Ministry Report 2025
Thank You!
This annual Ministry Report is more than just stats and facts, it is the story of God-glorifying, Christcentered, Spirit-empowered, Bible-believing local churches strengthening one another, mobilizing for missions and ministry, partnering to plant churches, and helping to revitalize churches so they are not alone. Yes, in this report you will see the ministry investment plan and information related to the business of this convention of churches. But, make no mistake, the business of the churches of the SBC of Virginia is proclaiming the Gospel and making disciples of the Lord Jesus.
The SBCV exists to come alongside local churches advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ together to reach our neighbors and the nations. The SBCV serves to extend your church’s Gospel reach across our local communities and around the world so others may know and worship Jesus Christ as Lord.
Even as we meet this week, we are advancing the Gospel together. Missionaries are pointing the nations to Jesus. Seminary students are attending classes. Churches are sending out church planters, and new churches are being started. Churches are seeking God’s hand of revitalization as they keep pressing on. A next generation is hearing the call to mobilize now. Men and women are growing in the faith. Volunteers from SBCV churches are ready to help with disaster relief and rebuilding, supplied by SBCV churches with the necessary resources.
In this Ministry Report, you will read of the cooperative Gospel partnership of hundreds of churches, representing over two hundred thousand Christians that are touching the lives of untold millions across local communities and around this world. This cooperative Gospel partnership is a Great Commission coalition of Bible-believing, mission-minded churches known as the SBC of Virginia.
On behalf of missionaries, church planters, and seminary students you’ve assisted; on behalf of pastors and church leaders you’ve encouraged and edified; on behalf of the suffering and hurting dealing with disaster and hardship you’ve served; and on behalf of the lost who’ve been found – thank you for being a part of this Great Commission coalition known as the SBCV.
Thank you for your faithful partnership, but don’t stop! Our neighbors and the nations need Jesus. Charles Spurgeon exhorted, “The greatest help that can be given to any people, is the preaching of the gospel” (Spurgeon, April 25, 1858). We preach and teach the Word because “all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). We proclaim the Gospel to the world because “it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes” (Romans 1:16). May the Spirit of God empower us for such a time as this to make the Lord Jesus known!
Your brother in Christ,
Brian Autry
En Español
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Our mission is coming alongside local churches advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ together to reach our neighbors and the nations.
Foundational Principles
Our foundation is the Word of God.
Our fellowship is built on healthy relationships.
Our focus is strengthening the local church.
Our function is to assist churches to be on mission.
Our future includes church planting.
You alone
are not
“You are not alone.” These four words have become much more than a slogan for the SBC of Virginia—they are a lived reality for the nearly 900 churches and its members across our commonwealth. Together, we form a Great Commission coalition of churches, united in the mission of advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ to our neighbors and the nations. And with that in mind, we lock arms around four core goals.
You are not alone as you MINISTER
Every pastor and church leader needs encouragement and support. That is why SBCV is organized into six regions, ensuring that churches are never isolated in their ministry. Regional strategists, pastor networks, and affinity groups create intentional relationships that strengthen leaders and congregations. From nationally recognized events to one-on-one coaching, churches have access to resources that equip them to thrive in their calling.
You are not alone as you MOBILIZE
Our churches are mobilizing together into global mission. Through partnership missions and compassion ministries, congregations are praying, giving, equipping, and sending volunteers locally and globally. Whether through English as a Second Language outreach, hunger relief ministries, or strategic partnerships with NAMB, Send Relief, and IMB, SBCV churches are extending the hope of Christ to the ends of the earth. And as we send these missionaries, we make sure that they are prayed for and cared for year-round.
You
are not alone as you
PLANT
Church planting is at the core of our cooperative mission. Through SEND Network Virginia, churches are planting churches in Virginia, Washington, D.C., and beyond. Nearly 100 church plants and small groups—representing multiple ethnicities—are taking root. Planter networks and strategists walk alongside church planters, providing guidance, prayer, and Gospel partnership. And we are praying by faith that there will be 100 Hispanic churches planted by the year 2030.
You are not alone as you REVITALIZE
Many churches face seasons of challenge, but they do not face them alone. SBCV provides strategic relationships, personalized plans, and a partnership with a leadership cohort to help churches regain Gospel health and strength.
At every stage— whether ministering, mobilizing, planting, or revitalizing—the message is clear: You are not alone.
So then, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk in him, being rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, and overflowing with gratitude.
COLOSSIANS 2:6–7 (CSB)
Our focus is strengthening the local church.
REGIONAL MINISTRY Highlights
CENTRAL REGION
The Central egion e perienced a year lled with growth encouragement, and Gospel impact. From the city streets of Richmond to the quiet corners of Louisa and Tappahannock, churches were strengthened, pastors were encouraged, and communities were reached with the hope of Christ.
Dozens of churches received training, consultations, and preaching support. Several congregations such as Grove Avenue Baptist, Enon Baptist, and Little River Baptist, are actively searching for new pastors, and our team has come alongside them during this crucial season of transition. We also rejoice that 28 prospective churches are now exploring partnership with the SBCV, with many already participating in training, resourcing, and cooperative opportunities. Additionally ve non SBCV churches reached out during times of pastoral transition, seeking guidance and encouragement from our network. Ministry milestones were celebrated across the region,
from Kingsland Baptist’s 120th anniversary to Sandy Creek Baptist’s dedication of a new worship center—a legacy stretching back to 1771. Events such as Seminary for a Day, the Central Virginia Bible Conference, and the Kids Ministry Conference drew hundreds for equipping and inspiration. Behind the programs and statistics are stories of changed lives—salvations, baptisms, and strengthened churches. The Central Region rejoices in what God has done in 2025 and looks ahead with expectation for even greater Kingdom impact.
CENTRAL-WEST & SOUTHSIDE REGION
The Central-West & Southside Region—anchored by Farmville, Lynchburg, and Danville—represents 131 SBCV churches across twelve counties and four cities. In 2025, God continued to open doors for ministry, encouraging
pastors, strengthening churches, and welcoming new partners into the SBCV family.
Thirteen congregations are currently navigating pastoral transitions. The Regional Strategist has come alongside them with coaching, prayer, and interim support. In addition, 15 church consultations were held, addressing leadership development, revitalization, evangelism, youth ministry, disaster relief, and pastoral succession planning. These efforts re ect a deep investment in e uipping churches for lasting health and Kingdom impact.
The region also celebrated many ministry milestones. Dr. Rick Ewing was honored for 30 years of faithful service at Pleasant View Baptist in Lynchburg, as the church also marked its 150th anniversary. Other churches, including Quaker Baptist and Liberty Chapel, reached the remarkable milestone of 250 years of ministry. From Worsham Baptist’s 75th celebration to Bedrock Church’s 10th anniversary, these testimonies highlight God’s enduring faithfulness across generations.
e also celebrate growth as ve churches applied to affiliate with the SBCV this year. Each represents a resh expression of Gospel partnership, and we look forward with gratitude and anticipation for what God will continue to do in the Central-West & Southside Region.
We celebrate with seven churches that requested partnership with the SBCV this year, representing Korean, Mongolian, Chinese, Spanish, and English-speaking congregations. Additionally, four churches are building relationships as prospective partners. Several churches also welcomed new senior pastors in 2025, while two new regional representatives were added to strengthen ministry with women and ministry wives.
The North Region rejoices in these growing partnerships and continues to pray Luke 10:2—that the Lord of the harvest would send laborers into Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C.
SOUTHEAST REGION
NORTH REGION
Ten prayers were set before the Lord this year for the Southeast Region. Already, we have seen Him at work in powerful ways, moving among our churches and leaders to advance the Gospel.
This has been a year lled with encouragement e uipping and expansion of Gospel partnerships. From the suburbs of Northern Virginia to small towns across the Shenandoah Valley pastors staff and church planters gathered often for prayer, training, and fellowship.
o ens o ellowships Coffee Conversation gatherings and Send Network Connects provided opportunities for encouragement, networking, and equipping. Highlights included the Fairfax Prayer Conference with International Mission Board Ambassador Gordon Fort, the Evangelism Leadership Summit with North American Mission Board’s Tim Dowdy, and Seminary for a Day with Dr. Scott Pace of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Regional networks also expanded launching a Small Town/Rural Worship Network, a Young Pastors Network, and a George Mason University Partner Church Network focused on campus evangelism.
New works have taken root across the region. Carlos and Lilly Llambes launched Iglesia Bautista Ciudad de Gracia in ewport ews the rst ispanic church plant on the peninsula in years. In Virginia Beach, Caleb and Brailey Eckerd planted CrossView Church, already baptizing new believers be ore their official launch. Other churches such as Discover Church in Chesapeake and Bethel Baptist in Yorktown, are embracing fresh opportunities or outreach. Partnerships are ourishing rom pastors mentoring planters to SBCV leaders presenting the Gospel to international students at William & Mary.
New identities are bringing new life. Several churches, including Crossway, Gospel Way, and Sovereign Shores, stepped into new names and renewed vision. Others are nding revitali ation through adoption processes ensuring once-empty buildings now proclaim Christ again.
New mercies sustain our pastors through hardship and spiritual attack. Weekly encouragement and prayer have reminded them they are not alone. In every season, God’s mercies are renewing, strengthening, and carrying His shepherds forward. The Southeast Region rejoices in His faithfulness and looks ahead with hope.
SOUTHWEST REGION
Pastors and church leaders gathered throughout 2025 in increasing numbers for fellowship, training, encouragement, and prayer. Monthly networks now meet in six locations, with three more areas preparing to launch regular gatherings. These times have strengthened the bonds of partnership and reminded leaders that they are truly “Not Alone.”
A powerful example of this has been Northstar Church in Bristol. Once on the fringe, the church has grown in partnership after wal ing through the pastor search
process. They are now investing more ully nancially relationally, and through new youth ministry connections led by Associate Pastor Gary Breeding. Across the region, youth pastors are meeting together to pray and strategize for greater Gospel impact.
This year also brought opportunities for weekend workshops and retreats focused on deacon training, leadership development, marriage, evangelism, and revitalization. Six churches are currently in pastoral transition, receiving coaching and support, while others are e ploring affiliation with the SBCV. Churches in Lee, Scott, and Carroll counties have recently begun conversations about partnership.
Regional events such as Seminary for a Day, Family Foundation gatherings, and the Refresh Women’s Conference further fueled encouragement. With baptisms increasing and new pastors being welcomed, the Southwest Region celebrates God’s ongoing work and looks forward to even greater Gospel impact.
VALLEY REGION
The churches of the Valley Region continue to demonstrate what Gospel partnership looks like when leaders walk together in unity. Pastors and church leaders are encouraged weekly through texts, calls, and social media, with many replicating this model in their own congregations. That spirit of connection has fueled strong participation in trainings, events, and pastor networks across the region.
This year, multiple churches were trained and equipped, with highlights including a Small Group Leader Training hosted by Salem Baptist Church featuring guest speaker
Matt Smethurst. We also celebrated new pastoral leadership in several congregations, including Craig Valley welcoming a pastor after si years without one. McCabe Memorial Baptist in Martinsville took steps toward partnership with the SBCV, while additional congregations received affiliation presentations.
Regional networks continue to thrive, with monthly gatherings in Martinsville, Franklin County, Christiansburg, and Waynesboro drawing more than 75 leaders. Training has focused on practical and spiritual needs such as evangelism, preaching, missions, leadership, and digital ministry. Valley churches also hosted key statewide events, including the Send Virginia Sending Lab, Kids Ministry Conference, the Valley Student Conference, and a Ministry Wives Conference.
Through baptisms, revitalization, mentoring of young pastors, and strengthened churches, God is clearly at work across the Valley Region.
He told them,
“ The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.
Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.
LUKE 10:2
The heartbeat of the SBC of Virginia is helping churches share the Gospel with boldness and clarity. This year, we have seen God at work through evangelism training, resources, and events that equip pastors, leaders, and church members to reach their neighbors and the nations.
Early in the year, more than 50 leaders gathered for the Leadership Summit with Tim Dowdy at First Baptist, Woodbridge. Together they e plored how to build a culture o evangelism in the local church and effectively engage people o different faith backgrounds. In February and April, the Hispanic Evangelism Tour brought more than 135 leaders together in Fairfax Station and Norfolk to be trained using the North American Mission Board’s Evangelism Kit. In Norfolk, one attendee not only learned how to share the Gospel but personally trusted Christ that day!
Evangelism training reached every generation. More than 300 children’s leaders were trained through breakout sessions at Kids Ministry Conferences using the 3 Circles Gospel Conversation Guide. Youth at Student Fusion Mission Camp received evangelism training and immediately put it into action across Chester eld and Petersburg through mission projects. Families at Family Fusion Camp in Hampton also gained tools and opportunities to share their faith together.
Churches across Virginia oined national efforts as well. The ohn 3:1 on 3 1 initiative mobili ed congregations to proclaim Christ in preparation for Easter. SBCV pastors and families participated in Crossover Dallas before the Southern Baptist Convention, supporting church planter Andrew Cheatham and others through outreach.
Evangelism resources such as Who’s Your One, the Bless App, and the Best News Gospel tool have been placed in the hands of pastors and leaders. With women’s conferences, pastors’ fellowships, and regional training opportunities reinforcing the call to evangelize, the SBCV continues to stand beside churches as they proclaim the Good News.
NEXTGEN Ministry
God has moved powerfully among students across Virginia through camps, conferences, and discipleship gatherings.
The future is bright as God continues to raise up a generation passionate for His glory.
The Youth Evangelism Conference was a highlight, drawing more than 1,300 students and leaders to London Bridge Baptist in Virginia Beach. The weekend featured worship, preaching, and drama, with over 20 recorded decisions for Christ. One church brought 25 students, six of whom surrendered their lives to Jesus.
Discipleship weekends also thrived across the state. The Valley Student Conference in Roanoke gathered 645 participants from 15 churches. The Collective in Colonial Heights, along with gatherings in Appomattox, Midway, and Danville, brought together hundreds more for intentional teaching and worship.
Student Fusion Camp at Mount Pleasant Baptist in Colonial Heights engaged 235 students and adults from 19 churches. Participants spent the week in worship, teaching, and local mission projects—serving community organizations, revitalizing churches, and assisting church plants. Many students made decisions for Christ, including calls to vocational ministry.
Family Fusion Camp in Hampton gave 60 participants a unique missions experience, as families with kids of all ages partnered with local ministries and churches to serve the community.
LOOKING AHEAD
YEC 2026 will return to London Bridge Baptist with Chip Luter speaking, Red Letter Society leading worship, and illusionist ared all engaging students.
In February, the Student Leaders’ Family Retreat at reat ol odge will offer re reshment or leaders with r. Brian Autry and enni er Autry leading sessions.
COLLEGIATE Ministry
College and young adult ministry continues to expand as leaders and students unite for encouragement, worship, and discipleship. In Roanoke, 15 leaders gathered for a College Ministry Breakfast at Salem Baptist Church to share best practices and strengthen relationships. Regional Young Adult Worship Nights are thriving, meeting monthly in Roanoke and bi-monthly in Richmond. These gatherings provide consistent opportunities for young adults to connect, grow in their faith, and build community.
The Young Adult Retreat, held September 19–21, brought more than 180 young adults together for a weekend of worship, teaching, and fellowship. The event offered a space for spiritual renewal and deeper connection with God and one another.
The SBCV provided every incoming freshman at Bluefield University a Christian Standard Bible (CSB) Study Bible, ensuring that God’s Word remains central to their new journey.
Oh magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together!
PSALM 34:3 (ESV)
Strengthening the Reach of Children’s Ministry
The SBC of Virginia Children’s Ministry continues to grow in strength and reach, providing vital equipping and encouragement for leaders who serve the youngest in our churches. This year has been marked by strong participation in conferences, regional trainings, and the exciting launch of a Special Needs Ministry Network.
The year began with the VBSI Celebration Day on January 27 at Swift Creek Baptist Church, where the VBSI team received core training to prepare for leading at Kids Ministry Conferences. That investment bore fruit in March, as three Kids Ministry Conferences were held across the state. Swift Creek Baptist in Midlothian welcomed 469 participants from 173 churches, including 101 SBCV churches. Northstar Church in Blacksburg hosted 173 participants from 42 churches, while Great Bridge Baptist in Chesapeake gathered 265 leaders from 81 churches Each conference featured Lifeway Kids specialists, more than 40 breakout sessions, and three focused tracks: VBS, Children’s Ministry, and Spanish. These gatherings were a tremendous encouragement to hundreds of leaders from across Virginia.
In August and September, the E2 Kids Tour reached four regions—Southwest, Valley, North, and Southeast— equipping and connecting leaders while promoting ongoing ministry networking groups in each region. In addition, individual equipping sessions were provided for
churches in three regions upon request, underscoring the SBCV’s commitment to customized support.
One of the most exciting developments this year has been the intentional focus on Special Needs Ministry. Recognizing the absence of coordinated opportunities for children, students, and adults with special needs, the SBCV launched its first statewide network of leaders. This network began at the Central Region Sunday School/Small Group Workshop at Mount Vernon Baptist Church and will provide equipping, resources, and encouragement for churches seeking to strengthen their ministry to families with special needs.
Women’s Ministry experienced a year of growth, encouragement, and powerful Gospel impact. Through conferences, retreats, and collaborative leadership, women across Virginia were equipped and inspired to serve faithfully in their homes, churches, and communities.
The year began with the spring Refresh Conference, held in two locations across Virginia. On April 13, nearly 300 women gathered at Red Lane Baptist Church in Powhatan to worship, hear from keynote speaker Mary Wiley, and participate in breakout sessions. Then, on October 18, another group of women came together at North Bristol Baptist Church for a special and encouraging Refresh Conference, also led by Mary Wiley. Breakout session topics included:
• Finding Joy in the Midst of Suffering – exploring how we can exhibit true joy despite the pain we may be enduring.
• By This Everyone Will Know – focusing on the example we set for the lost through our interactions and service.
• Holiness – identifying what holiness truly is and how we can strive to achieve it.
Another highlight came August 1–2 at Liberty Baptist Church in Appomattox, where 300 women from 55 SBCV churches and 18 non-SBCV churches attended the Not Ashamed Women’s Conference. Catherine Renfro, National Director of Women’s Evangelism at the North American Mission Board, encouraged authentic discipleship, promoted evangelism, and inspired women to share the Gospel in everyday conversations and settings.
Daily encouragement through social media pages and the blog has continued in 2025. There, women will find resources for those who are hurting, seeking spiritual growth, looking for leadership tools, or ministry wives seeking community and understanding.
Women’s Ministry remains committed to serving ministry wives and is thrilled to include breakout sessions at events that are specifically designed for and led by pastors’ wives. Many of our events also include breakout sessions offered in Spanish.
LOOKING AHEAD
We are excited to host a Ministerio de Mujeres event on May 16, 2026, at The Heights Baptist Church. This event will be led by our Hispanic Women’s Ministry Team.
WOMEN'S Ministry
Women attended conferences
MEN’S Ministry
Men’s Conference participants
This year, Virginia churches have been equipped with resources, training, and events designed to disciple men. Celebrating 20 years of ministry, our strategic partner, Noble Warriors, hosted a statewide tour featuring ten events, seven of which were held in SBC of Virginia churches. These gatherings not only celebrated two decades of impact but also sparked new consultations with pastors eager to strengthen men’s discipleship in their churches.
Men’s conferences remained a cornerstone of ministry in 2025. With gatherings at First Baptist Park Street in Charlottesville and Bethel Baptist in Yorktown, more than 300 men were inspired by nationally known speakers including Ken Bevel, Nate Larkin, Dave Wilson, and Steve Fitzhugh. Leadership was also emphasized through the Noble Warriors Leadership Conference at Staples Mill Road Baptist, which brought together over 100 leaders from 25 SBCV churches
Beyond conferences, Noble Warriors continues to invest in local churches through Tailgate events, Build A Manger, Better Man initiatives, and monthly men’s ministry leadership calls, Podcasts, workshops, and consultations have multiplied opportunities to equip men to live out biblical manhood.
LOOKING AHEAD
2026 conferences are already scheduled, promising even greater impact as SBCV churches continue to disciple men who will lead with strength and faith.
God has continued to bless and expand the Hispanic Ministry of the SBC of Virginia through fellowship, training, and the bold proclamation of the Gospel. Churches have been strengthened, leaders equipped, and new works launched across Virginia.
The year began with historic milestones. n March the rst Hispanic church planter in the Valley region completed his assessment and will soon launch a second-generation congregation through Primera Iglesia Bautista Hispana Roanoke. In April, church planter assessments in Glen Allen evaluated candidates for Salem, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach. That same month, more than 40 Hispanic women participated in the Refresh Women’s Conference, which included two workshops in Spanish, marking exciting growth in women’s ministry.
The Lord also moved powerfully through training. At a training event based on the NAMB Evangelism Kit in Norfolk, 45 leaders were equipped to share the Gospel and learned about the Cooperative Program and Vision Virginia. One visitor from Costa Rica gave his life to Christ during the training and is now preparing for baptism. New planter cohorts launched in the Northern and Southeast regions, with more on the way. Marisol Santamaria began
HISPANIC Ministry
a wives cohort in orthern Virginia while os Ma ariego continued mentoring planters across the state.
The summer brought even more highlights. More than 1 people attended the rst Valley ispanic Con erence Cambios Pro undos while men gathered or the rst statewide Hispanic men’s retreat at the IMB International Learning Center. In September, around 500 men, women, and children attended the Renovados Conference, supported by 60 local volunteers.
Partnerships also deepened—both locally and nationally. SBCV Español launched a new academic pathway with Midwestern Seminary, while Pastor Vernig Suárez of First Norfolk Español was elected president of the National Hispanic Baptist Network.
From conversions and baptisms to leadership pipelines and new church plants, 2025 has been a year of visible fruit.
attended the
Renovados Conference
Our function is to assist churches to be on mission.
“After this I looked, and behold, a
great multitude that no one could number,
from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands.”
Revelation 7:9 (ESV)
MISSIONS Mobilizing your church
The Missions Team exists to connect churches with one another, our national partners—the International Mission Board (IMB), North American Mission Board (NAMB), and Send Relief—and the mission field. Through Partnership Missions and Compassion Ministries, SBCV churches are mobilizing to obey the Great Commission together.
Missions Mobilization
This year has been marked by exciting mobilization and fresh opportunities:
• Nearly 1,000 volunteers from 58 churches and 13 states joined the Serve Tour Virginia Beach with Send Relief, serving four cities in two days.
• A Pastor Vision Tour led nine leaders to explore partnerships with the North African and Middle Eastern diaspora in Europe, resulting in two new partnerships.
• The Central Virginia Missions Sending Pipeline launched with 14 mentees being mentored toward future ministry.
• More than 30 SBCV churches have active or developing partnerships with church planters in Puerto Rico.
• Missionary care remains a top priority, with SBCV churches supporting IMB families in Madrid after the tragic loss of a child, connecting with 59 missionaries from SBCV churches, and adopting orphaned missionary families.
• Hunger ministries fed nearly 50,000 people so far in 2025 while sharing the gospel with thousands.
Partnership Missions
North Africa and the Middle East (NAME): SBCV churches continue to partner with IMB missionaries in Spain, serving through evangelism, English classes, and care. Two new partnerships were formed after a vision trip. A Hispanic Pastors’ Vision Tour is planned for 2026.
Puerto Rico: At least 30 SBCV churches are connected with church planters and congregations. Teams served nearly every week of summer 2025. A 2026 vision trip is planned.
South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa: Teams traveled to India and Sri Lanka to train indigenous pastors, while 50 SBCV churches remain committed to partnerships across Africa. A new partnership in Dakar, Senegal, is under exploration.
Argentina: Despite challenges with missionary families facing health and travel needs, the partnership in Buenos Aires continues to move forward. Sky View Missionary Baptist is leading a team in October 2025, while Parkview Baptist is preparing to send a team in spring 2026. Pastors from Southwest Virginia are providing ongoing encouragement and pastoral care for missionaries on the field, ensuring this partnership remains strong.
Other Regions: Partnerships are expanding in Newfoundland (Canada) and the United Kingdom, with vision trips scheduled for 2026.
Missionary Care
Missionary care is at the heart of our mobilization strategy. SBCV churches have:
• Adopted IMB Field Personnel Orientation, providing meals, encouragement, and prayer.
• Extended care to three orphaned missionary families.
• Supported 12 IMB families in Madrid after the tragic loss of a child.
• Connected with 59 missionaries from SBCV churches to learn their needs and link them with supporting congregations.
Pastor fellowships, prayer gatherings, and mentoring have made it clear—missionaries are not alone. SBCV churches continue to stand in the gap, ensuring those sent to the nations are strengthened, encouraged, and cared for.
from 58 churches and 13 states joined the Serve Tour Virginia Beach with Send Relief, serving four cities in two days.
Compassion Ministries
Send Relief and Affiliates: In addition to Serve Tour, two SBCV churches—Pillar Church in Dumfries and The Community Fellowship in Collinsville—now serve as Send Relief Affiliate Ministries, modeling reproducible compassion strategies.
ESL Ministries: More than 36 leaders have been trained this year, with six credentialed workshop leaders now serving. SBCV ESL programs are thriving in the Tri-Cities, Fredericksburg, Colonial Heights, and Bluefield, reaching hundreds with both language skills and the Gospel.
Foster Care: Through Fostering Champions and Family Advocacy Ministry, churches are caring for foster families, mentoring youth aging out of the system, and funding a new home in Martinsville.
Hunger Ministries: Year-to-date results include nearly 50,000 people fed, 8,700 Gospel conversations, 25 professions of faith, and 17 baptisms.
LOOKING AHEAD
Vision trips in 2026 to Puerto Rico, Senegal, London, Newfoundland, and Argentina will help pastors and churches re-engage in global missions. With every effort, SBCV missions continue to stand on the truth; local churches are the primary sending and going agencies. Together, we are advancing the Gospel to our neighbors and the nations.
hours of service
SRELIEF Ministry
BC of Virginia Relief Ministry volunteers continue to bring the comfort of Christ to those in crisis, demonstrating His compassion in tangible ways while sharing the hope of the Gospel.
In 2025 the Disaster Relief and Rebuild teams responded with urgency and compassion. Four disaster relief deployments took place in Calhoun, Kentucky; Virginia Beach during Serve Tour; and twice in Bradshaw, West Virginia. In addition, 11 rebuild deployments were completed: ten in Mountain City, Tennessee and one in Damascus, Virginia. Monthly trips to Mountain City have become a lifeline for families still recovering from Hurricane Helene, while flood recovery crews cleared debris and restored homes in both West Virginia and Kentucky.
From January through November, volunteers gave 271 volunteer weeks—more than 12,600 hours of service. Since July, 111 volunteers from 38 churches have served on five deployments. One volunteer testified, “We arrived as strangers on Sunday and by Friday had formed lifelong friendships. To God be the glory.” This ministry’s impact goes beyond physical labor. Teams engaged in 11 Gospel conversations, and one individual came to faith in Christ
Relief trailers and equipment were heavily used, from shower trailers at summer camps to recovery trailers supporting churches. New partnerships formed as Fincastle Baptist and Goshen Baptist outfitted their own recovery trailers. Altogether, relief trailers were deployed 14 times this year, with 8 directly assisting local church ministries. Plans are underway to expand with a four-season shower trailer and a laundry trailer.
Volunteer infrastructure also grew through Volunteer Matters software, where 1,400 volunteers are now registered, including 537 with active Disaster Relief credentials and 642 with Rebuild credentials. Every number tells a greater story: lives touched, hope restored, and Christ’s love made visible through the hands and hearts of SBCV volunteers.
Our future includes Church Planting
Fruit from the Field
In 2025, church plants reported remarkable Gospel fruit with over 775 professions of faith. Over 20 churches participated in Residency Builder training to develop sending strategies, and seven churches became rst time sending churches ta ing responsibility or raising and supporting planters. Stories li e one from Planter Caleb Eckerd in Virginia Beach remind us why this work matters. Laura, once openly antagonistic to the ospel encountered Christ at her local gym. ot long after her son oah who had been aith ully praying for her—had the joy of baptizing her alongside Caleb.
“You are Not Alone” is more than a phrase at SBCV—it’s a lived reality for church planters. In August, more than 200 planters and their families gathered for Church Planter Family Day at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg. This day of fun and fellowship reminded families that they are part of something larger than themselves. As planter Ryan Sturgis reflected, “My family and I looked around at lunch time and realized we were part of something bigger than just ourselves, and that’s a great encouragement.”
Coaching also remains central to planter care. Eleven new church planters and six planter’s wives were matched with trained coaches this year, ensuring guidance and encouragement for both ministry and family life.
professions of faith in church plants
New Works Emerging
Momentum is building in the North Region, with new plants preparing in Front Royal, Spotsylvania, Winchester, and inside the Beltway. Strategic partnerships are forming among churches like Nations Church, Redeemer Bible, Impact Church, and The Way City. The goal of developing ten multiplying churches in Northern Virginia is steadily becoming reality.
Hispanic Church Planting
Our commitment to planting 100 Hispanic churches by 2030 is bearing fruit. A new Hispanic congregation is being launched in Winchester through the partnership of Mosaic Church Spotswood Baptist and Champion orest Baptist (Te as). This will be the rst SBCV ispanic plant in Winchester.
Training and education are expanding as well. Through a new partnership with Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Hispanic planters have access to master’s and doctoral-level programs, with residency cohorts providing 12 academic credits. Cohorts for planters and wives have launched in the North and Southeast regions, with expansion planned for Central and Valley regions.
Planters and wives from each region participated in coaching and eight new planters were identified for assessment. Churches across the state are praying and preparing to host Hispanic congregations, expanding Gospel access to historically unreached communities.
PEOPLE GROUPS & INTERNATIONAL Fellowships
Virginia is home to a growing diversity of peoples. The largest non-English-speaking groups include Spanish, Korean, Chinese, and Amharic. Within the SBC of Virginia, 141 churches now worship in more than 26 languages. The largest groups include Hispanic (56), Korean (19), Ethiopian (17), Chinese (10), and Arabic (4). International fellowships are strengthening leaders and churches. The East African Fellowship gathered 13 Ethiopian and Eritrean pastors for training in Amharic The Korean Fellowship held its first statewide gathering at the SBCV Annual Homecoming and is preparing to launch its first Korean-language evangelism training in 2026. The Chinese Fellowship, now four years strong, has grown from 12 to 60 participants and continues to expand.
churches worship in more than 26 languages
churches have participated in Revitalization cohorts
REVITALIZATION Ministry
WRAPPING UP THE CURRENT COHORT
The 2024–2025 Revitalization Cohort is nearing completion after a strong two year ourney. Two nal gatherings focused on helping pastors transition well and connecting them with resources to sustain revitalization in their churches. More than twenty pastors, representing congregations from Madison Heights to Winchester, have participated in this cycle. Together, they have prayed, shared challenges, and pursued new pathways for health and growth.
RECRUITING THE NEXT REVITALIZATION COHORT
Work is already underway for the 2026–2027 revitalization cohort. Regional Strategists are submitting names of prospective churches, with each candidate undergoing careful vetting to ensure readiness for the two-year commitment. About ten churches have been submitted with more e pected. The goal is to nali e the roster by the Annual omecoming launching in anuary .
EXPANDING CONSULTING SERVICES
Not all churches need revitalization in the traditional sense. Some face unique challenges as they grow in comple ity such as managing larger staffs launching
capital campaigns or re ning ministry structures. To meet this need, Dave Velloney has launched Next Level Consulting. Already serving Seaford Baptist Church, this initiative will expand in late 2025 with a broader rollout and professional branding.
SHARING STORIES
Stories remain powerful tools for encouragement. Through Innovative Faith Resources, the Not Alone Podcast has been highlighting pastors who are leading their churches toward renewal. These testimonies offer insight and hope to others pursuing revitalization.
EVENTS AND RESOURCES
In August, Liberty Baptist in Appomattox hosted a Small Town/Rural Church Pastors and Leaders Workshop, which drew strong interest. A special day at Dollywood for pastors and their amilies was provided in late October offering encouragement for those balancing bi-vocational ministry.
Rusty Small continues to explore best practices, network with Baptist partners in North and South Carolina, and evaluate resources from groups like Auxano and Renovate Conferences to strengthen revitalization efforts statewide.
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”
1 THESSALONIANS 5:11 (ESV)
STRATEGIC Initiatives
Through generous Cooperative Program and Vision Virginia giving from SBC of Virginia churches, more than $30,000 in grants were invested in pregnancy centers located in Dumfries, the Eastern Shore, and Roanoke. These funds provide tangible help for women and families, while partnerships in Bristol and Danville confront the urgent challenge of Planned Parenthood targeting those cities. A highlight this year includes Innovative Faith Resources helping rebrand a Page County center—expanding its reach and sharing its mission more effectively. The SBCV is now a strategic partner with the Virginia Coalition of Pregnancy Centers, further strengthening this vital network.
The partnership with The Family Foundation continues amid growing challenges to biblical and family values in the Commonwealth. Together, we have hosted multiple regional pastor fellowships, supported the March for Life, produced vision videos and podcasts, and served as a main sponsor of their fundraising gala. These efforts amplify a unified voice for life and family across Virginia.
The Worship Pastor Network launched in 2025 with eight regional consultants who are supporting worship leaders statewide through networking, resources, and fellowships. These leaders are shaping the upcoming Worship and Technology Conference and helping expand it nationally in 2026 in partnership with Kentucky Baptists.
The Virginia Deaf Network continues to build unity and Gospel access for the deaf community. The Deaf Leadership Roundtable is equipping pastors and leaders while forming a new SBCV fellowship grounded in Scripture and the Gospel.
The Prayer and Care Ministry has provided more than 60 one-on-one pastoral fellowships and encouragement visits across Virginia. This Spirit-led ministry reminds pastors they are not alone—offering prayer, care, and biblical encouragement in every season.
Together, these initiatives reflect the heart of the SBCV—advancing the Gospel, protecting life, and strengthening churches.
OUR MISSION REMAINS CLEAR: to stand in the gap, support our churches, and advance the Gospel through initiatives that protect life, strengthen families, and equip leaders across Virginia and beyond.
INNOVATIVE FAITH Resources
Innovative Faith Resources (IFR) Media Services continues to come alongside churches, ministries, and partners to tell powerful stories and strengthen Gospel impact through media. From January through September 2025, IFR has supported ministries across Virginia and beyond with video production, design, marketing, and media consultation.
This year, IFR helped produce major events such as the Worship & Technology Conference and is already planning for the 2026 conferences at Liberty University and in Louisville, Kentucky. Locally, projects ranged from stewardship campaign support for Round Hill Baptist Church entitled “All In” to logo rebrands for Cardinal, Piney Fork, and Pioneer Baptist Churches—helping these congregations better communicate their mission to their communities.
Partnerships extended nationally as well. IFR produced magazines for the State Convention of Baptists in Indiana and the awaii Paci c Baptist Convention while also creating videos or awaii s state missions offering and annual meeting. Closer to home, IFR partnered with the Family Foundation of Virginia, producing media for its statewide pastors’ tour and Gala.
Creative storytelling has remained central, with highlight videos for ministries like Waterfront Church’s Night to Shine and media and podcast work with Charles Billingsley and Thomas Road Baptist Church’s women’s ministry podcast, Deeper.
In addition, IFR continues to provide consultation in audio, video, social media, and marketing for churches of every si e offering practical tools and guidance. hether producing a video, designing a logo, or launching a podcast, IFR Media Services exists to help churches and ministries communicate the ospel more effectively and with excellence.
Innovative Faith Resources (IFR) Financial Services continues to grow as more churches and church plants choose to outsource their bookkeeping and payroll needs. This growth reflects a shared desire to steward resources wisely while staying focused on Gospel ministry.
Innovative Faith Resources Financial Services (as of September 15, 2025) supports 260 churches across 30 states an increase of six states in 2025—plus the District of Columbia and one state convention. By the end of the year, we anticipate serving 275 churches. Currently, 62% of the churches served are affiliated with the SBC of Virginia.
Church payrolls now include 1,100 employees, an increase of 222 since January 2025. Church budgets range from $50,000 to more than $4 million annually, highlighting the diversity of congregations we serve.
We continue to explore innovative solutions that help churches manage administrative responsibilities efficiently, freeing them to focus on ministry. Banking partnerships have also expanded, offering free and discounted services to the majority of churches we serve.
Currently serving these states
The SBC of Virginia Foundation will once again provide funding for Mission Dignity’s “13th Check” program in 2025. This initiative enables Virginia participants to receive an additional monthly check in December. The estimated cost is between $13,000 and $14,000. A letter will be sent to participants informing them that this gift was made possible through the generosity of the SBC of Virginia and the SBC of Virginia Foundation.
CHURCH INVESTMENT FUNDS
As of September 30, 2025, the Foundation held investments for 49 churches, totaling $9,751,238. This represents an 82% increase (or 3 1 11) since anuary 1 .
CHURCH LOAN PROGRAM
The Foundation continues its partnership with WatersEdge to offer church loans up to 1 million or:
•New construction e nancing
•Remodeling
•Land acquisition
This partnership provides churches with access to a Christcentered lender and ministry ocused nancial e pertise not typically available through traditional institutions. Additionally, interest earned from these loans is reinvested into Christ-centered ministries.
ONGOING FOUNDATION SERVICES
The Foundation remains committed to supporting churches through the following services:
• Church Loans: For congregations unable to secure traditional nancing. n three churches received loans totaling $340,000.
As of September 31, the Foundation’s loan portfolio includes eight active loans with an outstanding balance of $1,280,068.
• Stock Gift Processing: Enables churches to receive stock donations without maintaining a brokerage account. The Foundation sells the stock and forwards the proceeds to the church, allowing donors to give tax-free. This service is provided at no cost to churches. In 2025, 16 transactions were completed for eight churches, totaling $677,324 in gifts.
• Account Management: For churches that have closed.
• Legal and Tax Guidance: Assists closing churches in transferring property to another church without requiring transfer to the Foundation.
• Property Trust Services: Holds properties in trust for closed churches.
• Estate Planning Education: Provides speakers to churches on estate planning topics
“ Make my joy complete by thinking the same way, having the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.”
PHILIPPIANS
2:2 (CSB)
Welcome to the family
CENTRAL LOCATION PASTOR
Berea Baptist Church Rockville Mark Jenkins
Covenant Church Midlothian Joshua Price
Hillcrest Baptist Church Hanover Will Buchanan
*New Life Powhatan Powhatan Joe Tanner
*The Root RVA-North Chesterfield Chesterfield Daimion Hurst
CENTRAL-WEST & SOUTHSIDE LOCATION PASTOR
Flat Creek Baptist Church Lynchburg Earnest Carey
Friendship Baptist Church Drakes Branch Robert Duffy
*Iglesia Nueva Visión Appomattox Ruben Gonzalez Solano
Mount Tabor Baptist Church Keeling Daniel Peters
Piney Grove Baptist Church Gretna Without a Pastor
Rockfish Valley Baptist Church Nellysford Adam Meredith
NORTH LOCATION PASTOR
*Agape Church Chantilly Satish “Moses” Duvvur
*Amanuel Ethiopian Evangelical Dumfries Berhanu Abebe
Blue Run Baptist Church Somerset Barry Higgins
*Capital Church Falls Church Luis Daniel Salazar
*Elim Baptist Church Fairfax Qiang (Johnny) Lin
*Iglesia Bautista de Springfield Springfield Abner Diaz
*Iglesia Bautista Hispana la Gracia Woodbridge Jose R Aguilera Mejias
Iglesia Biblica Bautista La Roca Rockville, MD Benito Miguel
Jerusalem Korean Baptist Church Fairfax Yong Hye Cho
*Life Transforming Christ Church Alexandria Kebede Bogale
*Michtam Christian Church Ashburn Jiuyang Zhu
*Mosaic Espanol Winchester Douglas Hernandez
NORTH (CONT.)
LOCATION PASTOR
Northern Virginia Chinese Baptist Church Fairfax Yong Liu
*Redeemer Bible Church Stafford Justin Woodruff
*The Way Gaithersburg, MD Stephen Brown
Virginia Korean Baptist Church Fairfax Station Sungwon Yang
Virginia New Life Annandale KilSoo Bae & Hoyal Chang
Washington Mongolian Church Arlington Pilnam Hwang
*Winchester Grace Church Winchester Kevin Mincey
* Woolee Baptist Church Falls Church Kyunghwa Kim.
*Word of God Church Reston Girum Kifle
SOUTHEAST LOCATION PASTOR
Black Creek Baptist Church Franklin Richard Inman
Carrow Baptist Church Virginia Beach Rex Gille y Hillcrest Baptist Church Suffolk Ricky Garza
*Iglesia Bautista Ciudad de Gracia Hampton Roads Newport News Carlos Llambes
*Mission Point Williamsburg Weston White
Risen Church Virginia Beach John Allen
*Rock City Church Chesapeake Louie Gibbs
*Shore Community Bible Fellowship Exmore Clarence Bailey
Washington Mongolian Church Arlington Pilnam Hwang
SOUTHWEST
LOCATION PASTOR
Church on the Way Weber City Tony Crisp
Grace Fellowship Baptist Church Hiwassee Jason Aker
Mt. Hebron Missionary Baptist Church Willis (Carroll County) Lester Harrell
*Risen Church Richlands Christopher Hess
VALLEY LOCATION PASTOR
*Hope Valley Church-Portuguese Christiansburg Rodrigo da Silva Ferreira
*Indicates New Church Plant
total partner churches
COOPERATIVE PARTNERSHIP
100 Years of Advancing the Great Commission
Matthew 28:18–20 is often called the Great Commission. Christ’s command to “make disciples of all nations” was never intended for one church alone. Since the days of the Apostle Paul, leaders have urged churches to work together—planting, strengthening, and mobilizing churches so that the Gospel is proclaimed to the ends of the earth.
On May 13 19 Southern Baptists launched a uni ed and strategic plan to do ust that. hat became known as the Cooperative Program (CP) is now 100 years old. At the SBC of Virginia (SBCV), we like to call it Cooperative Partnership—because together, our churches are able to send more missionaries, support more ministries, and make a greater impact than we could ever accomplish on our own.
Since the SBC of Virginia was founded in 1996, our churches have given nearly $226 million to fuel missions and ministry across Virginia, North America, and around the world. That’s an incredible testimony to the power of partnership and unity in Christ’s mission.
Immediate Impact
The rst time a church gives through the Cooperative Program no matter the si e o the congregation it has an instant global impact. From day one, your church is helping missionaries, planters, and ministries without having to build a strategy from scratch.
Mutual Support
nstead o missionaries leaving the eld to raise unds year after year this cooperative partnership provides a stable base so they can focus on their calling. Together, we sustain a greater missionary force.
Global and Local Strategy
From seminary classrooms to local church revitalization, from new church plants in Virginia to unreached peoples abroad—this strategy touches lives everywhere, with names, stories, and callings.
As we celebrate 100 years of CP, we thank God for the past and look with faith to the future. Together, through our Cooperative Partnership, you are not alone in advancing the Gospel.
Total gifts from SBC of Virginia Churches with 70% of total gifts forwarded to SBC Missions and Planting and 30%, or $5,711,246, used on the Virginia mission field.
$420,918
One hundred percent of this important offering goes to the mission field in Virginia and around the world. Vision Virginia is uniquely designed to support ministry opportunities, such as providing supplies to impoverished children in Appalachia. The program provides support to churches that are meeting physical needs through hunger funds, meeting physical and spiritual needs in times of natural disasters, and resources for church plants, and many other ministry opportunities (sbcv.org/visionvirginia).
2025 MINISTRY INVESTMENT PLAN REVENUES*
$10,300,000 Undesignated Cooperative Program Contributions
more
Ministry Investment plan
MINISTRY RECEIPTS
INVESTMENTS DISBURSEMENTS
Engagement & Mobilization
The proposed $10,800,000 Cooperative Ministry Investment Plan (MIP) for 2026 is $50,000 increase over
The SBC of Virginia is authorized to spend any funds
beyond the $10,800,000 MIP at the same percentages as adopted by the convention in the 2026 MIP.
Recommendation:
The Executive Board recommends to messengers in the 2025 Annual Homecoming that the Proposed 2026 Cooperative Program Ministry Investment Plan in the amount of $10,800,000.00 be adopted.
2025 Executive Board
SBC OF VIRGINIA OFFICERS
ROB POCHEK President First Baptist Charlottesville (Moved June 2025)
JAMES TAYLOR 1st Vice President Red Lane Powhatan
GREG BRINSON Executive Board Chairman London Bridge Virginia Beach
CHAD BRADY North Bedford, Bedford
RYAN BRICE Nansemond River, Suffolk
BOOTH 2nd Vice President
Staples Mill Road Glen Allen
Executive Director
DANIEL PALMER Secretary North Roanoke Roanoke
EDDIE URBINE Treasurer
BOARD MEMBERS
GREG BRINSON London Bridge, Virginia Beach
NIKY BROOKS Living Word, Forest
MARC BROOKS Gethsemane, Richlands
RALPH CANTRELL Grove Avenue, Richmond
JONATHAN CARPENTER Exmore, Exmore
STEVE CHROMY Mount Hermon, Danville
GENE CORNETT Bethany Place, North Chesterfield
JEFF DICKSON Salem, Manakin Sabot
JIM DRAKE Parkview, Bluefield
ROB EDWARDS New Bridge, Sandston
GWEN FITZGERALD Clifford, Amherst
DEREK FUTRELL Parkway, Moseley
ROB HAYNES First Baptist, Jonesville
MICHAEL HARRISON Community Fellowship, Collinsville
MICHAEL HOWARD Seaford, Seaford
ALLEN JAMES Cave Spring, Roanoke
TERRY KIM Impact Church, Chantilly
WILL LANGFORD Great Bridge, Virginia Beach
CHARLES MANEY Mt. Tirzah, Charlotte Courthouse
JAMIE MCCLANAHAN Wayne Hills, Staunton
JEFF MEYER First Baptist, Woodbridge
MELANIE NESTOR Fairmont, Boones Mill
RANDY NICELY Villa Heights, Roanoke
GIOVANNY ORTIZ Iglesia Biblica Bautista Emanuel, Leesburg
JONATHAN PARKER Jerusalem, Fairfax Station
ROB POCHEK First BC, Charlottesville
KAREN REASOR Kempsville, Virginia Beach
RHONDA ROBINSON Bethel, Yorktown
JIM
BRIAN AUTRY
So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace
and was being built up
.
And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied.
ACTS 9:31 (ESV)
SBCVirginia @sbcvirginia
Your prayers and gifts through the Cooperative Program and the Vision Virginia State Missions Offering enable and empower ministries around Virginia and the world.