A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of attending Converge Together. It was the first time in a long time that our entire movement gathered in one place.
There were so many moments that made the week special. I loved experiencing the conference with my family. I loved reconnecting with friends and colleagues from across the country. I especially loved seeing the nearly 70 people from Converge Northeast who made the trip! It was encouraging to watch pastors, church leaders, global workers and ministry partners from our region connect with one another and build new relationships with leaders from across the Converge family.
The days were long—twelve hours was pretty standard—and I should have been exhausted. Physically, I was. But spiritually, emotionally, and relationally, my cup was overflowing.
At first, I thought maybe it’s just because I’m an extrovert! While that’s certainly true, I realized there was something much deeper happening.
On the final day, Converge President John Jenkins shared why he loves Converge. He said it’s because when we gather together, it looks like what heaven looks like.
The moment he said those words, everything clicked. That’s exactly what I had been experiencing all week.
People from every background, every ethnicity, every generation, every size of church, and every corner of the country (and the world!) were united around one purpose: making disciples, starting churches, strengthening leaders, and bringing the hope of Jesus to the world. We weren’t celebrating our differences or pretending they didn’t exist. We were celebrating the unity we have in Christ.
President Jenkins shared Psalm 133:1: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”
That verse captures what I experienced at Converge Together. It also describes what I love most about Converge Northeast.
Whenever we gather as a region—whether for a pastors’ gathering, a church planting event, or our annual Advance Conference—I experience that same sense of joy. Churches from New Jersey to Maine coming together. Different cultures, different ministry contexts, different worship styles, and different stories are all united by the gospel and our shared mission. It’s one of my favorite parts of serving this region.
That’s why I can’t wait for Advance 2026.
Advance isn’t simply another conference to put on your calendar. It’s an opportunity to worship together, learn together, encourage one another, and be reminded that none of us are serving alone. Every year I leave refreshed, encouraged, and grateful to belong to a family of churches that truly reflects the beautiful diversity of Christ’s Kingdom.
Registration is now open, and I hope you’ll make plans to join us. I genuinely believe you won’t want to miss it. Come experience the encouragement, fellowship, and unity that make Converge Northeast so special. Together, we’ll get another glimpse of what heaven looks like—and we’ll be reminded why God has called us to serve together until that day comes.