ABHMS invites submissions for poster presentations at 2026 Space for Grace & Spiritual Caregivers Conference

VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 09/17/2025)—The 2026 Spiritual Caregivers Conference Poster Subcommittee of American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS) is inviting chaplains, specialized ministers, pastoral counselors, and spiritual directors to submit proposals for poster presentations they wish to deliver at ABHMS’ 2026 Space for Grace & Spiritual Caregivers Conference, April 21-23, in Cleveland, Ohio. Applications to present are being accepted until 5 p.m. ET, November 21, 2025.

The Rev. Dr. Patricia Murphy, BCC, ecclesiastical endorser for the American Baptist Churches USA and a member of the poster subcommittee, describes these poster presentations as a wonderful opportunity for professionals involved in this special aspect of pastoral care to “showcase your expertise and knowledge, while inspiring colleagues, encouraging thoughtful discussions, and educating on key issues within institutional chaplaincy.”

Poster presentations can include initiatives, peer-reviewed literature, research, or insights from daily experiences as spiritual caregivers that highlight innovative models of ministry. Additionally, proposals that incorporate the 2026 conference theme, “Storytelling: Discovering Its Power for Faith Leaders Today,” will be given favorable consideration during the selection process.

The posters of selected presenters will be displayed prominently during the three-day national gathering. In addition, there will be special sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday, April 21 and 22, when presenters can interact directly with conferees.

  • The deadline for proposal submission is 5 p.m. ET Friday, November 21, 2025.
  • Two live sessions are scheduled for presentations.
  • Proposals must be submitted electronically using this online form.

Please direct any questions about this poster presentation opportunity to Patricia Murphy at patricia.murphy@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.