by Layci Clifford

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Pull up your calendar and take a look at what it says for November 9-11, 2026.

Yes, right now.

Go on, take a look.

If it does not say you are going to this year’s BGAV Annual Meeting in Virginia Beach, put it on there. This is a year you won’t want to miss. Our annual gathering is more than a meeting—it is a chance to step away from the pace of ministry and reconnect with the bigger story God is writing through our churches.  

Leadership can feel isolating or uncertain, and gathering together reminds us that we are not doing this work alone. What we do together matters.

Centered around this year’s theme, Heart for the Not Yet, we will look ahead with hope and expectation. We are especially excited to welcome back Miriam Swanson, who will help shape our time together in a significant way. Alan Hirsch will also join us, bringing his voice and insight to the conversation, along with a special guest appearance from Rick Warren via video. Together, these leaders will help us consider what it means to faithfully step into what is still ahead for the Church.  

Along the way, you will experience meaningful worship, practical learning, and real conversations with leaders who understand both the challenges and the calling of ministry today. Explore opportunities throughout the gathering, including engaging Learning Labs, leader connections, and the Art for the Not Yet gallery, with submissions open now. Each element is designed to inspire fresh vision and tangible next steps.  

Come ready to be encouraged, challenged, and reminded why you said yes to this work in the first place. Whether you are looking for new ideas, deeper connections, or a renewed sense of purpose, this is a moment you do not want to miss. Visit meeting.bgav.org and check back often, as more details continue to be added.

Visit the BGAV Annual Meeting website for the latest information on this year's meeting!
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Rev. Layci Clifford is the event planner for BGAV’s Annual Meeting.

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