Church Forward Leader David Manner Announces Retirement After 26 Years of Service

TOPEKA, Kan. – David W. Manner, Executive Director-Treasurer of Church Forward (formerly the Kansas-Nebraska Convention of Southern Baptists), announced his upcoming retirement, set to conclude at or before the organization’s annual meeting in October 2026. Manner’s departure marks the end of 26 years of service with Church Forward and a total of 39 years in ministry.

A Legacy of Service

Manner shared his decision with the Church Forward Executive Committee and Mission Board, explaining that it followed months of prayerful consideration with his wife, Karen. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve alongside gifted pastors, ministry leaders, and staff within the Southern Baptist Convention. Baptist Press reported on the announcement.

“For 26 years I have served on the staff of the Kansas-Nebraska Convention of Southern Baptists, including the last five years as your executive director-Treasurer,” Manner said. “Prior to that, I served for 13 years in one of our Kansas churches. So for the past 39 years, I have had the blessing of serving alongside some of the most gifted and giving pastors, ministry leaders and state convention staff in the Southern Baptist Convention.”

Extensive Regional Impact

Throughout his tenure, Manner has been a consistent presence across Kansas and Nebraska, dedicating himself to serving pastors and churches. His operate involved nearly 1 million miles of travel and approximately 1,000 overnight stays in hotels, demonstrating a commitment to hands-on engagement with church leaders throughout the region. National Today highlighted this extensive travel as a key characteristic of his leadership.

Looking Ahead

Manner indicated that his decision to retire reflects a belief in the importance of recognizing seasons of ministry and being sensitive to God’s guidance. He looks forward to spending more time with his family, including his wife, daughter, son-in-law, grandson, and soon-to-be-born granddaughter. He also plans to continue writing and serving in part-time ministry roles.

Expressing confidence in the future of Church Forward, Manner believes the organization is well-positioned to continue advancing the Gospel and supporting its churches. The Executive Committee and Mission Board will lead the search for his successor, focusing on a leader who can build upon the organization’s momentum in discipleship and leadership development.

About Church Forward

Church Forward, formerly known as the Kansas-Nebraska Convention of Southern Baptists, plays a vital role in providing resources and support to local churches in areas such as church planting, leadership development, and discipleship. The organization is adapting to demographic shifts and cultural changes while remaining focused on its core mission.