ABHMS launches registration for 2026 Space for Grace & Spiritual Caregivers Conference
Faith leaders invited to Cleveland to explore storytelling’s power to liberate, connect, and transform
VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 11/14/2025)—Registration is now open for the 2026 Space for Grace & Spiritual Caregivers Conference, the signature national gathering of American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS). The event, themed “Storytelling: Discovering Its Power for Faith Leaders Today,” will take place April 21–23 in downtown Cleveland, Ohio.
Since its inception in 2015, Space for Grace has provided faith leaders across the United States and Puerto Rico a valuable opportunity to step away from daily responsibilities and demands and find rest, learning, and renewal in a welcoming and inclusive setting. Now in its fifth edition, this biennial event will convene hundreds of pastors, chaplains, educators, counselors, ministry innovators, seminary students, and faith-based nonprofit leaders for worship, teaching, and activities designed to inspire hope and strengthen ministries.
Inspired by II Corinthians 3:2–3 (NRSVue)—“You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by all… not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God”—the conference theme encourages participants to explore how storytelling rooted in the Gospel can liberate, build connections across cultures and generations, and transform both the storyteller and the listener. Plenaries, workshops, and interactive learning experiences will deepen this exploration, as the diverse voices and traditions present at the conference will demonstrate the spiritual and formative power of storytelling, especially during challenging times.
“Throughout history, God’s people have been storytellers,” said Dr. Jeffrey Haggray, executive director of ABHMS and CEO of Judson Press. “The parables of Jesus, the narratives of Scripture, and the testimonies of believers across generations reveal God’s truth and grace.”
The 2026 gathering continues ABHMS’ dedication to creating a “space for grace” that respects the diversity of the Body of Christ and promotes spiritual and vocational renewal. Attendees will enjoy abundant fellowship during transformative worship and collaborative learning over three days. There will also be opportunities for quiet prayer and reflection throughout the event.
“Space for Grace is more than a conference,” Haggray added. “It’s an encounter with God’s Spirit and with one another. It is a time to breathe deeply, share our stories, and return to ministry refreshed and renewed.”
A key highlight of the upcoming Space for Grace is the return of Innovators Hall, where registered attendees can share personal stories live onstage. Those interested in showcasing their storytelling passion in their work and witness can apply by submitting an online form by December 8, 2025.
The conference will also feature the unveiling of a second Space for Grace book from Judson Press, expected to be published in late 2026 or early 2027. Similar to “Engaging Intergenerational Faith: Creating Space for Grace,” which celebrated the work of speakers and presenters at the 2024 Space for Grace, the new volume will include essays based on the plenaries and learning experiences that will comprise the 2026 event.
Why Attend
- Renew Your Spirit. Step away from daily ministry demands and rediscover your own story in God’s larger narrative.
- Learn the Art of Storytelling. Gain tools to bring stories to life in preaching, pastoral care, and community leadership.
- Connect with a Caring Community. Join peers and colleagues who understand the joys and challenges of faith-based work.
- Be Inspired by Dynamic Voices. Hear from nationally recognized speakers and storytellers whose ministries embody faith in action.
- Experience Spiritual and Practical Growth. Leave equipped with new insights and renewed energy for your calling.
Conference registration includes all plenaries, workshops, and worship services. The rate for all three days is $395, with a daily rate of $165. For more information and to register, visit abhms.org/spaceforgrace. Registration closes April 14, 2026.
Questions may be directed to space4grace@abhms.org.
American Baptist Home Mission Societies partners with American Baptists to promote Christian faith, cultivate Christ-centered leaders and disciples, and bring healing and transformation to communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.
American Baptist Churches USA is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with approximately 5,000 congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.
