Louisiana United Methodist Church Announces 2026 Events & Gatherings

As 2026 begins, the Louisiana Conference of The United Methodist Church has announced a calendar filled with meaningful events for clergy, lay leaders, youth, and families. These gatherings offer opportunities for spiritual growth, connection, and service across the state.

Clergy Connection: Coffee with the Bishop

The Louisiana Conference will host two “clergy Coffee with the Bishop” events in January. These informal gatherings provide a space for open conversation, encouragement, and fellowship with Bishop Delores J.williamston.

• January 5, 10:00 a.m.: St. Paul’s Monroe, 1901 Lexington Monroe, LA, 71201
• January 8, 10:00 a.m.: First UMC, Alexandria, 2727 Jackson St, Alexandria, LA 71301

Both events are open too all clergy of the Louisiana Conference.

Spiritual Retreat for Youth: The Happening

From January 16-18, the Louisiana United Methodist Happening will take place at the Wesley Center. This three-day weekend retreat is designed for 9th-12th grade youth and adult youth ministry leaders, offering a refreshing spiritual experience led by teenagers for teenagers.learn More

Lay Servant Ministries Training

On January 31,the Conference Lay Servant Ministries and the Board of Laity will offer a Winter Lay Servant Ministries Training in Monroe. Pat Wiersma will lead an introductory course focused on understanding and utilizing spiritual gifts and developing future leaders. Learn More

Preparing for Retirement: Pre-Retirement Seminar

A Pre-Retirement Seminar will be held at the Wesley Center on February 2. This full-day event is designed for clergy and spouses planning to retire within the next 1-5 years, covering topics such as Wespath Benefits, Conference Retiree Health Benefits, and the Compass Plan. All are welcome to attend. Learn More

Exploring Wesleyan heritage: Vile-tality Workshop

On February 28, Ashley Boggan will lead a “Vile-tality Workshop” in Woodworth, exploring her book, Wesleyan Vile-tality. The workshop will delve into the historical roots of Methodism and the importance of embracing a bold and unconventional faith. Learn More

Youth Engagement: Youth Day with the Bishop

Youth Day with the Bishop will be held on March 28 at the Wesley Center from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This event is open to all youth across the Louisiana Conference, providing a space for spiritual growth, connection, and conversation with Bishop Delores J. Williamston. Learn More

Addressing contemporary Issues: Rejecting christian nationalism Faithfully Webinar

The Louisiana Conference will host a clergy-only webinar, “Rejecting Christian Nationalism Faithfully,” focused on a book study of Building Beloved Community: The Courage to Love in the Face of Tyranny. Facilitated by Bishop Williamston and featuring expert Karrie Gaspard-Hogewood, this webinar will explore the impact of Christian nationalism on church and society. Learn More

Annual Conference & Calling of the Orders

Mark your calendars for two key events later in the year:

• June 9-12: 2026 Louisiana Annual Conference at the Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center, with the theme of “JOY.” Learn More
• October 6-8: Calling of the Orders & Fellowship at the Wesley Center in Woodworth, Louisiana. This event is for members of the Order of Deacons, the Order of Elders, and the Fellowship of Local Pastors & Associate Members. Learn More

The Louisiana Conference encourages all members to stay informed about these and future events through email updates and the conference website.