If you read the most recent issues of Advance Notice, you already know that registration is open for BGAV’s 202^nd Annual Meeting, which will take place November 10-12, 2025, at Highlands Fellowship Church in beautiful, historic Abingdon, VA. You also know that we’ve upgraded what we previous called breakout sessions to two new formats—Learning Labs and Insight Sessions—as a response to attendees’ reviews and recommendations over the past few years.

Are you still on the fence about attending this year’s event? Whether you’ve registered already or are still deciding, here are some more things you should know:

Hotel Deadline Approaching

A big part of attending BGAV’s Annual Meeting is securing lodging at an affordable price. To take advantage of BGAV’s discounted rates for this event, make your reservations soon! We have block rates available at five hotels, and three of those discounted rates expire soon (October 1, 12, and 15). All five hotels are a quick drive from Highlands Fellowship, and nearby downtown Abingdon offers many excellent restaurants, shops, and historic places to visit. Click here for more lodging information and links.

Whova Opportunities for Connecting, Networking

Whova (pronounced HOO vah) is the digital event tool we’re using for everything at the event: voting, program information, maps, announcements, and more. Once you’re registered, you can download the Whova app on your smartphone or tablet, or use the web version on your laptop.  

With Whova, you can preview exhibitor information before the Ministry Fair and connect with any you choose; contact other attendees to network or chat before, during, and after the event; add sessions to your personal agenda to build a customized schedule; and ask the event organizers any questions you may have.  

When you register, you can sign into Whova and the event at the same time. Use your login from last year if you have one or create a new Whova login if you didn’t have one previously. Email annualmeeting@bgav.org with any questions you have about accessing Whova.

Highlands Fellowship, an Inspiring Facility and Congregation

If you’ve never been to Highlands Fellowship before, you are in for a treat! Highlands’ modern facility is a great example of how a church’s physical layout and appearance can be a key factor in reaching out to its community. Come and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Highlanders (as their members affectionately refer to themselves) as they invite all Virginia Baptists into their space for a few days.

Register Now!

If you haven’t yet registered, what are you waiting for? Click here and start making your plans for Abingdon in November!

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