Welcome to the SERVING TOGETHER
"...Through love serve one another." – Galatians 5:13
March 27–28
Pritchard Church at South End, Charlotte
CAMPUS
– REGISTRATION/EXHIBIT HALL – MORNING GATHERING
Recreation Center
– LEADERSHIP FORUM - CELEBRATION DINNER & FELLOWSHIP LUNCH
Pritchard Building/Fellowship Hall
- RESTROOMS (Williams Center)
Williams Center
Third Floor
(All Workshops)
GATHERING
– WORKSHOPS (All Sessions)
Williams Center, Third Floor –
SERVING TOGETHER
FOR YOUR Information
REFRESHMENTS | Recreation Center
Refreshments are available during exhibit hall hours in the recreation center. Grab some coffee and a pastry while you network with our sponsors and exhibitors from all around the state! Refreshments are made possible thanks to our Community Partner Sponsors: Center for Congregational Health and Center for Healthy Churches.
DINNER | Pritchard Building/Fellowship Hall
A Celebration Dinner & Fellowship will take place on Thursday from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.
The home-style dinner buffet provided by Pritchard includes a special celebration of Larry Hovis’ 20th anniversary as CBFNC’s executive coordinator. If you did not order dinner when you registered, please check out a nearby restaurant! This dinner is made possible thanks to our Community Partner Sponsors: Center for Congregational Health and Center for Healthy Churches.
LUNCH | Pritchard Building/Fellowship Hall
Our lunch break will take place from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Friday in the fellowship hall. Pritchard is providing a potato/salad bar lunch with optional gluten-free and vegetarian choices. If you didn’t order lunch when you registered, please check out a nearby restaurant!
CONNECT WITH US
Be sure to post your Annual Gathering photos on social media and use the hashtags:
#CBFNCServingTogether
#CBFNCAnnualGathering2025
USERNAME: Pritchard | PW: pmbc1901
OFFERING
This year’s offering is dedicated to CBFNC’s Disaster Response ministry as the western region of our state continues to recover from the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene last year. There are three ways to give: online by scanning the code, during the offertory in worship or by placing a donation in the wooden offering box on the CBFNC table in the registration area. Offering envelopes will be available in the sanctuary and on the table with the box.
MISSION PROJECT | Congregations for Kids
If you registered to participate in the mission project, please meet at the registration area in the recreation center on Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. We will ride over as a group and return to Pritchard in time to attend our closing worship and the annual business meeting at 1:00 p.m. Lunch and transportation are provided.
CHOIR
The choir rehearsal will take place during Workshop Session 3 on Friday from 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. in the sanctuary. The choir will sing during our closing worship on Friday at 1:00 p.m.
2026 March 19–20 Hayes Barton Baptist, Raleigh
THURSDAY, MARCH 27
10:00 a.m. LEADERSHIP FORUM Pritchard Building/Fellowship Hall
1:00 p.m. ANNUAL GATHERING REGISTRATION & EXHIBIT HALL OPENS Recreation Center
2:30 p.m. WELCOME GATHERING Sanctuary
3:30 p.m. WORKSHOP SESSION 1 Williams Center (third Floor)
5:00 p.m. CELEBRATION DINNER & FELLOWSHIP Pritchard Building/Fellowship Hall
6:15 p.m. OPENING WORSHIP Sanctuary
FRIDAY, MARCH 28
8:00 a.m. ANNUAL GATHERING REGISTRATION & EXHIBIT HALL OPENS Recreation Center
8:45 a.m. MORNING GATHERING Recreation Center
9:30 a.m. WORKSHOP SESSION 2 Williams Center (third Floor)
10:45 a.m. WORKSHOP SESSION 3 Williams Center (third Floor)
11:45 a.m. LUNCH Pritchard Building/Fellowship Hall Seminarian lunch will be off-site at Matador
1:00 p.m. ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING & CLOSING WORSHIP Sanctuary
CBF OF NORTH CAROLINA STAFF
Kathryn Ashworth Ministry Support Manager
Tierney Boss Appalachian State University Campus Minister
Adrian Bullock Triangle Region Campus Minister
Randy Carter Welcome Network Director
Jason Cogdill Legal Resources Partner
Amy Cook Communications Specialist
Jiquan Davis
Campus Ministry Specialist, West Region
James Dolph Campus Ministry Specialist, UNC-Greensboro
Amy Lee Gallaher Programs Support Manager
Lou Ann Gilliam Ministerial Equipping Director
Andy Hale
Associate Executive Coordinator
Chloe Hall Campus Ministry Specialist, Charlotte
Larry Hovis Executive Coordinator
Scott Hudgins Director of Helping Pastors Thrive
Jim Hylton Business Administration Coordinator
Caitie Jackson
Campus Ministries Associate, Charlotte Region Campus Minister & Communications Specialist
Andy Jung Ministry Specialist
Wanda Kidd Helene Disaster Response Director
Trinity Long Campus Ministry Specialist, UNC Chapel Hill
Santiago Reales Director of Red Latina
Antonio Robinson Campus Ministry Specialist, Duke
Jamie Rorrer Director of Communications
David Stone
Campus Ministries Associate & Western Region Campus Minister
Chris Towles
Campus Ministries Associate & Triad Region Campus Minister
Paxton Vaughn Campus Ministry Specialist, NC State University
Marc Wyatt Welcome House Raleigh Ministries Director
COORDINATING COUNCIL
The Coordinating Council is the official board of directors of the non-profit corporation known as “CBF of North Carolina.” Its purpose is to strengthen the bonds that tie us together in fellowship and ministry through communications, gatherings, partner relationships, personnel, finances and other resources.
Stacy Nowell, Moderator
Jeff Harris, Past Moderator
Marion Horton, Moderator-elect
John Roberson, Recorder
David Hailey, Treasurer
Allison Farrah, 2028
Daniel Sostaita, 2028
Lauren Alford. 2027
Jeff Spargo, 2027
Kendell Cameron, 2026
Kenneth Rust, 2026
Sarah Davis, 2025
Carolyn Dickens, 2025
It is such a joy to be able to come together for our Annual Gathering as we celebrate, fellowship, learn, worship and serve together. This is made possible by our hosting church, Pritchard at South End, and we are so grateful! Thank you for welcoming us with open arms, for sharing your facility and for providing volunteers who are serving with kindness. You exemplify what hospitality can look like. Thank you!
ANNUAL GATHERING PLANNING TEAM
In addition to our friends at Pritchard Church and our staff, CBFNC is grateful for the gifts and leadership of the 2025 Annual Gathering Planning Team:
Kevin McDaniel | Hominy, Candler
Dave Hawes | First, Bryson City
Dane Jackson | CBF
Marion Horton | Zebulon, Zebulon
Becky Keesler | First, Mt. Airy
Anita Thompson | First, Wadesboro
Allison Farrah | First, Hamlet
Chris Dawson | First, Monroe
Tori Freeman | First, Mount Holly
Justin Mofield | Gardner-Webb School of Divinity
Dennis Foust | St. John’s, Charlotte
Christian McIvor | Greystone, Raleigh
Tim Hill | Providence, Charlotte
Jeff Spargo | Covenant, Gastonia
Rebecca Stempniak | First, Albemarle
Andrea Dellinger Jones | North Broad, Rome, GA
Chrissy Tatum Williamson | Greystone, Raleigh
Jordan Humler | First, Boone
SERVING TOGETHER
SPONSORS
PRIME EVENT
Church Benefits Board
Guardian Financial Group
COMMUNITY PARTNER
Center for Congregational Health
Center for Healthy Churches
PLATINUM
Baylor Truett Seminary d365
Dawnings | Cooperative Baptist Fellowship
PASSPORT Camps
GOLD
Baptist House of Studies at Duke Divinity
BWIM NC
Missional Business Services
SILVER
Campbell University Divinity School
Good Faith Media
SPONSORS & Exhibitors
EXHIBITORS
Baptist Aging in Ministry
Baptist Retirement Homes Foundation
Baptist Women in Ministry
CBF Global Missions
CBSF (Cooperative Baptist Student Fellowship)
Christians Caring for Creation
Gardner-Webb University School of Divinity
HCT (Helping Churches Thrive)
HPT (Helping Pastors Thrive)
Karis Parenting
Mars Hill University
McAfee School of Theology, Mercer University
Parable Media
Polyphony Music Resources
RAFI
Southern Energy Management
Threads by Nomad/The Off Ramp
Together for Hope
Wake Forest University School of Divinity
Welcome Network
WMUNC
Be sure to visit all our sponsors & exhibitors in the Exhibit Hall in the recreation center.
Dawnings, a CBF Initiative, is proud to sponsor Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of North Carolina and celebrates its 31 years of ministry.
Dawnings is a story-based approach to congregational discernment that helps churches discover and fulfill their Godgiven mission. Inviting “what’s next,” Dawnings helps churches recognize and respond to God’s unique and timely call for their congregation, a new dawn. TO LEARN MORE, visit with us in the Resource Fair, or connect with Elizabeth Nance-Coker during the Assembly.
Thursday | 2:30 p.m. Sanctuary
GATHERING MUSIC
WELCOME
GREETING AND PRAYER
Stacy Nowell
CBFNC Moderator, First Baptist, Huntersville
Chris Richardson Pritchard, Charlotte
CONGREGATIONAL SONG Serving Together Words and Music by Christian McIvor
ANNUAL GATHERING OVERVIEW
CHURCHES SERVING TOGETHER
Amy Lee Gallaher
CBFNC Programs Support Manager
Welcome Network: Oakmont, The Memorial and Cedar Bridge Churches in Partnerships: St. John’s and Together in Christ International Ministries
CONGREGATIONAL SONG
BENEDICTION
SENDING FORTH/POSTLUDE
We Are One in the Spirit Words and Music by Peter Scholtes
Fortino Ocampo Centro Familiar Cristiano, Siler City
SERVING TOGETHER
Thursday | 3:30 p.m. Williams Center
Being Formed Through Story and Wonder Room 312
Participants will take time to visually step into the scripture through Godly play, being asked to wonder individually and together about who God is and how they are being shaped by scripture. After the story is shared, participants will be invited to spend some time reflecting on the story through contemplative options of the individual’s choosing, such as a prayerfully using a finger labyrinth, painting with watercolor paints, writing prose or poetry, etc.
Led by: Lee Ritchie | Minister with Children and Families, Ardmore Baptist, Winston-Salem
Helping Churches Thrive Presents: What We’ve Got Here Is...Failure to Communicate Room
307
If your congregation struggles to have healthy conversations, you’re nowhere close to being able to navigate the more complex issues facing the church today. Thriving congregations are built on authentic community—and authentic community begins with truly listening. This interactive workshop offers practical tools for better listening, a clearer understanding of how communication shapes community, and renewed hope that even tough dialogue can lead to healing. Whether you’re a leader, volunteer, or someone who simply cares about your church’s health, this is a space to grow together toward deeper trust and a more thriving, connected community.
Led by: Helping Churches Thrive Team
The Four Movements of the Welcome Network Room 314
The Welcome Network is a collaborative ministry that provides a tangible expression of every disciple’s call to love the vulnerable and to invite them into God’s beloved community as neighbor (Matt.25: 35-36). The Welcome Network empowers, connects and inspires local congregations to engage in ministries of welcome in their communities. Four distinct movements characterize the Welcome Network: Welcome Houses, Church Spaces/Places, Advocacy and Relationships. This seminar will explore how every church can engage its local context with radical hospitality.
Additionally, this seminar will offer a model for spiritual reflection on the practices involved in welcoming vulnerable neighbors.
Led by: Randy Carter | Pastor, Temple Baptist, Durham & CBFNC Welcome Network Director CBFNC Spiritual Formation Team
SERVING TOGETHER
Guardian Financial: Tax Considerations for Ministers Room 313
Session 1
Thursday | 3:30 p.m. Williams Center
This workshop will educate ministers on social security issues, how to maximize housing allowance and how to keep a minister from disinheriting his or her spouse.
Led by: Matt Henley | Retirement Consultant and Owner, Grayce Wealth Group
Empowering Dialogue: How to Address Christian Nationalism With Young People Rooms 310 & 308
This session addresses the urgent need for churches and communities to engage young people in meaningful conversations about Christian nationalism, which has become increasingly prominent in societal discourse. As youth navigate their faith in a polarized environment, it is crucial that leaders equip them with the tools to critically analyze and respond to these issues. This workshop will provide practical strategies for discussing complex topics in a way that is accessible and relevant to young people, fostering both understanding and resilience in their faith journeys.
Led by: Jonathan Davis | Director of Development, BJC
Ministry with the Forgotten Forgetful: Addressing the Spiritual Pain of Dementia Patients with Modeling Clay and Scripture Room 311
Participants will discuss dementia and the diseases which fall under that umbrella and will explore the importance of ministering with dementia patients. The ministry proposed in this workshop is based on a D.Min. project and is intended to provide tools for both ministers and laypeople to engage with dementia patients in their spheres of life around issues of faith and spirituality. The workshop will introduce the use of clay manipulation—in conjunction with familiar scriptural texts to be read with the dementia patients— and its collective effectiveness in drawing out spiritual experiences locked behind the disease.
Led by: Chris Hensley | Senior Pastor, Sardis Baptist, Charlotte and Chaplain
Immigration Update: From the Border to Washington to Your Church Session 1 Room 306
Immigration policy shifts are affecting churches and the communities they serve. This session will provide a comprehensive update on recent policy developments, their immediate and long-term implications, and what faith communities need to know to respond effectively.
Led by: Elket Rodriguez | Global Migration Advocate, CBF
Helping faith communities and their leaders thrive through coaching, consulting and education The Center for Congregational Health ® is a ministry of Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist’s FaithHealth Division, designed to promote health and thriving in faith communities.
Celebrating 20 Years as CBFNC's Executive Coordinator
For the past two decades, Larry Hovis has served as CBFNC’s executive coordinator. His insightful guidance and invaluable wisdom have helped lead this organization through ordinary days as well as the trials of a world-wide pandemic and several natural disasters in our state. Larry has been an innovative, visionary leader through important milestones. With unending energy, Larry, and his wife, Kim, have shown consistent, loving commitment to the people of North Carolina.
While leading CBFNC, Larry has been a pastor and mentor to hundreds of ministers; friend and advisor to countless people across the state and nation; and an invaluable resource to churches. With a smile and uncanny astuteness, Larry has been the leader that CBFNC has needed for 20 years. Larry is CBFNC!
There are times when a simple “thank you” is not enough to convey the level of appreciation that we have for Larry and his servant leadership, but it is the straight-forward way we must use to express our deep appreciation for all he has done and continues to do.
Each year at Annual Gathering, we collect an offering. This year’s offering is dedicated to Disaster Response for Western NC.
As the western region of our state continues to recover from the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene last year, we know the recovery and rebuilding will be a long-term effort. Though CBFNC is not a “first responder,” we are committed to care for those who suffer from disaster in our state and beyond. Our disaster response takes place in two ways: direct ministry and donating to partners on the front lines. Your offering gifts will enable CBFNC to support churches and ministry partners in the region as they strive to be the presence of Christ in their communities.
You may give by cash or check during the offertory in either worship session or by placing a donation in the wooden offering box on the CBFNC table in the registration area. Offering envelopes will be available in the sanctuary and on the table with the box for you to dedicate your gift.
Ribbon Creative Worship Practice
As we learn about ways our fellowship is Serving Together over the next two days, you will have the opportunity to actively engage in a worship practice. When you enter into worship today and tomorrow, or as you depart afterward or anytime in between—wherever you see a basket of ribbons and a stand—you are invited to take a ribbon and tie it onto another on the dowel rod.
As individuals created in the image of God, we also claim our uniqueness in calling, gifts and strengths. A single ribbon chosen by you represents you. When you tie it onto the strand of another ribbon it signifies our commitment to one another as we serve together in this great fellowship. This practice takes the beautiful God-given personalities, churches, schools, small groups and organizations that we represent to create a tapestry that forms a symbol of our Serving Together in the world.
SERVING TOGETHER
Thursday | 6:15 p.m. Sanctuary
GATHERING MUSIC
CALL TO WORSHIP
WELCOME/GREETING
CONGREGATIONAL SONG
SERVING TOGETHER
Cathy Adkins
Accompanist & Mars Hill University Organist
Mars Hill University Choir
Larry Hovis
CBFNC Executive Coordinator
Serving Together
Words and music by Christian McIvor
Western NC Disaster Response
Larry Hovis SPOTLIGHT Wanda Kidd
CBFNC Helene Disaster Response Director
INVITATION TO GIVE TO
Court Greene DISASTER RESPONSE Canton First Baptist, Canton
Keith McKinney Brunswick Islands Baptist, Supply
OFFERTORY
INTRODUCTION OF SPEAKER
SCRIPTURE Galatians 5:13–15
SERMON Free to Serve
HYMN The Servant Song The Baptist Hymnal #613
BENEDICTION
Mars Hill University Choir
Eric Porterfield Oakmont Baptist, Greenville
Alicia Porterfield Oakmont Baptist, Greenville
Regina Johnson First Baptist, Weaverville
Bill Stanfield Founder & CEO, Metanoia
Stephanie McLeskey
Mars Hill University Chaplain
CHORAL BENEDICTION
Mars Hill University Choir
POSTLUDE Cathy Adkins
Accompanist & Mars Hill University Organist
THRIVE HELPING CHURCHES
CREATIVE WORKSHOP RETREAT
November 13–15
Designed for deacon boards, ministry teams and church staff, this immersive retreat offers practical workshops and collaborative sessions that address key topics such as leading change, navigating division, fostering volunteer engagement and cultivating authentic community. This event empowers church leaders to transform their ministries and collectively embrace a thriving future.
*Mars Hill University Choir led by Dr. Rodney H. Caldwell Chair Dept. of Music
SERVING TOGETHER
Friday | 9:30 a.m.
Williams Center
Authentic Communities Are Safe
Room 311
Safety is foundational to authentic community. People can only relate in healthy and vibrant ways when they are free from sexual abuse and abuses of power. Equity, empathy, hospitality and diversity all rest on a community’s ability to protect their most vulnerable. This workshop describes boundaries and policies necessary to establish safety.
Led by: Jay Kieve | Abuse Prevention and Response Advocate and Ministerial Transitions, CBF
Things They Didn’t Teach Us in Seminary (About Money)
Room 310
In this essential workshop designed for early-to-mid-career clergy, three critical financial lessons that every minister should learn early on will be discussed. Financial stress can weigh heavily on a minister’s ability to lead and serve their congregation, but understanding these key money principles will help ministers take control of their financial future. By improving their financial well-being, clergy will be better equipped to serve their congregations and communities with confidence and peace of mind. Don’t miss out! This is the knowledge not taught in seminary—but it’s what ministers need now.
Led by: Rob Fox | President, Church Benefits Board
Helping Churches Thrive Presents: Congregational Crossroads: Denial, Death and Renewal
Room 307
Participants will explore why congregations emotionally spiral when forced to come to terms with their sustainability and viability. Out of CBFNC’s Church Sustainability Initiative (CSI), the workshop will focus on working alongside congregations to discern their next, most faithful step and explore new pathways toward the critical next five to eight years.
Led by: Helping Churches Thrive Team
We Sing What We Believe—Together!
Room 306
In this workshop, participants will learn how the music sung in worship leads to the development of a “sonic canon” as a community and how that canon both reflects who we are while also influencing who we want to be as a church. Through the lens of C. Michael Hawn’s “seven streams of congregational song,” participants will explore (and sing!) the widely diverse range of congregational songs that are available to use for worship experiences that are representative of the full body of Christ.
Led by: Christian Mclvor | Minister of Worship, Music and Arts, Greystone Baptist, Raleigh
SERVING TOGETHER
Friday | 9:30 a.m. Williams Center
Grandfriends: Intergenerational Program Room 312
Grandfriends is an intergenerational program at a North Carolina church which joins children from the weekday pre-school program together with the congregation’s seniors to meet weekly for lunch, crafts and story time. Seniors possess a wealth of talent, time and love, and children benefit from dedicated one-on-one time with a grandparent-type figure in their lives. The Grandfriends program brings these needs together, and the result is beautiful! Children thrive with this attention and support, and their seniors come alive when spending time with young children. This program can help restore confidence and joy in seniors. And these seniors can, in turn, serve as a resource for young parents and families. This workshop will share the program’s development, the positive changes observed in both seniors and young families and steps for incorporating Grandfriends into almost any church structure.
Led by: Linda DiFranco | Former Director, Children’s Ministry and a Co-Founder, Grandfriends
Race, Religion and Public Education: 70 Years After Brown v. Board of Education Room 313
Fifty years after Brown v. Board of Education, public education in North Carolina continues to face persistent old challenges and a host of new ones. How might our congregations become advocates for our children and their schools? Come and learn about the work of the Center for Racial Equity in Education (CREED).
Led by: Jerry J. Wilson | Director, Policy and Advocacy for CREED The workshop is hosted by CBFNC’s Racial Equity and Justice team.
Belonging, Believing, Behaving Room 308
This workshop will guide participants through a reflection on what it means to establish the habits and practices that foster belonging, believing and behaving. The workshop will draw from the historic practice of Christian catechesis. Jesus calls the church to “make disciples” by “baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything that [he] commanded” (Matt 28:19-20). Participants will explore together how to cultivate a community of well-formed Christians by recovering the ancient-future practice of catechetical instruction, which constitutes a holistic approach to Christian discipleship.
Led by: Curtis Freeman | Director, Baptist House of Studies, Duke Divinity School
SERVING TOGETHER
Friday | 10:45 a.m.
Williams Center
An Embodied Approach to Collegiate and Young Adult Ministry Room 306
Faith communities continue to face the challenge of creating space for college students and young adults within their churches, ministries and leadership. What if we shift our approach from creating a space for this age group and instead focus on being a space that ministers with young people? We will explore this lens through case studies and practical tools.
Led by: Tierney Boss | Appalachian State University Campus Minister, CBFNC
Adrian Bullock | Triangle Region Campus Minister, CBFNC
Caitie Jackson | Campus Ministries Associate & Charlotte Region Campus Minister, CBFNC
Calling Across Generations Room 304
Many of us know the differences between the latest five generations (Boomers–Gen Alpha) enough to understand why friction exists in multi-generational communities. However, there’s opportunity for more than conflict. This workshop will explore what possibilities exist to nurture intergenerational communities that cultivate belonging, spiritual formation and the agency to participate in God’s work in the world that don’t simply fracture us further into age demographics.
Led by: Colin Kroll | Young Adults Ministry Manager, CBF
Cultivating Leaders in Congregations: A Contextual Theology for a Church Thriving in Service to Contemporary Needs Room 314
This workshop advocates for a dynamic and adaptable approach to church leadership, aiming to make faith practical and responsive to modern contexts. It encourages a church that goes beyond tradition, preparing leaders who are equipped to serve meaningfully in today’s world.
Led by: Elizabeth O’Donnell Gandolfo | Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Wake Forest University
Immigration Update: From the Border to Washington to Your Church Session 2 Room 312
This workshop will provide updates for your church on immigration. It will also help to navigate the changes and equip church leaders with tools to create safer spaces for immigrants, connect them to vital resources and advocate for just and compassionate immigration reform—all while navigating uncertain times.
Led by: Sharon Kirkpatrick Felton | Congregational Advocacy Manager, CBF
SERVING TOGETHER
Friday | 10:45 a.m. Williams Center
Loving
Your Neighbors in a
Rooms 308 & 310
Polarized World
This workshop gives a brief overview of what is fueling polarization and how Christians can respond in ways that go beyond fight, flight or avoiding tough issues.
Led by: Matt Cook | Director, Center for Healthy Churches
Helping Churches Thrive Presents: The Psychology & Spirituality of Change Room 307
Change often triggers fear and resistance because it disrupts our comfort zones and routines. The brain perceives change as a potential threat, activating the amygdala and triggering stress and defensive responses. Change often requires new skills or behaviors, which can feel overwhelming and lead individuals to question their competence or job security. Without a clear understanding or adequate time to adapt, people cling to the status quo, fueling resistance and delaying progress. This workshop will explore how to help people understand their response to change and how to lead them through it.
Led by: Helping Churches Thrive Team
Unity the Community Can See: Local Ecumenical Collaboration Room 311
Jesus’ prayer that his followers “may become completely one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me” (John 17:23 NRSV) suggests that the unity of Christians is observable by the larger community and is a means by which people come to know the love of God. Yet, our local communities too often reside where the current divisions of the body of Christ are most directly observable. This workshop invites participants to envision new forms of local ecumenical collaboration as manifestations of the community of unifying love that God is bringing to be.
Led by: Steve Harmon | Professor of Historical Theology, Gardner-Webb School of Divinity
At Baylor University’s Truett Seminary, we believe that people can best prepare for ministry in the context of a caring, Christ-centered community. Our shared mission is fueled by common commitments, resilient relationships, academic instruction, and spiritual formation. At Truett, students, faculty, and staff journey together, united in the belief that we are better together.
Whether you are discerning your calling, preparing for pastoral leadership, or pursuing related professional goals, at Baylor’s Truett Seminary you will find a place where your unique gifts and calling matter. We are more than an institution where you can pursue theological education — we are a community of men and women dedicated to gospel work and witness and to one another.
Join us at Truett Seminary, where life together shapes our mission and strengthens our impact.
As a theological and spiritual home for Baptist women and men at Duke Divinity School, Baptist House of Studies anchors students in their Baptist identity and connects them with one another and the larger Baptist world. Students pursuing their theological education at Duke Divinity join a community that embraces a love for learning and a desire for God, where hearts and minds are open to the whole of God’s truth and formed in the evangelical witness of the gospel.
• 7 Graduate degree programs, including a new hybrid Master of Divinity, and 3 dual degree options
• 100% of Baptist Students Receive Scholarship Aid
• 17 Baptist Faculty (9 Regular Rank, 1 Adjunct, 7 Consulting Faculty)
• 4 Baptist Support Staff
TO LEARN MORE about Baptist House, visit us online at divinity.duke.edu/formation/houses-of-study/baptist-house or contact Dr. Curtis Freeman, Director of Baptist House of Studies, at cfreeman@div.duke.edu or 919.660.3599.
Celebrating another year as a CBF partner school!
GATHERING MUSIC
WELCOME AND PRAYER
ANNUAL
BUSINESS
MEETING & Closing Worship
Friday | 1:00 p.m. Sanctuary
THE STATE OF OUR FELLOWSHIP
BUDGET PRESENTATION
NOMINATING TEAM PRESENTATION
FREE AND FAITHFUL LEGACY SOCIETY
CONGREGATIONAL SONG
Serving Together
Words and music by Christian McIvor
MINISTRY SPOTLIGHT Helping Churches Thrive
INVITATION TO GIVE TO
DISASTER RESPONSE
OFFERTORY
Marion Horton
CBFNC Moderator-elect
Zebulon Baptist, Zebulon
Stacy Nowell
CBFNC Moderator First Baptist, Huntersville
David Hailey
CBFNC Treasurer
Hayes Barton Baptist, Raleigh
Christopher Ingram Yates Baptist, Durham
Becky Keesler First Baptist, Mount Airy
Andy Hale
CBFNC Associate Executive Coordinator
Jiquan Davis
CBFNC Campus Ministry Specialist West Region
They’ll Know We Are Christians Gathering Choir by Peter Scholtes, arr. Mark Hayes
SCRIPTURE AND Romans 15:5–6
Glenn Caulder INTRODUCTION OF PREACHER First Baptist, Wadesboro
SERMON With Endurance and Encouragement
Anita Thompson First Baptist, Wadesboro
SERVING TOGETHER AT THE LORD’S TABLE
ANNUAL BUSINESS
Let Us Break Bread Together (The Baptist Hymnal #366)
Feed Us, Lord Words and music by Greg Scheer
All Belong Here Words by Leonora Rand; Music by Hannah Rand
Come to the Table of Grace Words and music by Barbara Hamm
Friday | 1:00 p.m. Sanctuary
Chris Richardson Pritchard, Charlotte
Anita Thompson
First Baptist, Wadesboro
SERVING TOGETHER
BENEDICTION Blest Be the Tie That Binds (The Baptist Hymnal #387)
POSTLUDE
LEAVE A LEGACY
Rebecca Stempniak
First Baptist, Albemarle
FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS OF BAPTISTS
Invest in the future of CBFNC through your will or estate plans and become a member of the Free & Faithful Legacy Society. This giving society honors those who include CBFNC in their will or estate plans, ensuring CBFNC’s mission and ministry continues for future generations.
MEMBERS OF THE FREE & FAITHFUL LEGACY SOCIETY WILL RECEIVE:
• The satisfaction of knowing that they have a plan in place to make larger gifts than would be possible during their lifetime.
• Recognition at the Annual Gathering, on CBFNC’s website and at other gatherings.
• Personal communication from CBFNC and invitations to special events.
Scan the code to learn more.
Proposed 2025–2026 Mission & Ministry Funding Plan
EMBRACE NEIGHBORS THROUGH MISSIONS
EQUIP MINISTERS AND CHURCHES
ENGAGE STUDENTS AND YOUNG ADULTS
Children's Ministry
Will Raybon, Past Chair - Benson, Benson
Tori Freeman, Chair - First, Mount Holly
Shannon Speller, Chair-elect - Zebulon, Zebulon
Ben Gurganus - Oakmont, Greenville
Kheresa Harmon - St. John’s, Charlotte
Emily Hayne - Woodhaven, Apex
Tammy Hight - First, Henderson
Sarah Mears - Hayes Barton, Raleigh
Melissa Wilson - First, Statesville
Collegiate Ministry
Amy Andrews, Past Chair - Cedarbridge, Greenville
Court Greene, Chair - Canton First, Canton
Christian Davis, Chair-elect - First, Wilmington
Avery Browning - Neill’s Creek, Angier
Kristen Dominguez - Hominy, Candler
Josh Parrott
John Vestal - Greystone, Raleigh
Coordinating Council
Stacy Nowell, Past Moderator - First, Huntersville
Marion Horton, Moderator - Zebulon, Zebulon
Kendell Cameron, Moderator-elect - First, Albemarle
John Roberson, Recorder - Trinity, Raleigh
David Hailey, Treasurer - Hayes Barton, Raleigh
Jamie Kipfer, 2029 - First, Southern Pines
Bert Young, 2029 - First, North Wilkesboro
Allison Farrah, 2028 - First, Hamlet
Daniel Sostaita, 2028 - Iglesia Cristiana Sin Fronteras, Winston-Salem
Lauren Alford, 2027 - First, Smithfield
Jeff Spargo, 2027 - Covenant, Gastonia
Carol Polk, 2026 – Ardmore, Winston-Salem
Kenneth Rust, 2026 - First, Lumberton
Helping Churches Thrive
Paul Burgess, Chair - University, Chapel Hill
Kristen Muse, Chair-elect - Hayes Barton, Raleigh
Tim Brock - First, Raleigh
Elizabeth Edwards - Lakeside, Rocky Mount
Don Gordon
Emily Hull McGee - First on Fifth, Winston-Salem
Michael Lea - First, West Jefferson
Christopher Turner - Neill’s Creek, Angier
Helping Pastors Thrive
Rachel Hill, Past Chair - First, Forest City
Tim Moore, Chair - Sardis, Charlotte
Andrea Dellinger Jones, Chair-elect - North Broad, Rome, GA
Kiki Barnes - Union, Durham
Ed Beddingfield - Memorial, Buies Creek
Nelson Granade - First, Statesville
David Hughes - First on Fifth, Winston-Salem
Jordan Humler - First, Boone
Reeves McGlohon - First, Mount Holly
Robert Prince - First, Waynesville
Richard Seagle - First, New Bern
Scot Storey - Triangle, Raleigh
Chrissy Williamson - Greystone, Raleigh
Mission Engagement
Kevin McDaniel, Past Chair - Hominy, Candler
Dave Hawes, Chair - First, Bryson City
Randy Carter, Chair-elect - Temple, Durham
Jesse Chapman - First, Asheville
Regina Johnson - First, Weaverville
Josh Lail - First, Valdese
Coleman Long - First, Wilmington
Stephanie Shaffer
Jonathan Shattuck - Grove Park, Clinton
Karen Sherin - Southside, Greensboro
Tammy Stocks - Ardmore, Winston-Salem
Music Ministry
Christian McIvor, Past Chair - Greystone, Raleigh
Kelly Settlemyre, Chair- Spencer, Spindale
Andrew Roby, Chair-elect - The Memorial, Greenville
Susan Hadden - First, Morganton
Bruce Myers - First, Albemarle
Lance Newman - First, Elkin
Blaine Pittman - Nashville, Nashville
Aaron Rice - First, Lincolnton
Keely Tarkington - First, Clayton
Nominating
Tom Ogburn, Chair - Triangle, Raleigh
Kendell Cameron – First, Albemarle
Christopher Ingram - Yates, Durham
Wanda Kidd - Mars Hill, Mars Hill
Aileen Lawrimore - Ecclesia, Asheville
Kristen Muse - Hayes Barton, Raleigh
Daniel Sostaita - Iglesia Cristiana Sin Fronteras, Winston-Salem
Chris Thomas - First, Wilson
Bert Young – First, North Wilkesboro
Partnership Development
Paul Gilliam, Past Chair - Trinity, Newton
Brad Smith, Chair - The Memorial, Greenville
Kristen Tucker, Chair-elect - First, Smithfield
Andrew Barnhill - First, Wilmington
Jeanne Hollifield Baucom - First, Laurinburg
Mark Gaskins - Murfreesboro, Murfreesboro
Amy McClure - First on Fifth, Winston-Salem
Randy McKinney - Trinity, Raleigh
Asher Panton - First, Shelby
Stephanie Parker - First, Clayton
Racial Equity & Justice
Mari Wiles, Past Chair - Thomas Memorial Drewryville, VA
LaTonya McIver Penny, Chair - Belonging Fellowship Mebane
Paul Anderson, Chair-elect - Fountain of Raleigh Fellowship, Raleigh
Adrian Bullock - Beaver Dam, Clinton
Eileen Hatch - Snyder, Fayetteville
Dwight Moody - Providence, Hendersonville
Matthew Rouse III - Piney Grove East Missionary Baptist, Marshville
Olivia Wakefield - Baptist Fellowship, Angier
Red Latina
Daniel Sostaita, Past Chair - Iglesia Cristiana Sin Fronteras, Winston-Salem
Fortino Ocampo, Chair - Centro Familiar Cristiano, Siler City
Marta Noyola, Chair-elect - Iglesia Cristiana Sin Fronteras, Winston-Salem
Juventino Hernandez - Iglesia Internacional Bautista de Greenville
Rafael Hernandez - First, Huntersville
Patricia Herrera - First, Huntersville
Verónica Martínez-Gallegos - La Voz de la Esperanza, Charlotte
Elaine Correa Reales - First, Mount Airy
Spiritual Formation
Lydia Hoyle, Past Chair - Greenwood Forest, Cary
Derek Hogan, Chair - Memorial, Buies Creek
Matt Riggsbee, Chair-elect - First, Southern Pines
Mark Edwards - Lakeside, Rocky Mount
Jeff Hensley - Hester, Oxford
Brenda Hipp - First, Lexington
Joani Hughes - First on Fifth, Winston-Salem
Stuart Lamkin - First, Weaverville
David Oakley - Wingate, Wingate
Brett Pardue - Oxford, Oxford
Welcome House
Mike Currin, Past Chair - Zebulon, Zebulon
Renee Bridges, Chair - Westwood, Cary
Linda Jones, Chair-elect - First on Fifth, Winston-Salem
Anna Anderson - First, Raleigh
Victor Aparicio - Morning Star, Clemmons
Pat Dunn - Oakmont, Greenville
Wayne Higgins - First, Weaverville
Alicia Porterfield - Oakmont, Greenville
Susie Reeder - Snyder Memorial, Fayetteville
Youth Ministry
Patricia Turner, Past Chair - First, North Wilkesboro
Tyler Roach, Chair - The Memorial, Greenville
Rebecca Stempniak, Chair-elect - First, Albemarle
Justin Bell - First, Elkin
Kelly Lewis Vincent - First, Wilson
Brian Lockamy - Woodhaven, Apex
Taylor Miskel - Trinity, Raleigh
Marisa Woodley - Edenton, Edenton
VICTORIA WHITE | LEADERSHIP FORUM
Managing Director of Grants and Awards at Leadership Education, Duke Divinity School
Rev. Dr. White is the keynote leader/speaker for Leadership Forum on Thursday, March 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. She facilitates capacity building within traditionally marginalized and under-resourced institutions serving pastors and congregations. Victoria regularly speaks, writes, consults and coaches on topics such as design thinking, strategy and sustainability, Christian social entrepreneurship, traditioned innovation, faith-rooted leadership, and holy friendship. She is an ordained pastor within the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship and is the author of “Holy Friendships: Nurturing Relationships that Sustain Pastors and Leaders.”
BILL STANFIELD | OPENING WORSHIP
Founder & CEO, Metanoia
Rev. Bill Stanfield is a founder and CEO of Metanoia, a ministry begun by the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of South Carolina in 2002 within the zip codes of South Carolina with the highest concentrations of child poverty. The organization has become a leader in development efforts that are rooted in a process of listening constantly to communities and walking with families in those neighborhoods to build on their own strengths and release their brilliance. Metanoia does this in areas of youth leadership development, economic development and affordable housing. Bill is also an associate minister at St. Matthew Baptist Church, a National Baptist Congregation that also houses Metanoia’s programs. He has strong ties to North Carolina Baptists, having grown up within First Baptist, Greensboro and being involved in Baptist student ministries at Campbell University and UNC Chapel Hill.
ANITA THOMPSON | CLOSING WORSHIP
Senior Pastor, First Baptist, Wadesboro
Rev. Anita Thompson began her ministry as pastor of First Baptist, Wadesboro on June 1, 2024. Previously she served on the ministry staff of First Baptist, Ahoskie for 22 years in the roles of associate pastor and minister of music. With her childhood congregation’s (FBC Ahoskie) blessing, she said yes to God’s call on her life and pursued an education which would support full time ministry, first in music and worship, then, as her calling broadened, in an associate pastor role. One of her greatest joys is weaving and leading thoughtful, participatory worship services; another is ministry with children. Anita has been active in CBFNC life throughout her ministry and has previously served on the CBFNC Coordinating Council.
Prayer Experience
The Holy Spirit is moving among our Fellowship as we gather. Spend time praying, thinking, and reflecting on what you experience here, so that the Spirit’s movement will continue in your heart and ministry long after you get home.
Worship
Worship is such a beautiful and important part of our gathering together. Take time to prepare your heart for the moving and inspiring worship moments that you will experience. For each worship time, note the following things, either during or after the service:
Opening Worship
1. What was the most meaningful part of the service for you, and why did it affect you so deeply?
2. What music elements did you enjoy?
3. Write down some words you heard spoken that you don’t want to forget. How can they inspire or challenge you when you get home?
Closing Worship
1. What was the most meaningful part of the service for you, and why did it affect you so deeply?
2. What music elements did you enjoy?
3. Write down some words you heard spoken that you don’t want to forget. How can they inspire or challenge you when you get home?
Workshops
List the workshops you attended. For each one, consider answering some of the following questions:
1. What’s something you learned that you didn’t already know? How will it guide you in ministry? How did the workshop challenge you in behavior, thought, or creative ministry?
2. What are some specific, practical things that you will now do once you get home because of the workshop?
Session 1:
Session 2:
Session 3:
SERVING TOGETHER
Prayer Experience
It’s always hard to pick which workshops to attend when there are so many good ones offered. Write down workshops that sounded interesting that you didn’t get to attend. Make a note to look into them later. (A video of it to research the topic, another person who attended, handouts you can read, etc.)
Prayer prompt: In prayer, remember what you heard in the workshops. Open your heart to how the Holy Spirit can move you as you incorporate those lessons into your life and work. God, I open myself to your Spirit. Let the words and ideas I have heard inform me, inspire me, and encourage me in ministry. Help me to see new ways to reach people, new ways to serve others, and new ways to love my neighbors. Thank you, O God, for new ways of seeing and working in your world. Amen.
Gatherings & Activities
Jot down the other meetings, gatherings, or activities you participated in and what you got out of them. Maybe it was important business to address for our Fellowship. Maybe it was a fun outing in Charlotte or a training you attended. Write down what you gleaned from those times, why they were important, and what you want to remember.
Ministry Partners
The Exhibit Hall is always bustling with life. Make it a point to walk around and see all of the exhibitors, ministries, schools, and vendors. Find some organizations doing neat ministry. Some you’ve heard of already, and some may be new to you. Ask them questions like:
• Why do you do what you do?
• What’s the most rewarding part of this ministry for you?
• How can local churches be a part of this good work?
What vendors had good ideas or offerings for things you can do in your church? Write down what they were, what they do, and how they might bless your congregation:
Prayer prompt:
O God, you have blessed our partners in ministry with wonderful visions and an incredible impact. I pray that you would strengthen them, protect them, and continue to guide them as they make a difference in people’s lives. Open my eyes and heart to ways that I can join in their good work as we build your kingdom together. Amen.
Relationship Connections
Connecting with others is a huge blessing of going to the General Assembly. Reconnecting with old friends, meeting new colleagues, or taking the first steps in a wonderful ministry partnership.
Who is someone(s) you hope to connect with at the Assembly? How can you meet up with them, and how you will both share the blessings of connecting?
Who did you speak to that you had never met before? What are some good things that could come out of nurturing that new connection?
Things I learned at the 2025 Annual Gathering...
CBF GENERAL ASSEMBLY
— CBF Asamblea en General
Hyatt St. Regency at the Arch, St. Louis, MO
JUNE 24–26
UPCOMING EVENTS
RED LATINA HEALTH PREVENTION SYMPOSIUM
— Prevención de Salud Latina Roja Simposio
First Baptist, Huntersville
APRIL 4
RED LATINA MENTAL HEALTH SUMMIT
— Cumbre de Salud Mental de las Latinas Rojas
Intergenerational Center, Winston-Salem
APRIL 12
CBFNC MINISTRY TEAM SUMMIT
— Cumbre del Equipo Ministerial CBFNC
Knollwood Baptist, Winston-Salem
MAY 1
CBFNC REGIONAL GATHERING–TRIANGLE
— Reunión Regional CBFNC–Triángulo
MAY 8
HELPING PASTORS THRIVE
Workshop Retreat:
Trauma Informed Pastoral Care
— Retiro de Taller: Atención Pastoral Informada
Sobre el Trauma
St. Francis Springs Prayer Center, Stoneville
MAY 18-20
HELPING CHURCHES THRIVE
Apply to join the next Shared Learning Cohort!
— Cohorte de Aprendizaje Compartido
JUNE 1-JULY 19
ALL-STATE YOUTH CHOIR
— Todo el Coro Juvenil Del Estado
Gardner-Webb University, Boiling Springs
JULY 13-20
RED LATINA MEN’S RETREAT
— Retiro de hombres latinos rojos
Quaker Lake Camp, Climax
AUGUST 22-23
COLLEGIATE RETREAT
— Retiro colegiado de mediados de invierno
SEPTEMBER 26-28
RED LATINA PASTORS & TEAM LEADERS RETREAT
— Retiro de pastoras latinas rojas y líderes de equipo
OCTOBER 3-4
CBFNC REGIONAL GATHERING–SANDHILLS
— Reunión Regional CBFNC–Sandhills
OCTOBER 9
CBFNC REGIONAL GATHERING–TRIAD
— Reunión Regional CBFNC–Tríada
OCTOBER 23
YOUTH BEACH RETREAT
— Retiro de otoño en la playa para jóvenes Fort Caswell, Oak Island
OCTOBER 24-26
RED LATINA WOMEN’S CONFERENCE
— Conferencia de Mujeres Latinas Rojas Greenville
NOVEMBER 8
HELPING CHURCHES THRIVE
Creative Workshop Retreat
— Retiro de taller creativo
Ardmore Baptist, Winston-Salem
NOVEMBER 13-15
