Every four years, something extraordinary happens in the International Pentecostal Holiness Church. Ministers, delegates, and attendees from around the world gather under one roof for General Conference—our denomination’s most significant event. But if you’ve never been, you might wonder: What makes it so important? Why should I consider attending?
The 30th General Conference, meeting July 15-17, 2026, in Mobile, Alabama, isn’t just another church meeting. It’s where we come together for three essential purposes that shape our identity and fuel our mission.
1. We Worship Together
There’s something powerful about gathering with thousands of fellow believers to lift our voices in praise. General Conference worship services create moments you simply can’t experience in your local congregation—not because your church isn’t wonderful, but because there’s a unique anointing when the body comes together across geographic and cultural boundaries.
This year, we’ll be inspired by messages from Rev. Steve DeNeff and Mark L. Williams. We look for these servants of God to challenge us, encourage us, and point us toward deeper faithfulness. Whether you’re wrestling with ministry burnout, seeking fresh vision, or simply hungry for God’s presence, General Conference worship creates space for divine encounter.
2. We Connect with One Another
Ministry can be isolating. Pastors and church leaders often serve in small communities or face challenges that feel unique to their context. General Conference breaks that isolation by bringing together multiple congregations’ worth of wisdom, experience, and friendship.
The conversations in hallways between sessions, the meals shared with colleagues from across the country, the training workshops where you discover someone else has wrestled with the exact same issue you’re facing—these connections sustain us through the difficult work of discipling and being discipled. They remind us that we’re not alone, that we’re part of something bigger than ourselves, and that the challenges we face are shared by brothers and sisters who genuinely want to help.
Many lifelong friendships and ministry partnerships have been born at General Conference. Don’t underestimate the value of looking across a crowded room and seeing yourself as part of a tribe.
3. We Do the Work That Shapes Our Future
General Conference is inspirational, yes, but it’s also foundational to our denominational identity and to the purposeful work that goes on in local churches. This is where we elect leadership, adopt policies, and make decisions that will guide the IPHC as a movement for the next four years. If you’re eligible to vote as a minister or certified lay delegate, your participation isn’t optional; it’s essential.
The theme ‘Arise for Mission’ captures this responsibility perfectly. We’re not gathering just to celebrate the past or maintain the status quo. We’re seeking God’s direction for how IPHC should respond to a rapidly changing world while remaining faithful to our calling. Your voice, your vote, your perspective—they all matter.
Even if you’re not a voting delegate, attending General Conference helps you understand the heart behind denominational decisions and gives you ownership of our shared mission. When you return to your local church, you won’t just know what was decided; you’ll understand why decisions were made, and you’ll be equipped to help your congregation embrace it.
Three Ways to Engage with General Conference 2026
PRAY
Begin praying now for the 30th General Conference. Pray for wisdom for our leaders, unity among delegates, open hearts among attendees, and clear direction from the Holy Spirit. Consider organizing a prayer team in your local church dedicated to interceding for this gathering.
REGISTER
Don’t wait—early bird registration rates are available through June 15, 2026. Visit IPHC.org/generalconference to register today.
MOBILIZE
If you’re a leader, make plans now to attend and encourage others from your congregation to join you. Consider making General Conference part of a family trip! Mobile offers excellent attractions for all ages, and combining spiritual renewal with family time can be transformative.
The 30th General Conference is your opportunity to be part of something significant. Whether you come primarily for worship, connections, or to contribute to the work that shapes our future, your presence matters. We’ll see you in Mobile!
LEARN MORE AND REGISTER @ IPHC.ORG/GENERALCONFERENCE