACADEMY ANNUAL REPORT
ABOUT FORK UNION MILITARY ACADEMY Fork Union Military Academy is a private, Christian, college-preparatory boarding school for young men in grades 7 through 12 and postgraduate, located in Fluvanna County, Virginia. Founded in 1898 by prominent Baptist pastor Dr. William E. Hatcher, the Academy remains steadfast in its mission: Our mission is to educate, develop, and inspire young men in a college preparatory, Christian, military environment. Our Corps of Cadets continues to reflect a vibrant, diverse brotherhood. Enrolling young men from across the Commonwealth, across the nation, and representing over 15 foreign countries, approximately 50% of our Corps are young men of color. Regardless of background, each cadet is received with dignity as an individual created in the image of God, held to unyielding behavioral standards, and mentored toward moral and academic excellence. THE ACADEMIC PROGRAM Our academic delivery remains anchored by our distinctive One-Subject Plan for eighth graders through postgraduates. By dividing the school year into five terms and focusing intensely on a single academic discipline for approximately seven weeks, we remove daily fragmentation, build deep intellectual stamina, and instill academic ownership. Seventh graders follow a foundational curriculum structured to prepare them for the rigorous demands of the One-Subject Plan. We are pleased to report that the Academy recently completed its comprehensive 10-year decennial accreditation through the Virginia Association of Independent Schools (VAIS). Receiving full re-accreditation affirms the academic rigor, operational health, and institutional integrity of Fork Union, confirming that our program meets the highest benchmarks in independent education. LEADERSHIP TRANSITION AND INSTITUTIONAL STEWARDSHIP The Academy is currently in a season of purposeful transition as the Board of Trustees conducts a national search for our next president. During this interim period, Colonel Stephen Macek serves as Acting President. Having served Fork Union for more than three decades, Col. Macek provides steady, mission-focused leadership, ensuring that our daily focus on the development of our cadets remains unwavering. We do not sit in a holding pattern; our command structure, faculty, and residential staff are operating with complete alignment and clear momentum. We accept no federal or state operational subsidies, relying instead on wise management, generous benefactors, and the faithful partnership of the Baptist community. BGAV AFFILIATION Since 1913, the Baptist General Association of Virginia has partnered with Fork Union Military Academy in Christian service. While traditional funding models across denominational life have evolved, our shared calling to disciple young men has never been more urgent. Spiritual formation is central to cadet life. The Corps gathers for chapel three times each week, and academic days begin with morning devotion and prayer. Through campus our Christian Leadership series (which brings in speakers to share their testimony with the cadets), Bible studies, a robust FCA program, and partnerships with local churches, our young men learn that genuine Christian leadership is defined by servant leadership and sacrifice. CONCLUDING THOUGHTS We believe the world urgently needs more disciplined, intellectually prepared, and faithful young men anchored in a Biblical worldview. To ensure deserving young men can access this life-changing environment, we invite BGAV congregations to consider partnering with us directly. Families struggle to provide an educational foundation steeped in core Biblical values that can capitalize on the boarding environment to limit negative external forces by prohibiting cell phones and limiting social media.
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Refer: Refer families with young men who would benefit from a structured, Christian environment. Note that the Trustee Scholarship is awarded annually and is completely merit-based scholarship that extends through a young man’s graduation. Congregational Support: Consider sponsoring or co-sponsoring tuition assistance for promising young men from your congregation or local community. Access Scholarship Support: Designate mission offerings or annual gifts to Fork Union’s Access Scholarship Fund to bridge the financial gap for families seeking a Christian boarding education, and who reply on the support of benefactors. Prayer: Pray for our Board of Trustees as they discern the Academy’s next permanent leadership, for our faculty and staff as they mentor and protect the young men in our charge, and for our cadets as they grow into men of character and faith.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Mr. George K. Anas, II, ‘83 Mr. Stephen Ashby, ‘94 Mr. Kendrick Ashton, Jr., ’94 PG Mr. David R. Barrett Mr. Lee S. Briscoe, ‘67 Mr. Peter Congdon, ‘99 COL Thierry G. Dupuis, ‘75 Mr. Edward N. George, Jr., ‘91 Col. Stuart G. Harrison, USA (Ret.), ‘79 Mr. Henry O. Jackson, ‘75 Dr. Harry E. Johnson, Sr. (BGAV) Mr. Martin L. Ledbetter, ‘86 Dr. Jose A. Mera, ‘75 Dr. Adam Metwalli, ‘92 Mr. John Larry Miles Mr. Barry Moore Mr. Chad Percy, ‘83 Mrs. Paige L. Pruett RADM Frank F. Rennie, IV, USNR (Ret.) Mr. Geoffrey S. Stiff Mr. Jamal Thomas, ‘92 Mrs. Allison W. Unnerstall Mr. Richard H. Wall Mr. Jeffrey N. Weatherspoon, ‘74 Mr. Cory Wessel, ‘04
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Trustees Emeriti COL Sammie D. Barr, USAF (Ret.) Mr. James F. Cerza, Jr. Mr. A. Douglas Dalton (BGAV) Dr. Emerson D. Farley, Jr. Mr. J. Wesley Hall, Jr., ‘57 Mr. Curtis Hathaway, ‘55 Mr. David K. Hunt (BGAV) Mr. J. William Price, III, ‘64 Mr. George C. Turner, ‘55 Mr. William J. Vakos, Jr., Chairman Emeritus
HARGRAVE MILITARY ACADEMY ANNUAL REPORT
HARGRAVE AND THE BGAV: A PARTNERSHIP GROUNDED IN FAITH In September 2024, Hargrave Military Academy celebrated 115 years of building young men into leaders of character prepared for lifelong success. The academy’s mission and work are grounded in the institution’s Christian faith and values. In 1913, Hargrave began its relationship with the Baptist General Association of Virginia when the association made its first gift to the Academy. HEALTHY AND GROWING In an educational landscape that offers more choices than ever before, Hargrave remains an attractive option for families seeking a boy-centric Christian education. In short, discerning parents with many options are choosing Hargrave for their young man. FOSTERING ACADEMIC SUCCESS On May 21st and 22nd of the 2025-2026 school year, Hargrave celebrated our newest alumni in our Baccalaureate and Commencement services. Families and friends of our graduating cadets joined us in Cheatham Chapel, where these young men received their diplomas. Like the more than 20 graduating classes that preceded them, the Class of 2026 achieved a 100% college acceptance rate. Our 38 graduates received 144 acceptances to 106 unique colleges or universities, earning over $6.5 million in scholarships. Seventy percent of graduates were offered scholarships, with a median award of $20,000/yr. This year’s college acceptances included a wide variety of schools, including large Christian Universities, smaller faith-based colleges, Senior Military Colleges, flagship public universities, and just about as many flavors as public and private institutions that could be imagined. Notably, 44 of the acceptances for this year’s graduates were to institutions with a strong faith affiliation. The college admissions results are only one metric of the value of a family’s investment of time and resources to place their son in a Christian boarding school environment. In our ongoing efforts to further enhance the experience of our cadets, in the 2026-2027 school year, Hargrave continues to modify our daily schedule to accommodate the needs and passions of today’s youth. The morning now features 90 minutes to provide time for cadets to follow their passions (in athletics), additional study time with faculty, and additional access to academic support. Daily time has been allocated for the Young Life ministry. Our (boarding) school also has Sunday and Wednesday chapel services in addition to partnering with local churches. DISCIPLING YOUNG MEN Discipleship in the Christian faith and worship continue to be hallmarks of the Hargrave experience. Hargrave understands both the power of peer influence and the critical importance of addressing the spiritual needs of young men. Through our Faith Pillar, we seek to help cadets know God, discover their purpose, and live by Christian principles. The Cadet Chaplain Corps provides an important opportunity for peer discipleship and spiritual leadership. Under the supervision of the Academy Chaplain, Cadet Chaplains are equipped to serve as the hands and feet of Christ within the Corps of Cadets. Through devotions, prayer, encouragement, service, and personal example, they help foster a culture in which cadets can grow in their faith while developing as Christian leaders. The Encounter praise band provides another opportunity for cadets to use their gifts in service to God and their fellow cadets. Under the guidance of the Hargrave Music Director, cadets are given opportunities to participate in worship and contribute to the spiritual life of the Academy. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of a Hargrave alumnus, Young Life continues to be an important part of ministry at Hargrave. Through weekly gatherings, relationship-building, special activities, and partnership with local Young Life leadership, cadets have opportunities to explore the Christian faith, encounter Jesus Christ, and grow in their relationship with God. Young Life also provides another avenue for caring adults to intentionally invest in the lives of our young men. BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 75
At Hargrave, faith is intentionally modeled, taught, and practiced. The Cadet Chaplain Corps, Encounter praise band, and Young Life ministry complement our Sunday and Wednesday chapel services, Bible Survey course covering Scripture from Genesis to Revelation, community service opportunities, and partnerships with local churches. Together, these programs create multiple opportunities for cadets to encounter God, grow in their faith, serve others, and develop into leaders of Christian character. HARGRAVE AND THE BGAV: A VALUED PARTNERSHIP In 2024 and 2025, Hargrave was pleased to host a BGAV Impact Mission Camp on our campus. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve these young people as they put their faith into action in our local community. We hope to continue to host them in the future when their mission field focus returns to our area. Hargrave’s administration, faculty, staff, families, and alumni are sincerely grateful for the long-standing bond between Hargrave Military Academy and the Baptist General Association of Virginia. We covet your prayers for the 2026-27 school year, for our ongoing fundraising campaigns, and for the wisdom and patience necessary to build young men into leaders of character prepared for lifelong success. We warmly invite BGAV churches and agencies to partner with us to support young men and their families in their dream of having a Hargrave education. We are grateful for the generosity of the BGAV, its churches, and individuals who directly or indirectly provide support for scholarships and other directed funds. This support makes a unique and otherwise unattainable experience possible for these young men.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The Honorable Ben J. Davenport, Jr., Chairman* The Honorable Randolph Beales Mr. Mike Beck Mrs. Hayako O. Cook Mrs. Jessica Dalton Mr. Proctor Dean Mr. Chuck Dowdy Mr. Jim English Mr. Fin Gaddy Mr. A. W. Hamilton Mrs. Holt Hooper Mr. R. J. Lackey Mr. David Miller Mr. Keith Morgan Mr. Thomas Nichols Dr. John O’Bannon* Mrs. Cindy Cline Reid
ADMINISTRATION Mr. Sloan Gibson, President Mr. Jason Rader, Assistant Head of School Dr. Jimmy Tung, Academic Dean Mr. Ron Beverly, Chaplain LTC Sam Redding, USA, Retired, Commandant of Cadets Mr. Patrick Henry, Athletic Director
* BGAV representative
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LELAND SEMINARY ANNUAL REPORT
SEMINARY WITH THE CHURCH AND FOR THE CHURCH The John Leland Center for Theological Studies (“Leland Seminary”) is excited to share with our faithful BGAV partners that we have moved our main campus to the Baptist World Alliance (BWA) building in Falls Church, Virginia. This move strategically positions Leland to deepen and extend its reach into Baptist life—within Virginia, nationally and globally. Collaborating with our new neighbors—the Baptist World Alliance and NorthStar Church Network—and strengthening relationships with churches throughout Northern Virginia, Leland is better positioned than ever for missional partnership. Leland has long understood its mission as being a seminary with the church and for the church. In addition to equipping clergy and lay leaders to serve and expand God’s Kingdom, we are bringing Baptist theologians together with church, ministry and denominational leaders for fellowship, edification, equipping and innovative partnerships. Our growing partnerships are creating new opportunities to connect theological education directly to the needs of the local church. Examples include developing practical ministry leadership training in partnership with NorthStar and providing biblical and theological learning opportunities with local congregations. It is a time of joy as the local reach of partnership deepens Leland roots, and the global reach of partnership extends Leland’s canopy. This strengthens our ability to prepare women and men to serve faithfully in an increasingly diverse and interconnected church. CELEBRATING CORE PROGRAMS AND GROWTH Leland remains firmly committed to its core Master’s programs—the Master of Divinity (MDiv), Master of Theological Studies (MTS), and Master of Christian Leadership (MCL)—as well as our School of Ministry Diploma programs in English and Spanish. We continue to expand opportunities through Graduate Certificates in Christian Leadership, Biblical Justice Formation, Trauma & Healing Ministry, Worship Arts, Theological Studies and Pastoral Leadership, along with Training Certificates such as our Children’s and Youth Ministry Leadership Certificate. While programs continue to evolve to meet the practical theological needs of students and churches today, Leland remains committed to rigorous theological and pastoral education delivered in formats accessible to working clergy and ministry leaders. In a recent survey measuring satisfaction with their Leland experience, alumni rated the seminary 4.73 out of 5.
We also celebrate the Leland Seminary Class of 2026. These graduates represent the heart of our mission: women and men being equipped to serve Christ and the church faithfully.
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As we lean into Kingdom partnership, Leland is honored to host six BGAV pastors participating in Baylor University’s Truett Seminary first and only Doctor of Ministry cohort in Northern Virginia. Through this partnership, pastors are able to pursue doctoral theological education while remaining connected to their ministries and communities in Virginia. KINGDOM WORK IS TEAM WORK BGAV, because of your generosity of spirit, our students are awarded scholarships, and our institution becomes strengthened by your financial and prayerful support. We are deeply grateful for this longstanding partnership and for the many ways BGAV churches, leaders and associations continue to invest in Leland and our students. We are especially grateful to the Augusta Baptist Association for its scholarship support of students in the Staunton area. We also celebrate the ministry of adjunct professor Rev. Dr. Habacuc Díaz López, who, after graduating 11 Spanishspeaking School of Ministry students in June, recruited another enthusiastic class of students for the fall semester. We are grateful to our institutional partners, including In Trust and EverBless Foundation, whose investments help strengthen Leland for the future. We remain indebted to the rich hospitality of The Church at Clarendon over the past 15 years, even as we celebrate this new season in Falls Church. Finally, we are privileged to serve alongside dedicated faculty and staff and remain well-stewarded by the rich wisdom and heart of our former and current trustees. There is much for which to give thanks. As Psalm 107:1 reminds us: “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” As Leland enters this new chapter, we remain committed to serving the church, strengthening Baptist life, equipping faithful leaders, and cultivating partnerships that advance the Kingdom of God—locally, nationally and globally.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Carl Biggs, Chair Lynn Okagaki, First Vice-Chair Peter Hansen, Second Vice-Chair+ Kenneth Pruitt, President+ Charlotte Benjamin, Secretary*+ Vicki Bohannon+ Chris Cadenhead+ Melvin Harris+ Bryan Jones+ Sam Maxwell*+ Chad Moutray*+ James Pierce+ Randy Shepley*+ Paul Sheppard
* BGAV representative + Trustees who are members of BGAV churches
78 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
OAK HILL ACADEMY ANNUAL REPORT
Oak Hill Academy provides a safe, Christ-centered, nurturing and structured environment to high school-aged girls and boys of all backgrounds who are seeking an academic and cultural alternative to the standard school setting. Our goal is to help our students grow into young men and women who think critically about their place in the world and their contribution to their communities. We are thankful that enrollment at the Academy often serves as a springboard for our student’s growth in body, mind, and spirit. The Academy completed its 147th academic session on May 16, 2026, with 35 graduates receiving high school diplomas and college acceptances. The enduring connection between Oak Hill Academy and Young’s Chapel Baptist Church dates to the very founding of the school. The idea of the Academy was first proposed by the YCBC congregation, and after working for several years to bring the idea to life, the school doors opened in the fall of 1878. Since then, the church and the Academy have enjoyed a seamless relationship of amazing depth. OHA is unique among church-affiliated schools. We are proud of our Baptist affiliation, and the spiritual growth of our students is important to us. That’s why every Sunday morning for the past 147 years our students have made the short walk from campus to the sanctuary of the church to hear God’s Word, and to enter in to and experience congregational life. They stand as we sing the storied hymns of our faith, pray for those on the prayer list, and often add their own concerns to the list. They participate in the workings of the church by singing in the choir, helping pass collection plates or serving on work teams. They help with children’s ministry, work the sound board, and assist with other church activities. Truly what our students experience here is unique among Christian schools and an amazing blessing to them and to the congregants. The very foundation of Oak Hill Academy rests on our heritage as a Baptist, mission-based school, and elements of this heritage are notable throughout our programming. Our mission statement is displayed universally in school literature and refers to our Baptist heritage. Our administration is committed to proudly promoting the tenets of our faith and our dedicated Christian faculty view their work here as an opportunity to minister as they help their students reach their goals. Each day begins with prayer and devotion at our morning assembly. Each graduate is to take at least one religion course as part of our requirements. And there are abundant extracurricular opportunities designed to help students grow in faith, including a youth group, a bible study, and ample opportunities to serve in our community. Our students are regularly involved in such ministries as tutoring at the local elementary school, working at our local food bank, or assisting in church service projects. Our emphasis, in this diverse student body, is to demonstrate how to love our neighbors as ourselves, as Jesus commanded. Oak Hill Academy enrolled 150 students during the 2025-2026 school year, and they hailed from 22 U.S. States, the District of Columbia, and around the world. Our International Students were from 32 countries, including Canada, China, Bermuda, Spain, Argentina, Mexico, Germany, Italy, Japan, and others. Graduates from 2026 are now attending some of the finest colleges and universities in the world. Of particular interest, several years ago the Academy began establishing admissions articulation agreements with regional colleges that shared similar core values as our school. To date we’ve established thirteen such agreements, whereby our students can gain admission, and in some cases, guaranteed scholarships to attend. These agreements have become important in our college placement practices, and we are thankful for our post-secondary partners. In the classroom, Oak Hill Academy’s curriculum is designed to challenge the brightest students with honors courses and dual college credit courses, while also providing structure and support for students who may require additional assistance or accommodation. Our student/teacher ratio is 12 to 1, and each night we host a mandatory study hall to help our students achieve. Student life outside the classroom is filled with clubs and activities, weekend socials, special events, leadership programs, and spirit-building events to keep campus lively and our students well-balanced. The comprehensive fee per student for the 2025-2026 school year was $44,050, and our operating budget was $5,948,275. The BGAV contributed 0.003% of our budget. In our efforts to assist as many students as possible in accessing our school program, Oak Hill awarded over $1,000,000 in scholarships or tuition reduction for students in need of financial assistance. BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 79
One hundred and forty-seven years ago a group of Virginia Baptists envisioned a place of learning and living for the children of this beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain region. And while the constituents of the Academy may now arrive at our campus from afar, the mission of the school continues unabated. We are proud of our Baptist heritage, we accept the challenge of our mission, and we look forward to the continuation of a healthy and productive covenant relationship of ministry with the Baptist General Association of Virginia.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Class of 2027 Mr. Bobby Cheeks Mr. Chuck Swaha Class of 2028 Mr. David Davis Mr. Rodney Halsey* Ms. Mary Thomas
Class of 2028/2031 Mr. Kenny Bowen Mr. Charles Calloway Mr. Steve Ciemcioch Mr. George Faulk
Class of 2029 Mr. Robert Bajorek Mr. Don Gibson Dr. Tom Harvey* Mr. Brian Rosefield
Class of 2033(off during the 2026-2027 year) Mr. Dennis Gambill* Mr. Luke Kurtz Mr. Carl Rosberg*
Class of 2929/2032 Mr. Paul Chambers
Class of 2027/2030 Mr. Todd Fuller* Mr. Joel Jackson* Mr. Marty Parks*
* BGAV representative
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OUR MISSION For 90 years, the Baptist Joint Committee (BJC) has been unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding and advancing religious liberty for every individual. Rooted in a Baptist commitment to soul liberty, we are building a movement toward a just society that cultivates and expands religious freedom for all. The Baptist General Association of Virginia (BGAV) is a longtime and crucial partner in our work,along with numerous BGAV churches and individuals involved in those churches. Our work includes advocacy before the United States Supreme Court, engagement with Congress and the executive branch, mobilization of supporters across the country to engage on issues in their state and local communities, raising awareness through our work with the media, and supporting local organizing efforts. OUR VALUED RELATIONSHIP WITH BGAV BJC deeply values its enduring partnership with Virginia Baptists and extends sincere gratitude for the ongoing collaboration with BGAV. Together, we are dedicated to the shared mission of educating Baptists and the broader community about our rich legacy of religious liberty. While our work is national in scope, we consistently emphasize Virginia’s critical role as a cradle of religious freedom. BGAV’s representation on the BJC Board of Directors ensures that Virginia Baptists play a vital role in shaping and guiding our efforts. This partnership builds upon the deep historical roots of religious liberty that began with the courageous witness of early Virginia Baptists like John Leland, who famously met with James Madison to advocate for the inclusion of religious freedom protections in the Bill of Rights. This tradition of promoting religious liberty continues today through our collaborative efforts with BGAV, ensuring that future generations benefit from the freedoms that Virginia Baptists fought so valiantly to secure. SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS AND DEVELOPMENTS BJC filed amicus briefs in critical litigation at the U.S. Supreme Court. BJC joined a brief in the Landor v. Louisiana Department of Corrections case. The case involved an egregious violation of the free exercise rights of Damon Landor, a devout Rastafarian. Prison officials forcibly shaved his dreadlocks which he had grown for years as part of his religious observance. Mr. Landor filed suit, asserting his rights under the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA). The question before the Court was whether Mr. Landor could sue government officials in their individual capacity for damages for violations of RLUIPA. BJC joined an amicus brief led by Christian Legal Society and supported by law professors Thomas Berg and Douglas Laycock, as well as an ideologically diverse group of amici, from the American Civil Liberties Union to the Alliance Defending Freedom, in support of Mr. Landor. In a June 23, 2026, decision, the Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that Mr. Landor could not receive monetary damages. BJC issued a statement after the decision, noting “We are disappointed in the Court’s decision, which narrows the relief available when prisons violate the religious freedom of those in their custody … BJC and our coalition partners will continue to defend RLUIPA and the religious freedom it guarantees for everyone.” BJC covered the Landor case in several episodes of our awardwinning Respecting Religion podcast. In the case Grand v. City of University Heights, BJC joined an amicus brief filed by Harvard Law School Religious Freedom Clinic in support of Daniel Grand, an Orthodox Jewish man who wanted to host a prayer gathering in his home. After the city issued a cease-and-desist order and otherwise prevented him from hosting his gathering, Mr. Grand sued the city with several claims, including RLUIPA for violation of his free exercise rights. The issue before the court is what kind of finality is required before RLUIPA claims can be decided by federal courts. Our brief emphasizes the importance of at-home worship and prayer in Jewish and Christian traditions and argues that finality requirements from other legal contexts should not be applied in this case because of the harm to core First Amendment protected activity. Our brief includes a quote from Virginia Baptist pastor John Leland and references important Virginia history protecting religious dissenters. BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 81
We have also continued our leadership in opposing state laws mandating the posting of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms. BJC filed briefs in the 5th Circuit U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals (Roake v. Brumley) and the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals (Stinson v. Arkansas). In both briefs, we led a coalition of Christian denominational partners. The U.S. Supreme Court is expected to consider this issue later this term, and BJC will continue our advocacy against government choosing official religious texts. We continue to use creative and impactful communication strategies to bring our perspective on religious liberty, including church-state law and policy, to the broadest audience possible. BJC redesigned our website this past year and continues to use social media channels, email communications, BJC’s flagship magazine, Report from the Capital, and the Respecting Religion podcast series to communicate with various audiences. BJC staff provide regular commentary to media, including Rolling Stone, the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times this past year. The BJC Center for Faith, Justice and Reconciliation successfully hosted our annual BJC Fellows seminar in Richmond, VA and Williamsburg, VA in July 2026. BJC partnered with Dr. Nathan Taylor of the Virginia Baptist Historical Society to provide historical education on Virginia Baptists as part of the program. We are continuing to support local organizing work happening in communities around the country, including through creation of courses to help faith communities better understand their contributions and develop leadership. We support a growing number of local groups committed to religious freedom and opposing Christian nationalism in their communities, with more than 20 local groups in the process of formation, including one group in Central Virginia. BJC also hosts quarterly online meetings for clergy in BJC’s networks to engage different topics and to connect with one another and share ideas. Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Together, we are making a difference in ensuring that faith freedom for all remains a cornerstone of our nation’s values. We look forward to another year of shared ministry and advocacy as we work to protect the freedoms that are foundational to our faith and to our democracy.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES (AS OF SEPTEMBER 2026)
Philip Thompson (Board Chair) Christopher The (Vice Chair) Sofi Hersher Andorsky (Treasurer) Jaimie Crumley (Secretary) Amanda Tyler (ex officio) Rahmah Abdulaleem Sarah Amick* Doug Avilesbernal Paul Baxley Timothy “Tee” Boddie Drew Bongiovanni Thomas Bowen Jim Bunce* Anyra Cano Valoria Cheek David Cooke Leslie Copeland Christopher Crowley Kristen Donnelly Karen Eickhoff
Wayne Faison* George Gilbert Andy Klingenstein Lisa Harris Lee Keisha E. McKenzie Katie Moore Ania Norori Keyon Payton Curtis Ramsey-Lucas Stephen Reeves Jesse Rincones Meredith Stone Philip Thompson Allyson McKinney Timm Samuel Tolbert J. Adam Tyler* Samuel Tolbert Jamie Washam Keisha Patrick Wilson Jeff Woods
* BGAV Representative
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BAPTIST WORLD ALLIANCE ANNUAL REPORT
Our Vision: The Baptist World Alliance (BWA) is a global movement of Baptists sharing a common confession of faith in Jesus Christ bonded together by God’s love to support, encourage, and strengthen one another while proclaiming and living the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit before a lost and hurting world. Our Beginnings: Founded with a vision to unite Baptists from “every land” in mission and service, the Baptist World Alliance (BWA) began in 1905, and draws on all 400 years of shared Baptist history. From its earliest days, the BWA has hosted gatherings and provided opportunities for Baptists from around the world to pray, worship, fellowship, and serve together with a commitment to “One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism.” Our Membership: The BWA is a fellowship of 283 Baptist church organizations in 138 countries and territories comprising 53 million Baptists in 178,000 churches worldwide. Our Mission: Networking the Baptist Family to Impact the World for Christ. We accomplish our mission through the following five ministry areas: • Worship, Fellowship, and Unity • Mission and Evangelism • Aid, Relief, and Community Development • Religious Freedom, Human Rights, and Justice • Theological Reflection and Transformational Leadership WORSHIP, FELLOWSHIP, AND UNITY Centered in Jesus Christ and rooted in deep spiritual life, we strengthen our worldwide family through ongoing gatherings; pastoral presence; mutual friendships; and the cultivation of worship, fellowship, and unity. In the past year, in Worship, Fellowship, and Unity the BWA: • Hosted the BWA Annual Gathering in Toronto, Canada with more than 500 total participants under the theme “The Table of Christ: One Gospel, Many People.” • United more than 10,000 prayer partners weekly in prayer with the BWA Team utilizing the “Baptists One in Prayer” guide, which facilitates prayer for every country in the world over the course of the year. As part of our commitment to multilingual engagement for this prayer movement, the guide is now available in French, Portuguese, and Spanish. • Released the annual BWA Baptist Vulnerability Index, identifying BWA Baptists living in contexts facing the highest levels of war, persecution, hunger, and livelihood. This resource serves as a guide throughout the year for prayer, giving, and advocacy. More than twenty percent of all BWA global Baptists face these realities. MISSION AND EVANGELISM Compelled by the Great Commission, we lead with a passionate commitment to Gospel witness in every context and people group, foster multidirectional partnerships that connect individuals and churches, and encourage global mission and evangelism. In the past year, in Mission and Evangelism the BWA: • Continued to expand the 2033 Acts 2 Movement – a call to Holy Spirit prayer and unprecedented collaboration in global mission. In anticipation of the 2000th anniversary of the birth of the Church, the Acts 2 Movement seeks to mobilize the whole of the Baptist family in prayerful pursuit of a global Pentecost, that in the Holy Spirit, overflows in church renewal and holistic Gospel witness in every language around the world. Each of the five Paths – Bible Path, BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 83
Witness Path, Care Path, Neighbor Path, and Religious Freedom Path – corresponds to one of the BWA’s five core ministry areas. To join the movement, visit www.acts2movement.org. • Facilitated the Global Baptist Mission Network (GBMN), a BWA network representing more than 7,000 missionaries worldwide, aiming to facilitate relationships among Baptist mission leaders and movements, provide thought leadership in the field of mission, identify and reach new mission fields, collaborate between agencies and mission personnel, and curtail resource waste and avoid unnecessary duplication. • Celebrated the month of May as Evangelism Emphasis Month and urged Baptists to focus on united prayer and personal evangelism. • Provided grants to support evangelism initiatives around the world. AID, RELIEF, AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Challenged to generously love our neighbor, we respond to people in need; collaborate in times of crisis; network agencies; support sustainability and creation care; build capacity; empower local church engagement; and resource aid, relief, and community development. In the past year, in Aid, Relief, and Community Development the BWA: • Distributed BWAid grants to projects in both fund categories and stood in solidarity with Baptists around the world. • Responded to an increasing number of disasters resulting in many displaced persons, destruction of property, increased food insecurity and the proliferation of waterborne diseases, disproportionately impacting women and children in already vulnerable communities. • Facilitated the BWA Forum for Aid and Development (BFAD) which was chaired by Dean Miller (BGAV, Virginia). This network of more than 20 Baptist aid agencies mobilized for collaboration and impact. RELIGIOUS FREEDOM, HUMAN RIGHTS, AND JUSTICE Committed to a biblical understanding of the image of God in every person, we defend an ethic of life; support religious freedom for all; stand in solidarity with the marginalized; advocate at every level; train and network proactively; and mobilize for religious freedom, human rights, and justice. In the past year, in Religious Freedom, Human Rights, and Justice the BWA: • Deepened and expanded our high-level advocacy and engagement on behalf of those facing persecution around the world through the 21Wilberforce Global Freedom Center. • Developed more than 100 online tools, stories and initiatives to help stand with the persecuted around the world. • Facilitated several rounds of consultations and dialogues in Nigeria with senior Christian and Muslim leaders and government officials, and hosted a consultation with 23 Nigerian pastors, lawyers, imams, academics, and NGO representatives to discuss the documentation of violence against religious communities. • Led a training in South Asia to equip 18 Baptist convention leaders with essential peacemaking tools and knowledge and traveled throughout the region to meet with academic leaders, church representatives, and community advocates gathering insights and support for the establishment of a peacebuilding center in the region. • Continued BWA Women’s Stand Against Domestic Violence Initiative, including co-hosting a workshop at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, to raise awareness and provide resources to prevent violence against women. Find out more at www.StandAgainstDV.net. THEOLOGICAL REFLECTION AND TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP Called to discipleship, we advance multicultural and multilingual training, empower next generation leaders, encourage meaningful dialogue and praxis, and engage in relevant theological reflection and transformational leadership. In the past year, in Theological Reflection and Transformational Leadership the BWA: • Established, in partnership with Baylor University, a first-in-the-world BWA Program and Center to offer clergy and lay leaders training on global Baptist history, polity, beliefs, leadership, evangelism, and integral mission. Housed in Truett Seminary, the Center will offer academic and scholarly education, research, support, and practical engagement 84 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
to educate and support leaders in the global Baptist movement, including the development of a graduate-level online BWA Global Leadership Certificate. This year Dr. Stephen Stookey was appointed as a director for this initiative. • Continued to enroll students in the Horizons program, a 24-module online training offered in 14 languages to equip youth and children’s leaders to effectively reach and disciple the next generation. Offered at no cost, the training addresses both practical and theological facets of ministry leadership. To date, more than 1,000 students have participated worldwide. • Mobilized 14 BWA Commissions of more than 350 global Baptist leaders around the world working together to address the most critical issues today such as evangelism and mission, religious freedom, peace building, racial justice, doctrine and theology, and dialogue with other Christian worldwide communions. • Adopted four resolutions at the BWA Annual Gathering in Toronto, Canada: • Empowering and Caring for People with Disabilities and Special Needs • Serving Vulnerable Children • Integral and Polycentric Mission as Guiding Missional Principles • Just Peace and Accountability Among Nations This is a brief glimpse into the kingdom impact of the BWA, accomplished by the grace and power of God with the faithful support of Virginia Baptists. Thanks be to God!
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
STEWARDS Karl Johnson, BWA Chair, Jamaica Lynn Green, BWA Vice Chair, United Kingdom Jerry Carlisle, Trustee Committee Chair, USA Elijah M. Brown, General Secretary & CEO, USA (Virginia) TRUSTEE COMMITTEE (ABOVE, PLUS) Pastora N. Acosta-Mendez, Honduras Ernest Adu-Gyamfi, Ghana Fernando Brandão, Brazil John Kubichek, USA (Virginia) Johnathan Hemmings, Jamaica Melody Maxwell, Canada/USA Lone Møller-Hansen, Denmark Wissam Nasrallah, Lebanon Samaresh Nayak, India Albert Reyes, USA Jan Sæthre, Norway Adebola Samson-Fatokun, Nigeria Warren Stewart, USA
Additional BWA governance includes a Global Council of approximately 400 people with representatives from all 283 Member Partners in 138 countries and a Leadership Council of approximately 70 people. VIRGINIA BAPTISTS ON BWA GLOBAL COUNCIL, LEADERSHIP COUNCIL, TRUSTEE COMMITTEE, COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS, 2025-2030: James Baucom, Elijah Brown, Valerie Carter Smith, John Kubichek, Joseph Lewis, Jesse McCain, Laura McDaniel, Anna Miller, Dean Miller, Elizabeth Newman, Craig Sherouse, Andrey Shirin, James Somerville, Nathan Taylor, John Upton, Angelique Walker-Smith, and David Washburn.
BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 85
CAMPBELL UNIVERSITY DIVINITY SCHOOL ANNUAL REPORT
Since 1996 the Campbell University Divinity School has endeavored to answer its call by preparing women and men responding to God’s call to ministry. More than 1000 students have graduated to become alumni, serving in church and community within a variety of roles and job descriptions. We celebrate our history, thankful for our partnership with the Baptist General Association of Virginia, and are excited for what the future holds as God grants us a Heart for the Not Yet (Acts 17:6b). With many options available for theological education, Campbell University Divinity School believes its degree programs offer the perfect mix of in-person and online choices. The curriculum of the Divinity School integrates classical theological studies with the professional and practical education needed for effective ministry in the 21st century. Throughout the curriculum, students are led to reflect on their calling, to increase their understanding of Christian commitment and vocation, and to deepen their faith and spiritual relationship with God and others. We’ve all been there: looking at the future, wondering about God’s best for us. Or, finding success in our career, but asking whether there is more. So much of our lives are invested in our work - we want it to be full of meaning. But how do we integrate our spiritual lives and our professional pursuits? Campbell Divinity School has a plan. Each August, a new cohort of Master of Arts in Faith & Leadership Formation students begins a 2-year program of personal and professional transformation. Our goal is to equip students for lives of meaning and purpose, shaped by the truths of the Christian faith, so they can confidently “let their life speak” and dare to lead. Maybe this feeling sounds familiar: You have a restless sense that God is calling you to something more, but you aren’t sure what that “something” is or what it looks like? Or, you have a deep desire to serve, but feel unprepared - or maybe even inadequate - for the task? Campbell Divinity School can help. Our conviction is that the call to ministry is the call to prepare for ministry - and an essential part of that preparation is clarifying the call.
Dr. Barry Jones, Dean That’s why the Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree weaves together classical disciplines (Bible, history, theology) with practical ministry (leadership, mission, and worship) and spiritual formation - all in the context of a warm and supportive community. The result is readiness for a life of ministry and openness to wherever God’s call might lead. Do you desire to dive into the riches of theological education, but you are concerned about the length of the traditional Master of Divinity curriculum? The Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (MACM) may be the solution you are seeking. While the strength of the MDiv is its breadth and its ability to prepare students for a wide variety of ministerial paths, the advantage of the MACM is its focus. Designed for students with specific ministerial goals in mind, the MACM offers a less comprehensive but more streamlined approach to theological education. Students have the opportunity to concentrate on one of the following areas: Christian Education, Church Music and Worship, Congregational Leadership, Ministry to 86 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
Children, or Teaching the Bible. Students have the opportunity to select from two formats of delivery for the MACM. The program is offered in a traditional in-person format, as well as in an online-hybrid format. Frontline ministry is hard. In the best of times, it demands creativity, bravery, and wisdom. In turbulent times of change... it may be one of the toughest jobs on earth. If you are an experienced minister, none of this is news to you. But perhaps that is why you need this degree. More than an honorific title, the Doctor of Ministry provides you with the opportunity to join with a cohort of other seasoned ministers to read great texts, to “talk shop,” and to support one another in your growth as a leader and practitioner. What is more, the DMin guides you in designing a ministry project that deepens your expertise in your ministerial context. Maybe this is the perfect moment to “sharpen your tools” for the work ahead. Discover your path while exploring ours ...with the Discover Divinity Experience. Serving as a discernment pathway for prospective students, creating space for individuals to listen, learn, and explore their calling. This new initiative allows individuals discerning a call to theological education to enroll in one Divinity School course in Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 for a reduced rate of $500 per course, with options available both online and in person. Should they later pursue a master’s-level degree at Campbell, these courses can be applied toward their program. An abbreviated application process and a completed bachelor’s degree are required. Designed to help prospective students explore their vocation and determine whether a master’s program is the right next step, this program offers a meaningful, low risk pathway into theological study. One of the biggest questions individuals ask as they consider Divinity School is, “How will I fund my graduate theological education?” It is the hope of Campbell University Divinity School that graduate theological education is a financially feasible option for our students. Master-level students currently receive financial assistance awards from the Divinity School that cover 75% to 100% of tuition and fees. The Divinity School seeks to be as generous as possible with financial assistance, making awards based on the merit and expressed need of each student. Because of the generosity of BGAV churches and individuals, theological education is within reach. Campbell University Divinity School is also eager to serve churches - not just through its degree offerings, but through a variety of resources, programs, and opportunities. Our faculty and staff regularly assist congregations through pulpit supply, retreat leadership, Bible studies, consultation, topical studies, and interim pastorates. We understand our calling as a school to be a resource for churches, and we invite churches to call on us to help them be the body of Christ, carrying out God’s mission in the world. 30 Years in the Making The Divinity School officially opened on August 19, 1996, initially offering elective courses until the beginning of the formal curriculum the following year. Thirty-five founding students enrolled the first year. These students, and those who enrolled in the fall of 1997, constituted the Charter Class of eighty-four students.
Graduation & Hooding Service 2026 On an evening celebrating dreams accomplished and new beginnings, Campbell University Divinity School’s Spring commencement ceremony was held inside a packed Hobson Performance Center on Friday, May 8. Thirty-four candidates earned their graduate degrees - MACM (2), MAFLF (8), DMin (7), MDiv (14), and dual degrees from the Divinity School and other schools within Campbell University (3). 30th Anniversary Celebration - April 15, 2027 BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 87
GARDNER-WEBB UNIVERSITY ANNUAL REPORT
Introduction/Overview Founded in 1905 by visionary community and Baptist leaders, Gardner-Webb University has grown from a Baptist high school into a nationally recognized Christian university committed to academic excellence, leadership development, and service. Guided by its motto, Pro Deo et Humanitate (“For God and Humanity”), the University continues preparing students to become leaders who use their gifts and talents to make a positive impact in their professions, churches, communities, and around the world. As Gardner-Webb enters a new chapter in its history, the University remains grounded in its Christian mission while embracing opportunities to strengthen the student experience, expand educational access, and serve the broader region. Throughout the past year, the campus community experienced significant milestones in leadership, philanthropy, academic partnerships, student achievement, athletics, and Christian service. These accomplishments reflect God’s continued faithfulness and the dedication of faculty, staff, students, alumni, donors, and friends who share a commitment to the University’s mission. Leadership and Institutional Momentum A defining moment for Gardner-Webb this year was the formal inauguration of President Nathaniel J. Evans as the University’s 14th president. The investiture ceremony, held in April 2026, brought together students, faculty, alumni, trustees, community leaders, and guests from across the region to celebrate both a new era of leadership and the University’s enduring commitment to Christian higher education. Evans officially assumed the presidency in November 2025 following a national search. During his inaugural address, he emphasized gratitude, shared purpose, and confidence in Gardner-Webb’s future. He challenged the campus community to build upon the University’s strong foundation while remaining focused on its Christ-centered mission and the vision of helping students “Become More.” Stewardship, Generosity, and Campus Investment The generosity of alumni, donors, churches, and friends continues to create transformational opportunities for GardnerWebb students. During the past year, the University received two significant gifts that will strengthen its future and expand opportunities across campus. A $1.47 million investment supported the future of the Godbold College of Business through initiatives that enhance academic excellence and student success. In addition, a $1.5 million commitment advanced strategic priorities throughout the University, including residence hall renovations, a comprehensive renovation of the primary weight room located in the football center, academic enhancements, and other projects designed to improve the student experience. The spirit of generosity was also evident during Double Dawg Day 2026. More than 1,300 alumni, parents, employees, students, and friends united in support of Gardner-Webb, contributing more than $2.5 million for scholarships, academics, athletics, and campus initiatives. The annual day of giving continues to demonstrate the deep commitment of Bulldog Nation to the mission of the University and the success of its students. Gardner-Webb also celebrated a major financial milestone as its endowment surpassed $90 million. This achievement reflects years of careful stewardship and the confidence donors have in the University’s mission. The continued growth of the endowment strengthens Gardner-Webb’s ability to serve future generations of students while providing financial stability and support for strategic priorities. Academic Growth and Community Partnerships Gardner-Webb continues to invest in educational opportunities that serve students throughout the region while creating new pathways to higher education.
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This year, the University established the Gryphon-Bulldog Collaborative with Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy. Through the partnership, students earn Gardner-Webb college credit while remaining on their high school campus. University faculty teach courses through the program, helping students gain confidence in college-level academics while reducing future educational costs. The University also launched a partnership with Pinnacle Classical Academy through the Searight Professional and Continuing Education Program. Students participated in the Academic Skills Accelerated Program (ASAP), which included courses in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, economics, medical terminology, and American history. The program combined classroom learning with mentorship, professional development, and real-world experiences designed to strengthen college and career readiness. Gardner-Webb’s commitment to academic excellence also received national recognition this year. The University’s undergraduate elementary teacher preparation program earned an A+ rating from the National Council on Teacher Quality, placing it among a select group of programs recognized for excellence in evidence-based literacy instruction. The distinction reflects the College of Education’s commitment to preparing future educators with research-based practices that strengthen literacy outcomes and serve schools throughout North Carolina and beyond. Christian Life and Missions Christian service remains central to the Gardner-Webb experience. Through the Office of Christian Life and Service, students participated in mission opportunities that allowed them to put their faith into action while serving communities both locally and internationally. Student teams traveled to Juan Dolio in the Dominican Republic, Orlando, Fla., and Kisumu, Kenya. In Kenya, students partnered with North Carolina Baptists on Mission through the Houses of Hope ministry, helping construct homes while sharing the Gospel and encouraging local communities. In the Dominican Republic, students worked alongside SCORE International through service projects and church ministries. Another team volunteered at Give Kids the World Village in Florida, serving children with critical illnesses and their families through simple acts of care and kindness. The University’s missions footprint also expanded into a new country this year as a Gardner-Webb team traveled to Argentina in partnership with SCORE International. Unlike traditional mission projects centered primarily on service activities, the Argentina trip focused on evangelism, discipleship, and personal faith conversations. Students spent months preparing to share their testimonies and the Gospel before engaging with university students, families, and community members throughout the week. Through conversations in parks, schools, churches, and community gathering places, students discovered greater confidence in sharing their faith while building meaningful cross-cultural relationships. These experiences continue to shape students into servant leaders who carry their faith into every aspect of life and support the University’s commitment to fulfilling the Great Commission. Athletic Excellence and Strategic Growth Gardner-Webb student-athletes continued to excel in competition, the classroom, and service during the 2025-26 academic year. Several student-athletes earned conference and regional recognition, highlighting the University’s commitment to developing the whole person. Among the year’s accomplishments, women’s soccer goalkeeper Savannah Dixon became the first Runnin’ Bulldog to earn Big South Goalkeeper of the Year honors, while sophomore wrestler T.K. Davis was named Southern Conference Wrestler of the Year. Women’s basketball head coach Terri Williams earned Big South Co-Coach of the Year recognition, and track and field standouts Blaine Blose and Jonathan Timpson were recognized as Big South Scholar-Athletes of the Year. Excellence in the classroom remained a hallmark of Bulldog Athletics. Swimmers Sara-Michael Jann and Jacob Jensen received the prestigious George A. Christenberry Award, presented to graduating student-athletes with the highest undergraduate grade-point averages in the conference. Jann completed her Gardner-Webb career with a perfect 4.0 GPA, while women’s basketball student-athlete Jaelyn Acker received the Kay Yow Servant Leader Award for her commitment to service and leadership. Looking toward the future, Gardner-Webb announced a strategic restructuring of its athletics offerings designed to strengthen the University’s position within the evolving Division I landscape. The University will add women’s flag BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 89
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD ANNUAL REPORT
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MCAFEE SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY AT MERCER UNIVERSITY ANNUAL REPORT
When Jesse Mercer founded Mercer University in 1833, he and other Georgia Baptist leaders envisioned an institution that would provide students with a classical and theological education. Their concern was for young preachers and for members of area Baptist churches. Mercer knew these churches desperately needed pastor-leaders who understood scripture and could clearly articulate their Christian beliefs. Over the intervening years, the institution begun by Jesse Mercer has developed into a university of far-reaching influence, while remaining committed to an educational environment that embraces the historic Baptist principles of intellectual and religious freedom. Today, more than 9,000 students are enrolled in 12 schools and colleges on campuses in Macon, Atlanta, Columbus, and Savannah; three medical school sites in Macon, Savannah and Columbus; and at four Regional Academic Centers around the state. In recent years, both pastors and students who seriously examined the opportunities for seminary-level training expressed a need for new educational alternatives within the Baptist tradition. After careful consideration of the issues and after an extensive feasibility study, the University’s Board of Trustees in June of 1994 voted to establish a School of Theology. The McAfee School of Theology at Mercer University attracts students who have looked critically at the options and who seek a theological education that will best prepare them for ministry in the next century. McAfee School of Theology offers the following degrees: • Master of Divinity (Residence and Online) • Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (Residence and Online) • Master of Theological Studies (Residence and Online) • Doctor of Ministry (Hybrid) In addition to Masters Degrees, McAfee offers the following Graduate Certificate Programs: • Theological Studies • Spiritual Care • Church Leadership • Ethics • Trauma and Theology One of our fastest-growing options is with our Combined Degree Programs: • MDiv and Master of Business Administration • MDiv and Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling • MDiv and Master of Science in Organizational Leadership • MDiv and Master of Music in Church Music • MACM and Master of Science in Organizational Leadership • MTS and Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling • MTS and Master of Music in Church Music McAfee includes over 1000 alumni, approximately 125 students, seventeen full-time and adjunct faculty, and a devoted staff. Churches throughout the southeast support the school in their budget and hundreds of other individuals faithfully give to scholarships, operations or other school-related causes.
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McAfee has more than $29 million in endowments and this previous year received $240,000 in gifts to the annual fund and an additional $765,000 towards scholarships and other endowed gifts. Four years ago McAfee received a grant just under one million dollars from the Lilly Foundations “Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative.” Three years ago McAfee received a grant from the Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center to work with the School of Medicine in the area of faith and healthcare. This grant was for nearly $500,000.
McAfee School of Theology is grateful for its partnerships with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship National, Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Georgia, Alliance of Baptists, Baptist Women in Ministry, CenterForm Atlanta, New Baptist Covenant, Passport Camps, and Seminary Stewardship Alliance.
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football and women’s acrobatics and tumbling, creating approximately 80 new participation opportunities for studentathletes. Mike Brown was named the inaugural head coach for women’s flag football, while Molly Hanley was selected to lead the new acrobatics and tumbling program. Student Achievement and Commencement One of the University’s greatest measures of success remains the achievements of its students. During the 2025-26 academic year, Gardner-Webb celebrated more than 800 graduates across fall and spring commencement ceremonies. Nearly 300 graduates were recognized in December 2025, with more than 500 participating in commencement exercises in May 2026. These graduates leave Gardner-Webb equipped not only with professional knowledge and skills but also with a deeper understanding of faith, purpose, leadership, and service. Looking Ahead As Gardner-Webb University continues its next chapter, there is a strong sense of optimism across campus. Through faithful stewardship, strategic investments, academic innovation, Christian service, and a steadfast commitment to students, the University is positioned to move confidently into the future. The University’s momentum is reflected in the generosity of its supporters, the accomplishments of its students, the dedication of its faculty and staff, and the confidence of alumni and friends who believe in its future. Together, as One Webb, Gardner-Webb University will continue building upon its Baptist heritage, serving students with excellence, and preparing future generations to live lives marked by faith, purpose, leadership, and service. Pro Deo et Humanitate.
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MINISTERING TO MINISTERS FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT
Since 1994 Ministering to Ministers has provided support to ministers, their families, and congregations, during one of the most traumatic crises in ministerial life: a forced termination from a church or place of ministry. Part of the leadership programming of the Center for Lifelong Learning at Columbia Theological Seminary, this ministry offers help, hope and renewal for ministers in crisis. Ministering to Ministers offers spiritual, emotional, and legal guidance to clergy and their families. Supports include three free sessions of pastoral counseling with a team clinician, a pro-bono consultation with an attorney to discuss severance and other issues, and a subsidized 4-day retreat for clergy and their spouses. The evaluation comments below from a recent retreat express clearly the profound value of the retreat experience: • Thank you for the truly sage, welcoming an inclusive space. You have given me something so rare and needed at this time in my life. I wish to create the same for others. Thank you for being kind and allowing us to express needs and be ourselves. • Thank you. I was not sure what I was going to encounter but you all created a safe space for me to show up as myself. I needed all the teaching, tactical experiences to locate myself. I know I’ve taken an important step forward. I’m departing most secure and confident in trusting God for next steps of healing. Thank you. • Holy ground, transformative, the space we were allowed to process to move the movement broken wounded to being healed • This exceeded my expectations and has made a profound impact on my disposition, my perspective and my overall spiritual self. I’m even grateful for what was painful. This was profoundly answered prayer. Almost like God show me a redeeming of time- I got some advanced healing. Ministering to Ministers is dedicated to transforming these debilitating and destructive experiences to heal and transform the relationships between pastors and churches. For many participants, it redeems the possibility of continuing in a ministerial vocation. Ministering to Ministers helps churches, associations, and BGAV pastors through: • The Wounded Ministers Retreat for Clergy and Spouses. Held annually Richmond, VA and Atlanta GA (and, when needed, Montreat NC), this signature event offers clergy and their spouses an opportunity to share in a restorative experience with ministry peers. Led by trained facilitators, the retreat offers peer group support and group therapy led by psychiatrists or psychologists. 32 ministers and spouses attended the two retreats held in 2025-26, and 12 seasoned pastors and clinicians provided compassionate leadership for these events. • Providing immediate support to clergy and their families who are experiencing personal or professional crisis due to deteriorating congregation--clergy relationships through counseling and referrals to legal counsel if necessary. Over 32 pastors and ministers called MTM seeking support during 2025-2026. 19 of these individuals sought a pastoral counseling referral through MTM and 11 availed themselves of legal counsel. • Offering programs and courses for personal and professional development focused on pastoral intelligence, vocational development, and conflict transformation. In 2025-26, MTM offered “Pastor, Do You Have a Minute?” a series on clergy and mental health. Discernment is underway among MTM leadership to design additional opportunities and resources to support participants post-retreat. • Offering coaching programs to raise the emotional maturity and conflict transformation skills of all parties in churchminister relations. These programs are designed to promote health and conflict prevention between clergy and their churches by establishing strong initial foundations, healthy dispute resolution, and mediation. Ministering to Ministers comes alongside ministers to affirm the individual’s worth and the authenticity of their call, amid the challenges in ministry. We strive to reclaim ministers wounded in toxic situations and forced terminations through the accompaniment and resources we provide. As a result of this support, we witness clergy able to continue 94 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
to respond to God’s call to service and ministry. Many of these ministers are enabled to resolve situations and remain in ministry – some to new churches, some remaining in their current pastorate, and some to serve in new work or positions. In summary, Ministering to Ministers provides for the BGAV, its pastors and ministers, support and the hope for healthier clergy-church relationships, renewal, leave-taking without conflagration, and, importantly, retention of terminated pastors for church service. Ministering to Ministers Center for Lifelong Learning Columbia Theological Seminary
BOARD OF TRUSTEES (2026)
The Rev. Elizabeth Goodrich MDIV’03, Chair The Rev. Dr. Brian Henderson, Vice Chair The Rev. Dr. Kathy Wolf Reed MDIV’09, DMIN’23, Secretary The Rev. Denise Anderson The Rev. Katie Owen Aumann MDIV’11 The Rev. Joe Clifford MDIV’97 The Rev. Laura Smith Conrad MDIV’98 Mr. George Dunaway Ms. Florida Ellis The Rev. Dr. Joe Evans MDIV’06, DMIN’26 The Rev. Victor Feliberty-Ruberte Ms. Michele Garren The Rev. Dr. Guy Griffith DMIN’00 The Rev. Christopher Henry MDIV’07 The Rev. Dawn Martin Hyde MDIV’12 Dr. Lesa A. Kastler The Rev. Michael D. Kirby MDIV’03 The Rev. Rebekah Close LeMon MDIV’03 The Rev. Dr. Eudóxio Mendes dos Santos Júnior The Rev. Danny Murphy DMIN’95 The Rev. Dr. Rodger Nishioka Mr. John Oglesby The Rev. David J. Powers MDIV’10 Ms. Kim Rometo Mr. Alan Rousseau The Rev. Dr. Sam Rutland DMIN’89 The Rev. Dr. Joseph Scrivner Mr. T. Clark Simmons Ms. Clarie Tate The Hon. Alan Thornburg The Rev. Rafael Lemos Viana Mr. Mel Walker The Rev. Dr. Tom Walker MDIV’89 Ms. Magda Yrizzary Dr. Anna Carter Florence, Incoming Faculty Representative Ms. Vincine J Brown, MDIV’27, Incoming Student Government Association President
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2026 BGAV BOOK OF REPORTS
CONSTITUTION/ BYLAWS OF BGAV
• CONSTITUTION/BYLAWS • AMENDED AND RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
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CONSTITUTION/BYLAWS
BAPTIST GENERAL ASSOCIATION OF VIRGINIA
ARTICLE I
Name
The name of this body shall be the Baptist General Association of Virginia, hereinafter referred to as the General Association. ARTICLE II
Purpose
The object of the General Association shall be to furnish the Baptist churches of the General Association a means of cooperation for the propagation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and for the advancement of the Redeemer’s Kingdom by all methods in accord with the Word of God. There shall be full recognition of the autonomy of the local churches. ARTICLE III
Meetings and Composition Section A: Meetings The General Association shall meet annually. Special meetings may be called by the president or a vice president with the concurrence of a majority of the officers of the General Association. Meetings and voting may take place in person and/ or electronically in accordance with applicable law. Section B: Composition The General Association shall be composed of the officers of the General Association and messengers elected by Baptist churches which follow the New Testament teaching of salvation by grace and believer’s baptism by immersion, and which cooperate with the General Association. Each church contributing financially at least $500 during the previous fiscal year, according to the treasurer’s report, to the Virginia portion of the Cooperative Missions Budget shall be entitled to two (2) messengers; to a total of three (3) messengers for $750; a total of four (4) messengers for $1000, and to one (1) more messenger for each additional $600; provided that no church shall be entitled to more than fifteen (15) messengers. If $500 is more than two percent (2%) of a church’s total annual receipts, such church is entitled to two (2) messengers, provided it contributes financially at least two percent (2%) of its total annual receipts to the Virginia portion of the Cooperative Missions Budget. The Cooperative Missions Budget as adopted by the General Association is the preferred way Virginia Baptists express their unity in mission and ministry. Cooperative Missions is Virginia Baptists’ long-standing commitment to the Cooperative Program. Section C: Cooperating Churches Cooperating churches of the General Association shall be identified as one of the following, and shall be entitled to benefits, publications and services as indicated: Participating – A church contributing financially to the Virginia portion of the Cooperative Missions Budget shall be named on the group exemption roster for IRS as exempt from Federal income tax under 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code under the General Association’s blanket exemption from Federal income tax. Such a church shall be eligible to participate in annuity benefits for staff, and receive all publications and services. Watch care - A church unable to contribute financially, as a new start and/or hardship, to the Virginia portion of the Cooperative Missions Budget may be named on the group exemption roster for IRS as exempt from Federal income tax under 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code under the General Association’s blanket exemption from Federal income tax; may receive annuity benefits for staff, and publications and services for up to five (5) years in accordance with policy; and may receive mentoring and/or shepherding for proactive special ministry needs. 98 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
Affiliate – A church contributing financially only one (1) of the three (3) preceding fiscal years to the Virginia portion of the Cooperative Missions Budget shall be named on the group exemption roster for IRS as exempt from Federal income tax under 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code under the General Association’s blanket exemption from Federal income tax; however, such a church shall not be entitled to receive annuity benefits for staff or to receive publications and services. If such a church makes no contributions financially for five (5) years to the Virginia portion of the Cooperative Missions Budget, that church shall be removed from the list of churches named on the group exemption. A church shall be deemed to have contributed financially when it has given either (a) at least $500, or (b) at least two percent (2%) of its total annual receipts, during the previous fiscal year, to the Virginia portion of the Cooperative Missions Budget. ARTICLE IV
Officers
Section A: Officers of the General Association The officers of the General Association shall be a president, first and second vice presidents, an executive director, a treasurer, and a clerk. 1. President. Upon nomination from the floor, the president of the General Association shall be elected for a one (1) year term on the second day of the annual meeting of the General Association. 2. Vice-Presidents. Upon nomination from the floor, the first vice president shall be elected for a one (1) year term at the annual meeting of the General Association. Upon nomination from the floor, the second vice president shall be elected for a one (1) year term at the annual meeting of the General Association. 3. Clerk. Upon nomination from the floor, the clerk shall be elected for a one (1) year term at the annual meeting of the General Association. 4. Executive Director. The executive director shall be nominated by the Virginia Baptist Executive Board, hereinafter referred to as the Executive Board, shall be elected by the General Association, and shall serve until his/her successor is elected. Nominations for this office may be offered from the floor of the General Association any year at the time of the nomination of its annually elected officers. 5. Treasurer. The treasurer shall be nominated by the Executive Board, shall be elected by the General Association, and shall serve until his/her successor is elected. Nominations for this office may be offered from the floor of the General Association any year at the time of the nomination of its annually elected officers. The treasurer shall receive all funds contributed to the General Association, pay over such amounts as are specified by the contributors for particular uses according to their directions (provided that, in the opinion of the treasurer, said uses comply with accepted General Association causes), distribute any amount not specified according to the instructions of the General Association, and make an annual report of all receipts and disbursements. All checks for paying of funds of the General Association shall be signed by the treasurer and countersigned by such other persons as may be designated by the Executive Board. The treasurer shall ensure that the duties of stewardship education and financial resources development are performed. The treasurer shall serve under the direction of the executive director and shall perform such other fiscal and management duties as may be assigned by the executive director. Section B: General Provisions 1. All nominees shall be resident members of Baptist churches contributing financially to the Virginia portion of the Cooperative Missions Budget. 2. Multiple nominations for any one office shall be elected by ballot. Single nominations for one office shall be elected by voice vote. A majority vote of those present and voting shall be required for election to all offices. 3. Election of other officers shall follow in order after the election of the president. 4. No seconding speeches shall be permitted for any nomination. BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 99
5. Elected officers shall assume their respective offices at the close of the annual meeting at which they are elected, and hold office for a term of one (1) year or until their successors are elected. 6. In case of the death, resignation, disability or ineligibility of the president, the vice presidents in the order named shall succeed to the office of president and shall complete the term of said office. 7. In case of the death, resignation, disability or ineligibility of the first vice president and/or the second vice president, or of the succession of either to the office of president, the resulting vacancy or vacancies shall be filled by the Executive Board for the unexpired term(s). 8. In case of the death, resignation, disability or ineligibility of the executive director, treasurer, or clerk, the Executive Board shall make provisions for the continuance of the work until the office is filled by election at a General Association annual meeting. 9. The responsibilities of the officers of the General Association shall be those usual to the respective offices, plus those specifically outlined in the Constitution/Bylaws. The president and executive director shall be non-voting ex officio members of all committees of the General Association. ARTICLE V
Virginia Baptist Executive Board Section A: Members by Virtue of Office The members by virtue of office shall be the president, the first vice president, the second vice president, the immediate past president, the executive director, and the treasurer. Section B: Members from the General Association There shall be fifteen (15) members at large from the General Association. Upon nomination by the Executive Board, five (5) members shall be elected annually by the General Association for three (3) year terms. Four nominees shall be from among the candidates submitted by the Mission Council and the fifth nominee may be one of the candidates submitted by the Mission Council or another eligible Virginia Baptist. A member having served three (3) consecutive terms shall not be eligible for reelection until at least one (1) year has elapsed following his/her previous service. The nominees shall reflect a wide representation of Virginia Baptists, including both laypersons and ministers. Any vacancy occurring between the sessions of the General Association may be filled by the Executive Board from among the candidates submitted by the Mission Council for the remainder of the unexpired term. Section C: Chair of the Executive Board Upon nomination by the Executive Board, the chair shall be elected annually by the General Association for a one (1) year term. The chair shall be a current member of the Executive Board. Section D: Meetings The chair shall set the date, place and time of meetings. A majority of voting members shall constitute a quorum. Meetings and voting may take place in person and/or electronically in accordance with applicable law. Section E: Responsibilities 1. The Executive Board shall have entire management of the matters committed to its trust and shall carry out such plans as may seem judicious, provided they are in strict accordance with the Articles of Incorporation, with the Constitution/Bylaws of the General Association, and with such instructions as may from time to time be given by the General Association. Although the Executive Board shall not have authority to control and direct the agencies, institutions and shared ministries of the General Association, it is instructed and commissioned to maintain liaison with and to study the affairs of these agencies, institutions and shared ministries in search of acceptable solutions to problems which may arise. The Executive Board shall keep records of its proceedings and make an annual report to the General Association. 2. The Executive Board shall act in the interim for the General Association on such matters as the officers of the General Association may determine to require action before the next meeting of the General Association, and the Executive Board shall report such action to the next annual meeting of the General Association. 100 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
3. The Executive Board shall serve as the Finance Committee of the General Association, and shall present a proposed budget to the General Association each year at its annual meeting. 4. The Executive Board shall advise and consult with the executive director in staff personnel matters, including the consideration of new staff positions, the election of assistant executive directors and team leaders, and personnel policies. 5. The Executive Board shall study and recommend changes to the Constitution/Bylaws of the General Association. 6. The Executive Board shall advise and consult with the executive director in strengthening the work of the General Association, including objectives, plan or organization, assignment of responsibility, and matters of general policy. Section F: Church Membership All members of the Executive Board shall be resident members of Baptist churches contributing financially to the Virginia portion of the Cooperative Missions Budget. Only one (1) member from any one (1) church may be elected a member of the Executive Board; however, this restriction shall not apply in the case of persons who serve by virtue of office. If a member of the Executive Board becomes a member of a church not participating with the General Association, his/her membership is automatically terminated. Section G: Membership Restrictions No person serving as a member of a board or committee, no trustee, no employee or independent contractor of either the General Association or any Virginia Baptist agency, institution or shared ministry receiving funds from the General Association, or his/her spouse, shall be eligible to serve as a member of the Executive Board. These restrictions shall not apply to members or pastors of churches which receive financial assistance from the General Association, nor shall they apply to persons who may serve as members of the Executive Board by virtue of office. ARTICLE VI
Virginia Baptist Mission Council Section A: Members by Virtue of Office The members by virtue of office shall be the president, the first vice president, the second vice president, the clerk, the immediate past president, the executive director, and the treasurer. If a member of the Mission Council is elected to any of the above-named offices, he/she shall complete the term to which he/she was elected as a member of the Mission Council. Section B: Members from the General Association There shall be fifteen (15) members from each of the regional clusters of the General Association and six (6) members from churches which are not in a regional cluster. The regional clusters shall annually nominate five (5) members for three (3) year terms. The churches not in a regional cluster shall nominate two (2) members for three (3) year terms. The nominees shall be elected by the General Association on the second day of the annual meeting. A member having served two (2) consecutive terms shall not be eligible for reelection until at least one (1) year has elapsed following his/ her previous service. The nominees shall reflect a wide representation of Virginia Baptists, including both laypersons and ministers. If a vacancy has occurred during the preceding year, the regional cluster shall also nominate a member to fill the remainder of the unexpired term. Section C: Chair of the Mission Council The President of the General Association shall serve as the chair of the Mission Council. Section D: Meetings The chair shall set the date, place and time of meetings. A majority of voting members shall constitute a quorum. Meetings and voting may take place in person and/or electronically in accordance with applicable law.
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Section E: Responsibilities 1. The Mission Council shall submit a slate of fifteen (15) potential nominees to the Executive Board every year before May 1. The Mission Council is directed to see that this slate reflects a wide representation of Virginia Baptists, including both laypersons and ministers. 2. The Mission Council shall provide timely counsel to the Executive Board, serve as liaisons between the General Association and the local churches, and serve as ambassadors for the General Association. Section F: Church Membership All members of the Mission Council shall be resident members of Baptist churches contributing financially to the Virginia portion of the Cooperative Missions Budget. Only one (1) member from any one (1) church may be elected a member of the Mission Council; however, this restriction shall not apply in the case of persons who serve by virtue of office. If a member of the Mission Council becomes a member of a church not participating with the General Association, his/her membership is automatically terminated. Section G: Membership Restrictions No employee or independent contractor of the General Association or his/her spouse shall be eligible to serve as a member of the Mission Council. These restrictions shall not apply to persons who may serve as members of the Mission Council by virtue of office. ARTICLE VII
Committees Section A: Committee on Credentials The president and two (2) vice presidents of the General Association, acting as a committee, shall appoint, at least thirty (30) days before the annual meeting, a Credentials Committee of seven (7) members to serve at the forthcoming meeting. Any questions regarding the registration or status of messengers shall be referred to this committee for decisions and the committee shall report to the General Association. Section B: Tellers Committee The president and two (2) vice presidents of the General Association, acting as a committee, shall appoint, at least thirty (30) days before the annual meeting, a Tellers Committee of six (6) members to serve at the forthcoming meeting. This committee shall collect and count ballots, count standing votes and report the results to the Chair, and accomplish other tasks as may be directed by the Chair. Section C: Committee on Boards and Committees The Committee on Boards and Committees shall consist of the immediate past president of the General Association and nine (9) members, at least four (4) of whom shall be laypersons and at least four (4) of whom shall be ministers . The president and two vice presidents of the General Association, acting as a committee, shall nominate three (3) members to be elected annually at the General Association meeting for three (3) year terms. However, no person shall be nominated to the Committee on Boards and Committees who holds membership on other committees or boards, or is an employee of the General Association or its agencies, institutions or shared ministries. 1. This committee shall nominate qualified persons to the standing committees as outlined in this Constitution/ Bylaws. Prior to presenting its report, this committee shall share with each nominee the duties and responsibilities associated with the service for which he/she is nominated, and obtain the nominee’s acceptance of said duties and responsibilities. 2. This committee shall nominate persons to the boards of trustees of all agencies, institutions, and shared ministries of the General Association in accordance with their respective charters. 3. This committee is encouraged to solicit suggestions as to qualified persons to serve on the boards and committees of the General Association. The committee is directed to see that proper distribution of membership on boards and committees reflects a wide representation of Virginia Baptists, including both laypersons and ministers. The 102 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
committee shall not nominate any person to serve as a trustee of any board of any agency, institution or shared ministry of the General Association who is currently serving as a General Association nominated member on another board of any agency, institution or shared ministry of the General Association, nor shall an employee or independent contractor of the General Association be nominated to serve as a trustee of such boards. However, this restriction shall not apply to any agency, institution or shared ministry which, by its bylaws or board policy, requires a specific employee of the General Association to be a member of its board. All trustees who are nominated by the Committee on Boards and Committees are eligible for consideration to succeed themselves for a second term. After two (2) terms on the board of any agency, institution or shared ministry, a trustee is not eligible for nomination to that board for at least one (1) year. Members of the Committee on Boards and Committees or their spouses shall not be nominated to other committees or boards. 4. All nominees shall be resident members of Baptist churches contributing financially to the Virginia portion of the Cooperative Missions Budget. Prior to presenting its report of nominations to the General Association, this committee shall determine the eligibility, availability and willingness of each proposed nominee to serve, if elected; and this committee shall include in its report to the General Association the place of residence and the church membership of each nominee. Section D: Committee on Scholarships and Ministerial Education Funds The Committee on Scholarships and Ministerial Education Funds shall consist of nine (9) members, at least four (4) of whom shall be laypersons and at least four (4) of whom shall be ministers. Upon nomination from the Committee on Boards and Committees, three (3) members shall be elected annually at the General Association meeting for three (3) year terms. 1. No person serving as a member of a governing board, no trustee, no employee or independent contractor of an educational institution whose students are eligible for financial assistance from the General Association, or his/her spouse, shall be eligible to serve as a member of this committee. 2.
This committee shall oversee the awarding of financial assistance from the BGAV Scholarships and Ministerial Education Funds to further the educational development of (a) persons who are preparing for the Baptist ministry and (b) emerging leaders of all ages.
Section E: Other Standing Committees The Committees on Program, Christian Life, Memorial, Religious Liberty, and Resolutions shall consist of nine (9) members each, at least four (4) of whom shall be laypersons and at least four (4) of whom shall be ministers. Upon nomination from the Committee on Boards and Committees, three (3) members of each committee shall be elected annually at the General Association meeting for three (3) year terms. 1. The Committee on Program. This committee, in consultation with the president, shall prepare the order of business for the annual meeting of the General Association, and arrange for speakers, reports, and special events of the program; consult with the host association concerning necessary arrangements and committees; and make available to the office of the executive director, by September 15, information and photographs for advance publicity, and for the printing of the program. The committee is instructed to give priority to business sessions, providing adequate time for the discussion of needs, problems, and opportunities. The committee shall recommend at each annual meeting the time and place of the meeting for at least two years in advance, giving careful consideration to the need for adequate auditorium, parking, and hotel facilities. Also, the committee may recommend at each annual meeting the speakers and/or special events for at least one year in advance. The committee shall assure that worship is emphasized during each annual meeting of the General Association. The second vice president of the General Association shall be an ex officio member of the committee. 2. The Committee on Christian Life. This committee shall study the social environment in which we live and its relation to Christian ethical standards. It shall point out in its annual report the problems confronting Christian conscience, and suggest relevant Christian teaching that should serve as a guide for attitudes and responses. 3. The Committee on Memorial. This committee shall collect and prepare for distribution biographical data concerning deceased pastors and other Baptist leaders, and shall conduct a memorial service at each annual meeting.
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4. The Committee on Religious Liberty. This committee shall report to the General Association annually on the nature and importance of religious liberty and the separation of church and state, citing violations in principle and practice, and suggestions for correcting same. This committee shall make available information relating to the subject with the view of safeguarding these cherished principles. 5. The Committee on Resolutions. This committee shall prepare and submit to the General Association for action those resolutions which it deems proper and which further the purpose of the General Association as set forth in Article II of this Constitution/Bylaws. This committee shall report to the General Association as scheduled in the adopted order of business on all resolutions referred to it, with or without recommendation or amendments. Section F: General Provisions 1. The incoming president of the General Association shall appoint the chair of each standing committee by December 15 following his/her election, and the chairs shall hold office for a term of one (1) year or until their successors are appointed. No person may serve as chair of the committee for more than two (2) years consecutively. The appointee may be an existing member of the committee or an additional member of the committee. If such appointee is not serving an elected term on the committee, the appointed term on the committee shall be for one (1) year to coincide with the year of appointment as chair. The appointee shall have had at least one (1) year’s previous service (not necessarily consecutive) on the committee. 2. No standing committee member, having served a full or partial term, shall be eligible for reelection to the same committee until after one (1) year has elapsed. All members of standing committees shall be resident members of Baptist churches contributing financially to the Virginia portion of the Cooperative Missions Budget. 3. A vacancy occurring in the membership of any of the standing committees between the sessions of the General Association may be filled by the president of the General Association for the remainder of the unexpired term. 4. Any standing committee member, absenting himself/herself from committee responsibilities for one full year without just cause given to the chair of that committee, shall be replaced by the president of the General Association for the remainder of the unexpired term upon written request of the chair of that standing committee. 5. Committees are expected to fulfill their responsibilities effectively and expeditiously, keeping meetings to the minimum number required. Committee chairs are instructed to schedule meetings, after consulting with the office of the executive director concerning dates, and to see that preparatory planning and research is done by members or others who are responsible. 6. Reports of committees will be received by the General Association at its annual meeting. However, no committee report, except from the Committee on Resolutions and the Committee on Credentials, shall be received, nor shall any of its contents or recommendations be approved by the General Association, unless such report has been submitted not later than September 15 and published on the General Association website before the annual meeting, or unless such report has been made available to the messengers at registration. Such recommendations requiring approval shall appear at the conclusion of the committee’s report. ARTICLE VIII
General Provisions Section A. New Relationships. No new relationship with an agency, institution or shared ministry shall be created by the General Association until the proposal has been studied by the Executive Board. Any motion involving the authorization of any new relationship shall be referred to the Executive Board for study and recommendation to the General Association at its next annual meeting. Section B. Consideration of Business. Matters introduced after the end of the first day of an annual meeting may not be considered at that annual meeting except by unanimous consent. Section C. Voting Requirements. The General Association shall not authorize any new relationship with an agency, institution or shared ministry which involves the expenditure of money except by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the 104 | BGAV 2026 Book of Reports
messengers present and voting, which affirmative vote shall be not less than twenty percent (20%) of the messengers registered at such annual meeting. Section D. Policy Changes. All motions which would change the policy of the General Association or recommend changes to the policy of any agency, institution or shared ministry connected with the General Association, shall be made in writing and presented on the first day of the annual meeting. Action on such motion shall occur on the second day of the annual meeting. Section E. Non-budgeted Expenditures. Any proposed action involving the obligation or the expenditure of funds not provided in the Cooperative Missions Budget of the General Association shall be referred to the Executive Board for study and for such action as it may deem appropriate. Section F. Publishing of the Constitution/Bylaws of the General Association. The Constitution/Bylaws of the General Association shall be published each year in the Book of Reports provided for the messengers to the annual meeting, and in the General Association’s Annual. Section G. Definition of Minister. Wherever used in the Constitution/Bylaws, the word minister shall be interpreted to mean a person who is an ordained minister, or who is recognized by his/her church as being in church related service, and in no way is intended to imply that laypersons are not engaged in ministry. Section H. Assistants to Clerk. The clerk of the General Association may appoint two (2) assistants. Section I. Resolutions. A resolution is defined as the expression of the opinion of registered messengers and in no way establishes the policies of the General Association. Only registered messengers, the Executive Board, and committees of the General Association are eligible to submit resolutions to the annual meeting of the General Association. Resolutions from messengers must be received in writing by the office of the Executive Director no later than October 15 and shall be referred to the Committee on Resolutions. Resolutions from the Executive Board or committees, and resolutions submitted for action by the Committee on Resolutions, must be published in the Book of Reports; or be published on the General Association website in advance of the annual meeting of the General Association; or be available to the messengers at registration. Adoption of any resolution shall require three-fourths (3/4) majority vote of the messengers present and voting. ARTICLE IX
Parliamentary Authority To protect the rights of all the members and to ensure that the will of the General Association prevails, the rules contained in the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall govern the General Association in all cases to which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with this Constitution/Bylaws and any special rules of order the General Association may adopt. ARTICLE X
Amendments to the Constitution/Bylaws The Constitution/Bylaws may be amended only on the second day of the annual meeting by an affirmative vote of not less than two-thirds (2/3) of the messengers present and voting, which affirmative vote shall be not less than twenty percent (20%) of the messengers registered, provided that said amendments have been offered in writing and presented on the first day of the annual meeting. All amendments thus adopted shall become effective at the close of the annual meeting at which they are adopted. Approved by the Baptist General Association of Virginia, November 12, 2014. Amendments approved by the Baptist General Association of Virginia, November 11, 2015. Amendments approved by the Baptist General Association of Virginia, November 16, 2016. Amendments approved by the Baptist General Association of Virginia, November 16, 2022. Amendments approved by the Baptist General Association of Virginia, November 15, 2023.
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AMENDED AND RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION BAPTIST GENERAL ASSOCIATION OF VIRGINIA
Under the provisions of the Virginia Nonstock Corporation Act, Chapter 10, Title 13 .1 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended (the “Act”), set forth below are the amended and restated articles of incorporation of Baptist General Association of Virginia: I. The name of the corporation is “Baptist General Association of Virginia”. II. The corporation is incorporated as a continuation of, and the direct successor to, the unincorporated association more commonly known as the “Baptist General Association of Virginia” founded in 1823 (the “Association”). The corporation is organized and shall be operated for religious, educational and charitable purposes within the meaning of§ 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (“Code”), including without limitation, to (a) furnish the Baptist churches of the corporation (which Baptist churches shall not constitute “members” of the corporation, as that term is used in the Act) a means of cooperation for the propagation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, (b) advance the Redeemer’s Kingdom by all methods in accordance with the Word of God, ( c) assist and foster missions in the dissemination of Christianity, (d) assist persons preparing for the Baptist ministry, (e) nominate trustees of agencies, institutions and shared ministries whose charters require the same to be done by the corporation, (f) take, have and hold and enjoy by purchase, grant, gift, devise or bequest, estate both real and personal, (g) receive, collect and disburse money for missionary, educational and benevolent causes as may be determined to be in compliance with the objectives and purposes of the corporation, and (h) continue the mission, conduct and operations of the Association. The corporation shall have all powers and authority now or hereafter conferred upon nonstock, not-for-profit corporations organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia; provided, however, that (a) no part of the net earnings of the corporation shall inure to the benefit of, or be distributable to its officers, Executive Board Members (as defined below), or other private persons, except that the corporation shall be authorized and empowered to pay reasonable compensation for services rendered and to make payments and distributions in furtherance of the purposes set forth above, (b) no substantial part of the activities of the corporation shall be the carrying on of propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation (except as provided in§ 50l(h) of the Code), and the corporation shall not participate in, or intervene in (including the publishing or distribution of statements) any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office, and ( c) notwithstanding any other provision of these articles, the corporation shall not carry on any other activities not permitted to be carried on (i) by a corporation operated exclusively for religious, charitable and educational purposes within the meaning of, and exempt from federal income tax under, § 50l(c)(3) of the Code (or corresponding Section of any future federal tax code), or (ii) by a corporation, contributions to which are deductible under § 170( c )(2) of the Code ( or corresponding Section of any future federal tax code). III. In compliance with§ 13.1-814 of the Code of Virginia, the corporation shall not have the authority to issue shares of stock. No dividend shall be paid out and no part of the income of the corporation shall be distributed to its Executive Board Members or officers, except that the corporation may pay compensation in a reasonable amount to its Executive Board Members or officers for services rendered. IV. The corporation shall have no members.
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V. The registered office of the corporation shall be located at 2828 Emerywood Parkway, Richmond, Virginia 23294, in the County of Henrico, Virginia and the registered agent shall be Rev. David Washburn, an individual who is a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia and an Executive Board Member (as defined below) and whose business address is the same as the address of the initial registered office. VI. Subject to and expressly restricted by those limitations set forth in the director agreement of the corporation (the “Director Agreement”), which is intended to be, and shall be interpreted as a “director agreement” within the meaning set forth in Section 13.1-852.1 of the Act ( or any successor statute thereto) and pursuant to which certain provisions of the Act are thereby waived, and the corporation’s constitution/bylaws (the “Constitution/Bylaws”), the corporation’s management and affairs shall be vested in an executive board (the “Executive Board”, which Executive Board shall constitute and be the corporation’s “board of directors” as that term is defined in Section 13 .1-803 of the Act). The number of Executive Board Members, the powers, authority and responsibilities of the Executive Board, the manner of their election and all other matters concerning the Executive Board and the Executive Board Members shall be set forth in, the Director Agreement and the Constitution/Bylaws. VII. To the full extent that the Virginia Nonstock Corporation Act, as it exists on the date hereof or may hereafter be amended, permits the limitation (which limitation shall be (i) $1 or the minimum amount allowed to be stated by such Act if a specific dollar amount is required to be stated or (ii) the full extent of the limitation set forth in such Act if no specific dollar amount is required to be stated) or elimination of the liability of Executive Board Members or officers, an Executive Board Member or officer of the corporation shall not be liable to the corporation for monetary damages. Any amendment to or repeal of this Article shall not adversely affect any right of protection of an Executive Board Member or officer of the corporation for or with respect to any acts or omissions of such Executive Board Member or officer occurring prior to such amendment or repeal. To the full extent permitted and in the manner prescribed by the Virginia Nonstock Corporation Act and any other applicable law, the corporation shall indemnify an Executive Board Member or officer of the corporation who is or was a party to any such proceeding by reason of the fact that he is or was such an Executive Board Member or officer or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise. The Executive Board is hereby empowered, by majority vote of a quorum of disinterested Executive Board Members, to contract in advance to indemnify any Executive Board Member or officer. The Executive Board is hereby empowered, by majority vote of a quorum of disinterested Executive Board Members, to cause the corporation to indemnify or contract in advance to indemnify any person not specified in Section 2 of this Article VII who was or is a party to any proceeding, by reason of the fact that he is or was an employee or agent of the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise, to the same extent as if such person were specified as one to whom indemnification is granted in Section 2. The corporation may purchase and maintain insurance to indemnify it against the whole or any portion of the liability assumed by it in accordance with this Article VII and may also procure insurance, in such amounts as the Executive Board may determine, on behalf of any person who is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise, against any liability asserted against or incurred by any such person in any such capacity or arising from his status as such, whether or not the corporation would have power to indemnify him against such liability under the provisions of this Article. VII. In the event there has been a change in the composition of a majority of the Executive Board after the date of the alleged act or omission with respect to which indemnification is claimed, any determination as to indemnification and advancement of expenses with respect to any claim for indemnification made pursuant to Section 2 of this Article VII BGAV 2026 Book of Reports | 107
shall be made by special legal counsel agreed upon by the Executive Board and the proposed indemnitee. If the Executive Board and the proposed indemnitee are unable to agree upon such special legal counsel, the Executive Board and the proposed indemnitee each shall select a nominee, and the nominees shall select such special legal counsel. The provisions of this Article VII shall be applicable to all actions, claims, suits or proceedings commenced after the adoption hereof, whether arising from any action taken or failure to act before or after such adoption. No amendment, modification or repeal of this Article VII shall diminish the rights provided hereby or diminish the right to indemnification with respect to any claim, issue or matter in any then pending or subsequent proceedings that is based in any material respect on any alleged action or failure to act prior to such amendment, modification or repeal. Reference herein to Executive Board Members, directors, officers, employees or agents shall include former Executive Board Members, directors, officers, employees and agents and their respective estates, heirs, executors and administrators. VIII. For any period during which the corporation is a “private foundation” as defined by Section 509 of the Code, and only during such period(s), the corporation shall be subject to the following restrictions and prohibitions: the corporation shall distribute its income for each taxable year at such time and in such manner as not to become subject to the tax on undistributed income imposed by §4942 of the Code; the corporation shall not engage in any act of self-dealing as defined in §4941(d) of the Code; the corporation shall not retain any excess business holdings as defined in §4943(c) of the Code; the corporation shall not make any investments m such manner as to subject it to tax under §4944 of the Code; and the corporation shall not make any taxable expenditures as defined in §4945(d) of the Code. IX. It is the intent of the corporation to continue the works and services described in Article II above in perpetuity, and there is no intent to dissolve the corporation. However, to preserve and maintain the corporation’s non-profit, taxexempt status, this Article IX shall provide for the distribution of the corporation’s assets upon any dissolution of the corporation. Accordingly, upon the dissolution of the corporation, the Executive Board shall, after making provision for the payment of all of the liabilities of the corporation, dispose of all of the assets of the corporation (a) for one or more of the exempt purposes of the corporation within the meaning of §501(c)(3) of the Code or (b) to a fund, foundation or corporation, or more than one such organization organized and operated exclusively for charitable, scientific, religious or educational purposes as shall at the time qualify as an exempt organization or organizations under §501(c)(3) of the Code. X. These articles of incorporation may not be amended or restated, whether in whole or in part, without the affirmative vote of at least ninety-percent (90%) of the Executive Board Members then currently serving.
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