The 108th Annual Session of the National Baptist Congress will be held in Dallas, Texas June 8-13, 2014
The National Baptist Congress is a traveling Christian educational institute designed for leaders and workers in churches and denominations throughout the nation. The National Baptist Congress was founded as an educational arm of the National Baptist Publishing Board (NBPB), now known as R.H. Boyd Publishing Corporation (RHBPC), for training church workers and leaders alike-to effectively utilize the various resources for Christian education and discipleship.
During this annual event, registrants are exposed to current trends in Christian education methodology, as well as strategies for effectively implementing the work of the Church. Congress traditionally begins on the second Sunday in June and continues for five days.
The first Congress was held in 1906, and was the brainchild of Reverend Richard Henry Boyd. He envisioned a training vehicle to promote the Sunday school and young people’s organizations within Black Baptist churches. Congress quickly became an anticipated event where church workers could learn, share, and fellowship with other Christian workers from across the nation.
Today’s Congress continues to target its offerings to the contemporary needs of the Church. Dr. T. B. Boyd III, president of RHBPC, was inspired to add an innovative dimension to the Congress structure- the Youth Congress. This division, held simultaneously with the Congress, trains and prepares youth for Christian leadership. The Youth Congress attracts children, youth, and young adults (ages 4-24), and provides a plethora of activities including a parade, dramas, a Drill Team competition, Dance Ministry, youth choir performances, an Oratorical Scholarship Contest, a talent show, and concerts featuring contemporary gospel/inspirational artists. In addition, there are a variety of courses and workshops designed to spiritually educate, motivate, and empower young people.
After more than a century, the Congress’ mission remains steadfast in training and equipping generations of pastors, ministers, teachers, missionaries, and other workers to fulfill the calling that God has placed on their lives. The National Baptist Congress remains committed to educating, training, and teaching church leaders and workers of all denominations, amplifying God’s truth through excellence in Christian education resources.
