More than 1,300 youth ministry leaders and partners from multiple states gathered January 29–31 in Chattanooga for Youth Ministry Conclave, a multi-state event focused on equipping, connecting, and encouraging those discipling the next generation. Hosted at the Chattanooga Convention Center, the gathering included pastors, volunteers, and leaders from Baptist state conventions, along with more than 300 exhibitors and 96 booths.
The conference emphasized spiritual formation alongside practical training, with a pre-conference led by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary highlighting partnership with parents and the local church. The first main session featured International Mission Board President Paul Chitwood, who underscored God’s global mission, stating, “The Great Commission is not the plan of man or even the plan of the church. The Great Commission is God’s plan.”
Subsequent sessions included former coach Mark Richt on leadership and identity in Christ, Ed Newton on acceptance rooted in God’s approval, and Shane Pruitt on perseverance in next-generation ministry. Pruitt affirmed, “No teenager is too lost for Jesus to find.” Breakout sessions also addressed ministry families, reinforcing the importance of relational and spiritual support.
