2026 Spiritual Leadership Conference

I am very thankful for the opportunity to attend the Spiritual Leadership Conference at Lancaster Baptist Church in Lancaster, CA.

When I first became pastor, 13 years ago, I told the deacons that it was important that I be able to attend the Spiritual Leadership Conference each year. And, for the past 13 years, there has only been one time (that I can think of) that I did not attend the SLC.

Why is it so important?

Probably the greatest answer to that question is simply the fact that the entire conference is a spiritual "B12 shot" in the heart for me!

The preaching is Biblical and practical.

This morning, Pastor Paul Chappell preached a message entitled, "The Abounding Church." He began with this statement, "God is more interested in the health of our churches than He is with the numerics of our churches!" He then went on to share characteristics of an abounding church. The very first point was, "An abounding church is amazed by Christ!" Are you - am I - amazed by Christ? Do we have an awe in our hearts for what Christ has done in our lives and in our church?

The environment is uplifting and invigorating.

As I hear the preaching; as I am surrounded by the ministry of Lancaster Baptist Church; as I am around other pastors from around the world, it spurs my thinking and challenges my thinking as I ponder - particularly - planning for the following year at South Charlotte Baptist Church. 2027 will be the 50th anniversary of South Charlotte Baptist Church. I desire for 2027 to one of the best years for SCBC! And, much of that will begin with appropriate planning on my part.

Another example: This morning I had the opportunity to attend a session by Brigadeir General (Retired) John Teichert. He was speaking on, "Making It Count: Daily Disciplines of Effective Leaders." I was assuming that he was going to challenge us such things as, "Get up early," etc. Instead, he only had two points: 1) Communicate Intentionally and 2) Constantly Tend To Your Character. It was a challenging session to say the least!

The time away is refreshing.

Technically, the conference does not start until Monday evening. This allows for pastors to not miss a Sunday from their pulpit. However, I like to come early (on Saturday) so that I can attend the services of Lancaster Baptist Church (Sunday night's service was 3 hours long!) and so that, on Monday morning and early afternoon, I can be physically refreshed by enjoying the beauty of California.

Watch this video. I toook you along on my Monday excursion. Enjoy!

I have learned/enjoyed so much and I still have tonight's (Tuesday's) service and all day Wednesday!

I hope to see all of you on Sunday!